March 30, 2017

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Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, West Vision (Cayo) and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials

The San Pedro Sun

Nearly 1K lionfish caught at Caye Caulker’s 2nd annual derby
Caye Caulker’s second annual Lionfish Derby put a dent in the population of Belize Barrier Reef’s most damaging invasive species. On Saturday, March 25th, participants brought in large amounts of the voracious predator, to be tallied and even cooked for sampling, at the popular Barrier Reef Sports Bar and Grill. This year saw almost double the amount caught last year, as a whopping 964 lionfish were removed from the local waters by the nine teams that signed up for the challenge. Among the participants was San Pedro’s Sagebrush Dive Team, who once again did great in the competition. The tournament included the following categories: Most Lionfish caught Scuba Diving, Most Lionfish caught Free Diving, Largest and Smallest Lionfish.

Blue Water Grill makes generous donations in March
Through their monthly donation effort, Blue Water Grill (BWG), along with their sister businesses, The Phoenix and Wine De Vine, raises funds to assist the San Pedro community in many great ways. Thanks to the generosity of donors, March saw San Pedro High School (SPHS) receiving new laptops, Oceana in Belize receiving a sizeable check, and Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II receiving their long-awaited ultrasound machine. SPHS Teacher Paul Kelly said that the new laptops will definitely benefit the school, especially for students enrolled in the San Pedro Adult Continuing Education (SPACE) program. “With over 900 students at SPHS, San Pedro Junior College, and SPACE, these computers will also really become handy for all students. However, I noticed that the majority of the SPACE students work in the construction field. Instead of them just working in that industry as a laborer, I believe these students can become more than that. They could become more acquainted with technology and be the mastermind behind the construction,” said Kelly.

San Pedro High School holds successful Science Fair
San Pedro High School (SPHS) students showcased their knowledge during their annual science fair on Friday, March 24th. The Angel Nuñez Auditorium was filled with 38 project booths that focused on this year’s theme: “Knowledge is Power”. The fair opened with Master of Ceremonies Francisco Quiroz establishing protocol and welcoming everyone. After an opening prayer from Pastor Clive Welsh, the gathering National Anthem and school song. SPHS Principal Emil Vasquez then gave a brief welcome address, while Science Teacher Ricardo Sedacy introduced this years’ judges: Jason Lanza, Jose Acosta, Melina Chan, Shane Sebastian, and Calbert O’Brian. With the fair officially opened, judges, teachers, parents, and visitors came to view the various science projects from 10AM to 2PM. The students eagerly explained their hypotheses, science experiments, observations, research and conclusions. The groups demonstrated creativity, presenting various projects ranging from chemistry, engineering, solar science, physics, and biology. The long periods of investigating, planning, and experimenting certainly paid off, as the judges had a difficult task choosing the winners.

Ambergris Today

Belize Lionfish Hunting Best Marine Experience According To Food And Travel Mexico
The lion fish is considered the second greatest threat to the coral reef and the Caribbean's ecological balance due to its voracious appetite and the lack of natural predators. In order to protect the marine ecosystem and their own livelihoods, fishermen and dive professionals in Belize began hunting lionfish in 2002. Now lionfish expeditions have become increasingly popular throughout the country, in an effort to save the reef, and also because it has become a delicacy. The lionfish meat is tasty and has gained popularity in many local restaurants in Belize, This Caribbean delicacy is also shipped commercially from Belize to the United States. as the demand is growing in the U.S market. Currently many high-end restaurants in New York City, Las Vegas, Chicago, and Houston are serving lionfish on their menus.

Johnny Depp Will Play John McAfee In Upcoming Biopic Movie
Oh no, not again! First Showtime released the documentary ‘Gringo: The Dangerous Live of John McAfee” about his bizarre and scandalous life of tech millionaire John McAfee in Belize. Now it has been announced that A-list celebrity Johnny Depp will play the role of McAfee in a new and upcoming biopic. I guess that Belize has had enough of John McAfee and we don’t need to be reminded of all the mess he made and left behind, but once again there is another movie about him and Belize coming out. This time, According to Deadline, the Pirates Of The Caribbean Star will play McAfee "as he takes a... magazine writer on a darkly comic Apocalypse Now-like tour at his Belize compound, a trip filled with paranoia, machine guns, sex and murder”.

Drug Plane Found In Northern Belize
On Monday 27th March 2017, based upon information received from authorities in Guatemalan, Civil Aviation along with the Anti-Narcotics Unit visited an area in Northern Belize. There they observed a white with burgundy and sliver trim Piper PA-23-250 aircraft with tail number N6769Y.

Misc Belizean Sources

February 2017 External Trade & Consumer Price Index & 2016 4th Quarter GDP Estimates
The latest figures on consumer prices released by the Statistical Institute of Belize show that, on average, prices for goods and services regularly purchased by households in Belize were 2.3 percent higher during the month of February 2017 than they were in February of 2016. The All-Items consumer price index stood at 105.1 for the month, an increase from 102.7 during the same period last year (see Figure 1). Higher prices were recorded across the three largest categories, namely ‘Transport’, ‘Food and Non-alcoholic Beverages’ and ‘Housing, Water, Electricity Gas and other Fuels’, which together account for almost two thirds of all household purchases.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Heads Delegation to Sixteenth Summit of Tuxtla Mechanism in Costa Rica
A delegation headed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Hon Wilfred Elrington, participated in the XVI Summit of the Tuxtla Mechanism for Dialogue and Cooperation held on March 29th, 2017 in San Jose, Costa Rica. The Political Declaration adopted by the Heads of Government and their representatives reaffirmed the importance of this regional space for dialogue and cooperation between the countries of Central America, the Dominican Republic, Colombia and Mexico.

Countrywide tour with members of Water Boards
The Honorable Hugo Patt, Minister of Rural Development, along with his staff are conducting a countrywide tour with all members of the Water Boards to discuss the expectations, roles and responsibilities of each Board.

PACT Amendment Bill to be Presented to Governor General for Assent
In the sitting of the House of Representatives on Friday, March 24, 2017, the House passed the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (Amendment) Act, 2017 to vary the rate of the conservation fee collected from every non-Belizean departing from any air border; to apportion such fees between the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) and the Consolidated Revenue Fund. Pursuant to Section 80(1) of the Constitution of Belize, a “money Bill means a public Bill, which in the opinion of the Speaker, contains only provisions dealing with all or any of the following matters, namely, the imposition, repeal, remission, altercation or regulation of taxation; …”

Belize Protectors Association at the Baker to Vegas Challenge
We take this time to congratulate the Belize Protectors Association Team who competed and placed 3rd in the Baker to Vegas Challenge in Las Vegas this past weekend. Congratulations and job well done!

5-A-Side Football Tourney, Male & Female
5-A-SIDE Fanatics here you go! Set up your teams! Mark your calendars! IT'S ON!

Congrats Belize Protectors
On behalf of the Belize Protectors, Law Enforcement Officer, we are pleased to share our team competed on Saturday 25th March with approximately 300 teams and a total of 25 athletes per team for the Baker2Vegas 120 miles relay competition. Our officers placed an overall impressive 3rd place compared to 6th place overall last year! Congratulations Team Belize, you made us proud!

Fun Run 2017
Its a family event and its happening this Saturday. Join the fun for a good cause at the different locations country wide. Special Olympics Belize is having a fun run! Come out to show support or purchase a t-shirt for a child.

Letter: A response to the legal opinion on the Guatemalan claim to Belize
Attorney David Fine and editor Evan X Hyde, as a Belizean I commend you for writing this extremely powerful legal opinion on Belizean rights to our country. Also, Mr Hyde for publishing this needed article in his Amandala newspaper to educate our people on this ongoing never ending false claim Guatemala has been stating for centuries over our nation Belize. I would like to see more Belizean legal scholars express their legal opinions on this issue like you but such is not the case. This article gives many Belizeans like myself the confirmation that, without any doubt, Belize belongs to Belizeans. However, there are many Belizeans who are asking this question: if we are so convinced that this is true, then why go to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to reaffirm this fact?

Ocean Academy Presents: 2nd Annual Ubuntu Event
Tuesday April 4th, 10am-3pm, Palapa Gardens, Caye Caulker

Belize Amateur Golf Association "Hopkins Pirate Scramble"
One day only, this Saturday, April 1, at Roaring River Golf Course! Open to everyone, although you must be able to play some golf. Find a partner (or let us know and we can pair you with another player) and play in this fun event with lots of Prizes. Victor Ludorum Player of the Year Points available for our members. $60 Members, $75 Non Members, includes Green Fee and lunch after golfing. Some people have not heard of a pirate scramble before this tournament. The details of the format are as follow: Teams 2-player teams in foursome groupings. A 3 person team may be formed in the event of uneven numbers. Tee shots - Must use the tee shot of each team member equally, i.e. 8 each in 2 person team or 5 each in 3 person team

"Belize Art Shop:" Franzwah Estrada
In this fourth feature on the "Belize Art Shop" featuring the hard hitting Belizean Photo Journalist, Franzwah Estrada, who has been no stranger in the Los Angeles Belizean Community where he lives and work as an artist in photography and film, we here at Belizean Legends want to honor this brother for his many years of incredible work and contribution to the development of the Los Angeles Belizean Community. Estrada's work stems extensively across a wide spectrum of culture, politics, and entertainment, and can be seen more vividly through the awesome photo essay here where he captured the passionate moments of mostly Belizean women in protest against the insidious Guatemalan claim of Belize on May 5, 2016 at the Guatemalan Consulate on Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles, California. A true Belizean nationalist in his photography and artistic revolution, and also as a Garifuna artist and spokesman, Estrada's work takes no prisoners as the outstanding artist is known for his outspoken posture in depicting the truth about the images he presents and his defense of his unorthodox style of "shoot what you see".

Corozal Junior College EXPO and Trade Show 2017
See you on Friday, March 31st, 2017 for our annual expo.

The International Festival of Culture
May 5th, 6th & 7th 2017, Centennial Park, Benque Viejo Del Carmen.

Channel 7

Mystery Man Bart Middleton Appears
Last week, we showed you how the Senate Select Committee finally learned who the mysterious "Mr. Middleton" is. He's Barton Middleton, a private citizen, businessman, and allegedly, a "fixer", well-known in certain circles. After the Senate Committee began digging into the 8 stolen visas of November 2012, his name was called repeatedly as the moving hand in the theft of 6 of those visas. The most explosive testimony against Middleton came from UDP insider Patrick Tillett. Tillett went before the Senate saying that he briefly ran a visa procurement service for Chinese Nationals who wanted to visit Belize. He said that he was contracted to get 6 visas for some "Chinese clients", and he was paid $6,000 each, to a total sum of $36,000.

Middleton Says His Life Was Threatened
So, as you saw, from early on, Middleton established himself as an untrustworthy witness. That trend continued into the afternoon session, with Middleton giving the same answers as he did in the morning. It was not until Business Senator Mark Lizarraga asked him an usual question that things got more interesting. The Senator asked him if he had been threatened so that he would not cooperate. Quite surprisingly, he said that, indeed, he had been. Here's that moment of the hearing for you to decide whether he's telling the truth or not: Hon. Mark Lizarraga - Senator, Business Sector: "I need to ask you this question and I need for you to think seriously about it before you answer it. Have you been threatened Mr Middleton by anybody?" Barton Middleton - Implicated in Visa Theft: "No sir."

GOB Unfazed By Senate Rejection Of PACT Bill, Will Push On
Yesterday we told you about the Senate's landmark vote to reject a money bill that had already been passed by the House of Representatives. Independent and opposition senators thought that by voting down the bill, it would be delayed by one month. But today the Government said that's a misguided interpretation of the powers afforded to the Senate in the Constitution. Government issued a press release today stressing that the Senate has no influence over the assent of a money bill after it has been passed by the House. The press release also states that there will be no delay in the bill's assent, despite the Senate's reservations. We spoke to Attorney General, Mike Peyrefitte, who laid out the law, according to government...

Drug Plane Landing Area Still A Mystery
Police have released the details of the suspected drug plane we told you about last night. They confirmed that the Civil Aviation Department along with the Anti-Narcotics Unit received information from Guatemalan authorities which led them to a Piper Aztec which had landed in an area in Northern Belize. The report does not specify where in Northern Belize, but these planes are known to land on sugar roads. Civil Aviation certified it as air worthy, and they flew it to the PGIA - where it was parked when we visited yesterday. The police say, quote, "The Anti-Narcotics Unit along with civil aviation is currently investigating the circumstance of the plane being in Belize."

What the Guat Consultant Says
Last night, we told you about a late breaking story of a leaked document from the Guatemalan Foreign Affairs Ministry, which indicates that the Government of Guatemala wants to include the Sarstoon in one of their official maps. We've been provided with the document from Breaking Belize News, and we've since translated it. It's actually a progress report from a consultant, who signed a contract with the Guatemalan Foreign Affairs Ministry back in January. the consultant is a former diplomat and his contract will last up until the end of this year. This report covered his work from the period of January 17 up until January 31, 2017. This consultant notes that he had been participating activities in Guatemala for that country's push toward the International Court of Justice. That included meetings with the Guatemalan Government's Sovereignty and Dominion Unit, the Guatemalan Foreign Minister, and the country's Supreme Electoral Tribunal.

When Conchs Go To Court
We have reported on countless illegal fisheries busts – including the over 3,000 undersized conch we told you about last night. There has also been a number of reports on forestry offenses especially illegal logging. But there is more to these cases than just the initial confiscations – there are the charges, fines and more importantly, the court proceedings. And today at a Magistrate's information session held at the Biltmore, the coordinators discussed the importance of collaboration between the magistrates and both the fisheries and forestry departments. Courtney Weatherburne has more details. We apologize for that break in transmission- due to a system failure. We resume with our story on the magistrate's training. For the first quarter, the fisheries department has seized about 5,000 individual undersized conch. That number includes the 3, 300 that were confiscated last Friday. The persons caught with illegal catch are charged, fined and penalized. The fines range from $100 to $500. But according to Fisheries Officer Mauro Gongora, those fines aren't stiff enough.

SIB Confirms GDP Contraction For Fourth Quarter
It's no secret that Belize's economy is in recession and today the Statistical Institute of Belize confirmed that Belize's Gross Domestic Product contracted again in the last three months of 2016. It's the first time since 2011 that the fourth quarter has seen a contraction in economic growth. Some say it's also the first time in decades that Belize has experienced four successive quarters of economic contraction. Today the SIB explained why the GDP is down again: Angelita Campbell - Statistician II, SIB: "Belize produced goods and services totalling 666.7 million dollars for the period October to December 2016. What that indicates a decrease of 1.2% or roughly 7.9 million dollars in production. This graft shows the fluctuation in terms of percent value. In 2012 we had an increase of roughly 2.9 percent then in 2013 fourth quarter as had Banana showing a decrease of 30 percent and that was mainly due to the effect of Hurricane Earl and the exit of a major banana farm."

Inflation Soared In Feb Due To Travel Costs
And while beer production is down, inflation is up. That means goods and services regularly purchased by households in Belize cost 2.3 percent more during the month of February 2017 than in February of 2016. As the SIB statistician explained, the increase was driven mainly by rising transport costs: Jacqueline Sabal - Statistician II, SIB: "There's a very large increase in transport. In February 2017 compared to February 2016. Food prices did decrease as you can see but not enough to bring down the all items index. Transport by air played a major role in the movement of the transport index. Across all municipalities everyone recorded an increase in consumer prices. Belmopan recorded the highest inflation rate at 3.5 percent with Dangriga not too far behind at 3.3 percent."

Exports and Imports Sag
And Belize's external trade profile was also not encouraging. Here's the breakdown: Stephanie Vasquez - Statistician, SIB: "The largest changes in imports for the period were observed in the following categories. The machinery and transport equipment category which accounted for 58 million dollars of Belize's import in January to February 2017 fell by 13 million dollars as Belize imported less telecommunication equipment, 4 cylinder vehicles and agricultural equipment than it did in January to February 2016. Good destined for export processing zones which amounted to 4 million dollars for the first 2 months of this year dropped by 6 million when compared to the same period of last year going to reduced imports of gaming machines, shrimp feed and containers.

USAID Support for Crime Legislation
On Monday national security representatives from the Eastern and Southern Caribbean arrived in Belize to begin a three day study tour. The tour, which is funded by The United States Agency for International Development, will provide the regional delegates with important knowledge and strategies for crime prevention. The project is designed to reduce the main causes of youth related crime through better developed legislation. Here is the Minister of State for Home Affairs, Elodio Aragon, with more on the event... Hon. Elodio Aragon Jr. - Minister of State, Home Affairs: "It is indeed a gratifying feeling to see that Belize was chosen as the country for this technical exchange and as the vanguard in this CariSecure project aim towards strengthening evidence based decision making for citizen security in the Caribbean.

City Council Puts Order To Fire Recovery Effort
The 51 persons spread across 16 families who were dislocated in last week Friday's Majestic Alley Fire continues to get help. Today the City Council coordinated a joint relief effort with the Red Cross, The Department of Human Services, CEMO and private sponsors to give the fire victims a comprehensive care package. Councillor Phillip Willoughby told us more. Folks, again, We apologize - we're trying to stabilize that system failure, please bear with us: Again we pick up our story about the city council's effort to assist fire victims: Phillip Willoughby - City Councillor: "Well today we finalise some of the relief efforts via several agencies that donate to the fire victims from the Pink's alley fire. Red Cross donated the box and the labelling on the side, pots and pans and the lights to be utilised on the stoves that were donated via NEMO courtesy Minister Castro and his ministry, they got the cook tops and the gas tanks.

BEL and Hand In Hand Come Through, Boots Doesn't
And in another fire story, today a family of 6 that lost their home in a fire over a year ago has a new place to live thanks to BEL and Hand in Hand Ministries. The house came complete with electrical and plumbing systems already installed. Shelly Flowers, the mother of the family, talked to us about how grateful she was for the donation, and also told us about her dissatisfaction with how long it took for her to get one... We reached out to Boots Martinez for a comment earlier today and he reminded us that Flowers actually lives in the Queen Square, which means that her area rep. is actually Prime Minister Dean Barrow. Despite this, Martinez told us that he already provided a house to the family; the one directly behind the new building, where Flowers' sister, with whom she has been living for the past year, currently resides.

How The Protectors Did It
Yesterday we told you about the triumphant return of the Belize Protectors, who placed third place in the Baker to Vegas challenge last weekend. The team is made up of law enforcement personnel, who have been training for the 120 mile race since July. They placed third over almost 300 other teams from around the world. We spoke to the team about their accomplishment earlier today... The Belize Protector's rise through the ranks in almost record break. In only two years since first entering the competition, the team has moved up almost 270 ranks, and is considered a major contender for first place next year.

Channel 5

Barton Middleton, Before Senate Committee, Claims He Fears for His Life
The sole witness present at today’s public hearing of the Senate Special Select Committee on Immigration was Barton Middleton. His appearance is the culmination of long weeks of interrogation of [...]

Alleged Immigration “Agent” Can’t Say Why He is Being Framed
Before that big reveal, Middleton displayed a severe case of amnesia through much of this morning’s testimony, apparently unable to recall much of anything that happened to him in the [...]

Barton Middleton Denies Involvement in Visa Foil Scandal
Though he may be forgetful of events, Barton Middleton is well aware of why he was called to Belmopan today. No less than four persons – Immigration Officers Mark Tench, [...]

Is Brain Tumour to Blame for “Mr. Middleton’s” Forgetfulness?
In the course of his testimony, Middleton claimed to have gone to surgery at the Corozal Hospital for a tumour growing at the base of his brain. When we checked [...]

Middleton Tells Off Senate Committee over Jurisdiction
Barton Middleton, if not a hostile witness, was certainly a reluctant one. He spent much of his testimony denying meeting or closely knowing the likes of Mark Tench and Patrick [...]

Gov’t Rushes PACT Bill to G.G. Despite Senate’s Disapproval
On Monday, the Senate defeated the PACT Amendment Bill in a significant first for the upper house, when a majority of parliamentarians voted against the proposed law.  The government is [...]

Business Senator Calls for Legal Review Due to “Uncharted Waters”
There may be basis for the Government’s actions in the Constitution, but does that make it right? Senator for the Business Community Mark Lizarraga told News Five this afternoon in [...]

Drug Plane Recovered in Northern Belize
A small aircraft remains parked at the apron of the Philip Goldson International Airport after it was transported from northern Belize. The white with burgundy and sliver trim Piper PA-23-250 [...]

SIB Reports: Exports Down in Fourth Quarter; Citrus Boom Not Felt Yet
The Statistical Institute of Belize confirms today that exports are significantly down. In the case of citrus which once placed as the number one export that industry has plummeted to [...]

Fuel Goads Inflation Forward
Fuel prices, as motorists would know, have shot up considerably, jumping almost twenty percent during February 2017.  The most notable increase was in the cost of diesel fuel which went [...]

P.U.P. Calls for Renewed Fight on Crime; Hits G.O.B. on Budget Cuts
The People’s United Party says it is gravely concerned by the government’s seemingly flippant inattention to the spiralling crime.  Earlier today, the P.U.P. issued a release noting that the government [...]

Business Senator Disappointed by Budget: G.O.B., Public Service Can Do Better
There was a possibility, with an odd number of Senators now seated and any tie-breaker removed from President Lee Mark Chang except in specific circumstances, that the General Revenue and [...]

Emergency Management Hands Out Supplies to Majestic Fire Victims
NEMO, CEMO and other partners handed over supplies to families who lost their homes and belongings in the Majestic Alley last Friday. The families have been receiving assistance since the [...]

New House for 2016 Fire Victim
Belize Electricity Limited and Hand in Hand Ministries partnered to build a house for a deserving family in Belize City.  Shirley Flowers, a single mother off Boots Crescent in south [...]

Ministry of Health Wants More Talk About Depression
The theme of next week’s World Health Day observance is “Depression – Let’s Talk.” It’s easier said than done, considering how many suffer from a depressive state and keep it [...]

What Not to Do When Reporting Suicides
As recently as the early 2000’s, it was still considered a crime in Belize to attempt to kill yourself. Those who have succeeded seem to be tainted in the eyes [...]

Ministry of Education Plans for ‘Open School’
Today, the Ministry of Education and the Commonwealth Of Learning launched a policy management open school workshop. The purpose of the three-day session is to enable administrators and managers to [...]

Open School Program to be Expanded in Belize
The concept of open schooling actually began at Gwen Lizarraga High School Even Division back in 2009. The workshop, however, will ensure that administrators of the evening division and ITVETs [...]

Englishman Dan Thompson “Runs the World” for Cancer Research
Dan Thompson, a cancer research advocate, has embarked on a run around the world for a good cause. Thompson visited Belize on Tuesday to run a leg of his journey [...]

CTV3

Barton Middleton Fears For His Life
The Senate Select Committee hearings which have been investigating serious allegations of wrong-doing and irregularities within the Immigration Department via its public hearings took a very strange and serious turn today when one of the individuals involved in one of the scandals, the much spoken about “Mr. Middleton”, testified before the Committee and claimed that he is fearful for his life; and therefore, would not be able to provide information. The statement left the Committee and members of the media on the gallery shocked, to say the least, and also triggered an early end to what was one of the least productive hearings since the Committee commenced in November last year. We say least productive because “Mr. Middleton”, whose name is actually Barton Middleton, and who has been named in multiple hearings as the privately-hired Immigration agent who traded visas that were deemed stolen, was apparently determinedly non-cooperative with giving helpful answers, claiming the ever-popular line: “I do not recall”. We’ll have more on this, but first to his claims of fear. The matter arose after two hours of cross-examination, when Senator Lizarraga asked Middleton if his life was under any kind of threat. This is how that exchange went:

Inflation Rate Is Up For February 2017
The Statistical Institute of Belize today published its latest statistics on prices and external trade for the country of Belize. First we take a look at the consumer price index for which the report shows that prices increased, on average by 2.3 percent for the month of February 2017 as it stood 105.1, compared to 102.7 in February 2016. For the first two months of the year 2017, an inflation rate of 2.3 percent was recorded. Higher prices were recorded across the three largest categories, namely ‘Transport’, ‘Food and Non-alcoholic Beverages’ and ‘Housing, Water, Electricity Gas and other Fuels’, which together account for almost two thirds of all household purchases.

PUP Calls On Government to Act Now Against Crime
Following the reports of a bloody weekend which resulted in a total of eight murders in our jewel including the death of a police officer who was viciously attacked in front of the Racoon Police Station in Belize City, the People’s United Party issued a release articulating their grave concern and alarm on the crime situation in Belize. The release indicates that the Opposition is displeased with the government’s decision to cut the Police’s budget by $2 million as it clearly shows GOB’s inattentiveness and negligence regarding the escalation of crime in our country due to the fact that last year, the country recorded the second highest murder rate in a period of five years. The release also added that while the budget was presented, there were no allocations to the prosecution arm of the police or state and a reduction in the Judiciary’s allocation was witnessed.

Exportation Plummets In February 2017
As we told you earlier in the newscast today the Statistical Institute of Belize issued its latest statistics for the month of February 2017 including exporting figures which continue to decline. Domestic exports for February 2017 totaled $25.8 million, a 12.9 percent or $3.8 million decrease when compared to exports for the month of February 2016. A steep fall in citrus sales during the month was the primary cause of the overall decrease in Belize’s export earnings. Citrus exports, comprising mainly of orange concentrate, dropped by 45 percent or $3.9 million, from the $8.7 million noted for February 2016. Additionally, sugar exports for the month fell by $1.5 million, as exported quantities of that commodity dwindled by over half. (Show Ex trade fig 3)

Importation Also Declines On February
Turing over to Belize’s total imports for the month of February 2017, it was valued at $140.4 million representing a significant 13.1 percent or $21.1 million decrease from imports during the same month in 2016, which totaled $161.6 million. (Show Ex trade fig 1) For the second month in a row, imports were down across most categories. ‘Machinery and Transport Equipment’, was the category with the largest recorded drop for the month, which fell by $10.8 million, from $42.2 million to $31.4 million. Goods imported into the ‘Commercial Free Zones’ amounted to $21.1 million, a decline of $6.8 million when compared to that of last February, with cigarettes, handbags and shoes being among the diminished items. (Show Ex trade fig 2)

Middleton Claims Amnesia
At this point, the Senate hearing ended. It was one of the most difficult for the Chairman and Committee members because Middleton took on the nature of a hostile witness and even though he swore under oath to tell nothing but the truth, he was clearly cagey, super cautious and conspicuously concealing something. In the past three hearings, Middleton has been identified and fingered by not less than four persons, including three Immigration Officers for playing some role in the case of handling visas that went missing from the Western Border. For former UDP Belize City Council financial controller Patrick Tillett, Middleton was the Immigration agent who he hired and paid $3,000 to get visas and ensure that they were processed. Today, when asked to respond to the allegations directly, Middleton claimed they were all false and that he doesn’t even know Tillett.

Suspected Drug Plain Landed In Northern Belize
Police tonight continue to investigate another suspected drug plane which made its landing in Belize. On Monday March 27th, with the assistance of Guatemalan Civil Aviation, Belize police managed to intercept a CESSNA Piper Aztec single engine plane abandoned in northern Belize, allegedly on a cane road. The exact location of where the white with burgundy and sliver trim Piper PA-23-250 aircraft with tail number N6769Y was found is yet to be revealed by authorities. While no drugs or passengers were found inside the aircraft at the time of the discovery, the plane had made an illegal landing, since it had no flight plan for Belize - clearly indicating an illicit mission.

Senator Salas Disagrees With PM On Statutory Bodies Not Being Accountable
When the controversial PACT amendment bill was introduced by the Prime Minister on March 13, the rationale given by the PM was that the finances of the Statutory Bodies needed to be better Policed by the Government of Belize. The implied translation of this was clearly that the Statutory Bodies which include the Protected Areas Conservation Trust, PACT and the Belize Tourism Board, BTB were not being fully accountable. That’s a serious accusation and as you would expect, the NGO Senator Osmany Salas could not agree.

LOVE FM

Working at Cyber Security and Internet Governance
In the past weeks, the media has shed light on an increasing problem stemming from internet use. We have seen cases where teenagers and adults have fallen victim to hacking and cyber bullying. The issue is growing and with it grows concerns not only from the public at large, but from the business sector and […]

$100K From GEF to Rio Blanco
Two organizations in rural Toledo are being given grants totaling one hundred thousand dollars. Paul Mahung has the story. PAUL MAHUNG “

Japanese Government Gifts High School $160K
The Government of Japan has gifted more than eighty thousand US dollars to Our Lady of Guadalupe High School in Belmopan. Correspondent Fem Cruz tells us more. FEM CRUZ “

Breaking Belize News

Belize economy declines by 1.2% in 4th quarter
For the first time in five years, Belize has seen a decline in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) fourth quarter of the year. This week, the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) released the statistics for the 4th Quarter GDP 2016, showing a decline of 1.2 percent (almost $8 million) when compared to the same period in 2015. The SIB’s data showed that the country’s economic activity declined from $675 million in 2015 to $667 million in 2016.

“Mr. Middleton” scared for life, can’t remember anything
The elusive Barton Middleton, whose name has become synonymous with the Senate inquiry into allegations of corruption at the Immigration Department, faced the Select Committee today and said he feared for his life. “Nothing is ever as simple as it seems,” he told the committee. According to Middleton, he fears for his personal safety and security. He reported seeing strange cars following him since the start of the hearings.

Police investigating suspected drug plane that landed in northern Belize
On Monday, March 27, 2017 based upon information received from authorities in Guatemala, Belizean authorities visited an area in northern Belize. Upon arrival, they observed a white with burgundy and sliver trim Piper PA-23-250 aircraft with tail number N6769Y.

CARI-SECURE tours Belize’s Crime Observatory
Yesterday, key figures in security from the different Caribbean countries gathered in Belize City to observe the systematic and technical functions of the information management systems within the country’s criminal justice system. This was an initiative of the newly launched CARISECURE Project, a project aimed at “Strengthening evidence based decision making for citizen security in the Caribbean”.

NICH launches series of lectures on National Symbols of Belize
The Museum of Belize, in the National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) is launching the first of a series of lectures focused on the National Symbols of Belize. The lectures, which begins today with the National Flag and Coat of Arms, are done in collaboration with the University of Belize. Today’s presentation included presentations from the University of Belize, as well as from the Director of the Institute for Social ND Cultural Research, Nigel Encalada.

PACT Amendment Bill to be presented to Governor General for assent despite Senate voting against it
This week, the Senate voted against the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (Amendment) Bill on its second reading making legislative history. The amendment bill proposed to introduce a development fee to be collected from any border administered with support from PACT – an important bill to help increase revenue in Government’s 2017/2018 Budget .

Start demanding sanitary food!
Belizeans, for better or worse, depend heavily on fast food restaurants all over the country. Fast food restaurants offer the convenience of speed and low cost, with the downside of being a less than optimal healthy alternative. To this end, Chinese restaurants in particular, have benefited greatly from Belizean consumers. Apart from rice and beans, fried chicken is close behind in the national dish race.

San Ignacio rappers release new music video
The song- 1 I Want was recently released by the 501 Prince’s, a group of young rappers from San Ignacio Town. The 501 Prince’s consists of: Amir Frutos, Tyromae Tyler Vasquez, and Deon Harris aka “Genuine”. The rappers told BBN that the track is their first music video for this year and the remix was done by “Genuine”, their in-house mixer.

Johnny Depp to play infamous John McAfee
According to PC Tech Authority, Pirates of the Caribbean star Johnny Depp is set to play millionaire programmer turned suspected murderer John McAfee. Depp will reportedly play McAfee as he takes a “magazine writer on a darkly comic Apocalypse Now-like tour at his Belize compound, a trip filled with paranoia, machine guns, sex and murder”.

Belizean DJ to showcase Belizean talent at birthday bash
Popular and International Belizean DJ, Richie Galvez who is loved by many fans at home and abroad for his prodigious skills in mixing music will be using his birthday to promote Belizean music and artists from all around the country. Galvez’s birthday is tomorrow, March 30th and he has organized the event at the Double O’s compound in Belmopan City.

Police intercept suspected drug plane in northern Belize
Yesterday, Belize police intercepted a CESSNA Piper Aztec single engine plane in northern Belize. According to 7 News Belize, police acted on a tip from Guatemalan Civil aviation and it is suspected to be a drug cargo plane.

Issuance of Fishing License
The Belize Fisheries Department issued a release reminding the public that it will cease the issuance/renewal of fisher folk and vessel licenses for the year 2017 by April 14th, 2017. Fishers are advised that they must be in compliance with the following:

Blogs

Appreciating the West Indian Manatee!
I haven’t seen a single manatee in the wild in my entire life, and it’s not for trying! Nevertheless, I love these gentle mammals and on their day, I’ll share some facts to raise awareness and help protect them so that more people get the chance to see a manatee in the wild! (Including me, someday…) Belize is home to the West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus), an endangered species, and they are protected by law. They play an important part in our country, from contributing to Belize’s rich biological diversity to providing a diverse opportunity for tourism.

Spring Break For the Non Traditionally Aged on Ambergris Caye: A Golf Cart Bar Crawl
We are in the midst of Spring Break season. And on Ambergris Caye, rather than a Cancun or Daytona Beach situation, that means families and smaller groups of young people. The island is bustling with all sorts of visitors looking to escape a winter that is lasting a bit too long up north. A little while ago, I received an email from a reader who has visited the island before. He was returning with a bit group of his friends to rent a gorgeous house in a gorgeous area and celebrating birthdays. Not exactly 20 co-eds packing into one small hotel room in South Padres Island and slugging shots all day and night. Well…not exactly. Bar crawl at Crazy Canucks San Pedro Belize Adam asked me for a proposed golf cart bar crawl. Heading from south of town to north. They were staying at this BEAUTIFUL house and certainly wanted to end up there. They were also celebrating some 50th birthdays!

Belize’s Chaa Creek listed as a National Geographic World Legacy Awards 2017 Winner
Receiving this award has been a great honor to all of us here at The Lodge at Chaa Creek. Engaging communities has been at the core of our ethos since our doors officially opened in 1981. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you, to each member of our team, the owners of one of the most highly rated Eco Lodges in the world, and to all our guests past, present, and future for their invaluable support.

Looking for an retirement in Belize? Corozal is a lovely quite relaxed place
Corozal Town is a town in the nation of Belize, capital of Corozal District. Corozal Town is located about 84 miles north of Belize City, and 9 miles from the border with Mexico. The population of Corozal Town, according to the main results of the 2010 census, is 9,871. Corozal was a private estate before becoming a town in the 1840s, mostly settled by Mestizo refugees from the Caste War of Yucatán. Much of the town was built over an ancient Maya city, sometimes known as Santa Rita; this may have been the original Pre-Columbian town called Chetumal. Corozal is the country’s fourth largest populated district, with 20,335 residents. and home to a growing community of North American and European retirees.In 2010 the American Association of Retired Persons, the AARP, ranked Corozal a top retirement destination. The article describes Corozal: “The Corozal district, a few miles’ drive from the Mexican border, is far more affordable. Corozal expats live a laid-back life, with year-round outdoor play (boating, hiking, swimming, diving), but are still only minutes from the malls and cineplexes of Chetumal, the capital of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo.”

Uxbenka Mayan Ruins in Belize
Although Uxbenka is small, its compact nature gives visitors a chance to see another side of ancient Maya life beyond gigantic pyramids and vast causeways. Translated from Mayan, Uxbenka means “ancient place” as it has been used for ceremonies for centuries. At Uxbenka, it’s possible to see how the Maya used terracing to tame the jungle wilderness, including an artificial hill that the Maya built for religious ceremonies. The site is still being excavated but it is possible to explore the main plaza along with a series of smaller squares. Six buildings have been reclaimed so far along with seven carved stelae and 13 uncarved stelae. Uxbenka is located just outside of Santa Cruz village in Belize’s southern Toledo District. Uxbenka is still in the process of being excavated, so it isn’t officially open to visitors. Nonetheless, it is possible to visit this site. The best way is to head to the village of Santa Cruz in Toledo District and then find the water tower. The partially excavated portions of Uxbenka, including seven carved stelae, are just a short distance away.

International Sources

Meet the Brave Bodyguards Protecting Belize’s Scarlet Macaws From Poachers
The Scarlet Macaw’s last, best defense against wildlife poachers doesn’t look like much: just a ramshackle collection of tarps, makeshift tables, plastic five-gallon buckets, jungle hammocks, and a cook fire, hidden in the dense understory of a tropical hardwood forest near the fraught and uncomfortably porous border between Belize and Guatemala. It’s taken us hours to get here—the first leg an overland journey from San Ignacio in the Cayo District of western Belize, haggling our way through military and ranger checkpoints and bumping over red dirt roads that are more rock and ravine than actual thoroughfares. But reaching the banks of the Macal River was merely the first step. The trip upriver took us another hour or so, the labored whine of the skiff’s outboard motor following us as we passed hundreds of drowned trees jutting skyward from the water and verdant riverbanks. Egrets, cormorants, and Anhingas eyed us suspiciously while a Double-toothed Kite wheeled overhead. The water was glassy flat, the current so sluggish that the river seems caught in stasis. At one point, Roni Martinez, a Belizean bird guide and one of two founders of Scarlet Six Biomonitoring Team, pointed out a tapir on the far bank. At first it looked like any other dead log—and then it lumbered up the incline and disappeared into the forest. (Editor's note: Scarlet Six Biomonitoring Team changed its name to Belize Bird Conservancy after this issue of Audubon magazine went to print.)

Belize regulator IFSC warns against forex broker Premium Point Market
Belize financial regulator IFSC (International Financial Services Commission) has issued a warning regarding retail forex brokerage firm Premium Point Market, operating from website premierfxmarket.com. It has come to the notice of the IFSC that an entity calling itself Premier Point Market is falsely claiming to be registered in Belize. The representation made on the broker’s website to that effect is inaccurate and misleading. The IFSC confirms that Premier Point Market is not registered as a company nor licensed by the International Financial Services Commission of Belize or any other competent authority in Belize to engage in any type of trading business.

Engineering in Belize
Eight students with W&L’s Engineering Community Development club traveled to Belmopan, Belize to build a bio-sand water filter for a local high school. The students spent a week working with a local organization called Belize BaseCamp, which matches missionaries and volunteers with jobs. The W&L group worked on the site of a former church that is being turned into a high school. They built a bio-sand filter, which uses natural materials and beneficial bacteria to mimic how the earth itself filters water when it rains. This is the second such filter that W&L students have built in Belize; W&L groups have also built bio-sand filters in Guatemala. “The trip to Belize was incredible for two major reasons,” said Walker Brand ’18. “One, our work down there has the potential to positively affect the lives of an entire village for years to come, and two, the group of students that went on the trip were a blast to hang out and collaborate with. I will cherish the memories we made and the virtue of the work we did for the rest of my life.”

ENR MidAtlantic Names Moguel to List of Region's Best & Brightest
Belizean, Gregory G. Moguel, has been selected as one of the Top Young Professionals in the construction industry by Engineering News-Record MidAtlantic. Gregory G. Moguel, PE, ENV SP, NACE CIP II, has been selected as one of the Top Young Professionals in the construction industry by Engineering News-Record MidAtlantic. Moguel is a construction services project manager for Gannett Fleming and leads the design and construction of water and wastewater infrastructure. He has been with the firm for 10 years.

Videos

March 29, 2017

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Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, West Vision (Cayo) and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials

Ambergris Today

Belize Highlights International Women's Month
Minister of Defence Hon. John Saldivar this morning addressed a gathering of women who work within his ministry and departments under his command. The event was organized as part of International Women’s Month activities under the theme, “Women in the Changing World of Work: Planet 50-50 by 2030”. In his remarks, Hon Saldivar stated, “It is really nice to have a special time for women where they are glorified to the point of being honored, awarded and appreciated. I hope this builds awareness and acknowledgement of the woman’s contribution to life, society, family and work; we salute her strength, resilience and sacrifice. Women empowerment lies in honoring yourself and treating yourself with respect. Remember, “No one can put you down without your permission” – Eleanor Roosevelt. For all you have done and continue to do for the Ministry and the Security Forces, Thank You.”

$10K For Oceana Belize, 30 Laptops For San Pedro High, Ultrasound For Poly Clinic
Blue Water Grill trio of businesses does not stop giving back to the community. This month alone they presented donations to three organizations amounting over $57,000. The first is a donation of 30 new laptops for the computer lab at San Pedro High School. In January and February 2017, Blue Water Grill customers donated $5,004, which they matched. Guests of The Phoenix donated $2,685, which The Phoenix matched and customers of Wine de Vine donated $182, which Wine de Vine matched. With the entire amount of $15,741the laptops were donated to the high school. “Thanks to you and your continued support of our businesses, we're able to make a meaningful difference in our community. We're grateful for that.” - Blue Water Grill Group of Businesses

Belize Temporarily Bans Brazilian Corned Beef
After GraceKennedy announced it has suspended sales of corned beef originating from Brazil, Belize Agricultural Health Authority along with the Ministry of Health have come together and issued a press release stating their take of action towards this situation.

Misc Belizean Sources

Sand on the beach in downtown San Pedro
Over the weekend, the San Pedro Town Council had some sand spread over some popular beach areas for everyone to enjoy in the upcoming Easter holidays. These areas have lost a lot of sand lately since the Sargassum invasion is back and a lot of sand is lost in the removal of the sargassum.

Police Pursuit leads to canal
On Tuesday, March 28th an early morning pursuit on East Collet Canal by the police resulted in grey Mazda Tribute driving in the Canal. The occupants were detained.

Belize Fishing Report, Mar 20th - Mar 26th, 2017
Bones, bones and more bones, everyone had a great week fishing for those powerful bonefish. Seasoned anglers and beginners were finding lots of hungry bonefish because of the calmer winds and sunny skies. Even our fishing director Isa was able to get out on the water and enjoy a few tugs on the rod. Great week of beautiful weather and happy anglers!

Ottawa Travel and Vacation Show
In Canada, Board President Leisa Carr-Caceres and Treasurer Ted Tejada promoted our members and the country of Belize at the Ottawa Travel and Vacation Show on March 25, 26, 2017. Ottawa is Canada's capital city: home of the federal government, embassies, three universities and the center of Canada's high tech industry. With a population of over 1.2 million Ottawa has the 2nd highest per capita income of all major Canadian cities.

BHA promotes members and Belize at Beneath the Sea Dive Show
The BHA, represented by Board Directors Sandra Van Noord and Barbara Hall, was at Beneath the Sea Dive Show in New Jersey this weekend March 24, 25, 26, 2017. This consumer Dive Show attracts both divers AND non-divers from the lucrative North-East region which has the U.S.A's wealthiest and largest concentration of consumers who are all within easy travel distance of the show. It offers the opportunity to meet with new AND existing customers to promote and educate them about our country and to guide them in making their upcoming travel plans to our destination. In addition, Beneath The Sea, Inc. is a nonprofit, volunteer, membership organization, recognized nationally and Internationally as a source of education about the ocean environment.

REVOLUTIONARY BELIZEAN PHOTO JOURNALIST FRANZWAH ESTRADA (PT.1)
In this fourth feature on the "Belize Art Shop" featuring the hard hitting Belizean Photo Journalist, Franzwah Estrada, who has been no stranger in the Los Angeles Belizean Community where he lives and work as an artist in photography and film, we here at Belizean Legends want to honor this brother for his many years of incredible work and contribution to the development of the Los Angeles Belizean Community. Estrada's work stems extensively across a wide spectrum of culture, politics, and entertainment, and can be seen more vividly through the awesome photo essay here where he captured the passionate moments of mostly Belizean women in protest against the insidious Guatemalan claim of Belize on May 5, 2016 at the Guatemalan Consulate on Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles, California.

Culinary Arts program at Ocean Academy
We are so excited to partner with instructor Sharon Tillett to offer the ITVET Level 1 Culinary Arts program at OA. Want to see the fruit carving techniques in person? Come Tuesday April 4th, 10-3, Caye Caulker Palapa Gardens (beach beside Rainbow).

Issuance of Fishing License
The Belize Fisheries Department hereby reminds the public that it will cease the issuance/renewal of fisher folk and vessel licenses for the year 2017 by April 14th, 2017. Furthermore, fishers are advised that they must be in compliance with the following: • Each vessel captain must comply with the filling of the Catch Log Book on every trip and submit to a fisheries officer out at sea or in Belize City Office;

Cayo Rosario EIA Lodgment and Public Consultation
The Environmental Impact Assessment report for a tourism development on Cayo Rosario was submitted to the DOE by Cayo Rosario Development Limited. The EIA report is available for public viewing, and a public consultation for the EIA will be held on April 5, 2017 at 6:30pm at the Lion's Den in San Pedro.

Belmopan Open Mic Night
Open Mic Night is coming Belmopan this Thursday at the Wingz Stop. $1000 cash prize! Registration starts 6:30 p.m.

Works to Commence for Fifth Road Project - Section B
The Government of Belize, through the Ministry of Works, today signed a construction contract with Cisco Construction Ltd., in the amount of BZ$20,899,031.40, to carry out Section B of the Fifth Road Project. The Government of Belize secured a loan from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) for the Fifth Road Project (Phillip S.W. Goldson Highway Upgrading). This project, located in Belize City and Ladyville is divided into several components, two of which directly address road infrastructure: Section A (Airport Road Junction to Haulover Bridge) and Section B (Haulover Bridge to Buttonwood Bay Boulevard Roundabout).

9 NURSES TO BE CERTIFIED AS “REGISTERED DIALYSIS NURSE” BY THE NURSES AND MIDWIVES COUNCIL THROUGH THE COOPERATION PROJECT BETWEEN BELIZE AND TAIWAN ON CHRONIC RENAL FAILURE
The Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) is pleased to announce that currently 5 nurses from Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital have been certified as “Registered Dialysis Nurse” by Nurses and Midwives Council, while another 4 nurses from La Loma Luz Adventist Hospital will be certified in the coming weeks. These nurses were selected for the dialysis training through the “Capacity Building Project for the Prevention and Control of Chronic Renal Failure in Belize” (also known as the “Renal Failure Prevention Project”).

Driver dumps PG trash on roadside!
Caught in the act! Punta Gorda Town Council illegal dumping in wetland area and on roadside Department of the Environment please take note. Are these guys above the law??? This is less than a mile from the Rio Grande River and in Wetland area.

The Second ANNUAL Ubuntu Event
clock Thursday, April 6 at 10 AM - 3 PM. On display their will have booths showcasing students entreprenuership, apprenticeships.

SHJC Marketing Expo 2017
Sacred Heart Junior College is having their annual Marketing Expo this Saturday, April 1st, at the Cayo Welcome Center. They'll have food and drinks, and some interesting creations.

Earth Hour Belize 2017
Pictures from the 2017 Earth Hour celebration in Belmopan. "Thank YOU Belize for coming out to celebrate EarthHour2017 and taking the time to shine a light on climate action. We'll make this planet we call home a better place yet!"

Western Ballaz Host Dream Ballers
The Western Ballaz defeated the Hurricanes last week, but just lost to the Tiger Sharks. They are hosting the Dream Ballers this Friday, March 31st. Go Ballaz! "...coming up in our NEXT HOME GAME are the young studs of the South, the Dream Ballers. Western Ballaz Nation! Save the date and let's do this together!!! Let's go Ballaz!!

Toyota Chiquibul Expedition
Toyota Chiquibul Expedition coming up on the 29th and 30th of April. To sign up for the Expedition contact: expedition@belizediesel.com or ryan@belizediesel.com

Lecture series focusing on the 'The Coat of Arms and the National Flag of Belize'
Today March 29th, 2017 the Museum of Belize in collaboration with the University of Belize cordially invites the general public to the first segment of our National Symbols lecture series focusing on the 'The Coat of Arms and the National Flag of Belize'. The first session of the lecture will be held at the Bliss Institute for the Performing Arts (Belize City) at 10:00am-11:30am. The second session of the lecture is scheduled at the University of Belize Jaguar Auditorium (Belmopan) at 2:00pm - 3:30pm. We encourage everyone to come and partake in this very educational discourse in enhancing our national consciousness.

Channel 7

Suspected Drug Plane Intercepted In Northern Belize, In Working Condition
Suspected drug planes can often traffic above and through Belize, and sometimes, they leave a plane behind. But in almost all cases, the drug cargo is removed, and those planes are burnt to get rid of evidence. But yesterday, Belize police, acting on a tip from Guatemalan Civil Aviation managed to intercept a CESSNA Piper Aztec single engine plane that was in good working order. Now, there was no drugs on board, but we know the plane was found in northern Belize on a cane road. It had made an illegal landing, and had no flight plan for Belize - clearly indicating an illicit mission. No drugs were found on board and there was no trace of the passengers. But, the plane was in good working order so the police got someone to fly it out of there to the Phillip Golden Airport where it is parked on the tarmac tonight.

Senate Rejects PACT Bill, Delays Implementation of Tax Measure, GOB Loses Revenue
Yesterday was the first time that the re-constituted Senate met with all 13 members. As we told you last night, the government side of 6 senators were in the minority for the first time in Belize's history. So, the Senate had the opportunity even to delay the budget, which is the centerpiece of governance. But they didn't do that because the Churches voted with the government Senator to pass the budget. But, the Church voted against one of the revenue measures that goes along with the budget. That's the PACT Amendment Bill, which will be amended to put an additional fee on visitors leaving the country. The Church Senator said it will affect the Christian missionaries who visit Belize, so he voted against it. And with that, for the first time, the Senate rejected a money bill. It's consequential for government which is hosting to raise 11 million dollars in the next fiscal year with this measure. But by rejecting it, the Senate only delays implementation by a month - meaning the Government will lose one month of revenue from this measure. Today, the man who was named the 13th Senator discussed the history and implications with CTV-3 in Orange Walk.

Marcial Toledo, Family Says He Killed Cop Because PC Locke Wanted His Wife
Tonight, more is known about Marcial Toledo, the man accused of stabbing a police officer to death at the Raccoon Street Police Station. First, the prison rejected him when he showed up for remand yesterday because he had no medico-legal form. So, he had to be held by police and brought back to court this morning and then escorted back to prison with his medico legal form. So he's under remand tonight, but his family says he's not himself. His daughter, Lilian Toledo, 21, and son, Dilfio Toledo, 24, told the media outside the court room that their father is behaving out of character, because of his head injury.

Sleeping Policeman Shot
And while the police department is still reeling from that tragedy that happened right before their eyes, on their own turf, last night the department got another shock when a police officer shot in his home, reportedly with his own Glock pistol. Tonight, police are calling it an accident. They say that 40-year-old Police Corporal Daniel Lawrence attached to Strike Team South, was asleep in his room with his license 9 millimeter pistol under his pillow when it accidentally discharged hitting him in the chest. Lawrence reportedly received a punctured lung, and is admitted to the KHMH in a stable condition.

Church Deplores Sin, Loves Sin Tax
The new fiscal year starts on April first. That's Saturday - and while it may be April Fool's day, don't be fooled when you see increased prices on beer and rum. That's the effect of the sin tax government is levying through which they hope to raise almost 30 million dollars in additional revenue. So, the tax is steep but yesterday in the Senate, the Senator for the church said, he wishes it would be higher:... Hon. Ashley Rocke- Senator for Churches: "It is noted with great enthusiasm the hiking of taxes for spiritual drinks. Honestly it would not have bothered me if the tax were increased more. Alcohol as we know can be blamed, in past and present time, for a great number of road traffic accidents and deaths, homicides in our homes, spousal and child abuse, problem among our youths who wantonly abuse the freedom of access to wildly use drugs wherever and whenever they can find it. We believe the family of our homes have been greatly disenfranchised because of this scourge. We are praying that this hike may serve as a deterrent."

Major Bust of Undersized Conch At Fisheries
Right now, the Fisheries Department is finishing up their paperwork to march 29 fishermen in front of the Magistrate's Court for breaking the fisheries laws. They are being accused of fishing over 3,300 undersized conch. They were caught in a raid last Friday that the Fisheries Department conducted in Southern waters with the help of the Belize Audubon Society and the Police Department. The joint patrol came upon the undersized conchs and 493 fish fillets without skin patches. The skin patch laws were put in place for the fisheries catch to be easily identified so that the officials can ensure that the fish species being targeted are not the important grazing kind which keeps the Barrier reef clean.

Feinstein Group Goes After Hon. Heredia
The Stake Bank Cruise Tourism Project - we haven't heard of it for a while, and indeed its gone on the back burner ever since Government gave developer Mike Feinstein the red light. But it came back up in the House Debates, with a few PUP members calling on government to re-activate the plan. When the Tourism Minister responded, he made it clear that Stake Bank and Mike Feinstein are not favorably viewed by the Barrow administration:... Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr., Minister of Tourism: "The same PUP - you can recall the old customs area, that practically they gave it away to some cronies and friends over there to create what is today the Fort Street Village and they created the law that Fort Street will collect the head tax from those boats and today the same member that sold to the Royal Caribbean, he wants to be getting a portion of that same head tax.."

Discussing Alternative Energy
Today the Ministry of Public Services and Energy hosted a workshop with stakeholders to discuss the implementation of a new Energy Information Management system. The data gathered through the system will allow the Ministry and other partners to develop strategies to improve the country's energy consumption. We spoke to the CEO of the Ministry, Dr. Peter Allen, about the event... Dr. Peter Allen, CEO - Ministry of Energy: "We are co-hosting this with OLADE, is the acronym for the Latin American Energy Organization and as a member of OLADE we have collaboratively worked on a series of different standards for the region. One of those is information systems. So OLADE have developed a common regional energy information system and it designed so that we can compare prices, costs, quantities and sources of energy and how we use energy across the region, so that we can both compare always looking for best practices. The workshop this week invites most of our stakeholders in the energy system both users and producers of energy. To learn how to use this system we'll make it available free of cost. The department of energy will administer the system and make the information freely available to everybody including the media."

Hit And Run Victim Identified
Last night we told you about a road traffic accident between Miles 8 and 9 on the Stann Creek Valley Road. Today, police were able to identify the victim of an alleged hit and run. According to police, 61 year old Rogelio Perez, a resident of Hope Creek Village, was riding on the side of the road at around midnight when he was hit by an unknown vehicle. Perez succumbed to his injuries a few hours later. Police are currently trying to find the driver of that vehicle.

Santa Cruz Story Straightened Out
Last night, we showed you the press briefing hosted by the Commissioner of Police, in which he and other senior officers discussed the violent weekend and the 8 murders which happened countrywide. Well, the Police Press Office finally released the official details on one of the two murders from Santa Cruz, Stann Creek. That's one where 23 year-old Ostin Zavala was stabbed to death at the Los Amigos Bar on Sunday night, at around 10 o'clock. Police investigation say that the Bella Vista village resident arrived and saw a man attacking the owner of the bar. He intervened, trying to stop the fight, and he was stabbed in the heat of the moment. That injury was to the chest, and he bled out and died right there at the Los Amigos Bar. Police have not reported any detentions in this case.

Courts Cares For Fire Victims
Since Friday, victims of the Pink's Alley fire have received support from the government and other NGO's. And now the business community is doing what it can to give back too. Today Courts, donated sixteen double mattresses and thirty two new pillows to the affected families. We spoke to Unicomer's Marketing Officer, Grisel Carballo, and Melissa Major, one of the victims of the fire, about the donation...

Councillor Phil Welcomes Charity, Urges Caution
And as the list of businesses and organizations that want to offer their help to the victims of the Pink's Alley fire continues to grow, the Belize City Council has some concerns. The councilors are worried that some people may take advantage of the generous donations and receive items when they were not affected by the fire at all. Councilor Phillip Willoughby outlined some of his concerns today and gave us an update of the support for the victims...

Paying Artists Their Due
When you are jumping up to Ernestine Carballo's soca selections during Carnival or singing along to Ras Indios reggae tracks on the radio , no one stops to think about copyright laws and the fact that these Belizean artists aren't getting paid the royalties they are due . Well music ambassador Shyne Barrow wants to change that. As we have reported Shyne is calling on artists to protest against businesses that are not adhering to the copyright laws. So, today, Barrow and his team at the Belizean society of composers , authors and publishers held a press briefing with a visiting expert to reinforce the importance of paying copyright fees.

Upheaval Reported At UDP Meeting In Dangriga
All is not well inside the UDP Camp in Dangriga. 7 News has received multiple credible reports which say that a divisional meeting held last night ended up in ruction, with blows being thrown. The meeting was held with all the elected UDP officials in Dangriga, meaning the town council and the area rep, along with the divisional committee. Now, it seems the Committee Chairman and the area Representative aren't on good terms, and words started to be thrown between supporters of the two. Things escalated, and reports say that one of Mena's sidemen threw a chair at a supporter of the other UDP faction. With that, the meeting had to be called to an abrupt close. The person who was assaulted made a report to Dangriga police.

Road Contract Inked
Drivers who use the Philip Goldson Highway are well aware of the road upgrading works that Cisco Construction has been conducting on the stretch of the road from Ladyville to the Haulover Bridge for the past few months. There's only a few more miles to go before that construction is complete, but the Government has already signed another contract with the company to start working on the section of the road which runs from Haulover Bridge to the Buttonwood Bay Boulevard Roundabout. A press release from the Government of Belize says that the contract is worth almost 20.9 million dollars, and it's called Section B of the Fifth Road Project.

Mayor Welcomes Community Cash For Streets
And while the CDB is financing that project, The Mayor of Belize City is inviting Belize City neighborhoods to come forward and join in a partnership with the city council to pave streets in their area. He says the formula is simple: all the residents can get together and prepay a few years of property taxes which they would put a down payment towards paving the streets in their area. He says this is working out with Bella Vista on the northern highway: Darrell Bradley- Mayor of Belize City : "Two weeks ago through the support and the leadership of several members of the community we had a meeting and about 40 to 50 members of that community attended."

Breaking News Reveals Unsettling Guatemalan Doc.
There's a news item emerging from Belize Breaking News this evening which says that the Government of Guatemala is in the process of officially including the Sarstoon area on its official map. The article quotes a document from Guatemala's Foreign Affairs Ministry. We have seen such a Spanish language document dated January 17, 2017. It says that the Guatemalan Government is working on a proposal that will include parts of Belize on the official map of Guatemala. While we are working on the translation, the document discusses on exploration of oil in the subsoil of Belize.

The Protectors Made Us Proud
The Belize Protectors are back. The team of law enforcement officers left Belize last Thursday to participate in the Baker to Vegas Competition. The Belize Protectors competed with 300 teams in a 120 mile, 20 leg relay race. Last year, the Belize team placed 6th overall in the competition, and this time they did even better. The Protectors made good on their intensive training and managed to bring home the bronze, placing 3rd overall.

Channel 5

Who Shot Strike Team Cop at Church Street Home?
Another cop goes down in the city and is tonight fighting for his life at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City. But there are more questions than answers [...]

Accused Cop-Killer Marcial Toledo Arraigned; Family Claims They were Threatened
Forty-seven-year-old Marcial Toledo, an accused cop killer, is tonight on remand at the Belize Central Prison after being arraigned on Monday for the brutal murder of a law enforcement officer.  [...]

Cops Mull Safety Measures at Police Stations
The daring mid-afternoon murder of Police Constable Marvin Locke, while on duty at the Raccoon Street Precinct on Sunday, has left the department badly shaken up and reeling from the [...]

Was Kenzle Hulse Properly Charged?
Twenty-seven-year-old Kenzle Hulse was quietly arraigned in the Belmopan Magistrate’s Court last Wednesday, after being arrested and charged for the lesser crime of harm.  The young businessman’s indictment comes several [...]

No New Police Recruit Squad, But ComPol Won’t Complain
A new fiscal year will be ushered in on Saturday, minus the celebration that usually accompanies the ringing in of a new calendar year.  In fact, the 2017 financial calendar [...]

Fisheries Department and Others Raid Lighthouse Reef for Violators
The Fisheries Department is tightening up on persons who violate fisheries regulations. A group of fishermen from Ranchito, Copper Bank and San Joaquin villages up north were taken to court [...]

Guatemala Seeking to Formally Annex Sarstoon?
Is the Guatemalan Government stepping up its aggressive campaign against Belize, even before a referendum to take the unfounded territorial claim to the I.C.J. is held? Reports surfaced today that [...]

PACT Bill Voted Down in Senate, Making Legislative History
For one of the rare instances in Belizean legislative history, the ‘noes’ had it in the Senate with regard to the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (Amendment) Bill on its second [...]

What Did Ambassador Joel Nagel Do in Austria?
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wilfred Elrington, confirmed last Thursday at the House debate that the Ambassador of Belize to Austria, Joel Nagel, was told to leave his post by [...]

Courtenay Slams Elrington for “Squatters” Comment
The comment by Minister of Foreign Affairs Wilfred Elrington on the topic of Belize’s borders and how they have not been fully drawn and accepted, in which he compared Belize’s [...]

More Passports, Less Money for Immigration?
Senator Courtenay also reacted to the rise of the number of passports being issued and the amount Government is collecting for them. He points out that with nearly four times [...]

Hulse Hails Agriculture Rebound, Promises Tight Reins on Spending
Leader of Government Business in the Senate, Godwin Hulse, wrapped up debate on the General Revenue and Appropriation Bill around news time on Monday evening after a full day of [...]

Stake Bank’s Feinstein Refutes Tourism Minister
Developer Michael Feinstein has come out swinging against Minister of Tourism Manuel Heredia Junior, following recent statements made during the budget debate on Friday.  Those comments were purportedly in reference [...]

Courts Gives Beds, Write-Offs to Majestic Alley Fire Victims
Eighteen families and just over fifty persons have been displaced by last Friday’s inferno that swept through an apartment complex and two houses in the heart of Fort George area, [...]

U.S. Army Takes Belize “Beyond the Horizon”
The U.S. Army South, in partnership with the B.D.F., will be kicking off Beyond the Horizon 2017. For about ten years now, the training exercise has been taking place in [...]

PACT Makes Grants to Protected Areas Managers
Five organizations that manage the network of protected areas across the country are beneficiaries of a combined one million dollars plus in grants. The awards were disbursed on Monday by [...]

Energy Workers Harness Information
Stakeholders from across the energy sector are participating in a four-day seminar that is being facilitated by the Latin American Energy Organization, OLADE.  The workshop focuses on the establishment of [...]

BSCAP, Artists Say Pay to Play our Music!
The Belizean Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, BSCAP, is stepping up the ante and bringing down the hammer on broadcasters, radio stations and businesses who, according to the organization, [...]

Caribbean Partners in Belize to Study Justice System
A group from across the Caribbean is in Belize to learn more about our Criminal Justice System. The team is here under a project called CARISECURE. The project aims to [...]

CTV3

Senator Salas Disagrees With PM on NGO's Not Being Accountable
When the controversial PACT amendment bill was introduced by the Prime Minister on March 13, the rationale given by the PM was that the finances of the NGO community needed to be better Policed by the Government of Belize. The implied translation of this was clearly that the NGOs were not being fully accountable. That’s a serious accusation and as you would expect, the NGO Senator Osmany Salas could not agree.

Fishermen Charges Hefty fine for Being In Possession Of Undersized Conchs
Nine fishermen from the Chunox, Copper Bank and Ranchito Villages located in the Corozal District were formally arrested and charged this morning after they were found in possession of one thousand one hundred sixty two undersized conchs. They are 21 year old Naigel Baptist, 24 year olds Eder Patt and Melvin Marquez, 40 year old Fidel Roberto Chulin, 62 year old Hipolito Gorosica, 35 year old Roberto De la Cruz, Alvaro De la Cruz, Hilario Teck and Jose Monzon.

More On The Budget Presentation
Since Thursday of last week when the Budget debate before the House of Representatives began, we’ve been covering the presentations by the area representatives as both side laid out their reasons for supporting or opposing the budget. We’ve ended up with hours and hours of speeches, and while we can’t show it all, tonight we do have more excerpts of the presentations.

LOVE FM

The Story of Ambassador Joel Nagel Still Untold by Government
Lead Opposition Senator Eamon Courtenay also spoke of matters relating to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, calling out Minister Wilfred Elrington and Belize’s Ambassador to Austria, Joel Nagel. Reports surfaced last week that Ambassador Negal was no longer welcomed in Austria. While the government has yet to issue an official release on the matter, former Prime […]

CEO Says Charter Should Help in Holding Public Officers Accountable
Since the start of the Senate inquiry into the Auditor General’s Report in the Immigration and Nationality Department, revelations coming out of their weekly hearings have alluded to corruption not only among senior officials but also among public officers. In speaking with the Chief Executive Officer for the Ministry of Public Service, Dr Peter Allen, […]

Sugar Farmers’ Livelihood in Danger
The Sugar Industry Research and Development Institute, SIRDI, a key stakeholder in the sugar industry conducted a study on the nutrients found in the soil across the sugar belt and presented the alarming findings to sugar cane farmers today in an all day “sugar cane nutrients symposium” at the headquarters located along the Philip Goldson […]

20 Women Slated to Be Awarded in 2017 Event
The Women’s Department is hosting its annual Women’s Award ceremony tomorrow night at the Belize Biltmore Plaza Hotel in Belize City. This is the twelfth such event and is being hosted by the Women’s Department to highlight the efforts made by women across the country. Acting Director at the Department, Anna Williams spoke to us […]

Seeking Savings via Renewable Energy Sources and OLADE
There is currently an undertaking by the Government of Belize through the Ministry of Public Service to develop a national information system that would aid in gathering data on energy usage in the country. There is the aim by the government to formulate a strategy that would reduce the country’s dependence on imported refined fossil […]

Shyne Pushes Copyright for Local Artists
Today at the Bliss Center for the Performing Arts, the Belizean Society of Composers Authors and Publishers (BSCAP) held a press conference where they discussed the rampant use of music by businesses without the expressed permission from the music owners/creators without any consent. JACKIE CASTILLO ” In-house attorney, Marissa Longsworth stressed the legal importance of […]

Compol Condemns San Ignacio Officers’ Response in Case of Missing Teen
Since last week we have been telling you of the missing 17-year-old from San Ignacio who has been missing since March 11, 2017. The family of Daniel Bennett has been appealing to the media for some days now as they had not been getting any cooperation from the police in that municipality. Love News mentioned […]

Investigation Says Female’s Body Was Skinned and Limbs Severed
Police have been unable to come up with an identity of the female whose body was found in the Iguana Creek Bridge area in Blackman Eddy Village in the Cayo District. Assistant Commissioner of Police, Joseph Myvette provided an update on the case. JOSEPH MYVETTE “

Cristo Rey Chairman Speaks on Fatal Stabbing of Minor
Of the eight murders we reported yesterday, seven of them were men and one was that of a minor. The killing of the minor took place in Cristo Rey Village in the Cayo District identified as 16-year-old, Rosendo Pop. The village Chairman, Elmer Juarez spoke to the media on the incident. ELMER JUAREZ “

Fire Guts Home in Rural Belize
A house in Lords Bank Village was gutted by fire on Tuesday afternoon. Reports are that the fire started some time after one o’clock at a house belonging to Sherima Graham. While Graham, we understand, does not live there, someone was staying at the house. That individual was not at the house when the fire […]

Amandala

Marcial Toledo, 47, arraigned for PC Marvin Locke’s murder
Late this evening, Crimes Investigation Branch officers transported Marcial Toledo, 47, a Honduran national to the Magistrate’s Court. Toledo has been accused of the vicious stabbing murder of Police Constable Marvin Locke, 49, which occurred just outside the Racoon Street Police Station yesterday, Sunday. Toledo, a laborer and resident of 2 Hondo Street, had to be physically taken out of the police vehicle that had transported him to the court. He appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann Marie Smith. Because he speaks very little English, the arraignment had to be done through a Spanish interpreter. Throughout the proceeding, Toledo remained unresponsive.

Majestic Alley fire leaves 51 persons homeless
Residents of well-known Majestic Alley frantically emptied their homes on Friday evening as a raging fire began to consume a number of buildings in close proximity. The fire belched out a thick black smoke overhead which warned citizens, even from a distance, that all was not well on Belize City’s north side. At around 4 p.m., the fire began at the Youngs’ residence near the alley’s basketball court, but within an hour, it consumed an entire long barracks, as well as several adjoining structures.

Belize ranked 12th among the top 25 countries in which Americans have been murdered
Belize has been featured in an article by Business Insider titled, “The most dangerous countries for American tourists, ranked,” which was published on Saturday. According to the article, Belize was ranked 12th among the top 25 countries in which American nationals have been murdered. For the period 2009 to 2016, Belize recorded the death of 16 Americans. Included in that list is the 2016 murder of Anne Swaney, 39, who had served as executive producer of digital operations at ABC-Channel 7 in Chicago, Illinois. Of all Caribbean countries, Haiti took the top spot at 4th place with the murder of 65 Americans.

Cop stabbed to death outside Southside police station
On Sunday afternoon the unthinkable happened at the Racoon Street Police Station in Belize City. A police constable was stabbed to death by a civilian in what Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Chester Williams dubbed, “a crime of passion.” Williams, however, did not go into specifics. At around 3 p.m. Honduran national Marcial Toledo, 47, visited the station in search of PC Marvin Locke, 49. Locke had reportedly been out on patrol, but when he returned to the station, Toledo was waiting for him. He and Toledo reportedly engaged in a conversation while inside the station, but as they walked outside the station building, Toledo took out a knife, hugged Locke like a friend, and stabbed him multiple times in the chest and abdomen.

Hon. Rodwell Ferguson calls attention of the National Assembly to the plight of Kaina Martinez
The plight of Kaina Martinez, the young Garifuna woman who hails from the picturesque seaside fishing village of Seine Bight, was highlighted in Amandala three weeks ago, as she reminded this nation that natural talent is not enough to raise the profile of Belizean athletes without the requisite investment and support from those who can help to build sports in Belize. On the occasion of the national budget debate today, Martinez’s area representative, Hon. Rodwell Ferguson, who has known her since childhood, called the attention of Parliament to Kaina’s plight. “She is very ‘hurted’ to this day that she was refused to go to the Olympics to represent the country of Belize… nobody came to her rescue. She was there alone and nobody knew for sure why she was rejected. She was rejected for a person who has never been a Belizean by birth.

Randy Green, 30, murdered after being acquitted of murder 3 months ago
After spending five years on remand at Kolbe, Randy Green, 30, was one of two men acquitted of the callous 2011 Independence Day murder of 9-year-old Joshua Abraham. Abraham, a standard two student, was gunned down in broad daylight in front of his home on Victoria Street. Last December Green was cleared of the murder charge and released, but after less than three months of freedom, he has been killed. According to police reports, sometime before 4 p.m. on Saturday, Green was in a carpentry shop on Freetown Road when a gunman walked into the compound and fired several shots, fatally hitting him. Green reportedly died on the scene.

Pedal by pedal – champion female cyclist Kaya Cattouse contributes to Cross Country season
Our sports desk was delighted to receive an email today from renowned female champion cyclist Kaya Cattouse, along with an article which we publish below. Kaya said that, with the Cross Country season approaching – Juniors on April 2nd, Females on April 9th, and the Elite on April 15th, “I can do a series of cycling stories leading up to Holy Saturday.” Starting with the Mount Hope Classic, she plans to follow with a story on the Junior Cross Country, the Female Cross Country, and then the Holy Saturday story. “And sometime in between, my top picks for Holy Saturday.” As we approach Cross Country season, the Mount Hope Classic is always a testing meter to determine the level of our local athletes for the Big Dance. This race is only 28 miles shorter than the Annual Holy Saturday Cross Country Classic.

NEBL “In the Paint”
Belize City Hurricanes fans must be fuming, following their 80-71 home loss to the Tiger Sharks on Friday night, and the disappointing showing of this year’s team, in their quest to defend their 2016 championship title. Some of this frustration, obviously, is now being pointed squarely at team management and ownership; and rightfully so, considering the fact that, as far as we can recall, going as far back to the glory days of semi-pro, no championship team has ever fallen so rapidly from a championship run one year, to mediocrity the following year. This, clearly, is a modern-day phenomenon. But, again, as far back as we can recall, no ownership/management of a reigning champion has ever opted not to re-sign arguably three of their best players; in the Hurricanes’ case – Darwin “Puppy” Leslie, Farron Louriano and Jacob Leslie.

Still undefeated at PLB Week 10
Ten weeks of games have gone by in the Premier League of Belize (PLB) 2016-2017 Closing Season, and defending champions Belmopan Bandits SC are still undefeated, following their 4-nil drubbing of Belize Defence Force FC (BDF) yesterday afternoon at the MCC Grounds in Belize City. The Bandits got 2 goals in each half, from Elroy “Bibbs” Kuylen (13’), Nelson Aguero (26’), Jairo Rochez (82’) and Jerome “Jarro” James (87’). With the loss, BDF drops to 4th place in the standings, because of the results in other Week 10 games yesterday. Meanwhile, according to early reports, at the Norman Broaster Stadium, home standing Police United prevailed, 2-0, over Placencia Assassins; at the Carl Ramos Stadium, Verdes grabbed the 1-nil win over home squad Wagiya, on a goal by Marlon Molina (26’); and at the Victor Sanchez Union Field in Punta Gorda, both Wilmer Garcia of P.G.’s Freedom Fighters and Ashton Lewis of visiting FC Belize scored in the 56th minute of their game, which ended in a 1-1 stalemate.

National Amateur Women’s League Week 2 results
Week 2 games were played over the weekend in the National Amateur Women’s League. In the first of 3 Saturday games, at the Carl Ramos Stadium in Dangriga, Nykemah Kuylen had a hat trick (19’, 54’ & 93’), to lead Griga Pumas to a 3-2 win over visiting Toledo Strikers, who got a goal each from Silvia Pan (41’) and Zulma Ortega (55’). Meanwhile, at the Santa Elena Sporting Complex, it was Gentle Touch and visiting Gladiators FC playing to a 1-1 draw. Julie Ponce (3’) struck first for Gentle Touch, but Karen Garcia (35’) equalized for the Gladiators. And at the MCC Grounds on Saturday night, it was Belize City FC, 1-0, over visiting Calcutta Strikers, on a goal by Janelle Gentle (32’). The only Sunday game was at the FFB Stadium, where home standing Jewel Fury dropped Sagitun Strikers from Independence, 2-1, with goals from Iris Centeno (17’) and Jenniha Scott (55’). Sagitun’s sole tally was by Erica Vallecillo (5’)

The tourism basket
Belize is putting too many of our economic eggs into the tourism basket. For sure tourism has been fast money, and tourism has appeared to be smart money for more than two decades now, but there are two fundamental problems with tourism. The first problem is that everybody else in the Caribbean is doing it, and some of the islands don’t have much of a choice, because they don’t have the bounty of natural resources which Belize possesses. Our Caribbean friends are completely committed to tourism, have been so for decades, and they are not only desperate to protect their product, they are more sophisticated than we are. The second problem is that tourism is an extremely fragile, delicate product: tourists can suddenly turn away from your destination because of unforeseen phenomena such as the recent ebola and zika scares.

From the Publisher
When I returned to Belize from college in June of 1968, no Belizean had ever attempted what I was setting out to do: write creatively as a profession. Zee Edgell, who became Belize’s first novelist with Beka Lamb, had been trained in London as a journalist and was editing The Reporter in 1968. It was a few years afterwards, in the 1970s, that she married, moved away from Belize, and decided to write creatively. My point is that, in 1968 I was going to be a pioneer of sorts. Family responsibilities soon forced me to take a job teaching English at Belize Technical College, but after the 1968/69 academic year, Technical and I parted ways. I was in the streets for two years before I taught at Wesley College during the 1971/72 academic year, and then I returned to the streets again, hard core.

Give lying a chance …
Dear Editor, It occurs to me that with Donald Trump in the White House and business as usual with GOB, new life has been breathed into the old adage, “Before telling the truth, give lying a chance!”

Under the shadows of Beverly Smith-Lopez!
The outstanding Belizean artist, dramatist and playwright of Belizean artistic renaissance of the 1970s, the late Beverly Smith-Lopez, is remembered here at Belizean Legends as a true social activist of Belize’s political past. When Belizean politics raged throughout a period of a monopoly-controlled radio station called “Radio Belize”, and a political climate that created a mood of distrust and fear among the masses of the Belizean people, Smith-Lopez’s monologues in poems like Sandra Coye’s “Genesis of Destruction” and in her voice in Evan X Hyde’s plays like, “Haad Time,” connected the dots for the masses of the Belizean people. The incomparable Smith-Lopez even in her immortality has reminded many of us Belizeans that it was the legendary Belizean drama group, “Square Peg Players”, with whom she appeared as a revolutionary player, was one of the only sources of education besides Amandala that Belizeans got outside of the classroom. They connected Belizean grassroots society to the dynamics of Belizean politics in their explosion on The Bliss Institute stage.

THE JOY OF FOOD: HOW MANY MEALS SHOULD WE EAT PER DAY?
Hello everyone. We’ve been discussing the topic of obesity and weight management for a few weeks. Today, we thought we’d divert a bit to look at meals and some foods that may be an encouragement in our weight-loss program. As I stated last week, food should be celebrated and enjoyed; not looked upon as the “boogeyman” of weight control, degenerative diseases and illnesses. After all, without the nourishment that food brings us for sustenance—not to mention the deliciousness of taste when food is consumed, and the aroma of smell when food is being cooked, what joy would there be in eating meals? To say the least, eating would be a pretty boring affair. No one would want to eat—then we’d have a different problem: malnutrition. However, it is because food tastes and smells so great that some of us may tend to overeat. Some people may, as I’ve stated, need guidance from their doctors, to find out if they have hormonal, chemical, or physiological imbalances that would need to be addressed and corrected, medically. However, for those who don’t, let’s put that good home-cooked food into perspective.

BROTHER SHABAZZ, THE LEGEND!
My brother, Nuri Akbar Estrada, pulled this classic from the BREDAA archives and shared with me today in one of the most touching moments about one of the most legendary Belizeans of all time, my brother in faith, struggle and friendship, the late Ismael Omar Shabazz. As yours truly looked deeply at the historic photo, my mind could not recall where and when it was taken, if it was not for the attached notes by Nuri who reminded me that it was taken in 1984 at the Felix Bilal Islamic Center on the historic Central Boulevard in South Central Los Angeles. The moment was not only historic in terms of this period in my life just two years after my embracing Islam and doing some dynamic work as a Belizean Muslim in the Los Angeles Muslims of Belize (LAMBS), but Central Boulevard in L.A. was an historic entertainment spot where “Angelenos” could hear the best in jazz and see some of the legendary African-American jazz musicians of the 1960s and 70s.

Social partners reject Barrow’s budget – Rocke saves the day!
The Barrow administration may need to do some rethinking of the 2017-2018 national budget despite receiving majority support in Parliament on Friday and in the Senate today, when Church senator, Pastor Ashley Rocke, tipped the vote in favor of the new budget, saving the day for the ruling United Democratic Party, which now holds a minority of 6 out of 13 seats in the Senate with the installation of the 13th Senator, who gave the budget “a thumbs down” during today’s budget debate. At around 7:30 tonight, the trade unions, private sector and NGO community voted against the budget, and so did the Opposition People’s United Party, for 6 votes against the budget. It was Rocke’s “yes” vote—the seventh in favor—which secured the passage of the budget.

Breaking Belize News

Work set to begin on Philip Goldson highway
The Government of Belize, through the Ministry of Works, today signed a construction contract with Cisco Construction Ltd. The contract is valued at BZ $20,899,031.40, to carry out Section B of the Fifth Road Project.

BSCAP hosts copyright workshop
The Belize Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (BSCAP) held a conference today to emphasize its push to promote the enforcement of copyright laws in Belize. BSCAP’s Board of Directors, including its CEO, Shyne Barrow, gathered at the Bliss Center for the Performing Arts, speaking on the need for legislative amendments to foster a culture of copyright compliance in Belize.

Pickup stolen from SJC campus
The Director of Operation at St. John’s College, Belize City reported that between the hours of 4:45 p.m. on Sunday the 26th of March, and 7:00 a.m. of Monday the 27th, someone stole a red two door cab-and-a-half Ford Ranger pickup truck.

Sleeping cop accidentally shot with own gun
Last night around 9:00, police visited the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) where officers saw Police Corporal Daniel Paul Lawrence, 40, attached to Strike Team South, suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest.

Hope Creek man dies in hit and run
On Sunday March, 26 2017 at about 2:10 a.m., police responded to a fatal accident which occurred between miles 8 and 9 on the Stann Creek Valley Road. Cops visited the Southern Regional Hospital where they saw Rogelio Perez, 61, a Guatemalan of Hope Creek Village, Stann Creek District who had died as a result of the accident.

Motorcycle driver and passenger charged for illegal gun
Last night at 9:15, police were on mobile patrol on Orchid Street, Santa Elena Town, when cops pursued a black Meilun motorcycle being driven at the time by Joel Sierra, 27, of Santa Elena Town and passenger, Kristy Westby, 24, of the same address. Upon reaching the intersection of Orchid Street and Mariana Gonzalez street, Sierra lost control of the motor cycle hitting the edge of a culvert.

Good Samaritan fatally stabbed while trying to help
On Sunday at 10:30 p.m., police visited Santa Cruz village where on arrival at Los Amigos bar, cops saw Ostin Zavala, 23, a Belizean construction worker of Bella Vista Village, Stann Creek District on the ground in front of the establishment suffering from a cut wound to his chest.

Sexual Health and Aging workshop to be held tomorrow
In celebration of Women’s month, the National Council on Ageing (NCA) with the support of the Western Health Region will be holding a one day Sexual Health and Ageing Workshop. The workshop is aimed at women 50 years and older. The event will be held tomorrow at the George Price Center in Belmopan starting at 8:30 a.m.

Guatemalan protest Belize and OAS
A video surfaced on social media a couple days ago showing some residents of Melchor de Mencos, Guatemala gathered at a protest near the Western border. In the video, the residents are shouting insults at Belizeans and at the Organization of American States (OAS) office in the area.

Leaked document illustrates that Guatemala will add Sarstoon to its official map
A leaked document to BBN shows that the Government of Guatemala is in the process of officially including the Sarstoon area on its official map. BBN secured the official document from Guatemala’s Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Budget passes despite 13th Senator
Despite being rejected by the Opposition and most of the Social Partner Senators, the Senate approved the 2017/2018 budget this week because the Church Senator, Ashley Rocke sided with the Government of Belize (GOB).

National Sports Council enhances field in Collet
The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture through the National Sports Council (NSC), the Eastern Police Division (South) and the Collet Community teamed up to enhance the safety of youths in the Faber’s road extension. A cleanup and lighting project was held. Lighting was installed at the basketball court and football field on Faber’s Road Extension.

AG participates in ACP-EU Joint parliamentary assembly in Belgium
Attorney General of Belize, Michael Peyrefitte, represented Belize at the 45th Session of the African, Caribbean, Pacific (ACP) Parliamentary Assembly and the Inter-sessional meetings of the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly (JPA) held from the 21st to 24th March 2017 in Brussels, Belgium at the European Parliament. Peyrefitte also represented Belize at the Caucus of CARIFORUM ...

PM Barrow to attend Summit of Heads of State and Government in Costa Rica
PM Barrow will be attending the 16th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Tuxtla Mechanism for Dialogue and Coordination in Costa Rica. The Tuxtla Mechanism is the main forum for political dialogue at the Meso-American level with objectives such as promoting high-level political dialogue...

Minor shoots dad who is a Police Corporal by accident
A police corporal was shot by his son by accident last night in Belize City. The victim has been identified as Police Corporal Daniel Lawrence. According to reports, Lawrence was sleeping when he son shot him on the chest.

Blogs

Visiting San Pedro Ambergris Caye While on vacation
San Pedro Ambergris Caye, Belize's is one of the largest island, well known for its water sports, scuba diving and Caribbean beaches. Off the eastern shore, the Belize Barrier Reef features famed snorkeling and dive sites such as the Hole Chan Marine Reserve, with an abundance of sea life, and the 124m-deep Great Blue Hole. The town of San Pedro is the island's gateway and center for sailing and reef exploration. The island has quite a sandy streets which are lined with wooden houses, seafood restaurants and beach bars. Hole Chan Marine Reserve is a channel in an offshore reef. It features dive sites with parrot-fish and moray eels, plus nurse sharks and stingrays at Shark Ray Alley. To the north, Bacalar Chico National Park protects wildlife and the Chac Balam Mayan ruins. Walking the Beach Path & Going for a Swim on a resort, or just swim on near a clean beach side.

Belizean Folklore: The Legends of Belize<
One of the best ways to get to know a local culture is through their folk tales, legends, and myths. Belize, with its unique blend of different cultures, has a truly colorful folklore history replete with many tall tales. Below are three different stories culled from Belize’s rich folklore:

6 Best Bespoke Tour Operators in Belize
Even though Belize is relatively a small country, it’s packed with many adventures and scuba diving tours. Belize is famous for its rainforests, Mayan ruins, Barrier Reef, and the awesome jaw dropping Blue Hole. Tourists come from all over the world for the diversification and friendliness offered by some fabulous tour companies. Here are 6 of the best bespoke tour operators in Belize:

10 of the Best Restaurants in Placencia Belize
Placencia isn’t known just for its gorgeous beaches, but it has some of the best restaurants in Belize. Placencia Village is a small village on Placencia peninsula and has become a popular vacation spot, not only because of its 12 miles of golden beaches but its exciting festivals and nightlife. Tourists flock to Placencia because of spectacular snorkeling, diving opportunities, and touring the Maya ruins, caves, and rainforests. You’ll find a wide variety of excellent restaurants from upscale eateries to shacks right on the beach.

International Sources

5 Major Changes In 2017 Coming to Hurricane Season Forecasts
As the 2017 Hurricane Season approaches the NHC has announced 5 major changes coming in 2017, with some of the improvements having been in the works for decades! 1.) The Issuing Of Watches, Warnings and Advisories Before Storms Even Form. The NHC will issue advisories for systems that have yet to develop but pose a threat of bringing tropical-storm-force or hurricane-force winds to land areas within 48 hours. These systems will be dubbed “potential tropical cyclones” by the NHC. Under previous longstanding NWS policy, it has not been permitted to issue a hurricane or tropical storm watch or warning until after a tropical cyclone had formed. Advances in forecasting over the past decade or so, however, now allow the confident prediction of tropical cyclone impacts while these systems are still in the developmental stage. For these land-threatening “potential tropical cyclones”, NHC will now issue the full suite of text, graphical, and watch/warning products that previously has only been issued for

Food and Travel Mexico Magazine lists Belize Lionfish Hunting as one of the Best Marine Experiences in the World
Belize is in the spotlight in the current edition of the prestigious Food and Travel Mexico Magazine . The article reads" Dive into the waters of the Belize Barrier Reef to capture a lionfish with a spear; Then bring it ashore and cook it on an outdoor campfire ...You do not need any scientific knowledge to join the lion fish disposal project; Just a PADI diving certificate and the desire to leave a positive mark on the destination"

MCC ON SONG IN BELIZE
We're well over halfway through the MCC tour to Mexico and Belize. It's safe to say that the MCC team were oozing confidence after a productive six days on and off the field in Mexico. A historical day trip to the Teotihuacan pyramids and a round of golf provided a welcome break from playing in the heat and altitude. With little time to rest (3:30am start the following day!) the team set off to compete in the annual Central American T20 championships in Belize.

John McAfee the movie: Johnny Depp to play controversial cybersecurity icon in blockbuster biopic
Hollywood star Johnny Depp is apparently top pick to star as controversial cybersecurity software pioneer John McAfee in a new film about the dramatic events that occurred in Belize from 2010 to 2012. According to entertainment news site Deadline, the Creative Artists Agency (CAA) is taking on a movie script with the working title King of the Jungle. Depp is attached to the project and will be playing the lead role of "computer virus magnate-turned-accused murderer John McAfee".

Mermaid costume-wearing swimmers in Texas make a splash
Angela Lorio paid for her first tail with a summer beekeeping job. Gold and shimmery, the new appendage was a bargain deal, a magical entree into the watery world of professional mermaiding for the Houston-area woman. Every year for about a week, a handful of dedicated merfolk fly down to Belize for a trip Russo likens to "mermaid summer camp." The island visit, which benefits a nonprofit high school in Belize, includes mermaid-themed movies, mermaid yoga and mermaid boot camp, along with hours of swimming in tail. "It's like a mermaid vacation on a paradise island," Russo said.

Art-inspired chefs' tasting and more: Notes from around town
Michael Touby held a tasting last week at Krankies Coffee for a line of Belizean hot sauces that he hopes to distribute in this country. Touby is working with Marie Sharp, who has been making hot sauce in Belize for more than 30 years. Touby has created a brand called Maya Mike that essentially would repackage Sharp’s recipes under the Maya Mike label for U.S. retail distribution. Sharp does have limited U.S. distribution under her own label now. But Touby said he wants to use his marketing expertise to widen distribution of these sauces. He also said he plans to use part of the profits to support farmer sustainability and children’s education in Belize.

Videos

March 28, 2017

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Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, West Vision (Cayo) and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials

The San Pedro Sun

San Pedro’s little ones shine at annual Festival of Arts
Under the theme ‘Born Talented, Born to Shine,’ the various San Pedro Town pre-schools convened at the San Pedro Lions Den on Thursday, March 23rd to showcase their creativity at the 2017 Festival of Arts. As part of Child Stimulation Month, the annual event saw 14 presentations filled with culture, nationalism, and much talent. A packed Den saw the participation of students from Little Angels, Ambergris Caye Elementary, San Pedro, ABC, San Pedro’s Shining Stars, Isla Bonita, and Brighter Tomorrow Pre-Schools.

Volunteers join SPTC in repainting Central Park benches
Volunteers from the non-governmental organization Projects Abroad joined members of The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) on Thursday, March 23rd to repaint the benches at Central Park. Most of the area around the park had been smudged with paint during the town’s festivities of ‘El Gran Carnaval de San Pedro’, and a touch-up was in order.

Wolfe’s Woofer: Counting
“All right,” I said. “What’s going on here?” “It looks like a traffic checkpoint,” Sherry answered. “There are two lines of cars but whichever one you get in looks like a long wait.” We were barely over the border going from Belize into Mexico and already at our first traffic stop. I pulled over, rolled down the window and settled down for a long wait. In the lane next to us a carload of tourists were arguing with the Mexican policeman. “Señor, this car is not legal,” the policeman was saying.

Remembering Cormac (Corry) Thomas McDermott
On December 11, 1982, Corry married Janet Knips. In 1985, they moved to San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize, and spent the majority of the next 35 years in Real Estate development. They were very active in the local community with philanthropic work, and especially dear to both of them was their work helping the less fortunate and the orphaned children of Belize. When not residing on the island, they also enjoyed living in Albert Lea, Minnesota, and Houston, Texas.

Ambergris Today

Caribeña Fuel Reopens Service Station After Hurricane Damage
On August 2016, Hurricane Earl caused great damage to many businesses on Ambergris Caye, especially to piers and structures along the beach side. Caribeña Fuels was one of the many that was completely washed away. It may have taken sometime but they are now back and ready for business. The new Pier and service station was officially inaugurated for business on Monday, March 13, 2017. It's great to see most of the businesses on the island bounce back after harmful storms.

Remembering Mr. Eiden Salazar Sr. May He Rest In Peace
Mr Eiden Salazar arrived at San Pedro from Mexico and as a child he roamed bare footed around San Pedro, fishing, swimming, collecting firewood for his mom's cooking, and attended the R.C. School of the island. As a teen Eiden was a fisherman and later married Neydy Alamilla, a union that brought forth four children, Emely Marisa, Jenny, and Eiden Salazar Jr. Eiden then became a businessman and operated Jenny's Store, a movie place and restaurant. Along with his son, Eiden Jr. he also made possible the first radio station on the Island, Reef Radio. A humble man with a wide smile and a good sense of humor, Eiden enjoyed a good life and was a positive role model to his family and community.

2017 Science Fair At San Pedro High School
San Pedro High School held its annual science fair with the theme "Knowledge is Power" on Friday, March 24th, 2017 at the R. Angel Nunez Auditorium. Students got the chance to portray what they have learnt using simple products such as fruits, water and other household items to create them into something amazing. Those who attended where surprised by the amount of knowledge and dedication students put into their project. Others couldnt resist noticing that some of these ideas are really good and would benefit San Pedro if they were to be implemented by the town council. Good Job SPHS!!!

San Pedro Expands Blood Drives To Caye Caulker
The Belize Red Cross San Pedro Branch was pleased to facilitate training for the first blood drive (that they know of) on Caye Caulker. Belize Blood Services Nurse Doreen Madrill and Juan Rocha, Lab Tech, both confirmed in the 13 and 14 years that they have been working for Belize Blood Services that they have never done a blood drive there. The monumental event was carried out March 4th with the help of Noelle Gray, Nurse Chris Diego, island residents and the support of local San Pedro and Caye Caulker businesses. The blood drive was a huge success. A strong show of community support made it clear that Caye Caulker Islanders are huge advocates for blood collection. They came out steadily all day long and donated a total of 21 pints by 3:00 pm.

Misc Belizean Sources

Shop at Saga Stella & Dot Trunk Show
Shopping with Stella & Dot is not only fun, but until April 15, 2017, proceeds from this exclusive Saga Trunk Show will benefit the dogs and cats that call Saga Humane Society home. Can't find that perfect gift for your best friend? Need something great for Mother's Day? Graduation is just around the corner. Why not find that perfect something right now and save a life. The shelter is full and the cattery is overcrowded, but we take them all, heal them and now must find them forever homes. Your purchase will help us do just that.

SBDC Workshop: Importance of Planning for the Future
Presented by: Ms. Monique Usher, Post/Teaching Description: Business Advisor SBDCBelize, Beltraide. Location: Beltraide Conference Room, 14 Orchid Garden Street, , Belize City Workshop Date: March 30th, 2017. Time: 9am to 12noon. Through this workshop you will understand how to develop your strategic plan You will also learn tips in how to sustain your strategic plan, avoid running strategic meetings and maintain energy in your planning process (and life). Cost: $30.00. Includes snacks and refreshments.

Energy Information Management and Belizean Energy Information Workshop
The Ministry of Public Service, Energy and Public Utilities (MPSEPU) in partnership with the Latin American Energy Organization (OLADE) will be hosting an Energy Information Management and Belizean Energy Information System workshop on March 28th – 31st, 2017. This event will be hosted at the Belize Biltmore Plaza in Belize City, commencing on Tuesday, March 28th at 8:30 a.m. The objective of the Energy Information Management system is to provide data to support the evidence basis to advance the Ministry’s strategy to expand renewable sources of energy and reduce the country’s dependence on imported refined fossil fuels.

Beach Volleyball Tournament April 15 & 16
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Watercolour paintings are currently on display as part of the Arte con Voz de Mujer Exhibit
Showcasing the works of 11 female artists from Corozal. Visit the Corozal House of Culture to view more.

Caye Caulker Lionfish Derby Results!

Hon. Edmond Castro and Hon. Godwin Hulse Main Speakers at Maskall Village Fair
Main speakers at the first ever Agriculture and Trade Fair in the village of Maskall yesterday, March 26th, were Minister of Transport and National Emergency Management Hon. Edmond Castro, who is also Area Representative for Belize Rural North; and Minister of Agriculture Hon Godwin Hulse. In his address at the opening ceremony, Minister of Agriculture Hon. Godwin Hulse remarked that the event was timely, and he said their newly adopted motto at the Ministry of Agriculture, “LET’S GET GROWING”, fits well with Belize Rural North Area Representative Hon. Edmond Castro’s mission which is, “CLEAR THE LAND”. Put them together, he explained, and you have a full plan of action: “CLEAR THE LAND and LET’S GET GROWING.”

Attorney General Participates in ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly at the European Parliament in Brussels
Senator and Attorney General of Belize, the Honourable Michael Peyrefitte, represented Belize at the 45th Session of the African, Caribbean, Pacific (ACP) Parliamentary Assembly and the Inter-sessional meetings of the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly (JPA) held from the 21st to 24th March 2017 in Brussels, Belgium at the European Parliament. The Honourable Senator also represented Belize at the Caucus of CARIFORUM parliamentarians and Brussels-based Ambassadors held on 24th March, and hosted by the Vice President and Foreign Minister of Guyana, the Honourable Carl B. Greenidge.

The National Sports Council Contributes to Citizen Security through Sports Development
The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture through the National Sports Council (NSC), the Eastern Police Division (South) and the Collet Community teamed up to enhance the safety of youth who wish to participate in sporting and recreational activities. Through a cleanup and lighting project, the residents of Faber’s Road Extension are now enjoying their basketball court and football field. The National Sports Council assisted in installing lights on the fields to promote healthy evening and night recreational activities. Additionally, the NSC embarked on an extensive cutting and cleanup of the football field, the basketball court and surrounding areas. The basketball court will be resurfaced over the next few weeks.

PACT Annual Investment Award Ceremony
Today PACT held it's Annual Investment Award Ceremony with this year's recipients being awarded under two new categories of investment funding - 'Single' and 'Multiple'. A total of BZ 1.1 million dollars was awarded through 5 grants. Recipients included the Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development - Belize, Southern Environmental Association, PROGRAMME FOR BELIZE, the Association of Protected Areas Management Organizations - APAMO and Ya'axché Conservation Trust, alongside the Belize Audubon Society and the Toledo Institute for Development and Environment (TIDE). Congratulations to all grantees! The Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) extends its warmest wishes to all the investment award recipients and wishes them every success in the execution of their projects!

UTSA President's Distinguished Achievement Award
Congratulations to Dr. Jason Yaeger, MVAP project director, for receiving the UTSA President's Distinguished Achievement Award for Advancing Globalization! This award recognizes one faculty member per year who has significantly expanded UTSA’s involvement in the global arena.

SACD’s Executive Director featured on MAR Leadership Programme
Congratulations to SACD’s Executive Director for being featured on last week’s MAR Leadership programme. Mr.Verde, has had an everlasting dedication to ensure that his fellow community people recognize that it is only through sustainable practices that there can be hope towards a better future. His passion for conservation and his community, are his drive to one day inspire enough people to join his belief. SACD, is proud to have him as it’s Executive Director.

APRIL FOOL's COMEDY SHOW IN SAN PEDRO
It's time to laugh once again. It has been a year since our last comedy show, so this year we're stepping it up with an even bigger lineup of local performers! That's right! A bunch of bozos you know and hopefully love will be performing for you this Saturday, including: Date: Saturday April 1st, 2017 Time: 7:30 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. Place: Sandbar Location: San Pedro, Ambergris Caye BRAD REEDER (Comedy Central, Last Comic Standing) BEN POPIK ROB BURROWS JOE CHUNG MICHAEL TAYLOR JAKE FROM STATE FARM It's going to be a great show for a great cause! Tickets are $25bz, and all ticket proceeds go to benefit the Hope Haven Childrens Home. Tickets will be available starting Wednesday at Sandbar, The Truck Stop, and Crazy Canucks. Tickets will likely sell out, so get yours as soon as you can! See you Saturday!

STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) program
Being smart is cool! On Friday, we had our second STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) program at the Embassy. We were delighted to host 12 female students from Belmopan Comprehensive School. Charge d’Affairs Adrienne Galanek welcomed the group and inspired them to study STEAM subjects and to consider careers in STEAM. Megan, the Embassy's Facility Manager, and Heidi, our Electrical Engineer, encouraged students to embrace various fields of STEAM and took them on a tour of the Embassy, explaining the science and technology behind our air conditioning and water treatment systems, xeriscaping, and our new solar panels! An Embassy representative also spoke to the students about cyber violence and the importance of being vigilant on social media. Remember, once you post or share a picture online, it will be there FOREVER! Be smart, be safe, be STEAM!

Honouring Tomasa Novelo de Paz
In celebration of Woman's month, we invite you to celebrate the life of Tomasa Novelo de Paz. An outstanding woman who opted to share her gift and skills to benefit her community. Friday, March 31 at 7 PM - 11 PM. San Pedro House of Culture.

Channel 7

One of the Most Violent 72 Hours in History
The past 72 hours have been one of the most violent and traumatic periods in Belize's history. There were 8 murders, 5 of them in the city, and one of them right at the second biggest police station in the country. More than that, three persons lost their lives in traffic fatalities. Indeed, it's a dizzying panorama of violence, and tonight the community, the police and the media are still grappling with it. The victims range from a 16 year old in Cristo Rey, Cayo, to a 59 year old in Belize City, and, so far, only one arrest has been reported, and that is of the man who stabbed a police officer to death right in front of a whole police station - full of cops who didn't have guns, so they had to knock him out with a cement block. Indeed, it leaves your head spinning - and the unprecedented rash of violence forced the Commissioner of Police and his senior commanders in the city to hold a press briefing. The main thing the media wanted to know was if the police have a plan to ensure greater public safety. Here's how the Commissioner described the current situation and the police response:

Weekend of Violence Begins with Double Murder for Double-Riders
And we start our coverage of all these murders with the first two that occurred in the city. It happened early on Saturday morning when two men - one 34 and the other 59, were double riding on a bicycle on Kelly Street. Near to Chon Saan Restaurant, a white car pulled up and opened fire with two guns. Both men were shot twice in the head, and they both died on the spot - strewn across the street with a bicycle between them. It's a very unusual double murder and Daniel Ortiz went looking for answers today:... Daniel Ortiz reporting: Pain, loss, and disbelief...these were but some of the complex emotions that the families of 34-year-old Byron Marshall and 59-year-old Nelson Noralez were struggling with today when we got a chance to speak with them. They were still trying to understand what prompted their double murder on Saturday night.

12 Hours Later, Another Murder
About 13 hours later, Belize City police had to return to that very same city block to take control of another murder scene, and this one was in a yard right down the street from where the double murder happened. That's where they found 30 year-old Randy Green, who lives nearby, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. The police tried to rush him to the KHMH to get medical treatment, but he died while in transit. Today, the police told us what they've been able to find out so far about Green's fatal shooting: ACP Dezerie Phillips - OC, Eastern Division North: "The second incident occurred on Saturday March 25th around 3:45pm, where one, Randy Green was fatally shot whilst inside a carpentry shop on Freetown Road. Investigations reveal that Green was inside this compound along with other persons when a gun man walk into the compound and fire shots fatally wounding him."

Senate Debates But Cannot Delay Budget, Because GOB Has Church Support
So far we've told you about three of the weekend's eight murders. We'll tell you about the other five shortly, but first we'll cut to the senate. Today the upper house met with 13 senators for the first time. They had a very full day of business, and at this hour the meeting is still ongoing. But the center price was the budget debate, and here are a few clips from that back and forth:... At this time, the budget debate is winding up. The Senate still has 11 bills to discuss after that, so the meeting will be going for a while. But, the big question is will the Senate be able to use its non government majority to delay the budget? It would be a first, but as you saw the church senator supports the budget giving the government six, one more to make it 7 in support - so it will pass.

Still Fighting Over Superbond, Even In Senate
And the Senate also had a robust debate on the Superbond. Parliament has to approve the Amendment to the terms and conditions off the bonds - and here ar multiple sides of that argument:…

AG Says He Did It For Free, Not For Fees
And while they differ on the bond: the PUP and the UDP seem to agree on one thing: the fees related to the negotiating the bond is a prickly issue. The Attorney General bristled at just the mention of it:..

Nagle-Gazing
And one more interesting bit is the information that came out of today's sitting about Belize's Ambassador to Vienna, Joel Nagle. PUP Shadow minister for Foreign Affairs Eamon Courtenay says it is an international embarrassment:…

Two Killings In A Small Stann Creek Village
We report now on the two weekend murders which happened in the Stann Creek Village of Santa Cruz. The first one is believed to have happened sometime between late Friday and early Saturday morning. That's when the police found 55 year-old Guatemalan Roberto De Leon, who appeared to have been robbed, and beaten to death. This morning, the officer in charge of the National Crimes Investigation Branch gave us an update on what the investigators know so far: ACP Joseph Myvette, Head - NCIB: "Roberto De Leon, 55 years old farmer was found motionless outside his vehicle on an unnamed street just behind the football field. Initial police investigation revealed that Mr. De Leon had left his home sometime around 4pm enroute to the orange factory to deliver oranges in Pomona."

Santa Cruz Stabbing
Police also had to return to that village early this morning when they found the body of Belizean Austin Zavala, who had been stabbed to death. Assistance Police Commissioner Myvette also discussed that one: ACP Joseph Myvette, Head - NCIB: "The third murder was that of Austin Zavala, 23 years old, Belizean of Santa Cruz Village, Stann Creek District. Sometime around 2am this morning, police responded to a bar in the village of Santa Cruz where the lifeless body of Austin Zavala was seen with one single stab wound to the left side of his chest."

Cristo Rey Teenager Killed, Possibly By Relative
The violent weekend's youngest victim is a 16 year old Guatemalan. At 6:30 on Saturday in Cristo Rey Village, Rosendo Pop had a dispute with 18 year old Victor Galleano, both boys are said to be related. Reports are that the dispute was over a girl. But police could not confirm that at this point. Galleano reportedly stabbed Pop to the chest. He died on the spot. Police have since detained Galleano pending charges. Here is what police had to say on this case. ACP Joseph Myvette, Head - NCIB: "Sometime around 6:30pm on Saturday 25 March, police responded to an incident in Cristo Rey Village, where one Rosendo Pop 16 years old, Guatemalan unemployed, was seen with one single stab wound to the left side of his chest." "Initial police investigation revealed that the deceased along with a group of persons were engaged in an altercation with one Victor Galeano. As a consequence the deceased is allege to have punch Galeano and Galeano responded by stabbing the deceased. Galeano is in police custody pending investigation."

Cop Killed By Civilian In Country’s Biggest Police Station
As we told you at the top of the news, it's been the most murderous weekend in memory. But perhaps the most incredible murder is 43 year old PC Nervin Locke, known as Marvin. He was killed right at the Raccoon Street police station, right in front of a whole station full of officers. Julie Arias, Mother: "From he is growing up he always says to me, mom I want to be a policeman so I said well son you have to work into it, it's not just saying you are going to be a police man you have to work to be a policeman." Courtney Weatherburne reporting: And he did work at it. PC Nervin Locke realized his goal of becoming a police officer. He served for over 15 years and like his colleagues, he got his fair share of working at various check points and patrolling regularly. But yesterday afternoon around 3:00, as he was coming off his shift, PC Locke was murdered right in front of the Raccoon Street police station. A civillian, Marcial Toledo came looking for PC Locke at the station while he was out on patrol. Toledo waited at the station until Locke returned. But it wasn't any friendly visit.

Cop Killer Speechless In Court
And this afternoon, 47 year old Marcial Toledo, a Honduran national was arraigned for the murder of Marvin Locke. When Toledo arrived at court, the two CIB officers escorting him had to physically take him out of the police vehicle because he refused to move. Due to his head and facial injuries as seen in this footage, he appeared barely able to walk. The labourer of Holy Emmanuel Street was taken before Chief Magistrate, Anne Marie Smith and read a single charge of murder. Inside the court room, he didn't say a word. Chief Magistrate, Anne Marie Smith took note of his unresponsive behaviour, so she asked him several questions.

Man Killed At The same Place His Brother Was Murdered
A 43 year old Selvin Bahadur was gunned down and killed in front of his house on Jones Street, 1 year after his younger brother Micheal Lopez was killed in that same spot. It is very raw and wounding for the family as another loved ones'd blood is shed right at their front steps. It happened last night after 10:00 and Bahadur's mother and sister told us what they know. Merleen King, Mother: "I was in my bed last night when my common-law-husband told me that he heard a gunshot." Courtney Weatherburne, 7News: "What time was this?" Merleen King, Mother: "About 10:05pm and he said that it sounded close to the house and I told him to hurry get up and let us see who it is. When we open the door, we saw a police vehicle out there and my neighbor called to me and told me that it's your son out there on the ground. I said "oh my God, my next son by the same spot." I didn't believe it and so I ran out. I was on there on the street, then the police came around and my friends came to assist me. I never believe my son again they took away from me."

Pinks Alley, In The Aftermath Of a Fire Disaster
When we left you on Friday night, the news was about the massive, raging fire in Pink's Alley which left so many homeless. Well, this weekend it became an emergency response effort with so many families and persons homeless. Alex Courtenay documented the efforts to shelter and house these persons:...

Caye Caulker Village Center Was In Flames
And Pink's Alley wasn't the only fire on Friday. At almost the same time the fire started in the Alley, the Caye Caulker Fire Department responded to a house ablaze near the police station. Here's what the fire department's operation officer, Benesford Matura, told us about the investigation so far... Benisford Matura, Ops., Ofc - Fire Dept.: "While we were out at that fire, the officer in charge of Caye Caulker call me at approximately 4:45, which was like 15 minutes into the Pink's Alley fire, there was a fire in Caye Caulker a little ways across from the police station. It's a two story structure, wooden first floor and the ground floor in concrete. It was an apartment building." "The wooden section of the building got gutted and so a part of the cement structure was safe."

Zericote Building Ablaze
There was one more fire in the Belize District this weekend. This time a wooden structure on Zericote Street was engulfed in flames. Matura also told us about the Department's quick response to that fire...

Fire Department Calls For A More Vigilant Public
And after so much loss to fire, Matura made an appeal to the public, asking that all citizens do their best to ensure that they do not contribute to easily preventable fires...

Police and Media Make Nice, For A Day
On tonight's newscast, you've seen a lot on the police press conference that Commissioner Allen Whylie hosted. It was the first one in months by any senior officer. That's after Whylie changed the way that his commanding officers countrywide are allowed to interface with the media. When he first became the commissioner he was the first top cop to authorize the officers in charge of the different formations to give informed briefings on different criminal matters, and what the police are doing to keep things under control. Then, early this year, he decided to go in the completely opposite direction, when he ordered that all information be filtered through the Police Press Office. Two weeks ago, the forced the media to boycott the department, since the free flow of information has been cut off. Today, the press asked him for a comment on the rift, and here's what he had to say:

Cops Still Piecing Together Body Parts Case
At today's press briefing, police also gave an update on those dismembered body parts found in the Iguana Creek last week. As we told you on one day, police found arms and legs which had been cut in half and stuffed in a sack, and on the second day, they found a torso. Here's what the cops said today:.. ACP Joseph Myvette, Head - NCIB: "In reference to the human body parts that was found earlier last week near the Iguana Creek Bridge, the police investigation still continues into this matter. Post mortem done on the remains of what were found was determine to be that of a female hispanic of stocky built and the post mortem also revealed that she died from 7 stab wounds."

Woman Constable, Mother Of Three Killed In Accident
A female police officer was killed in a traffic accident on Friday night. It happened just outside Punta Gorda town where WPC Jennifer Hibberd was driving an SUV. Between miles 97 and 98 on the Southern Highway, in the village of Cattle Landing she collided head on into a Dodge Intrepid. Police found Hibberd on the road dead. The other driver, Liston Armstrong had also been thrown from his vehicle.

Motorbike Rider Is Killed In Ranchito
And form far south to far north, there was one other fatal road accident this weekend. On Saturday Margarito Matus was driving from Orange Walk to Corozal, and upon reaching Ranchito Village between miles 83 and 84 he collided head on with Edwardo Sanker, who was travelling in the opposite direction on a motorcycle. According to police reports, Sanker died upon impact. Matus was later served with a Notice of Intended Prosecution.

Hit And Run Victim Still Unknown
Police responded to another road traffic accident on Sunday, this time in Stann Creek. Police found an injured man, the victim of a hit and run, near the ITVET compound in Hope Creek. Police quickly took the man to the Southern Regional Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Police have yet to identify the victim.

Senate History?
And in one more bit of news tonight, history may have been made in the senate 10 minutes ago. The PACT Bill was voted down, 7 against, 6 in favor. We'll have more on this tomorrow.

Forget Me Not Festival
And after all that heavy news tonight, we leave you with some highlites of the weekend's pree school festival of the arts. Enjoy and join us back here tomorrow.

Channel 5

8 Murders in Wild Weekend; Cop Stabbed to Death at Police Headquarters in Belize City
A series of murders over the weekend has shocked a nation long since used to hearing about wanton, senseless violence. The past weekend was grim with bloodshed in the Belize, [...]

A Double Murder on Kelly Street
The senseless string of murders in the city, however, started early on Saturday morning in an area heavily-trafficked.  Just after two o’clock, an elderly resident accompanied by a thirty-six-year-old were [...]

Randy Green, Formerly Accused of Joshua Abraham Murder, is Shot Dead
Kelly Street is located off a busy intersection in the city; it was the venue of yet another murder in broad daylight on Saturday afternoon.  Randy Green, who was recently [...]

Selvin Bahadur Gunned Down on Jones Street
As the weekend came to a close, the fifth murder for the Old Capital occurred on Jones Street where a forty-year-old was gunned down in front of his gate. Selvin [...]

3 Murders in Santa Cruz, Stann Creek & Cristo Rey, Cayo
Aside from the five murders in Belize City, there were two others in Santa Cruz, Stann Creek and one in Cristo Rey, Cayo District. In the south, Guatemalan farmer Roberto [...]

Counting the Cost of “Worst” Majestic Alley Fire
On Friday evening, a fire destroyed four buildings in the congested Majestic Alley including the signature “long barracks,” which has eight units and houses as many as thirty people.  When [...]

Fire Service Has No Answers
So, what caused the fire that wiped out the Barracks and left more than fifty people without a roof over their heads?  There is plenty speculation as to what caused [...]

Opposition Charges Fire Department’s Budget Should Not Have Been Cut
Two weeks ago, the PM tabled the 2017/2018 Budget. And while debate has been fast and furious on many issues, one that perhaps was lost in the marathon debate was [...]

Opposition Leader Makes Bipartisan Call for Help
Today, Fort George Area Representative Said Musa was joined by Leader of the Opposition John Briceño in appealing for assistance for fire victims.  Briceño made a special call on Government [...]

Fire, Fire Everywhere! Zericote Street Home Targeted
There were three other fires over the weekend. On Sunday night, a fire took out a small business on Zericote Street in the city. Sometime after seven-thirty p.m., smoke and [...]

Apartment Goes Down in Flames in Caye Caulker
As Majestic Alley was ablaze, a fire also erupted on Caye Caulker. A wooden and concrete structure went up in flames just after four-thirty p.m.  The fire department was assisted [...]

Trash Fire Takes out Ladyville Home
A small wooden home in Ladyville was also wiped out after a fire spread from burning trash across the street. The embers of that small fire lit near some bushes [...]

Police Stuck on Stabbed, Dismembered Blackman Eddy Torso
The dismembered body of a woman found in a crocus sack last week near the Iguana Creek Bridge in Black Man Eddy Village remains unidentified.  The gruesome discovery of the [...]

Police Mourn Toledo Woman Officer’s Tragic Traffic Death
There were three fatal road traffic accidents reported over the weekend, including one in the Toledo District which claimed the life of a Woman Police Constable.  Thirty-two-year-old Jennifer Hibberd was [...]

At Senate, Lizarraga Questions Government Spending for Budget
Just before seven-fifteen this evening, a division was called in the Senate on the 2017-2018 General Revenue and Appropriation Bill. The Bill, also known as the Budget, passed by a [...]

Eamon Courtenay: Budget has Belize “Bouncing Backwards”
As a Senior Counsel, Eamon Courtenay has faced his share of scary situations. So what would cause the Opposition’s top Senator to “faint away,” as he claimed during this morning’s [...]

No Alternative Facts: Courtenay Says G.O.B. Raised Taxes
Close to eighty million dollars has been claimed by the Government in additional tax measures under the new Budget, affecting everything from electricity to fuel to the environment. And while [...]

Aldo Salazar Says Belize is Better Off Compared to Caribbean Neighbours
Responding for the Government, Senator Aldo Salazar made the point that Belize is in the same boat as the rest of the region, where Jamaica passed massive tax increases and [...]

Business Senator Asks Belizeans to Reflect on “Urban Terrorism”
The first matter discussed in the Senate this morning was not the Budget or even the Superbond – those came later. Business Senator Mark Lizarraga opened the sitting with a [...]

ComPol Plans Media Meeting – Standoff over Access Persists
The impasse between the media and the Belize Police Department persists, despite a press briefing being called this morning in the wake of an exceptionally bloody weekend.  While the media [...]

Prime Minister Hails Standard and Poor’s Taking Belize Out of Default
After a marathon two days of discussion and recrimination, Prime Minister Dean Barrow wrapped up the House of Representatives’ debate on the General Revenue and Appropriation Bill just before eleven [...]

P.M. Barrow Talks Record after 10 Years in Government
Belize is hardly alone regionally in economic malaise; many nations in the Caribbean region, whose governments are presently submitting budgets for consideration similar to others, have had similar sluggish economic [...]

Sports Monday Takes Stock of Sporting Weekend
Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.   [Highlights of the weekend sporting activities....]

CTV3

Another Fatality On The Philip Goldson Highway
Xaibe resident Eduardo Sanker was killed instantly when the Suzuki motorcycle he travelled on slammed into an incoming Toyota 4Runner along mile 81 on the Phillip Goldson Highway on Saturday, March 25th in Ranchito Village in Corozal. Sanker was travelling in the direction of San Joaquin Village, when he reportedly lost control of his motorbike, causing it to careen towards the incoming SUV. The impact was severe. The motorbike was smashed on impact and Sanker’s body lay motionless and lifeless on the road.

Vehicle Flips Over At The Entrance Of Town
And this afternoon, in an area not too far away on the Phillip Goldson Highway, there was another traffic mishap. Fortunately, this one was not fatal and the driver escaped with as much as a scare. It involved this Chevrolet Malibu car which slipped off the road along a dangerous curve entering Corozal Town and flipped over, landing upside down near the sea coast. The Chevy vehicle with Belmopan license plate C07588 suffered damages to the body. Following the accident, the driver, an unidentified person of Chinese nationality, crawled out to safety.

PM Closes Budget Debate
The second day of the 2017-2018 Budget Debate before the 31-member House of Representatives went until almost 11:30 on Friday night. Prime Minister Dean Barrow was only present for an hour and arrived at 8, then left, and arrived once more at 10:13pm when Cayo South representative Julius Espat was ending his presentation. The PM then closed the day’s proceedings with a 36 minute statement in which he focused his complaints on the Opposition leader Hon. John Briceno. As expected, the PM could not help himself on going into the gutter.

Senate Debates Budget, Senator Salas Votes Against The Financial Plan
On Thursday and Friday of last week, members of the House of Representatives, took turns to debate the national budget and today, it was the turn of the 13 senators to do so. While Church Senator Ashley Rocke supported the budget alongside the UDP senators, the 13th Senator, Osmany Salas did not stating that the NGO community cannot support a budget that is not well prepared. And as expected, the opposition did not support the budget either.

More Gifts For Concepcion RC School
All indications are that the Rotary was in a gift-giving mood on Saturday. In addition to initiating the project on the compound, Rotary member Fred Orio handed over a new laptop and printer to the school Principal. School teacher Adriano Ramirez said that now that they have Centaur Express Internet, the laptop will be of great benefit to the students.

Concepcion RC Goes Green
The idea of bathroom facilities that use minimal amounts of water may be a worthy one for communities that find access to water a serious challenge. Here in the north a number of communities have limited water access, and there are those such as Copper Bank that are facing water shortage. Rotary Club’s Ron Zurlinden suggested that those schools could consider projects like the one in Concepcion to maximise the use of their resources.

Breaking Belize News

Is Corruption Costing Lives On Our Highways?
By Charles Leslie Jr. I believe that the sale of drivers licenses (corruption) to incompetent drivers, is a major contributing factor to the ever increasing road traffic injuries and deaths on Belize’s highways. On March 26th, 1934 the United Kingdom established its first driving test to test drivers for competence. UK residents had to take this test in order to obtain a full Great Britain or Northern Ireland (car) driving license or to add additional full entitlements to an existing one.

Senator Salas votes against 2017/2018 budget; Says both PUP and UDP must take blame for country’s economic woes
Both major political parties must take the blame for the economic situation that Belize is in,” Osmany Salas, Senator for the NGO’s told the Senate today. Salas expressed his disappointment in the preparation of the budget and said that government must team up with the opposition to find a solution to the economic problems that Belize faces.

Santa Cruz resident is weekend’s eight murder victim
Family members confirmed to BBN a short while ago that their loved one died at the Southern Regional Hospital. BBN had earlier reported that Sabala was socializing at Los Amigos Restaurant and Bar in Santa Cruz village in the Stann Creek district. He exited the bar just around midnight on Sunday to do an errand and while returning to the bar, he was stabbed by an assailant.

Murder, now stabbing in Santa Cruz village
Following Friday night’s murder of 55 year old Roberto Deleon, the quiet village of Santa Cruz in the Stann Creek district is the scene of another major crime. BBN has confirmed that a 23 year old man was socializing at Los Amigos restaurant and bar in Santa Cruz village.

Police brutality a major human right issue in Belize, U.S. State Department says
Police brutality is Belize’s most pressing human rights issue, according to the US Department of State’s (USDS) Country Report on Human Rights practices 2016. “The most important human rights abuses included the use of excessive force by security forces (especially the police),” the USDS said. “The government occasionally ignored reports of police abuse, delayed action, failed to take disciplinary action, or transferred accused officers to other areas within their department”

It is now time to call it urban terrorism.
I’m not given (much) to hyperbole, except in praising the beauty of our Jewel…but when it comes to her dirty, nasty underbelly, I try to keep a clear-eyed perspective. For weeks I have been fearing that some thug, criminal or gangbanging baby shatta would have an attempt at one of the many bored and frustrated police officers who are forced to sit under makeshift and tattered tents behind crude “Police Check Point” signs propped up with old planks and cement blocks.

Police confirm details of Saturday morning double murder
On Saturday morning around 2:30, police responded to a shooting incident at the corner of Matron Roberts and Kelly Street where cops saw Byron Marshall, 54, of a Lovely Lane address and Nelson Noralez, 24, from Pomona, Stann Creek suffering from multiple gunshot wounds […]

Police confirm fatal PG accident
newsOn Friday, at about 11:16 p.m. police responded to a road traffic accident in Cattle Landing village, Toledo on the Southern highway between miles 97 and 98 where cops saw a black Dodge Intrepid car in the middle of the highway with extensive damages […]

Business senator bashes budget
In his presentation today, Senator for the Business sector, Mark Lizarraga said the bill that will be passed today allows government to borrow more money, further increasing Belize’s national debt. In the draft budget for the fiscal year 2017-2018, $100 million will be financed (borrowed) […]

Peyrefitte deflects criticism in the Senate
Today at the Senate sitting, Senator Valerie Woods questioned the money paid to local advisors for costs of restructuring the Superbond. In response, Senator Michael Peyreffite, stated that Woods was referring to him and that he did not collect any money from restructuring the […]

Ministry of Home Affairs extends deepest sympathies to family of PC Marvin Locke
The Minister of State, Elodio Aragon Jr. and the Ministry of Home Affairs extends deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Police Constable Marvin Locke Sr. who was senselessly killed in the line of duty yesterday afternoon in Belize City. May he rest […]

Honduran national kills police officer in Belize City
Yesterday afternoon around 3:25, acting upon information received of a stabbing incident, police visited the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) where they saw Police Constable #844 Marvin Locke of Belize City suffering from multiple stab wounds to the chest and abdomen area. Investigation reveals […]

FCD says OAS SecGeneral Chiquibul fly-over wasn’t enough
On March 16, 2017, BBN reported that OAS Secretary General, Luis Almagro along with Guatemalan Foreign Minister, Carlos Raul Morales visited the “ Adjacency Zone” between Guatemala and Belize. During his trip, Almagro visited the Guatemalan communities that are along the Adjacency Zone between […]

Guatemalans continue to exploit the Chiquibul National Park
This morning, on Channel 5 ‘Open your eyes’ programme, Raphael Manzanero, Executive Director for Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD) stated that the Chiquibul National Park continues to be exploited by Guatemalans. “For many years, Guatemalan poachers have been entering into Belize’s protected areas and […]

Belize, Between a Rocke and a Hard Place
The Senate is now a 13-member part of the Parliament of Belize thanks to the agitation of the Belize National Teachers Union, who forced the government; through industrial action; to enact legislation to increase its number from 12 late last year, adding one seat […]

One detained in connection with stabbing in Cristo Rey Village, Cayo District
On Saturday night around 6:30, police visited Cristo Rey Village in the Cayo District where they saw 16-year-old Guatemalan Rosendo Pop with a stab to the chest area. Pop was taken to the San Ignacio Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Police […]

Blogs

Fish Balls – The El Fogon way!
One delicious treat that I enjoy (aside from their Belikin Beer Battered Fried Chicken which are only available on Tuesday’s), are the delicious fish balls. Yes…fish balls! These tasty treats are deep fried to a golden brown, and each bite is full of flavor. When I asked Olive to kindly share her recipe, in case I have a hankering for it and can’t get to the restaurant, she was more than happy to share. See what I mean about love? So, to our friends near and far, who may be missing a little bit of delicious El Fogon, you can try this at home. It won’t have the same smoky, fogon touch, but it is close enough till it’s time to sit at the picnic tables and enjoy a few in person, with a side of sweet lime juice, or an ice cold Belikin, of course!

Back in the day (1986) Atlantis was on Ambergris Caye
One Friday evening as we prepared to stroll off for dinner, Alberto was nowhere to be found. We searched and waited a bit and finally left for dinner. We went to the “new” Chinese restaurant, where we had never eaten before. (I can still taste their delicious lobster dish)! About 5 minutes after we ordered, here comes Alberto walking into the restaurant and slides into the booth next to me. Our mouths dropped as we had no idea how he found us. We’d never eaten there before, let alone taken him there. We proceeded to eat our lovely meal and finished our night. The next day as the three of us were walking down Front Street, Alberto proudly riding high on Franc’s shoulders, he pointed down to the sand street and said “mira, Franc”. We looked and there, sure enough, was Franc’s tire tread sandal print forever etched into the street until the next rain. We looked at each other and both said…”that’s how he found us last night…he tracked us!”.

Why should you visit Caye Caulker on your next bucket list vacation
Caye Caulker is a small Caribbean island off the coast of Belize. It’s divided by a narrow channel called the Split, where there’s a bar and a sandy beach. To the south is the island’s only settlement, known as Caye Caulker Village. The north of the island is home to dense mangrove forest and diverse birdlife, protected by a forest reserve. The Caye Caulker Marine Reserve has dive sites on the Belize Barrier Reef. Caye Caulker is a tranquil paradise in Belize that is quickly making a name for itself as one of the top island destinations for budget travel in the Caribbean. The vibe on this rustic island is completely laid back and relaxed in true “island life” fashion. There are very few major structures on Caye Caulker, and almost no motorized vehicles, other than those used for official business. Visitors spend their days lounging around, taking in the golden sun and the azure waters.

Ranguana Caye
In a country with hundreds of offshore islands, few can compare in beauty and tranquility than Ranguana Caye. Measuring just two acres in size, Ranguana Caye has just three wood cabanas raised on stilts for overnight visitors. Guests of Ranguana Caye can enjoy snorkeling, paddle boarding, and kayaking in the waters around the island or sit back and relax in a hammock that sways to a gentle tropical breeze. Guests can eat and drink their fill, work on their tan, and enjoy fun beach games and barbecues while staying on this beautiful island getaway. Perhaps the most popular spot on the island is Bully’s Beach Bar, the closest thing to a pirate den that you’re likely to ever see. Ranguana Caye is located about 18 miles or a one-hour boat journey from the Placencia Peninsula in southeastern Belize.

International Sources

Belizean Court Sinks Belize Bank’s $37M Arbitration Appeal
A Belizean appeals court on Friday rejected Belize Bank Ltd.’s bid to collect a $37 million arbitration award against the country stemming from unpaid government debt, agreeing with a trial judge that granting the request would harm public policy given the unusual circumstances under which the guarantees were made. In a decision handed down Friday, a divided panel of the Court of Appeal of Belize affirmed a decision denying a petition from the country’s largest commercial bank, which is owned by wealthy British political figure Lord...

Johnny Depp will play John McAfee in an upcoming biopic
The movie will centre on McAfee's notorious time in Belize Hollywood icon Johnny Depp is set to play tech industry legend John McAfee in an upcoming biopic based on his time hiding out in Belize, reports indicate. According to Deadline, the Pirates Of The Caribbean Star will play McAfee "as he takes a... magazine writer on a darkly comic Apocalypse Now-like tour at his Belize compound, a trip filled with paranoia, machine guns, sex and murder". Details are sketchy at present, but the film - that allegedly has the working title 'King Of The Jungle' - will apparently be based on the notorious episode in which the tech mogul and one-time presidential candidate went on the run from Belizean police in an unbelievable incident involving meth labs, alleged police frame-ups and the murder of McAfee's neighbour.

Videos

March 27, 2017

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, West Vision (Cayo) and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials

The San Pedro Sun

Doctor Love: Unsigned
Dear Doctor Love, Recently our family lost a close friend to illness. She was like a godmother to my six year-old child and my daughter is taking it very hard. She is now afraid that me or her father is going to die. She checks all the time to see where I am and sometimes she doesn’t even want to go play without me. How can I help her be okay? We are not religious so saying that there is God, heaven and a better place does not work for us. Do you think that she too young to understand if we are honest with her? /s/ Unsigned

Top Tourism destination in Belize still does not have a hospital
Despite being the fastest growing municipality and prime tourism destination in the country, Ambergris Caye is without a proper medical facility. The island lacks most of the medical services offered to other municipalities across the country, leaving residents and visitors vulnerable when the need arises for emergency medical care. Talks of the construction of a community hospital in San Pedro Town have been ongoing as early as 2011. In April 2012, newly-elected Mayor Daniel Guerrero said that a parcel of land had been identified for the construction of the hospital. He said that the land, located opposite to Bowen and Bowen Crystal outlet on Blake Street, was in the hands of the Ministry of Health (MOH), who was then tasked to identify funds for the building. However, five years later, nothing has come out of that statement, and authorities at the MOH have declined to speak on the matter.

Kenyon College installs solar panels at ACES and Brighter Tomorrow Preschool
More schools on Ambergris Caye are utilizing renewable energy by going solar. Thanks to volunteer help from Kenyon College of Ohio, USA, and the Belize Red Cross San Pedro Branch (BRCSPB), solar panels were installed at Ambergris Caye Elementary School (ACES) and Brighter Tomorrow Preschool (BTP) last week. This green alternative to regular electricity is expected to reduce the school’s electricity bill, while serving as a learning opportunity on renewable resources for students. On Wednesday, March 15th, the Kenyon College crew installed 10 solar panels at ACES. Denice Ryan, Principal at ACES, told The San Pedro Sun that they were grateful to be a part of the college’s field study. “I have to thank the crew, along with Laurie Norton, because without their interest, we wouldn’t have had solar panels installed. As this is also a field study, Kenyon College will be collecting data from the solar panels,” said Ryan.

Misc Belizean Sources

Belize to improve national rainfall monitoring and assessment
CCRIF SPC (formerly the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility) and the government of Belize have signed an agreement for CCRIF to provide US$100,000 to the government to purchase 40-50 automatic weather stations that will provide the Meteorological Service of Belize with access to real-time rainfall data. A ceremony to mark the signing took place on March 21 during CCRIF’s quarterly board meetings, which are held in different CCRIF member countries. CCRIF chairman, Milo Pearson, indicated that doing so enables the CCRIF board and team to deepen their interactions with national stakeholders and spend time addressing any concerns that members may have.

Today our Peninsula Police Cadets partnered with OCEANA Belize
and Projects Abroad on a beach cleanup campaign in Seine Bight Village. Thanks to Mrs. Giselle Marin, Mr. Celso Cawich, Police Officers, volunteers and cadets who made it possible.

2nd Annual Drug Awareness Run in San Pedro
Fun Run one more time let's go out in big numbers!! "PUT A CAP ON DRUGS"

Tennis Festival was in full swing this morning at the Pickwick tennis courts for our beginners
The children were all spectacular and great sports as they ran, jumped, skipped, dribbled and controlled the tennis ball and some even rallied the ball!! Great job to the kids and thanks to all parents and to the tennis coaches for a successful festival!! Look out for more events in near future.....

Miss Corozal Catwalk
8 Feisty combination of divas to ever hit the runway in competition...Drop our fashions on them and we in for an evening to rival any. Sarurday April 1st.

Hopkins International Parranda Music Fest 2017
April 15 – April 16, Palmento Grove Cultural & Fishing Lodge - Hopkins Belize. Welcome to the 4th Annual Hopkins International Parranda Music Festival highlighting Belize Indigenous Music. Come hear the inspirational Garifuna music and songs. Sharing the richest of the Garifuna Culture with the world which is a UNESCO proclaimed intangible heritage of humanity. Fest kicks off at 10:00 a.m with cassava baking exhibits, Isiah Nicholas Garifuna folkart & Music Exhibition with cultural art & music memorabilas for viewing & sale not to mention lot to eat and drink. Come meet our Cultural Music Artist and secure your autographs throughout the day. At 8:00p.m the first Band strikes and the Parranda Fete begins. Lineup will include 5 bands including Garifuna Collectives and 12 artist including Aurelio Martinez, llyd Augustine, Nuru Ellis, Adrian Doc Martinez and many more. Come celebrate with us our survival journey.. Highlighting all things Garifuna.

Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative
YLAI reverse exchange mini conference was a HUGE success! Thank you, James Robinson, Belizean YLAI fellows, and ALL who participated, for helping to create meaningful, impactful, and enduring partnerships between Belize and the United States!

Beyond the Horizon: 2017-Belize
Beyond the Horizons 2017 is kicking off in Belize and U.S. service members are arriving to construct humanitarian assitance projects and conduct medical readiness exercises (MEDRETES) to increase capacity in Belize. On March 25, Charge d'Affaires Adrienne Galanek welcomed newly arrived troops to Belize as they prepared to get to work with their Belizean counterparts. For the next three months, U.S. service members will rotate through Belize constructing a new emergency room in Belmopan, medical clinics in Ladyville and Double Head Cabbage, and a school building at the St. Matthews Government School. Additionally, three MEDRETES will be conducted at various times throughout the exercise to provide free medical care for Belizean people.

Land & Housing Expo
On Saturday April 1st, Western Pines and CP Buildings Ltd. Will be hosting its first of the year Land & Housing Expo at mile 8½ on the George Price Highway at the Western Pines Community. Bring along the entire family from 10am to 4pm at Western Pines Park. This Land & Housing Expo promises incredible discounts, financing by various banks and lending institutions. Food and drinks on sale by Western Pines Working Committee and games will be on hand for the children while the grown-ups shop.

Reflections on the Budget Debate: Bogus UDP Budget!
On Friday I listened keenly to the presentations made by the UDP Area Representative for Orange Walk East. A large portion of the East lies within our jurisdiction so I was hopeful that we would hear of some allocations for projects in that area. After all, political differences aside, we are here to serve the people. The Hon. Aragon spoke for exactly 33 minutes. In all that time, he mentioned the words Orange Walk East only one time. He made reference to his people only one time – not to thank them for having him there, because he seems to have forgotten that they are the only reasons he is able to sit in that honourable House. He devoted only one sentence in a 33-minute presentation to his people, to remind them, ironically, that he is a champion of the poor.

The Reporter

Belize takes up chairmanship of ACP Sugar sub-committee
Belize will take the leading role in helping the sugar industries in the African Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) group of countries deal with the upcoming challenges of this year. H.E. Dr. Dylan Vernon, Ambassador of Belize to Belgium and the European Union (EU), assumed the chairmanship of the ACP Sugar sub-committee this week, with only months before the European Union prepares to end preferential quotas for developing countries.

Days of Healing goes to Orange Walk
Residents of the Orange Walk community known as “Backa Town” gathered on Saturday with other residents throughout the district for a Day of Healing. The initiative, hosted by Perry “Stix” Smith, is a day where community members gather for sporting activities, positive messages, good food and drinks (non-alcoholic). On this, its 42nd event, the Orange Walk Days of Healing was held in the Louisiana Field, in Orange Walk Town. Smith explained that members from the Orange Walk community had seen a Day of Healing in Belize City, and asked that it be held in that district, due to an increasing concern about violent crimes.

UB and NICH team up for National Symbols lecture series
The University of Belize (UB)), in collaboration with the Museum of Belize, under the National Institute of Culture and History (NICH), is holding a lecture series this week, focusing on the national symbols of Belize. Both lectures are scheduled for Wednesday March 29. The first lecture segment will take place at the Bliss Centre for the Performing Arts, Belize City, at 10a.m., while the second will be hosted at the University of Belize Jaguar Auditorium, Belmopan City.

The Belize Times

NO BOUNCE & NOTHING BOLD – Johnny Decimates Barrow’s Bogus Budget
In his presentation which launched the debate scheduled for Thursday and Friday, PUP leader John Briceño surgically decimated the bogus budget presented to the nation on March 13th. The Prime Minister, with a trademark rhetorical flourish, gave his lame duck presentation the ostentatious title – “Bouncing Back – a Bold Belizean Recovery. Briceño was having none of that, and responded that there is no bounce and nothing bold in the Budget, asking what many Belizeans routinely ask – in what country is Mr. Barrow living? “No ordinary Belizean will benefit from anything contained in this budget,” stated Briceño. In fact, said Briceño, “the Prime Minster with little passion introduced a budget that is once again void of imagination and lacking of any plan to rescue a nation that he and his UDP Administration have driven to the verge of bankruptcy and is bordering on a depression.”

Cayo Police Hunt for Head of Murder Victim
As we go to press today, Thursday, Cayo Police are trying to identify the victim of a gruesome murder, allegedly in that jurisdiction. On Tuesday, two minors from Blackman Eddy, found a plastic bag near the river bank while hunting iguanas. That bag held a crocus sack containing neatly severed body parts. Sources in the Police Department told us that the first grisly discovery yielded two legs severed at the knees and two arms severed at the elbows. Police could not determine at that time if the body parts, determined to be those of a light skinned female, had floated to that location from upriver.

Belizeans Are Squatters, Declares Sedi!
It is unquestioned that Sedi Elrington has been Belize’s worst Foreign Minister! Sedi after almost 10 years of apprenticeship remains an amateur and a dangerous one at that! Since 2008, Belize’s formerly stout diplomatic position has been completely undone by Sedi and the UDP. The Guatemalans have danced circles around Sedi, and Dean Barrow seems too consumed with his own “legacy” to even care. Sedi clearly suffers from an acute superiority complex; he believes that because he is a lawyer that somehow he is superior to the rest of us. The level of his arrogance can be measured by his public pronouncements, especially those related to Guatemala.

‘Gunman’ Son of UDP Minister Charged…
It only took two months, but finally, after sustained pressure, on Tuesday Kenzle Hulse, son of Minister Godwin Hulse, was charged. Very quietly, with no fanfare or Police disclosure until after the fact, Hulse was charged with Harm and arraigned in the Belmopan Magistrate’s court, where he was granted bail of $1000 and the matter was adjourned to May 18, 2017. The fact is that the entire matter was handled very differently than it would have been if Hulse were just a normal Belizean accused of the same act. On January 22, 2017, the young businessman allegedly pistol-whipped an elderly man, Alberto Santos Lopez. According to Lopez, without provocation Hulse hit him with the pistol, then choked him and threw him to the ground. Lopez reported the matter immediately, but we are reliably informed that from the very beginning political interference reared its ugly head.

Squatters
The People’s United Party has taken the firm position that it will not support going to the International Court of Justice at this point in time. That is not to say that the PUP does not want a definitive answer where the unfounded and lately increasingly aggressive claim to a significant portion of Belize is concerned. But there is no way that Belizeans in general should support the ICJ move when a man like Wilfred Elrington is steering the diplomatic and territorial ship. Sedi Elrington has shown himself to be a very dangerous man where our nation’s interest is concerned. At times it seems that he is looking out for the interests of Guatemala over ours. That is an unacceptable thing. There is just too much at stake, too much that can be irretrievably lost.

Orange Walk Girls Win National Primary Schools Football Championship
The Progresso RC Primary School girls from the Orange Walk District won the national football championship which the National Sports Council held at the Marion Jones Sporting Complex grounds last Friday. In Game 1, Progresso RC won 2-0 over the Belize district champs, the Wesley Upper girls, when MVP Britney Zuniga scored a goal in each half. In Game 2, the Cayo champs – the St. Francis Xavier RC girls of Esperanza drew 0-0 with the Corozal champs, the Caledonia RC girls. In Game 3 Wesley Upper won 1-0 over the Toledo champs, the Forest Home Methodist girls, with a goal by Karin Eagen.

San Pedro Boys Win 4x NSSSA Softball Championship
The San Pedro High School boys won their 4th National Secondary Schools Sports Association (NSSSA) softball championship at the Rogers Stadium over the weekend. San Pedro High School has now won 4 national championships this school year: boys’ volleyball, girls’ basketball and football, and now softball! In Game 1 Friday afternoon, Northern champs San Pedro High School boys hammered the Western champs, the Sacred Heart College boys, to a 13-3 win by mercy rule in 3 innings. SPHS pitcher Lester Gamez struck out 8 batters, walked 3, and gave up 1 hit; while the SPHS boys got 8 hits off SHC pitcher Kever Smith, who walked 5 batters.

E.P. Yorke High Girls Win NSSSA Softball Championship
The Edward P. Yorke High School girls won the National Secondary Schools Sports Association (NSSSA) softball championship at the Rogers Stadium over the weekend. In Game 1 Friday afternoon, the Western champs the Belmopan Comprehensive girls outlasted the Northern champs, the Belize Rural High School girls: 10-9; as pitcher Renisha Richards struck out 13 batters, while the Compre girls got 6 hits off pitcher Keena Pott who also walked 3 batters.

THE WONDERER AND THE BELIZEAN SPLIT
You must be wondering if it’s the Belizean Split at Belmopan House of Representatives or the Belize – Guatemala Split at the Sarstoon…..it’s the CAYE CAULKER SPLIT! Yes, Belizeans, friends and tourist “The Caye Caulker Island split has its story.” Have you ever wondered if it is natural? Well it was initially caused by the old fishermen who once dug a small channel for their canoes, then their sailing boats through the wetlands and mangroves. Finally Hurricane Hattie came and really made a mess and it’s getting larger ever since. Hurricanes play a large role in changing the coastal shape but its worse when the human touch has been there first. Do you remember when Hurricane Mitch chased us all to Belmopan! Thanks to God it did not come this side, but we felt the effects of it. The entire coastlines of Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker were affected.

THE GOV’T’S BUDGET 2017/18:
The government’s budget for the next fiscal year that begins in April is a hodge-podge jumble of figures made to look like economics but far removed from the reality of good governance. It is slash and burn economics short of a rational national development strategy. The Prime Minister’s Budget speech, which he delivered as the Minister of Finance about two weeks ago to the House of Representatives, is the narrative, or executive summary, about how the government intends to earn and spend money in the next twelve months. But the PM’s rhetoric just does not jive with a breakdown of how the government will manage this budget. It is based on speculation and scalping of the productive sector and consumers.

HARD TIME BUDGET
By Gilroy Usher, Sr. Government is in a financial pickle. It is broke. To get out of this financial jam the 2017- 2018 Budget outlines plans to collect $80 million more in taxes than last year and reduce spending by $30 million less than that of the previous year. This is serious business. If this financial situation becomes worse, it could lead to the devaluation of the Belize dollar which would mean huge suffering for us countrywide. The government intends to raise the additional millions it needs with new taxes on cement, soft-drinks, beer, stout, fuel, cigarettes, aerated (purified) water and an increase in the environmental and departure taxes.

Sober Reflections – Monsters Among Us…
By: Mike Rudon Jr. Last night I was shown a picture of some human parts found in a crocus sack – two legs and two arms, neatly cut off, discarded like just so many pieces of garbage. Police have been unable or unwilling at this time to reveal the identity of the victim of this especially heinous crime. It comes on the heels of another vicious murder of a teenage girl, Keona Ara. From all accounts she was killed inside the bathtub of a home in Belmopan. She was stabbed to death, her throat sliced. She was then taken to the dump outside the municipality where her killers set her body on fire.

Thinking Out Loud
By: Kevin Bernard. I was pleasantly surprised recently by the words of my brother Mayor Darrell Bradley who recognized the scope of works which have been taking place in our municipality. Sometimes I fear that we have become so divided over politics that we will never unite as a people. I always wonder why. Politicians should serve the people always, so if we all have the same mandate why is it that we should not get along. So I express my appreciation to Mayor Bradley for his kind words.

MY PERSPECTIVE – RE-REGISTRATION IS A MUST
Much is being said these days about the Re-Registration process that must take place and that should have been done long ago. The Electoral Roll of any democratic country is plainly the lifeblood of a properly functioning democracy. We have to know who the eligible voters are whenever an election comes around, and the lists need to be complete, accurate and easily accessible. I believe that on the present lists for the thirty-one electoral divisions there are over 190,000 voters registered, close to 200,000. At the moment I get the sense that not too much activity is taking place regarding voter registration, since the issue of re-registration is very much alive. However, already we are within a year of municipal elections. Things are bound to heat up.

Dissecting Barrow’s Budget 2017/2018 pt.2
Less Spending…Less Growth! Concurrent with the struggles of our export industries, the PM has proposed in his budget to cut capital expenditure to $149.7 million from the $243.5 that was allocated in the last financial year. This means that there will be $93.8 million less in government spending on projects that will find its way into the Belizean economy. This reduction in the government’s capital expenditure once again demonstrates the smoke and mirror game being played by the PM. Less investment cannot translate into increased growth!

Dissecting Barrow’s Budget 2017/2018
The budget presented and the expected results are not in alignment. The expected result, according to the PM, is a 3% to 3.5% growth in GDP, a 2% primary surplus and an economy that has recovered from the grip of recession. Although these goals are not ordinarily lofty, the present economic climate that prevails in Belize is not favourable for their achievement. If an objective observer were to scan the Belizean economic landscape, he or she would see an ailing economy. To compound this situation, the budget proposes a virtual freeze on government spending and additional tax measure affecting tourism and international trade. So where does the PM expect this growth and rebound to miraculously appear from?

A BOLD Vision…A REAL Belizean Recovery
PUP Leader John Briceño: Today I want to share our vision with the Belizean people. It is rooted in a philosophy that goes back to the Father of our Nation the Right Hon. George Price. Mr. Price always believed ours was a work in progress; he led a revolution, one that is at its core peaceful, always constructive, progressive and uniquely Belizean. These values remain true today and form a part of our PUP Creed, one that seeks to achieve social economic and environmental justice. It is a commitment to the socio-economic improvement of all Belizeans. This is why last week when I spoke to a group of Junior College Students I told them that my plan is to rid Belize of poverty. To us poverty is an ugly scar on our nation’s collective conscience, and no amount of cosmetic surgery can paste over the suffering of close to half of our people who live on less than ten dollars per day, most of whom are women and children.

OAS Pushes for Referendum on ICJ
OAS Secretary General Luis Almagro Lemes was in Belize for a few days last week, mainly to urge Belize to step up efforts to hold the referendum on whether Belize should take Guatemala’s unfounded claim to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). This was his second visit here since being elected to the helm of the hemispheric organization. Though Guatemala has been guiltier of foot-dragging on the referendum issue than Belize, and despite their acts of aggression against Belize in the last 2 years, the funds for the OAS Peace mission are starting to run out. The donor community, made of wealthy and friendly nations advocating for a peaceful resolution to the territorial claim, have been spending their money to fund the OAS Adjacency Zone Office at the Western Border.

Sista B and SonShyne: Barrow’s gift to the UDP?
It appears that the war in the UDP is about to re-commence. On March 13, 2017 Dean Barrow boldly announced to the nation that he will anoint two of his immediate family members to assume leadership roles in the Queen Square and Mesopotamia divisions: Sista B and SonShyne respectively. Were political leadership not such an important undertaking Barrow’s announcement would be hilarious. What does either of the royal Barrows have over other aspiring members of the UDP that Dean could just anoint his sister and his son? What qualification does Sista B and SonShyne hold that the good peoples of Queen Square and Mesopotamia would want them sitting in the House of Representatives? Dean Barrow claims to be one of Belize’s best minds and look at the mess he has made of the economy!

GOB Screw-ups Costing Belizeans Millions…
The Government is trying to get out of paying an $8.8 Million dollar award to Bahamians Rohn Knowles and Kelvin Leach. The Supreme Court has ruled that the Police Department and the Financial Intelligence Unit were excessive when they cleaned out both men’s Titan International Securities Office in September of 2014. That raid was ruled to be unlawful and a breach of their constitutional rights, but the Government is attempting to convince the Court of Appeal that the judge was wrong and that they shouldn’t pay a single cent for their actions.

Senate Inquiry Watch… – More Incredible Tales of Irregularities & Corruption
The Senate Select Committee, tasked with investigating corruption and irregularities at the Immigration Department, had a very long day listening to a current and former immigration official give testimony filled with doubtful information. While they had only more questions than answers, they did get one mystery solved. The alleged immigration agent, who reportedly got paid big money for his wheeling and dealing at the Department, was finally revealed to the Senate as Barton Middleton, a businessman from Orange Walk Town.

If Dah Noh Soh
Sick… What the hell is going on with people to be killing up other people and cutting throats and stabbing and shooting and slicing and burning? It ain’t no laughing matter. It’s scary as hell. Seems like we’ve been learning all the wrong things from our neighbours around us. Evil I tell you. Y’all need to go to Church and find God in your lives. Mr. Dean Sir, we need you to get serious on crime. Really now there’s too much happening and it appears that you and your ministers have your heads stuck firmly somewhere the sun don’t shine. Do you all even hear the cries of so many mothers who have to bury their children? Cha man wake up.

Questions to Ministers
Would the Member for Queen Square and Minister of Finance please say why, if BTL is a Belizean company, the Barrow-appointed Board of Directors has chosen to let go most of the Belizean management staff and has instead hired foreigners to those positions? Would the Member for Queen Square and Prime Minister please provide an update on the investigation into his friend the former Deputy Prime Minister Gaspar Vega, accused of rampant corruption in the Ministry of Natural Resources? Would the Member for Belize Rural North and Minister of NEMO, Transport and Hustling please say if he would be willing to allow auditors to check into the finances of that Ministry since he took over? And could he further say if he would be willing to provide a list of his personal assets before and after becoming a politician?

Belize City Resident Savagely Attacks and Murders Sister
The quiet of the First Street vicinity in the King’s Park area of Belize City was broken early Sunday evening by the pained shrieks of 29-year-old Juliane Burke. She was being savagely attacked by her younger brother, 26-year-old Elijah Burke who had hidden waiting for her in the yard of her rented apartment. Neighbours say they saw him arrive at around 4 in the afternoon asking for his sister. When they informed him that she was not at home, he reportedly muttered that he had to “bring the Police for her because something di goh aan eena da yard.”

Breaking Belize News

Jose Mai offers sound economic advice to GoB
Orange Walk South Representative, Jose Mai, in registering his discontent with the 2017-2018 proposed budget, shared with Parliament how just one investment in the productive sector using PetroCaribe funds could have helped to grow the Belizean economy. According to Mai,” …An investment of $10 – $15 million from the PetroCaribe funds in the poultry industry would have increased slaughtering capacity from 2,000 to 5,000 birds per hour!”

Police officer dies after fatally stabbed in Belize City
The police officer that was fatally stabbed at the Raccoon Street Police Station in Belize City passed away at the KHMH a short while ago. The victim has been identified as PC Marvin Locke.

Police officer stabbed at Raccoon Street Police Station
Reports reaching our newsroom indicate that a police officer was stabbed a short while ago at the Raccoon street police station in Belize City. The police officer is being transported to the KHMH for medical attention at this time.

6 dead since Friday, police silent
In less than 72 hours, six Belizeans have died in tragic circumstances. The first fatality was that of female police officer, Jennifer Hibberd, attached to the Punta Gorda police station. She lost her life on Friday night in a traffic mishap in Elridgeville. Further details surrounding her death are not yet known.

BTL holds official launch of new downtown office
Crowds gathered yesterday morning at the corner of Regent and Bishop streets for the official launch of Belize Telemedia Ltd.’s new office building “the Digicell Store.” After a brief ceremony, detailing the functions of the new facility, BTL opened the doors for a short media tour before allowing customers in to browse promotional items and services...

Bills passed to provide parole for convicted murderers
On Thursday, during day one of the budget debate, GOB presented several bills, including four bills to update parole laws in Belize. Currently the punishment for murder is the death penalty. That is to change, however, as on Thursday in the House of Representatives, Prime Minister Dean Barrow presented a ...

Blogs

Getting South of San Pedro Town – Changes and Shopping
Today we have family arriving from the states and my usual shopping list was modified to include “nice things for visitors” – wine from Wine De Vine, smoked fish from the Farmers’ Market and Ian Anderson. So I set off early on a beautiful Saturday morning. (This was my view down the easement by the house later that afternoon…) I had a few stops south of town – near my old stomping grounds – and decided to walk a bit on the beach. But first, I stopped for some sustenance. The new French Bakery just across the street from the exit to Tropic Air is the best worst thing that has ever happened in San Pedro – or the worst best thing. It is so ridiculously good – REAL croissants and baguettes – but man…the last thing I need is a buttery buttery 1/2 lb of buttery snack.

International Sources

Caribbean Cat Facility CCRIF Donates $100,000 to Belize to Aid Rainfall Tracking
Belize SPC (formerly the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility) is providing US$100,000 to the government of Belize to purchase 40-50 automatic weather stations that will provide the Meteorological Service of Belize with access to real-time rainfall data. The weather stations will significantly improve the government’s ability to monitor, record and forecast rainfall within Belize and better prepare the country for hydrometeorological events, said CCRIF CEO Isaac Anthony, who quoted comments from Belize’s Met Service. The CCRIF also has supported Belize by funding in 2010 two scholarships to meteorologists, Michele Smith and Shanea Young, to complete a Bachelor of Science degree in Meteorology at the University of West Indies.

Wyndham Grand Cruises into Belize with luxurious five-star destination
Continuing its aggressive development in Latin America and the Caribbean Wyndham Hotel Group, the hotel giant with an unmatched global presence of more than 8,000 hotels, today unveiled plans to manage the stunning 242-key Wyndham Grand Ambergris Caye, the first resort in Belize to fly the Wyndham Grand flag. Caribbean tranquillity meets Venetian romance and charm at this five-star oceanfront resort, scheduled to open in December 2018. Situated along the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea, the resort's five towers – housing elegantly designed one-, two-, and three-bedroom hotel and residential suites – feature eleven cascading waterfalls and rise up from sparkling pools connected by bridges and canals reminiscent of Venice. The various waterways create the largest pool of its kind in all of Belize for guests and residents to enjoy. Wyndham Grand Ambergris Caye – owned by Venezia del Caribe, LTD, and developed by Sandy Point Developments, LTD – will offer a signature spa, a fitness center, multiple restaurants, 7,000 square feet of meeting space, and an onsite excursion center. It puts guests within just yards of Belize's Barrier Reef, the world's second largest coral reef system, which runs the length of the country and is just three miles from San Pedro, the island's only town.

Belize students receive introduction to ham radio
Engineering Students at the University of Belize have been given an Introduction to Amateur Radio by members of the Belize Amateur Radio Club (BARC) The introduction was held at the University of Belize (UB) Engineering Department in Belize City and included a summary of BARC´s educational goals, a short video, a lesson on ham radio basics (such as propagation and the radio frequency spectrum) and a question-and-answer session. BARC President Emil Rodriguez, V31ER, encouraged the young students to grasp the opportunities that Amateur Radio offers to expand their skills in their field of study, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering Technologies.

Mermaids are making a splash in Texas and beyond
Angela Lorio paid for her first tail with a summer beekeeping job. Gold and shimmery, the new appendage was a bargain deal, a magical entree into the watery world of professional mermaiding for the Houston-area woman. Now she and her mer-partner, Sherry Rozas, are eagerly awaiting the spring party season. "There's a lot of mermaid demand," said Rozas, also known as Mermaid Sherielle. Every year for about a week, a handful of dedicated merfolk fly down to Belize for a trip Russo likens to "mermaid summer camp." The island visit, which benefits a nonprofit high school in Belize, includes mermaid-themed movies, mermaid yoga and mermaid boot camp, along with hours of swimming in tail.

The New High-Tech Fly Rod That Makes You a Better Fisherman
If you want to know what makes the Scott Meridian fly rod special, I can spell out all the science-y reasons. A good fly rod is light and strong and allows you to cast with just the right balance of power and finesse. In developing the Meridian's state-of-the-art composite materials, Scott used a new process that creates bonds between each graphite fiber that are 20 percent stronger than those found in traditional rods. But what good is technology if it doesn't allow you to do something amazing? To experience the awesome? To come away with a good braggy story? Last spring, I traveled to El Pescador Lodge on Ambergris Caye, in Belize, in an attempt to land my first permit. Among the most prized saltwater game species, Trachinotus falcatus are notoriously finicky eaters and bruising pound-for-pound fighters. To land one, you've got to make a cast of maybe 60 feet or more (any closer and he'll see you and take off), drop your fly within a foot of the fish's nose (any farther and he won't notice it), and then, if you're lucky enough to get a strike, wrestle your prey to the boat as he tries to beeline it for the horizon. A permit of five or six pounds might run 100 yards before you can even begin to reel him in, then, just when you've brought him to within a few feet of the boat, run 100 yards more. Half-hour tussles are not uncommon.

Videos

March 26, 2017

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, West Vision (Cayo) and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials

Misc Belizean Sources

2nd Annual Caye Caulker Lionfish Derby
At the end of the day, participants arrived with large amounts of the voracious predator... Organizers declared the event a grand success.

Photos from the Lionfish Derby
Ron Seidle doing fish fillet

OA Lionfish Arts and Crafts event
Di Maroons drumming, Ocean Academy face painting, kids creating recycled art and learning about lionfish from Ecomar and Oceana.

The costume queen came through today and paraded in her Lionfish outfit
Thank you for your never ending spirit!

Closed Hunting Seasons
Hunting, as described in our laws, also includes harassing, catching, and any other kind of physical contact with wildlife, and is illegal. Please educate your family and friends and encourage them to leave our wildlife WILD. Want to hunt? Get your permits, respect our laws and natural heritage. We are in closed season for Gibnut, iguana, armadillo and all birds. The hunting regulations are so precise that it is highly unlikely that anyone out hunting is doing so legally. Take pictures and report them. Do your part today to conserve for tomorrow.

Mr. Eiden Salazar Sr. Passes away
Mayor Daniel Guerrero, the San Pedro Town Council and Staff would like to express it sincere condolences to the Salazar Family and Friends on the passing of Mr. Eiden Salazar Sr. San Pedro has lost another of its fishing industry pioneers. May his soul rest in peace.

DOUBLE MURDER IN BELIZE CITY!
On Saturday, around 2 am, Police were called to the area near Chon Saan Restaurant, [ Kelly Street ], where two persons were observed on the ground, near a bicycle, apparently dead with gun shot wounds to the body. Victims have been identified as Byron Marshall & Nelson Noralez.

Learning Outside the Classroom
Today our Infant 1 students took a city tour and visited the Fire Station, Post Office, Police Station and Michael Finnegan Market. They got to post the friendly letters they wrote each other, met police officers, explored fire trucks and bought fruits and vegetables. What an awesome day!!

Sarteneja Easter Regatta
Look out for the Corozal Bay Sailing Club at the Sarteneja Easter Regatta on Sunday April 16, 2017

Belize Raptor Center at Cahal Pech Archeological Site
We would like to send a HUGE thank you to NICH for allowing us to present to Louisiana Govt School from OW. We could not accommodate the number of students at our facility and instead of turning them away we worked out a win win situation. The children not only got to experience meeting and learning about birds of prey but they also got to enjoy discovering the beautiful Cahal Pech archaeological sight. We hope to do more collaborating with NICH in the near future with large groups of students from all over Belize.

The first Central America raptor guide is out by Bill Clark!
A great book. Go get your copy today. A sample plate and species account.

Beyond the Horizon: 2017-Belize starts today!
This collaborative exercise will bring five medical and educational construction projects and three free medical service events to Belize between now and June! We officially begin our construction projects on Monday. We will be building school houses and medical facilities in Belize and Cayo districts. Here are some phots and explanations of our projects. More will be added as we contine our mission.

The U.S. Embassy Belmopan has an opening for a Voucher Examiner
WHO MAY APPLY: Anyone who is eligible for appointment under Belize’s local laws. Applicant must be in possession of a Belize social security card valid for employment and/or a resident/work permit. The U.S. Mission in Belize provides equal opportunity and fair and equitable treatment in employment to all people without regard to race, color religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, political affiliation, marital status, or sexual orientation. The Department of State also strives to achieve equal employment opportunity in all personnel operations through continuing diversity enhancement programs.

The Reporter

BTL launches “The DigiCell Store”
Today, Belize Telemedia Limited held the official launch for its newly renovated office called “The DigiCell Store.” The event started off with a brief ceremony and ribbon-cutting at the facility, located at the corner of Bishop and Regent Street. BTL then gave invited guests a tour of the building, before opening up to the public to browse their promotions and services in commemoration of the event.

Breaking Belize News

Minor murdered in Cristo Rey Village, Cayo
Confirmed reports reaching our newsroom is that a young man was stabbed to death a short while ago by another man in Cristo Rey Village in the Cayo District. The 17 year old was stabbed in the chest area and his body is still on […]

Fatal road traffic accident in Corozal leaves one dead
A fatal road traffic accident in Corozal has left one person dead. However, his/ her identity remains unknown. According to reports, a Four Runner SUV and a motorcycle collided near the entrance of Corozal. At this time, the victim remains dead on the road […]

One dead, one critical in afternoon shooting
Two men were gunned down minutes ago in front of a Chinese business establishment on Kelly Street, Belize City. According to reports, one of the men has succumbed to his injuries and the other is critical. At this time we can confirm that the […]

Businessman brutally murdered in Santa Cruz, Southern Belize
A well-known businessman of Santa Cruz village in the Stann Creek District was brutally murdered last night. Reports are that the man was returning home from delivering oranges around 10:30 last night when a couple of guys stopped him almost three yards away from […]

New Macal Bridge to be completed in May
In his budget presentation yesterday, Minister of Works, Rene Montero said that for the fiscal year 2016-2017, the Hawkesworth bridge in Santa Elena/ San Ignacio underwent repairs costing $251,133. BBN readers will recall that a public notice was issued last year while the Hawkesworth […]

Court of Appeal strikes down Belize Bank arbitration award enforcement
The Court of Appeal has refused to allow the Belize Bank to enforce a $36.9 million (plus interest), arbitration award against the Government of Belize. The COA handed down a majority decision on Friday, upholding the Supreme Court’s decision, preventing the Bank from enforcing the […]

Multi-millionTitan compensation award pending
Having heard arguments from the Government of Belize and attorneys for Titan International Securities, the Court of Appel has deffered its decision regarding the almost $9 million compensation award against GOB, to a later date. GOB filed the appeal after Bahamians, Rohn Knowles and Kelvin Leach won […]

Fatal traffic accident in PG claims life of woman police officer
There was a fatal road traffic accident last night near Elridgeville in Punta Gorda Town, southern Belize. Reports are that a woman police officer attached to the Punta Gorda Police station perished in the accident. Details are still forthcoming […]

Two men shot and killed in Belize City early this morning
Reports to our newsroom indicate that two men were shot to death around 2 this morning in an area near Chon Saan Restaurant in Belize City. A source told BBN that the two persons were seen lying on the ground apparently dead. We will […]

Videos

March 25, 2017

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, West Vision (Cayo) and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials

The San Pedro Sun

Belize’s Position on Tainted Corned Beef
The Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) and the Ministry of Health met today with all importers of Corned Beef to discuss the recent tainted Corned Beef issue in Brazil, and the adherence to measures that will be applied to ensure that Corned Beef in the Belizean market is safe for consumption. According to a document from the delegation of Brazil in the WTO, document G/SPS/GEN/1545, “on 17 March 2017 the Brazilian Federal Police detected irregular practices involving certification of meat and meat products by staff members of the Ministry of Agriculture in 21 meat processing facilities that handled beef, poultry and poultry products”. As measures taken to curtail those irregular practices, Brazil informed that three of these facilities have had their operations halted and all 21 are being re-audited and have been suspended from exporting.

Kent Gabourel wins Weekend Warriors’ Sean Duncan birthday race
Kent “Bob” Gabourel of Team Kulture Megabytes’ rode in solo, a half mile ahead of his nearest rival as he dominated the A category of the Weekend Warriors Cycling Club’s “Sean Duncan” birthday race. Sponsored by Belize Natural Energy on the Philip Goldson and George Price Highways to Belize City, the race was held on Sunday, March 19th. Sean Duncan and attorney Andrew Bennett, both of Team SMART Zoom, won the B and C categories respectively. A Category rode 60 miles from the Sand Hill junction with the old Northern Highway to Altun Ha and back to the Philip Goldson Highway, the via the Burrell Boom bypass to Hattieville on the George Price Highway, to finish at Leslie’s Imports.

Two men injured during shootout in San Mateo
A shooting incident in the San Mateo area left two men injured on Thursday, March 23rd. According to an official police report, 18-year-old Delson Paguada and 30-year-old Leroy Goff sustained gunshot injuries during an attempted assassination. San Pedro Police have since detained two men for questioning. The incident took place around 9PM while Paguada was walking towards his home. He reported to police that upon nearing his house, he heard gunshot and saw two male persons in a yard opposite him with what appeared to be a 9mm pistol. The men allegedly shot at Paguada, and he received a single gunshot wound to his right armpit. The police arrived in the area shortly after and rushed Paguada to the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II for treatment.

The Sunshine Scholarship Foundation thanks sponsors
The Sunshine Scholarship Foundation, which provides scholarships to underprivileged children in San Pedro, would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge all of the sponsors who made the ‘Sean McDermott Benefit Concert’ fund raising event a complete success! Thanks to the incredible generosity of many, the Foundation was able to raise a little over $19,000 in much-needed scholarship funds.

San Pedro U17 and Warriors draw 1-1 in Mclean BDFA football
Although the San Pedro Under-17 debuted with a 4-0 win over Third World on February 18th in the first week of the Mclean Insurance Brokers’ Under-17 football tournament, they have struggled through a loss and two draws in subsequent appearances. Most recently, the San Pedro squad battled to a 1-1 draw with Fabro’s Warriors FC U-17 at the MCC grounds in Belize City on Saturday, March 18.

Ambergris Today

Pre School Festival of Arts!
As part of stimulation month each preschool in the island had the opportunity to present a dance, a musical activity or a story(Drama). It was a night full of laughter and fun! way to go Kiddos!

Celebration Of Life For Corry McDermott To Be Held
“Mr. Corry” passed away on Saturday, December 31, 2016, at his home, Casa Madera, in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. A “Celebration of Life” will be held Saturday, April 1, 2017, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the SunBreeze Hotel, San Pedro Town. At 2:00 p.m., a short service of prayers, personal reflections and remembrances will take place.

Misc Belizean Sources

In Guyana, BDF Officer is Number One
Officer Cadet Francisco Choc of the Belize Defence Force (BDF) was awarded the best student overall in the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Standard Officers Course (SOC). Choc, who hails from Dolores Village in the Toledo District, also received the Sword of Honour and Best in Fitness and Military Knowledge. The Standard Military Officers Course is a commissioning training for new army officers in Guyana and other Caribbean countries. It is an intensive programme of leadership and command methods in military skills and tactics, physical fitness, military law and national policy.

Belize Assumes Chairmanship of the ACP Subcommittee on Sugar
H.E Dr. Dylan Vernon, Ambassador of Belize to Belgium and the European Union (EU), assumed the chairmanship of the Sugar Subcommittee of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (ACP) on Wednesday, March 22nd. Ambassador Vernon will lead the ACP Sugar Subcommittee during a period of challenges for ACP sugar exporters like Belize. The expiry of EU domestic sugar quotas in September 2017 is expected to lead to contraction of the EU market for imported sugar and price decrease. The impending withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the EU is also expected to add further uncertainty to the market for sugar in Europe.

2 SAN PEDRANOS SHOT
On 23.03.17 at 9:10 p.m., police visited San Mateo area where they saw 18-year-old Delson Paguada, a fisherman of San Mateo suffering from a gunshot wound to his right armpit. He was taken to the San Pedro Polyclinic where 30-year-old Leroy Goff also of San Mateo area was also brought in suffering from gunshot wounds to his back and chest. Investigation revealed that about 9:00 p.m., Paguada was walking towards his house and while he was about 20 feet away from his house he heard gunshots and saw two male persons in a yard opposite his house each with what appeared to be a 9 mm pistol in their hand and shooting in his direction. He later realized that he had been shot. The Police arrived in the area shortly after and rushed him to the San Pedro Polyclinic. They later found Leroy Goff in the same yard opposite his house also suffering from gunshot injuries and rushed him to the San Pedro Polyclinic. Police have since detained two men pending an investigating.

RADiCAL Exhibit Launch
The San Ignacio & Santa Elena House of Culture (NICH) kicked off the RADiCAL Art Exhibit on Friday. There's some great pieces on display from many Belizean women artists. Stacy Ann was there, and she made a great statement. As part of the exhibit, there was a video of Briheda Haylock making her art since she wasn't in country. The new wine made out of Benque was on display.

Rowan Garel gets Taiwanese Award!
We are so proud to announce that Rowan Garel has been selected as a recipient of Taiwan's Chou Ta-kuan Cultural and Educational Foundation "Fervent Global Love of Lives Award"! This award honours people throughout the world who display bravery, love and selflessness. Rowan, from the tender age of 10, displayed true selflessness when he decided to help raise awareness and funds for children, who like him, are blind.

DEFENCE MINISTER SALUTES WOMEN
Minister of Defence Hon. John Saldivar this morning addressed a gathering of women who work within his ministry and departments under his command. The event was organized as part of International Women’s Month activities under the theme, “Women in the Changing World of Work: Planet 50-50 by 2030”. In his remarks, Hon Saldivar stated, “It is really nice to have a special time for women where they are glorified to the point of being honored, awarded and appreciated. I hope this builds awareness and acknowledgement of the woman’s contribution to life, society, family and work; we salute her strength, resilience and sacrifice. Women empowerment lies in honoring yourself and treating yourself with respect. Remember, “No one can put you down without your permission” – Eleanor Roosevelt. For all you have done and continue to do for the Ministry and the Security Forces, Thank You.”

San Pedro Clean Up Campaign!
It was a great KICK OFF to our Clean Up Campaign! Our trucks and employees picked up large piles of garbage in the San Juan Area and Boca del Rio Area this past Thursday, March 23....We'll be back next week! If you missed us you still have time to take out your yard trash as we will be back next week for a final run!

Arts and Crafts for children today on Caye Caulker
Arts and Crafts for children today Saturday 11am-2pm at the basketball court. Ocean Academy will be face painting, drawing and coloring lionfish, making recycling art, tying balloon animals and selling raffle tickets. Ecomar and Oceana will have educational displays. Di Maroons will be drumming. Free and everyone welcome!

"Cheap Sale" in Corozal
We had a very successful "Cheap Sale" today from donations to the club. We had a great time and lots of laughs...even a fashion moment before starting. We want to thank all our volunteers who helped! We could not have done this without all of you!!!! And many thanks to those that donated toRotary! We use the money's collected for very important causes...Scholarships, Wheelchairs, Computers, and now our new Pilot Project...Diversion Sustainable Toilets which has the ground breaking today at the Concepcion RC School!

Standard for Public Comments: Biscuits Specification
Deadline for Comments: April 13, 2017 Kindly download the Standard and all relevant documentation (Standard, Voting Form and Disposition Sheet) via the links below: Biscuit Specification - Voting Form - Disposition Form.

UK Travel Agents Familiarization Tour of Belize
The UK Travel Agents are now experiencing La Isla Bonita!

Dr. Michael Schick trains KHMH physicians on Emergency treatments
During his recent trip to Belize, Dr. Michael Schick, emergency physician from the United States, trained hard-working physicians at Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) to use the point-of-care ultrasound and other emergency medical care equipment. The goal of Dr. Mike’s visit to Belize was to help enhance emergency medical care in Belize by working with local physicians, nurses, and EMTs on trauma care (TEAM course) and transport of patients. The partners in this important project are the Medical College of Wisconsin, Baylor, UC Davis, KHMH, BERT, and the Ministry of Health.

Earth Hour BELIZE
Earth Hour BELIZE is almost here! Tonight join us at BTL park at 7:00 pm for a fun candlelight vigil with musical entertain by Pantempters Steel Orchestra, songs, stories and poetry followed by a candlelight walk to Memorial Park at 8:30. Come on out and shine your light.

Channel 7

Low Income Neighborhood Burns, Dozens Dislocated
Tonight one of the city's oldest low income neighborhoods has been flattened by fire, and, likely, dozens are left homeless. The fire started in Pink's Alley - between Queen And North Front Streets - at around 4:30. It burned one of the apartment buildings which is home to many families. The fire was brought under control at around 5:30. Tonight we can confirm that very fortunately no one was hurt in this area which is home to many families with children. But residents are vary raw and angry. They say that the Fire Department did a very poor job and weren't ready with water or equipment. Our team is just back after speaking with the area representative and a prominent member of that neighborhood. Here's the interview with Leroy Grandmaster Young - who's one of the neighborhood;'s oldest resident:

Fire In The Center Of Caye Caulker
And almost simultaneously there was a report of a major fire in downtown Caye Caulker. This one started in the center of the village near the police station at Tina Auxilou's Hotel. Reliable reports say that the fire equipment on the island ran out of water and tourists and residents had to join together to form a bucket brigade. We'll have more on this later on in the news.

Calaney Gets Off Alleged Murder of Ex
Trial without jury cases have been making the news all this week, and tonight, there is another high profile one coming out of the Supreme Court. Back in August of 2012, it made headlines news when Belize City resident Calaney Flowers was charged with murder and attempted murder for allegedly knocking down and killing her baby's father. He was 29 year-old Lyndon Morrison, and he was riding his signature Suzuki motorcycle with his new girlfriend, Sochyl Sosa. The couple were traveling on Freetown Road, when Flowers ran into them in her car. Morrisson died from his injuries, while Sosa was badly injured.

Day Two Of Budget Debate is More Blustery Back And Forth
Today was day two of the budget debate at the National Assembly Building in Belmopan. The leader of the opposition got the ball rolling on day one, and today his predecessor, the former PUP Leader Francis Fonseca took the lead. Fonseca, sporting a new look, took a familiar party line, saying the budget was a fraud. Here's some of the back and forth that followed:... Hon. Francis Fonseca, PUP Freetown: "This 2017-2018 budget is a fraud, it is a budget built on sand, it is a budget stitched together with obvious glaring creative manipulations of the numbers to create a UDP reality that does not exist for the Belizean masses, speaking plainly madam speaker, it is a budget that seeks to take the Belizean people for fool. Who feels it knows it and the Belizean people today are feeling the hardship and pain the current economic crisis that has engulfed our nation."

A Shyne In the Story
And while Caribbean Shores Kareem Musa threw his fair share of jabs at the budget, he also had plenty of firepower in reserve for the Barrow brothers: Shyne and Anwar. Here's what he dished on Shyne, followed by his Uncle's response:... Hon. Kareem Musa: "Then you have others like my brother Shyne, he has a certificate from the big house. These guys haven't gotten certified yet on this side. He has a certificate and every Belizean remembers that when he first came to Belize he wanted nothing to do with our beloved country. All he wanted was to get back to America. But now that he has been blocked out of America, guess what, he wants to run. Very interesting times ahead for the UDP indeed."

Family Says Chan Pine Ridge Skull May Be For Their Missing Loved One
Last Saturday Orange Walk police found a burnt skull at the dumpsite on the Chan Pine Ridge Road, but were unable to identify who it came from. No one had been reported missing in the area. The skull was taken to the Northern Regional Hospital for DNA testing, but the authorities had no one to match the results with. Well, a new lead may have turned up. Today the family of Israel Cruz, an Orange Walk resident, went to the media on Orange Walk. They told CTV-3 that heh has been missing since March 10th, and they they reported him missing days ago. But most concerning is that Cruz frequented that very same dump site to recycle bottles and plastic materials. Here's a translated version of what Cowo told CT3 V-today.

Pen Road Shooting
There was another shooting in Belize City last night. It happened just after 8:00 on Neal's Pen Road extension. 26-year-old Ron Myvette was shot in the back by a man who came up from behind. Myvette is in a stable condition. Our camera's caught police canvassing the area for expended shells.

Stakeholders Angry About New Citco/BTB Plans
For months now we've been reporting on the Tourism Board's plan to move tour guides, hair braiders, and food vendors from their spot just outside the Tourism Village into the Memorial Park. The service providers - who are all local interests - have been resisting it mightily. They say the move will cause them a total loss of business in a year that is already seeing a significant falloff in earnings. Last night the Tourism Board and the City Council had a meeting with stakeholders at the Memorial Park. Here are some of the viewpoints that were expressed:…

Mayor Says Stakeholders Running From Taxes
The BTB's Cruise Planning Representative Noriko Gamero would only say, quote, "we got great feedback and so we are adjusting as necessary." But Mayor Darrell Bradley was less cautious. He says this is all about taxes and fees, which everyone has to pay, but which the service providers are trying to run away from:… As the mayor indicated, the council is open to adjusting the rental fees.

PM Called Out Mayor, Mayor Incredulous
And while the mayor took that bull by the horns, he was far more careful when discussing a political hot potato that the Prime Minister put in his lap. 11 days ago when he presented the budget, the media caught the PM outside the House and we asked him about former UDP City Councilor Eric Chang. And that's where the PM told an interesting story: he said that even after the whole Citizen Kim affair blew up, Mayor Darrell Bradley still pushed for Chang to be on the UDP ticket in the next city council election. Well today we asked the mayor what that was all about. For context, we air the PM's disclosure first, followed by the Mayor's quite stunned reaction:...

Foreign Minister’s In Court Again
Viewers may not be aware but Foreign Affairs Minister Wilfred Elrington and his law firm, Pitts And Elrington, have been fighting a case in court since 2010. The dispute that he has with his former business partners is now ending up all the way at the Caribbean Court of Justice. It's private quarrel within the company Progresso Heights Limited over land and money. Elrington won at the Supreme Court, and the Appeal Court, but his opponents, the principals of Progresso Heights were not satisfied with the outcomes. So, they've approached the Caribbean Court of Justice, who has granted them leave to appeal.

TB Is Still A Health Issue
Tuberculosis is one of the world's deadliest bacterial diseases which has killed countless people throughout history. An estimated 10 million people contracted TB last year, and 95% of those who fell ill came from developing countries. 120 cases were diagnosed in Belize in 2016. But while the disease is extremely infectious and dangerous, it does not have to be life threatening. You may not know it, but there is a cure for TB. Which is why the Ministry of Health held the Tuberculosis Awareness Fair today. The fair was aimed at educating the public on the symptoms of TB as well as preventative measures. We spoke the the Ministry's TB Adherence Councilor, Kevin Mendez, about the even...

House Hijinks
Earlier on we showed you some of the meat of today's debate. But there's also what you might call the fat, and that's the sparring across the house floor which is when members hurl insults at each other under the microphones. It's not exactly exemplary parliamentary conduct, but it can be entertaining in a day of debates that runs for as long as 10 hours. Here's an example in an exchange between Francis Fonseca and Anthony Boots Martinez about votes and houses in Belama:

Latest on Fire In Pink’s Alley
Tonight about one dozen families are homeless, and as many as three dozen people have been dislocated after a fire that burnt the central apartment in one of the city's oldest low income neighborhoods, which is Pink's or Majestic Alley. The fire burnt out 8 units, four upstairs and four downstairs in the main apartment building and it also brunt three houses behind that. At this hour, temporary shelter is being arranged by CEMO and the Area Representative at St. Mary's Hall. Said Musa and The Grandmaster have been in the neighborhood living or working for four decades going on five, and they told us what's next, both for the investigation and for starting over...

Another Difficult Appeal Case
Earlier in the news we showed you judgements from The Court of Appeal for this current session which ended today. One of their last rulings was in a case brought by the Belize Bank Limited, which is not being allowed to enforce a 36 million dollar arbitration award that has been accruing interest since 2012. You may remember fight over the Belize Healthcare Partners Hospital, which used to be named Universal Health Services. In 2004, the then Prime Minister Said Musa entered into a 33 million dollar agreement with the Belize Bank over Universal Health Services. The Development Finance Corporation provided funding for UHS, but there was a shortfall, so the Belize Bank was approached to provide additional financing. The Bank agreed, but it wanted a government guarantee, which was given.

UDP’s From Toledo Protest
And finally tonight, a small story about the one protest that took place during the house debate. You might think it was against the government, but in fact it led by at about 50 to 75 Toledo residents. They went to the stairs of the National Assembly to protest against the two PUP representatives for Toledo East and West. They told us why:... The protest lasted for about an hour and a half, but we're not sure the Toledo Reps even knew about it.

Channel 5

Majestic Alley “Long Barracks” Goes Up in Flames, at least 10 Families Displaced
More than ten families are without homes tonight after a fire took down their houses and properties in the Majestic Alley in Belize City late this afternoon.  At news time [...]

Calaney Flowers Walks Free of Murder Charge
The budget debate proceeded today at the House in Belmopan. We will have all the highlights coming up, but we go to the Supreme Court which this morning delivered a [...]

“Boots” Defends Pro-Poor Programs at Day 2 of Budget Debate
Turning to the Budget Debate in the House of Representatives this morning…. After being seemingly overwhelmed and nettled by the force and ferocity of the Opposition People’s United Party’s response [...]

P.U.P.’s Francis Fonseca Says Government Can’t Hide Anymore
But the Opposition P.U.P. proved intractable, convinced that two Belizes exist and that they are further apart than ever before.  Leading off the Budget Debate this morning, former Opposition Leader [...]

Tracey Panton Says It Was a Good Year for Investment
Later, it was the turn of Albert area representative and Minister of State for Investment, Trade and Commerce, Tracey Taegar-Panton, to deliver a presentation marked mostly by technical numbers about [...]

Kareem Musa Scolds Prime Minister for Trying to “Flee” Economic Disaster
First-term area representative for Caribbean Shores, Kareem Musa, has become a noted debater in the House of Representatives. Today’s Budget presentation was no different as he touched on multiple topics [...]

Michael Finnegan Trashes P.U.P. Explanations for Superbond
In his usual inimitable style, Mesopotamia area representative Michael Finnegan hit back at the Opposition’s defense of the loans they made under their administration which have become the Superbond. Referencing [...]

Cordel Hyde, Kareem Musa Invite U.D.P.’s for a Walk on Southside
We’re not sure if they compared ideas before coming to Belmopan on Thursday, but two People’s United Party area representatives suggested similar methods for having the Government understand the plight [...]

Belize Bank May Go to C.C.J. to Challenge U.H.S. Judgement
Is the Belize Bank headed to the CCJ to force the application of an arbitral award against the Government of Belize?  It is perhaps the only option left, since the [...]

“Sedi” Elrington’s Progresso Heights Case Goes to the C.C.J.
A lawsuit filed against Foreign Minister Wilfred ‘Sedi’ Elrington and his law firm, Pitts and Elrington, will be heard in the Caribbean Court of Justice in the months ahead.  The [...]

Belize Takes Steps to Address Brazil Corned Beef Issue
Belizeans are lovers of corned beef; there are seven brands of corned beef on supermarket shelves.  There was a scare over the weekend when Brazil’s Secretariat of Animal and Plant [...]

Overnight Shooting Leaves Man Hospitalized
Overnight gun violence in the south side of Belize City has left one man hospitalized at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. Just minutes before eight p.m. on Thursday shots rang [...]

Toledo Soldier Tops Guyana Training Course
A B.D.F. soldier is making a name for himself in Guyana. Officer Cadet Francisco Choc was awarded best overall trainee in the Guyana Defence Force standards officers’ course.  Choc also [...]

Jose Mai Scorns Agriculture Ministry over Potatoes
Back to today’s budget debate….Orange Walk South area representative Jose Mai focused on the impact of the Budget – or lack thereof – on the productive sector, which he described [...]

Cordel Says U.D.P. Must Own “Its Corruption”
Lake I Representative, Cordel Hyde turned the tables on the U.D.P. on the issue of corruption in his budget presentation on Thursday. The U.D.P. has continuously shaken their fingers against [...]

What is True Unemployment Rate?
What is the real unemployment rate?  That’s the question you may want to ask and perhaps you will be no smarter after the following.  Now, the figures released from the [...]

Gaspar Vega Absent Again, But is He Making Up with Party?
Former Deputy Prime Minister Gaspar Vega once again skipped proceedings in Belmopan this week, marking the fifth consecutive meeting he has been absent from. Under the Standing Orders, more than [...]

Said Musa Raises Reported Dismissal of European Ambassador
Fort George Area Rep and Former Prime Minister, Said Musa, is always a must listen to during the debating of the budget and on Thursday during his presentation, he didn’t [...]

The Fight to End Tuberculosis in Belize
It’s World Tuberculosis Day around the world – it is a day designed to build public awareness that tuberculosis remains an epidemic in much of the world, causing the deaths [...]

LOVE FM

Standard and Poor Ups Belize’s Ratings Following Renegotiated Bond
Earlier this week we told you of the ratings placed on Belize by Standard and Poor’s Rating Agency with the understanding that a revised assessment would be conducted due to the recently restructured Superbond. The new ratings are in and we can tell you that the agency has upped the rating for Belize’s long term […]

Belize Puts Stop to Brazil’s Corned Beef Imports
The Government of Belize has decided to temporarily suspend the issuance of import permits for Corned Beef from Brazil. This comes after Brazilian Federal Police detected irregular practices involving certification of meat and meat products by staff members of the Ministry of Agriculture in 21 meat processing facilities that handled beef. According to the Government’s […]

Belize Chairs Sugar Subcommittee of ACP States
Belize has assumed the chairmanship of the Sugar Subcommittee of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States. Belize’s Ambassador to Belgium and the European Union, Dylan Vernon, assumed the chairmanship on Wednesday and is expected to quote “lead the ACP Sugar Subcommittee during a period of challenges for ACP sugar exporters like Belize.” End […]

Calaney Goes Free Following Death of Ex-Boyfriend in 2012
Calaney Flowers was acquitted of the murder of Lyndon Morrison. Supreme Court Judge Troadio John Gonzalez handed down his decision this afternoon and found Flowers not guilty. Flowers is accused of the August 28, 2012 murder of her ex-boyfriend, Lyndon Morrison, and the attempted murder of his girlfriend, Sochil Sosa. The two were allegedly rammed […]

Fires Spark in Caye Caulker and Majestic Alley
Firefighters in Caye Caulker Village began fighting a house fire at around five o’clock this evening. Up to news time the firemen were still at the scene ensuring that the embers had been extinguished so as to avoid further damages. Love News understands that the two-storey wooden structure belonged to a foreigner and was named […]

Revenue and Appropriation Bill 2017 Debated
Day two of the debate over the Revenue and Appropriations Bill is winding down in Belmopan. It is the highlight of the parliamentarian affairs in the National Assembly where thirty one elected representatives are allowed to speak on economic issues. Today’s proceedings got underway just after ten o’clock with the Freetown Area Representative, Francis Fonseca. His […]

Minister Panton Boasts of Advances in Productive Sector
The news coming out of the agriculture sector during today’s debate noted several advances that small and large scale farmers are reportedly benefiting either via export-aid or fiscal incentives. Albert’s Area Representative, Tracy Panton spoke of the productivity in this sector. As it relates to the sugar sector, Panton says that the farmers are being […]

Area Reps Get Heated Over Land Greed
Shortly after today’s debate got started there was a moment of high tension between Area Representatives Francis Fonseca and Anthony Martinez over the issue of land greed. Things got so heated that Mesopotamia’s Representative and the Speaker had to intervene.

Prevention and Control of Tuberculosis in 2017
Today Belize joined the international community in recognizing the achievements in the prevention and control of tuberculosis. This year’s World Tuberculosis Day was commemorated under the theme, “Unite to End TB”. A TB Awareness health fair took place at the Cleopatra White Polyclinic compound in Belize City where reporter Hipolito Novelo spoke to a health […]

Two Men Shot and Two Detained on Ambergris Caye
A shooting incident last night in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye has left two men injured and two others in police custody. According to reports, 18-year-old fisherman, Delson Paguada was walking towards his home in the San Mateo area when he said he heard gunshots and saw two men armed with what appeared to be nine […]

Amandala

Murder convicts to be considered for parole
Parliament is expediting passage of a suite of 4 bills as a part of criminal justice reform which would enable murder convicts to be considered for parole—a reform pushed in consequence of a legal challenge lodged at the Caribbean Court for Justice (CCJ) by murder convict Gregory August back in 2015 in the first criminal appeal filed with the CCJ from Belize. In April 2015, the CCJ agreed to hear August’s application as “a poor person,” to challenge his conviction for the 2009 murder of Alvin Alpheus Robinson, 73, for which August was sentenced to life behind bars.

The mysterious “Mr. Middleton” unmasked by Cassanova
The Auditor General’s Special Audit into the Passport, Visa and Nationality Departments of the Immigration Ministry revealed that 8 visa stickers were discovered missing from the Western Border in December 2012. A report from Immigration officer Vernon Leslie, reproduced in the audit, alleged that former Immigration officer Lindsay Wade had removed the stickers and given them to a man identified only as “Mr. Middleton,” who, he also alleged, was the common-law husband of Immigration officer Inez Cassanova. Middleton reportedly travelled to Belize City and sold the visas to former Deputy Mayor, Eric Chang, and the Council’s Financial Controller, Patrick Tillett.

Director of CITO lives in New York!
Last year, Candelaria Saldivar, former Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry responsible for Immigration and sister of Belmopan area representative John Saldivar, was put on early retirement after having received an estimated $100,000 in salary plus benefits while “chilling” for almost 19 months on paid leave. Today, Lake Independence area representative for the Opposition People’s United Party, Cordel Hyde, senior deputy leader of the party, said during his budget presentation that the wife of an ex-minister, assigned to a diplomatic post overseas as Consul General of Belize to New York, is still receiving her salary while accompanying her husband in the US.

Rotten corned beef controversy sparks ban on imports from Brazil
–Belize today joined a number of other Caribbean countries which have imposed a ban on imports of corned beef originating from Brazil, including cans of Grace corned beef, which could have been unscrupulously passed into trading networks, as a consequence of bribes allegedly paid to officials in Brazil to have unsanitary products approved. The Caribbean corned beef distributor, GraceKennedy, which sources beef from Brazil, announced that in full compliance with the directive of the Government of Jamaica, it has suspended sales of corned beef originating from Brazil and it immediately withdrew the product from the Jamaican market.

Bogus, not bold: Briceño answers Barrow on 2017 budget
Opposition Leader Johnny Briceño, People’s United Party member for Orange Walk Central, this morning opened the debate on the 10th budget tabled in Parliament by the Barrow administration, calling it bogus, and suggesting that the Government “cooked the books” to come up with the figures presented to the National Assembly. Last Monday, March 13, Prime Minister, Minister of Finance and Natural Resources, Dean Barrow, presented the proposed budget for the fiscal year 2017/2018, and the debate by the 31 members of the House of Representatives is scheduled for today and tomorrow.

Berne returns home from his travels with Broken Dreams
–Berne Velasquez is a special Belizean, who carries his artistic flame with a rarely found determination. Most Belizeans would be ashamed of being deported for attempting to enter the United States illegally and they would be silent about such an episode in their life. Not Berne Velasquez. He announced it to the world, turned it into art and created an album that he aptly titled Life After Deportation, released in 2008, when Berne stormed on Belize’s music scene. Between the release of that first album and now, Berne has moved worlds. He has landed minor and major roles in four international movies, filmed in Belize. Music, however, remains Berne’s passion and he has released a steady stream of works since his first album that propelled him into the consciousness of Belizean music lovers. As a man who has single-handedly sold over 200,000 of his own CDs, this puts him in a league all by himself.

NEBL “In the Paint”
In NEBL Thursday night action, the (4-3) Belmopan Bandits shocked league leading San Pedro Tiger Sharks by the final score of 71-69, thereby propelling themselves into a first-place two-way tie with arch-rivals Cayo Western Ballaz, who also won their game on Friday night. The Tiger Sharks had a seven-point lead with 9:46 remaining in the game, but the Bandits surged ahead, 60-58, at the 6:44 mark in the fourth quarter, behind back-to-back field goals by Greg Rudon (8 points 2 rebounds 1 assist). That set off an 11-0 Tiger Sharks run, which was sparked by a flurry of seven made free-throws, shared between Douglas Valley and George Williams, and capped by a deep trey by the latter, which gave them a 69-61 lead with just 3:32 remaining in regulation.

Simeon Lopez Kids, Youth & Female Cup 2017 Tournament in Belmopan
The Belmopan Football Association’s (BFA) Simeon Lopez Kids, Youth & Female Cup 2017 had another hectic weekend of games at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium. In the opener on Friday night, March 17, (U-17) it was Bandits, 3-0, over San Martin Medina, with goals from Jovaun Ramos (28’), Steven Gentle (46’) and Hollis Popper (55’). And in the nightcap, (U-17) Spanish Lookout FC and Piccini Rising Star played to a 1-1 draw. Evert Peralta (32’) put Spanish Lookout in front, but Joshawn Flowers (56’) replied for San Martin.

E.P. Yorke girls and San Pedro High boys
Edward P. Yorke High School girls & San Pedro High School boys won the National Secondary Schools Sports Association (NSSSA) softball championships, which were held in Belize City at Rogers Stadium on Friday and Saturday, March 17-18. On Friday, the 4 country-zone champions, in both female and male categories, clashed in the first-round knockout format. On Saturday, the losers played for third place, and then Friday’s winners clashed for the female (F) and male (M) championships.

Dangriga sports stats
The Stann Creek Football Association’s U-13 Smart Mundialito Tournament continued on Saturday, March 18, with Week 3 games at the Carl Ramos Stadium. In the 4 games played, Silk Grass dropped Ubafu, 3-1; Young Bombers won, 3-1, over Montise; Hopkins and South Side drew, 0-0; and New Site bombed Benguche, 5-0. The 2017 Dangriga Mayor’s Cup regular season got under way with 2 games each on Friday night, March 17, and Sunday, March 19, at the Carl Ramos Stadium. The Mayor’s Cup Tournament is also sanctioned under the Stann Creek Football Association and the Football Federation of Belize.

Editorial: Aikman, Ashcroft, and the atomic age
We have said to you before that in October of 1962, when the United States and the Soviet Union (U.S.S.R.) came this close to catastrophic nuclear war because of a quarrel over missile installations in Cuba, just a few hundred miles northeast of Belize, we Belizeans had no idea what was “going down.” In the Amandala issue of Tuesday, March 21, 2017, we reproduced an article from The New York Times issue of Friday, March 17, 2017, which revealed that video footage is now available on YouTube of thousands of nuclear tests carried out by the United States between 1945 and 1962 in Nevada (a state in the U.S.) and in the Marshall Islands (a formerly idyllic site in the central Pacific Ocean.)

From the Publisher
When I returned to Belize from college in June of 1968, no Belizean had ever attempted what I was setting out to do: write creatively as a profession. Zee Edgell, who became Belize’s first novelist with Beka Lamb, had been trained in London as a journalist and was editing The Reporter in 1968. It was a few years afterwards, in the 1970s, that she married, moved away from Belize, and decided to write creatively. My point is that, in 1968 I was going to be a pioneer of sorts. Family responsibilities soon forced me to take a job teaching English at Belize Technical College, but after the 1968/69 academic year, Technical and I parted ways. I was in the streets for two years before I taught at Wesley College during the 1971/72 academic year, and then I returned to the streets again, hard core.

Elrington’s outrageous statement
The Editor Amandala Sir, During a press meeting reported by Channel 5 on Friday, March 17, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the nation of Belize, the Hon. Wilfred Elrington, is quoted as saying, “Up to this present time we still don’t have internationally recognized borders.” I believe Channel 5 was kind in referring to this statement as “stunning”, but I don’t have to be kind, so I will refer to the statement as “outrageous.” From this statement, we can infer that our Constitution which defines the limits of our country is not recognized internationally either.

Charles Goff – Belize’s most dominant basketball center!
Belizean 1960s, 70s and 80s basketball has seen many a big man come through the middle on a Belizean basketball court; but through the lens of many Belizean sports enthusiasts, the Belizean basketball center of the great 1970s basketball team, Belikin, Charles Goff had made a serious impact on Belize’s basketball landscape. Depending on which way you want to look at it, Goff was one of Belize’s most domineering big men, under considerable pressure and opposition from others like J.J. Lynch and Emil Grinage of the legendary Belize basketball team, Happy Homebuilders. In our Belizean Legends interview with Goff last year, he remembered how it was when he was a novice under the shadows of the towering Wilton “Cama” Cumberbatch, who at that time stood more than six feet tall and taught him many basics in terms of how to dominate in the center. Goff reflected that he had to wait his turn as a junior member, of Cama’s team.

BELIZE’S FOOTBALL GREATNESS – RUPERT “CANALAYTE” ANDERSON!
Meeting the legendary Belizean football goalkeeper, Rupert Anderson, for the first time in person after seeing him play so many games as the “hard to score on” iron clad defense for first Landivar in the 1960s and early 70s, then Spurs, and later on White Label in the late1970s and early 80s, Belizean Legends embarked on one of the most ambitious productions to date two weeks ago to document the incredible story of one of Belize’s most celebrated athletes of all time. The keen vision of Belizean sports enthusiast and athlete, Evondale “Coby” Coburn, who invited yours truly to Florida to chronicle the life and times of the man they called “Canalayte,” Rupert Anderson, has got to be appreciated here. Being a visionary in many ways, Coby saw the story and pressed me urgently since the long time Belizean goalkeeper has been ailing, and found it very important that Anderson’s classic work as probably Belize’s best goalkeeper of all times be respected and not be forgotten.

Post traumatic syndrome, attention deficit disorder, and severe disabilities in children growing up in violent societies like Belize!
This is an urgent call to action to address the effects of trauma on children born and raised in communities wracked by gang warfare and day-to-day violence in Belizean society. The trauma effects on Belizean children living in violent communities like Belize City and other similar municipalities across the country like Dangriga, Orange Walk Town, and Cayo to mention just a few, has paralleled that of the inner cities of the United States and other countries in Central America and the Caribbean that have seen trauma become a serious factor in the learning disabilities of children.

Hon. Cordel Hyde eulogizes Philip Palacio
Family, friends and colleagues of former politician and attorney-at-law, Philip Palacio, poured into the St. Ignatius Church in Belize City for a mass of thanksgiving for his life. The up-tempo celebration of his life was marked by the blending of Garifuna drums and the soulful presentations of a Garifuna choir. During the early morning of March 7, Palacio a husband, father to four and a grandfather to one, passed away while receiving treatment at a medical facility at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA).

Almost half of remanded prisoners couldn’t afford bail
According to the Chief Executive Officer of the Belize Central Prison, Virgilio Murillo, almost half of the 474 persons who were remanded to prison during 2016 were there for bailable offences. Data published in the 2016 Ombudsman’s report gave a breakdown of the categories for which persons were on remand, and pointed to lengthy remand times of as many as 10 years. Of the persons remanded, 251 were there for murder, for which they cannot seek bail. Additionally, there were 83 remanded for crimes of dishonesty, which include theft, burglary, robbery and handling stolen goods.

The Reporter

Raging fires in Belize City, Caye Caulker
Fire officials have finished mopping up two fires in Belize City, one of which left numerous families homeless; while another blaze in Caye Caulker destroyed two buildings. Sometime around 4:00 p.m., a fire started at a wooden building near a basketball court in Pinks (Majestic) […]

MOH observes World TB Day
Key departments of the Ministry of Health gathered for a health fair today, to educate the public on Tuberculosis, in commemoration of World Tuberculosis Day. The Ministry held the health fair on the Cleopatra White Poly Clinic II compound, in Belize City. The Ministry gathered […]

Calaney Flowers walks!
After five years on remand at the Belize Central Prison on a charge of ‘murder’ and ‘attempted murder’, Calaney Flowers is finally free. Justice Troadio Gonzalez handed down the verdict today, saying that Flowers could go free, but warned that there is a possibility she […]

Culture is the key to better bilateral relations, says Cuban Ambassador
Since her arrival in Belize, Ambassador Extraordinaire and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Cuba to Belize, Her Excellency Lissette Perez, has been touring the country with the intent of strengthening bilateral relations. Perez explained that the tours have been largely to familiarize herself with Belize, […]

OAS Commission investigation into Danny Conorquie murder
The same set of international investigators who delved into the shooting death last year of Guatemalan, Julio Alvarado, 13, in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve is now investigating the murder of Belizean Special Constable, Danny Conorquie. He was shot dead at the Caracol Archaeological Reserve in […]

Trouble looming for the sugar industry
The sugar industry in Belize is under increased pressure in 2017, in light of a decision by the European Union (EU) to remove the limitation that it had placed on beet sugar produced within the EU. On October 1, beet farmers in the EU will […]

Belize’s borders not recognized, Foreign Minister says
Belize’s borders are not recognized, not by Guatemala or the international community, Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington said last week. Elrington was speaking to reporters following the visit to Belize by Secretary General of the Organization of American States, Luis Almagro. “We have got to complete […]

NEMO provides homes for Albert fire victims
Fire victims in the Albert constituency this week received new homes provided by the Ministry responsible for the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO). On Monday, Minister responsible for NEMO, Edmond Castro handed out the homes to three families who lost their homes in the Conch […]

Introducing Barton Middleton
The Senate Select Committee learned this week, that the mysterious “Mr. Middleton,” who has been named in several testimonies as a key player in a visa fraud scheme being investigated at the Immigration and Nationality Department, is Barton Lee Middleton of Orange Walk. Immigration Officer, […]

A billion more in debt! Legacy forecasts
Belize needs structural reforms to avoid racking up another $1 billion in debt, according to projections made by financial advisory firm, Legacy Fund Ltd. On Thursday, Legacy, in collaboration with the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), held its quarterly meeting with the private […]

NTUCB gets new president
Christian Workers Union (CWO) General Secretary, Floyd Neal, is the new president of the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB). Neal took up the position at an Extraordinary General Meeting of the NTUCB, held on Saturday, March 18. Neal had only one opponent for […]

GOB gets 10 million US poverty alleviation cash
The Government of Belize, this week, got a US $10 million loan through the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) to provide services to poor and vulnerable communities across Belize. The loan, which was recently approved, is to support the strengthening of the Belize Social Investment Fund (BSIF), which […]

Brother hacks sister to death
A young Belize City mother was gruesomely chopped to death on Sunday night, allegedly by her own brother Elijah Blake, who was been detained by police for the shocking murder. The incident happened outside of 29-year-old Julian Blake’s St. Peter’s street home. Police say that on March […]

Orange Walk man dies in RTA
A 23-year-old man from Orange Walk died in a road traffic accident this week, after his motorcycle collided into a white pickup truck. Matthew Bull, a resident of Yo Creek Village, was travelling on the Philip Goldson Highway towards Orange Walk Town, around 8:00 a.m., […]

Missing fisherman found dead at sea
The body of a 51-year-old fisherman of a Sandhill Village address, who was reported missing at sea earlier this week, was discovered floating near Alligator Caye on Wednesday night. Barrington Rosales’ lifeless body was discovered in a mangrove area on the southern section of Alligator […]

17 year old stabbed in Caye Caulker
A San Pedro man who tried to evade Caye Caulker police is facing a charge of wounding after it is alleged that he stabbed a 17-year-old boy multiple times in Caye Caulker last Sunday. The minor, of a Belize City address, reported to police that on Sunday, […]

Editorial
If Belize is looking to create new start-up businesses from among native Belizeans it would be wise to amend the General Sales Tax Law so that start-up businesses can have some breathing room to grow. The General Sales Tax, effective as it has been, is not friendly to start-ups because […]

Body parts found in bag, head missing
San Ignacio police are investigating a grizzly murder, in which a yet unidentified woman was dismembered. Police are now hoping to find the body’s missing head to identify the victim. Residents in Blackman Eddy Village made the first horrific discovery on Tuesday, when a sack […]

PUP blasts budget on day one of debate
The People’s United Party (PUP) started day one of the debate on the national budget, taking strong positions against the Government of Belize on several issues. PUP Leader, John Briecño indirectly accused the government of tampering with statistics, saying that the projections of growth in […]

“Bully beef” ban?
The Government of Belize, through the Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA), has placed a temporary ban on contaminated corned beef products coming from Brazil, Belize’s main supplier of the “bully beef”. Belize has taken steps to block affected imports from entering the country and has […]

Breaking Belize News

Belize, One of the world’s most obese countries
Belize is one of the world’s most obese countries according to an article on GazetteReview.com. “It’s always worrying to see a country quickly climb a list of the fattest countries like this. While the obesity problem in countries like Egypt has been pretty widely […]

“My Ministry is best Ministry & Belizean people believe in the UDP,” says Boots Martinez
At the budget debate yesterday, Minister of Human Development and Social Transformation, Anthony “Boots” Martinez told parliament that he believes that his Ministry is the best Ministry in all of government. Boots stated that his Ministry has helped thousands of Belizean people and has […]

Fire in Belize City leaves 16 families homeless today
Sixteen families are distraught tonight as their home with everything that they own went up in flames earlier today. A mid afternoon fire gutted almost a whole neighborhood this afternoon in Belize City. The inferno occurred around 4:30 this evening and destroyed a long barracks […]

Woman walks free from murder trial
Calaney Flowers, accused of causing the death of Lyndon Morrison in 2012, is today, a free woman. Supreme Court Judge Tradio Gonzalez, dismissed the case today freeing her from a single count of murder, and one count of attempted murder, against Sochel Sosa. Gonzalez warned […]

Luxurious Wyndham Hotel group to open new hotel in Belize
Picture: Hotel News ResourceThe Wyndham Hotel Group has revealed plans to manage a luxurious 242 room Wyndham Grand Ambergris Caye. This will be the first resort in Belize to fly the Wyndham Grand flag. The five star oceanfront resort is scheduled to open in […]

John Saldivar salutes and honors Women in the Ministry of Defense
Minister of Defense, John Saldivar, this morning addressed a gathering of women who work within the ministry. The event was organized as part of International Women’s Month activities under the theme, “Women in the Changing World of Work: Planet 50-50 by 2010”. In his […]

Belize’s credit rating improves
Standard & Poor’s Global Rating agency raised Belize’s long-term foreign currency rating yesterday to B- from SD (Selective Default) following completion of the restructuring of the 2034 Bonds. S&P says the outlook is stable. S&P also raised the country’s short term foreign currency rating […]

“Mr. Middleton” finally identified
After months of probing, the Senate Select Committee has finally identified the elusive “Mister Middleton.” According to the Auditor General’s report, Middleton was the man who the Patrick Tillett paid $3,000 each per visas stolen from the Immigration Department allegedly by Immigration Officer, Lindsay […]

Former Minister’s wife allegedly collecting salary without working
During yesterday’s budget debate, PUP Deputy Leader, Cordel Hyde, claimed that the Director of the Central Information Technology Office (CITO), Michelle Longsworth, lived in New York with her husband. Her husband, Former Minister of Sports, Herman Longsworth, was appointed as Consul General of Belize to […]

BDF officer is #1 in Guyana
Officer Cadet Francisco Choc of the Belize Defence Force (BDF) was awarded the best student overall in the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Standard Officers Course (SOC), according to a Government of Belize press release. “Choc, who hails from Dolores Village in the Toledo District, […]

Police issue official report on last night shooting in Belize City
s According to police reports, at around 8:08 p.m. last night, cops responded to a shooting incident on Neal’s Pen Road extension where they met 26-year-old Ron Myvette, a food vendor of Faber’s Road Extension. Myvette was seen suffering from a gunshot injury to […]

Two men shot in San Pedro Town last night
Last night police visited the San Mateo area of San Pedro where they saw 18-year-old Delson Paguada, a fisherman of San Mateo suffering from a gunshot wound to his right armpit. Paguada was taken to the San Pedro Polyclinic where 30-year-old Leroy Goff also […]

Grandma busted with crack
This week an elderly woman appeared in court after she was busted with crack-cocaine. Our colleagues at 7News reported that 67 year old Ida Simpson, a resident of Gan’s Rest House in Belize City was busted last week Friday with 0.6 grams of crack-cocaine. […]

PUP blasts 2017/2018 budget
Today, Area Representative for Freetown, Francis Fonseca blasted the Government’s new 2017/2018 budget. According to Fonseca, the new budget for the fiscal year has no real developmental projects, no new projects for development, and no manufacturing projects. Fonseca said that the country has seen […]

2016 was phenomenal year for Belize’s Investment & Trade Ministry says Tracy Panton
At today’s budget presentation, Minister with responsibility for Investment, Trade and Commerce, Tracy Taegar Panton said that 2016 was a phenomenal year in her Ministry. Panton stated that her Ministry promoted investment and completed many projects successfully that were suggested by the public sector. […]

Belize Assumes Chairmanship of the ACP Subcommittee on Sugar
H.E Dr. Dylan Vernon, Ambassador of Belize to Belgium and the European Union (EU), assumed the chairmanship of the Sugar Subcommittee of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (ACP) on Wednesday, March 22nd, according to a Government of Belize press release. “Ambassador […]

BAHA warns of tainted corned beef
Yesterday, the Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) and the Ministry of Health met with all importers of corned beef to discuss the recent tainted corned beef issue in Brazil. The meeting was held to ensure that corned beef in the Belizean market is safe for […]

Elrington says PUP wrote book on corruption
Yesterday, Wilfred Elrington, Area Representative for the Pickstock Division and Minister of Foreign Affairs told Parliament that the book on corruption in relation to visas and passports was written by the People’s United Party (PUP). Elrighton was responding to PUP Parliamentarian Cordel Hyde who […]

Blogs

Belizean Johnny Cakes
This tasty bread is one of the most ubiquitous and popular dishes served in Belize. Commonplace on every Belizean’s breakfast table, Johnny cakes are, in effect, the local version of pancakes or toast, served alongside other dishes or topped with meat, cheese, and/or beans.

Belizeans are left without a consulate since the first day of December of 2016
The government of Belize did not renew the contracts of Quintana Roo, Yucatan, Veracruz, Monterrey, consulate in Belize. So, now the citizens will have to carry out any traffic in Mexico City. Chetumal, Q, Roo, the honorary consulate of Belize in Chetumal did not have a representative since the first day of December of 2016, leaving the citizens of that nation who daily enter the state on the Mexican-Belize border vulnerable. Jorge Valencia Gomez, former honorary consul of the neighboring country the state capital, indicated that his government did not renew the contracts of this entity as well as of Yucatan, Veracruz and Monterrey.

Why You Have to Visit San Ignacio Belize on Your Vacation
Originally a small village of logging camps and chicle farmers, San Ignacio and its twin town of Santa Elena have grown to become a thriving metropolitan area in the western part of the country. Close to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tikal just over the border in Guatemala as well as several of Belize’s most prominent Mayan ruins, San Ignacio is a popular tourist destination. San Ignacio is the de facto capital of the western Cayo District. Along with its twin town Santa Elena, San Ignacio is built on the banks of the Macal River and form the second-largest municipal district in the country after Belize City.

International Sources

CROCODILE CRAFTS FOR KIDS!
Can we say "ahhhh" in the spirit of World Croc Day!?! Here are some great croc arts and crafts for your kids, and we can guarantee these and more will be at the celebration of World Croc Day at The Belize Zoo on June 17, as well as all the other locations celebrating around the world! Join the Crocodile Research Coalition, The Belize Zoo and croc enthusiasts around the world in celebrating these magnificent animals!

Several Cancun restaurants close in wake of extortion attempts
With a series of attacks against restaurants in Cancun, organized crime is sowing terror stemming from the indifference and inefficiency of law enforcement authorities that have failed to stop the insecurity that is taking over this tourist destination. Just this week, at least four restaurant torchings have been reported in an alleged pressure attempt to collect extortion payments.

S&P ups Belize rating following completion of debt restructuring
On March 23, 2017, S&P Global Ratings raised its long-term foreign currency rating on Belize to 'B-' from 'SD' (selective default). In addition, we raised the short-term foreign currency rating to 'B' from 'D'. At the same time, we raised the long-term local currency rating to 'B-' from 'CC' and the short-term local currency rating to 'B' from 'C'. The outlook on the long-term foreign and local currency ratings is stable. We also raised our rating on the bonds included in the sovereign's debt exchange to 'B-' from 'D'. These rating actions follow Belize's announcement on March 21 that the proposed amendments to the terms of the U.S. dollar bonds due in 2038 took effect following the acceptance by creditors holding 88% of such bonds. The ratings on Belize reflect the government's still-high debt burden, offset somewhat by its improved amortization and debt service profile in the next three years.

ETBU students spend vacation time in service
East Texas Baptist University students spent their spring break serving others with the love of Christ in a jungle of Belize, St. Tammany Parish of Louisiana, and on South Padre Island in Texas. Ten ETBU students led by Lisa Seeley, director of global education and the Great Commission Center, recovered water wells and shared their faith in Otoxha, Belize, a remote jungle village without electricity or running water. "Seeing how different our cultures are was eye-opening," ETBU sophomore Abbey Sturdivant said. "Even though we are so different, we are all equal in the eyes of God."

Beliceños se quedan sin consulado en la entidad
No Belizean consulate in Chetumal. El consulado honorario de Belice en Chetumal no cuenta con representante desde el primero de diciembre de 2016, quedando vulnerables los ciudadanos de esa nación que ingresan diariamente al estado por la Frontera de México-Belice. Jorge Valencia Gómez, ex cónsul honorario del vecino país en la capital del estado, indicó que su gobierno no renovó los contratos tanto de esta entidad como de Yucatán, Veracruz y Monterrey.

Belize is number 3 on the fat list
No surprise. Let me tell you some alternative facts. It's not alternative news. There are many cultural reasons we could use to explain this but it's more than just our appetite for rice and high carb foods. Poverty is an issue. Yes we are the working poor. So cheap fast food such as fried chicken and tacos; cheap processed food such as luncheon meat, Dak, spam, luncheon meat and the holy grail which we all know is Ramen. But without cheap food our presumedly healthy options aren't healthy either. Saturday in some parts of the country is barbecue day. But the sauce is sweet from added sugar and so is the coleslaw. People say oh but "it's not white it's brown sugar so it's healthier." That's like taking drugs and saying "oh it's not crack its regular cocaine so it's better."

Videos

March 24, 2017

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Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, West Vision (Cayo) and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials

The San Pedro Sun

Shooting in the San Mateo Area
The San Pedro Sun has confirmed a shooting in the San Mateo Area. According to reports, after Delson Paguada was shot at his home, he pursued his attacker who he shot in the back. Both men were transported to the Dr. Otto Rodriguez Polyclinic II for primary treatment. Both were flown to the Karl Huesner Memorial Hospital in Belize City for further treatment. Police are at the scene and investigations are on going.

Tiger Sharks fall to third place after loss to Belmopan Bandits
With only four weeks remaining in the Pepsi National Elite Basketball League (NEBL) regular season, the San Pedro Tiger Sharks are looking to advance to the playoffs. However, after a recent 69-71 loss to the Belmopan Bandits, they have dropped to third place with 12 accumulative points, while Cayo Western Ballaz is tied with the Belmopan Bandits with 13 points in the league. On Thursday, March 16th, the Tiger Sharks faced the Belmopan Bandits at the University of the Belize’s (UB) gymnasium. The Tiger Sharks took a 13-10 lead in the first quarter. During an intense match in the second quarter, the Bandits went to halftime leading with three points. In the third quarter, the Tiger Sharks made a comeback, gaining a five-point lead, 56-51. In the last seconds of the game, the Tiger Sharks attempted to tie the game and head to overtime, but fell short of a two-pointer, causing the Bandits to win 71-69.

Disturbing cruelty towards crocodiles raise concerns for ACES
It’s a normal routine for Chris Summers of the American Crocodile Education Sanctuary (ACES) to rescue and remove crocodiles whenever reports are made. However, after two similar reports revealed crocodiles with their snouts intentionally bound, Summers is hoping that this is not a new trend. As a result, ACES is imploring the general public to stop animal cruelty, explaining that these reptiles are essential to the health of the world’s ecosystems. According to Summers, one crocodile was found in horrific conditions. “Somebody called us at the Train Station Gym on Saturday, March 18th about a crocodile lying around, with its mouth shut with tape and wire. My team responded, and we caught him quite quickly. The croc looked weak, in distress, and seemed like it hadn’t eaten for a few months. Somebody did this on purpose, its mouth was not only taped shut with a lot of tape, it was also tied with a lot of wire. It is disgusting to do this. The poor croc also suffered some very nasty wounds, inflicted by another croc, while it was unable to defend itself,” said Summers. The crocodile is currently in an emergency holding pen, and Summers hopes that this seven-and a half foot animal can survive. According to him, it’s too soon to tell.

Stakeholders believe proposed increase in departure fee threatens tourism industry
The decision by the Government of Belize (GOB) to increase the departure fee for non-Belizeans flying out of the country has raised concerns within the tourism sector. The introduction of the new fee is part of Government’s move to raise an additional $80 million in tax revenues for the new fiscal year that commences in April 1st. Stakeholders believe proposed increase in departure fee threatens tourism industryOne of the tourism organizations strongly opposing to the new fee is the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA). They believe that this change in the departure tax will damage the tourism industry and claim that they were not consulted in such decision. They are asking the Government to withdraw the proposal. In a press release on Wednesday, March 15th, the BTIA stated that the potential negative impacts to the tourism industry through an increase in the departure tax has not been properly analysed nor have industry stakeholders been consulted. “Belize is already a tourist destination with high costs in comparison to the region. Belize must remain competitive, not more expensive as a destination.”

Ambergris Today

Pic of the Week: Makes You Want To Skydive San Pedro, Right?
WOW! With a spectaclar view like this everybody will want to skydive; right? NO? Well the offer stands at Skydive San Pedro if you every get the courage to take the giant leap. Many have taken the opportunity to experience the thrill of a lifetime since the skydiving company opened its doors on the island. DO YOU DARE? Amber sure did; watch her experience HERE!

Local Sanpedrano Guillermo Rodriguez Shoots For Musical Career
Born and raised in this beautiful island of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize, Guillermo Rodriguez found his love for music at the tender age of 12. He began singing at only 15 years old. After graduating high school he worked at the Christian Lighthouse Radio and in 2013 his passion towards music and love for God lead him to study Christian Ministry and music in the city of Guatemala; graduating in 2016. Guillermo explains that his love for music came when his mother became diagnosed with cancer. Their trust and faith in God was what got him through that hard time and then, as he calls it, “the miracle” happened - his mother was diagnosed cancer free. He tells Ambergris Today that his music journey began when he was in class one day and his teacher asked for a volunteer to record a song. He quickly rose to the occasion; Guillermo was to record one song but never imagined he would end up recording ten. He stated that he never thought he would ever record an album, but when the opportunity arose he was ready.

A Call To Protect Belize’s Manatees
Belize is home to the largest population of Antillean Manatees in the world! But since the start of 2017 alone, a total of 7 manatees have been reported dead. “It is important for us as Belizeans to help protect this endangered species before it's too late. Listen to what you can do to be a "Hu-manatee-arian"! #ToLoveandProtectBelize.” - Oceana Belize It is being asked of boaters on the Belize River and rivers across the country to be aware that as the dry season progresses into April and May and river levels get lower, saltwater pushes further upriver, especially at high tide; the manatees tend to travel further upriver in small and large groups to drink fresh water. They are air-breathing marine mammals and need to be at the surface periodically.

Misc Belizean Sources

Belmopan eradication program for dogs
March 27- April 9

Ministry of Health Wants You to “Unite to End TB” on World Tuberculosis Day
The Ministry of Health will once again join the global community in observing World Tuberculosis (TB) Day on March 24th, 2017. This year’s theme is “Unite to End TB”. The focus is to increase awareness of the TB national response among patients and healthcare providers in order to strengthen the active surveillance of TB to improve diagnosis and treatment in Belize. This year, health regions across the country will be hosting various public information sessions including TB talks, ‘Morning Show’ appearances and booth displays to share information.

Central Park gets its annual facelift....here's a peek!

Protest outside House Meeting
Less than a hundred protesters from Toledo have gathered outside the The National Assembly where the House Meeting is ongoing. They are protesting their dissatisfaction with PUP Toledo representatives Oscar Requena and Mike Espat. According to the protesters' signs and posters, they are "demanding that Requena and Espat open their offices and to use the GOB community funds on the people of Toledo".

Fly In 2017
Pictures from the Fly In, which was in Spanish Lookout. "The Cayo Air Show had skydiving, aerial acrobatics, crop dusters showing off, and lots of great food, thanks to Miss Deb's. Lots of pictures of the sky..."

Operation Clean Up Caye Caulker
Caye Caulker Village Council Cordially invites all Community Members to Participate in our Beach Clean Up Campaign. Please come out and lend a helping hand. Bring your rake, bring you gloves and come out!

Caye Caulker Village Council Golden Citizen Property Tax Discount
Caye Caulker Village Council cares for our Golden Citizens and to show we care, we are now offering a Golden Citizen Tax Discount. Come into our office for details

Belize’s Position on Tainted Corned Beef
The Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) and the Ministry of Health met today with all importers of Corned Beef to discuss the recent tainted Corned Beef issue in Brazil, and the adherence to measures that will be applied to ensure that Corned Beef in the Belizean market is safe for consumption. In an effort to safeguard public safety BAHA has decided to implement with immediate effect the following measures: For Importation: 1. Temporary suspension of the issuance of import permits for Corned Beef from Brazil until all due diligence have concluded and source declared safe. 2. All Corned Beef en-route to Belize will be retained to verify that they come from approved facilities for export and in addition undergo laboratory analysis by BAHA to determine the product’s wholesomeness for human consumption. 3. All corned beef already imported and held in warehouse locally will be quarantined and undergo laboratory analysis by BAHA to determine the product’s wholesomeness for human consumption.

Creole Culture Presentation
As a part of its mandate to create child and family friendly educational initiatives, the Child Advisory Body (CAB) of Belmopan is hosting its first cultural activity. This will be held on Sunday March 26th, 2017 from 3pm to 6 pm at the Independence Park. CAB will be showchasing the CREOLE CULTURE

San Pedro Town's Central Park gets a paint facelift!
We would like to thank the volunteers of Projects Abroad and our SPTC employees for a job well done on painting the benches and planters - all in one day! Great team work! Thank you guys!

Belize participates in Outsource2LAC 2017 – San Jose, Costa Rica
As technology continues to evolve globally, the demand for Information Technology Enabled Services (ITES) simultaneously continues to escalate opening a gateway for Belize as a competitive nearshore and offshore services destination in fostering numerous investment opportunities in the Outsourcing industry. As Belize’s national trade and investment promotion agency, the Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE), along with twenty (20) additional delegates from trade promotion agencies in Latin America and the Caribbean, participated in the 6th Latin American and Caribbean Outsourcing and Offshoring Summit, Outsource2LAC, held in San Jose, Costa Rica on March 15 – 16, 2017. This year’s event was organized by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and Costa Rica’s Trade Promotion Agency, ProComer, which sought to foster this prominent sector through seminars on the latest trends in global outsourcing and Business to Business (B2B) meetings between buyers and service providers.

PROTEST OUTSIDE PARLIAMENT AGAINST HON. MIKE ESPAT & HON. OSCAR REQUENA
Constituents from the Toledo district were up in arms outside the House of Representatives protesting, not the budget, but the absence of their Area Representatives, Hon. Mike Espat and the Hon. Oscar Requena, in the division. Protests signs read "5 years and no sight of Mike" "do your job" "go to the office" "The people are being robbed by Mike Espat and Oscar Requana" Protestors claim Espat and Requena are no shows at the office and have not been doing anything to help the people in the division.

BSCAP CEO SHYNE BARROW SAYS MUSICIANS MUST BE PAID; COMES OUT AGAINST BUSINESSES VIOLATING COPYRIGHT ACT
Ambassador Shyne Barrow, who also serves as CEO of the Belizean Society of Composers Authors & Publishers, came out strong against copyright violators. Barrow says "the public should be outraged at the blatant violation of the law." In his quarterly letter to BSCAP members Barrow says "it's really a shame that musicians don't get the respect they deserve in this country" "Historically, copyright infringement has gone without penalty in Belize, thus the reason for resistance from some of these corporations." "Copyright acts around the world call for corporations who use music to pay and our tariffs and fees are guided by regional and international standards, so corporations in Belize need to comply with the law as do other corporation in the region and the world."

Sarteneja Nazarene Primary School's Field Trip
Educational Trip to Mountain Pine Ridge and Spanish Lookout.

Coastal Awareness Week
he Wildtracks Outreach Team is joining Belize's Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute, the Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development and other partners today at the Corozal Community College in Corozal, as part of Coastal Awareness Week. Engaging and empowering youths through knowledge is critical if Belize is to meet its goals in maintaining the species, ecosystem services and livelihoods that are tightly linked to the coastal and marine environment. From knowledge of the watersheds to an understanding of the threats facing marine mammals such as the Antillean manatee. Knowledge builds good stewardship - and for some students, they may take their first steps towards being better stewards today, based on information they learn from the conservation organizations here today...

Beneath the Sea - Visit our Belize Booth!
Visit the BHA at booth 643 at the Beneath the Sea Show in Secaucus, New Jersey this weekend March 24, 25 and 26. Start planning your amazing Belize vacation with us!

Austrian Government requests removal of Belize’s Ambassador to Austria
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sedi Elrington confirmed today that the Austrian Government requested the removal of Belize’s Ambassador to Austria. Elrington, however, reported that no reason was given by Austria as to why they wanted Ambassador Joel Nagel removed. Foreign Minister Elrington was responding to a question from former Prime Minister of Belize, Said Musa during today’s budget debate House meeting. Musa had earlier alleged that Belize’s Ambassador to Austria had to be removed as “he was doing banking business there rather than ambassadorial duties”. Joel Nagel was appointed by Elrington’s Foreign Ministry as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Austria in September 2015. He was also appointed as Belize’s Permanent Representative to United Nations offices in Vienna.

BTL interruption Sunday March 26 in Belize Districe
Belize Electricity Limited advises its customers in the Belize District that the supply of electricity will be interrupted on Sunday, March 26, 2017 as follows:

Belize Raptor Center Open for Tours
The BRC is doing tours of their bird sanctuary! They've been all over Cayo, and Belize, educating students all about raptors, and now you can go to their main campus. "Did you know there is a facility in Cayo that specializes in the care of hawks, eagles, owls, falcons, kites, vultures and Osprey? BRC focuses on educating the next generation of conservation superstars to protect these magnificent creatures as well as provide medical and rehabilitation care when one is found injured or orphaned. In order to reach a larger audience and make a BIGGER impact we now offer engaging and adventurous tours at our facility. Please contact us to set up a tour today, via email belizeraptorcenter@gmail.com, phone 615-0226 or through our messenger.

Paradise Theater playing this weekend
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, The Devil's Candy, 20th Century Women, Resident Evil.

Channel 7

Briceno Buries Budget
The Prime Minister presented the 2017/2018 budget on March 13th - and the debate started 10 days later. The two day event is the highlite of the annual parliamentary calendar because almost all of the 31 members present on the budget. They can speak for as long as they want, and many of the representatives go on for extended periods about all that's good or bad in the budget. The Leader of the Opposition always starts it off with his response to the budget. This year, he outdid the Prime Minister, with a presentation that lasted for one hour and eighteen minutes, about half an hour longer than the PM. Briceno keyed in on what he said are major omissions in the budget:.. Hon. John Briceno, Leader of the Opposition: "They present a budget that offers no plan to help the still struggling productive sector. They will not build one new school; they will not reduce poverty by even a fraction of a percent. No ordinary Belizean will benefit from anything contained in this budget."

Barrow Breaks Form to Correct Briceno
And so, that presentation got the ball rolling. The Prime Minister will wind up the debate sometime tomorrow. That's when he usually rebuts all the major points made by opposition members and puts it all into one compressed presentation. But, today he broke form right after the opposition leader was finished. He said there was just one thing that was so glaring, that he could not leave it to stand unchecked. IT was a very unusual point of order - and here's how it went:... Hon. John Briceno, Leader of the Opposition: "The Prime also told the media that the bond restructuring fees, now listen, to the bond holders local and foreign advisors added to around 12 million dollars. We have now come to learn from the budget estimate itself, in CAP 2 expenditures for the Ministry of Finance - that the bond restructuring fee will amount to 20 million dollars. 8 million more than he led us to believe."

Saldivar Swipes At Briceno
After that brief digression, the debate resumed, with John Saldivar giving his response to the Leader of the Opposition. He always gets the job of responding to the PUP Leader, and this year he said Briceno missed the boat completely:... Hon. John Saldivar: "And he spoke about, no ordinary Belizean is going to benefit from this budget, but yet he goes on to say that we have sustain our pro-poor programs at the end he even offered that if we wish to increase, if we want to bring a supplemental budget here to increase these programs, that he would be happy..."

PUP Deputy Leader Lathers Barrow Budget
The PUP Deputy Leader Cordel Hyde came up next, and he said that despite what Saldivar has put out there, there are difficult days ahead, particularly for the poor and vulnerable:... Hon. Cordel Hyde- Area Rep, Lake I: "If you listen to those on the other side of the house: we should be happy because there will be no retrenchment this year and no wage freeze and no business tax increase; and don't get us wrong, you know, we are happy for our public officers and our business persons for this little break, but just because we have averted these possible calamities doesn't mean a more enduring catastrophe isn't about to take place. The truth is madam speaker, we have some difficult days ahead.

He Killed Christie, Appeal Court Says He Was Provoked, Reduces Sentence
6 days ago, we told you about convicted killer Osmar Sabido who went to the Court of Appeal to get his conviction for murder reduced to manslaughter. Well, the Court of Appeal said yes to that today - sending shockwaves across Orange Walk town. The panel of judges found that Justice Herbert Lord did not factor in that Sabido was provoked into viciously stabbing his common-law wife, 21 year-old Christie Carrasco to death. As we told you, Justice Lord found him guilty of murder in a trial without jury last year April. But his attorneys, Leeroy Banner and Oscar Selgado, went to the Appeal Court to argue that Sabido wasn't in his right mind when he killed his common-law wife. You'll remember that Sabido testified in the trial last year that the fight started when Carrasco told him that she thinks that she is pregnant for another man.

The Tangled Case of Titan’s Big Money
Another big case that went to the Court of Appeal this week is the Government's attempt to get a 8.8 million dollar award of damages set aside. As we told you, the Bahamians, Rohn Knowles and Kelvin Leach, have sued the Government and won a judgement at the Supreme Court. Justice Courtney Abel has determined that the September 2014 raid on their Titan Securities office was excessive and abusive, and that they were entitled to compensation. The Government disagrees with the court, and they believe that they should get no compensation, because their company was worthless after their criminal indictment for securities fraud and the ongoing suspension of their trade licenses by the US authorities. Titan disagrees, and they say that the Government is disregarding the damage they did with that police raid.

Well Known Sandhill Fisherman Disappears, Body Turns Up Drowned
A well-known Sandhill fisherman drowned at sea over the weekend. 51 year old Barry Rosales also known as "Jaxey" left home on Friday morning with his regular fishing partner. They went to their favorite spot near Alligator Caye but Rosales became ill on the trip. Rosales stayed back to rest while his partner went out fishing but when he came back Rosales wasn't around. We spoke to Rosales' father this morning and he told us what he knows.

Belize Ban Brazilian Corned Beef, Temporarily
Yesterday we told you about the corned beef crisis in the Caribbean. Several countries in the region have banned the importation and sale of corned beef from Brazil after reports came in claiming the certain processing facilities were selling rotten meat. Apparently, as many as 21 facilities were flagged by Brazilian authorities for the irregularities in their health certifications. Those factories are being re-audited and have been suspended from exportation in the mean time.

The Siltation Situation is Choking Yabra Fishers
Remember the silt that swallowed up the sea at southern foreshore last year February? Well while that problem was addressed, it's now plaguing residents in the Yabra area. That sticky funky stuff is clogging the Yabra Canal and spreading fast. The fisherfolk who live in that area are feeling it the hardest because they can't pull up their boats. Today we met City Councillor Phillip Willoughby along with personnel from the Department of the Environment at the scene. There were assessing the situation in the canal to see what can be done. Willoughby explained how they plan on cleaning out the silt and what residents need to do to help:

Elderly Woman Says She Self Medicates Fro Pain With Crack
Today another elderly woman was charged in court for an offense related to crack-cocaine. 67 year old Ida Simpson, a resident of Gan's Rest House, was busted this morning with 0.6 grams of crack-cocaine. According to Simpson, she bought the illicit drug off a boy on the street for $3. When she appeared in court today, Simpson immediately pled guilty to possession of controlled drugs. But, she told the Magistrate that she used the crack as a substitute for Advil or Anacin. Despite her guilty plea, Magistrate Carlon Mendoza was hesitant to send a woman of her age to prison, instead deciding to impose a non-custodial charge, fining her $100 plus a $5 court fee.

The Interrogation of Inez
Last night, we brought you coverage from the latest hearings on Immigration, where officer Inez Casanova finally gave the Senate Select Committee a positive identification on who this "Mr. Middleton" is. As you saw, he's Barton Middleton, and though very little is known about him, he's quickly gaining infamy due to the testimonies of persons who have gone before the Senate Committee. They have heard startling accounts that he was handsomely paid to act as an immigration agent, so that he could push through 6 visa applications for Chinese nationals.

Erwin Robinson, A History Of Hacking
We now show you another portion of the Senate hearing and the questions the Committee had for Erwin Robinson. He was the former Immigration Data Entry Clerk who - if you follow the hard evidence - took a picture of Won Hong Kim, a man who never entered Belize, and then assisted to print a Belize passport for this South Korean Fugitive, a document he never qualified for. But Robinson says he didn't do it. Here's the Senate showing him that picture and asking him to explain himself: Hon. Aldo Salazar: "You were the one who captured Wonhong Kim's data in the system?" Erwin Robinson: "Yes sir."

Hon. Hyde Says Early Immigration Appearances Are Just Previews
And while the testimony so far has been revealing, today, the PUP Member for Lake Independence said that all those who have appeared so far are just previews, he's waiting for the stars to make their showing!:... Hon. Cordel Hyde- Area Rep, Lake I: "It's under your watch, that's why we are watching week by week the dripping revelation of seedy corruption at the immigration department. But you know all the weekly testimonies are just previews of coming attractions you know. You know, when you used to go da Palace, they have a lot of previews before the real movie? Well the real movie ah be when the ministas turn to testify, that's when the real movie.

An Independent Eye On Superbond
Today the Legacy Fund and the Belize Chamber of Commerce held a presentation to discuss Superbond 3.0. The presenter, Ervin Perez, Managing Director of the Legacy Fund, ran through the history of the Bond and the implications of the latest version that government closed the deal on one week ago. Perez broke down his presentation down for us... Ervin Perez - Managing Director, Legacy Fund Ltd.: "So a brief overview was simply that we wanted to see how we got here with the superbond 3 and to show the comparisons between the different stages in the external debt. The other thing was to really emphasize that the challenges that we faced, even if given this opportunity in terms of a better cash profile with the debt, a lower interest rate, a shaving of the principal that we have a structural issue in the country and that has been the case for over the last 23 years where government administration after administration has spent more than they have taken in revenue and so they have to borrow and then as a country we have consumed more in imports than we have exported.

Ervin Weighs In On Budget
And while the politicians will be verbally jousting over the budget, Ervin Perez, who is an economist and financial advisor, gave us his clinical assessment of the UDP's plans for the next fiscal year... Ervin Perez - Managing Director, Legacy Fund Ltd.: "Well clearly the public servants have gotten their increments. So there's going to be no impact on their wages, in fact they're going to be a small increase in their wages but when we look at government expenditure cuts in capital expenditure, about 98 mil, whenever government slows down economic activity there's always a fall out. The question we were asking is if that cut would be replaced by private sector investing.

Wyndham Will Open Mega Resort In Belize
Belize has been chosen as the location for the Wyndham Hotel Group's newest resort. The hotel giant announced today that it is planning to open up a huge new resort in Ambergris Caye. The 242 room resort is scheduled to be completed in December of next year and will boast 5 towers, 11 waterfalls, Venetian canals and bridges, and the largest hotel pool in the country.

Belize Protectors On A Mission
The Belize Protectors, a team of athletes from different branches of Belize's national security forces, is heading to California tonight. The team is travelling to once again participate in the Baker to Vegas Competition: a 120 mile, 20 leg relay races from Baker, California to Las Vegas, Nevada. Last year the team participated in the mixed category, where they came in 1st. This year, after being unsuccessful in finding enough females to participate, an all male delegation is being sent to defend the title. We spoke to some of the athletes and one of their coaches about the competition and the preparation it took to get them ready to race...

A Soldier of Excellence
And while the Belize Protectors are defending their title, other members of BDF are distinguishing themselves in Guyana. Francisco Choc was recognized as one of the top graduates in the Guyana Defense Force's 49th Standard Officer Course. Choc received awards for Best Student, Military Knowledge and Best Fitness. Choc graduated alongside fellow BDF soldier, Caleb Rodriguez and 10 other members of the Guyana and Antigua and Barbuda Defense Forces.

Rt. Hon. Musa and Hon. Elrington Spar
Going back now to today's budget debate, after Cordel Hyde, it was unto Wilfred Elrington, and then to Said Musa. Musa used his presentation mostly to absolve himself and his administrations of any superbond wrongdoing, but when Musa got around to bashing the current state of Belize's Foreign affairs minister, well ...let's just say Foreign Minister Elrington didn't take that attack well at all. Here is how their exchange went. Rt. Hon. Said Musa: "On Tuesday March 17th on the visit of the OAS Secretary General Luis Almagro, the minister pontificated again, that in his mind we do not have any agreed borders with our neighbor Guatemala. HE completely ignores the fact that in 1859 a treaty was signed in which our borders with Guatemala were defined. He completely ignores the historic fact that in the 1930s surveys were done for the western borderline and at which concrete monuments were put down at various points, at Gracias Adios and Garbutt's Falls."

LOO Briceno Asks Where’s The Clinic For San Pedro
And while that would be categorized under just straight sparring, our next clips are from the Opposition Leader's official response to the Prime Minister's budget. He pointed out that the long promised upgrade San Pedro Clinic got no mention in the budget:... Hon. John Briceno, Leader of the Opposition: "In the last two budgets we were told about funding for the upgrade of the San Pedro Health Center to make it a full service 24-hour facility. This project first appeared in the 2015 budget; in fact it was on page 16. It was introduced a second time in the 2016 budget on page 18. This year it is gone, conspicuously absent from the 2017 budget. Is this because the task has been accomplished?"

A Festival Flurry
And that's all we have for you tonight. We leave you on an up-note with highlites of the adorable preschoolers festival of the arts. These are Tuesday night's performances. Enjoy. And join Courtney Weatherburne here tomorrow.

Wilfred's Words Against Cordel
The UDP Representative for Pickstock followed the PUP's Cordel Hyde and he basically said, how dare you talk about immigration or lands corruption: Hon. Wilfred Elrington: "I find it incredible that in fact the member would touch the issue of corruption, particularly as it relates to visas and to land. The book on corruption in relation to visas and passports was written by the PUP. All of them that are now wealthy got their wealth though the sale of passports and visas. And to call for a senate inquiry and listen to the senate inquiry and to have the "oohs" and "awes", these people are pass masters. They have made millions of dollars off it and none of them has been brought to book."

Hon. Hyde Singles Out UDP's Special Contractors
And PUP Deputy Leader Cordel Hyde used his hour long address to key in on some of the UDP Government's preferred contractors: Hon. Cordel Hyde- PUP Area Rep, Lake I: "IE, which is owned by the Arguelles brothers, has gotten contract after contract after contract from BIL. They built Battlefield park, they built Memorial park, they built BTL park, they built Falcon field in San Ignacio, they built the football field in San Pedro, they are building the Multipurpose center in Toledo and they got the mother of all contracts the Belize City Center for almost $35 or more million dollars; $42 million; without bidding…you hear?

Johnny Talking Like Tosh?
And - having the luxury of being in opposition - Briceno also took the marijuana issue head on. The Barrow administration seems to have more or less chickened out on it, but multiple PUP speakers went all Peter Tosh on the issue and said "legalize it": Hon. John Briceno, Leader of the Opposition: "It is time for us to stop locking up our young people for a stick of weed. The time has come for us decriminalize marijuana smoking and prepare the necessary research to move to legalizing marijuana for medicinal purposes and in small quantities."

Hon. Briceno Says National Bank Tanking
And Briceno also used his response to key in on the National Bank which he says is racking up losses.

Channel 5

“Bogus” 2017 Budget Shredded by Opposition Leader
The House of Representatives met in Belmopan today with passions running high for the second reading of the General Revenue and Appropriation Bill, otherwise known as the Budget, which is [...]

Cordel Says Government Wants to Maintain Pretense
If the Leader of the Opposition’s statements were broad and presented the macro picture of the so dubbed Barrow’s bogus budget, then his deputy, Lake Independence’s Cordel Hyde, was more [...]

Amid Warning on S.S.B., Cordel Zings John Saldivar
After castigating the Government for not providing less vague assurances about how it will address the repayment of the Superbond and Belize’s other debts, Hyde turned his attention to the [...]

Were “Pro-Poor” Programs Actually Cut?
Hyde also went after what he called cuts to significant portions of the “pro-poor” programs initiated by the Barrow administration, including the food pantry, school feeding program and Apprenticeship Training. [...]

Said Defends Superbond Spending; Says Massive Development Took Place
Former Prime Minister Said Musa stood to make his contribution to the debate this afternoon. As he said at the outset, he wanted to defend his Government’s decision to make [...]

Former and Current Foreign Ministers Clash over Borders Comment
“It is just like you are on a piece of land all your life, but you are a squatter. You can’t do anything with that land until you get it [...]

Will Titan Collect on Judgment for Damages over Raid?
Bahamians Ron Knowles and Kelvin Leach were back in court today where a second round of litigation concluded this afternoon in an appeal filed by the Government of Belize.  The [...]

G.O.B. Was Acting for U.S. But Who is Responsible?
Knowles and Leach were initially claiming damages in excess of twenty million dollars.  That figure was considerably reduced and after taking into account a number of reasons, the final sum [...]

Blackman Eddy Remains are of a Woman Who Died Horribly
The recent murder of Keonia Ara was particularly gruesome, but body parts found in the river behind Blackman Eddy this week, tell the tale of a most gory murder.  On [...]

Court Releases Convicted Robber Who Appealed Due to Missing File
Is Leonel Daly a free man because of a missing file? Daly’s case, an appeal to a robbery conviction, could not be heard today when he went before the Judges [...]

Court Rules that Killer Osmar Sabido was Provoked by His Victim
A conviction of murder in the case of Osmar Sabido, who was sentenced to life in prison in 2016 for brutally stabbing his girlfriend, has been reduced to manslaughter.  This [...]

Who Deliberately Set Houses on Fire in Santa Elena?
Members of the Vasquez family occupying two houses in Santa Elena, Cayo are picking up the pieces today after their property and belongings were gutted by arson on Wednesday.  The [...]

How Much are Consultants Being Paid for Superbond?
As expected, the matter of the Superbond came up during the first day of the Budget Debate. While repeating his claim that the revised package remains unsustainable without a clear [...]

New Crime Bills Introduced
In advance of a case at the Caribbean Court of Justice next week involving two accused murderers appealing their convictions and sentences, the Government today introduced four new bills amending [...]

Toledo U.D.P.’s Call Out Area Reps Outside House
Parliamentarians at the National Assembly must occasionally share the grand stage with their constituents – particularly those protesting against them. While 2005 certainly comes to mind, the handful of protestors [...]

Finally, Legalized Marijuana?
Could marijuana soon be legalized, or at least decriminalized? There is support in principle and the matter has been before Cabinet since a special committee released its findings in February [...]

Economist Says Numbers of Budget Do Not Tell Whole Story
The 2017 budget is being debated in the House of Representatives where parliamentarians are both criticizing and defending the fiscal plan.  But what are the economists thinking?  While there have [...]

Have You Seen Daniel Bennett, Missing 12 Days?
A mother in San Ignacio fears the worst since her son, who is now eighteen, has gone missing. According to Salustiana Jimenez, she last saw her son sleeping in his [...]

Get a New Body with High Intensity Interval Training
Routine can get a bit dull even with workouts. The latest trend in exercise is to use HIIT. Not H-I-T, but H-I-I-T which means High Intensity Interval Training. Tonight on [...]

CTV3

Sabido's Conviction Reduce To Manslaughter
First it was Daniel Ku and now 30 year old Osmar Sabido who was convicted of the murder of his common-law wife, 21 year old Christie Carrasco got his conviction reduced to manslaughter. The news that the Belize Court of Appeal upheld the appeal filed by Sabido’s Lawyer Leeroy Banner today, shocked the family and friends of Carrasco who was brutally murdered on February 28th 2011 at the couple’s home in San Lorenzo Housing Site in Orange Walk.

National Budget Debated At The House
Today it was day one of the Opposition members’ turn to surgically break down the Barrow Administration’s 2017-2018 budget estimates presented to the country by Prime Minister Dean Barrow last week Monday March 13. The Government is proposing to spend $1.18 billion in the next fiscal year, propped up by $88.1 million dollars which will be obtained directly from new tax measures. Opposition Leader Hon. John Briceno opened the debate repeating his charge that the financial numbers and economic projections are simply unreal.

Did Government Cook Up Figures?
Hon. Briceno also chastised the Government for presenting a budget with financial data that has not been verified by the Auditor General. But the truth is that none of the budgets since 2012 have been audited. Briceno committed that the next PUP Government will ensure proper auditing for each Ministry and that anyone caught in wrongdoing will be prosecuted.

LOVE FM

Anglican Archbishop Speaks on LGBT and Disintegration of Societies
There has been an ongoing debate about the LGBT agenda in Belize which has been met with complete rejection by some religious leaders. On Tuesday, Most Reverend Dr. John Holder spoke with the media on the issue which he says is one that has presented itself in the entire province he oversees. Reverend Dr. Holder […]

Protestors Want Espat and Requena to Account for Monies
A small group of protestors gathered at the foot of the National Assembly in Belmopan, Cayo District to express their discontent with the reported absence of their Area Representatives for Toledo West and Toledo East, Oscar Requena and Mike Espat, respectively. Senator Macario Coy was among the protestors who told Love News that the two […]

PUP Lashes Out at Sedi for Recent Remarks
The People’s United Party says it is appalled and outraged at comments made by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wilfred Elrington. In a recent interview with the media, Minister Elrington said quote, “Our maritime borders have never even been agreed upon. That has to be agreed upon. We don’t have any maritime borders agreed upon in […]

BDF Soldier Makes Country Proud in Guyana
News coming out of Guyana is that Belizean born twenty three year old Francisco Choc topped the Guyana Defense Force (GDF)’s Standard Officers Course Number 49. Choc is one of two Belizeans who graduated from the course yesterday. He received the awards for Best Student, Military Knowledge and Best Fitness. Earlier in the month the […]

The Guardian

Bag of body parts found in Iguana Creek
Police authorities are canvassing the villages of Selena, Los Tambos and other nearby villages because they believe dismembered body parts that were found on Tuesday and Wednesday of this week belong to a female migrant who was in that area. On Tuesday March 21 sometime around 1p.m. two young men were on the Macal river hunting Iguanas when they came up on a crucus bag floating in the water. When they came closer to the bag they found the remains of a human body. They found hands and feet inside the bag and immediately notified their mother and authorities. Of note is that the young men were the sons of Sherlene Mai who is the mother of 18 year old Kerona Ara who had been found at a garbage dump 4 miles of Belmopan, burnt. Ara’s mother, Shirlene Mai, said the find was unexpected and she called the police.

Brother chops sister to death
Police are have charged Elijah Burke, who is accused chopping his sister, 29 year-old Juliane Burke, to death. There is no clear reason why he attacked his family member, but his brother-in-law is suggesting a rather strange motive. Also, the attack happened in front of Juliane Burke’s 6-year-old son, Elijah’s nephew. The incident happened on Sunday evening, March 19, at around 6 o’clock at Juliane Burke’s home in Kings Park, Belize City. Reports to the press are that she came to pick up her 6-year-old son, to take him for a walk, but Elijah Burke was allegedly hiding in the back yard. He reportedly chopped her several times, and they ran into the street, with Elijah chasing behind her. She reportedly fell into a drain, and that’s when he continued to chop her ruthlessly, in plain view of her son, his nephew.

Hon. Tracy Panton Hands Over Houses to Albert’s Hurricane Victims
Hon. Tracy Taegar-Panton continues to work and lobby tirelessly for the people of the Alberts Constituency. On Monday, March 20, she was accompanied by the Minister of National Emergency Management, Hon. Edmond Castro, to the Conch Shell Bay area to hand over houses to victims of Hurricane Earl. While she had the eyes and ears of the Minister responsible to address disasters, Panton invited him on a visit to Miss Arileee Scott and her family on Prince Street who recently lost their home and belongings in a fire. They assured Miss Scott and her family that materials will be provided to them to assist with the reconstruction of their home.

Amateur Hour at the National Assembly
Belizeans at home and abroad can tune in to their favourite radio stations online or watch live on Wave Radio and TV’s Facebook page at 10 a.m. on Thursday as the Leader of the Opposition brutally butchers a perfectly written speech prepared for his response to Prime Minister Barrow’s 2017-2018 General Revenue Appropriation Bill. Johnny Briceno is less eloquent than the great Israelite hero, Moses. He has the oration skills of Looney Tunes’ Porky Pig and is less charismatic than Liberia’s Charles Taylor. The only thing worse than listening to a parliamentarian who is terrible at debating is listening to one who is both terrible and drop dead boring. If you are into that sort of thing, Johnny B goes live at 10 a.m. sharp!

Grant to provide equipment to MET service
On Tuesday, March 21, 2017, a grant agreement was signed between the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility(CCRIF) SPC and the Government of Belize. Invited guests included Catherine Cumberbatch and Derek Rudon from the Belize Meteorological Service, Isaac Anthony, CEO, CCRIF SPC; Yvette Alvarez, Senior Advisor, Ministry of Finance; Alma Gomez, Supervisor of Insurance, as well as other CCRIF Board and Team members. CCRI is an not for profit insurance group which focuses on providing coverage to countries in the aftermath of natural disasters. In welcoming the CCRIF, Alvarez informed the attendants that there are plans to renew and continue dialogue with the CCRIF. Already the organization has assisted with the purchase of new products for the MET Office under the Tropical Cyclone and Rainfall policies, which are policies that the Government of Belize have purchased in its USD $450- $600 thousand dollar coverage.

CITCO and Stakeholders Reach Agreement on Cinderella Plaza Layout
The Belize City Council, Cinderella Plaza Taxi Association, residents and other business houses in the Cinderella Plaza area have reached an agreement on the proposed layout for the rehabilitated space. Copies of the Cinderella Plaza Proposed Dimension Layout were handed out at a public consultation on Tuesday night, March 21. During the consultation exercise, Councilor Philip Willoughby provided an update on the Flood Mitigation Project, which has been integral to the development of the Cinderella Plaza community. The Belize City Council worked in close partnership with the Flood Mitigation Project Committee to concrete streets in the area simultaneously with their comprehensive drainage project. Willoughby explained that the Committee will officially hand over the area to the Belize City Council within a few weeks and it will once again be the Council’s responsibility for upkeep and further development of the infrastructure.

Floyd Neal Elected President of NTUCB
The President of the National Trade Union Congress of Belize, an organization which represents thousands of workers, was elected with 45 votes in an Extraordinary General Meeting on Saturday, March 18. Marvin Mora was re-elected at the Annual General Meeting in December 2016 but he was stripped of the title since he had serve more time than an individual is allowed to be on the executive body. Veteran labour rights advocate and unionist Jaqueline Willoughby had been serving as Interim President since the post was made vacant in December. She submitted her name to vy for the post of President at the Extraordinary General Meeting on Saturday. She was challenged by Floyd Neal, who was brought into the union leadership by Audrey Matura-Shepherd when she assumed the presidency of the Christian Workers Union in December of 2013. Shepherd appointed Neal as Secretary General of the CWU and he has worked his way up the ladder since then.

Forest 4 Life launched Nationally
Over a thousand students filled the auditorium at the Sacred Heart High School and Junior College in San Ignacio Town on Tuesday in a National launch by the Forestry Department, to bring greater appreciation of our forests. The message filled displays by the students was one to behold as we commemorate this year’s International Forest Day. Among the messages sent were that forests are an integral part of our sustenance. Forests also protect our watersheds and are important to a climate change solution.

BDF General Jones Inducted in US Army College’s International Hall of Fame
Nearly 8,000 international officers who have graduated from the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College since 1894 and now 270 of those distinguished men and women from across the globe have been inducted into its International Hall of Fame. Belize’s Brigadier General David Jones, Commandant of the Belize Defense Force is among the elites of the elites after he was inducted on March 16 at the Lewis and Clark Center in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Jones and three other military leaders were honoured by Major General John S. Kem, Provost of the Army University and Deputy Commandant of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, who officiated the ceremony. The other honorees were Major General Authur David Gawn of New Zealand, Lieutenant General Tadeusz Buk of Poland and General Alberto Jose Mejia Ferrero of Columbia. According to reports, Jones was accompanied by his two sons, David and Deron, as he spoke about his time studying at CGSC and how the course prepared him to lead the Belize Defense Force.

Insurance for natural disasters
The Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility (CCRIF) is one the Caribbean and Central American regions’ primary mechanisms of response in the event of a natural disaster. Having just celebrated its 10th anniversary in February, it is the first of its kind in the world. The not-for-profit insurance facility which is headquartered in the Cayman Islands exists to aid in natural disaster mitigation and recovery to vulnerable countries, 16 Caribbean member countries and 1 Central American country. The facility works primarily with the governments of these countries and is looking to implement an agreement this year to work closely with individual farmers, fishermen, and other at risk groups. In essence, a country purchases coverage from CCIF based on what they can afford. A threshold is determined by the two parties and in the event of a disaster, where that threshold is met, the country is given funds to aid in disaster recovery. For example, the Government of Belize has purchased tropical cyclone and rainfall policies. Although the damages sustained by 2016’s hurricane Earl were quite disastrous, the tropical cyclone threshold was not met. The country did however receive a sum of USD $261,073 on its rainfall policy after hurricane Earl.

Johnny needs to open his eyes
Ever since the Prime Minister presented his 2017/2018 Budget the PUP leadership have been making the media rounds. It seems as if though it was all comers that were making these rounds .Everyone from Johnny to Rodwell are making radio and television appearances. Yes you read it right, even Rodwell. Now knowing the type of interventions Rodwell has made in the House of Representatives, in the past, the things that he has said during these media appearances were very much expected to be very low on content and logic. Not that his Leader Johnny or any of the others, made any Einstein-like appearances. It has been like the Bozo Show with these clowns. Perhaps the reason they have been unable to demolish the budget, is because they were expecting a budget loaded with new taxes, budget cuts and even retrenchment.

OAS Secretary General urges for referendum on Guatemala
OAS Secretary General Luis Almagro Lemes was in Belize for his second visit since taking up the office. He has met with a number of high level Belizean officials, including Prime Minister Dean Barrow. It’s all a part of the push to urge both Belize and Guatemala to push forward with the referendum on whether or not the territorial claim should be taken to the International Court of Justice. It has been 11 years of confidence building measures between Belize and Guatemala to peacefully resolve the territorial claim. The group of Friendly nations, mostly made of wealthy European nations, have been bearing the financial burden to fund confidence building and the OAS Adjacency Zone office at the Benque/Melchor border. This referendum is too long delayed, and the friendly nations are getting impatient about putting money into a venture that appears to be going nowhere fast.

Hon Saldivar Keynote Speaker at Opening of Quality Poultry Complex in Belmopan
Belmopan Area Representative Hon. John Saldivar was Keynote Speaker at a ceremony this morning marking the official opening of a brand new complex for Quality Poultry Products in the Capital City, which serves as a wholesale distribution and retail outlet, as well as a convenience store and restaurant. Also speaking at the ceremony was Belmopan Deputy Mayor Ralston Frazer and Quality Poultry Products General Manager Raymond Barkman who gave the Area Representative and Deputy Mayor a full tour of the facility after they cut the symbolic ribbon for the official opening.

Santa Elena Town brightens up with new sign
The Twin Town of San Ignacio-Santa Elena is laying down the welcoming mat, as it prepares for Belize’s largest municipal fair, scheduled for April 15th, 16th and 17th. During that time the Town Council from the West will be launching its twin city tour as highlighted by Santa Elena now being spelt fully in fiber glass at the roundabout near the entrance to Santa Elena Town. Getting involved in typical fashion, Mayor Earl Trapp Junior displayed the full sign of Santa Elena on Sunday. Mayor Earl Trapp asserts that the Representative for the Cayo Central Division the Hon. Rene Montero had come up with the idea of a roundabout and had successfully sought finance for the project. The ‘Santa Elena’ sign at the entrance of a buzzing Town will serve many purposes such as improving the aesthetics, be a directional sign and give travelers a feeling of satisfaction. The sign itself has arts within it, mostly depicting the National Symbols of Belize.

GOB appeals 8.8 million dollar Titan judgment against it
The Barrow Administration is seeking to overturn the judgment which the Supreme Court granted against them which would cost taxpayers 8.8 million dollars. The Government believes that Bahamian business partners Rohn Knowles and Kelvin Leach are not entitled to any of the money from that award, because it did not wreck their company, Titan International Securities. From the Government’s perspective, their downfall was due to them being named publicly for allegedly being involved in a 1-billion-dollar tax evasion scheme, money which should rightly belong to the US Government. The award against the Government was handed down by Justice Courtney Abel back in January of 2016. From the judge’s perspective, the Financial Intelligence Unit and the police department’s Anti-Drug Unit was excessive in their raid in September of 2014. That’s when the Government of Belize was acceding to the request for mutual legal assistance against both men and their company. In an 8-hour search and seizure, the police department cleaned out their office of all documents, computer equipment, basically emptying it completely.

Belizeans shot in Champon
In less than two weeks, two Belizean have been killed while socializing near Melchor. On Friday 17th March, 2017 at 9:00 p.m., police visited the popular Larios Bar located at the Belize Adjacency Zone area (Champon) at the Belize Western Border where they saw the lifeless body of 40-year-old Carlos Manzanero, a Belizean tour operator of San Jose Succotz Village, Cayo. He was seated in a chair with multiple gunshot wounds to his stomach area, right hand and right knee. Manzanero was transported to the San Ignacio Community Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival at 9:20 p.m. The body of Manzanero now lies at the Western Regional Hospital Morgue awaiting a Postmortem Examination. Investigation revealed that on that Friday at about 8:50 p.m. while Manzanero was with his wife and brother socializing at Larios Bar, a Hispanic descent male person exited a car with a handgun and started to fire at him. The gunman thereafter re-entered his vehicle and drove off over to Melchor.

Brandon Taylor acquitted
After two weeks on trial, Brandon Taylor, 30, was acquitted of murder. Taylor was accused of shooting and killing Kaylon Matura on May 16, 2012 on Central American Boulevard. Matura was shot four times, once to the back of the head, once to the chest, and twice in his back. Taylor was brought before Justice Hon. Adolph Lucas in the Supreme Court where Justice Lucas presented his oral and written ruling, resulting in Taylor’s acquittal. The ruling followed after the prosecution failed to support all 5 elements of murder. The prosecution, headed by Porsha Staine and assisted by Sherigne Rodriguez, had proven only 3 of those elements. According to the prosecution, Matura was murdered on May 16, 2012 by Taylor and the act was witnessed by Andrew Willoughby, Taylor’s brother-in-law and the crown’s only eyewitness.

Court of appeal sets man free due to errors in his trial!
46 year old, Santiago Cholom, is free after being convicted of carnal knowledge of a female child in June of 2016. His attorney, Oswald Twist, was successful in his arguing several grounds. He convinced the judges of the Court of Appeal, headed by President Manuel Sosa, Hon. Justice Blackman and Samuel L. Awich to set him free of the charges. The three judges of the court of appeal heard from the DPP’s representation and from Cholom’s attorney. Late on Thursday March 16, they sent him home free of the charge. That was as a result of the four to five grounds of appeal Twist argued for his client, of which the DPP’s crown, represented by Sheneiza Smith and Javier Chan, both conceded to the errors occurring in the trial. There were some very grave inconsistencies with the DPP’s case. For instance, the indictment said the incident occurred between September and October and in the trial the child said December.

Granny busted with a pipe- she does not smoke crack
On Wednesday March 22, 66 year old Majorie Pitts, was found with a pipe which is primarily used for the consumption of crack cocaine. Pitts was convicted of possession of a pipe. The charge was read before Magistrate Carlos Mendoza. The woman, who needed a piece of PVC pipe to walk, appeared before the magistrate where she pleaded guilty to the charge. Pitts was unrepresented before the magistrate where she made her case: “I don’t smoke crack, I was fixing it for someone.” Pitts, who is not a first time offender, was imposed a fine of $150 plus a court fee of $5 to be paid by April 28, 2017 in default she will serve a two months imprisonment. Apart from her $155 debt to the court, Pitts walked away a free women.

Fisherman fined $10,000 for drug trafficking
Belize City fisherman, 40 year old Rueben Heredia, is in debt to the court for $10,000 after pleading guilty to a drug trafficking charge. Heredia was accused of trafficking 7.1 grams of cocaine which he claims he spent $250.00 for. Heredia, better known as “Bird”, of #82 B Victoria Street was accused of drug trafficking on Monday January 11, 2016. He was represented by attorney Bryan Neal before Senior Magistrate Sharon Fraser for his trial. Instead of dragging out the trial and serving time in prison as well as paying the mandatory fine, Heredia thought it best to plead guilty and was spared jail time. His attorney pleaded on his behalf as his client was a first time offender. Senior Magistrate Fraser accepted the plea and ordered him to pay a $10,000 fine as well as a court fine in full by July 31, 2017.

Two men charged for the murder of Kerona Ara
Belmopan Police have charged both Shalon Santos and Jaime Patnett for the gruesome murder of Kerona Ara, whose body was found burning at a dump site off mile four on the Hummingbird Highway on March 11, 2017. Both men were formally arraigned at the Belmopan Magistrate’s Court last Friday morning and their case has been adjourned until May 15, 2017. The teenager had temporarily left her mom’s house in Blackman Eddy on that Saturday morning for employment at her niece’s house in Santa Elena. Her mom, Sherelen Mai had not been worried, because she believed that Ara’s cellular had lost power.

Stephen Mejia sentenced to one year in jail
In September, 20 year-old Stephen Mejia was found with a loaded 9 mm firearm along with 9 live rounds of ammunition. At the time he was charged with keeping an unlicensed firearm and ammunition and on Wednesday, March 15 he was brought before Magistrate Carlon Mendoza where he was sentenced to one year in prison. Mejia, an unemployed resident of #18 Antelope Street extension, was caught on Thursday September 1, 2016 trying to dispose of the firearm. In his trial, he denied such allegations. Prosecutor Sgt. Claude Pitts called two police witnesses to testify against him. The two officers, DC Erwin Reid and DC Earl Hamilton, both testified that at 8:40 a.m., the team of officers both members of the Strike Team, North side, Belize City were on mobile patrol on Dunn Street, Belize City, when their attention was drawn to two male persons riding on separate bicycles.

Oscar Sabido appeals for murder conviction to be reduced
At about 4:50 on Friday March 17, three judges of the Court of Appeal concluded hearing the case of convicted prisoner, Oscar Sabido, of Orange Walk. Sabido was convicted in late April 2016 of stabbing and killing his 22 year old girlfiriend, Christie Carrasco. Sabido was sentenced to life and is appealing his sentence. His hope is that his conviction be reduced from murder to manslaughter on the grounds of an error in law by the trial judge who failed to consider provocation in his sum up of his case. Upon leaving the Court of Appeal, Sabido appeared much happier than he did 11 months ago, when on April 26, 2016, Judge Herbert Lord, in a trial by judge found him guilty of Carrasco’s murder. He was sentenced to life and after 11 months of incarceration, he presented his case to the court of appeal.

Shopkeeper accused of beating 9 year old boy
On Monday March 20, business man, 31 year old Zhuo Feng Luo, appeared in Magistrate’s court before Senior Magistrate Sharon Frazer where he was charged with harming a minor. Luo, who was unrepresented, was read a single charge of harm. According to the mother of the minor, 34 year old Darlene Morris, on Thurday March 16, 2017 at mile 13 on the Phillip Goldson Highway at the property and business of Luo, her son was beat up by said owner. Morris claims that her son became aware that his ball was in Luo’s yard. He asked Luo permission to retrieve the ball but was told that Luo was busy. The minor proceeded to ask Luo’s wife and was supposedly given permission.

Shoplifter caught stealing cheese in Public’s Supermarket
Carlos Vasquez, 32 year old resident of King’s park, was brought before Senior Magistrate Sharon Fraser on Monday March 20 where he was arraigned for theft of a ball of Dutch cheese. Vasquez claims that he wanted to feed his two children. The incident occurred on Saturday, March 18th, 2017 when the manager of Public’s Supermarket called the police after his security guard made him aware of the possible theft. Vasquez, who was unrepresented, pleaded guilty to the charge of theft of a $49.00 ball of cheese. Senior Magistrate Fraser, in court, asked Vasquez why he stole the cheese and his response was simply that he wanted to feed his children. After Magistrate Fraser asked Vasquez why not just ask for help, he made it known that he had asked the manager of the supermarket for help but was denied any and that is when he decided to steal the cheese.

Three men acquitted of murder are back in court
In 2015, Judge Troadio Gonzalez ruled in the case of the murder of BDF soldier James Noralez. The murder, which occurred on November 23, 2012, was committed execution style. Noralez was shot numerous times to the body and was left for dead at the intersection of George Price Highway and Faber’s Road Extension, Belize City. In 2015, the three men appeared before the judge who ruled that the prosecution’s evidence was merely circumstantial and insufficient and had to rule out the case. The men walked away from the court free men. There may be a turn of events in the fate of the three men as the crown’s DPP representative, Sheneiza Smith, has appealed for the men to return to court. Smith highlighted evidence that were adduced in the 2015 trial. The evidence, she maintains, directly points the murder to the three men.

Two men injured one another in public fight
Two Belize City men who were engaged in a fight where both were badly injured decided to put their differences aside after being detained at the Queen Street Police Station in Belize City. They were later brought to court on those charges. The two men, 23 year-old Robert Orellano of #9060 Locario Street, Belize City and Amador Patt, particulars unknown, appeared before Magistrate Norman Rodriguez in court #4 to be read a single charge each of wounding. It was a case of a cross complaint in which Orellano, after being injured in a fight, pressed charges against the man he is accused of injuring. Both men were before the court to answer to the charges of wounding. The first defendant, Orellano, pleaded guilty to wounding Patt on Wednesday, March 15, 2017. Upon listening to the case, Magistrate Rodriguez realized that the two men were charged for wounding each other.

Wandering child costs hardworking father $200 in court
On Wednesday, March 22, Simon August was brought to Magistrate’s on the charge of allowing his child to suffer in a public place. In court, August, a fisherman, recalls that his son, one of his three children, was to arrive home from school at 4:00 p.m. but didn’t. His son, who usually visits his mother, was very late and did not return home until after 9:00 p.m. August informed the court that he recalled that he set out to look for his son on Mahogany Street. After his efforts proved to be futile, he searched BBQ’s shop house which also proved futile. After this, he says he visited a police station where he asked the officers if they had seen his son but they had not. He returned to the owner’s home and saw his bicycle, which his son was using, he then headed home.

Elijah Burke, 26, is arraigned for the murder of his sister, Julian Burke
Elijah Burke was brought before Magistrate Carlon Mendoza on Wednesday, March 22, 2017. Burke was charged with the chopping death of his sister Julian Burke which occurred at their residence at the corner of First and Peter Streets in the King’s Park area of Belize City. The incident occurred on March 19, 2017. Jullian, the mother of a six year old boy, had gone with her son to visit her sister. Upon her return, it is alleged that her brother, Elijah, awaited her behind a coconut tree. Elijah attacked his sibling with a machete and the sight soon turned gruesome. Burke’s common-law-husband, JD Funes, described one of her hands was almost severed and hanging after he met her in the hospital. Julian soon succumbed to her injuries. Her brother was apprehended by police on Monday, March 20, 2017. The motive for the murder is still unknown.

Edward P. Yorke High Schools girls and San Pedro High School boys are national high schools softball champions
The National Secondary Schools Sports Association held its National Secondary Schools Softball championship on Friday 17th March and Saturday 18th March, 2017, at Rogers Stadium in Belize. On Saturday 18th March, in the female championship game, Edward P. Yorke High School the Central Region representative edged out Belmopan Comprehensive High School the Western Region representative by the score of 8-6 to capture its very first national title. The winning pitcher was Jasany Westby while the loss was charged to Renisha Richards. In the consolation game, tournament favourite Independence High School representing the Southern Region defeated Belize Rural High School representing the Northern Region by the score of 12-4 to take the bronze medals. The winning pitcher was Shelby Linares and the losing pitcher was Keena Pott. On Friday 17th March, in the first game played, Belmopan Comprehensive School edged out Belize Rural High School by the score of 10-9. The winning pitcher was Renisha Richards and the losing pitcher was Reena Pott.

Athletics Association to hold Junior and Senior Time Trial
The Belize Athletics Association invites all athletes and track enthusiasts once again to be a part of a track and field extravaganza. This event will be hosted at the Marion Jones Sports Complex on Saturday 25th March, 2017. All athletes 15 years and older can participate in the events. Registration forms can be obtained from and returned to the BAA via email ( belizeathleticsassociation@gmail.com) or from our Facebook page (Belize Athletics Association). Registration can also be done on the day of the event.

Cayo Western Ballaz humble Smart Belize Hurricanes
The National Elite Basketball League competition continued on Saturday 18th march, 2017, with two more games on the schedule. At the Sacred Heart College Auditorium in San Ignacio Town, the defending champions continue on its downward spiral when it loss to the host team the Cayo Western Ballaz by the score of 82-78. The top scorers for the Cayo Western Ballaz were Richard Troyer with 21 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals; Darwin Leslie with 17 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists and a steal and Brandon Flowers who scored 9 points to go along with 7 rebounds and an assist towards the win. Meanwhile, the top scorers for the defending champions Smart Belize Hurricanes were Akeem Watters with 15 points, 12 rebounds, 1 assist and 2 steals; Andrew Ortiz who contributed 12 points to go along with his 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steals; Glency Lopez who scored 11 points, grabbed 4 rebounds, dished out 5 assists and a steal and Brian White who also scored 11 points, to go along with his 12 rebounds and an assist in a losing effort.

Verdes FC and Freedom Fighters play to a draw in Premier League action
The Premier League of Belize Closing Season Competition continued over the last weekend with four games on the schedule. On Sunday 19th March, at the Norman Broaster Stadium in San Ignacio Town, the visiting Freedom Fighters and the host team Verdes FC played to a 1-1 draw. The host team Verdes FC made it onto the scoreboard first when Carlos Vasquez scored the 1st goal of the game in the 44th minute of play to give his team a short-lived lead. However, the Freedom Fighters was able to penetrate the Verdes FC defence when Myron Cadle scored the equalising goal in the 49th minute of play to tie the score at 1-1. At the end of the long whistle it was a 1-1 draw.

Belize City Primary Schools Volleyball Competition opens
The 2016-2017 Belize City Primary Schools Volleyball competition opened on Monday 20th March, 2017, at the Stars Gymnasium on Princess Margaret Drive in Belize City. The schools that are participating in this year’s competition in the girls’ category includes Belize Elementary School, St. Joseph Primary School, All Saints Primary School, Queen Street Baptist School, Hummingbird Elementary School, St. Ignatius School, Wesley Upper School and Holy Redeemer School. The schools in the boys category includes Belize Elementary School, St. Joseph Primary School, All Saints School, Queen Street Baptist School, Hummingbird Elementary School, St. John Vianney School, Wesley Upper School and Holy Redeemer School.

Softball Federation names National Women’s Team Pool
The Belize Softball Federation has named the female softballers that will form the National Women’s Team Pool from where the final 17 players will be selected to represent Belze at IX Pan American Women’s Softball Championship scheduled for Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic from August 3-14, 2017. The players selected to the pool are: The Head Coach is Mr. Nelberth Flowers and the Assistant Coaches are Floyd Flowers and Keith Madrill. The federation will be meeting with the pool of players on Saturday 18th March at 10:30 am at Rogers Stadium. All players must bring a copy of their Passport Bio date page to the meeting.

Words of Life with Pastor Barry Fraser
The attention of all our youth is drawn to this announcement! I was travelling home on the bus one Saturday afternoon, when six young men in their early twenties got on at the terminal. Their conversation was loud, and they seemed to compete with each other to see who could use the “f” word the most. Maybe talking like this makes you “de man!” They had no respect for the older passengers, and there were parents with young children on board. However, the most disturbing thing was the topic of conversation. They were talking about who could drink the most! One said he could drink twice as much whiskey as any of them, and another said he could drink a liter of rum all by himself. I thought, “Is life so boring and meaningless that you have to blot it out with alcohol?”

States, lies, courts, armed forces & the misuse of power
We are reading people like Palin, Manafort and Drumphall wrong. I do not laugh at their blubbering buffoonery; rather I enter their mind through the doors that they so carelessly leave open. Former New Jersey Superior Court Judge Andrew P. Napolitano offered the WORLD a very good view into the mind of the unscrupulous supremacists. Napolitano claimed that in Mr. Obama’s case, he may have gone to a British intelligence agency to seek external help, so as not to leave any evidence that a wiretap took place. The former Superior Court Judge was purposefully disingenuous. He displayed a total disregard for honesty, integrity and truth. We ought not to put our confidence in flawed, corrupt systems – Injustice Systems, Bogus Systems.

The fight for OW North
Last week, channel 7 asked Hon. Finnegan to reflect on good Belizean politicians to which the Minister responded,” Dean Russell Lindo and Said Wilbert Musa”. Now I would never challenge Honorable Finnegan’s observations since he definitely possesses more sagacity and experience than I will ever have. But with due respect, the Honorable does not have much exposure to electoral politics in OW, which is the home-ground of party politics all seasons in the Year, election time or not. Here I have to tip my hat to the PUP for their tenacity and doggedness in never letting up. And it’s not just via their radio and TV outlets that we see them. They have a standing committee of educated PUP die-hards who meet frequently to strategize to advise the hierarchy of the Pary. In addition, the secretariat in town has a database on all electors and soon to be electors. Birthday cards are frequently delivered by PUP foot soldiers whether one is Red or Blue. Each senior citizen in OW Central receives a small bag of groceries each month to help with expenses. Johnny rarely refuses a solicitation for medical assistance, Red or Blue.

Desperation Squared
I make it a point to steer clear from commenting on the different practices and traditions of the several religious denominations that exist in Belize today. This is because many scholars hold firm the opinion that religious intolerance between differing faiths has sparked the most appalling conflicts in our world’s civilized history; several of these deadly conflicts continue without abate even to this day. That said, and I say this tongue in cheek, I will risk one comment here on a ritual which I thought was pretty uncommon and bizarre, especially coming from a nationally recognized organization who participated in this ceremony. Last week Wednesday January 15 the leadership of the People’s United Party went to sing “happy birthday” songs at the tombstone of the late Rt. Hon. George C. Price, and then later went on to sponsor a press conference at Independence Hall, evoking the former PUP leader’s name several times during the in-house political rally.

Breaking Belize News

Man shot in Belize City
A man was shot on the south side of Belize City last night. The victim has been identified as Ron Myvett.

Body parts found in Iguana Creek are those of a female
On Tuesday, BBN reported that police were called to a location near the Iguana Creek bridge in the Cayo District where a group of young men hunting iguanas found what appeared to be parts of a human body.

Burglar gets 7 years in prison
Alton Carr was yesterday sentenced to 7 years for burglary. According to Belmopan police, the burglary occurred between the 18th to the 21st of April 2014.

Man convicted of killing girlfriend gets sentence reduced
Last April, Osmar Sabido,30, was sentenced to life in prison for the 2011 murder of his girlfriend, 21 year old Christie Carrasco. However, today Sabido had his conviction reduced after his attorney...

Media leaves Belize Police Department hanging
Last week BBN reported that the media in the country joined together to unanimously boycott the police department. The media’s frustration was because the new media policy allowed for only police press officers to respond and to issue ...

Barry Rosales died of drowning
Barry Rosales who went missing at sea earlier this month died of drowning, according to a postmortem examination conducted by medical officers today. Rosales was found around 4:30 p.m. on March 22nd 2017 on the southern section of Alligator Caye.

PUP calls for Elrington’s removal
Last Friday, Foreign Minister, Wilfred Elrington told the nation that our maritime borders were never agreed upon and that we were all squatting on land for which we did not have the title. As a result, the Opposition People’s United Party (PUP) issued a press release calling for his removal.

Austrian Government requested removal of Belize’s Ambassador
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sedi Elrington confirmed today that the Austrian Government requested the removal of Belize’s Ambassador to Austria. Elrington, however, reported that no reason was given by Austria as to why they wanted Ambassador Joel Nagel removed.

Fatal accident on Philip Goldson Highway claims one life
Yesterday at 8:15 a.m., police visited an accident scene between miles 57and 58 on the Phillip Goldson Highway where a pickup truck and a motor cycle collided injuring the motorcycle driver. On the scene was a White 4-door 2001 Ford Ranger Pickup driven at […]

Man missing at sea found dead
Reports to our newsroom are that last night the body of Mr Barry Rosales, aka Jaxey, was found. He was reportedly found near a mangrove area outside of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. A post mortem is scheduled for today to determine the cause […]

President Trump’s campaign manager laundered money through Belize
Paul Manafort, campaign manager for US President Donald Trump is in the middle of a money laundering scandal which was allegedly facilitated through a company in Belize. This week, Ukrainian lawmaker Sergii Leshchenko claimed that he has documents proving that Manafort helped former Ukrainian President […]

Mid-afternoon fire guts two buildings in Santa Elena, Cayo
Yesterday around 1:45pm, San Ignacio Police received information of a house fire at # 25 George Price Boulevard, Santa Elena Town. Police saw a two story building measuring about 20 feet by 30 feet engulfed in flames. George Vasquez reported that yesterday while at […]

Fair weather to prevail
The 24 hour forecast is for partly cloudy skies with some isolated showers today. The wind will blow from the east to northeast at 5-15 knots and the sea state will be choppy. High temperatures are expected as follows: In the coast – 84 […]

Belmopan businesses donate new vehicle to police
The Belmopan police formation today received a new vehicle. The vehicle was donated by the Belmopan business community. Officer commanding Belmopan police, Sr. Supt. Howell Gillett thanked the people of Belmopan for the generous donation. “ I promise that it will be used solely […]

51 year old Sand Hill fisherman remains missing at sea
On Monday, March 20, around 2:05 p.m., police received information of a missing person. Police visited Alligator Caye located about 20 miles south east of Belize City and spoke with Percival Flowers, 63, fisherman of Sandhill Village. Flowers reported that on Sunday sometime between […]

“Mr. Middleton” finally identified- he has a first name!
The Senate Special Select Committee finally has a name for the infamous “Mr. Middleton” whom several witnesses have said is an integral part of the visa fraud, currently under investigation. During the testimony of Immigration Officer Inez casanova, she positively identified “Mr. Middleton” as […]

Blogs

Gone with the Wind – Parasail over the water!
The winds have been delicious, and coupled with the sunshine, spotless blue skies and crystal clear waters, there is truly no better way to enjoy it all than dangling from a smiley faced chute as a boat sails you around. Imagine our surprise when Jimmy says, “Okay, let’s go right now!” I mean, all you can say is “Okay!” This is living the moment, and all thoughts of deadlines, computer screens and really, life, slip away as we get on the boat for our spontaneous little adventure. Do we let the boss know? Nahhhh…she’ll figure it out when we come back to office MUCH later than the 15 minutes we promised! Teehee…and knowing her, she’d have joined in had she come with us too! Jimmy and his right-hand man Eli and assistant Ahmad took care of us on the quick little boat ride out to sea from their dock, and within moments, Eli has me strapped in to a life vest and harness. I had a flashback to my previous skydiving adventure, and oh my how my excitement grew! Back in the air I go, but this time from the ‘ground’ up.

Snake Cayes in Southern Belize
The Snake Cayes are four islands that are situated approximately 20 miles off the coast of southern Belize. Named West Middle, East, and South Snake Caye respectively, the islands were given their scary moniker due to the large number of boa constrictor snakes that once lived on the islands. The Snake Cayes are unusual because they are not part of the nearby Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest barrier reef in the world. The Snake Cayes are officially inside the Port Honduras Marine Reserve and have their own separate coral growing on a ledge of limestone. East Snake Caye was once known as Lighthouse Caye due to the presence of a lighthouse on the island which is still standing (along with a second one built later). Middle Snake Caye is most popular with bird watchers as there are huge nesting sites for Bridled Terns and Brown Noddies. South Snake Caye is less popular with tourists but is used by fishermen in pursuit of lobster and barracuda.

15 Photos that will inspire you to travel to Belize
Today we have beach on the brain. It’s still cold, grey and rainy here in Vancouver, so we thought we’d share some photos from our last trip to Belize. Belize still ranks high on our list of ‘countries we will revisit again in the future’. We love the laid back vibe of Caye Caulker and Placencia, the silky white sand beaches of Ambergris Caye and Laughing Bird Caye, and the diverse eco-system found in the Cayo District. For such a small country, Belize is fantastically diverse.

Best Beaches In Belize To Visit In 2017
Belize is a tropical paradise situated just south of Mexico’s popular Yucatan Peninsula. It’s just a quick flight away from the USA, and the best beaches in Belize will blow you away. You can hop on a flight from most USA major hubs in the morning and be on the beach in Belize before lunch time. Belize has been blessed with 240 miles of coastline and more than 450 islands which they call “Cayes.” Our first trip to Belize was in 2011 and it is there that the idea to quit our jobs to travel the world was born. Fast forward 2 years later we quit our jobs and boarded a one-way flight to Belize. We’ve spent over a month in Belize, it’s our favorite country in Central America. On our last trip, we rode the chicken buses in Belize all across the country (and even killed a chicken on a chicken bus on accident). Here are our personal favorite beaches in Belize and they are in order of our favorites.

Where to go in Placencia, Belize - for whatever you are in the mood for!
This is a hard question to research or google when you are on vacation.....if you are looking for a tranquil afternoon, you might head to a pool bar, but then find it is a crazy loud place. Maybe you are a vegetarian and you head to a place that specializes in stewed chicken. Here are some helpful hints past guests have reported on, to help you find your perfect vacation spot! EAT THE BEST LOCAL FOOD: This is an arguable one. However, based on guest feedback, these are not the fanciest places, but the places where people have found the best local dishes....Dawn's Grill and Wende's Creole Resaurant. HAVE THE BEST AUTHENTIC, CHEAP LUNCH: Mim's! This is not online, and is very modest looking - you'll find it on main street if you walk right to the street from CBC, on the right. They have the best authentic stewed chicken, rice and beans, for $5usd. (If you are not staying at CBC, it is located north of the village, just south of Top Value). HAVE LOCAL BBQ: John's BBQ in the area right by the fields, where you will see three wood houses, a great place to hang out!

Bird Watching in Belize is Now Trendy
A recent article published in the Telegraph described how bird watching is now a popular and trendy activity for young people. Although birding has often been deemed an activity for middle age people, a new survey in Britain discovered that an astonishing 32% of men aged 16-25 have been birding. The Telegraph article comes on the heels of a Traveller magazine article that labeled bird watching as 2017's "unlikeliest" trendy activity. Traveller magazine described how popular musicians such as the former lead singer of Blur are avid enthusiasts of bird watching, although astute observers may counter that he is not exactly in the Millenial demographic. It's not just young men who have recently taken to bird watching. Growing numbers of younger women are now organizing online, setting up group discussions such as the one named "Next Generation Birders", proof positive that birding is increasingly becoming a popular activity for both genders. The Telegraph reported on these statistics with their trademark sarcasm, quipping that young "hipsters" wearing high-waisted pants will soon be posting photographs on popular social media platforms of the birds they've recorded.

6 Amazing Belize Island Resorts For Your Summer Vacation
Summer is right around the corner, but you don't have to be a Bill Gates or Mark Zuckerberg in order to enjoy a fabulous island resort vacation in Belize. Whether you prefer to relax in a hammock and sip on a cocktail or get out there on the water and enjoy fabulous adventures like sailing, snorkeling, fishing, and scuba diving, there's a great island resort for you. Here are six amazing island resorts in Belize:

Visiting Belize in May? Do not miss the Chocolate Festival
In 2017, the Chocolate Festival will be held from May 19-21. Friday, May 19, 2017, will begin with the festival's signature event, pairing live music, Belizean chocolate, and a selection of excellent wines. Held at the Lodge at Big Falls in the village of Big Falls about 18 miles from Punta Gorda, the night will include a performance from the Garifuna Collectives.

Dear Teenage Girls….by: Kiah Pastor
Dear Teenage Girls of Belize, There are a couple tragedies currently in the media that has hit close to home therefore I’d like to speak on one. There was a situation that occurred where a 13 year old female sent nude photos to a man and he then threatened to expose them if she did not have sex with him. Well she ended up having sex with him twice. We live in a Society where men glorify women and their bodies but there is a very fine line between being human and appreciating a woman’s natural physique and then just being out right disrespectful. In Belize, most cases it’s being disrespectful. But as a child having your body go through changes, you’re left some what confused. Why should I as a teenager not show off my newly developed breasts if they’re so many older and more developed women on social media also showing off their bodies and getting glorified by not only men but other females as well. Do you see my point? Nudity has become a part of pop culture. Nudity has become art. Nudity has been accepted in every case EXCEPT when it has been shared against your will. The amount of guys I’ve seen preaching about “having self respect” and telling girls to stop sending nudes to young boys are the same guys I recall have asked me to send them a nude when I was between the ages of 12-16.

42 Interesting Facts About Belize That You Need to Know
Do you know Belize? Here are some surprises facts about the country: The official language is English. In 1893, Mexico renounced its claim to Belizean Territory. The country changed its name from British Honduras to Belize in 1973. A peaceful country, Belize is tolerant to different races and religions.

International Sources

Belizean Tops Guyana Defence Force Cadet Officers’ Course
Francisco Choc of Belize has topped the Guyana Defence Force (GDF)’s Standard Officers Course Number 49. Choc is one of two Belizeans who graduated from the course yesterday along with nine Guyanese and one officer from Antigua and Barbuda. Choc received the awards for Best Student, Military Knowledge and Best Fitness. The award for Best Shot went to Gerald Gomes; Best Drill to Travis Marcellino, and Runner up Student to the lone female cadet, Brandi Johnson.

Wyndham Grand Ambergris Caye to open December 2018
Wyndham Hotel Group will manage the 242-key Wyndham Grand Ambergris Caye, the first resort in Belize to fly the Wyndham Grand flag. The five-star oceanfront resort is scheduled to open in December 2018. The resort’s five towers, housing one-, two-, and three-bedroom hotel and residential suites, feature 11 waterfalls and rise up from pools connected by bridges and canals. Wyndham Grand Ambergris Caye will offer a spa, fitness centre, multiple restaurants, 7,000 square feet of meeting space and an onsite excursion centre. It puts guests within steps of Belize’s Barrier Reef, the world’s second largest coral reef system which runs the length of the country, and is just five kilometres from San Pedro, the island’s only town.

Wyndham Grand Ambergris Caye Announced for Belize
Wyndham today unveiled plans to manage the 242-key Wyndham Grand Ambergris Caye, the first resort in Belize to fly the Wyndham Grand flag. Caribbean tranquillity meets Venetian romance and charm at this five-star oceanfront resort, scheduled to open in December 2018. Situated along the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea, the resort's five towers – housing elegantly designed one-, two-, and three-bedroom hotel and residential suites – feature eleven cascading waterfalls and rise up from sparkling pools connected by bridges and canals reminiscent of Venice. The various waterways create the largest pool of its kind in all of Belize for guests and residents to enjoy. Wyndham Grand Ambergris Caye – owned by Venezia del Caribe, LTD, and developed by Sandy Point Developments, LTD – will offer a signature spa, a fitness center, multiple restaurants, 7,000 square feet of meeting space, and an onsite excursion center. It puts guests within just yards of Belize's Barrier Reef, the world's second largest coral reef system, which runs the length of the country and is just three miles from San Pedro, the island's only town.

S&P - Belize long-term foreign currency rating raised to 'B-'
* S&P - Belize long-term foreign currency rating raised to 'B-' following completion of debt restructuring; outlook is stable * S&P on Belize - Raised the short-term foreign currency rating to 'B' from 'D' * S&P - Raised its long-term foreign currency rating on Belize to 'B-' from 'SD' (selective default) * S&P on Belize - Raised the long-term local currency rating to 'B-' from 'CC' and the short-term local currency rating to 'B' from 'C'

These 21 Caribbean Nations Have Been Named Major Money Laundering Countries
The US has named 21 Caribbean countries among a wider global list of Major Money Laundering Countries of 2016. The US State Department this week released the countries in its 2017 International Narcotics Control Strategy Report on Money Laundering and Financial Crimes. Belize, was slammed by the US State Department as being “vulnerable to money laundering due to the lack of enforcement of its laws and regulations, strong bank secrecy protections, geographic location, and weak investigatory and prosecutorial capacity.” The report added that the sources of money laundering in Belize are drug trafficking, tax evasion, securities fraud, and conventional structuring schemes.

Videos

March 23, 2017

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Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, West Vision (Cayo) and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials

The San Pedro Sun

Police Report
On Sunday, March 19th, Caye Caulker Police received a report of a stabbing incident, and visited a clinic on Pasero Street, where they saw a male minor of a Belize City address suffering several injuries: a stab wound to the left shoulder, right hand, as well as abrasions to the head and right hand. Investigations revealed that around 6PM, the male minor was socializing at a bar, when he got into a fight with 22-year-old Charles Robinson of San Pedro, who then inflicted injuries on the minor. While police attempted to detain Robinson, he tried to escape from police by jumping into a boat. However, in an effort to avoid being hit by the boat, the police fired a single shot at the engine causing a hole in the engine which is valued at $30,000.00. Police investigations continue.

SPTC is temporarily burning garbage at the island’s dump
To help reduce the massive amount of garbage accumulated at the town’s dump, The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) has once again resorted to the burning trash. According to Mayor Daniel Guerrero, following the Garbage Transfer Station’s temporary cease of operations in January of this year, this is the alternative until a solution is found. Mayor Guerrero has stated before that if operations at the station were to shut down permanently, the SPTC would go back to burning garbage. He told The San Pedro Sun that even though the station has resumed its day to day functions to get rid of garbage from the island, the amount is too big for them to get rid of. “We are burning trash again, but it is temporary as the transfer station cannot get rid of the garbage in a timely manner,” said Guerrero. “There is too much garbage accumulated there. But after we assist the transfer station in getting rid of the excess, we will stop burning.” It is expected that in upcoming weeks, the old practice of burning will stop and the SPTC hopes not to return to it in the future.

Retirees voice concerns over issues with QRP program
The Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) incentive program was designed by the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) to make retiring in Belize easy. Once eligible persons have met the income requirements to permanently live and retire in Belize, recipients are able to enjoy various benefits, including the convenience of not stamping their passport every 30 days at the Immigration Office. Although the QRP program has attracted hundreds of foreigners yearly, many have recently encountered setbacks within the program and have expressed their concerns to The San Pedro Sun. There seems to now be an issue with one particular benefit: the QRP card. Many expats have complained that they have not received their QRP identification card, even after applying months ago. Many, like Mike McDonnell, are now threatening to leave the program. “With no cards, we can’t benefit from the program. People have paid their fees and submitted all the required forms with no results. We were told by BTB that Immigration was printing the cards, and I have never gotten any information from Immigration. BTB first told us the cards were delayed because they were out of printer ink,” said McDonnell.

Prime Minister Barrow pushes Re-registration to July 2018
Originally set take place in July 2017, the Elections and Boundaries Commission has decided that voter re-registration will now take place after the Municipal Elections in 2018. The opposition and social partners have demanded the Government of Belize (GOB) to conduct a voter re-registration after Ruth Meighan, former immigration director, revealed that the 2012 general elections were fraudulent. During an interrogation at the Senate Hearing into the Immigration Scandal, Meighan disclosed to the Senate Select Committee that a large number of unqualified individuals were issued fraudulent nationality certificates, allowing them the opportunity to register and vote in elections. The next municipal election is scheduled for March 7, 2018, and the opposition and the social partners have rejected this decision entirely. According to them, a re-registration is necessary because of voter fraud, and proper re-registration ensures that all future elections are fair and concise.

Ambergris Today

Belize Reef Week 2017 A Success
During Reef Week 2017 Belizeans celebrated the crucial role of coral reefs to our country’s economy, food security and cultural heritage under the theme, “Turn the Tide, Respect the Reef”. The national activities occurred between March 10th 2017 and March 17th 2017. Since 2013, organizations from across Belize have come together to celebrate “Reef Week” by organizing activities that highlight the incalculable contribution of our marine resources and the Belize Barrier Reef System to the national economy and to the Belizean collective cultural identity. This year, Belizeans across the country celebrated the contributions of the Belize Barrier Reef through a multitude of activities, including delivering more than 265,000 signatures from around the world to the Prime Minister’s office asking for a ban on offshore oil, hosting a bike ride from the National Assembly building in Belmopan to the Belize City coast to highlight that decisions made in the corridors of power have impact on marine resources, organizing informational fairs, concerts, swims to the reef, participating in morning show broadcasts live from Punta Gorda, holding art exhibits, executing clean-ups, lionfish culls and launching social media competitions and poetry contests.

San Pedro Nominated For Two Orvis Awards In Fly Fishing
The excitement for San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize this month is word that a local sports fisherman and fishing lodge have been nominated for the 2017 Orris Endorsed Awards for excellence in the fly fishing industry around the world. Local sports fisherman and tour guide Carlos ‘Kechu’ Marin has been nominated for 2017 Saltwater Fly-Fishing Guide of the Year and El Pescador has been nominated for 2017 International Destination of the Year! How cool is that; we are all excited!? Orvis is a retail and mail-order business specializing in high-end fly fishing, hunting and sporting goods which has been recognized as a leader in the industry. For more than 30 years, the Orvis Company has been recognizing excellence in sporting experiences through its Endorsed Lodges, Outfitters, and Guides program. The winners of this year’s coveted awards will be announced at a ceremony during the 2017 Orvis Guide Rendezvous in Missoula, Montana, on April 28.

Misc Belizean Sources

Ministry of Health Wants You to “Unite to End TB” on World Tuberculosis Day
The Ministry of Health will once again join the global community in observing World Tuberculosis (TB) Day on March 24th, 2017. This year’s theme is “Unite to End TB”. The idea is to have patients and their physicians or health care provider think of TB as part of the national efforts to increase the number of cases diagnosed and treated successfully in Belize. This year, health regions across the country will be hosting various public information sessions including TB talks, ‘Morning Show’ appearances and booth displays to share information.

UNAUTHORIZED LAND DISTRIBUTION AND UNAUTHORIZED SURVEY AT MILES 42 and 43 GEORGE PRICE HIGHWAY
The Lands and Surveys Department has been informed that a person or persons are reportedly involved in unauthorized distribution and surveying of lots within Parcels 945, 946, 947 and 948 Mount Pleasant Registration Section,situated at the intersection of the More Tomorrow Road and George Price Highway between Miles 42 and 43 near Cotton Tree Village. The Lands and Surveys Department hereby warns the general public and especially the residents of Cotton Tree and More Tomorrow Villages and surrounding communities that: 1. Parcels 945, 946, 947 and 948 are private lands.

Coastal Awareness Week Run 4 The Coast
Next week Saturday, we end Coastal Awareness Week with a Run For The Coast! Come out and run or walk to raise awareness of the sustainable use of Belize's coastal and marine resources! There will be prizes for top finishers in all age groups and several giveaways! Register early to be one of our first twenty participants who will receive a free Coastal Awareness Week T-shirt.

Belize International Film Festival - Tropical & Topical!!!
Thanks for the review Kevin Lally and Film Journal International!! We are now accepting submissions for the 2017 Edition of BIFF. Entry forms on website at www.belizefilmfestival.com. Deadline is April 30th, 2017

Please support the TREE OF CORTEZ initiative
@summerofgoldbelize is the username to quickly locate the Facebook page for "Summer of GOLD" project... which aims to plant 100,000 Cortez Gold trees across Belize, to create a natural man-made wonder when these trees bloom every March-April.

Power interruption 6:00am to 2:00pm on Sunday, March 26: Mile 2.5 to 35 along Philip Goldson Highway
Including Belama Phases 2,3 & 4, Bella Vista, Fuller’s Crescent, Driftwood Bay, Ladyville, Lords Bank, Green Estate, Dew Drop Estate, Los Lagos, Maxboro, Sandhill, Maskall, St. Ann’s, Corozalito, Chicago, Santana, Lucky Strike, Cowhead Creek, Rockstone Pond, Boston, Grace Bank, Gardenia, Biscayne, Crooked Tree and Rhaburn Ridge. BEL to conduct critical maintenance and testing of equipment at the West Lake Substation which supplies electricity to portions of the Belize District. In the event that there is a need to balance the load on the mobile substation, portions of Belize City may experience 3 hours of power interruption.

BTB hosts Agents from UK
Top Agents from the UK are currently in country conducting a Familiarization trip to experience Belize.

Belize City House of Culture and Downtown Rejuvenation Project Community Outreach Committee Meeting
The Belize City House of Culture and Downtown Rejuvenation Project invites the public to our Community Outreach Committee Meeting on April 1st 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the House of Culture. We will be discussing up and coming events and will assess potential programs for the following months. These programs are a central component of long term museum program development..

Caye Caulker Ocean Academy Student Plans
Form 1 students are very entrepreneurial! Tuesday, April 4th come to the palapa garden beachfront, 10-3, to learn about student plans for a Teen Club, Island Gym, Coconut products, Baked Goods and much more.

Minister John Saldivar Keynote Speaker at Opening of Quality Poultry Complex in Belmopan
Belmopan Area Representative Hon. John Saldivar was Keynote Speaker at a ceremony this morning marking the official opening of a brand new complex for Quality Poultry Products in the Capital City, which serves as a wholesale distribution and retail outlet, as well as a convenience store and restaurant. Also speaking at the ceremony was Belmopan Deputy Mayor Ralston Frazer and Quality Poultry Products General Manager Raymond Barkman who gave the Area Representative and Deputy Mayor a full tour of the facility after they cut the symbolic ribbon for the official opening.

It's Cross Country Season!
3 GREAT races in 3 weekends First in the series is the the 18th Edition of the Junior Cross Country to be held on Sunday April 2nd, 9 a.m from Succotz Ferry in Cayo to BEL Headquarters, Phillip Godson Highway in Belize City. Second event is the 28th Annual Womens Cross Country to be held on Sunday April 9th starting at 9:00 a.m. from Columbus Park in San Ignacio to BTL Park in Belize City. The grand finale is the 89th Annual Holy Saturday Cross Country Cycling Classic which will be held in Saturday April 15th, 6:00 a.m from the BTL Park in Belize City to Columbus Park in San Ignacio return to finish at the BTL Park.

Volleyball Tryouts
Tryouts for the male U19 and U17 continue this weekend at SJC gym. Interested and talented U19 and U17 male athletes should come to tryouts this Saturday at 9:30 am and 3:00 pm and Sunday morning at 8:00 am at SJC gym. U19 Males must be born 1999 and after and U17 males must be born 2001 and after. Athletes will continue with practicing during the week and weekends from now through September and October when the teams participate in the CA Championship. Players outside of Belize City will train in their area during the week and then come to Belize City on weekends to train together. Player evaluation continues this weekend.

Earth Hour
Join us this Earth Hour at BTL Park on Saturday, March 25, 7:00pm for songs, stories, poems and a candlelight walk at 8:30pm to the Baron Bliss Lighthouse. Let your light shine and be a part of the movement towards building a better tomorrow for our planet and future generations. Spread the word and bring a friend along! Together, we can unite to shine a light on climate action and Change Climate Change! From its humble beginnings in 2007, WWF's Earth Hour has grown to become the world’s largest grassroots-led environmental movement for the planet, engaging more than 178 countries and territories worldwide!

Casino Mayan Princess of Chetumal closes
POR ESTO and PQ Newspapers from Mexico report that the Mayan Princess Casino of Chetumal called it quits today, as a result of unsustainable federal taxes being levied on them by the new government under Carlos Joaquín González. As a consequence of today's closure, the casino terminated more than 60 of their employees. Tal y como los diario POR ESTO! dieron a conocer de manera oportuna, el casino Mayan Princess de Chetumal cerró sus puertas desde este día, luego de ser “ahorcado” por las cargas tributarias impuestas por el gobierno federal y por el “gobierno del cambio” de Carlos Joaquín González. Iciento a las erogaciones en juegos y concursos ordenado por el gobierno joaquinista se sumó al impuesto federal ya existente por los premios de loterías, rifas, sorteos y concursos, que es de aproximadamente un 7 por ciento en el caso de Quintana Roo.

CJC EXPO 2017
Corozal Junior College invites the community to its annual Expo and Trade Show 2017. Friday, 31st March 2017, from 9am to 4pm on the CJC campus.

Library Computer Courses in Corozal
Adults and Seniors, here’s an opportunity to enhance yourself with technology. Come and learn Basic Computers Skills. Don’t be left behind. Wednesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 to 6:30pm, beginning Wednesday 29th March 2017. Cost: $5 per session. Space is limited, please contact the Corozal Public Library at 422-3751.

CEMJC Open Day 2017
YOU ARE INVITED! It is that time of the year again. It is time for the Centro Escolar Mexico Junior College’s (CEMJC) Annual Open Day. We plan to bring you lots of surprises and give you many prizes. It all happens on Thursday April 6th, 2017, beginning at 9am. Be a part of this grand event highlighting the best of CEMJC. It’s all happening at the grounds in San Roman. Pin it down on your calendar and don’t miss out.

4th Annual Citrus Festival
4th Annual Citrus Festival coming up this Sunday. Come on out with the family for a fun day! 11am to 6pm at Blue Moon in Belmopan!

Shyne to partner with Group Hug
Group Hug is VERY pleased to announce that the Office of the Music Ambassador has offered to partner with Group Hug for multiple projects in the upcoming months! The Music Ambassador, Shyne Barrow, has proposed to sponsor and host the first ever Bright Lights Talent Competition' in Hattieville, to be organised later this year! This is in addition to his continued support for our Backpack Drive and Christmas Charity Event. On behalf of our beneficiaries and members, we extend a big thank you to your dedication to our cause!

Child Advisory Body (CAB) of Belmopan cultural activity
As a part of its mandate to create child and family friendly educational initiatives, the Child Advisory Body (CAB) of Belmopan is hosting its first cultural activity. This will be held on Sunday March 26th, 2017 from 3pm to 6 pm at the Independence Park. CAB will be showchasing the CREOLE CULTURE

Easter Fest 2017
Apr 15 at 12 PM, Holiday Hotel, Barrier Reef Drive, San Pedro. In less than a month away for #Easter Fest 2017! JOIN this Belikin-Style Mega Madness 2-day event, Holy Saturday & Easter Sunday! Get those swimsuits ready!

Santa Elena Rabies Vaccinations
Rabies Vaccination Campaign underway in SISE. See flier below for the 4 locations in Santa Elena this Saturday, March 25th! Take your pet to the location nearest to your home for a FREE Rabies Vaccine.

Go Inside Belize’s San Ignacio Resort Hotel
The San Ignacio Resort Hotel was highlighted in Uptown Magazine. Their new look is amazing, inside and out, as they are currently putting the final touches on the exterior. Cayo's in town jungle. Keep up the great service, SIRH! "San Ignacio Resort Hotel in San Ignacio, Belize underwent a cosmetic revamp for its 40th birthday, so it could continue offering guests unparalleled luxury in the jungle of Central America. The saw replaced the scalpel to give this luxury property a facelift that includes a new contemporary and Mediterranean-style lobby, complete with a new Baroque-themed bar; a formal dining room; extended outdoor seating; and an overhaul of existing suites. The 26-room hotel also added two new suites that are outfitted with in-room Jacuzzis."

AN EXPERIENCE WITH PHOTOGRAPHY: MARA SÁNCHEZ-RENERO
The Embassy of Mexico to Belize, in collaboration with the Museum of Belize and NICH, kindly invite all amateur / professional photographers and general public interested in the Visual Arts to participate in the FREE workshop: AN EXPERIENCE WITH PHOTOGRAPHY: MARA SÁNCHEZ-RENERO Dates: Thursday April 6th- 11th Daily Sessions from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Saturday April 8th: 11:30 a.m.- 3:30 p.m.

East Indian Community Leaders and NICH Participate in Indian Diaspora World Convention

UK Travel Agents Familiarization Tour of Belize

Channel 7

More Pieces of Body In River Near Blackman Eddy
Yesterday we told you about the 'crocus' bag containing the amputated hands and legs of a human. The bag was found about a quarter mile downstream from the Iguana Creek Bridge, and was discovered by the brothers of 18 year old Kerona Ara, who was murdered over a week ago. Since then police have been working on identifying the origin of these dismembered body parts, and earlier today they got another clue. This morning another bag was found a little further down the river. This bag contained a torso without legs, arms and head. And while police have yet to positively match it to the body parts found yesterday, eyewitnesses have told us that the body appears to be that of a female, which lines up with reports we received yesterday.

Another Mamaeyal Fatal
A Yo Creek Villager was killed in an accident at the notorious Mameyal curve on the Northern Highway. This morning around 8:00, 23 year old Matthew Bull was heading to Orange Walk on his motorcycle when he tried to overtake a cane truck at the curve. Bull slammed into an oncoming Ford Pickup truck and was flung violently off his cycle unto the pavement. 31 year old Hernan Cortez was driving the truck at the time. Police haven’t disclosed if Cortez will be charged. Over the years, there have been countless serious and fatal accidents at the Mameyal Curve – which is at mile 57 on the northern highway.

Santa Elena Fire Claims Two Houses
A blaze took down 2 homes this evening in Santa Elena. Gerald Gregory Vasquez was upstairs with his wife at their George Price Avenue home when their daughter, who lives in front of them alerted them of the fire downstairs. They rushed out of the house and tried to contain the blaze but it engulfed their home and spread to their relative’s house next door. this video captured by a passerby shows the house in free burn stage. The flames destroyed everything. Vasquez lost about $15,000 worth of belongings. Reports in the town suggest that it was arson, but the fire department has not released any official report as yet. If you would like to contact or help Vasquez and his family you can call 650 1579.

Man Accused of Chopping Sister To Death Appears Before Court Disoriented
Today Elijah Burke, who is accused of chopping his sister, Juliane Burke, to death appeared in the Magistrate's Court. Burke was scheduled to be arraigned for murder, but when Magistrate Carlon Mendoza called his name, Burke said that he wasn't Elijah, and that was the name of his brother who happens to look like him. Mendoza asked him again, and Burke again said no. This denial of identity led the prosecutor to believe that Burke was not in his right mind, and asked that the court have him examined. Mendoza obliged and ordered that a psychiatric evaluation be conducted. Despite his behaviour, the charge of murder was still read to him and he was remanded to prison, and is scheduled to appear again on June 21st.

COLA Crew Vindicated Of Tyre Fire Charge
In October of 2016, at the height of the teachers’ strike, unknown persons started a tyre fire on the Belcan Bridge. It was put out in a few minutes, and didn't lead to anything else, but police moved quickly to find and charge the persons responsible. Within a few days, they said that the activist group COLA and its allies were responsible. COLA President Giovanni Brackett, Perry “Stix” Smith, Clayburn Pascascio, Adrian Avaloy and two minors were charged with causing a bonfire to be set without police permission. They all pleaded not guilty when they first appeared in court five months ago. Southside Commander Chester Williams said it was a “methodical investigation” and that police had all the evidence. But, today in Magistrate’s court, the case fizzled and the charges were struck out against all 6 accused. That gave Brackett and his attorney an opportunity to do some chest-thumping against the government:…

Hunting Accident Causes Fratricide In Toledo
One brother has killed another in a hunting accident in the Toledo district. 31 year old Geraldo Cus and his 22 year old brother Leonardo went hunting yesterday evening around 6:00. They ventured about 10 miles outside of San Miguel. According to the younger Cus, he and his brother got separated, and a couple hours later he accidentally shot Geraldo in the chest. After realizing what he'd done Cus called his family and rushed Geraldo to the Punta Gorda Hospital where he succumbed to his wounds late last night. Police are still investigating, but at newstime, no charges and been finalized for Cus.

The Enduring Mystery Of “Mr. Middleton” Unravels
Since the first Wednesday of this month, we’ve been showing you how the mysterious character, known only as “Mr. Middleton”, was being brought up regularly in the Senate Hearings on Immigration. His name was first called by Immigration Officer Mark Tench, as the man who somehow managed to get his hands on at least 6 of the 8 stolen visas which went missing from the Immigration Department’s Western Border back in November of 2012. Officer Tench then pointed fingers at Patrick Tillett, UDP insider and former Belize City Council employee, who was hired to perform a visa service for 6 Chinese Nationals. Tillett was trying to get their help to get back money they had paid to this “Mr. Middleton”. The plot thickened even more when Tillett appeared before the Senate 2 weeks ago, and disclosed that he received a total of $36,000 from those 6 Chinese “clients” to try to get them Belize visas. He said $1,000 per visa was his fee to make sure that the application was in order. $2,000 was to go into the Government’s purse for the visa application. But, the lion’s share, $3,000, was being paid to this “Mr. Middleton” who was hired to take the visa applications into the Belmopan Immigration office and do whatever “follow-up” was necessary.

Casanova: Middleton Not My Man
So, while Immigration Officer Inez Casanova was able to positively identify Barton Middleton to the Senate Select Committee, she wanted to make clear that she has no relationship to him. In the Auditor General’s report on the the 8 missing visas, she was quoting a report from Immigration Officer Vernon Leslie. Leslie identifies Middleton as her common-law husband. But, that’s not right, and today while she had the nation listening in on the Senate Hearings, Casanova took the opportunity to make it clear that she has no relationship to Middleton. She told the Senate Committee that this has hurt her reputation, and she wants the record cleared: Inez Casanova - Immigration Officer: "It is my understanding that I'm here to be of any possible assistance to the Honourable Senate Select Committee in relation to one matter and not because I am in any way a part of any wrong doing or irregularities at the immigration department. That one matter is mentioned of my name in relation to missing visas at the immigration department Benque Veijo station.

What Did Casanova Really Know About Barton?
Okay, so, Barton Middleton isn’t Casanova’s common-law husband, but what exactly is he to her? And how did she manage to convince him to show up and tell the truth about those 6 stolen visas? That’s what the Senate Select Committee wanted her to explain today, and her answers just weren’t adding up. At the end, the Senators began suspecting that she knew more than she was willing to disclose, and so they grilled her for almost 2 hours on the topic. We’ll have the blow-by-blow account of that conversation in tomorrow’s newscast, but here’s an excerpt of the questions she was being asked about Barton Middleton: Hon. Eamon Courtenay - PUP Senator: "I just wanted to know the circumstances of how you decided to say well get in contact with this Mr. Middleton." Inez Casanova - Immigration Officer: "I had called?" Hon. Eamon Courtenay: "As I understand it Mr. Venon from Benque came to Orange Walk and said we are looking for Mr. Middleton in relation to the missing visas. The question I am asking is according to you, you know two Mr. Middleton, Mr. Eugene and Mr. Barton. My question is how is it that you decided to refer them to Mr. Barton or why you called Mr. Barton and he came?"

A Tale Of Hacking
So, from skepticism in Inez Robinson’s testimony, the Senate appeared almost disbelieving of the answers that Erwin Robinson was providing them. He’s one of the Immigration Officers who went on suspension back in September 2013 for the Won Hong Kim Passport, which was a fraudulent production from start to finish. They all faced a tribunal from the Public Service Commission. At the end he was restored to duty as a public officer, but he lost his job because it was determined that he, or someone using his profile in the Department’s passport took a picture of a picture of Won Hong Kim. This South Korean fugitive couldn’t have been in Belize to take a passport picture because he was in lock down in a Taiwanese detention center at the time. So, did Robinson do it? Well, when the Senate put that one to him, he categorically, denied, and he shared his surprising theory that the passport machine’s user computer was hacked, and that he was being set up as the fall guy. Here’s that part of today’s hearing:

Shyne Urges Artists To Protest Against Businesses Countrywide
Music Ambassador Shyne Barrow is the CEO of BSCAP (BEE-SCAP) the Belizean Society of composers, Authors and Publishers. He’s in the new news tonight because in a letter dated March 13th, he's urging music creators to protest against businesses who don't pay rights fees for using their music. Shyne says, quote, “be prepared to engage in protests of all businesses nationwide who are violating the copyright act and chancing our members….if all of our members come together and take action in the form of nationwide demonstrations our voices will be heard and businesses will comply.” End quote. Here’s what he's talking about: under the copyright law, anyone who plays music in public should pay a royalty fee to the creator or publisher of that song. So, if you hear, let’s say, Supra G’s “Party Insane” playing in a nightclub, in a store, or on the radio, Supra G should get a few cents everytime it plays. Shyne is trying to get local businesses to sign license agreements with BSCAP to pay a monthly user fee, but so far only a literally handful have signed on. And so, facing widespread noncompliance, he’s urging music creators to protest against these big businesses that want to sign. We asked him about it today when we found him in the Mesopotamia area:….

Corned Beef Concerns
Is your corned beef safe? Several Caribbean countries say that if it comes from Brazil, it’s not. The governments of Jamaica and Barbados have instituted a temporary ban on the widely eaten canned food, while several others are discussing whether or not they should do the same. But why such extreme measures, and should you be worried too? According to reports, several major Brazilian meat processing companies have been selling rotten beef and poultry. And that's where Grace Kennedy, one of the largest distributors of corned beef in the Caribbean, gets their beef from. Apparently, many of these companies paid bribes to auditors in exchange for fraudulent sanitary licenses. Since the bans were implemented, Grace has confirmed that their suppliers in Brazil have consistently qualified for licenses from the British Retail Consortium, which sets global manufacturing and quality standards. The government of Belize has yet to officially acknowledge the situation, or give any information on whether they are making an evaluation.

”Water No Get Enemy”
Don’t waste water: we have all heard that phrase more than enough times but on World Water Day, it never gets old. Today a forum and fair were held at the Princess Hotel to celebrate water day. There were presentations on various topics including Water sanitation and hygiene, recycling wastewater among others. A number of government agencies set up information booths as well. Hydrologist Tennielle Williams told us more about this year’s theme. Tennielle Williams- Hydrologist: “Today is World Water Day indeed, it’s a day taken to highlight the importance of water and the role it plays. In the UN from 1993 they designated March 22nd as World Water Day where we take actions on water issues. Today is not really different from any other water day we’ve held, we just target different sectors or different issues concerning water management and this year the theme is Waste Water and the campaign that we are promoting is “Why waste it?” So the theme is waste water and we are saying why waste water? We want to impart that it is not just waste. It’s not to just to use it and you throw it away.

PUP Calls For Wilfred’s Removal (Again)
Last week Friday, Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington held a press briefing where he made some controversial remarks. He likened Belize with the unresolved Guatemalan claim to a squatter without title for the land he's been occupying. He added that Belize’s maritime borders have never even been agreed upon. Well - not surprisingly - the PUP isn't happy with that and the opposition is again calling for his removal. In a release the party says it is, quote, “appalled and outraged” at the comments. The PUP says is is, quote, “unbelievable that the man who heads negotiations with Guatemala is seemingly unaware that our nation’s maritime borders are established.” The PUP has a different take. IT says, quote, “not only does Belize have definite maritime borders as described in the Constitution of Belize and the Maritime Areas Act, but further, that those borders are recognized and respected by all nations, and even by Guatemala which refuses to relinquish its claim to Belize.” It argues quote, “To describe Belizeans as squatters is not only despicable, but dangerous”. And it closes with a a familiar refrain, quote, “We demand that the Prime Minister remove or reprimand the Foreign Minister who continues to mismanage the situation with Guatemala.”

Granny With A Crack Pipe?
A 66 year old grandmother was taken before the court today for possession of a crack pipe. But she was quick to tell the court that she was merely fixing pipe for someone and that she does not smoke crack. Pitts, who had to walk with a piece of PVC pipe as a cane was brought in the prison van and escorted into Court #5 to be read a single charge of possession of a pipe before Magistrate Carlon Mendoza. But despite her denial of crack use, Marjorie Pitts pleaded guilty to possession of pipe and was fine $150.00, or in default, 2 months in prison.

Remembering “Philco”
Earlier this month, well known attorney and politician Phillip Palacio died after a valiant fight against cancer. Today his colleagues from at the Bar gathered for a special sitting of the Supreme Court in his honour. We spoke to Kareem Musa, who knew him as both and attorney and politician for the PUP, about the impact of the loss... Hon. Kareem Musa - Attorney: "Phillip was a very dear friend of mine and many of my colleagues not just in the legal fraternity but also in the political world. Mr. Palacio ran for us in the Mesopotamia position and he put up a valiant fight but we're talking about a true humanitarian, we are talking about a very humble individual who look out for the poor, who looked out for the marginalised and so it is a huge loss and I really just want to convey my respects. I want to convey my condolences to his family, he has a very young family, we all feel for him and it truly is a sad day for us."

Shyne Stayed The Course In Mesop
Now the man who wants to replace Finnegan for the UDP is also making news tonight. Earlier in the news, you heard Shyne Barrow talking about his advocacy as the CEO of the Belizean Society of composers, Authors and Publishers. But, we met him doing his political work in the Mesopotamia division. Two weeks ago, the incumbent in that area Michael Finnegan - who happens to be Shyne’s uncle - announced that he is retiring from electoral politics, and wants Shyne to succeed him. Today Shyne told us he's been waiting two years on that endorsement:… Shyne Barrow - UDP Mesopotamia Hopeful "I am grateful and honoured that my uncle favours me and has endorsed me and like to see me be his successor but ultimately as I believe he has said, the people of Mesopotamia will make that decision, the constituence will make the ultimate decision, I am here to work for them and to serve them so I am continuing to build my relationship with them so when the time comes for them to make that decision, hopefully I will be the person that they will choose but there is no automatic succession, it's certainly is a honour and a privilege and I had to work for two years for my uncle to favour me and to endorse me because you use to abstract me all the time and say bwai da man no say nothing, da man no say nothing, da man say he di run again, that was an ongoing joke between you and I. So finally I've worked hard enough, he pay attention to what people are saying in the division and he is confident enough that I can continue in his footsteps and secure that legacy and ultimately the people will decide so I am hopeful and I am definitely looking forward to getting the support of the people in Mesopotamia because ultimately they are the ones that will decide my fate."

Julius, Of Benchwarmers and Advice
And while Shyne hopes he’s chosen an able replacement for Michael Finnegan, he surely doesn't want to be a benchwarmer. That’s the dismissive term PUP Deputy Leader Julius Espat has used for those unelected persons that his leader John Briceno has put at the forefront of the party and on the executive. Today in Cotton Tree we asked him to clarify his remarks:… Hon. Julius Espat- Area Rep, Cayo South: “It is not criticism, it is advice and there is a major difference between that. I fundamentally believe that the area representatives are the people that the people have put their trust in. We are figure heads; we are the voice of the people. So if we are the voice of the people and we live in a democratic system then I believe the voice of the people should at least be around the table. I no even the ask fu mek them vote. Just to be around the table so that you can listen to when decisions are being made and that you can on behalf of your people make wah lee advice and that when the decisions are made you can go back to your people to explain to them what the policies are. What I said, I stand by but it’s not to hurt the party. I’ve never been someone to hurt my party. I love my party and I know that my party will form the government. I just believe that you prepare for the worst and you no ride the wave; that’s been my firm you know, prepare for the worst and if the wave come well boss da gravy.”

Julius Ain’t Scared of Redistricting
The media also asked Espat what he thinks about redistricting. His large division of Cayo South is certainly going to get downsized, but he feels that the entire exercise is wrong-headed:… Hon. Julius Espat- Area Rep, Cayo South: “The fair way of doing it, let’s assume how many people should be in a constituency, I have presently going close to eight thousand. I think each area rep should handle more like ten thousand. With the proper resources you can do it, we dih do it with zero resources basically, so you can do it. So imagine you divide the country 150…how much we got? That’s more or less how much you have voting, you divide that by 10 thousand you a got 15 constituencies. Now, that would be more efficient but what deh wah do? They wah change it from 31 to 41, you a got 10 more Minista, 10 thieving minista more, with 10 vehicles more, with 10 staff more, with 10 miss use of money more. Is that what we want? In Cayo South it makes no difference. If they buss it up inna three ih a be three PUP seat, so to us it doesn’t matter.”

A Fence For Cotton Tree School
We met Espat today in Cotton Tree Village where he had installed a fence for the village school. As an opposition representative, he had to beg sponsorship and he told us how he did it:…

Feeling Festival 2016
And keeping it on the kids, we close tonight with highlights from night one of the preschool festival of the arts which took place on Monday at the Bliss center. Enjoy the Belize District presenaitons, and have a great night…

Kareem Riled Up For Budget
And keeping it on politics tomorrow is the first day of the budget debate. The PUP and UDP Representatives will go back and forth on the virtues and vices of the budget. The Opposition have called it "the Barrow bogus budget” and Today PUP Area Rep. for Caribbean Shores, Kareem Musa, gave us a preview of his angle of attack: Hon. Kareem Musa - Area Rep, Caribbean Shores: "It is a train wreck that is what it is. It is the debris after a train wreck that all of us as Belizeans are standing around debris looking at it. Essentially the train that Mr. Barrow has been driving over the last 8 years was an unsustainable one that can only be characterised by wasteful spending of the people's money and I'm speaking specifically of the petro-Caribe spending over the last 3 and a half years, some 350 million dollars. I'm speaking specifically about the 560 million dollars that he paid for BTL and if you listen to Mr. Barrow still blaming the PUP over a super bond when the payments for that super bond is only 50 million a year, 25 million US but in just two years Isani, in just two years he spent almost one billion dollars on petro-Caribe spending which has no accountability whatsoever. If you recall the month before the general election of 2015, Mr. Barrow brought another supplementary to the house where he spent 40 million dollars and you know what that said?

Forest Day At Sacred Heart
Taking a break now from politics, yesterday was the Forest for Life celebration at the Sacred Heart High School and Junior College Auditorium in San Ignacio Town. More than 800 students focused on the dependency on forests. Keynote speaker Marcello Windsor explained that in 30 yearsBelize’s forest cover has gone down form 80% to 60%:…

Kenzle Hulse Arraigned
Last night, we told you how 27 year-old Kenzle Hulse, son of Agriculture Minister Godwin Hulse, was charged yesterday for harm. Well, what police hadn’t said was that Hulse was arraigned yesterday, and he’s out on bail tonight. His case has been adjourned for May 18, 2017, but what is of concern to outsiders is he wasn’t charged with aggravated assault with a firearm. You’ll remember that he is being accused by Albert Santos Lopez, a cohune walk businessman. Lopez reported to police that Kenzle Hulse allegedly hit him in the face with a licensed firearm.

Channel 5

In Blackman Eddy, More Bones Found; Who Do They Belong To?
More body parts were found this morning in the Belize River in Blackman Eddy, Cayo District.  On Tuesday afternoon, the hands and feet of a man were found stuffed in [...]

Inez Casanova Speaks About Relationship with Barton Middleton
A current and a former Immigration officer both appeared before today’s public hearing of the Senate Special Select Committee in Belmopan.  The first, Inez Casanova, has not been directly accused [...]

Immigration Officer Tells How Authorities Got to Middleton
We will come to more of the Orange Walk-based immigration officer’s relationship with Middleton later on, but first, she revealed that she assisted Immigration officers who came to her asking [...]

Casanova Says Relationship Never Got Personal
Casanova claims that her relationship with Barton Middleton did not go past occasional conversations while she was driving him to town, and never about Immigration-related matters. But Senators seized on [...]

How Well Did Inez Casanova Know Barton Middleton?
How well can you really know a person – especially one to whom you would occasionally allow access to ride in your personal vehicle? In the case of Inez Casanova, [...]

Erwin Robinson Says He Took Won Hong Kim’s Picture for Passport
Former data entry clerk at the Immigration Department, Erwin Robinson, spent six years in the Public Service, five of those in Immigration, until he was suspended over the Won Hong [...]

COLA Walks Tall Away from “Belcan 6” Bonfire Charges
They have been flying under the radar, but today months after they were charged for setting a bonfire at the BelCan Bridge, a group of activists went back to court [...]

Erratic Sister-Killer Elijah Burke in Court; Faces Psychiatric Evaluation
Twenty-six-year-old Elijah Burke has been ordered a psychiatric evaluation after appearing in Magistrate’s Court earlier today to face a charge of murder.  The younger sibling of Julian Burke was detained [...]

Caribbean Shores’ Kareem Musa Says Budget is a “Trainwreck”
The debate begins this Thursday in the House with the budget rebuttal by the Leader of the Opposition, John Briceño.  The P.U.P. Area Representative Kareem Musa will also go on [...]

Musa Questions Where Surplus Will Come From
Musa also points to what he describes as an odd proposition being made by the Prime Minister where he puts forward that there will be a turnaround of the economy [...]

Ex-data Clerk Can’t Explain How Kim’s Picture Got in System
Back to the senate inquiry… earlier we shared with you Erwin Robinson’s recollection of the day “Won Hong Kim” purportedly visited the Immigration Department to take his passport picture.  But [...]

Robinson Says He Will Never Forget Kim
Robinson’s inability to explain the Kim caper haunts him, as he was unable to hold a job in the Public Service following his suspension. But as he was shown photographs [...]

Julius Espat Believes “Messengers” Will be Blamed in Senate Inquiry
As telling information is revealed at the ongoing senate inquiry, we asked the Cayo South area rep Julius Espat if he thought that the so called big wigs would face [...]

Working with Waste Water on World Water Day
In light of World Water Day celebrated across the globe today, staggering facts and data have been published that brings into sharp focus the shortage of access to potable water [...]

Cotton Tree School Gets New Fence
A primary school in Cotton Tree Village, Cayo District, is a safer place tonight. The compound, which was previously exposed to criminal elements roaming the area, is now properly fenced [...]

Julius Espat Believes Redistricting Will Not be Fair
The sprawling Cayo South division has below eight thousand registered voters. The P.U.P. has been lobbying for a re-registration exercise to take place this year, but the process has been [...]

P.U.P. lashes Foreign Minister over Borders Comment
Before departing Belize last Friday, the Secretary General of the O.A.S., Luis Almagro, held a press briefing.  While Almagro did not take questions from the press relying only on a [...]

Coastal Zone Holds Forum
Earlier this week the CZMAI launched its third Coastal Awareness Week and we showed you how they kicked off the activities with a trivia challenge for Belize City primary schoolers. [...]

Philip Palacio Recognized at Special Sitting of Supreme Court
This morning in the courtroom of Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin, colleagues in the legal fraternity convened a special sitting in honor of the late attorney Philip Palacio.  The former People’s [...]

CTV3

Twenty Three Year Old Killed In Traffic Accident
The family of a twenty three old Orange Walkeno is tonight mourning his death after his life came to a tragic end following a traffic accident near the Mameyal curve on the Philip Goldson Highway. The incident involving a Ford Ranger Pickup truck and a motor cycle played out a little after 8:00 this morning and claimed the life of Matthew Bull, a resident of Yo Creek Village in the Orange Walk District. Information we were able to gather at the scene indicate that Bull was traveling towards Orange Walk Town when just a few miles in the outskirts of town he tried to overtake a cane truck travelling in the same direction when he collided into this white Ford Ranger pickup truck which was traveling in the opposite direction towards Corozal. The name of the driver is yet to be released by police.

Immigration Clerk Discloses Penner Brought Chinese National For Application
Today, the Immigration clerk who was centrally involved in processing the passport application for the infamous Won Hong Kim testified in public for the first time. Erwin Robinson is no longer employed at the Immigration Department, having been suspended and then transferred to multiple departments leading to his resignation, but he knows a lot about what goes on at Immigration. In particular, he is very knowledgeable about the Won Hong Kim fiasco because while employed at the Immigration Robinson was the data entry clerk who entered Kim’s bio-data in the system and passed on the application for approval. The Kim file and passport printed are filled with discrepancies, featuring principally that Kim was in a Taiwan jail at the time and could not have personally applied for the passport as required by immigration laws. So what transpired inside the Immigration Department for Robinson to carry through with the application? That’s what the Senate hearing tried to find out today.

Immigration Officers Give In To Political Pressures Or Else...
In Robinson’s testimony, you would have heard him mention that the Kim application was processed with speed because it was brought in by Minister Penner. The intimidating role of Ministers and political agents has been established in previous testimonies, and today we heard Robinson’s version of how and why immigration officers must give in to political pressure or suffer the consequences. Erwin Robinson - Former Data Entry Clerk I: “We have minister that bring in people many different times, well I guess are their friends or acquaintances and we usually just help out and assist in whatever way we could like ministers are usually first priority basically in any government office I guess.”

Mr. Middleton Has A Face And First Name, All Revealed In Senate Hearing
The elusive “Mr. Middleton” whose name surfaced at the Senate hearings in regards to the case of 8 missing visas from the Western Border got a face and first name during today’s hearing when Immigration Officer Inez Cassanova took the witness seat. Cassanova is named in the Audit report as an acquaintance of the man who was trading visas with Patrick Tillett for a price of $6,000. But 8 of the visas used in the business in 2012 were linked to stolen visas and this raised alarm. Until today, no one was willing or able to identify Mr. Middleton. When Cassanova took the bench, she commenced with a prepared statement in which she said she will sue anyone who makes false allegations against her.

Robinson Says He Became The Prodigal Son
Former Immigration clerk Erwin Robinson also discussed the repercussions of the Kim Won Hong scandal on his professional life. According to him, he became a sort of pariah in the public service. Erwin Robinson - Former Data Entry Clerk I: “The reason I stop working for the government at the time when I left they sent me to the health department after my suspension after I cleared my case they sent me to the health department and I asked them I would want work somewhere other than the health department because they moved me around; they put me at Lands then they put me somewhere else then they say we are not to put you there so I was like what is happening and the lady told me we are going to real nobody wants you, no government office wants you, people literally say no don’t send him here and all of this I had to gone through.”

LOVE FM

Superbond 3.0 Brings New Ratings from Standard and Poor
Five days ago, Standard and Poor’s Rating Agency lowered Belize’s long term foreign currency rating from a CC to SD meaning Selective Default. In addition to that Belize was moved from the status of Credit Watch with negative implications where it was placed on February 21. In the short term foreign currency rating, Belize was […]

Belize Tasked to Find Alternative Industry to Replace Sugar
Jamaica, Belize and Mauritius were among a group of more than 10 nations that benefited from quota- and duty-free access for one point six million metric tons of mostly raw-sugar shipments to the European Union in 2015-16. The amount, which can vary year-by-year, represented about half the European bloc’s imports of the commodity.” This statement comes out […]

Belize’s Bid for $10M Approved by CDB
Yesterday we told you about the forty million US dollars grant that the Caribbean Development Bank, CDB would use to help Caribbean nations including Belize. Today, the Government confirmed that Belize’s bid for ten million US dollars was approved and has been earmarked to expand services to poor and vulnerable communities across Belize. A release […]

Human Limbs Found in Crocus Sac
Belmopan Police are trying to identify a mutilated body that was found shortly before one o’clock this afternoon in Black Man Eddy Village. According to reports, four men from the village had gone hunting for iguana about quarter miloe from the Iguana Creek Bridge. The men were reportedly pinning the iguanas and putting in their […]

Police Nabs Man for His Sibling’s Murder
Twenty six year old Elijah Burke has been detained by Belize City police. A wanted poster was issued yesterday after his sister, 29 year old Julian Burke succumbed to her injuries. Elijah Burke is accused of chopping his sister repeatedly on Sunday night outside her home on First Street in the Kings Park Area. Julian […]

30 Murders in 80 Days
Today marks eighty days into the year 2017 and Belize has seen thirty murders occurring in various parts of the country but predominantly on the south side of Belize City. Of the thirty homicides, fifteen of them occurred in old capital with fourteen happening on the south side and one on the north side. It […]

Belize to Acquire Weather Stations via Agreement with Insurance Facility
The Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility Segregated Portfolio Company, CCRIF SPC today signed a grant agreement with the Government of Belize. That Agreement provides GOB with 100,000 dollars to purchase forty to fifty automatic weather stations that will provide the meteorological service of Belize with access to real time rainfall data. The agreement was signed […]

Minister’s Son Charged on Allegations of Harm
27-year-old, Kenzle Hulse, the son of Minister Godwin Hulse was arraigned this morning in the Belmopan Magistrate’s Court where he faced a charge of harm. The charge comes more than a month after the incident occurred at Hulse’s business establishment in that municipality where he allegedly accosted a customer who had reportedly refused to pay […]

Anglican Archbishop on Working Visit to Belize
The Anglican Church in Belize is hosting the Most Reverend Dr. John Holder, current Archbishop of the Church in the province of the West Indies and See of Barbados. He is here in Belize to attend three meetings. The first was on Saturday on the House of Bishops, the second was on the Provincial Doctrinal […]

Complaints on Immigration Investigated by Ombudsman
In yesterday’s newscast we told you of complaints reaching the Office of the Ombudsman surrounding the Belize Police Department and the Belize Central Prison. In our recent interview with Ombudsman, Lionel Arzu we also learnt of some complaints made against the Immigration Department. LIONEL ARZU “Complaints against immigration would vary. From our records it indicates […]

Breaking Belize News

Three men to be retried for 2012 murder of BDF soldier
Three (3) men namely, Tyrone Meighan, Brandon Baptist and Orel Leslie Jr., who walked away in October 2015 for the shooting murder of BDF soldier James Noralez, are to be retried for murder. Noralez was reportedly lured by the men to the junction of […]

Association of Protected Areas not happy with GoB’s departure tax increase
The Association of Protected Areas Management Organization (APAMO) is not happy with Barrow’s cash strapped Government of Belize (GoB) intent to increase the conservation portion of the departure tax for non-Belizean from BZ $7.50 to BZ $40 on April 1st 2017. The additional BZ […]

Parents camping out all night to get their kids into prestigious primary school
A group of 17 parents are camping out in front of St. Andrew’s Anglican School in San Ignacio town tonight ahead of registration day tomorrow. The parents have been there from 4:00 a.m. today waiting to be the first in line to secure a […]

GOB issues warning to unauthorized land surveyors
The Lands and Surveys Department issued a release today stating that it has been informed that a person or persons are reportedly involved in unauthorized distribution and surveying of lots within Parcels 945, 946, 947 and 948 Mount Pleasant Registration Section, situated at the […]

Ministry of Health Wants You to “Unite to End TB” on World Tuberculosis Day
The Ministry of Health is joining the global community in observing World Tuberculosis (TB) Day on March 24th, 2017. This year’s theme is “Unite to End TB”. The focus is to increase awareness of the TB national response among patients and healthcare providers in order […]

San Ignacio man missing
A young man from 3rd street in San Ignacio town has been reported as missing since March 11, 2017. The family of 18-year-old Daniel “Blacky” Bennett; is seeking public assistance in locating him. Bennett was last seen on Saturday, March 11. Since then, no […]

Quality Poultry Products opens brand new complex in Belmopan
This morning, Quality Poultry Products inaugurated their brand new complex in Belmopan which will serve as a wholesale distribution and retail outlet as well as a convenience store and restaurant. Belmopan Area Representative, John Saldivar was the keynote speaker at the event. Belmopan Deputy […]

Man arrested for wandering child
Last night around10:45 , while police were on patrol on Flamboyant Street in Belize City, officers saw a 10-year-old minor walking alone. He was questioned and then escorted to his father’s residence. Simon August, a 44-year-old fisherman of a Marigold Lane address was later arrested and charged for the offense, “Allow or Suffer a Child to be in a Public Place.”

Man shoots and kills brother while hunting
Yesterday Toledo police visited the Punta Gorda Hospital where officers saw Geraldo Cus, 31, a construction worker of Santa Elena, Cayo with a gunshot wound to the chest. Investigations revealed that he and his younger brother Leonardo Cus, 22, went hunting approximately ten miles outside of San Miguel at around 6:00 p.m. They reportedly got separated at about 8:00 p.m.

Human remains found near Iguana Creek, Cayo
Yesterday around 1:06 p.m. Cayo police responded to reports of body parts found in a bag in the river near the Iguana Creek Bridge in Cayo. A team of police officers visited the area where approximately 900 meters down the Belize River, a black plastic bag containing a white bag was discovered.

Fatal traffic accident in Orange Walk
Reports reaching our newsroom indicate that there was a fatal road traffic accident near the Mameyal curve in the Orange Walk district. A white pick up and a motorcycle reportedly collided. Unconfirmed reports suggest that the driver of the motorcycle died on the scene. […]

Brother kills brother in Toledo
A man is in trouble after he killed his brother last night in Toledo. According to reports, sometime after midnight the two were hunting in San Miguel Village when one brother thought that he saw a peccary and opened fire. However he injured his […]

Blogs

Captain Carlos ‘Kechu’ Marin Jr. nominated for the 2017 Orvis Saltwater Fly-fishing Guide Award!
El Pescador’s very own, Carlos ‘Kechu’ Marin Jr. has been nominated for the Saltwater Fly-fishing Guide of the year as part of the 2017 Orvis Endorsed Awards. With over 30-years of experience, Kechu is a premier guide in Belize’s fly-fishing industry, guiding out of El Pescador Fly Fishing Lodge. “My father was one of the first guides at the El Pescador. My four brothers are all guides in the area, my brother Emir and I strictly guide for El Pescador. It’s a family tradition!” says Marin.

Naia Resort and Spa, Placencia: Unlike Any Other in Belize
A few months ago, a new resort opened called Naia Resort and Spa. I visited for a nice long weekend and I was WOW-ed…seriously. In more ways than one. Naia is pretty awesome. No expense was spared on this amazing spa and the flawless details. But equally impressive is the landscape and the sustainable development of the land. This is not a property where the native forest and brush was leveled…they took great care in planning this resort and surrounding community. Even moving flowers like orchids. Front Desk, Naia Resort and Spa, Placencia, Belize This huge resort surrounded by 200 acres of beautifully, thoughtfully designed and tended land – filled with old growth trees, mangroves and orchids, with thousands of feet of beach front, sunset lagoon and mountain views is spectacular (yes…I said spectacular). The new modern resort and the beautiful full grown trees, orchids and water features…

Belize and The Sharing Economy
I believe that Belizeans are unaware of how the emergence of the so-called “sharing economy” is affecting them. We know that it may be the greatest technological disruption the travel industry has seen as of late, however, it is only seen as something that is affecting developed countries like the US. We see in the news – the various litigations between cities and Uber/Airbnb and we think that it is only a big city problem. We think it doesn’t matter if Airbnb encourages gentrification and raises real estate prices in places like New York. However, of course this can be tied back to problems Belizeans will also have. Lately, I have been hearing a lot of complaints about how Belize tourism visitor numbers keep rising but hotels are actually seeing low occupancy rates. There is speculation that the government may be making the tourism numbers up, however, I believe that the issue is that apartment/room sharing sites like Airbnb and VRBO are taking up many of the visitors. The last time I checked there were over 300 rentals. You may say that this isn’t a problem because everyone deserves a little side hustle, however, investing in a hotel is not a minor investment and if it goes belly up the ramifications are widespread. Hotels pay taxes and follow certain regulations, which many individuals who list their places on sites like Airbnb avoid. Yet people who stay at Airbnb sites use the same resources from the town or city, which are subsidized by taxes. The point of me sharing the above is not because I want Airbnb to disappear, it’s so that you are more cognizant of what is happening.

Thu, 23 Mar 2017 — Coastal Awareness Week 2017
On Thursday, March 23rd, 2017 Coastal Awareness Week 2017 goes north to Corozal for our Tertiary Level Competition & Information Fair. This event will be held at the Rudolph Wade Auditorium (Corozal Junior College) from 9am to 3pm. Five groups from tertiary institutions from across Belize will be competing for a grand prize of $3,000. Come and visit booths from Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute, Inter-American Development Bank Belize, Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association, Fisheries Development, Friends of Corozal United for Sustainability, and Development Finance Corporation.

International Sources

Fulbright Student Fellowships 2018-2019 Opened for Application
The Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Embassy is pleased to announce the opportunity to compete for 2018-2019 Fulbright Student Fellowships for graduate study in the United States leading to a Master’s or Doctoral degree. Fulbright Student Fellowship grants provide round-trip transportation to the United States, as well as tuition fees, and living expenses for full-time graduate study. Grant provisions do not include financial support for dependents.

U.S. Army South and BDF work together to provide projects and services to communities in Belize
U.S. Army South, in partnership with the Belize Defence Force (BDF), and the Ministries of Defence, Health, and Education are proud to announce “Beyond the Horizon 2017” (BTH), a collaborative training exercise involving numerous U.S., Belizean, and international participants. BTH will provide free medical and dental services, as well as build medical and educational facilities, valued at USD $10 million, to communities across Belize. The exercise will start on March 25, 2017 and is scheduled to end the second week of June, 2017. BTH furthers the U.S. Government’s continued commitment to the Government and people of Belize in the field of humanitarian assistance. During the exercise, the BDF and many Belizean organizations will work side by side with U.S. military forces, learning from each other and serving the Belizean people. BTH will strengthen the partnership between the United States and Belize through collaboration on a variety of projects throughout Belize. The exercise will consist of five construction projects and three medical service events.

Marine protected areas suffer from lack of funds, staff
Countries across the world created some of the largest marine protected areas (MPAs) last year, some spanning hundreds of thousands of square miles. The recently created Papahnaumokukea Marine National Monument off Hawaii, for example, is currently the largest marine protected area in the world at 582,578 square miles. Unfortunately, many marine protected areas are yet to realize their full potential. This is mainly due to a lack of adequate funds and staffing capacity that are preventing large expanses of protected oceans from achieving their conservation goals, concludes a new study published in Nature.

The rise of the hipster bird-watcher
nd so, it’s official: bird-watching is the new must-have string to the millennial’s bow. Once regarded as the preserve of middle-aged men wearing complementary shades of olive and beige, a nationwide survey of Britain’s hobbies and interests has discovered that 32 per cent of men aged between 16 to 25 have been birding. That revelation follows a recent Condé Nast Traveller magazine profile which described bird-watching as “2017’s unlikeliest craze”. The article cited former Blur frontman Damon Albarn and the Elbow singer Guy Garvey as arch proponents of the new zeitgeist. Although the crueller among you may point out that they are in fact well on the way to being bona fide middle-aged men themselves. Leaving that aside, there is a also a growing number of young women getting into it, setting up online groups with names like Next Generation Birders - further proof that birding has entered the hipster pantheon. To paraphrase Gordon Gekko: grebes are good.

Videos

March 22, 2017

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Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, West Vision (Cayo) and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials

The San Pedro Sun

Sagebrush and Pit Stop Ministry fixes 48 bikes
Over 15 volunteers from Sagebrush Ministry got their hands dirty on Saturday, March 18th as they provided free bicycle services for the island community. From 8AM to 12PM, the volunteers repaired a total of 48 bicycles at the Sagebrush Belize Campus across from Paradise Theater. Under the shade of a tent, volunteers fixed rims and brakes, greased chains, tightened bolts, and replaced tubes, tires, chains, pedals, bearings, seats, rear hubs, sprockets and sponges. Sagebrush Pastor Rafael Torres stated that this service was influenced by Pit Stop Ministry, which is located at their main campus in Albuquerque, New Mexico, United Sates. “Pit Stop Ministry voluntarily repairs vehicles. Last year in September 2016, Todd Crampton from Pit Stop came and saw that bikes corrode easily here, and we decided that bike owners would benefit from the cause since many people use it as their primary means of transportation. Here at Sagebrush Church, we believe that every act of our Christian faith and love for others brings honor to God,” said Torres.

Strengthening ties between Cuba and San Pedro: Ambassador Lissette Perez pays official visit
Ambassador of Cuba, Lissette Perez paid an official visit to Mayor Daniel Guerrero, and the San Pedro Town Councilors on Saturday, March 18th. This visit comes after she made a courtesy call on February 24th. Since Belize and Cuba are members of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and Central American Integration System (SICA), Ambassador Perez expressed her interest in developing a partnership that would strengthen ties between Cuba and San Pedro Town. After the official meeting, Mayor Guerrero prioritized three key areas that both countries will focus on: climate change, sports, and culture.

Police say no foul play suspected in the death of Rickilee Mercer
A post mortem examination on the body of American National Rickilee Michelle Mercer has confirmed her cause of death as drowning. Mercer, a 29-year-old accountant from Spring Texas USA, was found dead in the leeward coast of Ambergris Caye on Wednesday, March 1st. She had been reported missing at sea late Tuesday evening, on February 28th, after reportedly falling off of a Jet Ski. According to police, due to the results of the post-mortem, no foul play was suspected in the cause of death and the case has since been closed.

Ambergris Today

More Belizeans Trained To Take Care Of The Elderly
In keeping with its mandate, thirty nine persons, who are employed or seeking employment as caregivers in homes of the elderly or in assisted living facilities, received a certificate after a five-week training on Basics of Caregiving during a brief ceremony that was held on Friday, 17th March, 2017 at the Belize Training and Employment Centre (BTEC) on the ITVET Compound, Freetown Road, Belize City. The training has three components: theory, first aid and CPR and two-week internship at the Sister Cecilia’s Home for the Elderly. The training seeks to certify persons who have a passion for working with older persons either new entrant into the field or persons who are working but have had no formal training.

Belize Listed 50th Happiest Country In The World - Not Bad!
It’s not about being the richest! Money does not bring happiness; and despite the not-so-good economic outlook and many social woes around the country, Belizeans are happy. Our country has been listed as the 50th Happiest Country in the World. NOT BAD! Considering all 196 of them. This is the latest report from World Happiness Report (WHR), produced by the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network. The aim of the report, said Mr Jeffrey Sachs, director of the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) and special adviser to the United Nations Secretary-General, is to provide another tool for governments, businesses and civil societies to help their countries find a better way to well-being.

Misc Belizean Sources

SBDC Workshop: QUICKBOOKS 101-ACCOUNTING PART 3
Presented by: Mr. Jorge Gentle, Business Advisor, SBDCBelize, Beltraide. Location: BTEC Training Room, ITVET Compound, Freetown Road, Belize City. Workshop Date: March 24th, 2017. Time: 8am to 3pm. Cost: $60.00. QuickBooks is an accounting software program created by Intuit for small businesses and self-employed professionals. It can be used for almost all financial business processes. You can use it for entering receipts, tracking expenses, invoicing, payment tracking, tax tracking, purchase orders, and even to prepare reports and statements regarding your finances. QuickBooks is your business' solution when it comes to bookkeeping and accounting. This course was created for anyone who wants to learn QuickBooks. Whether you signed up simply to learn QuickBooks or are a complete newbie to the software does not matter. We will teach you the software from beginning to end so that anyone, regardless of experience, learns all that they need to know to successfully use the program.

World Water Day Forum 2017
The Ministry of Natural Resources, in conjunction with various local water partners, is hosting a one-day forum to commemorate World Water Day, which is celebrated annually on March 22nd under the United Nations theme for 2017: “Wastewater”. The Official Opening Ceremony will be held on Wednesday, March 22, 2017 at 9:00 a.m. at the Ramada Princess Hotel King's Room in Belize City. The Opening Ceremony will be followed with an open exhibit and a Wastewater Forum, to be held concurrently. Official ceremonies and presentations commence at 9:00 a.m. and end at 4:00 p.m.

Princess Casino Free Zone does it again
This Friday, March 24th and Saturday, March 25th. It is another weekend of belly laughter and LOL (Laughing Out Loud) with popular Mexican imitator and comedian "CHRISTIAN BURGOS". Come out and enjoy. NO cover charge.It all begins at 10:00 P.M. Belize time or 11:00 P.M. Mexico time.

Centro Escolar Mexico Junior College's Annual Open Day
YOU ARE INVITED! It is that time of the year again. It is time for the Centro Escolar Mexico Junior College's (CEMJC) Annual Open Day. We plan to bring you lots of surprises and give you many prizes. It all happens on Thursday April 6th, 2017. Be a part of this grand event highlighting the best of CEMJC. It's all happening at the grounds in San Roman. Pin it down on your calendar and don't miss out. Please Share!

National Tapir Day Slogan Competition
The Belize Zoo is having a slogan competition. Fuego's 4th birthday will be celebrated on April 27th, and the winner along with their classmates, will be guests of honor. "In honor of National Tapir Day and “Fuego” the Tapir’s 4th birthday, The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center is inviting Upper Division Primary School students countrywide to enter a slogan competition to celebrate this wonderful occasion. The slogan should promote tapir conservation and awareness reflecting pride as our national animal and may highlight their habitat, their role in the environment, or the threats they face. Interested schools will receive an illustrated information package about Belize’s National Animal to assist in creating a great slogan. Entries should not be more than 12 words long.

Duck Race Kick Off
The Rotary Club of Belmopan had a kick off party for this year's Belize Duck Race, which will happen at the Hawkesworth Bridge on June 24th. "Over the weekend, The Rotary Club of Belmopan had the official Kick-off event of the Belize Rubber Duck Race held at Buca Services Station in Belmopan City. We would like to take this oppunity to thank our sponsors for this event on Saturday Quality Poultry Central TV & Internet Belize Buca Services Co. Ltd. and too the community of Belmopan for all the support. we also want to say a big thank you to our Rotaract Club for coming out and helping us with this event. Bruce Flowers Belmopan Rotaract Club Rotary Club of Belmopan."

Submissions for the 2017 Edition of BIFF are now open
Entry forms on website at www.belizefilmfestival.com. Deadline is April 30th, 2017.

Food Travel Specialists taste Belizean Cuisine
Food Travel Specialists from Travel Specialist from Travel and Food, Central America from Intrepid Group, Currie & Co., Travels Unlimited & Cheema’s NYC LLC here in Belize to experience Belize's cuisine from The Northern Islands to Southern Belize.

CARICOM week coming!
Sign-up to participate in the Art Competition today!

Erosion at Monkey River, photos

Splashers
Join us this Thursday at Crazy Canucks Beach Bar to paint "Relaxing Day"

CUBAN AMBASSADOR VISITS SAN PEDRO TOWN
During Her visit, Ambassador Perez met with Mayor Daniel Guerrero and other elected councilors in which areas of cooperation were discussed. Mayor Guerrero in speaking with the Cuban Ambassador discussed opportunities in the areas of Culture/Music/Art, Climate Change and Sports. As part of her visit, Ambassador Perez also met with several stakeholder groups including the Cuban Community on Ambergris Caye, Costa Maya Festival Committee Members, Lobster Fest Committee and the Cultural and Festival Committees of the San Pedro Town Council in which the subject of culture, music and art were discussed. The Ambassador ended her three-days visit with meeting with Sports/Softball coordinators of the San Pedro High School team along with the Councilor Hector "Tito" Alamilla. In the coming weeks, the council will be preparing a series of proposal that will be presented to the Cuban Embassy in an effort to utilized the available human resources to improve the three main areas of cooperation. For historical context, Belize has enjoyed a long standing good working relationship with the people and country of Cuba.

Beyond the Horizon: 2017-Belize
Beyond the Horizon: 2017-Belize (BTH), is a collaborative training exercise involving numerous U.S., Belizean, and international participants. BTH will provide free medical and dental services, as well as build medical and educational facilities, valued at USD $10 million, to communities across Belize. The exercise will start on March 25, 2017 and is scheduled to end the second week of June, 2017. The construction projects are as follows: • Expansion of the emergency room at the Western Regional Hospital in Belmopan. • Construction of a new medical waste incinerator housing at the Western Regional Hospital in Belmopan. • Construction of a new medical clinic building at the Ladyville Health Clinic. • Construction of a new medical clinic building at the Double Head Cabbage Clinic. • Construction of three new classrooms at St. Matthew’s Government School.

Reef Week continues in Sarteneja Village!
Wildtracks Update: Inspiring, and being inspired by youths in Sarteneja - towards improved marine stewardship! Reef week activities at the Manatee Rehabilitation Centre have continued with a visit from Standard 3 students of the Sarteneja Nazarene School, who learnt about the natural resources that manatees need, and the threats they face in the coastal waters of Belize.

Beautifully painted floats
Absolutely awesome. Great work Chuy Carillo

Meditation for Beginners
Saturday, April 8 at 10 AM - 1 PM, Core Fitness - Corozal 5th Avenue, 501 Corozal, Corozal, Belize. A workshop to help you initiate a daily meditation preactice with Jeremy A. Enriquez. Everyone is invited. Small Donation fee all proceeds go to charity. Brought to you by ROC (Rhythm of Change Belize). Vegetarian and Chicken lunch is included

Forest 4 Life at SHC
The Forest 4 Life celebration at Sacred Heart College to celebrate Forest Day was this morning. "Forest 4 Life Launch, huge success! Over 1200 students attended the event. 21 outstanding performances from schools from all over the country. What a FOREST DAY CELEBRATION! This event commemorates this year’s International Forest Day and is geared at listening to young voices of our children as they express why they believe forests are important to their lives and how they can help to protect forests for future generations. A highlight of the celebration will be the official launch of the Forest 4 Life campaign, an educational and recreational program for young people to learn by doing. At this event, Forest 4 Life youngsters will invite other students to join the movement, so that they too can engage in wise use and true conservation of our forests."

10th NRM & Research Symposium
The 10th annual Natural Resource Management and Research Symposium is next Thursday and Friday, at the UB campus. It's not too late to register. "Have you registered yet? Join us as we make the effort to share knowledge and forge partnership at our annual symposium. Register at www.msbcbelize.wordpress.com Submit a publication - published or unpublished, research paper, technical report or pamphlet etc. - for presentation at our publication spotlight. What's better than free publicity for your work?? Contact msbc.belize@gmail.com for more information."

Clean-up and beautification of the Why-Not Island
Awesome job to our sensational wavemakers in Dangriga. Jamall Swaso and the Dangriga basketball U-14 and U-18 teams carried out a clean-up and beautification of the Why-Not Island in Dangriga town. Way to go guys!

Annual Reef Week fair
Oceana and non-governmental organizations are participating in the annual Reef Week fair. This year the fair is being held in the beautiful coastal town of Punta Gorda in Southern Belize. These kinds of events provide the opportunity to engage Belizeans one on one about our advocacy goals and hear their concerns.

Channel 7

Dismembered Body Parts Found In Sack Near Iguana Creek
Exactly one week after finding out that their beloved daughter and sisters were brutally murdered, the family of 18 year old Kerona Ara is back in the news, but this time the tragedy did not happen to them. At about 1 this afternoon, a couple of Ara's brothers and their friends were hunting iguanas near the Iguana Creek Bridge. They came across a 'crocus' bag in the water that they wanted to use to hold an iguana that they had captured, but as they got closer they realized the bag was already holding the remains of a human body; the hands and feet to be exact. The boys then ran home to tell their mother, Sherlene Mai, about what they found, and the family quickly called the police. The boys were too shaken up to talk to us, but Mai recounted what they told her, and told us what she saw when she went down the river to see for herself... Shirlene Mai, Mother of Eyewitness

Police Tracked Down Elijah
Tonight, Elijah Burke remains in police custody pending charges for killing his own sister, 29 year old Juliane Burke. As we told you, it happened on Sunday night in front of her 6 year old son. She had just picked him up and was about to take him for a walk, when her brother appeared out of nowhere. He chopped her several times, chasing Juliane and her young son out on the street. She fell into the drain, and that is where he continued to savage her. He escaped before police could arrive. They rushed her to the hospital and she died 12 hours later. He had been on the run, but last night, at a little after 8:00, Northside police captured him on New Road. He is in custody pending charges for murder. But why would anyone attack their own sister in such a murderous rage? Her husband told us last night what he believes was the motive:...

Court Reverses Acquittal In Trial Without Jury, Sends Men Back To Jail
About an hour or so ago, the Court of Appeal reversed the first acquittal for murder for 3 men who stood trial without jury. Those 3 men, Orel Leslie, Tyrone Meighan, and Brandon Baptist, who had been acquitted of the murder 28 year-old James Noralez, are now back on the hook for that case. And, that's bad news for Leslie and Meighan who had been free for 1 year and 5 months after beating their case in October of 2015. In the trial which was presided over by Justice Troadio Gonzalez The DPP's office showed evidence against all 3 men that they, Aaron Paquil, and the deceased, James Noralez, were socializing in Orel Leslie's yard on November 26, 2012. They ran out of drinks, and the investigators believed - but couldn't prove in original trial - that this was the time when they lured him to the junction of Fabers Road, and George Price Highway, under the pretense of replenishing the stock.

Police Charge Minister’s Son
It took two months, but Police have charged 27 YEAR OLD Kenzel Hulse, the son of Agriculture minister Godwin Hulse. A one liner from the police a few minutes ago says that the businessman of Cohune Walk Belmopan has been charged for 1 count of harm committed upon Alberto Santos Lopez. Santos Lopez told Police that he was attacked by Kenzel Hulse who allegedly hit him in the face with a licensed firearm and assaulted him.

US Pres. Trump’s Alleged Russian Ties Extend All The Way To Belize?
Does US President Donald Trump's alleged Russia ties extend all the way to Belize? That's what this invoice says. International news reports say it's an off-the-books payment of 750 thousand dollars to former Trump campaign manager Davis Manafort in 2009. The transaction is disguised as a payment for 501 computers and it is billed to an offshore company called NEOCOM Services Limited registered at #1 Mapp Street. That's the headquarters for International Corporate Services which probably has thousands of IBC's registered at that same address. Doug Singh is the founder and managing partner of the operation and he says NEOCOM was struck from the register of offshore companies in 2010, and was involuntarily dissolved in 2014. The company last paid its 100 US dollar registration fee in 2009, after being incorporated in 2007.

Suspected Killer of Well Liked San Pedrano Wanted In Canada
It has been 11 months since San Pedro's Star Footballer Melvin Almendarez was murdered, and his suspected killer Canadian resident Jordan Bacchus, is still on the run. According to an online news article in the Toronto Sun, Bacchus is believed to be hiding out in Canada. Although Bacchus had surrendered all this travel documents during the court proceedings, he still found his way out of Belize. In the article it says that Toronto detectives have searched a number of home addresses linked to Bacchus but he wasn't at any of the locations. He is wanted in Toronto for a number of firearm related offenses. So, the hunt for Bacchus continues. Melvin Almendarez was killed in May 2016. Police believe he was run over by a golf cart before he was shot and killed. As we have reported last year, there is compelling evidence that ties Bacchus to the Almendarez's murder including bloody clothes at his residence, blood at the bottom of his golf cart, hair specimens from the victim on his belongings plus a positive test result for gun powder on his hands. But Bacchus simply got away after facing a minor drug charge.

A Day In The Life Of A Social Worker
Earlier this month we told you about the trauma training for social workers. Belizean American Psychotherapist Dr. Alex Depaz had organized a session on how important it is for social workers to confront their own trauma and heal before treating or helping others. Well, in order to understand a social workers' perspective, you have to understand the work they do and the role they play. Today on World Social Work Day, an open day was organized to spread awareness about social workers. Here is how the coordinators put it. Ganesha Brannon, Human Dev., Coord., - Child Protection Services: "It's, ahm looking at World Social Work Day and we are honoring our social workers for the hard work that they've been doing throughout this year and we are looking at it through the Ministry of Human Development and what are some of the services that our ministry offers to the general public."

Where Governments Get Insurance
We all know about the different insurance companies in Belize which provide coverage for life and property in the event of catastrophe, tragedy or natural disaster. But, where do Governments go to get insurance in the case of natural disaster? Well, those within the CARICOM turn to the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility, which was established in 2007. Belize along with 16 other countries - mostly from the Caribbean are clients of CCRIF (C-RIF), and last year Belize received a payout for the damage caused by Hurricane Earl. Presently the CCRIF is in Belize for their very first time, and it is a perfect opportunity for them to make a donation to purchase equipment for the Belize Met Office. That donation of $100,000 was handed over today to the Ministry of Finance, and they invited the press to observe it. 7News was there, and here's what those at the head table had to say:

Immigration Reports Fast Clearances Of Long Lines At Airport
Last night we told you about those extraordinarily long lines for inbound and outbound passenger at the Phillip Goldson International airport. We said it was because there aren't enough immigration agents to process all of them which is based on observation. Well, the Minister of State with responsibility for Immigration Beverly Williams and the Director of Immigration Diana Locke were observing on that day too. They spent the day at the airport assessing the immigration work situation, and the passenger flow. Today the Director of Immigration Diana Locke told us via email that it took 9 officers only 15 minutes to clear the Southwest flight from Houston. She points out that on Fridays they have 13 flights, Saturdays, there are 22, and on Sunday's there are 12. She notes that they are constant and close together.

Dear Teenage Girls…
Five days ago, 18 year old Kiah Pastor made a thoughtful post on facebook. Now, people post stuff on Facebook all day, but hers seemed especially well thought out and lucid. It speaks about the trend of girls on social media being exploited and preyed upon by older men seeking nude pictures. She says those same men had pressed her to do the same. It’s an unusually frank testimonial of a growing and disturbing trend, and she told us more about it today:..

Anglicans Hold Synod in Belize
Since last Week Friday, the Anglican Bishops of the Province of the West Indies have been in Belize for their Provincial Synod. It's a gathering of the 8 dioceses of the Anglican Church which makes up the West Indies Province. These Synods are held every 3 years, and their main purpose is to take a long hard look the management of the Church, and the success that they have had in all 8 territories. This year, the Anglican Diocese of Belize were the host for 3 meetings under the synods, namely, the House of Bishops, the Standing Committee and the Commission on Doctrine. This afternoon, we got a chance to meet the Arch-Bishop of the West Indies, after he was coming out of one of the meetings. He granted us an interview about the assessment of the Belize chapter of the Anglican Church, and here's what he had to say:

SIF Spends On Poverty
Last night we told you that the CDB had earmarked 40 million US dollars in low interest loans for 8 Caribbean countries. Well, 5 million US of that is for Belize. According to CEO in the Ministry of Economic Development Yvonne Hyde, the funds will be used over the next four years to significantly enhance SIF's ability to provide support to poor and vulnerable communities throughout the country.

Channel 5

Human Remains Found near Blackman Eddy
Tonight, villages in central Cayo District are on edge after another gruesome discovery was made around two this afternoon. A group of boys hunting iguana on the banks of the [...]

Police Catch Up with Accused Sister-Killer Elijah Burke
In the case of another gruesome murder, Elijah Burke, a Belize City resident, is in police hands awaiting arraignment in court for the hacking of his sister. It is not [...]

S and P Not Impressed by Superbond 3.0; Downgrades Belize to Default Status
In financial news….The government has been celebrating the restructuring of the Super Bond 3.0. But the credit rating agency, Standards and Poor’s Global ratings, is downgrading Belize’s long-term currency rating [...]

APAMO Continues Challenge to Government on Taxes
Government is proposing to increase departure tax for visitors to Belize to forty US dollars from thirty-five. It intends to raise as much as eleven million dollars from this tax [...]

Belize Dragged into Trump Aide’s Laundering Claims in U.S., Ukraine
The Washington Post and other U.S. news organizations have published a huge story which places a former campaign chairman for President Donald Trump to an offshore company in Belize which [...]

Immigration Tells Why Lines are Long at P.G.I.A.
In a classic case of “progress brings problems,” the Department of Immigration and Nationality has responded to concerns that its nineteen-member staff at the Philip Goldson International Airport in Ladyville [...]

Toledo Construction Worker Tells of Police Beating for Intervening in Arrest
Thirty-year-old Mario Makin of San Marcus, Toledo, says that four cops beat him and left him for dead in August 2016 and nothing has been done about it. The construction [...]

Court of Appeal Orders Retrial for 3 Accused of Murder
In October 2015, Judge Troadio “John” Gonzalez ruled that three Belize City men accused of the 2012 shooting murder of B.D.F. Soldier James Noralez had no case to answer.  The [...]

Police Finally Charge Kenzle Hulse in “Pistol-Whipping” Case
Two months after the incident was first reported to police, twenty-seven year old Kenzle Hulse has been charged with harm. It was announced late this evening that the businessman from [...]

Belize Gets Disaster Risk Donation
The Government of Belize has signed into a major insurance agreement with Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility, known as CCRIF. The signing took place today in Belize City and will [...]

SIF Gets Infusion of Cash for Poverty Alleviation
The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has approved ten million U.S. dollars to the Government in support of strengthening the Belize Social Investment Fund in order for it to continue providing [...]

Recognizing the Worth of Social Workers
Today, the Human Services Department services joined the rest of the world to observe World Social Work Day. Since 1983, the day has been celebrated around the world on March [...]

More on Budget from Economist Dr. Densil Williams
The 2017 budget which outlines government’s projected expenditure for the upcoming fiscal year will be debated in the House of Representatives at length on Thursday and Friday.  Ahead of that [...]

Sustaining Coastal Growth and the Environment
This week, the Coastal Zone Management Authority Institute is observing Coastal Awareness Week.  In its third year, the event draws attention to the importance of sustainable coastal management and at [...]

Kids Quizzed over Coastal Awareness
As part of the activities, today the Coastal Zone Authority held a trivia competition that saw the participation from schools across the city. The purpose is to raise awareness and [...]

CTV3

New NTUCB Leader Sets The Tone
The National Trade Union Congress of Belize held elections over the weekend to re-elect a new executive. If you would recall, back in December the Union body held elections and returned Marvin Mora to his position of National President. But because of the wording of the Congress’ constitution which prohibits persons who have served two consecutive terms in the Union from running again, Mora’s win was overturned. Since then, Jacqueline Willoughby has acted as President. In the new elections, Willoughby offered herself for the Union leadership but it was not to be. She was defeated by newcomer to Unionism, Floyd Neal, who got 45 votes to Willoughby’s 21. A third contender, Hubert Enriquez, eventually withdrew his candidacy.

Concepcion Village Council Member Still Waiting To Be Swore In
As part of the village council elections held in July 2016, a new village council was elected in Concepcion Village in the Corozal District. While the PUP won four seats, the UDP won the Chairman seat and two Council member seats. Normally, following the elections officials from the Ministry of Local Government visits each community to swear in the new council members which formalises their authority to act on behalf of the community. Well, it seems the Ministry of Local Government has forgotten Concepcion Village since nearly nine months later, no official ceremony has been held. Elected Councillor Rodolfo Lainez told us why it is becoming a problem for them.

ITVET Prepares For Expo And Trade Fair
Final preparations for the annual Orange Walk Institute for Technical and Vocational Education and Training Expo and Trade Fair are in full swing as we speak. The Expo, which is one of the institution’s leading marketing events, will take place tomorrow morning at the school’s campus. The aim of the activity is to recognize the quality of work, skills and talents imprinted in each student and at the same time, providing a gateway for new matriculation of students.

Beyond The Horizon 2017 Comes To Belize
The U.S. Army South, in partnership with the Belize Defense Force (BDF), and the Ministries of Defense, Health, and Education today announced the formation of a collaborative training exercise involving numerous U.S., Belizean, and international participants under the name “Beyond the Horizon 2017”. The BTH will provide free medical and dental services, as well as build medical and educational facilities throughout Belize, all valued at $10 million US dollars. The exercise is set to start on Saturday March 25th, 2017 and is scheduled to end the second week of June, 2017. In a release issued today by the US embassy in Belize it highlights that the BTH furthers the U.S. Government’s continued commitment to the Government and people of Belize in the field of humanitarian assistance.

Standard & Poor Lowers Belize's Long Term Foreign Currency
Standards and Poor Global Ratings has lowered its long-term foreign currency rating on Belize to selective default ('SD') from 'CC'. At the same time, the organization removed the rating from CreditWatch with negative implications, from where Belize was placed on Feb 21st, 2017. In addition, S and P lowered the short-term foreign currency rating to 'D' from 'C'. S and P also affirmed Belize’s 'CC' long-term local currency rating and the 'C' short-term local currency rating and revised the outlook on the long-term local currency rating to stable from negative. These rating actions follow Belize's announcement on March 15, 2017, that holders of more than 87% of the U.S. dollar bonds due in 2038 have consented to amendments to the terms of the bonds, which will alter the interest rate and amortization schedule.

Opposition Leader Commits to Proper Government Audits
Opposition Leader Hon. John Briceno has expressed grave concern that the figures presented by Prime Minister Dean Barrow in his forecasts of the upcoming fiscal year are not matching up. Prime Minister Barrow says the economy will grow with a primary surplus of 3.5% but aside from saying that new tax measures will provide $88 million dollars to Government coffers, he has not detailed how this will be achieved. A major challenge to keeping the PM honest is the fact that the data presented in his budget hasn’t been audited by the Auditor General’s office. Briceno said when the PUP gets into Government; every Ministry will have to keep proper financial records.

Police Finally Make Move On Victor Cituk's Case
You might remember aggrieved Corozal resident, Victor Cituk. The 36 year old resident of Corozal Town has been on our newscast twice, accusing the Police Department of unfair treatment. Cituk was severely injured when he was knocked down by the driver of an SUV on January 1st. He reported the matter to the authorities, but at least two months passed and no charges had been laid on the driver of the vehicle. Cituk claimed the Police were covering up and so he took his plight to higher authorities including the Police’s internal affairs and the Ombudsman’s office.

Identitiy Of Human Skull found At Dump Site Remains Unknown
Police investigations are tonight still ongoing in the gruesome discovery of the charred remains of a human skull. The discovery was made over the weekend in the dump site situated at the Chan Pine Ridge road. Though Police have been minimal in the information provided to the media on the case, we have been able to confirm that DNA testing has been conducted on the partial remains but police have not been able to confirm an identity.

Amandala

“Red Top” did in “El Tigre”
A man known as “El Tigre,” 62, reportedly originally from Corozal Town, a lover of Red Top rum who used to hang out at the Commercial Center on Regent Street with the homeless, and who, despite suffering with illness, refused to leave his beloved rum to go and seek medical treatment, died this evening on the sidewalk near his favorite spot under the Commercial Center. El Tigre’s body has since been taken to the morgue, where it will undergo an autopsy to certify the cause of his death. Police have ruled out foul play. El Tigre’s friends, frustrated with his stubborn refusal to get medical assistance, told us that since last Wednesday, they had been telling him to go to the doctor, and they have been telling him to go every day, but El Tigre refused. He would drink and not bother to eat.

Canadian man, wanted for murder in Belize, also wanted in Canada
Canadian national Jordan Bacchus, 27, has been wanted in Belize for murder since last year. However, before Belizean police officers could nab him, he made a clean getaway to Canada. In Canada, Bacchus has again found himself on the wrong side of the law and is being sought in connection with multiple firearm-related offences. According to the Toronto Police Service, on February 22, they executed search warrants at addresses in Toronto for him, but he could not be located at the time the warrants were executed.

Brother chops sister to death
Julianne Burke, 28, had just finished work at Aisha’s Restaurant on Dunn Street at about 8 o’clock Sunday night and was going with her 6-year-old son to her room, which is located in the same yard behind the restaurant, when her brother, who had lay-waited her, came out of the darkness and attacked her with a machete. Burke’s little son ran back to her employer, shouting that her uncle was killing her mommy. Julianne managed to escape from her homicidal brother and ran out of the yard to the front of the restaurant to get away from him, but he chased her and tripped her on the road, and chopped her mercilessly.

Third Belizean killed in Melchor
In less than two weeks, another Belizean has been murdered in Melchor. On Friday at approximately 9 p.m., San Jose Succotz resident and tour operator, Carlos “Botty” Manzanero, was seated with his wife at a bar known as Champon at the western border when a gunman accosted him. Manzanero was reportedly shot once in the right knee, once in the left hand and five times in the chest. He died seated in his chair. His attacker had been at the same establishment before the incident, but fled after the shooting. According to eyewitness accounts, there was no prior confrontation between the men.

Hipolito Mai drowns in Biscayne pond
Hipolito Mai, 22, of Old Well Road, Ladyville, drowned when he jumped into a pond in Biscayne at about 5:30 this evening. The body was recovered and taken to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, where it awaits an autopsy to certify the cause of death. Police said that no foul play is suspected and have described the incident as death by drowning. Reports to us are that at about 5:30 this evening Mai and a friend went to swim in the pond. The friend jumped in, but was not aware that Mai had followed him into the pond. When the friend came out of the water, Mai was nowhere to be found. Mai’s body was later found and Compression Press Resuscitation (CPR) was performed on him, but the effort was in vain.

KREM Music Awards 2017 – the best of the best honored
The annual KREM Music Awards, our local version of the Grammy Awards, was the occasion for a red-carpet rollout at the Bliss Institute on Saturday night. Artists from every crevice emerged from their respective corner of the country to see who would be awarded for the 15 categories in which nominations had been made. The title of top female artist of the year was awarded to the self-proclaimed Soca Queen, Ernestine Carballo, who told our newspaper that, “As a female in this male-dominated business, you got to be self- motivated, believing in yourself that you can achieve anything in life.” “Not everyone would want to acknowledge or treat you with the same level of respect, you have to demand it,” she said.

Martinez’ buzzer-beater against Wagiya keeps FC Belize in striking distance of PLB playoffs
Week 9 is completed in the Premier League of Belize (PLB) 2016-2017 Closing Season, and we are in the back stretch of what looks to be another hectic run to the top-4 playoffs, as FC Belize made a significant move at the last minute yesterday, gaining a desperately needed victory over visiting Wagiya on a last-minute injury-time goal by Mexican striker Hector Martinez. There are now 6 teams in contention for the 4 playoff spots. Defending champion and league-leading Belmopan Bandits are pretty much in the “driver’s seat,” which leaves 5 teams – Belize Defence Force FC, Verdes FC, Police United FC, FC Belize and Placencia Assassins FC – to battle for the 3 remaining berths in the playoffs. There is no stopping Opening Season champion Belmopan Bandits from “flying the iron bird” to CONCACAF Champions League First Round this year; but a championship is still a championship, and the home stretch run will likely be flavored with some surprises from fast improving Wagiya and Freedom Fighters, who are building with their sights on next season. (See updated standings right.)

FFB launches National Amateur Women’s League
This past weekend, the Football Federation of Belize (FFB) kicked off its National Amateur Women’s League football tournament with Week 1 games being played at 4 different venues across the country. According to release late last week from the FFB, “The league will be sectioned in two zones, northern and southern zones, with four teams per zone.” “The teams will be competing in their respective zones in the first round,” after which the top 2 teams from each zone will go on to the home-and-away semifinals series, the winners of which clash in the home-and-away championship series.

Editorial: Cops, crime, and the community
In Belize City, the nation’s population center, the Police Department is clearly overwhelmed by the violent and often sensational crimes which occur so frequently as to be practically dizzying. Violent crime in Belize City has been the order of the day for a quarter century and more. In fact, it was almost exactly a quarter century ago that Itza Brown, considered the Majestic Alley Crips leader, was murdered in the horse stables at the old National Stadium, whereupon there was retaliation thousands of miles away in Brooklyn, New York against a major Bloods figure who was visiting from Belize: the streets will never forget the early months of 1992. Since 1992, the United Democratic Party (UDP) has been in power for 14 years, and the People’s United Party (PUP) has been in power for 11 years. There is no real difference in Belize City’s violent crime statistics when the UDP is in power compared to when the PUP is in power. But the Opposition party, whichever it happens to be at any given time, is always tempted to blame the ruling party, whichever it is, for the rate of violent crime, because these incidents are often headline news in Belize’s media.

US attorney writes from Washington
Dear Editor, The Honourable Foreign Minister was quoted in the media as saying this past week that Belize lacked “internationally recognized borders,” and that the Belizean people therefore are like “squatters”. If Mr. Elrington was quoted correctly, then I certainly have to understand him to have been speaking metaphorically. The fact that Guatemala refuses to recognize Belize’s established borders does not render them any the less valid at law. The international community, speaking through the United Nations, recognized both the Sarstoon, and also the parallel of longitude passing north to south through Garbutt’s Falls, as Belize’s borders with Guatemala. The U.N. General Assembly passed successive annual resolutions in the years prior to independence calling for Belizean independence within just these borders.

PART 2: TRUTH & FALLACIES ABOUT OBESITY … WEIGHT LOSS MEDICATIONS
Hello everyone. Two weeks ago, we spoke about some dynamics of obesity and managing our weight, compatible with our body type. To recap, in that discussion, we spoke about some of the causes of obesity and weight gain. We spoke about the interaction between one’s culture, environment, exercise habits, and eating styles. We also addressed one’s genetic, biochemical and physiological “set point,” that may contribute to weight management. Finally, we spoke briefly about some cases of obesity that are due to an imbalance of the hormone, insulin. This bring us up to date and since this is a large and protracted topic, today in Part 2 as a follow-up on this topic, we will not overburden ourselves with details, but rather, we will hit some of the essential points, at a personal level, where we can all easily relate to them in our daily lives. So, let’s get started.

Diplomatic relations between Belize and Guatemala not normalized
Almost a year ago, Guatemala’s Ambassador to Belize, Manuel Estuardo Roldan Barillas, was called back to Guatemala for consultations, and although a diplomatic note was sent out roughly 2 weeks ago announcing his resumption of duties in Belize, Belize Foreign Minister Wilfred “Sedi” Elrington told the media today that the Ambassador is in Guatemala—not Belize. Elrington said repeatedly that Ambassador Roldan, who was visible last week in meetings held in Guatemala with Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), Luis Almagro, is not back in Belize. “We would wish for him to come back. We are hoping that he’s going come back, but he is not in the country,” Elrington stressed.

Breaking Belize News

Godwin Hulse son charged for pistol whipping disgruntled customer
Kenzel Hulse, 27, the son of Minister Godwin Hulse has been charged by police for pistol whipping a man at his gas station in Belmopan. According to reports, he was charged yesterday afternoon for 1 count of harm committed upon Alberto Lopez. The incident […]

Superbond renegotiations prompts S&P downgrade
Standards and Poor’s Global ratings, in light of Belize’s restructuring of the 2034 US dollar Bonds, made changes to Belize’s credit rating, including downgrading Belize’s long-term currency rating from CC to SD. S&P explained that it downgraded the raring from CC (Eminent default with […]

Old San Ignacio hospital to be new location for twin towns administration building
BBN was informed today by Earl Trapp, the Mayor of the twin towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena in the Cayo District that the old San Ignacio Hospital will be the new location for the council’s administration building. A section of the building […]

OAS to investigate murder of Special Constable Danny Conorquie
DANNY In April of last year, a Guatemalan minor was shot and killed in the Cebada area of the Chiquibul forest. The gunfire exchange occurred when Belize defense Force (BDF) soldiers along with Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD) personnel encountered the minor and […]

Elrington calls for strengthening of police-media relations
The media boycott of the police department remains in effect. According to media, the police refuses to share needed information so as to keep the public informed. Home Affairs Minister, Wilfred Elrington, however, told the media that when he was handed the police portfolio, […]

Man detained for chopping his sister to death
Sometime before 9 o’clock last night, police in Belize City arrested Elijah Burke on New Road. Burke had been wanted in connection with the vicious chopping of his sister on Wednesday night. His sister, Juliane Burke, 29, was chopped multiple times by her brother […]

Mutilated body found near Iguana Creek Bridge, Cayo District
A mutilated body was found near Iguana Creek Bridge in the Cayo District this afternoon.Police are currently on the scene. According to reports, it appears to be the body of a Hispanic man. Coincidentally, the body was found by a group of men including the […]

Brigadier General David Jones inducted into U.S. Army Command & General Staff College International Hall of Fame
Brigadier General (BG) David N. Jones, was inducted into the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College (CGSC) International Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony took place last Thursday at the Lewis and Clark Center in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, USA where Jones studied in 2007.

Sandhill man missing at sea
Our newsroom has received reports that a man is missing. He has been identified as Barry Rosales also known as Jaxey of a Sand Hill Village address. According to reports, he is missing at sea. His family reportedly received a call at around 3 am yesterday confirming that his bag was found. However, he was not found with it.

GOB will not protest fatal shooting of Belizean in Guatemala
Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington, told the media this week that the Government of Belize will not be issuing any protest notes to Guatemala, after the fatal shooting of Belizean Amadeos Teck in Melchor De Mencos tlast weekend. Ellington explained that since the issue was a crime committed between civilians, there is no need for GOB to send an official protest note to the Government of Guatemala. He said that killings become a diplomatic issue when members of a country’s armed forces are party to such killings.

Minor stabbed during bar fight in Caye Caulker
According to police reports, last night around 7:15, acting upon information received of a stabbing incident, police visited a clinic on Pasero Street in Caye Caulker. Police observed a 17-year-old male of a Belize City address suffering from a stab wound to the left shoulder, right hand and abrasions to the head and right hand.

Over 900 students celebrate Forest Day today
Today is International Forest Day 2017. The theme this year is: “Forest 4 life”. Over 900 children and youths are expected to gather at the Sacred Heart Auditorium to celebrate the importance of forests to their lives. The event is being hosted by the Forestry Department. These students will join forest conservation partners in the Forest for Life celebrations at the Sacred Heart Junior College Auditorium, San Ignacio Town.

Belize celebrates World Water Day with forum
World Water Day is celebrated annually on March 22nd and this year the United Nations is celebrating the day with the theme: “Wastewater”. The Ministry of Natural Resources, in conjunction with various local water partners, is hosting a one-day forum to commemorate World Water Day. The Official Opening Ceremony will be held on tomorrow at 9:00 a.m. at the Ramada Princess Hotel King’s Room in Belize City. T

New houses handed over to fire victims
Earlier today, National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) Minister Edmond Castro was in the Albert Division of Belize City along with the constituency’s Area Representative, Tracy Taegar-Panton handing over houses to victims of natural disaster. The houses were handed over in the Conch Shell Bay area.

Belize City cops seize drugs and ammunition
A further search was conducted and police also discovered four more black plastic bags containing cannabis and four .9mm rounds: two Luger brand, one Aguila brand, and one S&B brand.

GOB to receive US $10 million to support poor and vulnerable communities
The Board of Directors of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has approved US $10 million to the Government of Belize in support of strengthening the Belize Social Investment Fund (SIF) in its continued delivery of providing services to poor and vulnerable communities across Belize. Belize SIF is an implementing agency of the government addressing the basic needs of Belizeans as enshrined in the government’s policy to alleviate poverty reduction in both urban and rural communities.

Troubled times ahead for Belize’s sugar industry as EU lifts quotas for beet sugar
The sugar industry in Belize and the greater Caribbean, may face massive declines in revenue as the European Union, the largest importer of Caribbean sugar, prepares to change its sugar regime. In October this year, the EU will lift the limitations it had imposed on beet sugar production, which will offer European consumers a more local and cheaper alternative than importing cane sugar from its former African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) colonies like Belize.

Ambassador Nestor Mendez receives medal of honor for merit
Belizean Ambassador Nestor Mendez was awarded a Medal of Honor for Merit during a ceremony last week Thursday in Panama City, Panama. The event was attended by diplomats, security experts, and representatives from international and regional organizations. H.E. Nestor Mendez is also the Assistant Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS) and the award was presented by the Sociedad de Estudios Internacionales (SEI) of Panama “in recognition of his work to promote democracy, strengthening human rights, and fostering peace and security and integral development.”

Blogs

Retire Close to Home in Low-Cost Central America Fast Facts
Central America is a popular choice for retirement for many North Americans. This is not surprising when you consider the great qualities the region has to offer. First off there are the practical aspects, such as its proximity to North America, and its similar range of time zones. Nowhere else in the world can North American expats enjoy their retirement overseas and still have the option of visiting their families within the space of two hours. This close proximity works both ways too, meaning that expats in Central America are regularly entertaining guests from back home. With a population of 330,000, English-speaking Belize offers plenty of empty, wide-open spaces. Located below Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula, this is picture-postcard Caribbean. It’s a country of Maya temples, seaside condos, jungle lodges, and colonial mansions. Belize offers economic stability, ease of living, and a cost of living that is good value when you compare it with that of other Caribbean retreats. According to International Living Belize Correspondent, Ann Kuffner, depending on which part of Belize you choose to live, a monthly budget for a couple can be anywhere between $1,200 to $3,000.

Lobsterfest in Belize
Is it wrong to plan an entire vacation around one’s taste buds? Not if you crave an obscene amount of lobster! This delicacy is the superstar of Belize’s culinary scene beginning in mid-June, and since you can fly to Belize in just a few hours, envision yourself eating breakfast at home and feasting on lobster for lunch. No need to bring a bib if you make Lobsterfest your 2017 goal. Just pack wash and wear clothes and your favorite flip-flops and you’ll fit right in! This annual seafood bacchanal is no ordinary celebration. Lobsterfest is an official summer kickoff event coinciding with the first lobster harvests that continue through February 15th. The wildly popular nationwide event turns Belize into one big homage to crustaceans celebrated in three areas: Caye Caulker, San Pedro and Placencia. Bring your appetite. Is it possible to grow weary of eating this delicacy? No way.

Chocolate Festival of Belize
Wanting to showcase the superior quality of their local cacao, various chocolate manufacturers and cacao farmers in the Toledo District of Belize gathered together in 2007 to form the first Chocolate Festival. Now in its tenth year, the Chocolate Festival has blossomed into a three-day event featuring local foods, wines, trips to cacao farms and a musical competition celebrating the area’s indigenous heritage. Cacao (the key ingredient in chocolate) is indigenous to the Americas, and Belize’s Toledo District is world-renowned for having some of the finest quality cacao anywhere. Beside traditional chocolate desserts, the festival features everything from chocolate beer to chocolate soap. The festival also coincides with a large street fair with plenty of music, cultural displays, and exhibitions to entertain the whole family. The festival is held in the town of Punta Gorda located in Belize’s southernmost District of Toledo. In 2017, the Chocolate Festival will be held between Friday, May 19, and Sunday, May 21 in the town of Punta Gorda in Toledo District.

You better Belize it; Visiting Belize for easter
We take this greatest pleasure in inviting you to come visit Belize. Our country has the friendliest friends and visitors with a warmth that results both from an instinctive sense of hospitality and from various cultures that have made Belize unique. In Belize, you can experience the warm Caribbean teeming weather with the wonders of the deep, and lush, exciting interior where you can walk the pathways of our rain forest and discover the exotic and breath-taking wildlife that awaits you. Crawfish, the feeding time on the house reef of Caye Caulker is an impressive sea game and a must for anybody who can take a boat on the small island off the coast of Belize. Much more than to snorkel around the whole day, there is a lot to do here. And that's exactly how it should be. Most backpackers have visited the Mayan sites and colonial towns of Belize, which are on their way to the jungles of Guatemala and to more ruins. On Caye Caulker, they press the break button for a few days. From the hundreds of islets along the world's second largest barrier, Caye Caulker, Placenia, Corozal and San Pedro is the easiest to reach and most convenient. Crawfish also for backpackers A lot has changed in the past five years, Everywhere is now being built.

Why Choose Belize as a destination for vacationing
Living in harsh winter conditions for five months of every year, it is understandable to want to escape the cold for a few weeks and get some serious vitamin D. With 5-star resorts, long beaches, cabanas, and cocktails on demand, the east coast of Mexico is often the destination of choice for many. But if you’re seeking an adventure that will break up your trip to Mexico, Belize is only a six-hour road trip directly south of Cancun. If it’s still the relaxed vibes and stress-free ambience you are looking for, then Caye Caulker is the destination for you. Caye Caulker, located only 21 miles northeast of Belize City, is surprisingly only four miles in length. But don’t let the size of this tiny island reflect the people and things to do on it. Caye Caulker is predominantly a fishing community, although over time as travellers have spread the good word to fellow nomads, this tiny island now relies profoundly on tourism.

Let's protect our Barrier Reef in Belize by Oilspilling
Coral reefs, some of the Earth’s most remarkable natural structures, are more than just beautiful to admire. Besides fostering a diverse marine environment, coral reefs are also vital to the health of the oceans. In total, coral reefs cover about 0.1 percent of the ocean’s but they nurture 25 percent of the world’s marine species. Coral reefs are the ocean’s lifelines and when they disappear, it can create an ecologically devastating domino effect. Sadly, the world’s corals are rapidly disappearing due to warming ocean temperatures, human industry, overfishing, and ocean acidification. For example, over the past thirty years, the Great Barrier Reef has lost approximately 50 percent of its coral. The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, which was placed on the UNESCO List of World Heritage Sites in Danger in 2009, is facing a similarly dismal future. The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System is home to an amazing 1,400 different species, including 500 types of fish and 100 corals. This reef hosts the world’s largest population of threatened Indian manatees, as well as endangered sharks and marine turtles; however, in recent years, the reef’s ecosystems have been damaged by coastal construction, and oil concessions continue to pose a threat.

Marine Biology class travels to Belize over Spring Break
A Saint Mary’s marine biology class took in-depth learning to a whole new meaning. The class spent spring break in Belize at South Water Caye applying what it learned in the classroom life to the natural world. Saint Mary’s assistant biology professor Laura Kloepper said marine biology had not been taught in years, but the department now plans on regularly running the class. “For the past few years no one has been teaching that class,” Kloepper said. “So we’ve resurrected the marine biology class and we plan on teaching this every two years. This trip to Belize was part of the lab component for our marine biology class that we offer here for majors.” Kloepper said studying Belize was an obvious choice because of its diverse environment. She said it provided a unique opportunity to learn more about a field that is not as prominent in a landlocked state like Indiana. “If you’re teaching marine biology in Indiana doing a lab is a little difficult. So we decided to make our lab one big field trip to Belize where it is a very diverse coral reef ecosystem that’s pretty easy to get to,” Kloepper said. “It’s also one of the few coral reefs that is still fairly unaffected by coral bleaching.”

International Sources

New documents show Trump aide laundered payments from party with Moscow ties, lawmaker alleges
Did former Trump campaign manager launder Ukrainian payments through Belize, as alleged by Ukrainian lawmaker? - A Ukrainian lawmaker released new financial documents Tuesday allegedly showing that a former campaign chairman for President Trump laundered payments from the party of a disgraced ex-leader of Ukraine using offshore accounts in Belize and Kyrgyzstan.
A Ukrainian lawmaker released new financial documents Tuesday allegedly showing that a former campaign chairman for President Trump laundered payments from the party of a disgraced ex-leader of Ukraine using offshore accounts in Belize and Kyrgyzstan. The new documents, if legitimate, stem from business ties between the Trump aide, Paul Manafort, and the party of former Ukrainian president Viktor Yanukovych, who enjoyed Moscow’s backing while he was in power. He has been in hiding in Russia since being overthrown by pro-Western protesters in 2014, and is wanted in Ukraine on corruption charges.

'Camp Macaw'
Check out 'Camp Macaw' an article featuring the efforts on the ground to protect Scarlet Macaws in Belize. Special thanks to National Audubon Society and Audubon Magazine! Roni Martinez Friends for Conservation and Development - FCD Belize

Dallas DJ Starts Four-Day Techno Fest in Belize to Help Charity
Veteran Dallas DJ and promoter Willie Trimmer has served as an ambassador for the Dallas house and techno scenes for nearly two decades. Through his promotion company 12InchPimps, he’s organized parties, managed DJs and held down several residencies himself. Now he’s leveraging his experience and connections to start the four-day Festival of the Sun & Moon in San Pedro, Belize. Andy Caldwell, DJ Dan and Hatiras will headline the 20-artist lineup at the inaugural festival, taking place April 6-9. The U.S., Canada, England, Germany and host country Belize will all be represented, and Texas alone will have 6 artists on the lineup: Andy Austin, Girlbot, Nate Nelson, Stetra, DJ Dilly and Trimmer — all from Dallas — plus Zekk from El Paso. A portion of the proceeds from Sun & Moon will benefit two nonprofits: the San Pedro Aids Commission and Raise Me Up. The latter is run by a former Dallasite and works to help the poor in San Pedro; the group's latest project is building a shelter for women and children.

Manafort cash trasferred to US from Belize, says Ukraine lawmaker
Ukrainian Lawmaker Serhiy Leshchenko said the amount and date of the payment _ October 14, 2009 _ matches one of the entries on the so-called Black Ledges, the handwritten accounting books of the Party of Regions, where Paul Manafort's name stood next to several entries as receiving the party's funds. Leshchenko argued that the documents found in Manafort's office and the invoice in particular show the mechanics of money-laundering that should be investigated by U.S. authorities. "Paul Manafort is an American citizen. NABU [Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau] has enough to do with corrupt Ukrainian officials. I think they can be party to a bigger international investigation,'' he said. "First of all, it's up to American officials to investigate, because we're talking about American citizens. Money (was) transferred to an account in the United States from Belize opened with an account in Kyrgyzstan, so Ukraine is almost not involved in this.''

Parranda Festival in Belize Lights up Easter Week
Hamanasi Adventure and Dive Resort, a multi-award-winning boutique eco-resort invite guests to Hopkins, Belize for the 4th annual Belize Parranda Festival – Belize’ premiere indigenous folk art festival. Scheduled for April 15, the festival will feature international music, art exhibitions, and local food. This event is sponsored by the Belize Heart and Soul Foundation, Hamanasi Resort and the Parranda Fest Committee. Activities will get underway at 10 AM at the Palmento Grove Cultural and Fishing Lodge on Holy Saturday, April 15. Hopkins International Parranda Fest 2017 Will provide the best of Belizean Cultural & Musical Entertainment for the Easter Weekend. It all starts off with a cassava baking exhibit and a cultural art & music exhibition that goes through at 6:00 with live entertainment. Night time on stage will be a variety of local bands with featuring renowned Belizean Garifuna artist Aziatic. He has been a dynamic star in Punta Rock and Parranda music for 20+ years.

ETBU students spend spring break on mission
East Texas Baptist University students spent spring break demonstrating the love of Christ by serving people in the jungles of Belize, in a storm-damaged area of South Louisiana and on the beaches of South Padre Island. “We are grateful to have committed Christian servant leaders in our East Texas Baptist students, who are willing to sacrifice their vacation time for the blessing of others,” President Blair Blackburn said. Lisa Seeley, director of global education and the ETBU Great Commission Center, led 10 students to recover water wells and share the gospel of Jesus in Belize. The team worked in Otoxha, a remote jungle village without electricity or running water. “Seeing how different our cultures are was eye-opening,” sophomore Abbey Sturdivant said. “Even though we are so different, we are all equal in the eyes of God.”

Five Caribbean Nations Named Major Illicit Drug Transit Countries
A list of five Caribbean nations has been sent to the U.S. Congress by Donald Trump with the label: “major illicit drug producing and/or drug-transit countries.” That’s according to the latest International Narcotics Control Strategy Report on Drug and Chemical Control, released recently by the U.S. State Department. Belize was also listed as a major transit country for illegal drugs destined for the United States from source countries in South America, due to its position along the Central American corridor. The State Department also says the country’s remote jungles provide a hospitable environment for the growing and transferring of cannabis and urged the government in Belize to strengthen its public security and law enforcement institutions through more effective anti-corruption legislation, comprehensive background checks and vetting of new and existing personnel, better training, and continuing education programs.

Caribbean Development Bank Seeks to Reduce Poverty In 8 Countries with $40M Funding
The Caribbean Development Bank has announced $40 million in funding for poverty reduction in eight countries in the Caribbean region, through the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF). The resources will support improved access to quality education, water and sanitation, basic community access and drainage, and livelihoods enhancement and human resource development services in low-income and vulnerable communities under the ninth phase of BNTF (BNTF 9). Countries that will benefit are Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Suriname.

Caye Caulker foto's & tips: Shark alley
In wezen kun je Shark Alley, voor de kust van Belize, ook als een verborgen water zien. Weliswaar niet echt buiten de gebaande paden, want het kan er druk zijn met toeristen. Maar wel verborgen in de zin van dat je het zonder gids niet gemakkelijk zult vinden. Het is namelijk een gedeelte in de Caribische zee. Bijzonder aan deze plek is, dat het er stikt van de pijlstaartroggen en rif- en zusterhaaien. Ze doen over het algemeen geen vlieg kwaad, en vandaar is het een populaire plek om er te snorkelen. Dat het echter ook wel eens fout kan gaan, heb ik gisteren beschreven in de blog "Trouble in paradise"

SPMAGTF-SC 17 begins pre-deployment training at Camp Lejeune
Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Southern Command 17 have begun training aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 8, 2017, to prepare for their upcoming deployment to Central America. The task force, comprised of approximately 300 Marines from both active and reserve components, will deploy to Belize, El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras this summer to build upon security cooperation efforts and established relationships in the region. "The mission has to do with helping our allies and partners in Central America keep the peace within their borders,” said Col. Michael V. Samarov, commander of SPMAGTF-SC 17. To accomplish the mission, the Marines will participate in shoulder-to-shoulder training with partner militaries, and conduct infrastructure improvement projects.

Videos

March 21, 2017

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Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, West Vision (Cayo) and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials

The San Pedro Sun

Thirty Nine Persons now Equipped to Take Care of the Elderly
he Belize Training and Employment Centre (BTEC), a unit of BELTRAIDE, is Belize’s leading centre for industry specific workforce development, providing effective, demand driven, user-friendly and value based programs that will develop, deliver and sustain a quality work force. Its’ mission is to develop a cadre of well-trained, marketable and self-sufficient individuals able to confidently compete in the marketplace. In keeping with its mandate, thirty nine persons, who are employed or seeking employment as caregivers in homes of the elderly or in assisted living facilities, received certificates at the conclusion of a five-week training on Basics of Caregiving during a brief ceremony was held on Friday, 17th March 2017 at 11:00 am at the Belize Training and Employment Centre (BTEC) on the ITVET Compound, Freetown Road, Belize City.

Back to back Championship: SPHS Male Softball Team wins nationals!
The San Pedro High School (SPHS) Male Softball Team returned home champions after winning the National Softball Tournament held over the weekend in Belize City. The tournament took place on Friday, March 17th and Saturday March 18th, and saw the island boys representing the north of the country, having won the Northern Regional competition earlier this month. The team won its qualifying game on Friday, March 17th, which allotted them to a spot in the championship game the following day. With spirits high, on Saturday afternoon, the island boys managed to win and bring home the coveted title, and were named the 2017 National Softball Male Champions.

GEM survey reveals major improvements in Belize’s entrepreneurial activity
The Ministry of Economic Development, Petroleum, Investment, Trade & Commerce, through BELTRAIDE, is pleased to announce that a recent survey by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) has revealed major improvements in Belize’s overall national entrepreneurial activity. The survey, which was conducted last year among 2,318 Belizeans (between the ages of 18 to 65, including males and females) countrywide over a one month period, rated Belize’s overall national entrepreneurial activity from a mere 7.1% in 2014 to a whopping 28.8%, in 2016, which placed Belize second behind Ecuador’s 31% for the Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) Region, and third globally.

Ambergris Today

Nadir Price Wins Oceana's Annual Reef Week Instagram Competition
Oceana is pleased to announce the winner of its annual Reef Week instagram competition, Mr. Nadir Price of Belmopan. Held under the 2017 Reef Week theme: “Turn the Tide, Respect the Reef”, Nadir’s video submission combined footage from the Hol Chan and the Silk Cayes Marine Reserves. His images showcased both the beauty and vulnerability of the Belize Barrier Reef. The Instagram campaign encouraged Belizeans to share their original photos and videos that exemplify the Reef Week theme as well as their unique perspective, stories and experiences of the Belize Barrier Reef. Nadir’s prize package includes a GoPro Hero 5 Black camera, Lexar 32 GB storage card; GoPole Bobber, a LowePro carry case and GoPro Dual Battery Charger and Battery; gear which this budding photographer can continue to capture beautiful Belizean images.

More Entrepreneurs Emerge And Contribute To Belize Economy
These dramatic changes can be attributed to the increased outreach and awareness programs, as well as all enterprise and entrepreneurial development activities being done nationwide by BELTRAIDE, through its Small Business Development Centre, Belize (SBDCBelize) and other key national partners. In the time between the two earlier surveys (2014 and 2016), there were two national global entrepreneurial week celebrations, four major seed capital start-up initiatives; SBDCBelize fully expanded its outreach to all six districts, with scheduled workshops in Belize City, Orange Walk and Belmopan, and participated in more national trade shows and events.

Misc Belizean Sources

Second Annual Drug Run in San Pedro
Second Annual Drug Run coming up! Let's all show our support. "PUT A CAP ON DRUGS"

Cayo BTIA Strategic Plan Session
The Cayo BTIA is having a special strategic planning session on Wednesday, March 22nd, starting at 6:30pm. "Inviting our BTIA Cayo Chapter MEMBERS to an important consultation meeting being held next week Wednesday March 22nd, 2017 at the Cahal Pech Village Resort, San Ignacio Belize from 6:30pm - 8:30pm. Your presence and input is requested."

Aurelio...and the Garifuna Collective...
Friday, April 7th...Bliss Centre

The Queen's Commonwealth Essay Competition
The Essay Competition gives nationals and residents of all Commonwealth countries and territories aged 18 and under an opportunity to express their views about the world, share their dreams for the future and develop their creative writing skills. Participants continue to demonstrate their ability to stimulate and provoke discussions about important issues like poverty, sustainable development, gender inequality and universal education.

San Pedro High School Male Softball team National Champions
Mayor Daniel Guerrero, the San Pedro Town Council and Staff would like to congratulate the San Pedro High School Male Softball team on their triumph as National Champions for the NSSSA Male & Female Softball tournament 2017! Special mention goes out to our very own, Mr. Marion Mejia, for going the extra mile for the team and being an aspiring example and role model for these individuals. Great job guys! The entire community of San Pedro is proud of your accomplishment!

San Juan and Boca del Rio Clean Up Campaign
On Friday, March 17, 2016, Mayor Daniel Guerrero and Councilors along with the SPTC staff, went out to the streets of San Juan and Boca del Rio to inform the people of the Clean Up Campaign. Door to door, the residents were given bags and flyers, which explained how to maintain their environment clean. The Clean up campaign began today, March 20 and will run until April 7. Residents are asked to take out all their yard garbage and to dispose any water catchment containers/items.

BUMPY ROAD BE GONE!
The stretch between Las Terrazas and Journey's End has been fixed and it is now a smoother commute.

EXPORTBELIZE COLLABORATES WITH THE US EMBASSY FOR FDA WEBINAR
EXPORTBelize, a unit of BELTRAIDE, in collaboration with the Embassy of the United States of America facilitated a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Webinar on Friday March 17th, 2017, at the US Embassy in Belmopan. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is an agency within the Department of Health and Human Services in the United States responsible for protecting the public health by assuring the safety of Human Drugs, Vaccines blood products, medical devices and Food. The Webinar was presented by Mr. Allan Gonzalez, International Regulatory Analyst for FDA. Participants included to government stakeholders and private sector companies. Key topics covered were: Jurisdiction and responsibility of the FDA, FDA registration process, Facility inspections and follow-ups, Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). The aim of this session was to inform local companies on requirements to export into the US.

Mr. and Ms. Culture International Maya 2017
The SISE Town Council is having the annual Mr. and Ms. Culture International Maya pageant this Saturday, March 25th, at the Cayo Welcome Center. "Inviting the public to come out at the Cayo Welcome Center on Saturday, March 25th 2017. Come out and show your support to our Miss Culture Belize 2017, who will be representing our country in the Mr & Miss Culture International Maya 2017 pageant in Salvador. International Director and founder, Manuel Blanco, and Miss Culture Mexico 2017, Cielo Aguilar, will be there to present to the public, our Miss Culture Belize 2017. Five beautiful ladies will be modeling dresses from Mexican designer, Victor Franco. We'll also have performances by local an international artist, dancers etc..."

FCD gets donations from marathon
We wish to thank Dr. Isabelle and Justin Ford for the successful marathon. A donation of Bz$3,468.86 was handed over to FCD!!! Of course this was made possible due to the many supporters and all the marathon athletes. We are extremely grateful for this support. Funds are being earmarked for macaw conservation efforts this year.

Conchshell Bay Fish market
This is where you get FRESH fish in Belize city. Did you know that many BELAMS (Belizean /Americans) buy their fish in bulk and take to the states when they come home for vacation?

Channel 7

Brother Chopped Up Sister In Front Of Her Son; She's Dead, He's At Large
Last night a 29 year old mother was viciously chopped up by her own brother - and she died from her injuries this morning. After work on Sunday night at 6:00, Juliane Burke stopped by her home, and picked up her 6 year old son. She was about to take him for a walk, when she was ambushed by her brother, Elijiah Burke, who was reportedly hiding underneath a 'crocus' bag in her back yard. Burke chopped her several times, chasing Juliane and her young son out on the street. When she fell in a drain, he went after her with no mercy - all this happening within view of her son. Hearing the cries for help from Juliane and her son, her neighbors ran to assist, and called the police, but Burke fled the scene before they showed up. Juliane was rushed to the hospital where she succumbed to her injuries late this morning. Her husband, David Funes was out of town during the brutal incident, but he told us the story he got from his now traumatized stepson...

Father Of Three Killed In No-Man's Land
A father of 3 was gunned down and killed at the Western Border on Friday night. 40 year old bus driver Carlos Manzanero was hanging out with his family at Larios Bar around 8:30. A gunman then came out of a car and shot Manzanero several times. Police haven'r provided much details on this case, and the family didn't want to speak, but a couple of his friends told us what they know. Since August 2016, Carlos Manzanero worked as a bus driver for the Marlin Espadas tour agency. Every morning at 10:00 he would pick up passengers coming from Guatemala at the Western Border and take them to Belize City. And those coming from Chetumal, he would bring right back here to the border. But on Friday night, Manzanero's life was taken at this border crossing which he frequented everyday.

Burnt Human Skull Found in OW
Orange Walk police don't know what to make of a burnt, partial human skull which was found at a dumpsite on Chan Pine Ridge Road. It was discovered on Saturday afternoon, at the garbage dump site on Chan Pine Ridge Road. But, no one is reported missing in Chan Pine Ridge, and police cannot link it to any report they currently have. So, the skull has been taken to the Northern Regional Hospital Morgue. Police say quote, "DNA testing will be done to confirm the identity." Of course, that would require a matching DNA sample from the person or their possessions - and right now, police say they don't know who that person might be.

Long Lines At Airport, Who Is To Blame?
Last week we told you about reports that some hotels are seeing lower occupancy rates in 2017, than last year or the year before. But the BTB has been reporting steady increases in overnight arrivals, and it seems the immigration department just cannot keep up. Very long lines of inbound and outbound visitors have been piling up at the airport recently - because there's not enough staff to process them expeditiously. This video was taken on Saturday when the airport is usually the fullest. Outbound passengers - 95% tourists - were stuck in a sprawling line that spanned the entire length of the expended Terminal two. Problem is, there are only two immigration booths to process all those outbound visitors. Similarly on the inbound side at the arrivals lounge, even a massive new arrival hall that's been built could not accommodate all the passengers, and last week they were seen lining up outside, all along the length of the building. Again, there are two few immigration posts to process them inside. Now, there are reports that the Immigration Officers may have been on g-slow and that accounted for the outlandish lines but form what we've seen and been able to find out, that is not the case: they're not going slow, they're just overwhelmed! We could not reach the Director of Immigration.

NTUCB's New Pres Says No More Toothless Tiger For Union Umbrella Group
The National Trade Union Congress of Belize elected a new president on Saturday. This happened at an Emergency General meeting - after the last meeting in December, 2016, elected a president who was no longer eligible to be on the executive. So, Saturday's meeting was mainly to elect a new president. First Vice President Jacqueline Willoughby had been acting president and she offered herself to be full time president. Her only challenger on election day was Floyd Neal, the General Secretary of the Christin Workers Union. To the surprise of some, Neal, who is a relative newcomer to the union movement, easily beat out Willoughby - who has been prominent in the PSU for many years. In the end Neal garnered 45 votes to her 21 votes. Today, Neal held a press conference to say that, under this leadership, the NTUCB - which represents 10 powerful unions - will take its rightful place as a social actor:... Floyd Neal, President - NTUCB: "Is a new chapter in my involvement with the labor movement in Belize, early days yet, but without a doubt the narrative out there, the image most Belizean workers have to TUC is of a toothless tiger. We need to change that. So my own thinking is that we need to get the word out that the days of TUC being a toothless tiger are behind us and we need to do things, we need to take steps, we need to forge partnerships, which will let the power that be recognize it's a new day."

GOB Resisting "Titanic" Judgment
A month ago, we told you how Bahamian Securities Traders Rohn Knowles and Kelvin Leach won an award against the Central Bank, which forces the Bank to fork over 1.4 million US dollars that it had seized from both men's bank accounts. That's in addition to 8.8 million dollars which the Supreme Court awarded them back in January of 2016. Well, right now, the Government is appealing that ruling at the Court of Appeal, in hopes of convincing the judges to set aside that award. As has been well reported, that 8.8-million-dollar judgment debt dates back to the September of 2014 when both men and their company, Titan Securities, were indicted by the US Government along with several others for securities fraud and money laundering. At the request of the US, the Financial Intelligence Unit and the Anti-Drug Unit cleaned out their offices at the Matalon Building on Coney Drive. That raid was so extensive that the Belizean authorities removed all of their documents and equipment. They sued the Government and Justice Courtney Abel (ABLE) ruled in their favour that the search and seizure was excessive, unlawful, and in breach of their constitutional rights. He awarded the men almost 9 million dollars, but, in the Court of Appeal today, Government Attorney Denys Barrow was attempting to convince the Appeal Court judges that he came to the wrong conclusion.

Putting Coastal Concerns On Calendar
Today the Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute kicked off Coastal Awareness Week. CZMAI partnered with businesses and other stakeholders, like the IDB, to help raise awareness for the sustainable development of Belize's coasts. We spoke to CZMAI's CEO, Chantalle Samuels, and IDB Country Representative, Cassandra Rogers, about this important initiative... Chantelle Samuels, CEO - CZMAI: "The Coastal Zone Management and Institute is observing the 3rd annual coastal awareness week and this year we have selected the theme "Business and the Environment - A foundation for Sustainable Growth." It is a week that will allow us to engage our stakeholders, impart knowledge, but also build awareness and have them assist us in informing how our coastal resources should be sustainably manage and develop over time. So, today we are at the official opening ceremony and we've had remarks from our parent ministry - the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment and Sustainable Development, as well as the Ministry of Economic Development and we had a special invited guest Dr. Cassandra Rogers of the Inter-American Development Bank - Belize office and Belize is celebrating its 25th year of membership in the IDB and so they have partnered with Coastal Zone as an initial activity towards that celebration."

CDB Announces Poverty Reduction Funding For Belize
The Caribbean Development Bank today announced that it would be sharing 40 million US dollars in funding for poverty reduction across eight Caribbean countries. The money comes through the Basic Needs Trust Fund - which is administered by SIF in Belize. Countries that will benefit are: Belize; Dominica; Grenada; Guyana; Jamaica; Saint Lucia; St. Vincent and the Grenadines; and Suriname. Last month in Barbados, the CDB President told us why the CDB is always eager to partner with Belize for poverty reduction programmes: Jules Vasquez- reporter: "why is it that Belize is one of the top three countries with the CDB in terms of accessing loans?" Dr. William Warren Smith - President, CDB: "We are in that business, so that I think that that in part explains the extent of our involvement with Belize on the lending side. Their electricity sector also; historically that's one that CDB has given a lot of emphasis to."

Elmer Larios, His Lady, The "Joe" And The Judge
He claims to have found a man in bed with his girlfriend, and allegedly pistol whipped the "Joe,", but he was still remanded. 39 year old Elmer Larios was charged with aggravated assault with a firearm and wounding. He said that at about 3 a.m. on March 18, he went to his girlfriend's house and found a man there with her. He said the man assaulted him and he knocked the man unconscious but he did not have any firearm. Larios pleaded not guilty to aggravated assault, but he was remanded into custody until May 25.

Waitress Stoned Police Truck
19 year-old Jahsell Flores, a waitress from the Elements Night Club is at home tonight after dodging jail time for stoning one of the Police Department's New Isuzu D-Max pickups, breaking the windshield. It happened on Saturday at around 3:18 in the morning. Flores claimed that she was attacked by 2 women while she was at work. She said that one of her attackers threw a pint bottle at her, which she picked up and threw back at the women. It missed, and ended up breaking one of the windows on the D-Max, and so police charged her for damage to property. She was arraigned today, and the police say that the cost to fix the vehicle is $231 dollars. She pleaded guilty and explained what happened, telling the court of the fight, and of the fact that she was under the influence of alcohol at the time. She told the court that she was sorry for what she did, but Senior Magistrate Sharon Frazer was not particularly convinced of her remorse.

Kids And Karate
This weekend students from the House of Shotokan Karate Academy went to Chetumal to participate in the annual Wushu-Kung Fu-Karate tournament. The kids entered both form and fighting divisions, and performed exceptionally in their age brackets, most of them earning medals for their performances. We spoke to their Grand Master, Shihan Kelly, and Roberto Hoare, who brought home two gold medals... Apart from Hoare, three other students brought home medals. Kody Cuellar, Eion Anderson and Eleazar Orellana all placed third in the Children's Fighting Division, and Orellana also placed 2nd in the Children's Karate Form Division.

Real Recognition For Nestor Mendez
Last week Thursday, Belize's own Nestor Mendez, who is the Assistant Secretary General of the OAS received the Medal of Honor for Merit presented by the Sociedad de Estudios Internacionales of Panama, in recognition of his work to promote democracy, strengthening human rights, and fostering peace and security and integral development. The honor was presented to Ambassador Mendez during a ceremony in Panama City, Panama. On Friday, Ambassador Mendez held a meeting at the National Assembly of Panama with the Assembly leadership, committee chairs, and caucus members.

Almagro Visited Guatemala Villagers On The Edge of Belize
And while Ambassador Mendez was in Panama, his boss, Secretary General Luis Almagro was in Guatemala and Belize. We already told you how he did a flyover of Belize and what all he saw along the border, but what did he see in Guatemala? Well he visited villages along the border - those same villagers that pushed into Belize, and he was moved:... H.E. Luis Almagro, OAS Secretary General: "The 15th we visited Guatemala. We were received by the minister of foreign affairs Carlos Raul Morales. We had a meeting with him and we talked about the different issues related to the, ah, the relationship between Guatemala and the Organization of American states. Ahm, as well, ehm the work in the zone of adjacency. With minister Morales we visited the communities of San Jose Las Flores Chiquibul, San Marcos, Monte Los Olivos, and Santa Cruz. We really appreciate the opportunity that we have to talk to the people of those communities. That was very important for us. It was very gratifying for me and i am extremely grateful to see these people how they work hard to overcome the difficulties and the problems that they have and they have to confront every day."

Sarstoon Protocol, Was It A Fleeting Fancy?
But what we didn't hear from Almagro was anything about that Sarstoon protocol. All progress on that seems to have stalled due to intransigence in Guatemala. And, so, even though so much effort was put into it, now it seems like the status quo ion the Sarstoon s good enough. Here's how Belize's Foreign Minister put it:... Hon. Wilfred Elrington, Minister of Foreign Affairs: "Things like that I like to think of as matters that we are working on continually. We don't have any definitive position on it yet, but we continue to work on it. The good thing is, the very good thing is that we have no incidents down there and that is exactly what we want."

Channel 5

Woman chopped to death in Belize City; did her brother do it?
Tonight there is a most disturbing case of fratricide to report involving a pair of siblings in the King’s Park community. A brother reportedly hacked his sister with a machete [...]

Out west, family grieves after father and brother is shot multiple times, fatally
The second murder over the weekend took place on Friday night in the West.  A father of three lost his life at Champon at the adjacency zone area when he [...]

Minister of Home and Foreign Affairs says Police will take charge
The hit on the well-known bus driver, as well as the vicinity of the deadly spray of bullets on Belize’s side of the Adjacency Zone, has raised serious concerns about [...]

No need for diplomatic note on murder, says F.M.
We asked Foreign Minister Elrington if there will be a protest note sent to the Guatemalan government in the wake of the fatal shooting. According to the F.M., it is [...]

G.O.B. argues to strip Titan Securities of multi-million dollar judgment
“We will appeal…we don’t think that judgment can stand.”  So said Prime Minister Dean Barrow on January twenty-first, 2016, upon hearing that the Supreme Court had awarded Titan International Securities [...]

Less is more; Police Minister says new media policy helps police investigation
As you would know by now, the working relationship between the media and the police, is somewhere at its lowest ebb.  Police are now only providing bulletins scanty of details [...]

Minister promises to work on ‘institutional strengthening’ for press queries
While Elrington is of the firm belief that commanding officers often misspoke during interviews, he also agreed that information channeled to the media via the press release is ineffective.  In [...]

With E.U. quota gone, cane farmers must be competitive
Will Belizean cane sugar remain viable on the European market in 2018?  A gradual shift to cheaper beet sugar produced within the European Union will force stakeholders in the local [...]

Agriculture C.E.O. pushes crop diversity
According to Alpuche, the effect of European producers boxing out the competition can be devastating to local farmers if they do not diversify their crops.   Jose Alpuche, Minister of [...]

Ministries can make do with 2017 budget, says Elrington
The fiscal year 2017 commences on April first and the budget for the upcoming financial calendar has been presented by the Barrow administration.  While the annual financial plan will be [...]

Human skull found in Orange Walk dumpsite
Investigations are ongoing in the case of a human skull found at a dump site over the weekend in the Orange Walk District. Police are providing only the minimal details [...]

Stabbing reported in Caye Caulker
A minor was stabbed in Caye Caulker over the weekend. Police report that the seventeen-year-old boy Ryan Saldivar was wounded in the shoulder on Sunday sometime after seven. Investigations revealed [...]

Shop lifter promises not to steal again, spared jail
A shop lifter who was caught in Public’s Supermarket on Saturday stealing a ball of Dutch cheese was charged with theft and was luckily sentenced to a three-month suspended sentence. [...]

Shopkeeper pleads not guilty to attacking boy in Ladyville
A nine-year-old boy who was harmed late last week was back in school today despite injuries he sustained allegedly inflicted by a Chinese businessman.  The child’s mother, Darlene Morris alleges [...]

Floyd Neal: Beware the NTUCB ‘tiger’
An extraordinary general meeting of the National Trade Union Congress of Belize took place over the weekend in Belize City, at the headquarters of one of its strongest member unions, [...]

Unionists can resolve differences, says Neal
Neal was most recently an aide to Audrey Matura while she was vice-president at OCEANA, and he started out in the Government Information Service with stints at old United Democratic [...]

Youngsters take over Bliss stage for Arts Festival
For the past week or so, Belize’s youngest performers in the districts have been on the stage giving of their talents in art, music, dance, and drama as part of [...]

Revised curriculum boosts arts in schools
Much like the heyday of the adult Festival of the Arts in the late 1960’s and early 1970’s, the various incarnations of children’s Festivals of the Arts have given Belizeans [...]

Sports Monday talks Basketball, Football and Cycling
Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.   [Highlights from the weekend sporting activities….]

CTV3

Human Skull Found At Dump Site In Orange Walk
The charred remains of a human skull was discovered here in Orange Walk over the weekend. CTV3 News understands that on Saturday at around 12:25 in the afternoon, police were called out to the garbage dump site located on the Chan Pine Ridge road after the skull was spotted by an individual who was in the area. Upon arrival at the dumpsite police processed the area but were unable to locate the rest of the remains. The partial skull was subsequently taken to the Northern Regional Hospital Morgue where it awaits a DNA test to confirm an identity.

EU Says Goodbye To Sugar Cane
Belize along with various other countries who belong to the European Union’s preferential market are now bracing for direct competition following the recent EU reform on world sugar prices. In view of the introduction of beet sugar in Europe, Belize will no longer enjoy the preferential rates on sugar it has experienced in the past, thus, a reduction in prices of the sweetener is inevitable for Belizean cane farmers. While Belize will continue to benefit from quota- and duty-free access for 1.6 million metric tons of mostly raw-sugar shipments to the EU, Belizean Sugar which stands among the highest production costs may struggle to compete against EU beet farmers who are boosting yields and increasing scale. And with eighty percent of Belizean produced sugar exporting to the EU the market is in no doubt facing troubling times.

Opposition Leader Comments On Taxes In Belize
Last week Prime Minister Dean Barrow announced that his Government will be implementing a series of revised tax measures to raise $88 million dollars in the new fiscal year that commences on April 1st. Taxes will be going up on fuel, on the departure fee for air travel, on environmental tax charged on all imported goods, on electricity bills above $100, and on beer, stout, soft drinks and cement. While GST will not see an increase generally, as feared, the revised tax measures will certainly increase the cost of living for Belizeans. PUP Leader John Briceno remains concerned that the tax increases will push individuals into tougher economic conditions.

Will Opposition Participate In Bilateral Discussions In Guatemala?
At a press conference held on Friday, Foreign Minister Wilfred Sedi Elrington commented on the Opposition’s participation in the bilateral discussions with Guatemala. According to Elrington, the Opposition has been invited to all events and encounters, and suggested that it is the PUP who has been absent from meetings. Today, PUP Leader responded, rejecting Elrington’s assertions and instead accusing the Government of not reaching out to them.

Former PUP Standard Bearer Lobbys For Free Internet For Primary School
As you heard in the interviews a number of local leaders also had an input in making today’s initiative a reality. These include former area representative for Corozal South West Ramiro Ramirez and elected Village Council members. We spoke to Ramirez and Councillor Rodolfo Lainez to find out how they believe the community will benefit from free access to Internet.

The Reporter

Two charged for girl’s murder
Investigators in Belmopan have been successful in cracking open the murder case of an 18-year-old girl whose body was found at the Belmopan dumpsite last weekend. Shaylon Santos, 20, a resident of Teakettle village and Jaime Patnett, 22, of a Star Apple street address will be arraigned in the Belmopan […]

Tourist drowns in Placencia
An American tourist who was vacationing with family members in Placencia, drowned unexpectedly late Tuesday evening. On Tuesday around 6:30 p.m., Steven Gail Wine, a 53 year-old American of Colorado was with his wife and other family members socializing at Barefoot Bar, when Wine left the group to go for […]

17 year-old dies after allegedly colliding into parked vehicle
A seventeen year old teenager of St. Matthews village succumbed to injuries he sustained after he was involved in a collision on the Franks Eddy village road this past weekend. Police Investigations have since revealed that on Saturday March 11, at around 11:30 p.m., Eric Ibanez was […]

Belizean executed in Guatemala, shot multiple times
A Belizean man was executed in Melchor de Mencos, Guatemala last weekend just two weeks shy of celebrating his 24th birthday. The incident took place on Sunday March 12. Amadeoes Gaspar Teck, a Belizean resident of Bullet Tree Falls, Cayo was shot dead while in Guatemala. Reports […]

GOB’s new departure tax cut be bad for business says BTIA
The Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA), said this week, that the new changes in the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) Act, could raise departure taxes detrimentally high for the tourism industry. Prime Minister Dean Barrow presented the proposed changes to the PACT Act during his reading of […]

Bureau of Standards meets the public on World Consumer Rights Day
To commemorate World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD), the Belize Bureau of Standards (BBS) held a three-day public awareness drive, in three districts. The BBS began its tour on Tuesday, visiting Queen Elizabeth Park Orange Walk, on the actual celebration of WCRD, the bureau headed to the Battle […]

Growing Belize’s exports of services and goods
Belize’s exports have traditionally been raw materials from agriculture, forest and fisheries, but with tourism now its fastest growing service sector, the quest to expand Belize’s export of services has become a team effort. To this end, representatives of the Customs, Fisheries, Transport and Civil Aviation joined participants from BELTRAIDE […]

Keep your children close, Magistrate warns
A working mom has been ordered to pay a fine of $500.00 because the court found she had been negligent in allowing her 13 year- old son to be out on the street after 9 o’clock at night. She could have been fined $1,500, or sent to prison, Magistrate Norman […]

GOB hands out new computers
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment and Sustainable Development, handed over 25 new computers to the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) and the Hydrology and Agriculture departments, to assist them in improving their productivity. The ministry handed over the computers, a total value of $60,000, […]

Blood clots and their risks
A blood clot that is stationary, such as on the skin, or elsewhere, is generally not harmful, but if it is in a vein and breaks up and travels to your heart and lungs, it could become a serious health factor because it can get […]

10-foot “croc” removed from Belama Street
Residents in the Belama Phase 1 area can breathe a sigh of relief after learning that a 10-foot crocodile, large enough to kill a child, was safely removed from a street in the area at the break of dawn on Tuesday. It took the effort […]

Editorial
This week the Ministry of Economic Development broke out its first national consultation to create a National Trade Policy that will guide Belize on its development path leading to economic prosperity. The panel of presenters showed itself to be well informed and progressive in looking for new ways for Belize […]

Budget 2017: Spending cuts, Taxes up
Increased revenues from taxes, widening recurring expenditures, decreased Capital II spending, and a fulfilled promise to avoid retrenchment, are only some of the highlights of the Government of Belize’s 2017/2018 National Budget. Prime Minister Dean Barrow presented the $1.18 billion budget on Monday, accompanied by […]

Superbond 3.0 is unsustainable, experts say
By Alexis R. Milan Editor The government of Belize, this week, officially announced the success of its consent solicitation with the new terms of the revised 2034 bonds on the heels of touting the restructuring as a national and political victory. Experts, however, don’t share Prime Minister Dean Barrow’s same […]

No info, no coverage!
Relations between the media and the Belize Police Department’s press office deteriorated this week after a policy introduced in January governing the method of information dissemination has effectively blocked the media from important details about criminal and police related matters. The media has collectively decided […]

Fire consumes elderly woman and house
Louise Berry, an 86 year-old woman who lived alone in a 10' by 8' wooden structure on Iguana Street, Belize City, died Thursday morning when flames consumed her while trying to get out of the burning place. Berry’s step-sister, Gretel Lopez told the Reporter that […]

Breaking Belize News

Police needs public help to find man who killed sister
Police are seeking public assistance in capturing Elijah Burke in relation with his sister’s death. Today BBN reported that a woman was hacked to death at her home in Belize City on Sunday. Police now suspect that Elijah inflicted the fatal wounds to his sister. He has since reportedly gone into hiding.

Belize the 50th Happiest country in the world
Despite the economic outlook and social ills, Belize is still the 50th happiest country in the wold, according to the latest World Happiness Report, produced by the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network. The UN released the WHR 2017, this month, which ranked the citizen satisfaction of people in 155 countries. The report sampled responses of an average of 3000 participants per country, asking them to evaluate their lives in six categories, from 0-10 (0 being the worst possible, and 10 being the best). The six categories are “GDP per capita”, “Social support”, “Healthy life expectancy”, “Freedom to make choices”, “Generosity”, and “Perceptions of corruption.”

Woman chopped multiple times in Belize City
A woman was chopped multiple times in Belize City yesterday. According to reports, police responded to information of a chopping incident and visited the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) where they encountered Julian Burke, 29, suffering from multiple chop wounds.

Police find human skull at garbage dump in Orange Walk
Police in Orange Walk District found the charred remains of a human skull this weekend. According to reports, on Saturday at around 12:25 in the afternoon, police visited the garbage dump site located on Chan Pine Ridge road in Orange Walk District when they made the discovery. The partial skull was taken to the Northern Regional Hospital Morgue.

San Ignacio man busted with 9mm
According to police reports, on Saturday around 4:05 a.m., San Ignacio Police were on mobile patrol on Bullet Tree road when their attention was drawn to 26-year-old Melvin Ray Charles Budna, a labourer of San Ignacio, who threw away a black bag upon seeing the police.

GOB to borrow $81.8 million to finance 2017-2018 budget
Last fiscal year 2016-2017, government projected needing $149,419,532 to finance the budget. The actual out-turn was $245,593,911. For the new budget for fiscal year 2017-2018, the Prime Minister is projecting the external financing needs for the budget to be $81,815,420. In his budget presentation, […]

GOB to collect $7 million GST from your electricity bills
Belizeans whose electricity bills exceed $100 will now have to pay General Sales Tax (GST) on their monthly bills. Prime Minister Dean Barrow, in his budget presentation last week, introduced a tax package aimed at collecting more revenues while curbing expenditure. Barrow said that […]

Public officers’ 3 percent salary adjustment totals $15 million
dean In the Prime Minister’s budget speech last week, he reiterated government’s commitment to implement the third stage of the salary adjustment package for public servants and teachers. The increase was due to be implemented in the last fiscal year but was deferred after Hurricane […]

NTUCB elects Floyd Neal as new president
The National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB), at its Annual General Meeting (AGM) held over the weekend, elected a new president and executive. Floyd Neal, who ran against Jacqueline Willoughby, was elected as the union’s new president. Neal will serve as president for the […]

Young’s law firm remains open
Young’s Law Firm hasn’t yet closed its doors, as had been previously speculated. The Young firm, however, has made it clear that offices are still operational though business is winding now. Deceased attorney at law, Michael Young, was the sole proprietor of the law […]

Santa Elena town gets new sign
Yesterday, the Mayor of the twin towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena, Earl Trapp inaugurated a new sign in Santa Elena town. The colorful sign is located at the round about on the La Loma Luz boulevard. The Cayo district is a large […]

Philip Palacio to be buried today
Attorney at Law, Philip Palacio, is scheduled to be buried today. According to reports, a bus will leave Dangriga at 9 a.m. for those wishing to attend the funeral service in Belize City. We are told that the funeral will be held at St. […]

Police investigating murder of Belizean killed in Champon
According to an official report from police, on Friday night around 9, police visited Larios Bar located at the Belize Adjacency Zone area (Champon) at the Belize Western Border where they saw Carlos Manzanero, 40, Belizean bus driver of San Jose Succotz Village, Cayo […]

Blogs

A GORGEOUS Day Out and About in San Pedro Town
Today is just the most glorious day on Ambergris Caye, Belize. I have little more to tell you… Chuck & Robbie's Dive Shop San Pedro Belize Well that’s not TOTALLY true. But I can not promise you anything of consequence. Here’s the beauty of this morning. Low 80s…cooling breeze…the westerly wind swept much of the sargasso off the shore. And the weather for the rest of the week is forecasted to be great. I stopped at Chuck & Robbie’s Dive Shop and decided to take a short walk – and take lots of picture in Boca Del Rio. The beach road just north of town. And a few things going on in town – I posted the photos to my Facebook page but I thought I would re-iterate if you aren’t one of the billion on FB. Our San Pedro High School Male Softball Team won NATIONALS! And I caught them on their victory parade this morning.

It’s Not All Fun and Games Living on Ambergris Caye Island
For many, living on Ambergris Caye Island presents a challenging paradigm. Being largely a ‘drinking island’ the results of alcohol on working and personal environments can often reach crazy proportions. What would not be the norm elsewhere is often overlooked in regards to drinking.I once had a friend tell me he knew where to buy beer at 6:00 am if he needed to. My first thought was, “buddy that is the last thing you need to know”. That was a few years ago, sadly he has been spiraling ever since. I have also heard tales of repeat black-outs from the same person. At 49, I do not understand how that isfun, I tried it once (at 16) and vowed never again. To this day 33 years later I have been drunk way too many times to count (sorry mom) but kept my promise to myself and never blacked out again. Living on a tropical island and you can always find friends to play with at bars. Plus there is a tendency to get instantly thrown on the vacation party mode ride when friends are visiting or simply because we can alltoo easily. It is an above average party place with a strong social bar culture.

MAYAN LEGENDS: BEDTIME STORIES OF AN ANCIENT CIVILIZATION
Mayan Legends Mayan mythology emerged from the traditions and religion of a civilization as old as 3,000 years from a vast region called Mesoamerica: territories that are now the Mexican states of Campeche, Chiapas, Quintana Roo, Tabasco, and Yucatan, in addition to some parts of Central America. Even though many of the texts written by the Mayans were burned on the arrival of the Spanish, some legends have survived and continue to be told today. Mayan mythology is fascinating. The stories below serve a double purpose: to remember the traditions of a civilization that continues to be alive. To shed some light on a culture that we are immerged in. 1. The legend of the Aluxes: mystical beings that since the beginning of time take care of their owners. 2. The legend of Xtabay: a story that gives life to a liquor found in the Yucatan Peninsula. 3. The love story of Sac-Nicte & Canek: one of the many legends that explain the abandonment of Chichen Itza. 4. The legend of the Uxmal dwarf: an unlikely king who builds spectacular structures and made a city grow.

Reef Swim 2017 – What a Way to Create Awareness
You may have read about me joining a brave and very athletic group of swimmers during last year’s Reef Swim. We swam from the Amigo’s Del Mar Dive Shop to the reef and back. While I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and promised to do it again, this year had to be a little different. A mere swim to the reef and back would not begin to create the awareness needed to understand the importance of our World Heritage Site. After snorkelling the Barrier Reef from North to South along with Madi, this means more now than it ever did. Luckily I have a few friends that share my passion for our Belize Barrier Reef. Kristin Marin, head of the group of activists leading the charge against offshore oil in San Pedro, was ready for reef week even before I was able to contact her. She had already printed “no to offshore oil” flags for the occasion. The next obvious contact to make was our pioneer of reef cleanups himself, Martin John Leslie. I knew he’d be excited at the thought of having a lot more Reef Angels in the water on Reef Week. A flyer, a few more calls for Kayaks and snorkel gear and we had ourselves a Reef Week event we could be proud of.

Morning Drive By: Wyndham Grand Belize on Ambergris Caye
This morning we were driving to town to run some errands. And about 3 miles north – at the property called The Venezia – a bit of Venice in Belize – I saw this peeking out… …and came to a screaming halt. A Wyndham resort? In Belize? WHAT? Apparently yes. I had to look it up to see exactly what Wyndham Hotels & Resorts are. Here’s what I found…the Wyndham Hotel Group includes TONS of brands. Days Inn, Howard Johnsons, Ramada, Super 8, Travelodge and Dream Hotels – it also includes RCI, the largest timeshare company in the world. Wyndham Grand exists in over 40 locations – larger, luxury resorts. The website for the Wyndham Grand Belize is somewhat limited – and very similar to that for Venezia Del Caribe. So I don’t know if there is a new owner or a new investor or just an investment in a franchise. But I do know this will widen the exposure that Belize gets. Will turn up the spot light.

The Warm Allure of Naïa Resort & Spa
My idea of a perfect getaway is escaping to a quiet beachside resort, where you can explore secluded beaches, languish by a swimming pool, nap in a hammock and indulge in fabulous food and cocktails. Add having your worries massaged away by a skilled masseuse, while surrounded by peaceful serenity, and I’d say you had me at hello! Needless to say, when the nice folks at Naïa Resort and Spa invited me to a weekend of pampering, I couldn’t wait to pack my bags and head to Placencia! Known as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Belize, the Placencia Peninsula is centrally located in the Stann Creek District. This picturesque ribbon of land is blessed with 17 miles of sunrise beach front and a vast sunset lagoon with mountain views of the mainland. The length of the peninsula is dotted with sleepy communities, marinas and resorts, with the village of Placencia at the southern tip. Located between Maya Beach and the Garifuna village of Seine Bight, Naïa Resort and Spa is situated within the 200-acre Cocoplum Residence. On 19 acres of quiet beachfront and tropical landscapes, Naïa is the newest star in this resort community.

International Sources

CDB provides funds for poverty reduction in 8 Caribbean countries
The Barbados-based Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) says it is providing US$40 million in funding for poverty reduction in eight Caribbean through the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF). It said the resources will support improved access to quality education; water and sanitation; basic community access and drainage; livelihoods enhancement and human resource development services in low-income and vulnerable communities under the ninth phase of BNTF (BNTF 9). The countries that will benefit from the initiative are Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Suriname.

Europe Is Waving Goodbye to Sugar Cane
Europeans’ taste for sugar transformed the world. West Indies plantations built from the 17th century to feed demand drove a nexus of commerce, capital and manufacturing that fomented the industrial revolution and modern financial markets. More than three hundred years later, Europe is set to deliver a crippling blow to a trade that once made up almost a fifth of its entire imports, and has sustained developing-country sugar cane farmers since. The European Union’s decision to remove limits on its own beet-sugar output from October means less demand for cane growers from Jamaica in the Caribbean, to the Pacific island of Fiji, and Swaziland in southern Africa. “Within a decade or so, I can see the EU market for raw sugar from the Caribbean being all but a matter of history,” said David Jessop, an adviser to companies and governments on trade and investment in the region. "The challenge from the Caribbean perspective is what they can do, if anything, to ensure the future of their industry."

Cops hunting Toronto man accused in Belize murder
Central American detectives believe a Toronto man wanted for the senseless slaying of a beloved athlete on a lonely road is hiding here. Jordan Bacchus, 27, is wanted in Belize for the May 6, 2016 murder of Melvin Almendarez. The San Pedro Sun reports that Bacchus was the prime suspect at the time of the slaying but was sprung after 48 hours. A week later a warrant was issued for his arrest. By then, he had fled to Canada despite surrendering his passport and other documents to police in Belize.

Marine Biology class travels to Belize over Spring Break
A Saint Mary’s marine biology class took in-depth learning to a whole new meaning. The class spent spring break in Belize at South Water Caye applying what it learned in the classroom life to the natural world. Saint Mary’s assistant biology professor Laura Kloepper said marine biology had not been taught in years, but the department now plans on regularly running the class. “For the past few years no one has been teaching that class,” Kloepper said. “So we’ve resurrected the marine biology class and we plan on teaching this every two years. This trip to Belize was part of the lab component for our marine biology class that we offer here for majors.” Kloepper said studying Belize was an obvious choice because of its diverse environment. She said it provided a unique opportunity to learn more about a field that is not as prominent in a landlocked state like Indiana.

S&P cuts Belize rating following announced debt exchange
On March 17, 2017, S&P Global Ratings lowered its long-term foreign currency rating on Belize to selective default ('SD') from 'CC'. At the same time, we removed the rating from CreditWatch with negative implications, where we had placed it on Feb. 21, 2017. In addition, we lowered the short-term foreign currency rating to 'D' from 'C'. At the same time, we affirmed the 'CC' long-term local currency rating and the 'C' short-term local currency rating. We revised the outlook on the long-term local currency rating to stable from negative. We affirmed our transfer and convertibility (T&C) assessment at 'CC'. We are also lowering our rating on the bonds included in the sovereign's debt exchange to 'D' from 'CC' (foreign currency bonds due in 2038).

Belize Budget Looks To Indirect Taxes To Boost Revenues
Belize has rejected International Monetary Fund (IMF) recommendations to raise taxes across the board in favor of more selective reforms that it says will be less punitive to the country's businesses and poorest citizens. In his budget speech the Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Natural Resources, Dean Barrow, rejected the IMF's "publicly rehearsed" advice to raise general sales tax (GST), ditch zero-rated treatment for certain products, cancel exemptions, and increase personal and business income taxes as "regressive and punitive to both citizens and enterprise." He instead announced a series of "pro-poor and pro-people" reforms, which he said would increase revenues by 2.2 percent of GDP. These include a 10 percent income tax on statutory boards of "quasi government entities;" increasing the excise levy on aerated water, beer and stout, cement, and fuel; increasing the environmental charge on imported goods by one percent; and raising stamp duty on foreign exchange permits by 0.5 percent.

When former ‘King Sugar’ is waiting to be pronounced dead
The news out of Europe this past week has not been good for cane sugar, a manufactured product that has been at the heart of the continent’s relationship with the English-speaking Caribbean for over 300 years and, at one point, was the mainstay of most regional economies, including Barbados. Bloomberg, the global financial and business news service, reported that the European Union (EU) is planning from this October to fully liberalize its market for domestic beet sugar, a move which is expected not only to reduce demand for cane sugar imports from former colonies like Barbados which make up the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) group but also bring down prices close to what obtains on the world market where only the most efficient producers can survive. Jamaica, Belize and Guyana, which still export significant quantities of raw cane sugar to the EU, will be the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries hardest hit. In Barbados’ case, even though exports today are negligible compared with 25 or so years ago, they still bring in valuable foreign exchange which helps to boost the island’s stock of international currency reserves.

'Don't worry, be happy' seems to have bypassed the Caribbean
The fifth annual World Happiness Report, written by a group of independent experts under the aegis of the United Nations, was published on Monday, but the concept immortalised in song of “Don’t Worry, Be Happy”, often erroneously attributed to Bob Marley, seems to have bypassed the Caribbean. In fact, out of a total of 155 countries listed, the first four that could be considered part of the wider Caribbean are mainland countries: Mexico (25), Guatemala (29), Panama (30) and Colombia (36). The first island country listed, somewhat surprisingly given the rampart crime problems there, is Trinidad and Tobago (38). This is followed by two more Central American countries: Nicaragua (43) and Belize (50). The next Caribbean island is Jamaica (76), followed by Venezuela (82); another island, the Dominican Republic (86); and Honduras (91) also in Central America.

CDB announces US$40 million in funding for poverty reduction in eight Caribbean countries
The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has announced US$40 million in funding for poverty reduction in eight countries in the Caribbean region, through the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF). The resources will support improved access to quality education; water and sanitation; basic community access and drainage; livelihoods enhancement and human resource development services in low-income and vulnerable communities under the ninth phase of BNTF (BNTF 9). Countries that will benefit are: Belize; Dominica; Grenada; Guyana; Jamaica; Saint Lucia; St Vincent and the Grenadines; and Suriname. “The participating countries share many common characteristics and face a number of challenges inherent to small, open economies. BNTF 9 will respond to the development needs of these countries, which face challenges associated with limited diversity in production and extreme vulnerability to natural hazards, which is now exacerbated by climate change and other external shocks,” said Daniel Best, director of projects, CDB.

MCC SQUAD DEPART FOR MEXICO & BELIZE
A squad from Marylebone Cricket Club left Lord’s on Wednesday 15 March ahead of a 14-day tour of Mexico and Belize. The 13-strong squad will be managed by former Northamptonshire wicketkeeper Toby Bailey and captained by Hampstead batsman George Adair. The Club will play the Mexico national team at the Reforma Club in Mexico City, before travelling to Belize to compete in the sixth Central American Cricket Championships. The tournament features twelve teams including Costa Rica, Aruba and Belize. John Stephenson, MCC Head of Cricket, said: “This is the first MCC overseas tour of the year and it’s a very exciting one.

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