June 19, 2018

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, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials

The San Pedro Sun

One person detained in shooting death of 6-year-old Daisy Acevedo
Unofficial reports are that one man has been detained in connection to the tragic death of 6-year-old Daisy Emily Acevedo. The Belizean student of DFC Area in San Pedro Town lost her life in a gunshot incident around 7:40AM on Monday, June 18th. The child received gunshot injuries to her neck and partial amputation of her right index and middle finger. Residents of the area say they heard one gunshot. “I was getting my children ready for school when I heard a gunshot,” said one neighbor. “When I came outside I saw the commotion happening outside their house and heard the little girl got shot.”

Oceana Belize honors PM Barrow with special Wavemaker award
Belize’s landmark legislation to ban offshore petroleum exploration to protect our World Heritage barrier reef, as introduced by Prime Minister Hon. Dean Barrow and implemented by Barrow’s UDP administration, has prompted Oceana Belize and the Belize Coalition to Save our Natural Heritage to honor P.M. Barrow with a special 2018 Wavemaker award.

Ambergris Today

Step Father Detained In Connection With Death Of 6-Year-Old After Shooting Incident
San Pedro Police are investigating the death of 6-year-old, Daisy Emily Acevedo, who died from a gunshot to the neck, in an incident that took place today, Monday, June 18, 2018 in the DFC area of Ambergris Caye, Belize.

Belize Civic Center To Be Used For Emergency Operations Center
Following a tour of the Belize Civic Center and other facilities in Belize City on Wednesday, June 13, 2018, Minister of National Emergency Management Hon Edmond Castro and officials from the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) and the City Emergency Management Organization (CEMO) agreed that the Civic Center, in the event of a major disaster, would be utilized as headquarters for the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), among other things. The suitability of the Civic Center for this purpose is due in part to the fact that it is self-contained, with in-house generator and adequate fuel supply, as well as water supply for an extended period.

Misc Belizean Sources

Online survey into the causes and effects of gangs in Belize City
The Ministry of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation and its partner agencies are conducting an online survey into the causes and effects of gangs in Belize City and they want to hear from Belize City residents, ages 12+! Surveys are open from June 18th – 29th. Below you will find links to access to survey that is specific to your organization.

Consular Spotlight! Marsha Hinkson
Embassy Belmopan issues thousands of non-immigrant visas to Belizeans who want to travel to the United States for tourism, education, temporary work, or onward travel to other destinations. Occasionally we encounter applicants who are using their visas to do extraordinary things. Marsha Hinkson is the Chief Air Traffic Control Officer at the Belize Department of Civil Aviation. She recently used her visa to travel to a workshop on Search and Rescue Satellite Aided Tracking (SARSAT) hosted by the U S Government National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Marsha is partnering with colleagues from the U.S. and Central America and using the training and contacts she gained from the workshop to make air and sea travel safer in Belize!

The 2018 BAS Schedule at a glance
2018 Belize Archaeology Symposium

Grand Opening Crooked Tree Museum and Cultural Heritage Center
Saturday June 30, 12pm-4pm.

Jaibita at Paradise Theater
June 24 at 8pm, at the Paradise Theater. Sale of tickets on Reef Radio.

PUP Convention in Dangriga
I knew that from the time John Briceno became the new party leader, Anthony Sabal will not remain the standard bearer for the People’s United Party (PUP) in Dangriga. This is because he was placed there at the urging of his friend and former leader of the PUP Francis Fonseca. Together they worked to get rid of their then sitting Representative Ivan Ramos the brother of now aspiring candidate Anthony Ramos. Anthony Sabal also lost twice so the PUP are looking for a fresh face. John Briceno is looking for loyalty to him as the leader of the People’s United Party like most leaders. He is going to encourage people whosupports him to run in all these conventions. If he can avoid conventions, he will recommend that the party do endorsements, because he too shall have a party leadership convention. Luckily, for him in the last Municipal Elections, People’s United Party made some significant gains by winning Belize City and Corozal. He has to be careful with these endorsements because they can further splinter his party and make it difficult for his candidates to win in the next General Election.

Join the Belize Defence Force, serve your Country
The Belize Defence Force will be conducting an Officer Selection Examination fromFriday 13thJuly to Saturday 14th July 2018.

"G.R.E.A.T" Gang Resistance Education and Training graduation ceremonies
On Monday June 18th 2018, Community Policing Officers attach to,Region three, Ladyville Police Formation; held two "G.R.E.A.T" Gang Resistance Education and Training, graduation ceremonies, first in Crooked Tree Village, at the Crooked Tree Government Primary School; where forty (40) students were recognized for completing the program. The second graduation ceremony took place in Burreal Boom Village. Whereby, a total of twenty-two (22) students from, Therese Roman Catholic School, received certificates of completion for their participation in thirteen (13) weeks of "Gang Resistance Education and Training program".

Belizean Attorney Writes US Embassy about Immigration Reform
Dear Embassy of the United States, I served my country as Ambassador to your great nation for seven years, and over three administrations, the end of President Clinton’s second, and two administrations of President George W. Bush. I was in service in 2001, on that terrible 9/11 when so many were murdered on the attack on the Twin Towers and the Pentagon. Belize stood in solidarity with you. I was in Peru and among those who immediately ratified the Inter-American Democratic Charter and one who will never forget Secretary Powell’s grim demeanor. I was among those who immediately condemned these acts of terrorism.

COROZALEÑOS CONCERNED OVER RESTRICTIONS IMPOSED BY SEA BREEZE HOTEL MANAGEMENT
On Sunday, June 17, an image shared on social media Facebook brought about concern and disapproval by Corozaleños. The picture taken at night-time and posted to Facebook was that of a peir opposite the Sea Breeze Hotel, which displayed signs with terms and conditions imposed by the Sea Breeze Hotel Management. Noticeable on one of the signs, were the words "PRIVATE PROPERTY". Several Corozaleños in the past and present day have questioned who authorized the building of the peir and have expressed their discontent with the management of Sea Breeze Hotel for restricting access to the Peir by means of a chain barrier.

COROZAL FATHER'S DAY KIDNAPPING
A man is missing and his family members are concerned for his safety after they started receiving calls demanding money for his return. The report went in to police sometime around 7:00 on Sunday night when Jairo Campos, 47, of San Narciso village, Corozal informed that about half an hour earlier he received a call from a Smart phone number and that a man on the other end told him that his brother, Homero Campos, 43, who lives in the same village, was kidnapped and that his family needs to pay $10,000 for his release. Campos said that when he checked about his brother’s whereabouts he found out that he had left home to go work at his farm, situated between San Narciso and San Victor villages and that he had not returned home and has not been seen or heard from".

BELIZE FISHING REPORT: Weeks of June 11th - June 17th, 2018
Rough weather this week kept most of the catches to a minimum, but each angler managed to land some Bonefish. We are getting ready for a busy week with our Yellow Dog Family trip, and we are looking forward to seeing lots of familiar faces. As soon as the weather settles down, the bite will turn on in full force. More catches next week.

This Tree Tuesday we are highlighting the Gumbo Limbo tree (Bursera simaruba)!
The most distinctive feature of this tree is its bark. The smooth, red and peeling outer layer has led to its local name of tourist tree for its resemblance to a sunburned tourist. The leaves and fruits have a turpentine-like odor similar to copal. Both trees belong to the Burseraceae family. Like copal, gumbo limbo produces a resin, which is dried and burned as incense in parts of South America. In Florida, at the northern end of its range, its soft timber was carved into carousel horses before plastic molds were invented.

2018 International Costa Maya Festival
August 2-4.. more to come...

Channel 7

Jeweler Remanded For Murder
On Friday's news, we told you about the bizarre case of 50 year-old Jose Villanueva, a Belize City Businessman who was shot and killed at his common-law wife's home on East Collet Canal. His next door neighbor, 57 year-old Manuel Pacheco, was the one who pulled the trigger, and tonight, he's at the Belize Central Prison on a murder charge. Villanueva and Pacheco, the well-known jeweler who owns Pacheco's and Sons Jewelry, had some sort of disagreement. The two had a history of disputes. And on Thursday, Pacheco pulled out his licensed weapon, and he shot Villanueva to the abdomen and the arm. Villanueva died shortly after.

Northern Business Held Hostage On A Ransom
Tonight a businessman from San Narciso, Corozal has been kidnapped - and is reportedly being held for a million dollars ransom. On Sunday, 43 year old Omero Campos went to his farm - which is off the San Victor Road - and that's the last time he was seen. Police later found his tractor in the field with the key in it. His family believes that he was ambushed and abducted by a group of criminals. And then, on Sunday night the family got a call from an unidentified, Spanish-speaking person who told them that they had Campos, and were demanding money if the family wants to see him alive once more. Reports are that the phone number carries a Mexican area code.

6 Year Old Killed By Brother In Accidental Shooting
Tonight, a San Pedro Town family is in mourning following the accidental shooting of 6-year-old Daisy Acevedo by her 11-year-old brother. The little girl was shot in the neck and died shortly after. We went out to San Pedro this morning looking for answers. Alex Courtenay reporting: 6 year old Daisy Emily Acevedo lived in this San Pedro home with her mother, siblings and stepfather, Shamir Myvett. She and her 11 year old brother were getting ready for school as usual when the young boy somehow got a hold of Myvett's 9mm pistol and accidentally fired it. A single shot hit Daisy, who unfortunately succumbed to her injuries while receiving treatment.

Mother of Three Killed In Accident
A mother of 3 was killed in an accident on the Benque Road. It happened between miles 71 and 72 near the new Mopan Gas Station on Sunday morning. 26 year old Neidy Cifuentes was heading to Succotz with her friend Sandra Garcia. Garcia's 9 year old daughter was along with them too. Cifuentes ran off the road and the vehicle flipped-| flinging her into a field where she suffered massive chest and spinal injuries. Cifuentes didn't make it. Courtney Weatherburne went west to find out what could have caused this terrible accident.

Immigration Operations Weekend
The Immigration Department did a sweep of three bars in Bella Vista village, Toledo District this weekend. 17 persons were detained including the owners or managers of two bars, A Frenchman who runs Blue Sky nightclub and a Chinese man who owns Galaxy. Both establishments are known to have bar girls entertaining patrons. The Director of Immigration Diana Locke accompanied her Immigration Department team on this southern operation. At the end of today, 7 persons were found guilty of immigration violations, while 5 pleaded not guilty, and 2 persons were given and order to leave.

Freedom Street Fire
On Saturday the National Fire Service responded to a blaze on Freedom Street in Belize City. The fire was started through still undetermined means and spread quickly through the wooden house. While no one was injured, all of the family's possessions were lost. Today we spoke to the Fire Service as well as the family to get the full story. Orin Smith - Station Officer: "On Saturday, 16 June, 2018 at approximately 5:48pm the National Fire Service responded to reports of a structural fire on Freedom Street, Belize City. ON arrival on scene a 16x40 plyboard structure with flat zinc roofing was seen engulfed in flames. The south face of another plyboard structure on the immediate north of the burning structure was also being threatened by fire. Following a size up, the National Fire Service went into operations extinguishing the fire. The fire was brought under control and extinguished."

Private Pickup Rams Into Police Mobile
A private pickup rammed into a police mobile this weekend on the Southern Highway. It was a dispute which our sources say started at a bar named "Flum" where everyone was socializing. After that the police mobile left - with the private pickup in pursuit. Police told us more:... ACP Joseph Myvette - Head, NCIB: "Police responded to an accident between mile forty-two and forty-three on the Southern Highway where the officers in the police Wingle which were five officers in total, reported that whilst traveling on the highway, they were collided into from behind by an orange in color Wingle, at the time which was driven by one, Asuncion Rush, and the Wingle which was driven by Rush received extensive damage to its front portion as it had collided into the rear of the police vehicle."

Mayhem At Mae Gordon Park In Garden City
Belmopan residents got a scare this weekend when shots rang out in their quiet city. It happened at the Mae Gordon Park on Hummingbird Avenue in Belmopan. Police told us it was the aftermath of a fight:.. ACP Joseph Myvette - Head, NCIB: "Shortly after 11:20 p.m., one James Wagner, thirty-four-years-old of a Belmopan address reported that whilst he was socializing at the Mae Gordon Park in Belmopan City, he had an altercation with several persons. Thereafter, those persons left the area and some thirty minutes later, he heard several gunshots which caused him to hide behind his vehicle after which he noticed that his vehicle received several damages from bullets. Police have since detained one person and this investigation is ongoing." So far, no one has been charged.

Paul Wins The Senators’ Showdown
After weeks of build-up, political ads, and jostling for support from senior members of their party, the two PUP Senators, Paul Thompson and Valerie Woods, went up against each other in a fathers' day convention to choose the PUP standard bearer for the Albert Division. Now, if you followed the political chess game on this particular challenge, you'll know that Woods decided to challenge Thompson who was the PUP's losing candidate in the 2015 general election. But there were strong undercurrents of party rivalries because Thompson is a Cordel Hyde loyalist and they delivered the Belize City Council victory for the PUP. Valerie Woods, on the other hand was the favourite of many in the party power structure, not least because she was a female candidate for standard bearer in a party that currently has none.

Accused Killer Gets Off
A 23 year old from Cayo is free of murder charges tonight after four years on remand. Joseph Vacarro was charged for Victor Vargas's murder back in 2014. This morning in the Belmopan Supreme Court, Prosecutor Porsha Staine- Ferguson withdrew the charge of murder against Vacarro Junior leaving only Steven Gomez to face the charge alone. The charge was withdrawn because there was no evidence to prove joint enterprise between Vacarro and his co-accused. The DPP's office will now proceed to trial against Gomez for Victor Vargas's murder. Vargas was a 34 year old father of 7 Victor Vargas from Unitedville. He was trying to part a fight when one of the men stabbed him in the throat.

More Charges For Mexican Credit Card Fraudsters
It's been about 2 months since we've had an update on the 3 accused Mexican credit card fraudsters, but they are back in the news tonight after police handed them a bevy of new criminal charges. You'll remember them as 26 year-old Belen Hernandez, her husband, Joscan Jafet Hernandez, and 31 year-old Lionel Rodriguez. These 3 allegedly went to several Atlantic Bank ATM branches countrywide between December 2017, and January 2018, and, using stolen international credit cards to fraudulently withdraw as much as 100 thousand dollars - maybe more. All 3 were taken before Senior Magistrate Aretha Ford today, where Lionel Rodriguez was arraigned on 29 counts of theft from ATM's in Belize and Ladyville. Belen Hernandez was charged with 23 counts of theft, and her husband, Joscan Hernandez, was charged with 3 counts. Senior Magistrate Frazer remanded them to the Belize Central Prison until August.

Cops Dies On Duty
A policeman died at work mysteriously this morning. Foul play is not suspected but 45 year old Constable Mitchell Cob collapsed in the parking lot and was found dead by another cop. Police told us more: ACP Joseph Myvette - Head, NCIB: "The police report is that sometime around 10p.m., I believe, last night, while police were patrolling the compound, a male person dressed in police uniform was seen lying between some vehicles in the compound and upon the officer's examination the person was identified to be police constable Mitchell Cobb who seemed to have been motionless. As a result, he was removed and taken to the Corozal Community Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival."

Electrocuted While Fixing Barbed Wire Fence
A 22 year old Mennonite in Shipyard died from electrocution this weekend. On Saturday at midday in Shipyard, JACOB WEIBE, was working on a barbed wire fence in the rain when he was struck by a lightning. He fell to ground and died on the spot.

Channel 5

6-Year-Old Shot Death; Was the Shooting Self-Inflicted?
There is grim news from the island of San Pedro where residents are still recovering from a deadly fire last week.  A six-year old girl was killed at her house [...]

Jeweller Manuel Pacheco is Arraigned for Murder of his Neighbor
Fifty-six-year-old jeweller Manuel Pacheco, a resident of Cockburn Lane, Belize City, appeared in court today for arraignment. Pacheco, whose business is located on East Collet Canal near to Pound Yard [...]

Police Say Surveillance Evidence Secured Murder Charge
Police, however, contend that there is sufficient evidence to charge Pacheco, despite reports that he was defending himself and property following an altercation with Villanueva over a dog. At the [...]

San Narciso Businessman Kidnapped
Corozal police are investigating what appears to be a kidnapping in San Narciso Village.  Forty-three-year-old Homero Campos remains missing tonight, following an ominous phone call made to his family on [...]

Mother of 3 Perishes in Road Traffic Accident, 2 Others Hospitalized
A mother of three was killed in a road traffic accident on Sunday afternoon in western Belize. San Ignacio resident, Neidy Cifuentes was driving with a friend and her daughter [...]

PC Mitchell Cobb Found Dead Behind Corozal Police Station
By all accounts, the passing away of a police officer found unresponsive outside of the Corozal Police Station, appears to be of natural causes.  On Sunday night, while his colleagues [...]

Fuel Prices Increasing Yet Again
There are back to back changes to fuel prices announced within days of each other. The latest is a slight increase in the price of premium which goes from eleven [...]

Illegal Activities Continue within Columbia Forest Reserve
Since sounding an alarm several weeks ago that Guatemalan farmers have been encroaching on land surrounding Otoxha Village in the Toledo District, the Belize Defense Force has been deployed to [...]

B.P.P. Included in Re-registration Process
A seat at the table is what the Belize Progressive Party has been clamoring for, in respect of the upcoming, countrywide re-registration exercise.  That call has been heeded by the [...]

BISL Versus G.O.B. before Court of Appeal
The Court of Appeal today heard an appeal brought by Belize International Services Limited against the government.  This follows a win by the government in October 2016, three years after [...]

Trio of Mexicans Facing More Charges for Theft of Credit Cards
From the Court of Appeal to the Magistrate’s Court…more charges were brought today against three Mexican nationals who are already facing charges for theft of credit cards from the Atlantic [...]

Paul Thompson, P.U.P. Standard Bearer for Albert Division
The Albert Division convention took place on Sunday. Just under a thousand voters made it to the Anglican Catheral College compound to cast their vote for Paul Thompson or Valerie Woods. [...]

Family of Five Homeless after Weekend Fire on Freedom Street
A small plywood house was destroyed by fire over the weekend in Belize City. Five persons occupy the house but no one was inside when the fire broke. Family members [...]

Early Morning Tremor in Guatemala; Looters Hit Warehouse with Relief Donation
Guatemala was hit by a tremor early this morning, two weeks after the eruption of Volcan de Fuego. The epicentre of the quake was registered near the Pacific Coast less [...]

5 Officers Involved in an Accident in the South; Were They under the Influence?
The police department is investigating a collision on Sunday night in Bella Vista Village involving a Wingle pickup truck which was assigned to officers in that jurisdiction.  The vehicle was [...]

Man is Targeted by Gunman Following Altercation in Belmopan
Belmopan police are investigating a shooting incident over the weekend during which a vehicle was damaged after being struck by multiple bullets.  According to thirty-four-year-old James Wagner he was hanging [...]

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

CTV3

San Narciso Businessman Believed To Be Kidnapped
There is very disturbing news to report tonight involving the reported kidnapping of a businessman from San Narciso Village in the Corozal District. The family of 43 year old Omero Campos believes that he was abducted by a group of criminals on Sunday. Campos had gone to his farm located about 5 miles outside of San Narciso Village, inside a feeder road along the San Victor Village road, to do some field work. It appears that while on the farm, he was ambushed by kidnappers.

New O.C. To Take Over Corozal Police...Why so Fast?
As we reported, P.C. Cob was due for a transfer to the Punta Gorda Town Police Formation. The transfer of officers is a regular occurrence, and normally comes any time after serving two years at a municipality. But there will be more transfers from Corozal, and sources indicate that there will be significant changes as well including the arrival of a new Officer in Charge. This we find strange since Superintendent Sinquest Martinez had taken over the Police Formation just one year ago.

Price for Premium Goes Up..Regular Decreases
Over the past two weeks the Government of Belize has promised Belizeans marked reductions in the price of fuel at the pumps following nine consecutive price increases in fuel prices since the beginning of the year. Over the weekend Belizeans experienced a slight release as regular gasoline saw a reduction of thirty-three cents, driving the price for regular fuel here in Shuga City to eleven dollars and ten cents. That however, is as far as the good news goes as you can expect to pay more for Premium gasoline effective tonight at midnight. Here in Orange Walk the increase will bring Premium gasoline to staggering eleven dollars and seventy-eight cents, an increase of four cents.

Orange Walkenos Arrested For Drug Trafficking
Two Orange Walkenos have been arrested and charged by police for the crime of ‘Drug Trafficking’ following a search that was conducted over the weekend. Shortly after 5:30 on Friday morning, police visited the home of twenty-eight-year-old Robert Bruce Johnston on Rio Bravo Street where they conducted a search which led to the discovery of 2,141 grams of cannabis. Present at the time of the search was nineteen-year-old student, Gianira Anili Tillett, also of Rio Bravo Street. As a result both Johnston and Tillett were jointly charged with ‘Drug Trafficking’.

LOVE FM

Police officers learn non-lethal arrest tactics
Police Officers from the Eastern Division are undergoing a three-day training on how to diffuse a dangerous situation in a non-lethal way. The recent incident with the thirteen-year-old that was shot by police sparked an outcry from the community. These skills utilized by police officers will prevent a similar incident in the future. Sr. Superintendent …

Mayor Wagner discusses street works
The UDP administration, under Mayor Darrel Bradley, did extensive work on the streets in Belize City. One of the concerns about the PUP’s administration was whether it would give the same level of attention to the city streets. Love News spoke with Mayor Bernard Wagner who assured us that the street works continue. Mayor Bernard …

Mayor Wagner speaks about the Council’s finance
The new Belize City Council led by Mayor Bernard Wagner has already reached its one hundred days marker. Wagner said that the Council is faced with some financial constraints since sixty-five percent of its total revenue which is usually collected at the beginning of the year was spent by the past administration before the elections. …

Police officers investigated in traffic incident
On Saturday night, there was another traffic incident but with no fatalities. It involved five police officers who were traveling on the Southern Highway when their vehicle was rear ended. ACP Myvette said they are still investigating the incident. Meanwhile, there are indications that it may not have been a simple accident, and that some …

Manuel Pacheco charged with the murder of Jose Villanueva
This morning 56-year-old Manuel Pacheco appeared with his attorney Richard “Dickie” Bradley before Chief Magistrate Sharon Frazer where he was arraigned for the murder of Jose Villanueva. The Chief Magistrate did not take a plea from him since the matter is indictable. After the arraignment, Bradley spoke to the media about the case. Attorney Richard …

Six year old dies from gunshot wound in San Pedro Town
A six year old girl died from a gunshot wound in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye this morning. But, was her death accidental? Up to news time Police have not released information as to how the child was shot, whether she was fatally injured by someone else or if she shot herself. What police has said …

Altercation leads to shooting in Belmopan City
On the night of June 16, a resident of Belmopan City reported a shooting incident to police. ACP Myvette told the media that according to the complainant, the incident happened shortly after an altercation that same night. ACP Joseph Myvette, Head, National CIB: One James Wagner 34 years of a Belmopan address reported that whilst …

Police officer is found dead in Police Station Compound in Corozal Town
A police officer was found unconscious last night in the compound of the Corozal Police Formation. The officer, Police Constable Mitchell Cob was on duty and rushed to the hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Officers are still investigating what led to PC Cob’s death. ACP Joseph Myvette Head National C.I.B. : Sometime …

Man missing in Corozal District, family receives call
Police have moved swiftly launching an investigation into the report of a missing man from San Narciso Village in the Corozal District. This follows a report they received from the individuals family in which they stated that someone had called them after their family member mysteriously disappeared. While police did not go into details of …

Benque woman dies in traffic incident, two survive
A traffic incident claimed the life of a 27-year-old resident of Benque Viejo Town on Sunday. Police report that Neidy Noeli Cifuentes was driving a Hyundai Santa Fe along with two others when the traffic incident took place. Cifuentes died after five o’clock that same evening. ACP Jospeh Myvette provided information investigators have gathered so …

PlusTV

Belizean Government donates 100 thousand dollars to Guatemala
The Government of Belize is contributing $50,000 US dollars towards Guatemala’s relief efforts. According to a press release issued today by GOB, the Government of Belize has been heartened and inspired by the outpouring of sympathy and support displayed by Belizeans to assist those affected by the ...

CONFLICT MEDIATION TRAINING
Restore Belize and the Youth and Community Transformation Project is hosting a one week Conflict Mediation Training. The Youth and Community Transformation Project funds several agencies that work with at risk youth across the country. The one week training was organized to equip those agencies with...

NEMO GIVES CEMO THE GO AHEAD FOR CIVIC CENTER USE
The Minister of National Emergency Management along with CEMO officials have agreed to use the Belize Civic Center as an Emergency Operations Center. Last week, CEMO held its annual press briefing to share what it has been doing to prepare for the Hurricane Season already upon us. During the press c...

‘LIGHT UP THE CITY 2’ COMES TO BELMOPAN
Last year PlusTV collaborated with Integrity radio to Host the first ever “Light up the City Concert” in Belize City. This year the Musical event has been adopted by the Belmopan Church of the Nazarene and will be held on Saturday June 30th in Belmopan, taking pn an even bigger scope and...

The Reporter

Child reportedly shot dead in San Pedro
The police have confirmed that a child is dead following a shooting in San Pedro town this morning. The child, police say, is a six year-old girl. Other reports reaching the Reporter is that the child was shot by another child. We are awaiting the […]

Corozal man goes missing; family receives call demanding ransom for his release
A man is missing and his family members are concerned for his safety after they started receiving calls demanding money for his return. The report went in to police sometime around 7:00 on Sunday night when Jairo Campos, 47, of San Narciso village, Corozal informed […]

Breaking Belize News

Kidnappers demand ransom for release of San Narciso businessman
On Sunday, the relatives of businessman Homero Campos, 43, reported to police that he was […]

Woman dies in afternoon traffic mishap
One woman, Neidy Cifuentes, died in a road traffic accident when she lost control of the […]

Saturday night altercation ends in shots fired
Belize city police have detained a suspect who reportedly fired several shots and damaged a vehicle […]

Police Wingle involved in collision on Southern highway
Police are investigating a traffic accident involving two wingles on Saturday around 11:55 p.m. Five police […]

San Pedro man detained after 6-year-old is fatally shot
A six-year-old baby girl from the San Pedro DFC Area is dead after receiving a single […]

San Narcisio businessman reported missing
Yesterday police received reports that businessman, Homero Campus, 43, of San Narcisio village, Corozal, is missing. […]

Price up Premium goes up
The Belize Bureau of Standards (BBS) has just issued new gas prices effective midnight tonight. […]

Open Letter to the United States Embassy in Belize by Lisa Shoman
The views expressed in this article are those of the writer and not necessarily those of Breaking Belize […]

Belize quickly becoming known as luxury destination
Belize, while already regarded as a premier tourism destination, is quickly becoming known among travelers […]

Police officer found dead behind Corozal police station
Police Constable, Mitchell Cob, was found unresponsive last night while on duty. His body was […]

Child playing with loaded gun shot dead in San Pedro
According to tragic reports from San Pedro, a six year old girl was shot dead […]

Regular gas goes down
Today, the Belize Bureau of Standards informed of a decrease in the price of Regular […]

Fair weather to continue
The 24-hour forecast is for relatively drier conditions to set in during the next 12 […]

International Sources

President Tsai thanks Belize, St. Lucia for support of Taiwan
President Tsai Ing-wen on Tuesday expressed gratitude to Belize and Saint Lucia, two of Taiwan's diplomatic allies, for their support of Taiwan's efforts to expand its international participation. While receiving a delegation of Belizean parliamentarians at the Presidential Office, Tsai said Belize President Dean Barrow has been firm in his support of Taiwan's bid to gain greater international participation and has maintained long-term bilateral exchanges with Taiwan. Belize has spoken up in favor of Taiwan's inclusion in major international organizations and events, including the World Health Assembly (WHA), the International Civil Aviation Organization and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Tsai noted.

STATE CHECKOFF AIMS TO IMPROVE BELIZEAN NUTRITION WITH SOY PROTEIN
Belize is one of the poorest countries in Central America, with high incidence of undernourishment. To improve nutrition there and to help communities encourage healthier lifestyles, Xpand2 LLC (an international marketing consultancy) and the Kansas Soybean Commission are developing a nutritional strategy based on soy protein and a self-sustainable microbusiness model using soy cows. It all starts by being affordable for the Belize population. Promoting food security and looking for an economic way to provide healthy food ensure poor communities receive at least some of their daily nutritional needs. Hygiene education helps avoid malnutrition and diseases related to food management and processes. Nutrition education encourages consumers in the selected communities to adopt new, healthier diets that include soy protein. Health education provides them with more information about soy and health benefits, encouraging them to prevent chronic diseases by eating more soy protein.

Videos

June 18, 2018

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, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials

The San Pedro Sun

SPTC hosts clean-up day in DFC/Escalante subdivisions
With the rainy season underway, keeping potential mosquito-breeding sites clean is a must in order to prevent deadly diseases such as dengue and malaria. In an effort to sensitize the community to keep their areas free of trash, The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) held a clean-up day on Saturday, June 9th in the DFC/Escalante Subdivisions. SPTC staff along with volunteers joined forces to collect large amounts of garbage and relieving some areas from visible eyesores. Armed with trash bags and gloves, Mayor Daniel Guerrero and the group began the community service at 6AM. They cleaned along the Marina road, and the main streets of the subdivisions beginning from the W&W grocery store.

Education First Educational Tours clean-up Lions Mosquito Coast Park
The Education First (EF) Educational Tours, with the assistance of Belize Diving Adventures, organized a clean-up activity at the Lions Mosquito Coast Park in Ambergris Caye on Wednesday, June 6th. The exercise was aimed to improve the conditions at the widely used park. The EF Educational Tours was spearheaded by Dr. Sonja Hollingsworth, who has served as both a middle school English teacher and professor at Colorado State University, Colorado, USA for the past 17 years. As a key element in the programming she has designed for students, she leads an international trip each summer focused on cultural interfacing, service/volunteer work, and outdoor adventure activities designed to help young students challenge themselves and learn more about the world.

Doctor Love: Miffed
Dear Doctor Love, My husband and I have recently finalized our divorce and we are polite and non-combative with each other for the sake of our children, ages fifteen and seventeen. We share custody, but the kids can go to either house whenever they want. We both attend their sports events and other functions, but I don’t want to socialize with him if I can help it because the marriage ended when he cheated on me.

Misc Belizean Sources

U k’iinil Yuumo’ob Belize(Father's Day Belize)
Ki'imak óolal ti' tuláakal Yuumo'ob ( congratulations to all the fathers ) "And here is the true father: it is the root and principle of the lineage of men. Good is your heart, receives things, is compassionate and cares. He is the precision, the support, with his hands protects. It breeds and educates children, admonishes and teaches them to live, puts before them a large mirror pierced on both sides, a thick torch that does not smoke. " Teachings of Ce Ácatl Topiltzin Quetzalcóatl(Kukulkan)

The Reporter

PUP’s Paul Thompson new Albert division standard bearer
People’s United Party (PUP) senator Paul Thompson is the party’s new standard bearer for the Albert constituency, following the results of a convention held today at the Anglican Cathedral College (ACC) compound in Belize city. Thompson received 576 votes and his opponent, fellow senator Valerie Woods received 339 votes. A total of 938 ballots were cast. Of the total, 20 were spoiled and 3 were rejected. Thompson is now set to challenge incumbent area representative, United Democratic Party (UDP) minister Tracy Panton.

Senators Valeries Woods and Paul Thompson contest for Albert division
People’s United Party (PUP) senators, Valerie Woods and Paul Thompson, are contesting a convention to become the party’s standard bearer for the party in the upcoming 2020 general elections. The convention is being held today at the Anglican Cathedral College (ACC) compound in Belize city. Polls opened at 9:00 a.m. and will close at 4:00 p.m. The race leading up to the convention was heated, with senator Woods running an ad which featured party Deputy Leader Cordel Hyde singing Woods’ praises. Hyde, later publicly commented that the recording was from before he knew Woods would be contesting, then he publicly threw his support behind Thompson in the Albert division.

Breaking Belize News

5.6 mag Earthquake shakes Guatemala
The United States Geological Survey recorded a 5.6 magnitude Earthquake that shook Guatemala around 8:30 tonight. The tremor struck at a depth of 62 miles. It was located about 67 kilometers southwest of Guatemala City. […]

1 dead; 2 injured in traffic accident in Benque
Police are investigating a road traffic accident that claimed the life of a woman and left two other people injured today. According to police reports, around 12:16 pm, Benque Viejo police responded to a traffic accident between mile 71 and 72 on the George Price highway. Police investigations revealed that Neidy Noeli Cifuentes ,27, was driving towards Benque Viejo when she lost control causing the vehicle to flip several times. […]

Guatemala thanks Belize for generous donation
Today, the Embassy of Guatemala in Belize issued a release expressing its sincerest gratitude to the Government and people of Belize for their generous donations toward the victims whose lives were affected by Fuego Volcano that erupted early this month. The Embassy also thanked the Belize Red Cross and the Belizean media. […]

Paul Thompson wins PUP Albert Convention
Paul Thompson was today victorious in the PUP’s convention for the Albert Constituency. Thompson was challenged by newcomer Valerie Woods. In the end, the final figure was 576 to 339 in favor of Thompson. […]

Police investigating house fire in Belize City
Police are investigating a fire that destroyed a house in Belize City yesterday. Alicia Usher,32, reported to police that around 5:40 pm she was alerted that her home on Freedom Street was on fire. When Usher made checks, she saw that her room was already engulfed in flames. […]

Woods and Thompson battle for the Albert constituency post today
Today, two senators from the Opposition People’s United Party (PUP) are contesting the standard bearer post for the Albert’s Division in Belize City. Senators Valerie Woods and Paul Thompson are the two candidates contesting the post, and along with their supporters, they have been involved in a social media war where Woods camp had accused members of Thompson’s team of bullying and discouraging her to step down from contesting the post. […]

Man dies after being struck by lightning
A resident of Shipyard village in Orange Walk was struck by lightning yesterday morning. Isac Weibe reported to police that around 10:40 am, his brother Jacob Weibe,22, was working on a barbed wire fence under the rain when he was stroke by lightning. […]

International Sources

10 Instagram-Worthy Seaside Towns to Visit This Summer
While we don’t recommend traveling just for the Instagram, you could do worse for a souvenir than epic vacay pictures with triple-digit likes. And with the weather heating up, there’s no travel destination better than those along the water. From the Sea of Japan to the coastal islands of Belize, here are the most Instagram-worthy seaside towns to visit this summer for all the moments you’ll want to share to get the most likes ever. 3. Caye Caulker, Belize: Caye Caulker offers endless photo ops for an island that’s only five miles long. Spend an afternoon exploring the mangroves on the northern side of the island, or snorkel the Belize Barrier Reef, the largest in the Northern Hemisphere. For a more leisurely experience, head to the Split, the narrow channel dividing the island, and grab a drink at the Lazy Lizard. End the day with a sunset sail and snap all those stunning pics.

Taiwan is still the Caribbean’s good friend in great standing
Taiwan or the Democratic Republic of China (ROC) — not to be confused with the mainland, Communist People’s Republic of China (PROC) — is still a great friend to the Caribbean and wishes to remain that way for a long, long time. During a trip to Taiwan in mid-June, touring many different cities, sites and speaking with a wide cross section of citizens, business persons and public officials on the ground, we confirmed that Taiwan is still an independent and major economic powerhouse, despite the geo-political challenges with regard to global diplomatic recognition and increasing pressure to delegitimize them on the international scene by their far larger, neighbouring family country to the north.

Videos

June 17, 2018

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, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials

The San Pedro Sun

Rotary Club of Ambergris Caye donates supplies to Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic
Three pallets loaded with dozens of boxes containing medical supplies were handed over to the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II on Wednesday, June 13th, courtesy of the Rotary Club of Ambergris Caye. This is one of the many donations the island club has given to the medical center, which continues striving to provide quality care to island residents. The donation was made possible through a project headed by Rotarian Diane Tabony, which aims to continue supporting the island’s main medical center. The supplies consist of items needed for the day-to-day activities that will benefit most of the departments in the Clinic, including the Dental, Emergencies, and the laboratory. Rotarian Pete Davis was present when the supplies arrived from the mainland around 4PM. He said that the new items will definitely assist the medical staff at the Polyclinic to continue doing their job with fewer obstacles.

Wolfe’s Woofers: Magic Cenote
“Howard, it’s way too hot out here.” “Yes, dear,” the tourist’s husband said. “The mosquitos are terrible and I saw a big spider a while ago. I think we’ve already visited every Maya ruin in Belize. I want to go back to the hotel.” “Marge, we’re in a group. We can’t leave until the tour is finished.” Tico, our Belizean guide at the Santa Rita ruins, led us down a path into the jungle surrounding the ruin. We came to a spot with a huge hole in the ground. “This is very special place,” he told us. “This is a cenote—an underground pool of water.”

SPRCS is a top performing school in the 2018 PSE
After Standard Six students sat through two days of intense Primary School Examinations (PSE), the Ministry of Education (MOE) released results on Thursday, June 8th. This year, a total of 7,271 Standard Six students sat the PSE countrywide on March 18th and May 4th, testing their knowledge in the four major subjects of Mathematics, English, Science, and Social Studies. Topping the country with 384 out of 400 total points was Hummingbird Elementary Haley Thurton from Belize District. With 12 out of the top 25 scorers, the Belize District outperformed the remaining five districts. Among the top performers was islander Bryan Joan Roca, a student at San Pedro Roman Catholic School (SPRCS), who scored 368 total points out of 400, landing him in the #14 spot countrywide. Orange Walk had five top performers, Toledo and Cayo each had three and Corozal had two.

Misc Belizean Sources

Accident between mile 8 and 9 on the George Price Highway

Galen University students on Caye Caulker
The CCVC is excited to be hosting for the second time, Galen University Students studying Sustainable Development & Environmental Problems. They will also learn about the History of Caye Caulker. A big thank you to Mr. Edwardo Reyes Sr. for narrating his very own narrative on the History of Caye Caulker.

Plane crashes on the banks of the RÍO HONDO. Another suspected drug plane?
On June 13th Hora Noticia from the state of Quintana Roo reported that a suspected drug plane crashed within miles of the town of Ingenio Álvaro Obregon, there are talks of fatalities but unconfirmed. Mexican authorities have been silent on the incident, because it is presumed to be a shipment of cocaine. The federal and military authorities of Quintana Roo and the state of Campeche, both have deployed a strong operative in the town of Ingenio Álvaro Obregón, where the plane crash was reported, as it encountered bad weather conditions - Fuente: Hora Noticia. Around the sametime, our local media Belize Breaking News reported the following:- "Last night, BBN received numerous reports of a plane flying low around 8:00 p.m. in the Corozal district. According to reports, the plane was flying at a low height over Xaibe and Calcutta going toward the direction of Patchakan village.

University of Belize grads
We are proud of your accomplishments! Shout out to ALL our Embassy interns who graduated today! Congratulations!!!

Congratulations to all University of Belize graduates!

Made in Belize Expo at the National Agriculture & Trade Show Grounds in Belmopan
Great products, food and entrepreneurs.

The Reporter

Farmer killed by lightning in Shipyard
A Mennonite farmer of Camp Nine in Shipyard village, Orange Walk was struck by lightning during a thunderstorm in a freak accident on Saturday and was killed. According to police, Jacob Weibe, 22, was mending a barbed wire fence in the rain when he was struck by lightning. When his brother went to check on him, he was unresponsive Weibe was transported to the Northern Regional Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.

Belize donates $100,000 to Guatemala volcano victims
The government of Belize is making a $100,000 donation to the government of Guatemala to assist with ongoing relief efforts to aid victims affected by the deadly eruption of Volcan Del Fuego earlier this month, which killed and displaced hundreds of people. The government of Belize said it was heartened and inspired by the outpour of sympathy and support displayed by Belizeans, non-governmental and faith based groups in responding swiftly to send relief supplies, building materials and funds to Guatemala to assist those affected by the volcano’s eruption.

Jeweler arrested for killing neighbor
Belize city jeweler, Manuel Pacheco, has been arrested for the shocking Thursday evening murder of businessman Jose Villanueva, 50, on East Collet canal near the corner of the pound yard bridge. Pacheco reportedly shot Villanueva, his neighbor with whom he’d had an ongoing dispute with. Pacheco and Villanueva, whose jewelry and mechanic shops sit beside one another, were engaged in an argument that afternoon. Pacheco then reportedly went for a gun and shot Villanueva from over the fence while Villanueva stood in his yard.

Breaking Belize News

South Cebada conservation post inaugurated
On Thursday, June 14, 2018, The Government of Belize inaugurated the South Cebada Conservation Post in the Chiquibul National Park. The post was constructed under the Chiquibul Forest Investment Initiative (CFII). […]

Former Mayor, Joseph Sampson, pulls out of PUP Dangriga convention
Yesterday we reported that the People’s United Party (PUP) had allowed six candidates to contest its convention in Dangriga next Sunday. Well, today we have received reports that that number has been cut to five. […]

76-year-old man robbed at gunpoint in Toledo
Police are investigating a burglary that occurred on Thursday. According to reports, Tom Mckinney, 76, a Belizean Missionary of Mile 15, San Antonio Road, Toledo District reported to authorities that on Thursday, June 14, 2018, about 1:30 a.m., while asleep, he was awakened by his dogs barking. […]

Orange Walk couple busted with weed
On Friday morning around 5:35, Orange Walk Police conducted a search at the residence of Robert Bruce Johnston, 28, on Rio Bravo Street in Orange Walk Town. […]

Blogs

Tropic Air & Copa Airlines Announce Agreement; Opposing Views About International Airport on Ambergris Caye
Friday morning I attended a morning press conference in San Pedro where Belize’s Tropic Air announced an alliance with Copa Airlines. Jules Vasquez of Channel 7 news was there to ask Minister Heredia about the proposed international airport on North Ambergris Caye – Basil Jones International Airport. While many speculate that this idea is some sort of government boondoggle – there has been a recent article in a Quintana Roo newspaper suggesting that it will happen.

International Sources

Lobster parties in San Pedro, Belize!
Lobster Season celebration continues in San Pedro today with events at Pirate's Not-So-Secret Beach Bar & Grill during the day and at Estel's Dine By the Sea tonight! Below are some images from the event held at El Divino Restaurant last night! The celebration continues tomorrow north of San Pedro Town! During the day at the The Dive Bar and at night by the Pirates Treasure Restaurant and Bar!

Videos

June 16, 2018

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, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials

The San Pedro Sun

San Pedro BTIA chapter brings people together ‘For the Love of San Pedro’
As crime continues to concern the business community on Ambergris Caye, the need to find a viable solution to its escalation has become a top priority. To start finding solutions, the Belize Tourism Industry Association San Pedro chapter (SP BTIA) held a public meeting with stakeholders on Thursday, June 7th at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium. A group of dynamic citizens and speakers discussed the issue and shared their ideas towards the best way of dealing with the alarming situation threatening the island’s stability. The event which started shortly after 6PM was well attended by citizens from all corners of the island. BTIA’s Executive Director John Burgos gave the welcome remarks informing the audience the purpose of the gathering, which sought to set actions in place and try to alleviate the crime situation.

17 students receive their S.P.A.C.E. diploma
17 proud students from San Pedro Adult Continuing Education (SPACE) finished their secondary education and were awarded their diplomas during the sixth Commencement Exercises held on Sunday, June 10th at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium. The graduating class of 2018 was honored before relatives and friends for achieving their goals of finishing high school. After the singing of the National Anthem, fellow graduate Michael Sosa delivered the Salutatorian remarks under the theme ‘A Lesson Learned in Time.’ He commended those who made an effort to encourage him and his classmates as it has led to their achievement.

Tropic Air and Copa Airlines announce interline agreement
Tropic Air and Copa today announced the commencement of an interline agreement that allows customers to purchase connecting flights on one ticket and receive boarding passes for all segments at their first check-in. Tropic serves 15 destinations from Belize’s Goldson International Airport which Copa serves nonstop from its home at Panama’s Hub of the Americas.

Still no official report on deadly fire that claimed four lives
Police and fire officials on the island continue investigating the cause of a tragic fire that sadly claimed the lives of four island residents early on Tuesday, June 12th in the Escalante Subdivision. The unprecedented tragedy started in a two-storey building where four out of six living on the upper flat perished in the blaze. 30-year-old Clara Bacab Nuñez and her son 14-year-old Allan Nuñez, daughter 6-year-old Mia Nuñez and niece 16-year-old Lidia Chelin Catzim Bacab were trapped in the inferno, while her husband David Nuñez and older son 16-year-old Samir Nuñez were able to get out badly injured. A family living downstairs, Tracy Cruz, managed to escape with her two young children after breaking the bathroom window.

Ambergris Today

What A Catch! - Lobster Season 2018 Officially Open
Lobster Season is Officially Open! Lobster Dip, Lobster Kebabs, Lobster Salad, Grilled Lobster, Lobster soup, Lobster, Lobster, Lobster!! The wait is finally over you can now endulge in all the delicous plates you can possibly dream of. Be sure to be a part of all the festivities taking place today starting at El Divino.

Tropic Air And Copa Airlines Partner To Make Flying Easier
Tropic Air and Copa today, June 15, 2018, announced the commencement of an interline agreement that allows customers to purchase connecting flights on one ticket and receive boarding passes for all segments at their first check-in. Tropic serves 15 destinations from Belize’s Goldson International Airport which Copa serves nonstop from its home at Panama’s Hub of the Americas.

Misc Belizean Sources

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Commends FCD after June 6th Incident in Chiquibul National Park
Following the apprehension of Guatemalan national Edras Geovani Cantoral Garcia, and Honduran national Elder Mauricio Diaz on June 6th, 2018 for environmentally-related offences, in the Chiquibul National Park, by a Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD) Ranger Team, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs convened a high level inter-ministerial group – comprised of the Ministry of National Security, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment and Sustainable Development – to ascertain the facts of the incident. The high-level group confirms the following: Last Wednesday, June 6th, 2018, at around 10: 30 a.m., a group of park rangers from the co-managing organization FCD intercepted five persons in possession of endangered game birds in the Chiquibul National Park, 4km within Belizean territory.

South Cebada Conservation Post in the Chiquibul National Park inaugurated
The South Cebada Conservation Post in the Chiquibul National Park was officially inaugurated on June 14th. The post was constructed under the Chiquibul Forest Investment Initiative (CFII). The CFII is the Government of Belize's financial strategy for the conservation and protection of our natural resources through strengthening enforcement and protection of the Chiquibul, Vaca and Columbia Forests.

Weekly Cadet Practice
On Thursday June 14th 2018, Police officers from Caye Caulker Police Sub_Station held their weekly Cadet practice. During the gathering, foot drills discipline were taught. Thereafter, cadets went indoors and played table games.

FCD Executive Director visits Queens Commonwealth Canopy (QCC) headquarters
The Chiquibul National Park is a forested area designated as a Queens Commonwealth Canopy (QCC) site in 2016. Today FCD’s Executive Director and its partner organization Maya 2020’s Director Chris Minty visited the QCC headquarters and met with QCC’s CEO Dr. Greg Munro and Nathan McKenzie in London to appraise of the developments and challenges faced in this forest.

Art in the Park cancelled for June
Due to the slow moving wet weather system, June's edition of Art in the Park has been cancelled. We look forward to the next Art in the Park event on July 14th.

JOB VACANCY IN COROZAL
Experience female cook needed at the WOOD HOUSE RESTAURANT located on Miami Beach. Call 636-0209.

DO NOT BURDEN YOUR POCKETS WITH CLASSROOM EXPENSES
"DO NOT BURDEN YOUR POCKETS WITH CLASSROOM EXPENSES" - Teachers Will No Longer Require The Practice Of Taking Money From Their Pockets Or To Fundraise To Enhance Their Classroom And To Produce Teaching Aids For Their Lessons! In a memorandum dated June 13th, 2018 the Belize National Teacher's Union states, "This correspondence serves as notification to our members that a final consensus has been achieved in reference to the issue of teachers spending large sums of monies, out of pocket, to enhance their classroom environment and to produce teaching aids for their lessons. After countrywide consultations, majority of you agreed that our teachers are much aggrieved by Management's continued disregard for Rule32(2) of the Education Amendment Rules of 2012 which details the responsibilities of Management, and specifically subsection (b) which states "the provision and maintenance of furniture, equipment, and materials (are) sufficient for the number of students there enrolled."

San Antonio United Pentecostal School culture day activities
The Institute of Archaeology along with the Institute for Social & Cultural Research are present at the San Antonio United Pentecostal School for their annual culture day activities

World Oceans Day Ceremony 2018
As part of national activities commemorating World Oceans Day 2018, Oceana in Belize and the Belize Coalition to Save Our Natural Heritage officially recognized the Government and people of Belize for their collective leadership in establishing the world’s first indefinite moratorium against offshore oil. The Ocean Champion award was formally presented to Rt. Hon. Prime Minister Dean Barrow during ceremonies in Belize City on Saturday, June 9th, 2018.

Belize Makes Contribution to Guatemala for Volcan Fuego Relief Efforts
The Government of Belize has been heartened and inspired by the outpouring of sympathy and support displayed by Belizeans, non-governmental and faith-based groups in responding swiftly to send relief supplies, building material and funds to Guatemala to assist those affected by the eruption of Volcan Fuego. In solidarity with the people of Guatemala, the Government of Belize has decided to make a financial contribution of US$50,000 towards Guatemala’s relief efforts.

COROZAL CARNIVAL 2018 REGISTRATION BEGINS
Inviting all carnival groups who are interested in taking part in Carnival 2018. Please register your group before the June 22nd deadline. Contact Dilan @ 672-1995 or visit the Corozal Town Council. Prizes for Senior and Junior groups.

Father's Day Wrestling Mania in San Pedro!
It’s time to treat the Father’s for a fun filled night at the Wrestling Mania Show today. Tickets will be for sale at the Hon. Louis Sylvester Sports Complex at 1P.M! Gates open at 7P.M, Show starts at 8P.M! Get ur tickets!!!!

Cebada Conservation Post Inauguration
The Cebada Conservation Post is finished. Looking good. Protect the Chiquibul! More pictures: from Omar Figueroa. "Yesterday June 14th, 2018 PACT travelled deep into the Chiquibul Forest for the inauguration of the Cebada Conservation Post. The inauguration ceremony was organized by PACT, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment, Sustainable Development and Immigration (MAFFESDI), Ministry of National Security, Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD) and the Environmental Management Fund (EMF). The 20’ x 33’ conservation post was officially handed over by Hon. Dr. Omar Figueroa, Minister of State in the MAFFESDI and Hon. John Saldivar, Minister in the Ministry of National Security, Hon. Hugo Patt, Hon. Angel Campos and Hon. Frank Mena, several Government CEOs, Heads of Department, and personnel from the Forest Department, Belize Defence Force, Belize Police Department, FCD, PACT and the media. The CP will now be able to permanently accommodate a multi-agency enforcement team of twelve (12). Among its many features, it includes ample sleeping quarters, a water catchment system and an off-grid solar system to generate electricity for the CP.

Channel 7

Kill Thy Neighbor?
Last night, our headline story was the late breaking news of one man who was shot and killed by his neighbor on East Collet Canal, near to the Pound Yard Bridge. Well tonight, we can report that the victim is 50 year-old Jose Villanueva, and the man who police have detained for his shooting death is 57 year-old Manuel Pacheco, the well-known Jeweler who has his business place set up right next door. So, what happened, and why did it end up with 1 neighbor dead, and the other facing a possible murder charge? Well, our news team has been investigating, and Daniel Ortiz found out that the two had a long history of disputes:

Local Carrier Raises Airfares in Response to Fuel Prices
Fuel Prices are sky high and everyone's feeling the pinch, from households to commercial transport outfits. And, now, Belize's biggest airline, Tropic Air says it has to do something about it. Today, President John Greif told us Tropic's fares are going to increase with a fuel surcharge:... John Greif, President Tropic Air: "We have to put on sur charges soon as early as two weeks from now. We had an excellent year last year we had a 2% profit margin for all the capital investment we have, it just don't make any sense, so we can't stand any more increase in fuel prices. We don't have any choices."

Was San Pedro Fire Tragedy Preventable?
Could the four who perished in the San Pedro house fire have been saved if proper standards were in place? First, the house had only one working entrance and exit; second, the area had no fire hydrants. Eventually the Fire truck had to draw water from a pool, while a power washer from a nearby hotel helped control the flames. So was it a preventable tragedy? We spoke to the 4 term area representative about it:...

San Pedro Community Comes Together For Victims
Of course, to get working hydrants, San Pedro would probably first have to solve a ballooning water shortage problem. So that's probably not going to happen anytime soon. But, in the interim, they have lots of goodwill to get by on. Jules Vasquez saw today how the island is coming together to help the fire victims:... Jules Vasquez reporting: The dollar drive on Middle Street outside Reef Radio in San Pedro seemed to be doing especially well today.

Bail For Murderer Who Was Remanded For 7 Years +
Another accused murderer has gotten bail. Twenty-eight year old Mathew Moore who has been on remand from March of 2011, was offered a bail of $25,000 today. His attorney Oscar Selgado, successfully argued that he should be granted bail because his right to a fair trial within a reasonable time has been breached. Mathew Moore is charged with the murder of 29 year old Andrew Moses who was shot and killed in March of 2011. He was walking on Kraal road when his assailant shot him in his chest, abdomen and leg.

“Juniour” Says News Lands Minister is “Colleague Friendly”
And now for some more perspective on the unexpected ascent of Hugo Patt. The Two term representative from Corozal North now controls the second most powerful portfolio in Government - which is Natural Resources. For the past few days, we've been canvassing his colleagues who support his new portfolio assignment. Manuel Junior Heredia is one of them. We asked the 4 term rep if he would have wanted the portfolio for himself:...

Copa and Tropic Team Up
We met Heredia at a press briefing this morning in San Pedro Town. Tropic Air and Latin American powerhouse Copa Airlines have signed what's called an "interline agreement". It allows customers to purchase connecting flights on a single ticket, from, let's say, a South American city all the way to Placencia or San Pedro. Tropic Air and Copa reps explained it today at the Sunbreeze Hotel:... Christopher Didier- VP, Global Sales, COPA: "What this partnership gives us between Tropic and COPA is the ability for the costumer to book directly with his travel agency a domestic destination in Belize, not only Belize International Airport. Now, travel agencies will be able to book from any of the COPA destinations, in let's say here in San Pedro SPR, iata codes, so they will be able to fly from any COPA destination into San Pedro with a single process and it will be a single ticket."

Tropic Air Boss Says Basil Jones Airport Project Will “Never Happen”
And the busiest route for Tropic and Maya Island is from PGIA to San Pedro. But, if the Basil Jones Airport project on northern Ambergris Caye does go through - would it cut off the main source of revenue for Belize's local airlines? We got input from both sides:... Jules Vasquez- Reporter: "If a Basil Jones International Airport is built, then all of this goes to nothing because COPA could fly directly into the International Airport there. I am saying that, how do you all manage these competing interests, when clearly an international airport at Basil Jones would work against Tropic and Maya?" Hon. Manuel Heredia Junior- Minister of Tourism: "Definitely not Jules, under the present agreement with PGIA, any existing airline that is flying cannot divert to any other airport in Belize. This airport that we are doing is to one, have European charters coming in to Belize, to have private aircraft and then later on we will see if there are possibilities of new destinations..."

Sans San Pedro To PGIA Route, Air Infrastructure Network Would Collapse
The other issue with the proposal for a new international airport on Northern Ambergris Caye is that it could severely cut into one of the main routes for local carriers. This, in turn, could undermine the entire domestic air transport infrastructure. If it sounds a bit highfalutin, Grief broke it down into dollars and sense:... John Greif III, President Tropic Air: "The only two truly profitable airplane routes in Belize are Goldson to Placencia and Goldson to San Pedro. And Goldson to San Pedro is three or four times the volume of Placencia. Placencia adds a little more because it's a little more expensive per mile. But without those lengths, there is no more San Pedro to Corozal, there is no more Belize Municipal to PG, there is no more...any of the other domestic flights disappear. The backbone of Belizean aviation is essentially San Pedro to International. If that goes, so goes the industry."

Belize Helps Guatemala
Relief efforts continue in Guatemala after the Volcan de Fuego erupted on June 3rd - killing at least 110 people, while several are still missing. But there is hope for the survivors. As we told you, the Guatemalan Government has asked for assistance with supplies and equipment. Several countries including Belize and humanitarian organizations have answered their call. In a release sent out today by the Guatemalan Embassy, the Guatemalan Government thanks the Government and people of Belize for reaching out in this time of great need. Quote, "The Embassy of Guatemala would like to…highlight and re-iterate its heartfelt gratitude and appreciation ..."

Foreign Affairs Praises FCD For restraint In Fraught Border Encounter
But while there is fraternity in the face of a disaster, there also has to be vigilance to protect the borderline. 8 days ago, we told you how an FCD ranger team detained 2 Guatemalan poachers who were hunting wild birds in the Chiquibul National Park. The rangers retrieved a .22 rifle, 3 dead currasows, 1 dead crested guan, and rescued 2 scarlet macaw chicks. But more than that, they defused a dangerous situation without incident or loss of life. One of the poachers pointed the 22 rifle at them before abandoning the gun. They did everything right, and tonight the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is publicly commending them for their swift but restrained actions.

Defence Minister Says Public Education Begins
So while the ongoing Belize Guatemala dispute is playing out on the ground, all that will influence the outcome of Belize's ICJ referendum. As you know, Guatemala voted yes to the ICJ in their referendum. So, to ensure that Belizeans are properly informed to make their decision on Wednesday, April 10th, 2019, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has starting planning its countrywide education campaign. National Security Minister John Saldivar told us more. "They have already began their consultations nationwide, I mean the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. I can tell you that earlier, this is Thursday, earlier this week we had a workshop with our military personnel, we are discussing the issue, we are discussing the national security options that I have been advised to say would come out of the ICJ vote whether it is yes or no and we intend to travel the country as military and as national security personnel to talk with Belizeans on what are our perspectives on the ICJ issue."

Mediation Over Violence
Restore Belize and the Youth and Community Transformation Project today concluded a week long training on conflict mediation. 19 persons including social workers, police and youth officers participated. We dropped by to find out how mediation can reduce violence. Sandra Diaz - Cadle, Training Facilitator: "One of the 3 main tools that we focused on this week is one the whole effective communication, active listening, inquiry skills, how can they get information and learn to understand, move disputants from position to interest without mediators imposing their values, without mediators getting frustrated with the process and lastly the mediator as a facilitator."

Another Gun In a Church Yard
Police continue to remove some high powered pistols off the streets - and yesterday, one was found in a church yard. Officers from Precinct 1 acted on information and searched the grounds of the Baptist church on West Street. The cops found a 9mm Glock pistol and holster with 13 live rounds. The gun will be sent to the lab for further testing because it is suspected to have been stolen in a robbery.

Cane Farmers Applaud Santander
The cane farmers associations in the north are rarely in agreement with the Government of Belize - and most of the time, are blasting them for one thing or the other. But, not tonight. After a stern decision against Santander Sugar by Government's EPZ Committee, the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers association is patting GOB on the back. As we told you last night, the EPZ committee decided that Santander will NOT get a waiver to sell sugar locally, and the company will face the maximum fine for selling sugar without a permit. The President of the BSCFA told CTV-3 in Orange Walk yesterday it sounds good to him:..

European Union Celebrates Accompanying Measures
Of course, they did that because the world market for sugar has collapsed and sugar producers need to find new markets. So, right now, the stakeholders within the Belize Sugar industry are trying to navigate the treacherous waters that is the world market, where competition is stiff, and the supply of sugar is in overabundance. But, to help Belize make the transition where it can properly compete with other sugar producing countries, the European Union has invested 77 million Euros - or almost 180 million Belize dollars - in the north over the course of 12 years.

Channel 5

Businessman Jose Villanueva is Executed by His Neighbor, Jeweler Manuel Pacheco
Just before news time on Thursday, shots rang out on East Collect Canal near the Pound Yard Bridge which resulted in the murder of a mechanic. Several shots were fired [...]

Area Rep Manuel Heredia Jr. Expresses Shock and Condolences After Deadly San Pedro Fire
The worst fire tragedy in San Pedro occurred early on the morning of June twelfth in the Escalante Subdivision on the island where four persons were killed in the blaze. [...]

Minister Heredia Will Lobby for Portable Water on La Isla Bonita
The fire has sparked outrage by residents who say that the tragic death of the family could have been averted if appropriate fire-fighting equipment was available on the prime tourism [...]

NEMO and Private Citizens Offer Assistance to Fire Victim’s
Samir Nunez and his father David survived the inferno since they were able to get out of the burning building.  While the sixteen-year-old is at home with his relatives, David [...]

News Five Treks to South Cebada in the Chiquibul Forest
South Cebada is one of the most remote areas of the Chiquibul National Park. While it is deep inside the protected area and difficult to reach, it is also located [...]

Government Commends the Actions of FCD in Arresting Guatemalan Poachers
As you heard, manning the Chiquibul National Park poses a huge challenge to the relevant agencies, including Friends for Conservation and Development.  FCD rangers on June sixth spotted a group [...]

G.O.B. to Donate $100,000 to Guatemala for Volcano Relief
Guatemala was recently hit by the Volcan de Fuego that has caused the deaths of as many as one hundred and fourteen persons and untold damages to property and infrastructure. [...]

Accused Murderer Mathew Moore is Granted Bail after Years of Pretrial Detention
Twenty-seven-year-old Mathew Moore, accused of murder, was today granted bail. Moore, who has been behind bars waiting for trial since March 2011, was given bail in the sum of twenty-five [...]

Court of Appeal Reserves Decision in the Case of Gareth Hemmans Junior
The Court of Appeal today heard the case of thirty-two-year-old Gareth Hemmans Junior, who is convicted of attempted murder and is serving an eight-year sentence handed down in October of [...]

Tourism Minister Weighs in on Carla Barnett’s Departure from Ministry of Lands…
From assisting affected fire victims in the San Pedro fire to politics….the Belize Rural South area rep and Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Manuel Heredia Junior, was also quizzed [...]

…But What does He Think About Her Replace at Lands Department?
Moving on from the exit of the senator, Manuel Heredia Junior went on to throw his support behind elected cabinet colleague Hugo Patt, saying that Patt’s integrity and political will [...]

100 Public Officers Recognized for Exemplary Service
The Ministry of the Public Service recognized dozens of outstanding public officers during an awards ceremony this evening in Belize City.  Policemen, firemen, and other employees from across various government [...]

Civic Center is Green lighted for Use as EOC at Disaster Time
With the hurricane season now underway, concerns about the use of the new Civic Center as the Emergency Operation Center for CEMO have been put to rest.  Late on Thursday, [...]

Tropic Air Joins Forces with Copa Airlines for Flights to South America
COPA airlines and Tropic Air have signed off an agreement that will potentially increase the number of visitors to Belize. COPA already has two weekly flights to Belize and will [...]

Another Airport on Ambergris Caye?
On Thursday, the Diario de Quintana Roo in Chetumal quoted the Honorary Consulate of Belize in Quintana Roo, saying that the construction of the international airport in San Pedro has [...]

More Boots on the Ground in Otoxha to Ward of Guatemalan Poachers
There has been an increase in military presence near the outskirts of Otoxha Village, in an area adjacent to the Guatemalan border.  The need for B.D.F. patrols to be deployed [...]

Mediation and Conflict Resolution Among Vulnerable Groups
The Youth and Community Transformation Project (YCT) and RESTORE Belize partnered to train nineteen service providers in conflict mediation. The social workers, community rehabilitation officers, police officers, and youth workers [...]

LOVE FM

Belize City businessman murdered
Belize City jeweler, Manuel Pacheco, is in police custody for the late Thursday evening murder of businessman Jose Villanueva. Villanueva was fatally shot yesterday evening at his workplace on Collet Canal. Police believe that the shooter is Pacheco, who owns a jewelry store located next to Villanueva’s workplace. Hipolito Novelo found out more from Villanueva’s …

EU & Belize celebrate achievements under AMS
In 2006 the European Union implemented the “Accompanying Measures for Sugar” (AMS) project, to buffer the effects of Belize’s sugar losing its preferential treatment in the European market and to increase its competitiveness after the preferential treatment came to an end. Through this project, the European Union committed 72 million euros in grants to the …

BNTU: school preparation is not teachers responsibility
Often times, teachers take out a substantial amount of money out of their pockets to prepare their classes for the beginning of the school year, which is in September. This week Belize National Teachers Union, BNTU sent out a memorandum to teachers advising them not to continue to do so. Love News spoke to Elena …

BNTU shares its view on PSE’s results
Last week, the PSE results were released and the overall picture painted was not a very good one as more than half of the students who sat the exams scored less than satisfactory in all four subject areas. Love News asked Elena Smith, President of the Belize National Teachers Union, (BNTU) whether the results of …

Learning to settle conflicts
A five day conflict mediation training ended today in Belize City. The Youth and Community Transformation Project and RESTORE Belize collaborated to train nineteen service providers in conflict mediation. Participants included police officers, social workers and youth workers among others. Hipolito Novelo has the story. Hipolito Novelo: Resolving disputes is no easy task especially if …

The importance of recognizing public service officers
Public service officers who have served for more than thirty years were recognized today. The ceremony was held in Belize City as part of a week of activities leading up to Public Service Day on June 23. The theme this year is “The Belize Public Service – Moving towards the future with Innovation, Dedication, and …

GOB backs up FCD’s report
Nine days ago we told you about the two poachers who were caught inside the Chiquibul Forest by FCD rangers. The men, Guatemalan national Edras Garcia, and Honduran national Elder Diaz had killed four wild birds, three curassows and one Crested Guan, and had captured two scarlet macaw chicks. Today the Ministry of Foreign Affairs …

Amandala

Businessman kills his next-door businessman neighbor
he evening rush hour was still underway, shortly before 6:00 p.m., when gunfire erupted on Collet Canal. When the gunfire stopped, the lives of two middle-aged businessmen were destroyed forever. One man lay dead in a pool of his own blood in his yard, while his next-door neighbor was in handcuffs, the beginning of his entry into the criminal justice system. He will join a long line of accused murderers on remand at the Belize Central Prison. No one knows what could have triggered the violent outburst of jeweler Manuel Pacheco, who doesn’t live at the location but has a business there, but witnesses said he fired a number of shots at his next-door neighbor, Jose Villanueva, a car dealer and businessman who owned a small shop on Cemetery Road.

Tragedy: 4 persons perish in house fire in San Pedro
Two houses in the Escalante subdivision in San Pedro Town were gutted by a fire that occurred around 2:45 on Tuesday morning. The fire also claimed the lives of four persons, three of whom were children. According to Orin Smith, Station Manager of the Fire Department, the department’s branch in San Pedro received a call around 3:30 a.m. on Tuesday, 45 minutes after the fire had started. By the time they arrived at the scene of the fire, the two homes were already engulfed in flames, which, due to the severe winds, had spread to a third building. A family of 4 and a family of 2 living in the two apartments in the concrete lower flat of the two-storey house were able to escape, but the wooden steps leading up to the upper flat caught fire, trapping Allan Nunez, a 14-year-old first form student at San Pedro High School; his mother, 36-year-old Clarita Bacab; his sister, 6-year-old Joycelyn Cal, and his cousin, 15-year-old Sherly Bacab, who all perished in the fire. Sherly had recently begun staying with her aunt and uncle.

PM Barrow reshuffles Cabinet
Prime Minister Dean Barrow announced via a government press release today that he has once again shuffled his Cabinet and re-assigned control over the the Ministry of Natural Resources, once described by him as “a hotbed of corruption,” when that portfolio was held by the Hon. Gaspar Vega, area representative for Orange Walk North, who resigned from Cabinet amidst massive corruption scandals. Today’s Cabinet reshuffle comes ahead of the Prime Minister’s own announced schedule for demitting office because of health problems, and his party’s election of a new leader to prepare for the general elections scheduled for 2020.

Brazen robber met his match in brave cop
A brazen robbery attempt was stopped by a brave policeman when a robber tried to rob a man who had just entered his vehicle on King Street at about 10:00 this morning. A security camera mounted from a business on King Street showed the robber walking hurriedly towards the driver’s side of the vehicle, because the driver had just entered his vehicle. The camera showed the robber yanking open the door and trying to pull the driver out of the vehicle. His victim, however, put up a struggle.

Dwayne Davis, 37, convicted of manslaughter for the death of Dr. Ivan Garcia, gets new sentence date
Basketball player Dwayne Davis, 37, who was charged with the murder of Dr. Ivan Garcia, had pleaded guilty to manslaughter on May 24 and he was to be sentenced today, Thursday. But after hearing pleas for mitigation on Davis’ behalf, Justice Adolph Lucas deferred the sentencing until Wednesday, June 20. Davis, in his plea, said he is neither gay nor bisexual, and Dr. Garcia was not his lover. He said he was simply trying to defend himself by fending off the sexual advances of Dr. Garcia. He pleaded with Justice Lucas for leniency and said that any consideration in that regard would be highly appreciated.

Maud Williams High School and Wesley College celebrate graduates
In Tuesday’s Amandala, we reported on the graduations of St. Catherine Academy, St. John’s College, and Edward P. Yorke High School, which all occurred in the first weekend in June. Just a few days later, Maud Williams High School held their graduation on Wednesday, June 6. Maud Williams’ top three students were Krisilia Torres, Unique Dominguez, and Keandra Martin. There were 32 graduates and the theme for their graduation was “Visionaries on a responsible mission.”

Orange Walk Belikin 8-Ball Billiards Tournament 2018
On Thursday, June 7, Nostalgia was the host of game #7 of the Orange Walk Billiards Association (OWBA) 21st Annual Belikin 8-Ball Tournament; and Team Chatta’s introduced Black & White Assassins to a 5-0 defeat in their first game of the season. These victories came from David “Nick Knock” McLaughlin, Miguel and Jose Chatta, Javier Witz and Argel Perrera. On Friday, June 8, the undefeated Hideout went up against one of the favourite teams to take the garland this year, the upstart Team Darvis, playing out of Tijuana. At the end of the game, it was Team Hideout with a 4-1 win over Team Darvis, with victories from Rudolph Jacobs, Kenneth Dawson, Evan Williams and Leroy Jacobs; while Team Darvis’ only victory came from Abimael Godoy.

Primary school football – Belize City and Belize District finals at the MCC
In some hectic primary school football action over the past few days at the MCC Grounds, the Belize City primary schools female (F) and male (M) champions were decided yesterday; and today they joined the Belize Rural champion teams in competing for the Belize District championship at the MCC. Belize City Championship In Belize City semifinals action on Tuesday of this week, (F) St. Luke Methodist won in penalties, 3-1, over St. John Vianney, after drawing 0-0 in regulation; (F) St. Ignatius won, 3-2, in sudden death penalties, after drawing, 1-1, with Holy Redeemer in regulation; (M) Queen Square Anglican dropped Ephesus SDA, 2-1, in regulation; and (M) Unity Presbyterian also won in regulation, 2-0, over Ebenezer Methodist.

2nd week of Belikin 8-Ball Billiards Tournament in Corozal
The Belikin 8-Ball Tournament 2018 continued this past weekend in Corozal Town. On Thursday, it was two teams playing out of the same house, Raul’s Cool Spot, Elite 7 vs Haneen Shattaz, whereby Haneen Shataaz had no mercy over the youths of Elite 7, defeating them by a score of 4 to1. Friday night’s game saw the home team, K & C Shooters vs Elite 7, where the home team was crushed without mercy by the youths of Elite 7, who won by a score of 4 to 1.

Cricket update
Greetings from the Belize National Cricket Association (BNCA)! We have come to the close of the Sir Barry Bowen Harrison Parks 2018 Cricket Regular Competition. We now go into the tie-breaker games, playoffs and finals. The results of the matches played on June 9 & 10, are as follows: Western Eagles won over Rural Mix with a score of 60 to 59, with 8 spare wickets. For Western Eagles, R. Ferguson top scored with 14 runs, and T. Samuel took 4 wickets. For Rural Mix, Eldon Hendy top scored with 19 runs, and Conway Jones took 2 wickets.

Editorial: Bones to dogs
Through the years, elected officials in Belize have usually felt the need to treat the Kremandala businesses with a kind of disrespect. Constitutionally, Belize’s elected officials are at a higher place than the free press is, because they form the legal, empowered government of sovereign, independent Belize. The independence constitution of 1981 allows for a free press, but that is done in a generalized manner. Because radio in Belize did not become free until 1989, references to the “free press” in the colonial (1862-1964) and self-governing colony (1964-1981) history of British Honduras/Belize were talking only about the newspaper industry. To the best of our knowledge, the first newspaper in the colony which was not owned and controlled by the colonial oligarchy was The Belize Independent, which was being published by H. H. Cain and the Cain family around the time of the Ex-Servicemen’s uprising in 1919. This was also a time of Garveyism in Belize. Paul Cain, a member of the Cain family who is in his eighties, has told us that Isaiah Morter, Belize’s first native, black millionaire assisted the Cain family to acquire printing equipment back in the early part of the twentieth century.

From the Publisher
My column for today features a letter written to Amandala in response to, and commentary on, a publisher’s column the previous weekend. This was early February of 1989, and the publisher’s column in question had appeared in the February 3, 1989 issue of Amandala. (That column was reproduced in our mid-week edition this week, and appears elsewhere in this issue.) The letter which follows was written by the late Raymond Barrow and first appeared in our February 10, 1989 issue. Mr. Barrow was a paternal uncle of Belize’s Prime Minister. Mr. Raymond Barrow was a senior public officer who went to study law in England when he was already in his forties, I would say. He qualified as an attorney and was a senior member of the Holy Redeemer Credit Union (HRCU) board.

Suggestions for John Paul Junior College
Dear Editor: As a student of John Paul Junior College, and on behalf of the rest of the students, I am pleased to acknowledge the important work of the college. I am proud to be studying at this institution and enjoy learning every day. The teachers are very good and helpful and always eager to guide us. I am glad being part of this family; it has taught me many useful things. However, I think that this school is just starting and it already has many interesting things to display and share with the students, such as the love they share among each other and the religious activities.

The loss of language
Dear Editor, While I was passing by the Mount Carmel Primary School, I overheard a teacher speaking Spanish during a math class. My curiosity didn’t come from hearing Spanish but from having heard inadequate Spanish. It came to my mind how unprofessional teachers are becoming in teaching the Spanish language. It is good to inculcate some Spanish, but teachers are teaching the children incorrect Spanish.

Justin is angry
Dear Editor Amandala, I am angry! Our national pride as Belizeans is slowly eroding. Belize, just as any nation, has problems. The issue at hand is collective, yet the people affected do not know how to deal with them. It is our duty to fix that and educate others and instill in them national pride. Schools overlook history classes that provide vital information about our country and how we got here. Unfortunately most folks tend to focus on themselves and not the whole. We see these problems as affecting “them” and not “me/us”

Gwen Liz students enjoy Calabash Caye on ecology trip
Dear Editor, My 3A1 class from Gwen Liz High School went on the best educational trip ever to Calabash Caye at the Turneffe Atoll, from May 9th to 12th. This trip was basically to learn about marine ecology, conservation and climate change. We were also there to learn about dolphins, lionfish, plastic pollution and other environmental topics. MCCAP (Marine Conservation and Climate Change Adaptation Project) and Ecology Project International (EPI) sponsored this course. The love that EPI and MCCAP showed us, was wonderful because we felt welcome. Everyone was friendly. They all showed that they cared and wanted us to have a meaningful experience.

Nation papers
I’ve been reading about, and listening to, the discussion on re-registration and citizens from Guatemala who don’t qualify, if we follow Belize’s Constitution A lot of Belizeans in the north have roots in Mexico. Spain, when it had Mexico under her heel, claimed Belize. A lot of Belizeans in the west and south have roots in Guatemala and Honduras. As far as we know, Honduras hasn’t seriously pressed any claim on Belize. A faction in Guatemala insists on such a claim, and that forces us into a tough decision. We make the decision we make not because we love Guatemalan roots less than we love our Mexican and Honduran roots.

WHEN CONSCIOUS & LIBERATED MINDS MEET!
I’m reflecting on the moments in history in the Los Angeles Belizean Community when the former and late Belize Ambassador of Trade, the Caribbean and Africa, Brother Adalbert Tucker, used to come in from Africa and the United Nations in the 1980s and meet with us Belizean youth at the time, like Brother Nuri Akbar and myself, in some serious and educational discussions. In chatting with Brother Nuri Akbar on several occasions, we both became saddened many times when we remembered being in the presence of such a giant of a Belizean like Brother Bert in terms of knowledge, history and consciousness, and how it all stopped and ended one day.

The Ineffective Renunciation of Guatemalan Citizenship: The Big Picture
The national identity of Belize is a complex, multifaceted construct that is continuously evolving. With a history amalgamated from numerous other nations and cultures, there are inevitably varied interpretations of what this identity is. Such contesting perceptions of Belizean identity have largely contributed to diverging policies on citizenship. On the one hand, at the heights of the immigration boom in the early 80s, we allowed unchecked, willful and wanton immigration, without considering the consequences of quick demographic changes on various aspects of life and society, and on the other hand, we stripped away the citizenship of some born Belizeans who became citizens of other countries.

Depositors asking court to close down Choice Bank
On Thursday, June 7, the Central Bank of Belize issued a press release announcing that it had placed the international offshore bank, Choice Bank Limited, under enhanced supervision due to the bank’s liquidity problems. On that same day, however, a fixed date claim was filed at the Supreme Court Registry by some of the bank’s depositors. The claimants in the lawsuit are seeking relief from the court to close down Choice Bank. The court document stated, “The Claimants seek the following orders pursuant to Section 105 of the International Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Substantive Laws of Belize, read along with Section 131(a) of the Companies Act, Chapter 250 of the Substantive Laws of Belize and the inherent jurisdiction of the Court:

Export Processing Zone Committee says no to Santander Sugar
Today, Thursday, the Government Press Office issued a press release saying that based on its findings, there is no shortage of sugar in the domestic market and that the Export Processing Zone Committee (EPZC) had decided not to grant a waiver to the Spanish multinational company, Santander Sugar Limited, to sell sugar on the local market. Not only that: the EPZC had “decided to impose the maximum fine applicable under the EPZ Act” on Santander for “several violations” the company had committed.

Court of Appeal will decide on DPP’s appeal of Aracely Cahueque’s acquittal for abetment to commit murder
Yesterday, Tuesday, after a long delay, the Court of Appeal finally heard submissions from the applicant and the respondent in the case of Aracely Cahueque v The Queen. The panel of three judges who heard the submissions were the president of the Court of Appeal, Justice Manuel Sosa, and Justices Lennox Campbell and Madam Justice Minnet Hafiz-Bertram. The court indicated that it would hand down its ruling at a later date. Aracely Cahueque, a former Corozal beauty queen contestant, 22, at the time of the incident, was indicted on three counts of abetment to commit murder in relation to the murder of Raylene Dyer, 18, who was decapitated. Dyer’s body was never recovered and it is suspected that it was dumped into a river.

In the Court of Appeal, Corozal businessman Curtis Swasey and BTL battle over Mek Mi Rich
The Court of Appeal opened on Monday and the first case on its two-week calendar was the appeal of the Corozal businessman, Curtis Swasey, who won a claim in 2016 in the Supreme Court against Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL). Swasey claimed that BTL had pirated his lottery game show concept and shared the idea with Mek Mi Rich (MMR), a company jointly owned by Sanjay Hotchandani and Andre Vega, the son of former Deputy Prime Minister, Gaspar Vega. While Swasey has taken his case to the Court of Appeal and is seeking more than the $25,000 that the Supreme Court had awarded him, BTL has also filed an appeal against the Supreme Court judgment of Justice Courtenay Abel, hoping that the company could salvage its corporate image, which took a hit when it lost the case in the lower court.

The Reporter

San Ignacio teen raped
San Ignacio police have detained one man pending charges after he was found in a house alone with the minor, who reported that she was raped. According to police, on Wednesday cops visited a home in the Santa Cruz area of town on Mount Ebeneezer street after […]

Suspected drug plane spotted over northern Belize
Residents in the Corozal district, as well as local and Mexican news outlets, are reporting sightings of yet another suspected drug plane over northern Belize. According to reports, a low flying jet engine aircraft was spotted flying in close proximity of villages near the Rio Hondo River […]

Another minister of lands resigns
For the second time in a span of only two years, the Minister with responsibility for the Ministry of Natural Resources, which includes the Lands Department, a portfolio usually given to senior party officials, has abruptly resigned. On Tuesday, the office of the Prime Minister […]

Graduates and joblessness: what the stats say
An estimated 3,000 to 4,000 students will be making the transition in the coming weeks and months either to the world of work or to further education, and official labour force statistics suggests that they will be better off seeking higher education – after all, […]

It’s the heart more often than HIV
The world is embarking on a fast-track strategy to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030, according to the United Nations Secretary-General, who presented his report on the global response to HIV this week, but there is something that has proven to be far deadlier, in […]

Belize city schools dominate top 10 PSE scores
The Ministry of Education has officially released the results of the Primary School Examination, which was administered countrywide on March 18 and May 4, 2018, showing that Belize city based schools claimed six of the top 10 scores countrywide. A total of 7,271 candidates registered for the […]

Belize faces heavy rains, possible flash-flooding from approaching tropical wave
Countries in Central America, including Belize, Nicaragua to Honduras, Belize, Guatemala and southeastern Mexico, as well as the Cayman Islands, and Jamaica are likely to experience heavy rains, isolated flash flooding and mudslides this weekend as a surge of tropical moisture around a tropical wave […]

Guatemala-born population in Belize more than 18,000
Although there may be undocumented and undetected Guatemalans living in Belize, official estimates published over the last 5 years by the Statistical Institute of Belize put the figure at an average of about 18,000, with 58 percent living in the Cayo District (over 10,000), where […]

Kaj Expressions owner featured as entrepreneur of the month
Khadija Assales, a mother of two and owner of Kaj Expressions, a jewelry story which sells unique hand crafted pieces has been recognized by the US embassy in Belize as the Young Belizean Entrepreneur for the month of June. Assales was selected as an exemplery role model […]

“Lower gas prices right around the corner,” says GOB
“World oil prices are reducing and Belizeans can expect to see a decrease in pump prices with the next shipment which is due by the end of next week,” the government of Belize said this week. GOB made the statement at the end of a press release […]

Belize abstains on vote to suspend Venezuela from OAS
For the second time in as many years, Venezuela has successfully garnered majority vote at the Organization of American States (OAS) to hold its seat as a member state, this time against a notion by the United States to have her suspended. This came amid […]

Four persons die in fire in San Pedro
Four persons, including a woman, her teenage son, her daughter, and niece were burnt to death inside their house in the wee hours of Tuesday in the Escalante housing sub-division of San Pedro, about four miles away from the centre of the town. The incident […]

Belizean to serve four life sentences for killing own family in Florida
Brian Omar Hyde, 22, a Belizean man who was arrested in Florida, USA for the grizzley 2015 murders of his aunt, cousin, her unborn child and her boyfriend; was sentenced to serve four concurrent life sentences in a Florida prison. In April, a panel of judges who […]

Man charged for the death of Philmore King
Only two days after the fatal shooting of Philmore King, police formally arrested and charged one man for his murder. On Monday, 19-year-old Darnell Arnold, a construction worker of mile 16 and half, Hattieville, appeared before Chief Magistrate Sharon Fraser to answer to a single count of […]

Mother clarifies how 4-week-old baby got shot
To clarify rumors, speculation and misinformation, Tyreeka Welch spoke publicly to explain the circumstances which led to her four-week-old baby, Deshawn Dwehene, being shot to the back by his father with a pellet gun. According to Welch, contrary to news reports, her boyfriend Lincoln Dwehene did not […]

Editorial
FACEBOOK is no longer a safe platform for children to browse. Some insensitive people in Belize are using Facebook for advertising explicit pictures of adult sex toys – penises, dildos, vibrators and more. This kind of advertising is not allowed on TV. It should not be allowed on social media. […]

Business robberies surge in the city
Belize city police are combating a surge in robberies, which has seen several business establishments, some in the busy downtown area, held up at gun point, culminating with an attempted car theft on King street Thursday morning. Last week, four stores on Albert street were […]

Has GOB sold the Belize Fire Department headquarters?
There is something afoot with the land where the Belize Fire Department’s headquarters occupies on Cleghorn street near Atlantic Bank Ltd., on Freetown Road, and word to the Reporter newspaper is that the land has been sold to the bank. While we could not get […]

Petrocaribe stops rolling in the Caribbean
In the face of several issues, the Venezuelan government is indefinitely suspending the Petrocaribe arrangement to eight Caribbean countries, including Belize. Petróleos de Venezuela, S.A. (PDVSA), the state-owned oil company, said this week that the suspension comes from rapidly decreasing oil output, which is making […]

Nurse killed in accident on Philip Goldson highway
Leimi Ewan, a surgical nurse and mother of two, died on Wednesday evening when she was flung from her car in a serious accident near mile 33 on the Philip Goldson highway. According to police, just before 4:00 p.m., on Wednesday, Ewan, 43, was driving […]

Neighbour kills neighbour
An alleged long-standing feud between neighbours came to a violent conclusion this week, leaving one man dead and another, a prominent business owner, in police custody pending charges for murder. On Thursday, just before 6:00 p.m., the proprietor of Pacheco’s Jewelry Shop on East Collet […]

GOB rejects Santander waiver
After over a month of consideration, the Export Processing Zone Committee (EPZC) has rejected Santander Sugar Limited’s application for a waiver to sell some 5,000 tons of sugar and 2,000 of molases within Belize. The Committee issued a statement on Thursday, June 14, explaining that […]

Breaking Belize News

Jose Villanueva shot and killed by businessman after argument
Police are investigating the murder of a man from Santa Elena town yesterday. According to […]

Belize Government donates $100,000 to Guatemala
The Government of Belize today announced that it has been heartened and inspired by the outpouring […]

Made in Belize Expo to be held tomorrow
The Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry invites the public to its first ever, Made […]

More showers heading our way this weekend
The National Meteorological Service is reporting that more wet and unstable conditions will continue. Cloudy […]

Man shot while socializing in Corozal
Corozal police are investigating a shooting incident that occurred in Calcutta village. The incident occurred […]

San Pedro man reported missing
On Wednesday, June 13, Alexer Savala Amaya, 58, a Honduran vendor of San Pedro town […]

Foreign Affairs Ministry commends FCD for detention of illegal Guatemalan farmers
Today, Belize’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a release commending Friends for Conservation and Development […]

Following fatal fire in San Pedro, Cabinet to roll out portable water pumps
Earlier this week a fire in the Escalante Subdivision of San Pedro town claimed four lives […]

Are you ready for Caye Caulker Lobster Fest 2018?
Belizeans and tourists are heading over to Caye Caulker for the annual Lobster Festival on […]

San Pedro Lobster fest kicks off today!
The San Pedro Lobster festival kicks off today on La Isla Bonita. Many Belizeans have […]

DPM says CitCo being spiteful
Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Faber has condemned the Belize City Council for its decision to […]

13-year-old minor raped in Santa Elena Town
Police are investigating a rape incident in Santa Elena Town. According to police, on June […]

Ladyville teen reported missing
The family of Ladyville teen, Maria Teresita Obando is concerned since they haven’t seen or […]

Another suspected drug plane?
Last night, BBN received numerous reports of a plane flying low around 8:00 p.m. in […]

1 dead, 2 injured in fatal traffic accident on the Philip Goldson Highway
On Wednesday evening around 4:00, a fatal traffic accident in Rhaburn Ridge Village between miles 33 […]

PUP allows 6 candidates in convention race in Dangriga
The Opposition People’s United Party (PUP) has been criticized for many perceived shortcomings in its […]

Blogs

Valentine Rosado: How a boy that couldn’t swim grew up to save the sea
Biodiversity scientist, documentary filmmaker and photographer, sustainable development advocate, conservationist, dive instructor, husband, father and all-around heck-of-a-guy Guadalupe “Valentine” Rosado was born and raised in the Corozal Bay. He grew up wanting to become a medical doctor, got good school grades and especially enjoyed science. His parents had no formal education beyond primary school but were very hard working. “Every day they reminded me of how important it was to study, and they gave me all the positive influence I needed. I worked like a man from an early age (the meat shop, and fish trade business is seriously hard work) and it made me appreciate the importance of studying and pursuing a career. I believe that it made me a stronger person and prepared me to take up tasks without complaining or feeling that I am above what needs to be done,” he recalls.

7 Ambergris Caye Restaurants Secret Special Request Options
Once you have lived on Ambergris Caye awhile, you get to know which restaurants have off-menu special request options. Aside from the ones I already knew about, I decided to ask a few Restaurants I was betting had secret tasty treats if they were willing to share. One of my favorite special menu items from Hungry Grouper is a good example of that. Chef Argyle does not always have freshly grated coconut on hand for his absolutely fabulous coconut crusted pork chops, but when he does it’s always my number one choice. He also does a tasty apple slaw salad that is not on the menu.

International Sources

Workers Flee and Thieves Loot Venezuela’s Reeling Oil Giant
Thousands of workers are fleeing Venezuela’s state-owned oil company, abandoning once-coveted jobs made worthless by the worst inflation in the world. And now the hemorrhaging is threatening the nation’s chances of overcoming its long economic collapse. Desperate oil workers and criminals are also stripping the oil company of vital equipment, vehicles, pumps and copper wiring, carrying off whatever they can to make money. The double drain — of people and hardware — is further crippling a company that has been teetering for years yet remains the country’s most important source of income. The timing could not be worse for Venezuela’s increasingly authoritarian president, Nicolás Maduro, who was re-elected last month in a vote that has been widely condemned by leaders across the hemisphere. Prominent opposition politicians were either barred from competing in the election, imprisoned or in exile.

Fourteen CARICOM countries prepare projects to mobilize “green funds”
Fourteen countries of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) will design multiple projects to mobilize resources from international sources, which will allow them to improve the resilience and adaptation of their agriculture, food systems and rural communities to change climate. The projects will be possible thanks to a new fund created by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Mexican Agency for International Development Cooperation (AMEXCID). José Graziano da Silva, director general of FAO, and Luis Videgaray, secretary of foreign affairs of Mexico signed in Rome on Thursday the agreement that creates the fund, which will have an initial budget of US$500,000, contributed in equal parts (US$ 250,000 each).

Videos

June 15, 2018

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, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials

Ambergris Today

Belize Opens Border To Residents Of Chetumal Passport-F
The Government of Belize says they have opened the border for residents of the state of Quintana Roo, allowing Mexicans to enter the country without passports. Through its consulate office in Chetumal, the Government of Belize says the Belize Hotel Association began a campaign to promote its tourist attractions to increase the flow of Mexican visitors into the country. In a press conference, the Belizean Consul in Chetumal, Luis Montero Maldonado and the representative of the hoteliers Tessie Durán Tonaco, explained that a fundamental part of this exchange of visitors will be to grant greater access to the facilities and different tourist destinations in Belize.

Misc Belizean Sources

Belize to Celebrate Public Service Day: Public Officers to be Recognized at Award Ceremonies
In solidarity with the United Nations and other countries around the world, Belize celebrates Public Service Day on 23rd June, with a week of activities each year, to recognize and celebrate the work and worth of the Public Service. The theme for this year is “The Belize Public Service - Moving towards the future with Innovation, Dedication, and Perseverance.” This year marks the implementation of the ‘Recognition and Meritorious Award Policy’ for the Belize Public Service, which is a demonstration of the Government’s commitment to building employee morale by showing appreciation for employees across the Public Service at every level for outstanding performances.

Export Processing Zone Committee Decision on Santander Sugar Limited Violations and Waiver Request to Sell Locally
The Export Processing Zone Committee (EPZC) convened a meeting in respect of (1) a request made by Santander Sugar Limited, a Belizean EPZ Company, for a waiver to be granted allowing the company to sell approximately 5,000 tons of direct consumption sugar and 2,000 tons of molasses in the domestic market; and (2) violations committed under the Export Processing Zone Act, Chapter 280, Substantive Laws of Belize, by Santander Sugar Ltd. The methodology for the review of the waiver request was premised on three criteria: i. Will the waiver aid the economic development of Belize? ii. Will it relieve a shortage of sugar in the domestic market? iii. Does it otherwise seem to be in the interest of Belize?

Belmopan Humane Society Annual General Meeting
The Belmopan Humane Society is actively recruiting volunteers that would like to join our Board of Directors. We are in need of a secretary to take minutes of the meetings and a treasurer. If you feel you can commit to a full year to help the Society achieve its ambitious goals please call 602 7947

Corozal ArT In ThE ParK
This weekend's edition of Art in the Park on Saturday, June 16th will be monitored due to the oncoming weather condition. According to our Corozal House of Culture, it is still scheduled for this weekend. Please come out and enjoy the camaraderie. One Love!

History Department of Corozal Junior College attands Presentation of Shoman book
A gracious thank you to the History Department of Corozal Junior College in extending an invitation to attend the presentation of Assad Shoman's book - Guatemala's Claim to Belize, The Definitive History. It was wonderful to see students engaged in question & answers with the author on this critical challenge facing our nation.

SBDC Bookkeeping Workshop
The SBDC is having a couple of free workshops today. There's an Intro to Accounting and Bookkeeping workshop and a Cost and Pricing workshop. Contact them at 822-3737 to register.. "If you live in San Ignacio and own Small Business, SBDCBelize, a unit of BELTRAIDE, is offering a Free Training Opportunity on June 15, 2018. Just call our offices at 822-3737 to register for "Introduction to Accounting and Bookkeeping" and/or "Cost and Pricing". Don't miss out!"

Movie Night at KoKo King
FAMILY FRIDAY - Let's cross our fingers that the rain holds and we have a great movie line up commencing after the sun sets!!! CAPTAIN UNDERPANTS (PG) - 2 overly imaginative pranksters named George and Harold hypnotize their principal into thinking he's a ridiculously enthusiastic, incredibly dimwitted superhero named Captain Underpants. TRANSFORMERS: THE LAST KNIGHT (PG13) - Autobots and Decepticons are at war, with humans on the sidelines. Optimus Prime is gone. The key to saving our future lies buried in the secrets of the past, in the hidden history of Transformers on Earth.

Lobster Season Opens Today!
The Lobster Season officially re-opens today, June 15! The Lobster Season will last June 15, 2018 - February 14, 2019. Please note the following Fisheries Regulations: • No person or establishment should have in possession filleted or diced lobster tail. • No persons shall take lobster with berries, eggs or spawn removed that is molting or has soft shell. • It is illegal to remove any female lobster, any egg or spawn or the setae or fiber to which any egg or spawn are/previously attached. Be a responsible consumer - the minimum carapace length is 3 inches and minimum tail weight is 4 ounces! Be sociable - share! Photo credit: Matthew Scott

Voter Re-registration Meeting today on Caye Caulker
Attention General Public: Elections and Boundaries will be in Caye Caulker to inform you of the process and requirements needed for re-registration. It will be held at the Community Center on Friday, June 15th,2018 at 10:00 a.m. You are all invited to attend. Thank You.

Made in Belize Expo 2018
Saturday, June 16 at 10 AM - 5 PM, National Agriculture & Trade Show Grounds, Junction of George Price Hwy and Hummingbird Hwy. Come out and see us at the Made in Belize Expo, this Saturday, June 16th, 2018. Enjoy 20% off all our Grow Big Products! Bring an old Grow Big or similar gallon jug and receive $1.00 off the product of your choice! Buy Belize, Support local made products!

BTB offers vacation to US Open competitor
The Belize tourism commission is offering a free vacation to whichever U.S. Open competitor posts the worst score at the notoriously difficult par-3 No. 7.

National Song Competition 2018 Receiving Submissions
Each year, the National Celebrations Commission strives to highlight Belize’s rich and unique cultural heritage through the numerous events held to commemorate our national celebrations. One such event is the National Song Competition which was created to provide professional and amateur musicians with the opportunity to create and showcase their original pieces. The goal of the competition is to promote artistic expression, national pride and Belize’s diverse culture. The competition was created to give both professionals and amateur song-writers and performing artists an opportunity to showcase their original pieces on a grand stage. It comprises of two categories:

The Belize National Team Friendly Matches
The Football Federation of Belize (FFB) continues the preparation of the National Teams. This weekend, Sunday June 17, 2018, the National A-Team and U-19 team will be playing both Crack International from Cancun, Quinta Roo A-Team and U-19 Team respectively at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium. The U-19 teams will play at 4:00PM, and the A-Teams will play at 6:00 PM. The Belize U-19 National Team will be competing in the UNCAF U-19 male tournament in Honduras from August 20-26, 2018 and the Belize A-Team will be competing in the CONCACAF Nations League tournament scheduled later this year. Both our U-19 and A-Team will be traveling to Merida to participate in a Quadrangular tournament against Club Venados and Atlantic of Merida on June 28 – 29, 2018.

Johnny Bee Birthday Bash
Bay Breeze on the Corozal Bay invites this Saturday, June 16th from 7:00 P.M. to 2:00 A.M. - Johnny Bee Birthday Bash - Various DJ's. Come out and have fun in a safe environment.

Telethon for the Escalante Sub-Division Fire Victims
Share the word an lend a hand. Telethon in aid of the Escalante Sub-Division Fire Victims. Starting at 7am on REEF TV Channel 20 and Reef Radio 92.3FM

The Stann Creek Regional Archaeology Project wraps up their 2018 season in Belize
Here's a heartfelt thank you to our students and staff for making the SCRAP 2018 field school such a memorable success! It was a pleasure working with all of you! Safe travels everyone.

Channel 7

Feud Between Neighbors Leads to Late Evening Shooting
At 6:00 this evening, bus commuters were alarmed to hear the sound of 6 gunshots right near the bus station. A man was shot and killed in what appears to be some kind of dispute between neighbors. It happened on East Canal near the junction with Cemetery Road. Details are scarce at this time, but police are processing the scene where a man is dead in his yard, and his neighbor is on the scene in handcuffs. We'll have more on this tomorrow.

Off Duty Cop Saves Businessman From Ruthless Robber
For two weeks now we've been telling you about the rash of armed robberies at businesses across the city. Today one assailant took it to another level - he straight up attacked a businessman and tried to pull him out of his vehicle. It happened on busy King Street at 10:00 am, half a block from Albert Street - which is teeming with police, and in plain view of everyone. The brazen nature of the crime was captured on security camera and Jules Vasquez looked at the footage:… Jules Vasquez reporting: At a few minutes after 10:00 this morning - an Indian businessman is seen taking his time to climb into his Four Runner SUV. He lives and works in the area so is comfortable and at ease.

Balloon Bar Targeted By Pair of Thieves
And last night gunmen descended on a bar on the northside. Balloon Bar on Marine Parade was the target this time. At 8:10 two men - one of them with a gun - robbed the place, pistol whipped the owner, and then robbed the wait-staff of their personal possessions. Police told us more. Insp. Wilfredo Ferrufino, C.I.B., Eastern Division: "The Balloon Bar Pizzeria. The owner of the establishment, Mr. Ahmet Bekiz, reported that he was inside the establishment along with four of his employees when two male persons of dark complexion entered the business, one of whom was armed with a firearm. They proceeded to rob the workers of cell-phones and jewelry and they made their escape in a black pickup truck..."

Customer Shot in Calcutta Village
And gunmen weren't only in the prowl in the city - as far north as Calcutta Village in the Corozal District there was gunplay. Police told us how an alert security guard and two would be robbers got into an exchange of fire that injured a bystander:.. Insp. Wilfredo Ferrufino, C.I.B., Eastern Division: "Police responded to a shooting at a community supermarket in Calcutta Village. There on arrival, they spoke to the security of the business and he indicated that while standing in front of the establishment, he noticed two male persons approaching the supermarket and their movements were suspicious to him..."

Faber not Flustered By Patt Promotion
Last night, we showed you our interviews with UDP Ministers Wilfred Elrington and Edmond Castro discussing the Prime Minister's latest reshuffling of his Cabinet. Dr. Carla Barnett, the Minister of State who ran the day to day operations of the Ministry of Natural Resources, is being replaced by her elected UDP colleague, Hugo Patt. Her unexpected exit from one of the most powerful ministries has been cause for speculation, since the Lands Department is regularly under the spotlight for allegations of corruption. And, rather suddenly, Prime Minister Barrow has chosen an elected representative and a juniour minister to take over. Today, when we got the opportunity to speak with the Deputy Prime Minister, we asked him for his take on the portfolio re-assignment:

Was Saldivar Passed Over For Patt?
So while Faber isn't chafed over the Cabinet twist, it's much the same for National Security Minister John Saldivar. As a senior minister he also would have seemed a suitable choice for such a senior ministry. But, today, he couldn't seem less bothered by Hugo Patt's major promotion. Saldivar says he is very satisfied with running his ministry and wished Patt well. Hon. John Saldivar, Minister of National Security: "I would like to think that the Ministry of National Security is a senior enough ministry for a guy like me. I certainly want to add though that I think Dr. Barnett was doing a great job in terms of trying to institute reforms that would bring about better service delivery in the ministry and I expect that Minister Patt is going to continue on those programs and plans that the former minister had in place and I know that Minister Patt will do a good job. I wish him well. It's a tough ministry, people are looking for service and that's why we are making the changes that we are doing and I think that he is going to continue along the lines that Dr. Barnett had already started."

How Will Hugo Handle Natural Resources?
So with all those well wishes and endorsements, Corozal North's Hugo Patt can get to work. The Natural Resource Ministry is a powerful but very difficult ministry to manage - and Patt becomes the 4th minister in less than three years since the last general election. Today when we spoke to Patt he said he is approaching the task with a positive and open mind. Patt also addressed all the issues and setbacks at the Lands Department which is the lynchpin in the Ministry of Natural Resources: Hon. Hugo Patt, Minister of Natural Resources: "I welcome this. As you indicated it's a big ministry. It's a huge challenge and as I indicated it is not like we will be starting from scratch. It's not like we will be starting from zero. A lot of work has been put into the ministry in terms of reforms, in terms of restructuring. So that we have a part that we need to streamline. We have a roadmap that all we need to do in my opinion is tweak and fine tune in order to get the processes in place and for the people to get a timely service."

Taking A Stand in South Cebada, Chiquibul
The South Cebada area is one of the most bountiful and pristine areas in the Chiquibul Forest - but it's also under the most pressure from Guatemalans who are pushing into Belize. The Friends for Conservation and Development recently reported that rangers documented fresh survey lines, and beans, corn and banana plantations by Guatemalan farmers. So they're pushing in - today Courtney Weatherburne went to Chiquibul to find out what Government is doing to push back:... Like first time home owners checking out their new crib - National Security Minister John Saldivar and his colleagues inspected the conservation post in the South Cebada area of the Chiquibul. Of course this new space isn't for them.

Military Minister Saldivar Urges For Restraint On Otoxha Border
And those crafty Guatemalan encroachers have already found another to penetrate - and that's Otoxha in southwestern Belize. Villagers recently took to the airwaves and asked for the BDF's help in clearing the border line. National Security Minister Saldivar advised against that:... Hon. John Saldivar, Minister of National Security: "Since they made the call we've been down there and continue to have a presence down there. We are looking at how we can improve what we are doing down there. I should be visiting there sometime next week, but I know that we are on the ground and that we've been able at least for now arrest the situation. We are working on a plan that will involve the villagers, the alcalde association and all, so that we can have a more permanent fix to this problem."

Nurse Was With Her Two Children When Killed in RTA
As we told you last night - a nurse was killed in a fatal accident on the Phillip Goldson Highway. Police told us today that 43 year old Lemi Ewan was with her two children when she lost control of her Suzuki Gran Vitara and flipped multiple times: Insp. Wilfredo Ferrufino: "Miss Rosa De Jesus was driving the vehicle from Crooked Tree in the direction of Rhaburn Ridge when she lost control of the vehicle and caused it to overturn. Inside the vehicle were two minors, a a twelve-year-old and a nine-year-old. The twelve-year-old Christopher Ewan and the nine-year-old Astria Salam. They received minor injuries and they were treated and released from the hospital."

Dwayne Davis Tells Court He’s Neither Gay Nor Bisexual
37 year-old Dwayne Davis, the man who pleaded guilty to manslaughter in a male on male sex tryst that went wrong, will have to wait 6 more days to find out how much jail time he will serve for the 2012 killing of the Guatemalan Doctor, Ivan Garcia Today, the judge heard a mitigation plea from both Davis and his attorney, Bryan Neal. They offered testimony that the judge should consider in arriving at the prison sentence. Davis told the court that he is neither gay nor bisexual, and he was not Dr. Garcia's lover. He said that he was simply defending himself. He asked the court for leniency, and he said that he would greatly appreciate any consideration given to him. Attorney Bryan Neal told the court that he has served just a few days short of 6 years on remand. Neal asked Justice Lucas to subtract the remand time from Davis' sentence.

Santander Gets A Stern Slapdown
The Santander Sugar Group got a strong rap on the knuckles today when the Export Processing Zone Committee handed down its decision on the company infractions of the EPZ regulations. First, the Committee denied their application for a waiver of the EPZ regulations so that they can sell sugar locally. The Committee found, quote, "the main conclusion from the assessment was that there is not any shortage of sugar in the domestic market. Based on this, and other findings of the assessment report, the EPZC decided that market conditions do not warrant the waiver at this time, and hence, the committee was unable to favorably consider Santander's request to sell sugar and molasses in the local market at this time." And then, the Committee also reviewed Santander's violations of EPZ regs and decided, quote, "to impose the maximum fine applicable under the EPZ Act."

Restoring Regality to Queen Of the Bay
The last time that the Queen of the Bay pageant made evening news was during last year's September Celebrations when it turned into a public fiasco. The decade's old pageant has a long history of prestige, and it even has a special place in the September Celebrations schedule. But, all that was disregarded when the past Chair of Queen of the Bay Committee got into a public dispute over the with the judges over who should have won. That turned an exercise in patriotism into a soap opera on a public stage. So, this year, the Government wants to make sure that there is not going to be a repeat of that embarrassment. So, they've decided to turn over leadership of the pageant to a committee made up of past queens who have intimate knowledge about how coordinator Emma Boiton ran it before her she had to step down for health reasons.

NEMO Is Down With EOC
Last night on the news NEMO Minister Edmond Castro was non comital about the Belize City Council's request to use the Belize Civic Center as the Emergency Operation Center in the event of a hurricane. He didn't exactly say yes to the EOC, and so today, the NEMO Ministry sent out a press release which makes it clear that they agree with the EOC at civic. The press release says, quote, "Minister of National Emergency Management Hon Edmond Castro and officials from… (NEMO) and …(CEMO) agreed that the Civic Center, in the event of a major disaster, would be utilized as headquarters for the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), among other things." End quote. The Press release confirms that an emergency medical center, operated by KHMH staff, will also be housed at the civic.

Apex Bex ‘Bout Trade License Assessment
So, while that dispute appears to have been amicably resolved, another is brewing between Apex Belize, the managers of the Civic, and City Hall - this one is over trade licenses. The press has learned that the City's Trade License Board is considering billing Apex a half a million dollars for their trade licenses to operate in Belize. Now, as viewers are aware, the almost 33 million dollar facility will cost almost a million dollars to run it annually. Apex has to rent it out to cover its operational costs, and they have to meet strict revenue targets in order to be allowed to continue managing it.

Faber Says Trade License Fee Is Victimization
We also asked Sports Minister and BIL Co-Chair Patrick Faber about the possibility that half-a-million-dollar trade license bill. He told us that from his perspective, it looks like victimization, and here's how he explained why: Hon. Patrick Faber, Minister of Sports: "I heard only vaguely about the desire of the council to do that. I suspect that there is some element of victimization, if you will. We know that the opposition party, particularly the mayor, on his campaign ranted and raved about the civic center. This is not something that they support..."

Waggan Robbers Got Small Take
On Monday we told you about the armed robbery of the popular discount outlet, Kriol Waggans. It's newsworthy because it's a robbery, but also because it happened at a store in the King's Park area. Since then we've been pressing police for details - and today they finally provided it:.. As you heard, there are suspects based on what was captured on security camera.

Police Say Golf Cart Caused San Pedro Blaze
And going now to the san Pedro fire, police are only now managing to put together all the details in a blaze that killed four and affected many more. They are also saying that a golf cart which was charging started the fire that turned into an unspeakable tragedy:… Nunez remains in critical condition.

Toddler Drowns In Disposal Pit
And another child died in tragic circumstances. Yesterday, 24 year old Rosa Cisneros saw that her three year old daughter Abigail was missing. Police explained where she found the child and what happened next:... It was a pit used for disposal, not a well.

He Won Quarter Mil!
Only 3 months ago, A San Ignacio man got very lucky with a quick pick in Fantasy 5 which saw him walk away with the 345-thousand-dollar jackpot. Well tonight, there is another quick pick Fantasy 5 winner. This time, it's Hernan Serrano, a Ladyville resident. On Tuesday, he bought a quick pick and he learned today that he had the winning ticket, which gave him the current jackpot of 284,000 dollars. We go a chance to speak off-camera with him and the PR Officer for Fantasy 5 about his sudden and big come-up: After taxes, Serrano will take home $241,400.

Bouncy House Babylon Making Rocky Road Relief
And, finally tonight, in police news that has nothing do with crime, we went out to Rocky Road yesterday to see the Region One commander recruiting kids for his cadet corps. Rocky Road is a gang affiliated area and it's right beside its biggest rivals on George Street. But when Senior Superintendent Gillett showed up with a bouncy house - kids from both neighborhoods came together. He told us that's exactly the plan - creating peace through policing:… Gillett makes weekly visits to Rocky Road and Mayflower neighborhood and hopes to expand it to Lake Independence next.

Channel 5

Hugo Patt Speaks on Taking over the Ministry of Natural Resources
His promotion to the second most powerful government ministry is still making headlines, but since the announcement that on June twenty-fifth, he will become the new Minister of Natural Resources, [...]

Will Promotion Boost Patt’s Chances to Contest Upcoming Leadership Convention?
Hugo Patt’s ascension as well as the significance of the portfolio he has been assigned, leads many to question whether the U.D.P. Corozal North area rep is being primed for [...]

DPM Patrick Faber Comes Out in Support of New Lands Minister
As you heard, Minister Patt officially assumes direction of the Ministry of Natural Resources, in the next two week. The minister from the north has not held any of the [...]

Was Carla Barnett Pushed Out of Lands?
The announcement on Tuesday that Senator Carla Barnett was leaving the Ministry of Natural Resources took a lot of people by surprise because it is well known that the senator [...]

G.O.B. Rejects Santander’s Request to Sell Sugar Locally
There is sweet news for cane farmers who strongly fought against the Spanish multinational, Santander, for introducing white sugar into the local market. Tonight, there is a decision in respect [...]

Controversy over Development in Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve
There is growing public concern about the status of a development in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve by a group of businessmen led by former Immigration Minister Elvin Penner. [...]

C.E.O. Percival Cho Says Environmental Clearance to Developer Not Granted
According to C.E.O. Cho an application by the developer has been halted because of environmental clearance not being granted. The Department of Environment, however, is reviewing that application.   Isani [...]

Foiled Robbery on King Street; 1 Man Detained
A police officer’s quick action foiled a robbery in progress in the downtown area today. The brazen robbery in progress happened shortly after ten this morning in front of a [...]

Armed Robbers Target Balloon Bar Pizzeria
On Wednesday night around eight-twenty, robbers struck the Balloon Bar Pizzeria on Marine Parade.  Police say they were called out to the establishment where they learnt that two armed robbers [...]

Thieves Identified in Creole Wagans Robbery
Creole Wagans located on ‘E’ Street was the target of robbers on Monday around two-thirty in the afternoon. The perpetrators only managed to take a small amount of cash and [...]

Are Robbers Abandoning Downtown and Targeting the North Side?
Are robbers abandoning downtown and targeting the north side? From all indications it appears so. After police implemented the “safe zone” on the Alberts following a string of daring armed [...]

Landy’s & Sons in Orange Walk is Targeted by Thieves
And from robberies in the city to a burglary in the north.  Today police said that Landy’s and Sons, a hardware store on the Belize-Corozal Road in Orange Walk Town [...]

Faber for U.D.P. Leadership, Next Prime Minister
Political pundits view Hugo Patt’s promotion to the Ministry of Natural Resources as an attempt to neutralize any power play by frontrunners Patrick Faber and John Saldivar in the run [...]

John Saldivar Already Campaigning for U.D.P. Leadership
Despite having lost to Collet’s Patrick Faber for Deputy Party Leader in May 2016, John Saldivar has reemerged as a serious contender.  The Belmopan area representative is already on the [...]

Trade Licenses Bill to Apex; is it Political Victimization?
Is a move by the Belize City Council to bill the managing company of the Civic Center approximately half a million dollars for trade licenses, a case of political victimization [...]

Late Evening Murder in the City
Late this evening, there was a murder in the south side of the city. Police have not been able to confirm details, but we know that a man on Collet [...]

Nurse Leimi Ewan Perishes in Fatal RTA
There was a fatal accident on the Philip Goldson Highway on Wednesday evening which claimed the life of Nurse Leimi Ewan. The northern regional nurse was traveling from Crooked Tree [...]

Bystander Injured During Shootout in Calcutta
Police say they were called out to the scene of a shooting around eight-forty-five on Wednesday night in Calcutta Village, Corozal. A man who was standing behind a supermarket fired [...]

Did a Charging Golf Cart Cause the Deadly Fire in San Pedro?
The Fire Department continues its investigations into the horrific fire in the Escalante Subdivision of San Pedro. Thirty-six-year-old Clarita Bacab, perished in the inferno as did her two children and [...]

Sentence Deferred for Dwayne Davis, Guilty of Manslaughter
Thirty-seven-year-old Dwayne Davis remains behind bars tonight pending sentencing. Davis was charged with the 2012 murder of Doctor Ivan Garcia but pleaded guilty to manslaughter. He was to be sentenced [...]

South Cebada Conservation Post is Inaugurated
The Protected Areas Conservation Trust, PACT, along with a team of five ranking government officials, including Minister of National Security John Saldivar, journeyed to the depths of the Chiquibul National [...]

Setting the Record Straight: G.O.B. Decides Whether Salaries of Striking Teachers are Docked
Minister of Education Patrick Faber says that the government is solely responsible to make decisions on whether or not salaries should be docked for teachers who go on strike. There [...]

Details on the Drowning of Toddler in Southern Belize
A baby girl drowned in a pit of water in Bella Vista Village on Tuesday. Police responded to the drowning sometime around one-thirty that afternoon when a woman reported that [...]

Queen of the Bay Pageant Taken Over by Former Queens
The Queen of the Bay pageant is a highlight in the September calendar as highly anticipated as the Carnival Road march. Deep in tradition, the pageant has been running for [...]

LOVE FM

Faber says results cause for concern
Last week the results of this year’s primary school examinations were released. The results did not show an improvement in the four core subject areas. Minister of Education Patrick Faber said while he is not pleased with the results, he hopes that the work that is being done within the system will yield results. Patrick …

EPZ says no to Santander
Santander will not be allowed to sell their sugar on the local market. That is the decision of the Export Processing Zone Committee. As has been reported, Santander had requested a waiver for the company to sell five thousand tons of direct consumption sugar and two thousand tons of molasses on the domestic market. The …

Jose Mai says sugar industry must be prioritized
Over the years the sugar cane industry has had its fair share of challenges. Farmers have had to adapt to changes in the global market which has led to falling prices. Area representative, Jose Mai said the Ministry of Trade needs to look at expanding the country quota. Jose Mai, Area Representative, Orange Walk South: …

Past Queens form new Queen of the Bay Committee
Last year the Queen of the Bay pageant was embroiled in controversy as there was the crowning of two Queens. To ensure there is not a repeat of last year’s fiasco a new Queen of the Bay Committee has been put together. Deputy Prime Minister and Chairperson of the National September Celebrations Commission, Patrick Faber, …

Police suspect that tragic fire on San Pedro was caused by golf cart
In the early hours of Tuesday morning, a fire in the Escalante subdivision area of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye claimed the life of 36-year-old Clarita Bacab, two of her children and her niece. Today the Police say the fire might have originated from a golf cart that was in the area. Insp. Wilfredo Ferrufino, CIB, …

Faber endorses Patt as Minister of Natural Resources
The next Minister of Natural Resources will be Hugo Patt. As was announced earlier this week, Patt was assigned to the portfolio after Dr. Carla Barnett requested to be reassigned. Patt will become the fourth Minister of Natural Resources in under three years. Yesterday Minister Wilfred Elrington told the press the problems within the Lands …

Mother killed in traffic incident
A woman was killed in a road traffic incident yesterday evening on the Philip Goldson Highway. Inspector Wilfredo Ferrufino provided the details. Inspector Wilfredo Ferrufino – Crime Investigation Branch: Police visited Mile 33 or visited an area between Miles 33 and 34 on the Philip Goldson Highway. Upon arrival they discovered a Suzuki Grand Vitara. A …

CEMO holds out hope for Civic
The City Emergency Management Organization (CEMO) has its eyes on using the Belize Civic Center as its emergency operation center. Edmond Castro, the Minister of Transport and NEMO, said that priority is being given to the hospital and the security services. On the other hand, the Minister did not confirm that CEMO will be allowed …

Will judgment against Samuel Haynes cause it to fold?
Approximately three years ago, an iron-gate located at the Samuel Haynes Institute fell on three-year-old Brianna Timmons. The family had sued the contractor, Brian Espat and Pickstock Development Association, which owns the property where the Samuel Haynes Institute is located. Minister Wilfred Elrington’s wife, Barbara Elrington, is the Executive Director of Pickstock Development Association. Earlier …

NEMO tours civic
Minister of Transport and National Emergency Management, Edmond Castro conducted a tour and inspection of the Belize Civic Center facilities to examine how adequate it is to be used in case of a disaster. Castro told the media that it will be used to house the hospital. Edmond Castro – Minister of Transport & NEMO: “It …

The Reporter

Murder reported near Pound Yard bridge!
A man was reportedly murdered about an hour ago near the Pound Yard bridge in Belize City. The incident happened during a confrontation between the deceased and someone from Pacheco’s Jewelry Shop on East Collet Canal. The police are at the scene and The Reporter […]

Breaking Belize News

Orange Walk hardware store burglarized twice within 24 hours
This morning, John Burns, a businessman of Orange Walk reported to police that Landy’s and Sons […]

Orange Walk youth drowns while swimming in river near San Estevan Ferry
On June 11, 2018, around 12 p.m., police were called by the person in charge of […]

Belize Civic Center to be used for Emergency operations center
Yesterday, the Minister of National Emergency Management, Edmond Castro, officials from the National Emergency Management Organization […]

Man shot dead near Pacheco’s jewelry shop in Belize City
A shooting in Belize City minutes ago has left one person dead. BBN can confirm […]

Creole Wagons employee robbed and held at gunpoint
On Monday around 2:30 p.m., police arrived at the Creole Wagons on F Street, in […]

Belize’s Blue Hole featured in Forbes most amazing underwater caves
Prestigious American magazine, Forbes has included the Blue Hole on a list of the most amazing […]

Belize to Celebrate Public Service day
Today, the government of Belize announced that in solidarity with the United Nations and other […]

Person of the Week- Jane Usher
Whenever one thinks about the credit union movement in Belize, the name Jane Usher comes […]

Export Processing Zone Committee denies Santander’s waiver request
On Tuesday, May 12, the Export Processing Zone Committee (EPZC) convened a meeting in respect […]

National Song Competition 2018 now receiving Submissions
Each year, the National Celebrations Commission strives to highlight Belize’s rich and unique cultural heritage through […]

World Blood Donors day celebrated
Every year on June 14, health professionals and blood donors commemorate World Blood Donors day. […]

Maya Mountain Cacao Ltd. launches Project to certify selected Cacao Trees as Heirloom
On Monday, June 11, the Maya Mountain Cacao (MMC) group, in partnership with the Heirloom […]

Blogs

More Docks in Boca Del Rio, Indian Food in San Pedro And SO MANY EVENTS Coming Up
Just a few months ago, I posted about a proliferation of piers in the Boca Del Rio area just north of the town center (Two New Over the Water Bars and one dive shop) I’m left a bit confused. There has been talk for years about thinning out the number of docks in San Pedro town. The last mayor even suggested the removal of all docks to the back side of the island. I’m not sure many thought that would be possible. But over the past year or so, not only have all the docks damaged/destroyed by the hurricane been rebuilt, but even more docks – longer and bigger – have been constructed. The newest example is one that is under construction now in Boca Del Rio. Renderings have surfaced on the opposition party’s Facebook page for “Losers” Bar.

Guyventures: Take Her On An Adventure Trip To Western Belize
Belize is confounding. A place cannot be this beautiful – it's unfair. Nestled below Mexico's southeastern corner, its borders slice through western Guatemala and its coastline looks out onto the Caribbean. A former British colony, Belize is officially an English speaking nation in the heart of the Spanish speaking world. But as I learned when traveling there — in Belize, official is little more than a guideline. Vastly different cultures blend to make up what Belize is today and, impossibly, they manage to thrive together. Regardless of where their ancestors came from, an impressive percentage of Belizeans speak English, Spanish as well as Creole (similar to Jamaican Patois) — pretty much everyone I spoke to did.

International Sources

Shillong band to participate in Belize fest
Shillong band 4th Element will represent India at the Belize International Jazz Festival at Belize, Central America this year, The festival begins on on June 16 and will conclude on June 24. Band from countries Mexico, Hungary, Quba, USA, and Belize itself to name a few will take part in the festival. The band members of 4th Element are hugely excited to perform at the Belize International Jazz Festival and have also included a few Khasi songs in the lineup, which have been musically designed according to the styles and elements of the band. The 4th Element of Shillong will be the first band from India ever to play not only at the jazz festival but in the beautiful Caribbean coast line country of Belize itself.

Belize opens border to state residents passport-free
The government of Belize says they have opened the border for residents of the state of Quintana Roo, allowing Mexicans to enter the country without passports. Through its consulate office in Chetumal, the government of Belize says the Belize Hotel Association began a campaign to promote its tourist attractions to increase the flow of Mexican visitors into the country. In a press conference, the Belizean consul in Chetumal, Luis Montero Maldonado and the representative of the hoteliers Tessy Durán, explained that a fundamental part of this exchange of visitors will be to grant greater access to the facilities and different tourist destinations in Belize.

Videos

June 14, 2018

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, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials

The San Pedro Sun

SPHS hosts candlelight vigil to honor fire victims
The San Pedro High School (SPHS) hosted a candlelight vigil on Tuesday, June 12th in honour of one of their students, Allan Nuñez, who died in a tragic fire earlier that day. The fire gutted Allan’s family residence in the Escalante Sub-division and sadly also took the lives of his mother Clara Bacab Nuñez, his little sister 6-year-old Mia Nuñez, and cousin, 16-year-old Shirley Bacab. They remained trapped inside the burning structure while the father David Nuñez, and older brother, 16-year-old Samir Nuñez, managed to escape the inferno with severe injuries. At the vigil at the high school auditorium, fellow students, teachers, staff and islanders remembered the Nuñez and Bacab family with songs and emotional speeches.

International Day of Yoga planned in San Pedro
The first International Day of Yoga (aka IYD, World Yoga Day) was celebrated in Belize City on June 21, 2015, after the United Nations approved the resolution of India’s Prime Minister, the Hon. Narendra Modi, establishing an annual international day of yoga. The High Commissioner of India to Belize HE Sujan R. Chinoy tasked Mr. Arun Hotchanandani, Hon. Consul General of India in Belize, with establishing a committee to organize the first International Day of Yoga in Belize. Michelle Ashanti Williams, the owner of Om Shanti in Belize City and Founder/Chairperson of Rhythm of Change, Belize, was appointed country coordinator.

Miss Universe Belize 2018 candidates revealed
The Miss Universe Belize beauty pageant has returned to the country, and the 11 delegates from across the country who will be competing for the crown have been revealed. The new Miss Universe Belize will get the opportunity to represent the country at 67th Annual Miss Universe Pageant. The 11 girls that will be competing for the title of Miss Universe Belize 2018 are Christalyn Castillo, Ashley Reid, Kiah Pastor, Alicia Banner, Jenelli Frazer, Jessica Flores, Kayla Awe, Kelsey Tillet, Nicole Hamilton, Selena Urias and Shante Morgan.

Ambergris Today

BTB Delegates Attend Experience Latin America 2018
Belize is receiving tremendous attention and representation at Experience Latin America (ela), Europe’s only travel show dedicated to Latin America. This exclusive event connects key European buyers with exclusive exhibitors from Latin America. The three day event is taking place in London, UK from the 11 to 13 June 2018 and is being attended by BTB’s Chairman, Mr. Einer Gomez, BTB’s Director of Tourism Mrs. Karen Bevans and Caroline Parkin, Account Manager, Brighter Group, Marketing and Representation. This year with Belize’s sponsorship through the Belize Tourism Board, a Belizean menu is being highlighted at the ela Fiesta where delegates and exhibitors alike will have an opportunity to savor Belizean cuisine such as Fish Panades, Belizean BBQ skewers, plantain, mini burrito, ceviche and mango cocktail to name a few. The menu will also share some fun facts about some Belizean food.

Misc Belizean Sources

Assad Shoman New Book in Belmopan
Come Listen. Come Talk. Come Purchase. "Guatemala’s Claim to Belize The Definitive History " by Assad Shoman. FOR ONLY $30.00! The book will be presented at the National Heritage Library, Belmopan, on Wednesday June 20, 2018 at 6:00pm.

Helping Hands Summer School
Good opportunity for kids in and around Belmopan! July 2nd-31st.

The Young Professionals Programme (YPP) 2018 EXAMS – APPLICATION PERIOD IS OPEN!
Applications will be accepted through 9 August 2018.

MEXICAN AUTHORITIES TO CONDUCT INSPECTIONS ON COMMERCIAL FREIGHT AND PASSENGER VEHICLES ENTERING MEXICO
The Ministry of Transport advises the Belizean public that from Wednesday, June 13 to Friday, June 15, 2018, checking inspections will be carried out by Mexico’s Secretariat of Communications and Transportation to promote the registration of Belizean commercial vehicles entering Mexico. These operations will take place close to Subteniente López on Route 186 (Escarcega- Chetumal highway) off Chetumal. The inspections are intended to encourage Belizean drivers to register and to comply with requirements which are in line with the standard international procedure and in accordance with a Memorandum of Understanding on International Motor Carrier, Passenger and Freight Transportation signed between the governments of Belize and Mexico on October 25, 2017.

Ministry of Finance Comments on Recent Increases in Pump Prices for Fuel
In view of certain reports circulating publicly, the Ministry of Finance wishes to restate the facts about recent increases in the pump price for fuel. The increases are due exclusively to the global acquisition costs for fuel, which have skyrocketed in recent months. While Government taxes are a necessary and significant component in what is passed on to the consumer, those taxes have not increased since April 2017, and therefore, have not affected the recent spike in pump prices that Belize has been experiencing. Rather, there are factors beyond the Government’s control, and which set world oil prices, that are to blame. Thus almost all countries, including the USA, have been impacted by rising fuel prices.

Did you know that Border Pass has already been resumed to go to Corozal and has an area extension to visit?
According to the new modifications now this Border Pass is not only for the Chetumaleños, but any citizen of Quintana Roo can travel, who requested the procedure in the offices of the consulate in Chetumal. In addition, they will be able to walk in all the Belizean territory, since previously they could only know Corozal; with a pass that has a cost of 20 Belizean dollars per year and the validity is one, two or three years. The honorary council of Belize in Quintana Roo, Luis Gilberto Montero Maldonado, mentioned that now they seek to extend the period of stay of the tourists of Quintana Roo in Belize, that is to say to go from three to five days.

Benque Fiesta 2018
The 2018 Benque Fiesta dates are set, and the main schedule is out. It'll be the long weekend starting on Friday, July 13th as it starts with the Seniorita Flor de la Feria pageant. The parade is on Sunday, and the Benque Viejo Marching Band will be in it.

Upgrade to the road to the El Pilar
The Institute of Archaeology in collaboration with the Hon. Dr. Omar Figueroa, are working towards an upgrade of the road to the El Pilar Archaeological Reserve. This upgrade will afford visitors from all over a smoother way to visit this impressive archaeological site in western Belize.

Pathways to Complexity: A View from the Maya Lowlands
Edited by M. Kathryn Brown and George Bey III, looks at new archaeological data to shed light on the origins of Maya civilization and the rise of Classic Maya culture. Various Maya scholars contribute their own arguments of the development of social, religious and economic complexity hundreds of years earlier than was previously believed. This volume is now available at the Institute of Archaeology for your research needs.

TWENTY-NINE BELIZEANS ACCEPTED FOR SCHOLARSHIPS IN TAIWAN FOR 2018
The Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) is pleased to announce that this year 29 Belizean students have been awarded scholarships respectively by the TaiwanICDF (Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund) Scholarship Program and the Taiwan Scholarship Program. Both scholarship programs provide every scholarship recipient a round trip economy class ticket, accommodations, tuition fees, credit fees, insurance, textbook costs, and a monthly allowance from US$400 to US$950 depending on what subject is pursued. The scholarships will last for a maximum of 5 years for recipients of certain courses.

International Day of Yoga
Ak'bol is hosting the International Day of Yoga for San Pedro this Sunday June 17th @9-11am FREE event worldwide to promote Yoga practice. The ambassador of India is a yogi and has created this national holiday. There is a set protocol created by the ambassador and master teachers from India which includes a brief lecture about history and benefits and a specific sequence of 20 postures, a little breath work leading to meditation and a couple chants... We will be punctual because it is suppose to start the same time around the world.

Dia de San Pedro June 28-30
Upcoming event....Mark your calendars....More details coming soon!

VACANCIES FOR TEACHING POSITIONS AT THE CHUNOX ST. VIATOR VOCATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
1. Agriculture Teacher (Full-Time) 2. Information Technology (Full-Time) 3. Chemistry/Biology Teacher (Part-Time) September-November 2018 Minimum qualification required is a Bachelor's Degree in the subject area. Renumeration will be in accordance with Salary scales approved by the Ministry of Education. Send letter of application and resume, with two (2) recent letters of recommendation and two (2) certified copies of the following documents:

Schedule for the RUSSIA WORLD CUP 2018
We know Belizeans love soccer, especiall WORLD CUP Soccer. Here is the Schedule for the RUSSIA WORLD CUP 2018 starting tomorrow Thursday, June 14th, 2018 at 8:30 p.m.. Stay tuned to your local cable provider for local time zone.

Belize Tourism Board - Tourism Performance Indicators for May 2018

Two power outages scheduled for Caye Caulker on Friday, June 15
From 8:00am to 12 noon to affect the area from the power station to the airstrip and from 1:00pm to 3:00pm to affect the area from the power station to The Split. BEL to remove hazardous vegetation growing into power lines.

Paradise Theater playing this weekend
7 Days in Entebbe, Acrimony, Gnome Alone, Death Wish

Belize Archaeology Symposium 2018
June 27-29, San Ignacio

KAN’S RENEWED PERSPECTIVE ON JAGUARS
Livestock farmers, who are engaged in a jaguar mitigation project with Ya’axché, are realizing that humans and jaguars can coexist. This is the story of Abraham Kan – a cattle farmer from Aguacate village in Toledo, southern Belize. Livestock farmers, who are engaged in a jaguar mitigation project with Ya’axché, are realizing that humans and jaguars can coexist. Below the foothills of Aguacate village in Toledo, southern Belize, nestles a cattle ranch owned by small scale farmer Abraham Kan. Before sunrise, Kan along with his two dogs sets out on a routine mission to check-up on his cattle. He rallies his cattle with a whistle, and they gather to enjoy the molasses and salt supplement he provides. One morning in 2014, as Kan gathered his cattle and began doing a headcount, he realized one cow was missing. He followed up with another whistle but it was futile. Kan became worried that his cow was injured and decided to set out in search of it. Near the outer edge of his cattle pasture, in the forested area of his land, his cow lay dead. Due to visible marks and the condition of the body, he strongly believed that a jaguar was responsible for the death of his cow. He set out to track the elusive jaguar but with no success. In the following years, he came across cat tracks but there were no further attacks on his livestock. The experience left him with more questions than answers and made him more determined to find out what led to the death of the cow.

Children from Yucatec Maya descent from San Jose,Orange walk dancing the Óok'ostaj Pool(Hoghead dance)
The Óok'ostaj Pool or U Pool K'ek'een "La cabeza del Cochino" has its origins in Prehispanic Maya times and was a ceremony done to thank nature which was consider as fundament of life and the provider of all our needs.Before it was done with birds and wild animals got by hunting but today it is done with domestic animals especially with the pig head. To know more of this Maya dance which is still perform in Northern Belize check this link.

Poling the boat
The instructor says it is important that the guys learn to pole the boat as that is the main part of what the guide does. The guys have been spending a few days practicing this skill...not at as fun as catching the fish but just as important.

Channel 7

A Mother Recounts The Heartache That Never Ends
Was the San Pedro fire tragedy a case of arson or was it an accident? The Fire department hasn’t confirmed the cause tonight, but while they investigate, a family has been shattered by loss. 4 persons – a mother, her two kids and her niece were incinerated in the blaze. Tonight, Courtney Weatherburne has a heart-wrenching interview with Clarita Nunez’s mother. Here is her story. The flames cast a ghastly orange glow over the early morning sky as fire fighters tried to tame the blaze. San Pedro residents helplessly stood by and watched - wincing in terror, knowing that a mother, her two kids and her niece were trapped inside and nothing more could be done to save them. 36 year old Clarita Nunez, her 6 year old adopted daughter Natasha Mia Nunez; her 14 year-old son, Allan Nunez; and her niece, 15 year-old Sherlett Bacab were all killed in the inferno – their remains gathered and carried away. Nunez’s husband David Nunez and their son 16 year old Samir Nunez were the only two who escaped. They jumped out of the second floor window. It is one of the most heartbreaking house fires in memory.

4 Week Old Shot By Pellet Gun Recovering
The mother of 4 week old shooting victim Dashawn Dwehene is speaking out tonight. 18 year old Tyreeka Welch says contrary to what police reported, her son’s father did not deliberately point and shoot at their baby boy. She says it was an accident and that all they want to do now is move on and take care of their baby. Courtney Weatherburne has the story. For many, pellet guns are harmless. They’re sport rifles used for hunting and target practice Even kids can use them. But when that pellet strikes the tender skin of a newborn – it’s not so harmless then. That is what happened to 4 week old Dashawn Dwehene. His 18 year old mother explained that on Saturday she was walking with her baby and her boyfriend, Lincoln Dwehene when he got the pellet gun to protect them from a snake:

Shot By Cops, 13 Year Old Hobbles Into Court
A 13 year old boy accused of pulling a gun on police was arraigned today.  The teenager had to hop into court with a cast on the leg where police shot him 10 days ago.   The boy was taken to the family court where he was read three criminal charges: one, for kept firearm without a gun license, another for, kept ammunitions without a gun license and one count of aggravated assault upon a police officer.   He pleaded not guilty and was remanded into custody at the Belize Youth Hostel located at Mile 21 on the George Price Highway. A police officer from the GSU says the minor pulled a loaded 38 pistol on him on June third - and he had to shoot the 13 year old in the foot to subdue him.  The boy’s father claims the gun was planted.  The child has been in the hospital under police guard since the shooting.

Nurse Killed in Northern Highway Fatality
There are reports that a woman was killed in a traffic accident on the Phillip Goldson highway this evening.   It happened sometime around 4:00 near at about mile 37 close to Rhaburn Ridge when this blue Chevy Tracker with Orange Walk license plates lost control and flipped.  Police found it in the bushes with the top crushed - and one female passenger was dead.  She is reported to be from Corozal.  We have received confirmation that it is Leimi Ewan, a surgical nurse at the Northern Regional Hospital. We’ll have details on this tomorrow.

Hon. Elrington Says Cabinet Shuffle Is About Improving Services
Last night, we told you how the Prime Minister has chosen Hugo Patt as his 4th Minister of Natural Resources in less than 3 years. Patt will replace Prime Minister Barrow as the former Minister of Natural Resources. The PM held the post only in name, and he left the day to day operations of the Ministry to Minister of State Dr. Carla Barnett, who’s also being reassigned to the Ministry of Labour, Local Government and Rural Development. Her sudden departure from that Ministry has some questioning the PM’s decision. Is he bowing to political pressure from within his Cabinet? We got a chance to ask about two of his Cabinet Ministers today about the reshuffle. We start first with Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington, who said that the Government is trying to improve services at the Ministry of Natural Resources. We challenged him on that, and here’s how he responded:

Castro Says PM Prerogative Good Enough For Him
Next up is the NEMO and Transport Minister, Edmond Castro. He told us that he doesn’t think too much about the PM’s reassignment of the Natural Resources Ministry portfolio. From his perspective, the PM can reshuffle his Cabinet as many times as he sees fit: Hon. Edmond Castro - Cabinet Minister: "The prime minister is the prime minister and the prime minister he has that prerogative. If he wants to shuffle cabinet or he wants to shuffle me every 3 days or every 4 days that's his prerogative. So there's nothing wrong, unno di dig too deep into."

The Ministry That Resists Repair
And while his Ministers will reflexively defend decisions of their maximum leader - putting an elected representative back in charge of the Ministry of Natural Resources marks a sea-change for the Prime Minister.  Steadily - but with little success - since 2015 he’s been trying to remove the political taint from a ministry which in 2013 he famously described as a hotbed of corruption.  These are his remarks captured on cell phone camera in Los Angeles speaking to an audience of Belizean Americans:… Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister: "I believe that the lands department unfortunately is another hot bed of corruption."

Will Wilfred’s Association Pay?
On Monday’s newscast, we told you how Justice Sonya Young awarded $260,000 in damages to the family of 5 year-old Brenae Timmons. She’s the toddler from Belize City who suffered severe brain injury in January of 2016 when the huge iron gate at the Samuel Haynes Institute fell on top of her. She continues to recover from that incident, but even months after several surgeries and rehabilitation, she may never truly get back to where she was before she was nearly crushed to death by the gate.  As we told you, the judge has ordered contractor Brian Espat, who installed the gate, and the Pickstock Development Association, which owns the property, to pay this money. The association’s Executive Director is Barbara Elrington, wife of Foreign Affairs Minister Wilfred Elrington.  The non-profit organization was set up to assist those needy residents in Elrington’s Pickstock constituency, and he told us today, that he doesn’t think the Association will be able to pay the Timmons family that quantum. He agrees however that Brenae and her family deserves that money. Here’s what he had to say when we asked him about the ruling against his wife’s association:

Civic and The Storm To Come
We spoke with Elrington when he joined NEMO Minister Edmond Castro on a tour of the Belize Civic Center - which is being reviewed for emergency purposes. It’s part of Castro’s tour and inspection of all of Belize City’s emergency facilities, in preparation for the Hurricane season.  At the end of the tour, Castro told the press that the intention of the Government is that, in the event of a hurricane or some other natural disaster, the Civic - which is built to withstand a category four hurricane -will be used to house security services as well as the KHMH’s most critical emergency services.: Hon. Edmond Castro: "The purpose of today's tour is a combination of NEMO and CEMO touring the civic center and some of the other possible sites for the EOC in case of emergency and shelters for the most vulnerable, in the hospital KHMH and other medical institutions, the police, the BDF, the coast guard and to see how best in the event of a category 3, 4 or 5 that we could take care of those people and be back quickly to respond to those who are in need."

Will CEMO Be Allowed Into Civic?
So, with all the national emergency services being housed at the CIVIC, will the Government allow the PUP City Council a bit of space to set up their Emergency Operating Center? You’ll remember that, last week, Mayor Bernard Wagner told the press that they’ve been having some difficulties getting a final written commitment permitting them to set up an emergency operation’s base at the CIVIC. When the media asked Castro about it, he gave a sort of non-committal response: Hon. Edmond Castro - NEMO Minister: "CEMO falls under NEMO and actually with 2 or 3 thousand people here we will have to have some kind of command center. It might not be the best suited for be used strictly for a EOC...”

NEMO Supporting Fire Affected Families
Today’s interview also gave us the opportunity to ask Castro about the 4 members of the Nuñez/Bacab family who perished in the San Pedro fire yesterday morning. While the island continues to come to terms with this quadruple tragedy, there are survivors who were left homeless. 2 houses, one of them a 2-storey structure, were completely destroyed. A third house received extensive fire damage, but it is still standing. NEMO Minister Edmond Castro told us what his ministry will be doing for the fire victims: Hon. Edmond Castro - NEMO Minister: "First of all I must give my condolences to the family for those people out in San Pedro and I will be brief, I will be getting my brief from the fire department as to what went good and what went wrong and see how we could best improve. Each time there is an emergency or fire we try to sit down and see how best we could and do a better job next time."

Firetrucks Past the Point Of Repair
You’ll also remember the frank conversation that the press had with the Station Officer Orin Smith about the adequacy of the Fire Department’s response to the deadly fire on San Pedro. Once again, the firefighters were put on blast for their performance, and the fact is that they ran out of water during a time when 3 houses were either on fire, or almost completely destroyed by the blaze. A bucket brigade had to do some of the heavy lifting after the fire truck left to try and find an open water source.  Now, to be clear, this is not the fire department’s fault; we live in a country where there is very poor planning and few to no fire hydrants in residential communities, or just about anywhere.  Truth is, a fire truck can only carry so much water; it can’t carry the whole sea.  In this case, the fire truck couldn’t pull water from the sea, they had to use a pool.  

From GSU Chokehold to Criminal Charge
Last night we showed you that viral video of a member of the GSU putting a man in a chokehold.  Well, that was 21 year old Ryan Rhaburn - and today he went to court charged for aggravated assault and threatening words upon PC Timothy Roaches.   Represented by attorney Arthur Saldivar, Rhaburn surprised the court when he pleaded not guilty to aggravated assault upon the officer but GUILTY to threatening words.  He is accused of telling PC Roaches were, “Yuh wah feel. Ah don mark yuh face. I wah kill yuh.” But after the facts were read to him in court, and Magistrate Trapp asked Rhaburn if he agreed with the facts, at this point, his attorney, Saldivar stood and said, based on the facts read out in court, he will advise his client to change his plea.

Homeless Shoplifter in Hopeless Situation
Two nights ago we showed you the vagrant who police chased down after he shoplifted at an Albert Street store. Well, yesterday, they took 44-year-old homeless man Denroy Ingram to court for stealing $22.80 in clothing from Juanita’s Outlet on Albert Street.   Ingram appeared before Magistrate, Khadeen Palmer and wasted no time in pleading guilty to theft.  Magistrate Palmer fined him $200 dollars, which he has to pay by August 30, 2018, or serve 2 months in prison.  If the homeless man is unable to pay - which seems likely - he will go back to jail, where he first served a stint in 2007, when he went to jail for theft and burglary.

Protecting The Protectors
Doctor checkups are something police officers seldom get the chance to do due to their busy and demanding schedules. And the perils of long, stressful hours are well known.   That’s why Southside Commander Senior Superintendent Howell Gillett decided to do something about it.  He worked out a partnership with Word of Work Ministries in the United States for a few doctors to come down to Belize and give Police officers a check-up - right at the station! Over 100 officers got a wellness check-up today. We stopped by to find out more about this initiative. Sr. Supt. Howell Gillett - Southside Commander: "What we are doing for them is all of us know that our officers are working long hours and it is hard for them to take the time to go to the hospital where they will have to wait in another line so we decided to partner with a group of Americans through the church word of work to bring a doctor here at the Racoon Street Police Station..."

Interconnection Forum in Belize
Caribbean Peering and Interconnection Forum: it was established 4 years ago and this year the forum is being held in Belize for the first time. Internet providers and managers from all over the Caribbean are attending the forum at the Radisson to talk about internet cost, access and efficiency so you, the consumers can benefit. We dropped by to find out more.

Mexicans Making Road Checks
If you drive regularly to Chetumal and other parts of Mexico, you’ll have to start obeying their traffic laws, or else, you could start facing penalties for it. This morning, Mexico’s Secretariat of Communications and Transportation began conducting vehicle inspections of any Belizean vehicles which passed by Route 182 near Subteniente Lopez, which is the main highway that takes you into Chetumal. These inspections are intended to encourage Belizean drivers to register and comply with the requirements of the October 2017 MOU signed between Belize and Mexico on International Motor Carrier, Passenger and Freight Transportation.  The Mexican authorities want Belizeans who frequently travel by road into their country to get the appropriate registration, license and vehicle insurance.

Alleged Cop Killer Will Stand Trial
He is accused of killing a policeman at the Raccoon Street Station and 47 year old Marcial Toledo will stand trial for the murder of 49 year old police constable Marvin Locke in the October session of the Supreme Court.   At the end of a preliminary inquiry today, the Chief Magistrate, Sharon Fraser, committed Toledo to trial.   In March of 2017, Toledo fatally stabbed Constable Locke in broad daylight at the Raccoon Street Police Station.  Toledo waited for Locke at the station, hugged Locke like a friend and then allegedly stabbed him several times in his chest and abdomen. Toledo was subdued by a police officer who struck on his head with a cement block. According to reports, Locke was having an affair with Toledo's common-law wife. Toledo was not represented by any attorney at the preliminary inquiry.

Senator Val & “Those PUP Men”
The Albert PUP convention is only a few days away - and it is among the most hotly contested political contests of the PUP convention season.  That’s partially because two blue Senators are facing off, but also because it’s one of the only contests that pits a female newcomer candidate, Valerie Woods against a male veteran, Paul Thompson.  The sexual politics are inescapable, and Woods told us they are a defining factor in this contest:… Hon. Valerie Woods, PUP Aspirant - Albert: "See it for what it is, the boys club, they don't want this woman to come in their turf, I the bring it and I the bring it hard."

Channel 5

Breaking: A Fatal RTA near Rhaburn’s Ridge Claims the Life of a Female Motorist.
Shortly after four o’clock this afternoon, there was a deadly traffic accident near Rhaburn Ridge on the Phillip Goldson Highway. Police can only confirm at this point that one person [...]

San Pedranos Gather to Mourn the Loss of 4 Persons in a Deadly Overnight House Fire
The death of four family members in a horrible fire in San Pedro is being felt throughout the tightly knit community in San Pedro. A mother, her two children and [...]

Why is the Prime Tourism Island without Adequate Equipment and Services to Fight Fires?
As the family grieves their sudden loss, sharp questions arise as to the state of essential services on the island. The fire trucks were not able to tackle the inferno [...]

Minister Sedi Elrington Says Latest Cabinet Reshuffle is to Ensure Expediency at Lands Department
Tuesday’s announcement of yet another reshuffling of ministerial portfolios prompted by a sudden change in the top layer in the Ministry of Natural Resources is being met with serious concerns.  [...]

‘Clear the Land’ Castro Says Decision to Reassign Dr. Carla Barnett was PM’s Prerogative
Minister Edmond Castro, himself a fairly new minister, when asked to weigh in on the latest round of ministerial musical chairs, told the media that the prime minister has the [...]

Petrocaribe Program Comes to an End, Belize’s Agreement with Venezuela Remains Intact
A report in the Antigua Observer is causing shivers in some parts of the Caribbean.  The report states that the island has received word that the largesse of the Petrocaribe [...]

Government Explains Why Fuel Prices Won’t Be Going Down Anytime Soon
And while on the issue of fuel, the Ministry of Finance says it will not be possible, at least not soon, to consider a decrease in taxes connected to fuel [...]

Baby Dashawn Dwehene is Released from K.H.M.H. after Being Shot by His Father in Gales Point
Baby Dashawn Dwehene from Gales Point Manatee was discharged today from the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital where he had been recovering from a gunshot wound to the back. Over the [...]

Brenae’s Injury Compensation, Can the Quarter Million Dollar Award be Paid?
On Monday, Justice Sonya Young handed down a decision in favor of five-year-old Brenae Timmons.  As a toddler, she suffered severe brain injury when an iron gate fell on her [...]

Pickstock Area Rep Says Samuel Haynes Institute May Be in Danger of Closing Down
The Pickstock Development Association provides services to residents of the Pickstock and Lake Independence communities, primarily through after school initiatives, gardening and coffin-making. Elrington says that as many as a [...]

A Trade License Standoff between CitCo and Apex over the Business of the Civic Center
The Civic Center has been in use since officially opening its doors on April thirtieth.  The largest and most expensive public building in the country is being run by a [...]

Gilroy Usher Sr. Responds to Boots’ Vicious Jabs
The P.U.P. standard bearer for Port Loyola, Gilroy Usher Senior, has responded to statements made about him by Minister Anthony Boots Martinez.  In a brief statement, Usher Senior says that [...]

A Toddler Drowns Inside a Pit in Southern Belize
A young girl lost her life in Bella Vista Village in the Toledo District to drowning on Tuesday afternoon. Three-year-old Abigail Elizabeth Lopez Umania was found lifeless in a well [...]

Civic Center is Green Lighted by NEMO for Emergency Operations during Natural Disasters
Sporting and other activities have already been put off at the Civic Center in Belize City where sport aficionados have been enjoying the comfort of the multipurpose facility. Today, the [...]

5 Female Inmates are Certified Yogis
Today, five women in prison were officially certified as yoga instructors after two years of intensive classes conducted by non-profit yoga organization Rhythm of Change. There are thirty-seven women incarcerated [...]

Annual Taiwanese Scholarship Recipients are Announced
Twenty-nine Belizeans have been awarded full scholarships to pursue studies in Taiwan. The Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund Scholarship Programme and the Taiwan Scholarship Programme are providing recipients with [...]

Annual Internet Forum Draws Regional Networks Operators to Belize
Today, the first day of the fourth annual Caribbean Peering and Interconnection Forum kicked off in Belize City. The regional event, that is coordinated by the Caribbean Network Operators Group, [...]

Quality and Cost of Internet are Discussed at CarPIF
Quality and cost of internet in the region are also among the topics being discussed at CarPIF this year. While there have been significant strides made in these two areas [...]

LOVE FM

Belizean caught in US immigration raid
Belizeans were among a group of persons who were detained in an immigration raid on Sunday in Texas, USA. Online reports say that Border Patrol agents, working in collaboration with the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Mission Police Department, identified a suspected stash house operating out of a residence in Mission, Texas. A total of …

NCFC says gun violence against children appears to be increasing in a disturbing trend
The National Committee for Families and Children (NCFC) says that Gun violence against children whether intentional or accidental appears to be increasing in a disturbing trend. The NCFC’s latest statement comes after a four month old baby boy was accidentally shot by his father with a pellet gun at their home in Gales Point Village. …

GOB says it cannot reduce fuel tax
Pump prices for fuel have increased several times in the past few weeks and the Government says it cannot control factors which contribute to those increases. The Government says that the main contributing factor, global acquisition costs for fuel, has increased rapidly in the past few months. Several entities such as the Belize Chamber of …

International finance expert has advice to grow Belize’s economy
The Government of Belize said that if it reduces fuel tax by two dollars it would translate to a loss of seventy million dollars in revenue. This, according to the government, has the potential to completely de-fund the Judiciary, and the Ministries of Human Development, Agriculture, Transport and NEMO, and Works. It says that public …

CarPIF held in Belize City
acilatThe Caribbean Peering and Interconnection Forum (CarPif) was held today in Belize City. It’s a first-of-its kind event for the region to specifically address the interconnection challenges and opportunities in the Caribbean. The unique forum provides participants with regional as well as global insights on how the Caribbean can maximize the opportunities that can be …

Mexican officials to inspect vehicles entering Mexico
Starting today and for the rest of the week, Mexican officials will be carrying out inspections of passenger and commercial vehicles which enter Mexico through Belize. The inspection will take place at the Subteniente López on Route 186 in Chetumal. Press and Legal Affairs Officer for the Mexican Embassy Hugo Juarez Carrillo says that the …

Toddler drowns in Bella Vista Village
A three year old girl drowned in Bella Vista Village in the Toledo District at around 1 o’clock yesterday. Abigail Elizabeth Lopez Umania was found dead in a pit about three feet deep and filled with water. The discovery was made by the mother, 24 year old Rosa Cisneros. The girl was taken to the …

Brhea Bowen launches constitutional challenge
Brhea Bowen is suing the Belize Police Department for emotional distress. In 2012, when she was a teenager, she was detained by police officers after a search was conducted at her home. She was not present at the time of the search but was still detained after police found a firearm. She was detained for …

Who will be the next leader of the UDP?
Prime Minister Patrick Faber and Minister of National Security, John Saldivar, last month a third name was thrown out when Hugo Patt entered the conversation. Yesterday the media asked Belize Rural North area representative, Edmond Castro and Port Loyola area representative Anthony Martinez who they will be supporting for the position. Edmond Castro – Belize …

The Reporter

Serious traffic accident reported on Philip Goldson highway
A serious traffic accident occurred this evening on the George Price highway and it has reportedly left one person serious injured. The accident occurred near mile 39 and information reaching the Reporter is that the vehicle, reportedly a blue Chevy Tracker, careened off the highway […]

Breaking Belize News

Twenty-nine Belizeans awarded scholarships to Taiwan
Today, the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in Belize announced that 29 Belizeans have […]

3-year-old infant drowns in Bella Vista, Toledo
Police in Toledo are investigating the drowning of a three-year-old infant. According to reports, Rosa Cisneros,24, a […]

Ministry of Transport advises Belizeans on checking inspections to be done in Mexico
The Ministry of Transport is advising Belizeans that from Wednesday, June 13 to Friday June […]

Venezuela suspends Petrocaribe initiative with Belize
International media outlets are reporting that there are dark days ahead for countries benefitting from […]

Our Circle Launches new projects to strengthen LGBT community
Our Circle, an LGBT advocacy group based in Belize, is launching two new projects aimed […]

National Committee of Families and Children issues statement on 4-month-old shot by father
The National Committee for Families and Children (NCFC) is calling on parents and the society to […]

Blogs

Where to Find the Best Beaches in Belize
Belize is well-known for its famous Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, second only to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. For decades adventurous scuba divers and anglers have vacationed in Belize, in pursuit of their favorite marine sports. But this tiny country also has some fine beaches. But they aren’t always obvious to the first-time tourist. Fortunately, the majority of Belize’s beaches are public and accessible. The 60-foot strip of beachfront adjoining the Caribbean Sea is usually public property. Some exceptional beaches are hidden, hard to reach, or located on remote cayes. The small, remote cayes tend to be protected parks or privately owned. You’ll need a boat to find them. Amongst the four regions described below, you’ll likely find a beach to meet your expectations. So here’s a quick overview of the best beach regions, and beaches, of Belize…

Effective Hurricane Preparedness 2018
As we know, a hurricane is a massive storm system formed over warm waters that makes landfall. Hurricanes include potential threats such as powerful winds, heavy rainfall, flooding, rip currents, storm surges and inland landslides. In the Caribbean, hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th. Therefore, during that period of time, we are on extra alert. Back in 2016, Hurricane Earl did serious damage to Belize and its neighboring islands like San Pedro and Caye Caulker. Though we did our best to prepare, Mother Nature was in full control. Thus far, we have gotten word that the 2018 Hurricane Season should be average with 14 named storms, 7 of which should develop into hurricanes and 3 out of the 7 to be major hurricanes – CAT 3 +. With that said, let’s discuss effective hurricane preparedness with a few tips below.

Belize Diving
Belize is one of the top locations in the world for diving as the country has more than 200 miles of gorgeous coral reefs, sandy atolls, and tropical islands located in the Caribbean Sea. Indeed, a team from National Geographic is currently in Belize in order to shoot video and photographs for an upcoming guidebook on the top dive sites in the world. If you're interested in scuba diving in Belize, here are some of the top sites:

Common Languages Spoken in Belize
Belize is completely different than all of its neighbors in Central America because English is the official language of Belize. All government communiques, road signs, and official documents in the country are written in English, but in practice, most residents of Belize speak Kriol as their first language. In addition, most Belizeans are fluent in two or more languages. Sometimes spelled Creole, Kriol is much more than just a dialect of English. Although Kriol is relatively easy to parse when written, it can be difficult to understand for people who only speak standard English. However, most people in Belize can speak standard English and use it when communicating with visitors from other countries.

International Sources

El Salvador prosecutors order arrest of ex-president Funes
Prosecutors in El Salvador have ordered the arrests of former President Mauricio Funes and 30 members of his inner circle on a range of corruption charges for allegedly siphoning $351 million from public coffers, the Attorney General’s Office announced Friday. The 31 arrest orders include Funes’ private secretary, his long-time partner Ada Mitchelle Guzman Siguenza, his ex-wife Regina Canas and two of Funes’ sons. “In the government of Mauricio Funes there were serious and outrageous cases of corruption in which they extracted $351 million from public accounts,” said Salvadoran Attorney General Douglas Menendez.

Eight Caribbean beauties in NY beauty pageant
Eight Caribbean Community (CARICOM) beauties will compete for the 2018 Miss New York Continental Cultural Pageant crown at the George Wingate High School auditorium in Brooklyn on Jun. 23. According to Yvonne Peters, the Vincentian-born president and founder of the Brooklyn-based organizing group, Caribbean American Cultural Group, Inc., the contestants hail from Belize, Guyana, Jamaica, Haiti, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The contestants are: Reality Dopwell (Miss Belize); Breana Maxwell (Miss Jamaica); Shanah Forbes (Miss Jamaica); Jamela (Miss Guyana); Maya Grant (Miss Kingstown, St. Vincent); Kaiia Krysta Phillips (Miss Greggs, St. Vincent); Makeda Peters (Miss St Vincent & the Grenadines); and Kimberly Thomas (Miss Haiti).

Videos

June 13, 2018

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, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials

The San Pedro Sun

Public Service hosts a successful 2018 Fair
The public service sector held its annual fair under the theme: “Moving Towards the future with innovation, dedication and perseverance” at the Central Park in San Pedro Town on Friday, June 8th. The event was held as way to highlight the importance of the public service in our society. At 9AM, different government departments began to showcase their work and interact with the public, while receiving feedback on ways to further improve their services.

Four Perish in Early Morning Fire in Escalante Subdivision
The San Pedro Town community is in mourning following the tragic death of four persons when a fire completely destroyed their home located in the Escalante Subdivision early on Tuesday, June 12th. Neighbors report that homeowner David Nuñez and his son Samir Nuñez who were badly injured, were able to make it out, but sadly his wife Clara Bacab-Nuñez and son Allan Nuñez (14) and daughter Mia Nuñez (6), and niece Sherley Bacab (16) remained trapped inside the burning structure. Downstairs of the building, tenant Tracy Cruz managed to escape through the bathroom window with her two young children.

Ambergris Today

Fire Victim Hospitalized And SPHS Holds Vigil For Nunez Family
David Nunez and his son Samir Nunez (16 years old) were able to get out of the blazing house but sadly the fire claimed the lives of David’s wife Clara Nunez Bacab, his son Allan Nunez (14 years old), his daughter Mia Nunez (6 years old) and Shirley Bacab (niece of David and Clara). The Nunez’s residence had tenants in the apartment on the first floor, a couple with two children, who managed to safely get out of the building. A vigil was held at the Angel Nunez Auditorium on Tuesday evening where students, staff and members of the community gathered to pay their respects to the Nunez family. San Pedro High mourned the death of a dear friend, a free spirited individual, an excellent student – Allan Nunez. The choir shared beautiful songs and friends and teachers remembered Allan and shared great stories and memories which they will cherish forever. “Allan and family – gone too soon but will not be forgotten.”

Government And People Of Belize Recognized For Leadership In Offshore Oil Ban
As part of national activities commemorating World Oceans Day 2018, Oceana in Belize and the Belize Coalition to Save Our Natural Heritage officially recognized the Government and people of Belize for their collective leadership in establishing the world’s first indefinite moratorium against offshore oil. The Ocean Champion award was formally presented to Rt. Hon. Prime Minister Dean Barrow during ceremonies in Belize City on Saturday, June 9, 2018.

Tragic Fire Claims The Life Of Four
According to witnesses, the fire started at about 2:45 a.m. in a two-storey building belonging to David Nunez. The fire quickly engulfed his house and with the strong winds passed on to the adjadent house. Neighbors rushed to help in a bucket brigade and had exhausted all their water supply (from water wells in the neighborhood) when the Fire Department finally made its way to the scene at about 4:10 a.m. The island community mourns along with a husband who lost his wife, son and daughter and a family relative in the fire. Officials are still on the scene working on retrieving the bodies from the all the rubble. More on this story as it becomes available.

Misc Belizean Sources

First Annual Banana Festival
The mighty banana is worth celebrating! Friday and Saturday June 15th and 16th, San Juan Village. Massive Banana Costume Parade on Saturday!

Office of the Prime Minister Announces Cabinet Changes
Pursuant to a request from the Hon. Dr. Carla Barnett to be reassigned from her current position as Minister of State in the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Office of the Prime Minister announces the following Cabinet changes: The Hon. Hugo Patt is being appointed the new Minister of Natural Resources and as a result will relinquish his current portfolio of Labour, Local Government, Rural Development, Energy, Public Utilities, Public Service, and Elections and Boundaries. That portfolio will now be assumed by the Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow. The Hon. Frank Mena will continue as Minister of State in that Ministry with de facto charge of Public Utilities, Energy, Public Service, and Elections and Boundaries.

Summer Creative Programming Camp
Looking for something for your child to do over the summer break? CITO will be hosting its Summer Creative Programming Camp from July 9th to August 3rd!

Sarteneja Fisher Fair 2018
As part of the final activity for the Fisherfolk Month, SACD and its partner organizations would like to invite the general public to the "Sarteneja Fisher Fair 2018." when? Saturday, June 30, 2018! where? Sarteneja Almendro Park! Time? Starting at 10am.... Under Theme, “Working towards zero hunger with sustainable small-scale fisheries!”

Ancient World Week
Ju;y 16-19, Corozal

Lets Run for Allen
The Belize Cancer Society is having the Lets Run for Allen fundraising run on Sunday, June 17th, for Allen Roberson, who is fighting a brain tumor. The run will go from La Loma Luz boulevard to Galvez Stadium. All of the proceeds go towards Allen's medical expenses. Registration is only $20, and a it comes with a t-shirt. Call Ms. Chicki at 662-2191 for more information.

World Cup
Central TV & Internet Customers here are the Channels to watch the World Cup 2018! We're only a few days away from the first match of this summer's highly-anticipated tournament 2018 FiFa World Cup- Russia.

It is Tree Tuesday and we are featuring the Cedar tree (Cedrela odorata).
When Cedar trees are young the bark is smooth and their bark can become deeply fissured with age. Left alone, the trees can live more than 100 years and become quite large – more than 1 meter in diameter. The timber of Cedrela odorata is famous for use in making musical instruments, light construction, veneer, and plywood. It’s Red Listed as Vulnerable due to high rates of logging and deforestation across its range. Trade of the species is regulated by CITES, which means that countries exporting cedar must have permits proving the harvest was sustainable. Exports also must be value-added products rather than raw lumber. Cedar is found all over Belize and is commonly planted on farms in Toledo, along with mahogany as a long term investment.

CCRC School students received stipend from GOB
This is just the beginning of your journey towards your education. Congratulations to Enrique Navarette (1st) and Valerie Marin (2nd) and all the students who sat the PSE. Congratulations! You all surely made your school teachers proud of the hard work and dedication that you put into your study work. It was not easy but you did it. Hats off to all Standard Six students of CCRC School.

SAN PEDRO COMMUNITY RESPONDS TO DEVASTATING FIRE IN ESCALANTE SUB-DIVISION
In a joint initiative, the San Pedro Town Council, Belize Red Cross San Pedro Branch and NEMO are organizing a response to the devastating fire in the Escalante Sub-Division that occurred at approximately at 2:45 in the morning on June 12, 2018. Through the San Pedro Town Council, UNICEF will be providing psychosocial support to the affected families and the same support will also be given to students from the San Pedro R. C. School and the San Pedro High School for their tragic loss of members of their school community as an initial response. After necessary assessments have taken place, the San Pedro Town Council will conduct an immediate clean up of the affected area.

Belize governments have failed their dual citizens
BY WELLINGTON C. RAMOS. Up until the late 1970’s the largest ethnic group in Belize were Belizeans of African descent which comprised the Garifuna and Creole people. Belize also have a small population of East Indians, Native Mayas, Mestizos, Mennonites and Chinese that makeup its estimated population of about 390,000 people. During that period of time, the Creoles dominated the Civil Service branches of government and were prominent politicians in both the People’s United Party (PUP) and the United Democratic Party (UDP) but that has changed to Mestizos. Around that same period, civil wars were occurring in; Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador and Nicaragua. As result of these conflicts, the citizens of these countries began to migrate to the United States in huge numbers. Those from El Salvador and Guatemala who could not reach the United States, decided to settle in Belize. Due to the economic conditions in Belize and the demand by some Belizeans in Belize to join their relatives in the United States, Belizeans of African descent (Creole and Garifuna) were migrating to the United States in large numbers.

BHA 2018 Annual General Meeting
The BHA is hosting its 2018 Annual General Meeting on Tuesday July 3, from 1:00 PM to 5:30 PM at the Black Orchid Resort in Burrell Boom. You are invited to join us to hear what the BHA has planned for our upcoming membership year! Keynote Speaker- Stephanie Rest CEO and Founder of Caribbean WE, and Guest Speaker Martha Valdivia of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association. Belize Hotel Association - The BHA is hosting its 2018 Annual General Meeting on Tuesday July 3, from 1:00 PM to 5:30 PM at the Black Orchid Resort in Burrell Boom. You are invited to join us to hear what the BHA has planned for our upcoming membership year!

Belize International Jazz Festival 2018
June 17 – 24, Sunday June 17/11:30AM-2PM. Sunday Brunch @ Radisson. With Canatus Sax Quintet from Cuba. Monday June 18 / 8-11PM. Welcome Jam Session. Mexican Institute: (Mexico, Cuba, USA & Belize)

The work continues!
The students are fulfilling their objects to teach our students and communities in their respective field of studies such as Tourism, Community Health, Business Development, and Mayan Language. The students were also present at Norte Vision on Monday, May 11, 2018, to speak about what they are doing and what has been accomplished at the different communities. Thanks to Sugah City Morning Show, Eduardo Martinez and Faustino Yam for your collaboration. Special thanks go to Cristo Rey School for allowing the students to impart their knowledge at their school.

Channel 7

How!? Four Perish in House Fire
How could four people - three of them children - die in a house fire? That's what the town of San Pedro and all of Belize are asking tonight. The tragedy happened last night on the southern part of the island town - and tonight fire authorities don't yet know what caused the fire. Daniel Ortiz went to the island looking for answers and found the imprint of loss everywhere:... 4 members of the Nunez-Bacab Family perished last night here at this home in the Escalante subdivision of San Pedro, about 3 to 4 miles south of the main downtown area. It's the type of ghastly tragedy that no family would ever want to face, but last night, there was nothing that these 4 victims could do to save themselves.

No Cause of Fire Found Yet
Like we said, the cause of the fire is not known as this time. But there are many more, equally pressing issues which the Fire Department has to answer. First, they responded a good many minutes after the fire is reported to have started. Second, they ran out of water. Today the Station Officer explained that time gap, and how they ended up having to draw water from a pool:... Reporter: "You said 3:30am you guys got the call and responded, but the fire started from 2:45am." Orin Smith, Station Officer: "Again, the national fire service - we really won't know when a fire actually starts. Our time starts when we received that information of the fire and then based on that our response time begins. However, on the scene, based on what you just said, I am sure that by the time they arrive on the scene they couldn't have been a rescue mounted, if the fire had in deed started that long ahead."

Hon. Patt Ascendant In New Cabinet Configuration as Barrow Bows To Barbarians
Tonight, the Barrow Administration has its fourth minister of Natural Resources in two years and 7 months. And it is most unexpected: a relatively junior Minister Hugo Patt will now take over the powerful Natural Resources portfolio. He takes the place of no less than Prime Minister Dean Barrow - who was the Minister in name only - and Minister of State Dr. Carla Barnett who was running the day to day operations of the Ministry. Prime Minister Barrow now takes Patt's decidedly un-glamorous portfolio of Labour, Local Government, Rural Development, Energy, Public Utilities, Public Service, and Elections and Boundaries - where he will be assisted by Frank Mena, who continues as Minister of State responsible for Public Utilities, Energy, Public Service, and Elections and Boundaries, while Dr. Barnett takes responsibility for Labour, Local Government and Rural Development.

PUP Warns Agains Expediency
And the PUP fired off a release this evening demanding answers for the shuffle. The opposition says, quote, "we caution the Prime Minister against making critical moves for political showmanship and expediency rather than for efficiency and good governance….the PUP calls on Prime Minister Barrow…to explain…the reasons for this latest reshuffle.

DPP Wants Cahueque Back In Jail
Aracely Cahueque: if her name doesn't ring a bell what she was accused of surely will. Caheque is said to have been the master mind behind the October 2010 killing of 18 year old Raylene Dyer. The narrative is that Cahueque hired 3 men to kill Dyer so she could take her child. The men allegedly decapitated Dyer and threw her body in the Roaring Creek River. It was one of the most chilling murders in memory. Well, the case went back before the court today with the DPP trying to appeal Cahueque's 2014 acquittal. We'll tell you about that shortly, but first for some background: as we have reported, based on the strength of a confession, police had charged 21 year old Darren Banner, 20 year old Jason Anderson and 24 year old Brandon Budna. But they later walked from the charge of murder. As for Cahueque, she was also set free. That is because the statement from the prosecutor's key witness was ruled inadmissible.

Roaring Creek Resident Charged For Shooting Man In Face
Belmopan police have charged an 18 year old for the attempted murder of 22 year old Burrell Boom resident Eugene Henderson Jr. He is Roaring Creek resident Rudolph Welcome. As we have reported Henderson went to Roaring Creek on Saturday to attend a memorial service for his missing cousin Oswald Arnold. But that night, Welcome allegedly jumped the fence, crept to the back door which was open and shot Henderson to the head while he slept on the sofa by the door. Miraculously, Henderson survived the shotgun blast. Doctors say he has a 50/50 chance of survival. we will keep following this case.

Moon robbers Arraigned
Police have closed the case on the Moon Grocery Robbery on Coney Drive. Two men have been charged with 2 counts of robbery. They are 18 year old Rikish Rimani Rhaburn and 19 year old Kentroy Mckoy. They were taken to court today and they pleaded not guilty. Magistrate Palmer asked both men if they had a special reason why they should be granted bail at this time and neither could provide special reasons so they were denied bail and remanded into custody at the Belize Central Prison until August, 2018. The incident happened on Saturday evening. Rhaburn and Mckoy along with another man allegedly pounced on Moon Grocery Store on Coney Drive. The 50-year-old owner, Guo Jin Li told police that One of them pulled out a gun and demanded money. Li complied and forked over $700 in cash. The robbers then held up two customers who had the bad luck of being in the store.

Joe’s Store Robbers Ran This Time
And there was another attempt to rob a Chinese store on the Northside - not far from Creole Waggans on E street which was held up earlier in the day. It happened at Joe's Store on 17th Street in King's Park. According to a worker, at 8:00 pm, they pulled the store's grill door for safety. But last night around 8:30 two men came and wanted money not groceries. The worker immediately called the police and the robbers fled the scene. Back in December, we told you about an unsuccessful robbery at the store when the owner pulled out his gun and fired two shots at a pair of robbers.

Managing Disaster Risk In A Business Setting
The Hurricane Season began on June first, and many homeowners have started taking precautions against any potential hurricanes. Homes aren't the only places that need protection, so do businesses. But how do they protect themselves? And is there really hope for their business after a hurricane? Well, today they found out the answers to all those questions at a Disaster Risk Management conference. Shajira McCoy, Manager of Export Belize: "BELTRAIDE under a project with the OAS is having a workshop that talk about business continuity planning so what that is how does the business continue after disaster and particularly we have been talking so far about Natural Disasters as everyone would know in this region and in even in Belize we have started the hurricane season for example and they are looking at what does a business do they face a disaster and continue and not to shut down."

Brian Hyde Gets Four Life Sentences In Florida
Roaring Creek resident Brian Hyde has been sentenced to life in prison in Florida. In April, the 22 year old was found guilty of killing his aunt, Dorla Pitts, her 17 year old daughter, Starlette Pitts and her 19 year old boyfriend Michael Deon Kelly Jr in Florida. He was sentenced yesterday to four life terms - for the deaths of those three and his cousin Starlette Pitts' unborn child. Hyde used a machete to kill 37-year-old Dorla Pitts, 17-year-old Starlette Pitts and 19-year-old Michael Deon Kelly Jr. at their Lehigh Acres home in 2015. Prosecutors added the additional murder charge for Starlette Pitts' unborn child.

Did GSU Use Excessive Force Or Was It Justified?
For almost 24 hours now, a video has been going viral on Facebook showing GSU officers detaining a Belize City man - while his lady friend screams. Now, depending on who you ask, the force they used to restrain him is either excessive, questionable, or reasonable given the circumstances. But, as you can see, the man is conversation with the GSU officers, and then one of them comes up and grabs him around the neck in a chokehold. The officer then proceeds to carry him, to their police mobile, until they both fall to the ground. Pretty rough stuff, but Deputy Police Commissioner Chester Williams told us today, that the video only shows half of the story. When we caught up with him in San Pedro, he said that the video conveniently omits how this same man allegedly resisted arrest.

Don’t Forget The Fisherwomen
The commercial fishermen of Belize are legend and legion. They haul the most prized catch and bring it to our markets or our favourite eateries. But that's only half the story; fishermen aren't the only ones bringing in the meat. Fisherwomen are too. Lately, many women have taken up the profession to provide for their families. As part of Fisherfolk month, the women took place in the second annual Women in Fisheries Forum today at the Biltmore. We stopped by and found out more about this year's forum. Ronda Lewis, WCS Assistant Country Director: "This year we are taking it a little bit further and looking at how we can mainstream gender in the fisheries sector. We are still looking back at that gender action plan and some of the key areas that we identified such as research, communications and so on so today one of the main things we are doing is highlighting in the small-scale fisheries guidelines which looks at securing sustainable small-scale fisheries in the context of food security and poverty eradication."

Senator Val Takes On Senator Paul and Deputy Cordel
Last week, the PUP's National Deputy, Cordel Hyde came out swinging for Senator Paul Thompson - who's facing a challenge in the Albert division form his fellow PUP Senator Valerie Woods. Woods had made a political ad out of an endorsement Hyde gave her some years ago at a party function. So, Hyde had to step up and say he was with Paul Thompson, not Valerie Woods. He told us he was setting the record straight, but today on the campaign trail, Senator Woods said words have meaning and the special ones he reserved for her, he never gave to his friend Paul Thompson:...

Fire Truck In A Bad Way
It's no secret that the Fire Department is running around in some twenty, thirty, and forty year old fire trucks. It's the sad truth and recently one of the twenty year old ones was seen with a broken chassis. we asked about it:... Reporter: "Sir, do you all have a fire truck with a broken chassis? We have seen a fire truck on social media making the rounds. But do you all, or is it your station that has the fire truck we've seen on social media that look like it is bowing and can't recite?" Orin Smith: "The fire department is not a private entity and we serve the public. I would gladly invite you to all our stations is you would like and literally see what we have. In fact, the truck is there now. You can go and take a look at it."

Sam Rhaburn, “Among the few and the last decent people in politics…”
And before we leave tonight, we note the passing of former UDP Minister and Parliamentarian Sam Rhaburn. He died on Sunday around 3:00 AM in Crooked Tree Village of complications following a stroke. Rhaburn was swept into office in the UDP's first ever general election victory in 1984 - taking the seat from former 5 term representative Fred Hunter - and becoming the first UDP to hold the seat. He won a second term in 1989 - even when the UDP lost. But in 1993, when the UDP won, Rhaburn lost by a narrow margin of only 4 votes to Maxwell Samuels.

Channel 5

Mother, Kids, Niece Trapped in Deadliest House Fire in a Decade
The San Pedro community has been left devastated by one of the most ferocious fires in the island and elsewhere in the country. The blaze erupted at about two-forty-five this [...]

Firefighters Ran Out of Water; Single Stairs was Only Exit
As the hellish fire raged, the community formed a bucket brigade to assist the Fire Department to fight the uncontrolled blaze. The fire trucks ran out of water but another [...]

Assistance Pouring in for Survivors
The response to the devastating fire has been fast as residents come together at this difficult time. The Town Council, Belize Red Cross San Pedro Branch and NEMO have all [...]

Cabinet Reshuffles: Hugo Supplants Carla at Lands
For the fourth time in less than two years, the all-powerful Ministry of Natural Resources has a new leader. At the start of today’s Cabinet meeting in Belmopan, Prime Minister [...]

P.U.P. Believes There’s More to the Story
The Opposition People’s United Party, like the rest of the nation, says it wants answers as to why Doctor Barnett is “being demoted,” in favour of “relatively junior” Hugo Patt. [...]

G.S.U. Detained Ryan Rhaburn by Tight Chokehold
Twenty-one-year-old Ryan Rhaburn was arrested and charged along with two others on October thirtieth, 2017, concerning the robbery of a pawnshop in Belmopan a few days earlier.  Rhaburn was arraigned [...]

Are Members of Elite Unit on “Payroll” of Local Pawn Shop?
Rhaburn’s mother, who also asked not to appear on camera, makes some very bold claims against members of the police department.  Likewise, Shari Lopez accuses the owners of the pawnshop [...]

Chester Says G.S.U. Tried to Reason with Rhaburn
Deputy Commissioner of Police Chester Williams, who has viewed amateur footage of the incident, tells an entirely different story of what transpired.  He goes as far as stating that the [...]

Rudolph Welcome Charged with Attempted Murder of Eugene Henderson Jr.
Eighteen-year-old Rudolph Welcome has been remanded to the Belize Central Prison after being arraigned for the near-fatal shooting of Eugene Henderson Junior over the weekend.  On Saturday night, the twenty-three-year-old [...]

Court of Appeal Considers Abetment Re-Trial for Aracely Cahueque
She was not in court today, but twenty-three-year-old Aracely Cahueque could find herself back in front of a Belizean court, if the Court of Appeal finds that she must face [...]

2 Charged for Moon Grocery Robbery
A pair of Belize City teenagers has been remanded to the Central Prison in connection with the armed robbery of Moon Grocery Store on Coney Drive, located up the street [...]

Homeless Man Needs two hundred dollars to Pay Theft Fine
A homeless man caught stealing inside a clothing store on Albert Street avoided jail today. But forty-four-year-old Denroy Ingram is not out of danger yet as he must find two [...]

The “Port” Hotly Contested by U.D.P.
Minister Anthony ‘Boots’ Martinez is going into retirement and right about now he is observing the persons who are interested in replacing him for the U.D.P. in the Port Loyola [...]

Sargassum Killed Fish in San Pedro
There has been at least two fish kill in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. Back in May, hundreds of dead fish including permit and bonefish surfaced on the Boca Del Rio [...]

Making Fishing Industry Gender Equitable
June is fisherfolk month and a number of activities are being held across the country to engage fishers on the state of the industry. Today, the Second Annual Women in [...]

Teaching Businesses to Survive Disasters
Earlier today, forty participants, including clients of SBDC Belize and Export Belize, both units of BELTRAIDE, attended a workshop to strengthen the capacities of policy makers, business development organizations and [...]

Garifuna Language Made Easier to Teach
Over the past century, around four hundred languages have gone extinct and most linguists estimate that more than fifty percent of the world’s remaining six thousand five hundred languages will be gone [...]

LOVE FM

The importance of women in the Fishing Industry
Organized by the Marine Conservation and Climate Adaptation Project of the Fisheries Department and the Wildlife Conservation Society, the Second Annual Women in Fisheries Forum was held today in Belize City. It forms part of the Fisherfolk Month celebrations which is being held under the theme “Working Towards Zero Hunger with Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries”. The idea …

Four persons perish in San Pedro’s fire
Residents of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye are in shock after an early morning fire proved fatal. Reporter Johnelle McKenzie was on the island and has the story. Tragedy struck this morning as four members of a family perished in a fire that broke out in the Escalante Subdivision of San Pedro Town. Two families occupied …

Training MSME stakeholders in disaster management
With the aim to better prepare Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises to continue operations after a natural disaster, BELTRAIDE in collaboration with the Organization of American States, the University of West Indies for Institute of Sustainable Development and the Global Affair Canada is carrying out a training session entitled “Maintaining Comprehensive Disaster Risk Management in …

Court reserves decision in Aracely Cahueque appeal case
While she is in Costa Rica, an appeal launched against Aracely Cahueque was heard today. Four years ago, Cahueque who was charged with abetment to commit murder, was freed. She was accused of assisting in the killing of 18 year old Raylene Dyer, in 2012. Dyer’s head was cut off and her body was reportedly …

Belizean in the US gets life in prison for murder
Twenty two year old Belizean, Brian Omar Hyde was sentenced yesterday to serve four consecutive life sentences in prison in the US. He was found guilty of killing his aunt, her pregnant daughter and the daughter’s boyfriend with a machete. He was convicted in April of four counts of second-degree murder. Prosecutors say Hyde used …

PlusTV

DEADLY FIRE KILLS
We begin our News Cast tonight with a very heart breaking story coming out of San Pedro. Four persons were burnt to death in an early morning fire on the Island of San Pedro. According to reports, the fire started around 3:30 a.m. in the Escalante subdivision of San Pedro. And, While Police continue...

CABINET RE-SHUFFLING
Today, The Government of Belize issued a press release announcing a re-shuffling in the Cabinet. The re-shuffling reportedly comes after a request from Carla Barnett to be reassigned from her current position as Minister of State in the Ministry of Natural Resources. As a result, the Press Release o...

MAN IN SOCIAL MEDIA VIDEO RESISTED ARREST SAY CHESTER WILLIAMS
A video surfaced on Facebook yesterday showing three GSU officers using a great deal of force in the process of detaining a Belize City Resident. The video went viral with close to a thousand shares online and over 40 thousand views in one day. GSU officers are seen at the beginning of the video sta...

RUDOLPH WELCOME CHARGED FOR ROARING CREEK SHOOTING
Police have arrested and charged 18 year old Rudolph Welcome for the Crime of Attempted Murder in relation to Saturday evening’s shooting of 22 year old Eugene Alexander Henderson in roaring Creek. Henderson, a resident of Burell Boom, was shot to the head inside his cousin’s Roaring Creek home whil...

Brian Hyde Guilty of Second Degree Murder
On April 20th of this year, 22 Year old Belizean Brian Hyde was found guilty of four counts of second degree murder by a six member jury, in a US Court. Yesterday Hyde re-appeared in Court where he learnt that he will be spending 4 concurrent life sentences in prison in the United States for the mu...

PM RECIEVES OCEANA AWARD
Yesterday Oceana and the Belize Coalition held its World Ocean Day award Ceremony. Prime Minister Dean Barrow was presented with an award in the ceremony entitled “The Way of the Wave”. The sculpture was designed by renowned artist Gilvano Swasey, MBE and sculpted by Anthony Vacaro. It is described ...

BATTLE FOR PORT LOYOLA
Two well-known Port Loyola Representatives are going head to head in a battle of Words and …. In an interview with Channel 5 last night, long time PUP area rep Anthony Boots Martinez out rightly said that the P.U.P made a terrible mistake by endorsing Gilroy Usher for Port Loyola. Martinez continued...

BARANCO RESIDENTS DEMANDING CONSULTATION LETTER
US Capital Energy Limited has applied to Government of Belize to operate in a new concession area after their old concession license expired in 2016. According to an Article in the June 8th edition of the Reporter, the application has several layers, including holding...

TWO CHARGED FOR MOON GROCERY ROBBERY
Tonight two Belize City youths are on remand at the Belize Central Prison after recently turning teenagers and are accused of committing an armed robbery in the city one of many that has occurred over a few weeks of increase in robberies in the city both on the North and...

BRIDGE FOR COCAO FARMERS
Last week Friday Ya’axche Conservation Trust and the Trio Farmers Association inaugurated a bridge to improve access to Belize’s agroforestry concession in Maya Mountain North Forest Reserve. The Ya’axche Conservation Trust has been working with 31 farmers to grow cacao at the agroforestry concession, with 165 acres of cacao planted so far. Here is more on how the bridge will benefit the farmers...

DR. PITTS SHOULD HAVE BEEN ALOWED TO CONTEST SAYS PUP DEPUTY LEADER
Earlier you heard Hyde say that he does not believe in free passes. Yet, the Party of which he is Deputy Leader seemingly gave a free pass to Gilroy Usher in Port Loyola. We will recall that a couple months ago, Dr. Candice Pitts’ application to run as a candidate for Standard Bearer in Port L...

SALDIVAR SUING THE PUP?
Is Arthur Saldivar suing the People’s United Part? You will recall Saldivar announcing his intentions to take the Party to court during an Online Town Hall meeting just a couple weeks ago. The announcement came hours after Saldivar found out that his PUP Standard Bearer Application was rejected by t...

BURELL BOOM RESIDENT SHOT IN ROARING CREEK
A 23 year old resident of Burrel Boom Village was shot to the head in the Village of Roaring Creek V. Inspector Wifred Ferrafino tells us more Wilfredo Ferrufino, National Crimes Investigations Branch: On Saturday June 9th at about 10:05pm, Roaring Creek police responded to shots being fired in Roa...

KING MURDERED IN HATIEVILLE
A 26 year old construction worker was shot to death on the front porch, of the second floor, of his Hattie Ville home. 26 year old Philmore King is Belize’s latest murder victim. King made the news in April of this year when he was busted by Police with approximately 50 pounds of Canabis at the Beli...

4 MONTH OLD SHOT IN GALES POINT
4 months old baby Dashawn Dwehene is being treated in the KHMH after he was mistakenly shot by his father with a pellet gun. According to police, on Saturday, 18 year old, Tyreeka Welch, the mother of the 4 month old was at her Gales Point Village home with the father of the child 19 year old Lincol...

TROPICAL WAVES BRINGING HEAVY RAINFALL TO BELIZE
Belize can expect some heavy rainfalls this week. A tropical wave just east of Nicaragua interacting with a large upper level trough has created persisting showers and thunderstorms over the southwestern Caribbean Sea for the past several hours . According to reports from the National Hurricane cent...

MAN SHOT ON FAIRWEATHER ST. WHILE RIDDING BIKE
A 26 year old Belize City man was shot while riding his bike on Fairweather Street yesterday morning. 26 year old Nimrod Fitzgibbon told Police that he had just finished buying food in the area and while riding his someone shot him. Police say that they are investigating it a possible gang related s...

HONDURAN CHARGED FOR STABBING GUATEMALAN IN BELLA VISTA
A Guatemalan Famer is at the KHMH in a stable condition after being stabbed last night. 25 year old Edwin Hernandez told Police that while he was stadding outside the, Blue Shy Nightclub in, Bella Vista Village, he was approached by , 39 year old Honduran Martin Villatoro who inflicted a stab wound...

STORE ON CONEY DRIVE ROBBED
There are reports of another robbery in Belize City over the weekend. According to reports, three male persons entered the, Moon Grocery Store on Coney Drive at about 4 p.m. on Saturday evening, one of whom was armed with handgun demanding money. 50 year old, Businessman Guo Jin Li told Police that ...

FREAK ACCIDENT TAKES LIFE
A freak Horse and Carriage accident claimed the life of a Newland Community man. 38 year old Issac Nicoli was riding is horse and carriage in the community along with a single passenger when his carriage overturned. Police tells us more Wilfredo Ferrufino, National Crimes Investigations Branch: Aro...

MORE DRUGS FOR POLICE OVER THE WEEKEND
Five separate drug bust were reported by Police over the weekend in 4 different districts over the country. On Friday afternoon, in the Guinea Grass Village of Orange Walk, 39 year old Luis Alberto Montejo was busted with 542 grams of cannabis after Police conducted a search at his residence...

TEENAGER DROWNS IN SAN ESTEVAN
A 19 year Honduran National drowned at the San Estevan Village Ferry in the Orange Walk District this afternoon. According to reports, sometime around midday today, 19 year old Melvin Omar Pineda Gutierrez went swimming at the ferry...

19 YEAR OLD STABBED IN ORANGE WALK
An Orange Walk resident has been admitted to the Northern Regional Hospital where he is being treated for a stab wound to the left side of the abdomen. 19 year old Manuel Ruiz told Police that he was walking an unnamed street in, San Jose Village...

THE GREATEST SHOWMAN MUSICAL
The Allegro Music School will bring the George Price Center for Peace and Development, in Belmopan, to life tomorrow night. The school will be hosting a live musical entitled the Greatest Showman Musical...

Amandala

2 students top PSE 2018
Every year in March and May, standard six students all over the country sit the Primary School Exams (PSE). This year, March 19, the first portion of the exams, which consisted of an English component and a Science component, was administered, and on May 5, students completed the other two sections of the exam — Math and Social Studies. This year, 7,080 students — 3,568 females and 3,512 males — from 273 schools sat the PSE. On Friday, the results for the top 25 performers in the country were released and it was revealed that two students topped the PSE this year with a score of 384/400 each. These students were Haley Thurton of Hummingbird Elementary School in Belize City and Rolando Umaña of La Inmaculada RC School in Orange Walk.

Darnell Arnold, 19, charged with the murder of Philmore King, 26
A quick investigation by the police into the fatal shooting of Philmore King, 26, has resulted in the arrest of Darnell Arnold, 19, a construction worker of Mile 16 ½ , Hattieville. Arnold was arraigned on a charge of murder when he appeared today before the Chief Magistrate, Sharon Fraser, who explained to him that she would not take a plea from him because the offence is indictable. She also explained to him that she could not offer him bail because of the nature of the offence, and remanded him until July 24.

Mayor Kevin Bernard new PUP Orange Walk East standard bearer
The area around the Louisiana Government School in Orange Walk Town became a battleground of Opposition People’s United Party (PUP) campaign workers, who worked all day to bring out voters in support for the two Orange Walk Town Council members who were locked in a high-spirited battle to secure the PUP Orange Walk East standard bearer position. About one and a half hours after the polls closed at 5:00 p.m., word began to come out of the counting room that the three-term Orange Walk Town mayor, Kevin Bernard, had taken the lead over one of his councilors, Josue Carballo, who has been working the constituency since his loss to the United Democratic Party (UDP)’s Elodio Aragon, who was a first-time candidate in the November 2015 general elections.

4 life sentences for Belizean Brian Hyde, 22
Brian Omar Hyde, 22, who is a Belizean originally from the Cayo District, was sentenced to four life sentences by a Florida judge for a killing spree in Lehigh Acres that left four of his relatives dead in August 2015. His sentences are to run concurrently. This means that he will only serve one life sentence. Last November, Hyde went on trial, but that first trial was over in less than 5 minutes, because a witness, Dorrien Pitts, the husband of Dorla Pitts, one of the three persons Hyde murdered, had made a remark which the judge, Margaret O. Steinbeck, ruled to be prejudicial to Hyde, when he made reference to Hyde’s illegal immigration status.

Murder acquittal of Calaney Flowers, 31, has been appealed, but she is out of the jurisdiction
In a trial by judge, sitting alone without jury, Calaney Flowers, 31, was acquitted of the murder of her baby’s father and ex-boyfriend, Lyndon Morrison, in March 2017. Morrison died when he was hit from behind as he and his girlfriend were traveling on his Kawasaki Ninja motorcycle on Freetown Road in Belize City one night in August 2012. Flowers was the person driving the car that hit Morrison and his girlfriend, Sochyl Sosa, who survived the impact of the hit, but suffered a miscarriage as a result.

Graduation season begins; SCA, SJC, and EPY celebrate graduates
The graduation season has commenced, and eager students from all over the country are being, or will soon be, recognized for their hard work during their school years. So far, students from St. Catherine’s Academy (SCA), St John’s College (SJC), and Edward P. Yorke High School (EPY), have already marched up to receive their diplomas. On Saturday, June 2, SCA, which first opened its doors in 1883, on the first floor of the Sisters of Mercy Convent, held its graduation ceremonies. SCA has a student body of over 500 girls, and prides itself in assisting young women to truly achieve their potential. SCA’s philosophy is rooted in its Christian faith and its desire to develop students spiritually, physically, intellectually, and emotionally.

World Cup 2018 Russia Group Phase Week 1 schedule
World Cup 2018 Russia kicks off on Thursday, June 14, with grand opening ceremonies followed by the opening game featuring host team Russia vs Saudi Arabia in Group A. Group Phase Week 1 schedule (local time): Thurs. June 14 – 09:00 – (A) Russia vs Saudi Arabia. Fri. June 15 – 06:00 – (A) Egypt vs Uruguay; 09:00 (B) Morocco vs IR Iran; 12:00 (B) Portugal vs Spain.

Home teams lose game 1 in Inter-District Club Tournament semifinals
Postponed from last weekend due to weather, yesterday’s 1st leg of the FFB Inter-District Club Tournament 2018 semifinals ended in disappointment for both home teams. At the Carl Ramos Stadium in Dangriga, visiting Progresso FC from Orange Walk came away with a big 5-0 win over home standing B&B Landshark FC. Sharing the scoring for Progresso were Andir Chi (14’ & 55’), Eliazar Itza (34’), Ian Chi (62’) and Ryan Murillo (84’).

Stann Creek F.A. Week 14 results; quarterfinal playoffs next
The Stann Creek Football Association (SCFA) Cup 2018 1st Division Tournament held its Week 14 games on Friday night, June 8, at the Carl Ramos Stadium to complete its regular season. In the opener, Silk Grass SG Strikers bombed Department of Youth Services (DYS), 6-0, with goals from Nigel Elijio (13’ & 30’), Erwin Flores (26’) and Kenyon Lewis (28’, 34’ & 41’). And in the nightcap, it was Wagiya, 3-2, over Hopkins Ibayani. Shaking the net for Wagiya were Jaheim Caballero (55’ & 61’) and Russel Castillo (71’); while Hopkins got 1 apiece from Norman Nunez (13’) and Devanny Tillett (25’)

Primary school football winding down fast in Belize City
The Belize District Primary Schools Football Tournament 2018 is fast winding down. With the Belize District Championship scheduled for Thursday of this week, the Belize City competition has semifinals scheduled for tomorrow, Tuesday (postponed from today, Monday); and the City finals are on Wednesday. Four male quarterfinal games were played on Friday, June 8, at the MCC Grounds, after the top 2 teams from each of 4 groups of 5 had qualified to the playoffs.

Editorial: Searching for scapegoats
Prime Minister of Belize, the Right Hon. Dean O. Barrow, has not been doing a good job of running the country of Belize for some years now, and the situation keeps getting worse and worse where the collapse of law and order is concerned and where our failing economy is concerned. To make matters, Mr. Barrow has been suffering from back problems and is looking for a way to make a triumphant exit sometime before the campaign for the 2020 general election begins. Precedent is not on Mr. Barrow’s side, however. None of the three Prime Ministers of Belize before him was able to make a triumphant exit. All three resigned leadership after their parties were defeated in general elections. Mr. Barrow’s United Democratic Party (UDP) will not be defeated in a general election under his leadership (except for 2003), but the indications are growing that he can’t find a suitable UDP Leader/Prime Minister to replace him.

The Ineffective Renunciation of Guatemalan Citizenship: The Big Picture
The national identity of Belize is a complex, multifaceted construct that is continuously evolving. With a history amalgamated from numerous other nations and cultures, there are inevitably varied interpretations of what this identity is. Such contesting perceptions of Belizean identity have largely contributed to diverging policies on citizenship. On the one hand, at the heights of the immigration boom in the early 80s, we allowed unchecked, willful and wanton immigration, without considering the consequences of quick demographic changes on various aspects of life and society, and on the other hand, we stripped away the citizenship of some born Belizeans who became citizens of other countries.

At book launch, Assad Shoman said Che Guevara supported Belize’s independence from 1961
Just at the time when the nation-state of Belize is grappling with the existential question of the Guatemalan territorial claim, whether or not the ancient claim should be settled by the judicial arm of the United Nations at its International Court of Justice (ICJ), the man who established the Belize Independence Secretariat and was the diplomatic genius behind the internationalization of Belize’s right to self-determination launched a new, relevant book tonight: Guatemala’s Claim to Belize: The Definitive History, by Assad Shoman. The book was launched at the Image Factory Art Gallery, located on North Front Street, shortly after 7:00 p.m. when attorney Dickie Bradley was called to say a few words about author Assad Shoman.

Two steps to make before we legalize it
There’s not a person who does not appreciate the worth of neighbors who respect their values. It being impossible to find someone who is a perfect fit with everything we are, we must have tolerance in this world. But one can only bend so far. Land in a neighborhood where the folk are everything you are not, and you have to change them, or find another area to live. No beating around the bush, there are people who can’t stand the smell of weed. Heck, there are people who can’t stand to be around people who are smoking cigarettes! Second smoke is no issue for people like me, but there are those who get very angry when a cigarette smoker is in their neighborhood.

Malik Humes, 21, remanded for aggravated assault and theft
A Belize City resident has been arraigned for aggravated assault and theft for an incident that occurred in Ladyville around 10:05 p.m. on Friday, June 8. He is Malik Humes, 21, a construction worker of 2 Wagner’s Lane. Humes pleaded not guilty to the charges when he appeared today, Monday, before Chief Magistrate Sharon Fraser. She explained to him that she could not offer him bail because the offence of aggravated assault was committed with a firearm. She remanded him into custody until August 28.

Man stabbed outside nightclub in Bella Vista
A Guatemalan farmer, Edwin Hernandez, 25, was stabbed early on Sunday morning in Bella Vista, Toledo. Hernandez reported to police that about 1:45 a.m. on Sunday, June 10, he was standing outside the Blue Sky Nightclub when he was approached by 39-year-old Martin Villatoro, a resident of the same village. Villatoro, a Honduran labourer, then stabbed him in the back. Hernandez was transported to the Independence Polyclinic and later transferred to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. He is currently in a stable condition.

Wilser Chavarria, 23, found guilty of manslaughter
Wilser Chavarria, 23, accused of the murder of Panamanian diplomat Jose Rodrigo de la Rosa Stanford, 64, of Belmopan, that occurred in November 2014, has been found not guilty of murder, but guilty of manslaughter. The verdict was issued by Supreme Court judge, Justice Antoinette Moore, on Friday evening. According to a report on Plus TV, Chavarria claimed self-defense because a sexual assault was being committed on him by the career diplomat.

The evening of the crocodile on Princess Margaret Drive
This evening, many people heading home on Princes Margaret Drive to begin their weekend were surprised to see a large crocodile lying on the surface of the narrow canal that lies in the middle of the street between Pallotti High School and Cleopatra White polyclinic. Drivers slowed their vehicles to get a peep and several persons were overheard saying that they had never seen a crocodile up close like that before, as cell phones snapped pictures incessantly and a lone policeman controlled the flow of traffic.

The Reporter

Fatal fire in San Pedro
An early morning fire in San Pedro has reportedly claimed four lives. The blaze was reported in the Escalante area of San Pedro town.

Breaking Belize News

Belizeans busted in US immigration raids
Several Belizeans were among a group of illegal immigrants busted over the weekend in two immigration […]

Mexican authorities to conduct inspections on vehicles entering Mexico
The Ministry of Transport today informed the Belizean public that commencing Wednesday, June 13 to Friday, […]

PUP slams UDP Government for Cabinet re-shuffle
The Opposition, People’s United Party (PUP) today issued a statement demanding answers for the abrupt reshuffle […]

Don’t blame the government for fuel prices, says Finance Ministry
The Ministry of Finance today issued a second release in less than a week explaining that […]

Candlelight vigil is scheduled for tonight in San Pedro Town
In honor of the four victims that perished by the deadly fire that happened early […]

Garifuna Council reaches out to Government on behalf of Barranco
The National Garifuna Council (NGC) has written to the Office of the Attorney General (AG) […]

Prime Minister Announces Cabinet Changes
The Government of Belize has just issued a release informing of significant changes in the […]

Belizeans involved in reported traffic accident in Mahahual
According to local Chetumal media, Linea de Fuego Chetumal, four Belizeans were involved in a road […]

Four reportedly die in tragic San Pedro inferno
Reports to BBN indicate that four people have died as a result of an inferno […]

WHO declares Paraguay Malaria free
Yesterday, the World Health Organization (WHO) certified Paraguay as having eliminated malaria. Paraguay is the […]

Assad Shoman’s new book launches countrywide
Belizean writer, historian and former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Assad Shoman launched his new book […]

Blogs

26 Year Old Solo Traveler Vacation Review
My friend Joanne's 26-year-old daughter, Sandra came to stay with me recently. She had been to Ambergris Caye once many years ago when I lived at Hacienda in San Pablo area. She agreed my apartment in town was much better. Aside from laidback and relaxed, here is what she had to say about her vacation... It was a Thursday when I flew into Belize City International Airport and took the water taxi over to San Pedro where I met taco, and her friends Shirlee and Victoria. After a quick pass to drop-off my luggage we went to Poco Locos for dinner where I ate a buffalo chicken burger. I could taste the difference between the chicken in Canada and the chicken in Belize. I must say I like the chicken in San Pedro much better! We went back home and because it was #jerzday we had to watch Jersey Shore!

Diamond Lodge Bed & Breakfast Shines Bright
Just south of San Pedro Town within the bustling community of Sea Grape Drive lies a sanctuary of tranquil serenity. Embraced within a property of landscaped luxury and a sparkling pool that begs for quality time, the Diamond Lodge Bed & Breakfast is an intimate retreat where you can laze your day away or immerse yourself into the surrounding community. I’m always game for a weekend getaway, and when we were invited to enjoy a night and amenities at this island retreat, I was delighted to say yes! Who says you need to travel far to indulge a little? Upon arrival, we are greeted by their gracious host Seleni, who gives us a tour of their expansive great room where guests can lounge in extreme comfort and the open kitchen where Chef Duane Lizama creates his amazing meals. I can hardly wait for the morning!

Slowing it Down on Ambergris Caye: A Weekend At The Camp
My work involves getting out and about, taking pictures and then chatting about it on the internet. So when I’m at Cayo Frances Farm and Fly, 12 miles N on the west side of Ambergris Caye – a few acres of rare black soil on a sand island on a mostly hidden lagoon – things take a different pace. Not only is the internet speed awful over there* but the “out and about” is very different from San Pedro town. Over the weekend, I did a bit of reading (I LOVED this book), helped with the meals, planted about 50 heliconia and ginger flower plants, swatted mosquitoes, situated our 4 new mango trees that I brought up from Hopkins Mango Festival and took some pictures.

Outdoor Activities in Belize Inspired by Nature Photography Day
Do you enjoy the little, but grand, things in life? We surely do! A close-up of a flower, the sighting of a beautiful tropical bird, a mesmerizing thunderstorm, natural formations, breathtaking sunsets, to name a few, often bring us travellers a sense of wanderlust and enjoyment even when captured through the camera lens. Luckily for many of us, Nature Photography Day is fast-approaching (June 15th) which gives us yet another reason to celebrate Mother Nature’s daily offerings and all the adventures we can find within. Created in 2006, the North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA) initiated this event as a way of celebrating nature as well as creating awareness for the conservation and protection of plants, wildlife, and landscapes locally and worldwide through photography.

International Sources

Flooding rain to eye Central America to Texas regardless of tropical storm potential in Gulf, Caribbean
An area of disturbed weather in the western Caribbean Sea may cause flooding problems along its path to the Gulf of Mexico despite a small chance to organize into a weak tropical system this weekend. A broad area of drenching showers and strong thunderstorms is forecast to drift northwestward from the western Caribbean to the western Gulf of Mexico over the next five days. Development seems unlikely over the next couple of days and may not occur at all, despite sufficiently warm waters, according to AccuWeather Hurricane Expert Dan Kottlowski.

Hard work must be the national symbol of Belize
Belize is tiny for a country — about the land size of Maryland — but it should get the prize for having the best place names per square mile. We tooled along in our fancy air-conditioned bus past Camelote, Cottontree, Sunflower, Teakettle, Mount Hope and Unitedville, which sounded so idyllic that I thought about asking the driver to pull over and let us stop for a while. I didn’t for fear it would cause an argument and make us responsible for ripping Unitedville right in half. We Americans can do stuff like that without even trying. Only the name of the road we traveled was boring: Western Highway. If we had gone another direction, though, we could have gone down the Hummingbird Highway. They don’t number the highways in Belize, what with there being only three of them.

Stalking the elusive permit from a fishing boat in Belize
I was standing at the front of a 23-foot-long panga in the Bay of Honduras, some 10 miles northeast of Punta Gorda, Belize, as my angling partner, Nelson Mathews, was perched in a seat below. A group of frigatebirds circled above, reminiscent of cruising fighter jets, while several pelicans and cormorants watched from a snag on a mangrove island nearby. The low-lying Maya Mountains were just visible through a thin haze to the west. My right hand held a 10-weight fly rod; my left, a size-6 Bauer Crab fly. At my feet, 40 feet of fly line lay coiled. The blue-green water danced before my eyes, assuming different shades from the ever-shifting substrate three feet below - sometimes turtle grass, sometimes coral or sand. This did not make it any easier to spot my elusive quarry, the permit. From an elevated platform in the back of the boat, our guide, Scully Garbutt, pushed the boat along silently with an 18-foot graphite pole. His eyes seemed at least as sharp as those of the ospreys that patrolled below the frigatebirds. After a time, he called out calmly, "Permit, ten o'clock. Point your rod." I pointed my rod to where I thought the fish was.

Caribbean gearing up for culinary showcase in Miami
Hosted by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bonaire, the Cayman Islands, Curaçao, Jamaica, St. Lucia, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, and the Turks and Caicos have selected their best chefs and mixologists for this year’s Taste of the Caribbean. A combined team representing chefs from some of the Caribbean destinations that were impacted by last September’s hurricanes will also compete. The team comprises members from Anguilla, the British Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and the United States Virgin Islands. Since 1993, the Caribbean’s best chefs and culinary teams have been meeting at Taste to compete, demonstrate their skills, learn from each other and offer the travel trade a scintillating exhibition of the most delectable culinary treats of the region.

What now for the Commonwealth?
It’s a club that covers the world, represents some 2.4 billion people, caters to nations as vast as Canada, as populous as India and as remote as Micronesian islands. And it has the former British Empire as its common roots — now, as the representatives of the 53 governments meet in London for the biennial Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), it’s an organisation that is trying to forge a new future, select a new leader and work on its relationship with Britain as London tries to negotiate a post-Brexit role on the global stage. Theresa May, the United Kingdom’s Prime Minister, is looking to win the support of the Commonwealth, a network of mostly former British colonies, for future trade and bolster her argument that the future is bright after Britain leaves the European Union next March. The Commonwealth, headed by Queen Elizabeth, is not a formal trading bloc with a free-trade agreement and, in 2015, it accounted for only 9 per cent of British exports while, by contrast, the EU, which Britain voted to leave in 2016, accounted for around 44 per cent.

Videos

June 12, 2018

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Specials and Events

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

The San Pedro Sun

102 students graduate San Pedro High School in 2018
A total of 102 students received their high school diplomas at the 2018 San Pedro High School (SPHS) graduation ceremonies held at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium on Saturday, June 9th at 5PM. Mistress and Master of ceremonies – and fellow graduates – Briseidi Molina and Jaye Wagner presided over the event, in which students were honored in front of family and friends. After beautiful renditions of the Belize National Anthem and School Song, the Salutatorian Address was delivered by graduate Elisa Garcia. She welcomed everyone to the ceremony, commending all parents and teachers for their dedication and support. Garcia thanked everyone who helped her in the journey through her secondary studies, while encouraging her colleagues to continue working hard in their future endeavors.

Turtle nests threatened by development on Ambergris Caye
The 2018 sea turtle nesting season has commenced, and personnel from the Hol Chan Marine Reserve have been monitoring the first two nests found in northern Ambergris Caye. Despite this early spotting, marine biologists at Hol Chan are uncertain about the success of the season this year, due to the fact that improper garbage disposal and new construction/ development continue to threaten the future of the nesting grounds. They ask the general public visiting the beaches north of San Pedro Town to be extra cautious and to not interfere with any potential turtle nests.

San Pedro Police Department releases 2018’s first quarter report
The crime statistics for the first quarter of 2018 have been released by the San Pedro Police Department (SPPD). The report compares 2018’s major crimes to the same time period in 2017, and according to the figures, there is a decrease in figures, despite the spate of illicit activities lately registered on the island. During 2018, the cumulative statistics for January to April indicate that there were seven less major crimes committed than in 2017, which is equivalent to a 13% decrease.

Ambergris Today

San Pedro’s Top 2018 PSE Scorers
The Primary School Examination results are out and the students from San Pedro Town did an excellent job! The top scorers this year where Bryan Roca of San Pedro RC School (92% - 368/400 points), Gabriella Knox of The Island Academy (90.25% - 361/400 points) and Matthew Bradley of San Pedro RC School with (89.5% - 358/400 points). A total of 7, 271 students sat the PSE and this year the scores were considerably better in English, Math and Science. The Top Achiever for this year’s PSE was Haley Thurton of Hummingbird Elementary in Belize who scored a 96.5% (384/400points). The following are the results for schools here on the island:

San Pedro High School Graduates 102
Every year since 1976 when San Pedro High graduated eleven students, there has been a steady increase in enrollment up to this year when a record 102 graduated in full pomp and circumstances. Here are the highlights of the ceremony: Eloquent Emcees graduates Miss Briseidi Molina and Mr. Jaye Wagner eloquently carried the program along with joy and smiles and much charisma. Salutatory. Miss Elisa Garcia set a welcoming tone of celebration expressing pride and joy as the fruits of their labor. Diplomas and Awards. The honors of shaking the hands of the more than excited graduates were given to Board of Director’s Vice Chairman, Mr. Miguel Alamilla Jr.

Misc Belizean Sources

The Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) Assists CITO in Building Maintenance
The Central Information Technology Office (CITO), formerly known as Belize National ICT Center, located at the corner of Mountain View Blvd and Dry Creek Street, Belmopan, was built in 2009 by the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and handed over to Belize in 2012. Since then, the Government of Belize has fully utilized the center by consistently enhancing the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and e-government services. In order to accommodate the growing ICT demands, the Government of Belize expanded the building from the original two-story into a three-story in 2014. Additionally, this building also continues to host the bilateral technical ICT Projects between the Governments of Belize and Taiwan.

ROTARY ORTHOPEDIC CLINIC
Northern Regional Hospital in Orange Walk will be the the nearest service to Corozal patients. Thursday, June 21st, 2018. (9:00 a.m. - Follow up patients) (10:30 a.m. - New Patients) - Pediatric Physical Therapist - Will see children who are in need of orthopedic care, knee, foot, and other types of bone problems and abnormalities.

Khadija Assales is our Young Belizean Entrepreneur!
For the month of June, we are excited to feature Khadija Assales as our Young Belizean Entrepreneur! Khadija Assales brings a whimsical and imaginative essence to her jewelry popularly known as Kaj Expressions. Her innovative, high-concept designs constantly step out of the traditional jewellery scope, utilizing unusual forms and materials. She finds much inspiration in the enchanting nature of the gem stones, sea glass, and lionfish which she uses to bring her ideas to life. Though most popularly known for her signature customized handmade name chains in her home land of Belize, KAJ clearly remembers the days when this was the furthest thing from the case. She was a young mother of two when she started her business, Kaj hurdled along the entrepreneurial track by participating in every event that came up, even if it meant travelling hours on the bus with her babies to be able to sell just a few pieces of jewelry at shows like the EXPO.

Golf Cart crash in San Pedro
Next time you are stopped by the traffic wardens for speeding or drinking and driving, Remember that this is what we are trying to prevent. Drive safely.

Jazz at the Radisson
Jazz in June!!

Belize International Jazz Festival 2018
Welcome for the Belize International Jazz Festival 2018..... Monday, June 18, 7pm

New Bridge for Cacao Farmers
Last week Friday, the Trio Farmers Cacao Growers Association and Ya’axché inaugurated a bridge which will improve access for 31 farmers growing cacao in the 936-acre agroforestry concession within Maya Mountain North Forest Reserve. So far 28000 fingers of plantains, 1050 pounds of corn, 1000 pounds of peppers and over 900 pounds of wet cacao beans have been harvested. In 2019, it is estimated that 90,000 pounds of wet cacao beans will be harvested as the cacao trees continue to mature. In anticipation of this, Ya’axché with permission from Belize Forest Department and financial support from the GEF Small Grants Programme constructed a bridge at the entrance of the agroforestry concession to facilitate timely transportation of cacao beans and other farm products especially during flooding.

GOVERNMENT AND PEOPLE OF BELIZE RECOGNIZED FOR LEADERSHIP IN OFFSHORE OIL BAN: PRIME MINISTER BARROW ACCEPTS AWARD IN WORLD OCEANS DAY CELEBRATION CEREMONY
As part of national activities commemorating World Oceans Day 2018, Oceana in Belize and the Belize Coalition to Save Our Natural Heritage officially recognized the Government and people of Belize for their collective leadership in establishing the world’s first indefinite moratorium against offshore oil. The Ocean Champion award was formally presented to Rt. Hon. Prime Minister Dean Barrow during ceremonies in Belize City on Saturday, June 9th, 2018. In presenting the award, Oceana’s Vice President for Belize, Janelle Chanona, emphasized that the significance of the moratorium cannot be overstated, given the daily dependence of tens of thousands of Belizeans on healthy marine resources. “We are world leaders,” said Chanona. “We are proudly loving and protecting the tens of thousands of Belizeans who depend on our world-renowned marine resources. This decision reflects the reality that we may be small but we are strong. And will continue to ensure that this law inspires others to follow the exemplary leadership of the Government and people of Belize.”

New Ambassador of Belize to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM)
New Ambassador of Belize to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Mr. Lawrence Sylvester presented his Credentials to Secretary-General Ambassador Irwin LaRocque on Friday 8 June 2018, in Georgetown, Guyana.

Students and teachers educated on the Chiquibul-Mopan-Macal-Belize Rivers
The Chiquibul Forest has several natural and cultural intrinsic values. Water is one of those tangible values derived from this forest. An overall total of 8,286 students and 457 teachers are now educated on the Chiquibul-Mopan-Macal-Belize Rivers from both the Cayo and Belize Districts. This effort been possible through FYFFES, British Embassy and Sisters of Charity of Nazareth support.

Fire Destroys Two Homes in Escalante Subdivision
Two houses in the Escalante subdivision were completely destroyed by a fire early this morning. Firefighters have since put the blaze under control. However, unconfirmed reports from witnesses are that there are casualties.

A Cultural Day in San Antonio
The A Day in San Antonio event was yesterday, and the BTIA was their to get some pictures and raffle off many prizes. "BTIA Cayo Chapter 5 hrs · A Day in San Antonio: Culture, Nature & sports was a huge success! We thank ASK & Belize and all other organizers for bringing San Antonio even more so on the map. From Cultural Presentations to a Grand Cycling Competition, even our very own Tambola and Raffle were successes. We thank all our sponsors who helped in making this a day to remember."

Become a Wildlife Ambassador
Are you interested in becoming a Wildlife Ambassador for Belize? The wildlife of Belize could use your help. Contact the BWRC at bzwildlifeclinic@gmail.com for more information. "Belize's wildlife needs your help. Threats to wildlife abound, most of them are caused by us humans, and many could be relieved through better awareness and education. Do you want to be an Ambassador for Wildlife in your community? We are very excited to share this invitation for further education for interested individuals from communities all over Belize as part of BWRC's latest outreach program effort and in preparation for the Wildlife Response Workshop for enforcement entities and community ambassadors in October this year.

Experience Latin America
This three day event is taking place in London, UK from the 11 to 13 June 2018 and is being attended by BTB's Chairman, Mr. Einer Gomez, BTB's Director of Tourism Mrs. Karen Bevans and Caroline Parkin, Account Manager, Brighter Group, Marketing and Representation. This B2B event provides targeted 20 minute meetings, great networking opportunities, inspiring seminars and time for appointments with exhibitors.

Channel 7

Phylmore King Killed By Someone Who Knew Him, Family Says
Two young men were targeted for death in the comfort of their homes this weekend. 26 year old Phylmore King was sitting on his verandah when someone known to him shot him in the head, while 22 year old Eugene Henderson was sitting in cousin's couch when an intruder walked in and shot him in the head. King died, while Henderson somehow survived. We have both their stories, starting with King who was killed at around 7:45 on Saturday morning.:... Jules Vasquez reporting: Early on Saturday morning, police responded to a shooting at this home on Peter Lewis Street in Hattieville where they found 26 year old Phylmore King dead on his own veranda. The scenes of crime processed the scene of a veranda execution by someone familiar:

Man Shot In Head While Visiting Cousin For Memorial Svc.
Tragedy struck a Roaring Creek family for the second time this weekend. First, their loved one, 22 year old Oswald Arnold went missing 26 days ago and is feared dead, and then on Saturday night, his cousin, 22 year old Eugene Henderson Jr. was shot to the head. Remarkably, Henderson survived but he is in a bad way at the KHMH. Courtney Weatherburne has the story. A living room sofa now just a mound of ash in Natalee Arnold's back yard. Although the flames consumed it, Nothing can block out the frantic screams or erase the gruesome image of Eugene Henderson Jr. bleeding out on that couch after he was shot to the head.

Police Have A Suspect
And today police couldn't confirm the motive because they too are trying to put together why this Burrell Boom resident was targeted at his cousin's house in Roaring Creek. Jules Vasquez, reporter: "Is this type of what would be called aggravated burglary/ home invasion/ murder or attempted murder, is this indicative of vendettas or some sort of hit taken out on individuals?" Insp. Wilfred Ferrufino, CIB -Belize City: "There is nothing to indicate that at this point but I am sure the investigators are looking into the motive as you know Mr. Henderson is from Burrell Boom so I am sure the investigators are looking into the matter."

Teenaged Dad Shot His Infant Son With A Pellet Gun
Don't play with guns - that's a piece of advice all adults share with kids. But one teenaged father certainly didn't heed that warning, and his 4 month old baby boy suffered because of it. In this case, it was a pellet gun. On Saturday, 19 year old Lincoln Dwehene was at his Gales Point home with his 18 year old common law wife and their baby boy Dashawn. Dwehene went to get the pellet gun from the bedroom and according to police, he didn't know the safety wasn't activated, and pointed it at the infant. The gun went off - hitting him in the lower back. Police told us more about this case.

Armed Robbers Target Northside
Last week we showed you how the police had significantly stepped up their presence and patrols on Albert Street after a string of armed robberies. The immediacy of that presence was felt today when a vagrant snatched a handful of clothing from Juanita's store on Albert Street. MIT officers who are posted on the block set chase immediately and caught him one block away at the corner of Dean and Regent Streets. So while the increased presence on Albert Street is paying dividends in a safe downtown, armed criminals seem to now be looking for opportunities in less heavily patrolled areas - and that means the Northside of Belize City.

Shirtless Ladyville Robber Is From City
And police have charged a man for another robbery that happened north of the city. This one was at the Sky Complex in Ladyville on Friday morning. We told you how a trio of robbers worked together to hold up a cashier who worked for a collection company. They grabbed her money bag as she was walking 50 feet over to the Belize Bank. But a brave businessman took on all three men, and at least managed to get back half the money. He also grabbed the shirt off 21 year old Malik Humes, a resident of 2 Wagner's Lane in Belize City. Humes was caught shirtless on a bus in the Belama area coming down from Ladyville. He was charged with aggravated assault and theft when he appeared today before Chief Magistrate Fraser. He pleaded not guilty and because it is a firearm offence, she remanded him into custody until August 28.

Court Awards Baby Brenae Quarter Mil
3 months ago, we told you about the outcome of the lawsuit for 5 year-old Brenae Timmons. You'll remember her as the toddler who suffered severe injury in January of 2016 when the huge iron gate at the Samuel Haynes Institute in Belize City fell on top her. She and her mother went to visit her father, who works as a librarian on the compound, and in only a few minutes of unsupervised exploration, misfortune befell her. She's gone through several surgeries and months of rehabilitation, but her family says that she continues to suffer from deficits that will negatively impact her quality of life as she ages.

Mek Mi Rich Case Goes To Appeal
Viewers may remember the Mek Mi Rich case from the Supreme Court. Back in February of 2016, Justice Courtney Abel ruled that the owners of the Mek Mi Rich game show stole the idea of Corozal businessman Curtis Swasey, which they used to enrich themselves at his expense. Well, the Court of Appeal will decide if they will uphold that decision, or overturn it. Up until 2014, Swasey had been in constant communication with the technical team from BTL for over 2 years, to launch his lottery game, Super Slam Sunday. The way it was supposed to work is through SMS lottery texting, where BTL's entire customer base would be able participate in the lottery game through text messaging. Email correspondence between Swasey and BTL employees show that he was explaining how to make it work with BTL's infrastructure. But, before Super Slam Sunday could become a real thing, BTL ended the partnership, citing that his game did not align with their business strategies for that year.

Why Was Off-Duty Sargeant Shot?
A sergeant of police was shot in Belize City on Saturday night. 43 year old Shawn Walton was on Victoria Street visiting someone when he was grazed in the arm. Polcie told us more:.. Insp. Wilfredo Ferrufino: "He was visiting someone in the area and he was seated in his vehicle awaiting that individual and that was when he was injured. He felt a burning sensation on his arm and he realized that he was shot. He was taken to the hospital. We are seeking two persons in regards to that incident." "The investigation is still ongoing and we can't confirm at this point if he was indeed the intended target, but we are looking into it."

Fatal Horse and Buggy Accident
When we talk about fatal road accidents they usually involve motorized two or four wheel vehicles. But no motor was firing this weekend, when a mennonite on a horse and buggy was killed in a freak accident this weekend. Police told us more about the fatal accident in the Corozal District :... Insp. Wilfredo Ferrufino: "Sometime around 9:30 on June ninth, Corozal police visited the New Land Community, this would be a Mennonite community and there they observed Isaac Nicholi, a thirty-eight-year-old teacher of Camp 112 of the New Land Community..."

Man Charged For Toledo Nightclub Stabbing
Early on Sunday morning in Bella Vista Village in Toledo, 25 year old Edwin Hernandez was stabbed to his back. Hernandez reported that he was standing outside Blue Sky Night Club at around 1:45 am when 39-year-old Honduran Martin Villatoro approached him and stabbed him. Hernandez was rushed to the Independence Poly Clinic and later transported to the KHMH where he is currently in stable condition. Villatoro has been formally arrested and charged for the Crime of Grievous Harm.

Mayor Beats Councilor In OW East Race
1800 voters came out in Orange Walk East yesterday to select their new PUP Standard Bearer. It was an interesting convention that pitted the incumbent Orange Walk mayor Kevin Bernard against one of his own town councillors Josue Carballo who was the PUP's losing candidate in that division in 2015. CTV-3 was there when the winner was announced:... Henry Charles Usher, PUP Chairman: "Receiving 827 votes was Mr. Josue Carballo. Receiving 935 votes is Mayor Kevin Bernard. So the new PUP standard bearer for Orange Walk East is Mayor Kevin Bernard."

Learning The Language, Made Easy
The Garifuna culture is the most celebrated in Belize, and known for its passionate, rhythmic music and dance along with a wide array of unique dishes, such as hudut, Sere or even Sahow. But what about the language? It was once spoken by many but in changing times, the language is being used less and less. That's why a group of passionate Garinagu are not about to let it slip away. Today they had an opening ceremony for a training workshop in the study of the Garifuna language. We stopped by to find out more about this effort. Abdul Nunez, President of BELADA CARIBE: "The purpose is to preserve Garifuna language, spirituality, culture, history and to look at the possibility if trying to make it an institutionalized initiative by partnering with the University of the West Indies Open Campus so we could make it a course study for adults and young people."

A Bridge Runs Across It
On Friday the Ya'axche Conservation Trust and the Trio Farmers Association inaugurated a brand new 65 foot bridge in the Maya Mountain North Forest Reserve. The bridge is much needed necessity in the upcoming Harvest season and takes a weight off the shoulders of the farmers who would often have to worry about not having access to areas due to flooding. Here's more on how many purposes this bridge serves A total of 31 Cacao farmers will positively benefit from the new bridge.

A Sunday Morning Shooting On Fairweather
There was a shooting on Fairweather Street on Sunday morning around 10:00 am. A man had just bought some tacos when a shooter came out of a school yard gunning at him. Police told us more: Insp. Wilfredo Ferrufino, C.I.B., Belize City: "Nimrod Fitzgibbon, a twenty-seven-year-old resident of Supaul Street. He was suffering from a gunshot wound to the left leg. Mr. Fitzgibbon indicated that he had just purchased food at the corner of Armadillo Street and Dolphin Street and was making his way on bicycle on Fairweather Street when he observed an individual in the Queen's Square Primary School. He then heard shots and realized that he was injured. Police have not detained anyone so far and the matter is under investigation. There is no indication that it is gang related at this point."

Channel 5

Death Visited Philmore King at Residence in Hattieville
A Hattieville man was executed at his house in the village over the weekend. Before eight o’clock on Saturday morning, twenty-six-year-old Philmore King was shot to the back of his [...]

Father Accidentally Turns Pellet Gun on Baby Son; Will Charges Be Filed?
A most troubling report came out of the quiet village of Gales Point Manatee this weekend when it was discovered that a newborn had been injured in the lower back [...]

1 Held for Brazen Home Invasion, Shooting of Eugene Henderson Jr.
A third shooting on Saturday involved twenty-three-year-old Eugene Henderson Junior who has been transferred to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. The Burrell Boom resident was in Roaring Creek with family [...]

Di Creole Wagans Latest Target of Thieves
There has been a surge in dangerous daylight robberies of various stores in the downtown area of the City. In the past two weeks, Hofius, Nacho World, and M and [...]

¼ Million Dollars for Brenae Timmons, Victim of Iron Gate
Brenae Timmons, now five years old, was crushed by a heavy iron gate on the compound of the Pickstock Development Association, steps away from the Lake Independence Public Library where [...]

Pickstock Development Assn. and Contractor to Blame, But Will They Pay?
But it will not be as easy to collect the funds, as according to Musa, the Association, led by executive director Barbara Elrington, and Espat have made no overtures of [...]

Mek Mi Rich Litigants Back in Court
The Court of Appeal kicked off its June session this morning with the long-awaited appeal of Belize Telemedia Limited against Curtis Swasey. It concerns Swasey’s charge, made in 2015, that [...]

Did B.T.L. Illegally Share Confidential Information?
B.T.L.’s attorney Magalie Perdomo tried to persuade the Court of Appeal panel, as they had failed to do in the lower court, that Swasey’s idea was never truly his own. [...]

Mayor Tops Councilor to Join P.U.P. Ticket in Orange Walk East
Tonight we have news from both major political. The race to represent Orange Walk East in 2020 was a hotly contested campaign between P.U.P. Mayor Kevin Bernard and Councilor Josue [...]

Boots, Castro Confirm Others Want to Stand for U.D.P. Leader
Within the United Democratic Party, there is news that Corozal North’s Hugo Patt is offering himself for leadership of the party, but Patt says he has made no decision.  While, [...]

Boots Vows Third Time Will Not Be Charm for Gilroy Usher in Port
Long-time U.D.P. area rep for Port Loyola Anthony ‘Boots’ Martinez thinks the P.U.P. made a mistake in endorsing Gilroy Usher for the Port. Martinez is retiring from electoral politics, but [...]

Off-Duty Policeman Shot; Shooters Evaded 3 Police Checkpoints
A police officer was shot while off-duty on Saturday night in the Victoria Street neighborhood.  Sergeant Shawn Walton was seated inside his vehicle when multiple shots were fired within proximity [...]

Nimrod Fitzgibbon Laywaited by Gunman near School
Twenty-seven-year-old Nimrod Fitzgibbon is recovering from a gunshot wound to the leg after coming under attack by a lone gunman on Sunday morning.  He was returning home on bicycle after [...]

Mennonite Teacher Trapped by Overturned Carriage, Drowns in New Land
A freak accident in the Corozal District has resulted in a teacher losing his life on Saturday morning.  Thirty-eight-year-old Isaac Nicholi, a Mennonite educator of New Land Community, was killed [...]

Life Sentences Times 4 for Brian Hyde
In April, a jury found him guilty of killing the family that took him in from Belize. Today, twenty-two-year-old Brian Omar Hyde learned that he will spend the rest of [...]

M.O.E. Begins Handouts of School Subsidy Countrywide
The Ministry of Education handed out close to three hundred thousand dollars in education subsidies for four-hundred and thirty-nine students in Rural Belize and four-hundred and ninety-six students in Belize [...]

Standard Accreditation for a Safer World
Saturday, June ninth is recognized as World Accreditation Day. It is a global initiative that was established by the International Accreditation Forum and the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation to raise [...]

Citrus Growers Share Experience
One of the accredited organizations at today’s forum is the Citrus Growers Association.  Its Citrus Research and Education Institute’s plant pathology diagnostic lab is the first and only laboratory in [...]

P.M. Gets Award from OCEANA, Coalition
Prime Minister  on Saturday received a special award from Oceana in Belize and the Belize Coalition to Save our Natural Heritage at the Belize Biltmore Plaza. The sculpture of a [...]

Over-40 Football Tops Sports Monday
Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.   [Highlights of weekend sporting activities….]

LOVE FM

Guatemala still reeling from deadly volcano
Guatemala is still reeling from the effects of Volcan Fuego, which erupted a week ago spewing rocks, gas and ash into the sky. Love News spoke with Guatemala’s Ambassador to Belize, George de la Roche Du Ronzet Plihal about the current situation in Guatemala. Guatemala’s Ambassador – George de la Roche Du Ronzet Plihal: “110 …

Mek Mi Rich case heard by Court of Appeal
In 2015, Supreme Court Justice heard a civil suit brought against telecom giant Belize Telemedia Limited by Corozal businessman Curtis Dale Swasey. He is accused BTL of breaching a non-disclosure agreement making it possible for the owners of Mek Mi Rich to use his idea and making themselves rich. According to Swasey, he came up …

New born baby boy shot
A four month old baby boy remains in a stable condition at the KHMH after he sustained injuries from a pellet gun. Good news is that doctors expect the child to recover. He was accidentally shot by his father on Saturday at their home in Gales Point Village.The child sustained injuries to the lower back. …

Hattieville villager murdered at his home
A nineteen year old has been charged for the murder of 26 year old Phylmore King, a construction worker, who was found dead at his home located on Peter Lewis Street in Hattieville Village. On Saturday morning, King was fatally shot while on his verandah. Investigators say the evidence is pointing at Darnell Arnold. Hipolito …

Belize City man lucky to be alive
A Belize City man is lucky to be alive tonight after there was an attempt on his life over the weekend. Twenty six year old Supal Street resident, Nimrod Fitzgibbon was shot to the left leg on Sunday morning. Inspector Wilfredo Ferrufino says that while no suspect has been identified, investigators are following all leads. …

Belize Bureau of Standards commemorates World Accreditation Day
Products must meet certain criteria in order to ensure that it is fit and safe for consumption. Accreditation is one of the components in arriving at that objective. World Accreditation Day is observed annually on June 9 to raise awareness of the importance of accreditation. Today, the Belize Bureau of Standards is commemorating World Accreditation …

UDP mourns the death of former Minister Samuel Rhaburn
Former Government Minister Samuel Rhaburn died yesterday at his home in Crooked Tree Village. The 74-year-old former two-time area representative for Belize Rural North was ill for some time. Rhaburn was elected as the area representative for Belize Rural North in 1984. Current area representative, Edmond Castro said Rhaburn was one of his mentors. Edmond …

Kevin Bernard wins PUP OW East convention
One hundred and eight voters were the deciding factor in this past Sunday’s PUP Standard Bearer convention in Orange Walk East. Orange Walk Town Mayor Kevin Bernard challenged councilor Josue Carballo to represent the People’s United Party in the division for the next general elections. Bernard garnered 935 votes while Carballo managed to obtain 827 …

Ministry of Education disburses subsidies to schools
The Ministry of Education has been offering school subsidies to students for the past nine years to assist them with fees for high school. At the inception of the programmme, students from the Toledo and Stann Creek Districts got the subsidies automatically while students in other districts had to be assessed. Today, the Ministry of …

Man fighting for his life after being shot to the head
A man is fighting for his life at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) after being shot on Saturday night. Police were called to a home in Roaring Creek Village, where they saw 23-year-old Eugene Alexander Henderson lying on a sofa in the living room with a gunshot wound to the head. Inspector Wilfredo Ferrufino …

Corozal teacher dies in an unusual incident
Teacher Isaac Nicholi died in an unusual incident over the weekend. It happened in the New Land Community in the Corozal District when he and another person were on a horse and carriage. Inspector Wilfred Ferrufino explained. …

Oceana honors Prime Minister Barrow
On Saturday, Oceana held an award ceremony in commemoration of World Oceans Day, where Prime Minister Dean Barrow was awarded. Janelle Chanona, the Vice President of Oceana, spoke about the importance of preserving our natural resources. …

Police office shot
43-year-old Sergeant Shawn Walton is at home recuperating after he was shot in Belize City. Walton was off duty at the time and he was inside a car on Victoria Street when shots rang out. He was shot to the forearm …

The Reporter

Armed robbery at Creole Wagans
Reliable information reaching the Reporter is that an armed robbery occurred this afternoon at D Creole Wagans on E Street, King’s Park area, Belize City. The information is that four persons entered the compound, at least one of whom carried a gun, and they got […]

Breaking Belize News

San Estevan villager drowns while swimming in river
Melvin Omar Pineda Gutierrez, 19, a Honduran national residing in San Estevan village, Orange Walk drowned […]

Belizean man sentenced to four concurrent life sentences in US prison
Belizean national, Brian Omar Hyde, was today sentenced to four concurrent life sentences in prison for […]

Prominent journalist, Adele Ramos, wins map display competition
Prominent Belizean journalist, Adele Ramos, is being celebrated as the winner of the Physical Map Display […]

Corozal man killed in freak horse and carriage accident
A Corozal man was killed in a freak accident on Saturday around 9:30 a.m. involving his […]

Father shoots 4-month-old baby with pellet gun
A four month old baby from Gales Point village was shot to the back reportedly by […]

PUP hosts another round of conventions
The opposition, People’s United Party (PUP) held a contested convention yesterday to elect a Standard Bearer […]

Hattieville youth charged for the murder of Philmore King
Darnel Arnold, 19, resident of Hattieville village was charged on Sunday for the murder of Hattieville […]

Government recognized for leadership in Offshore oil ban
On Saturday, June 9, OCEANA held an award ceremony in correlation with the national activities […]

Belize City man shot in leg while riding bicycle
Yesterday morning, before 10:00 a.m., Belize city resident Nimrod Fitzgibbon, 26, was riding his bicycle near […]

BELTRAIDE to host disaster risk management workshop
BELTRAIDE in collaboration with the Organization of American States (OAS), the University of West Indies […]

Police seek 2 suspects for shooting of police sergeant
According to police, two suspects are being sought for the shooting of police sergeant, Shawn Walton, […]

Tropical wave to bring heavy rains
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) today reported on a broad area of showers and thunderstorms […]

Belize represented at World Cup 2018 in Russia
The official ceremonies for the 2018 World Cup games in Russia kicks off inside the Luzhniki […]

Bureau of Standards hosts seminar for World Accreditation Day
The Belize Bureau of Standards (BBS) held a sensitization workshop this morning for food industry […]

Ya’axché improves access to Belize’s first agroforestry concession
On Friday, June 8, Ya’axché Conservation Trust and the Trio Farmers Cacao Growers Association (TFCGA) […]

Taiwan Embassy donates $32,000 to CITO for building maintenance
The Central Information Technology Office (CITO), formerly known as the Belize National ICT Center, located […]

Belize city man shot on Fairweather street
Police are investigating a shooting incident that occurred yesterday morning in Belize city. Shortly before […]

Man stabbed in Bella Vista, Toledo
Police are investigating a stabbing incident that occurred yesterday in Bella Vista, Toledo. According to […]

Below The Bar – Women’s representation in the National Assembly
The views expressed in this article are those of the writer and not necessarily those of Breaking Belize […]

Mixed reactions as Belizeans assist Guatemalan victims
Since last Sunday, images and videos of the catastrophic eruption of Guatemala’s Fuego Volcano have […]

Marconi Leal endorsed as PUP standard bearer for Belize Rural North
Yesterday afternoon, the People’s United Party (PUP) endorsed Marconi Leal as the standard bearer for the […]

International Sources

Mennonites mark 60 years in Belize
Sixty years ago, Mennonites from Chihua­hua, Mexico, crossed the Belize River and landed at a flat area now called the Mennonite Beach. What the settlers saw in 1958 was a dense rain forest on land they purchased to make into farms. Today, the drive to Mennonite Beach in Spanish Lookout passes fertile fields of beans and corn and cattle in pastureland. This year is the 60th anniversary of the arrival of Mennonites in Belize and the settlement in Spanish Lookout. The first settlers cleared the land and built homes, churches and schools. Many of the original settlers still live there, and they describe the difficult years in the beginning when life was hard and families with more resources shared with those who had less.

PREP VOLLEYBALL: Local teams join forces for mission trip
Top players from both the North Hardin Lady Trojans and Central Hardin Lady Bruins will play volleyball together this week during a mission trip to Belize. North Hardin coach Jessica Gunby organized the crew, which will spend a week touring Belize as they play nightly matches, share devotionals at their hotel and experience a new culture. “There was a need there to bring a volleyball team down, so I want to go there, take a group of girls and share devotionals with them each night and hopefully see my kid grow in their faith, as well as be able to go over there and share the love of God with the people in Belize,” Gunby said.

Caribbean storm system continues to have 20 percent chance of tropical formation
The National Hurricane Center Monday evening (June 11) continued to monitor a disturbance in the western Caribbean expected to move into the Gulf of Mexico by the end of the week. The system has a 20 percent chance of tropical development over the next five days, the Hurricane Center reported in its 7 p.m. update. A large area of disorganized showers and thunderstorms over the western Caribbean was associated with a trough of low pressure. This area was expected to move westward over Central America and the Yucatan Peninsula over the next couple of days, and little development was expected as of mid-week.

Flooding rain to eye Central America to Texas regardless of tropical storm potential in Gulf, Caribbean
An area of disturbed weather in the western Caribbean Sea may cause flooding problems along its path to the Gulf of Mexico despite a small chance to organize into a weak tropical system this weekend. A broad area of drenching showers and strong thunderstorms is forecast to drift northwestward from the western Caribbean to the western Gulf of Mexico over the next five to seven days. Development seems unlikely over the next few days and may not occur at all, despite sufficiently warm waters, according to AccuWeather Hurricane Expert Dan Kottlowski. A non-tropical storm in the vicinity will create substantial wind shear from Central America and the western Caribbean to Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula.

Videos

June 11, 2018

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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

Belize to host XX Central American Women’s Volleyball Championship 2018
The Belize Volleyball Association (BVA) will be hosting the upcoming XX Central American Women’s Volleyball Championship 2018 in Belize City from Saturday, August 4th to Friday, August 10th. The seven-day international volleyball tournament is a regional ranking and qualification event for the continental North, Central America and Caribbean Volleyball Confederation (NORCECA) championship that has further ranking and qualifications to the Federation International of Volleyball (FIVA) world championships. All Central American volleyball federations (Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama) are expected to participate in this tournament.

San Pedro Chapter of Justices of the Peace host informative meeting
The San Pedro Chapter of the Justices of the Peace (JP) held their fourth meeting of the year at the San Pedro High School (SPHS) on Tuesday, June 5th. Several topics of interest were discussed and information of the new re-registration of JPs was shared and explained. The meeting began at 7PM with the singing of the National Anthem followed by a short invocation. Thereafter Ana Ico recapped the discussion from the previous meeting, on Wednesday, May 2nd. Chapter president Pastor Clive Welsh then took over, discussing the first topic of interest: Protecting Through Education (RET) International training for JPs to be held at the San Pedro Town Council conference room on Sunday, June 24th. “This training is to teach JPs to respond in a timely, transparent, and efficient way to gender-based violence, human trafficking, child abuse and any other issue of crime and violence in our society,” said Welsh.

Doctor Love: Not the marrying kind
Dear Doctor Love, I am a man in my thirties and I have always known I am not the marrying kind. I am upfront about this with every woman I date and I make sure they understand that I will be monogamous while in a relationship with them but I do not believe in “until death do us part.” I never cohabitate but I have had a few very emotional and passionate relationships. They usually end because I have met someone I want to get to know better. I am honest about it the minute I realize it is turning into desire because I do not want to cheat or treat any woman unfairly. I just know myself and marriage and kids is a long-term commitment I am not inclined to make.

Misc Belizean Sources

South Ambergris Caye Neighborhood Watch General Meeting Notice
Wednesday June 13, 2018. Lone Star Grill and Cantina

The Belize Tourism Industry San Pedro Chapter issues an update on the FOR THE LOVE OF SAN PEDRO campaign for a safer San Pedro
We would like to thank everyone for attending our FOR THE LOVE OF SAN PEDRO public meeting last Thursday night. The goal of the meeting was to bring the community together for the greater good of San Pedro while sharing ideas and solutions through selected island residents who represent the wide demographics of our island community and invited government officials. Although every single person deserves to be heard, for the sake of civility and time we decided against an open mic forum. Instead, we provided index cards where comments and concerns could be left in designated boxes. We are now compiling these comments into categories, determining the level of priority and working on how to address them best.

Baby accidentally shot with pellet gun
18 year old Tyreeka Welch, the mother of the infant, reported that the incident happened at home with her baby and her common-law husband and father of the infant, 19 year old Lincoln Dwehene. Lincoln went into the bedroom for a pellet gun and accidentally discharged the weapon which hit the baby. On 9.6.2018, Police visited the Southern Regional Hospital where they saw Dashawn Dwehene, 4 months old baby of, Gales Point Village suffering from a apparent pellet (gunshot) wound to the back. No information has been released regarding any charges against the parent. The infant is now being treated at the KHMH.

SHOOTING IN ROARING CREEK
About 10:05 p.m., on 9.6.2018, police responding to a report of a shooting incident in Roaring Creek Village, Cayo District. Upon arrival they saw, 23 year old Eugene Alexander Henderson lying on a sofa in the living room with injuries to the head. Initial investigations revealed that Henderson was on the sofa when a man entered the house and pointed a shotgun to his head and fired a single gunshot. Henderson was transported to the Western Regional Hospital and later to the K.H.M.H. where he was admitted in a critical condition.

The Naucoridae (Heteroptera: Nepomorpha) of Belize
Bob Sites, Bill Shepard and I have a new article out about the creeping water bugs of Belize (including a key). The checklist for Belize has been updated, and includes Kevin Scheers’ records for the diving and burrowing water beetles (including a key for the burrowers). Few regional faunistic treatments of aquatic Heteroptera exist for Mesoamerica. Records given here are the result of three extensive, coincident projects, each generating many specimens of Naucoridae. Thus, presented here is an annotated list of Naucoridae occurring in Belize, with an illustrated taxonomic key and notes on habitat. Three species are new country records, and ten species in four genera are now known from Belize.

The fungus Conifia on Pitaya dragon fruits
In response to an earlier when Mehalia, Victoria and myself were discussing the fungus Conifia on Pitaya dragon fruits. These are some of mine showing both infections and new growth. Mind you they are completely left alone at this point. I did spray all my trees with our Grow Big plant RX formula to see if it helps combat what I know thanks to Mehalia realize is a fungus!

BELIZEANS TO PARTICIPATE IN FOOTBALL FOR FRIENDSHIP IN RUSSIA WORLD CUP 2018
Belize for the first time has been selected to participate in the Football for Friendship (F4F) which is the International Children’s social program implemented in 2013. The program aims at developing youth football and a healthy lifestyle as well as promoting tolerance, open mindedness and friendship among children from across the globe. The key values of the programme include friendship, equality, fairness, health, peace, devotion, victory, tradition and honor. Football for Friendship 2018 program will stage the final event of the program in Moscow, Russia from June 8 – 15 2018. The Football Federation of Belize has selected two young players to represent Belize at the final event of the programme. Young football player Joseph Waight Jr. will participate as country ambassador and Christopher Young will participate as the young journalist and should cover the young player activities and the F4F 2018 events within the implementation of the programme.

Poached macaw update
Inserted into foster nest: We are elated to share that thanks to excellent work and close cooperation between FCD, FD and BWRC these two chicks got very "lucky" in the their misfortune: first they had the "luck" to be confiscated right in time (congratulations again to the amazing FCD rangers!!!). As is recommended for all poached animals, they were given specialised veterinary care and a health check by BWRC as a first step. Thankfully the chicks responded well to rehydration and introduction of proper diet, the health check revealed no major concerns and within 24 h the green light to return to the Chiquibul was given by our vets, the Forest Department and last but not least FCD's research team.

Madison Pearl receives award from the 2018 WWF International President’s Youth Award Special Mention
“I feel proud that Belize has taken such an important step forward and that we helped make it happen but there is so much more we all can – and need to – do. Destroying our natural resources with selfish and short-sighted interests is not OK. I’d like to encourage children around the world to stand up for our planet. Our parents and grandparents have enjoyed a beautiful home and we and our children deserve the same. Together we must send a message to our leaders that they are responsible for the planet we will live on in the future and they must make it one they would be proud to leave behind," Madison Pearl. Madi with her award finally in hand from the 2018 WWF International President’s Youth Award Special Mention. The award acknowledges and encourages outstanding achievements of young people under the age of 30 who are making significant contributions to nature conservation. Nominations are invited annually via WWF offices around the world.

The Reporter

Father accidentally shoots baby
A four month old baby was accidentally shot by the father with a pellet gun after 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 8th in Gales Point Village. Tyreeka Welch, 18, reported that her common-law husband and father of her baby, entered their bedroom to get his pellet gun. Not realizing that […]

Man shot in head while sleeping
A man was shot in the head while sleeping at home in Roaring Creek on Saturday, June 8th. It is reported that a lone gunman entered the home of Eugene Henderson, 23, around 10:00 p.m. and shot him in the face with a shotgun. Henderson was asleep on a sofa […]

Was police sergeant hit by a stray bullet?
A Belize City-based police sergeant is being treated for a gunshot wound that might have been caused by a stray bullets. Police say that around 10:33 last night, 43-year-old sergeant Shawn Walford was inside his vehicle on Victoria Steet when he heard four gunshots. Shortly after he […]

Belizean Citizens Abroad reaches out to OAS
The diaspora based group Belizean Citizens abroad has shared a letter written to the Organization of American States requesting intervention in the ongoing voter-reregistration process. The BCA said that it reached out to the OAS office in Washington DC, but was referred to the office in Belize […]

Breaking Belize News

Orange Walk Mayor Kevin Bernard wins convention for Orange Walk East
Three-time Mayor of Orange Walk Town, Kevin Bernard, is the newest standard bearer for the People’s United Party in the Orange Walk East Constituency. Today in a contested election at Louisiana Government School, Mayor Bernard defeated his Orange Walk Town Councilor, Josue Carballo, in a final count of 935 to 827. […]

4-month-old baby accidentally shot by father with pellet gun
Yesterday, police visited the Southern Regional Hospital where they saw a 4 month old baby of […]

Chinese grocer and customers robbed at gunpoint in Belize City
Yesterday, Guo Jin Li, 50, the owner of Moon Grocery Store on Coney Drive, Belize City, reported to police that around 3:40 p.m., he was approached and robbed by three men. According to Li, one of the men was armed with a gun and demanded money, and as a result, he handed over $700 in Belizean dollars. […]

4-month-old baby accidentally shot by father with pellet gun
Yesterday, police visited the Southern Regional Hospital where they saw a 4 month old baby of Gales Point Village, with an apparent gunshot wound to the back. The mother of the child, Tyreeka Welch, 18, reported to authorities that while at home with her baby and common-law husband, Lincoln Dwehene, 19, (who is also the father of the child), Dwehene went into their bedroom for a pellet gun. […]

Rainy weather to continue
A relatively moist easterly airflow will continue to dominate our weather. Sunny skies with cloudy spells, some showers, and a few thunderstorms are expected today. […]

Man shot in the head in Roaring Creek, Cayo
Last night at about 10:05, police responded to a shooting incident in Roaring Creek Village, Cayo District, where they found Eugene Alexander Henderson, 23, of Burrel Boom Village with an apparent gunshot wound to the head. […]

Sam Rhaburn, former minister of government passes away
This morning around 3, the Rhaburn family bid farewell to Samuel Rhaburn in Crooked Tree Village. Rhaburn was the first UDP Area Representative for Belize Rural North. […]

Police sergeant shot last night in Belize City
Police are investigating the shooting of a police sergeant that happened last night in Belize City. According to reports, the incident occurred around 10:30 PM. […]

Confiscated macaws released back into the wild
On Friday, BBN reported of the confiscation of two scarlet macaws chicks from illegal Guatemalan hunters inside the Chiquibul. After twenty-four hours, the two macaws were taken back into the Chiquibul. […]

Belize revokes registration for largest fish factory vessel in the world
Belize is currently making international news for revoking the registration of the largest fish factory vessel in the world, the Damanzaihao. International media outlets are reporting that the International Marine Registry of Belize (IMARBE) stripped the 50,000 ton vessel of the Belizean flag. […]

Blogs

Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort: Jungle, Beach, Heaven in Hopkins Village
This humble sign on the edge of charming Hopkins Village gives very little indication of what is beyond. The AMAZING Hamanasi Resort. The lush surroundings, acres and acres of manicured jungle, the friendly, knowledgeable and proud staff (about 150 employees for under 30 rooms), my gorgeous treehouse, the commitment to the environment (truly walking the walk), the impossibly sophisticated yet casual restaurant and fine food, just the attention to detail… Impeccable. Elegant, deliberate and thoughtful but relaxed. But even more than that… The “Hamanasi experience” is just that. A full experience. Last week I left with 2 of the best scones I’ve ever tasted packed carefully for me by a waitress named Abby (she heard me gushing) and four huge bunches of bulbs (rhizomes actually) and cuttings- pink ginger, red ginger and two types of heliconia – carefully packed and labelled by Mr Che. Ready for my flight home on Tropic Air.

International Sources

WestJet Traffic Continues Surge
WestJet traffic is continuing to surge, according to the Canada-based carrier’s latest data report. WestJet reported 2.174 billion revenue passenger miles in May, a 7.5 percent increase over the same period in 2017. The carrier also showed a 5.4 percent increase in available seat miles in May to 2.646 billion, while load factor rose by 1.6 percentage points to 82.2 percent last month. WestJet has been on an expansion push in recent years to the Caribbean and Mexico, from its high-profile launch of new flights to Belize to a continued expansion in Mexico.

Videos