Recent Belize News, 6/21/2018 to 6/30/2018, BelizeNews.com

Caye Caulker Lobster Fest 2018

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

Environmentalists weigh in on the Belize Barrier Reef removal from UNESCO’S In-Danger list
After nine years of being ‘in-danger’ listed, the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System (BBRRS) was removed from the UNESCO World Heritage Center list of ‘World Heritage’ in Danger on Tuesday, June 26th. This decision was made by the World Heritage Committee (WHC) during their 42nd annual meeting in Manama, Bahrain. Belize is being praised locally and worldwide for this monumental achievement in saving its coral reef. However, the real task begins now, as the country needs to put measures in place to avoid the reef system from being re-listed. A few Belizean environmentalists have voiced their recommendations on what they believe can help to keep the BBRRS off the In-Danger list.

Stabbing incident leaves 1 man injured
On Friday, June 29th at around 5:30AM the San Pedro Police responded to a stabbing incident involving 35-year-old Marlon Escobar. The resident of Tarpon Street, San Pedro Town, received two stab wounds to the left side of his back, two to the right side of his back and one to his left chest. According to the police report, Escobar arrived at the San Pedro Dr. Otto Rodriguez Polyclinic II at around 12:43am. He was treated and later air lifted to KHMH about around 2AM. The attending doctor informed the Police that he forgot to alert officers on the matter prior to and after air lift.

Dia de San Pedro 2018 celebrations are officially underway
The traditional ‘Dia de San Pedro,’ festivities were officially declared by Mayor Daniel Guerrero during an opening ceremony on Thursday, June 28th, at the Honourable Louis Sylvestre sporting complex. The event was attended by both island residents and a delegation from the Mexican State of Quintana Roo, who are joining the festivities this year at the invitation of The San Pedro Town Council. The annual festival is held in honour of St. Peter (San Pedro) the Patron Saint of fishermen on the island. The official ceremonies included speeches, live entertainment and a spectacular display of fireworks. On Friday, June 29th, a traditional fishermen’s mass and breakfast took place starting at 4AM at the San Pedro Roman Catholic Church.

Four island students invited to join 15th NABS Youth Summit in Roatan, Honduras
Four island students: Alyssa Martin, Liandra Bowden, Ixchel Mejia, and Joshua Requena are traveling to Roatan, Honduras on Friday, June 29th, representing the Ramon’s Village Resort Dive Shop and Ambergris Caye at the 15th annual National Association of Black Divers Youth Education Summit (NABSYES). The students are being accompanied by two chaperones, Senior Dive instructor at Ramon’s Adolfo Ayuso and Chairman of the San Pedro Tour Operators Association (SPTOA) Everette Anderson. During the summit, which runs from Saturday, June 30th to Saturday, July 7th, participants will take part in scuba classes, orientation on lionfish, a mangrove project and coral restoration among other activities.

Ambergris Today

Ramon's Village Mourns The Death Of Ramon Nunez
The Ramon’s Village Family Celebrates the Homegoing of Belize’s Greatest Legend Ramon Núñez. For 40 years, Ramon was the vibrant host of our resort, the highlight for visitors and celebrities from around the world, and the trademark of Belize. He won the hearts of everyone he met with his radiant smile, genuine hugs and contagious laugh. Thanks for all the wonderful memories, Ramon! We will cherish them forever in our hearts. 1940-2018

Belize To Promote National Campaign For Renewable Energy In Tourism Sector
On June 20, 2018, The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation (MTCA) and the Development Finance Corporation (DFC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to promote the uptake of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (RE/EE) technologies in the Tourism Sector.

Closure Of Conch Season 2018
The Fisheries Department hereby reminds fishermen and the public that the Conch Season will be closed from July 01, 2018 to September 30, 2018. This is in accordance with Regulation 6 of the Subsidiary Regulations (Chapter 210’s of the Laws of Belize – Revised Edition 2003).

Tropic Air Adds Flight Between Belize City International And Placencia
Tropic Air announced on Thursday, June 28, 2018, a substantial increase in flights for visitors to, and residents of, Placencia. The increase is effective November 15th, 2018 and represents the company’s confidence in the growth of tourism to Placencia, Maya Beach, Seine Bight and the surrounding communities.

Misc Belizean Sources

SOUTH AMBERGRIS CAYE NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH CLEANUP
SATURDAY July 14th, 2018. Please come out and join the South AC Neighborhood Watch on Saturday, July 14th to help clean our community in the south. We will start the day by meeting at the Sub-Station at 7:00am for groups and areas to be assigned. Kids are also welcome to join the beach cleanup! The cleanup should take no more than 2 hours as long as enough people participate.

Tern Nesting In Placencia Inner Lagoon
Look what I found in the Lagoon, A Big Happy Family 150-300 strong Least Terns, over 30 nest

CPBL & CWU sign new 4-years CBA
“Although we would have liked to do this earlier, we are indeed pleased we are doing this today, and that our Members will be collecting their back pay in July for the period December 23rd, 2017 to July 2nd, 2018. Christian Workers Union (CWU) also wants to thank the Citrus Products of Belize Limited’s (CPBL’s) Negotiating Team comprising Mr. Nikita Usher, Mr. William Popper Jr. and Ms. Shannon Castillo, for what I understand was not a contentious process.” These were the comments of CWU President Evan Mose Hyde following this morning’s signing of a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) between CPBL and CWU at CPBL’s Pomona Compound. For CPBL, Chief Financial Officer, Kent Herrera, also applauded the negotiations leading up to today’s CBA signing, noting that the CWU has engaged with CPBL in a fashion cognizant of the ongoing challenges facing the Citrus Industry over recent years, and into the future. Mr. Herrera also thanked CPBL Board of Directors for granting approval, despite the challenging times the industry is currently facing.

Miss Caye Caulker Lobster Fest 2018-2019 Meloney Arnold!
Congratulations Meloney Arnold, Miss Caye Caulker Lobster Fest 2018-2019!

CITO Successfully Earns ISO 27001 Re-certification
On June 5, 2018, the Central Information Technology Office (CITO) was successfully re-certified as being compliant with ISO 27001:2013 standards. The ISO 27001 standards provisions provide an effective way for CITO to reduce the risk of any information security breach through the implementation of a set of procedures, processes, reports, and documents that define how it manages its information security. Through team effort and the generous support of the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund (Taiwan ICDF), CITO was able to earn its re-certification.

CARICOM Youth Ambassador Corp to host annual session with Secretary General of CARICOM
On Monday, July 2, 2018, the CARICOM Youth Ambassador Corp will be hosting its annual session with Secretary General of CARICOM, Mr. Irwin LaRoque, to discuss pertinent issues affecting youth in the region and the role they play. Persons who want to be a part of the forum via Facebook can do so through the Caribbean Community Youth Ambassadors Facebook page. Monday's interaction is scheduled for 3:30 pm Belize time. — with CARICOM YOUTH AMBASSADOR PROGRAM (Belize).

HIV testing at public places today June 29th
Come out and be informed, get tested! Our efforts in HIV prevention are as a collective!

Caye Caulker Liquor Licensing
The Caye Caulker Village Council hereby reminds the General Public that in order to sell liquor they must be in possession of a liquor license issued by the Caye Caulker Liquor License Board. If you are not in possession of one, we regret to inform that you are operating in contravention of the law. All vendors setting up stalls for vending purposes need to have had previous arrangements with the Caye Caulker Lobster Fest Committee. Vendors without prior arrangements will be charged additional vending fees. Absolutely no vendors will be allowed in the assigned no vending areas. Thank you Caye Caulker Village Council

Summer splash 2018

Channel 7

Teenager Shot Down In City
Belize City has been enjoying a break from the gun murders for the last few weeks, but that peace was disturbed last night with the cruel killing of 17 year-old Warren Rudon. It happened at 7:40 last night, when the teenager was walking on Lovely Lane. Reports to 7News are that Rudon was his way back from a shop, and he was going towards the "Jungle" area when a man ambushed him and shot him in the chin. This happened right down the street from a police checkpoint on Pickstock Street, but the cops could only rush him to the KHMH. Today, we found his grieving family at his Oleander Street home, and his cousin spoke with us off-camera. She told us that the family doesn't know much about his killing:

Did Public Park End Up In The Hands of Minister’s Side-man?
Our next story is about a man known as Professor Chumba, the Fire Eater. But, it's not about his pyrotechnic prowess, it's actually about a park. Chumba's legal name is Ronald Reneau - and the City Council has learned that he is the leaseholder for what they thought was a public park. It's Louise Bevans Park on Central American Boulevard. Looking at it today - it's no more than a rundown and overgrown lot - but residents say that up until 10 years ago - it was an active park. But it's also parcel 1801, which, according to an internal city Council memo it is no longer public; it's private property leased to Reneau. The discovery has raised eyebrows because Reneau is the side-man for Area Representative Anthony Boots Martinez. Today we went to Chumba's home on Pen Road to ask him if he's the leaseholder - and what we got was no less than an advanced course in bush lawyer argumentation. Sound confusing? You will be too after you hear from the Professor:..

Central Bank Revokes Choice Bank’s License
Last night we told you about the press release from Choice Bank - saying it would allow depositors to make an orderly withdrawal of their monies. This, after two months of putting all funds on lockdown. It sounded so good - and was no doubt a relief for depositors - who had been worried since April that their money may have been in serious peril. Well, it turns out that Choice Bank was playing games with that release. All that stuff about orderly and incremental withdrawals? Not going to happen! And here's why: The Central Bank revoked the Offshore Bank's license today: Choice Bank can no longer conduct business in Belize. It's a stunner after last night's release which made it seem that the bank's affairs had normalised. But, apparently, that was just a front. In a statement that will air as an ad later in this newscast, the Governor of the Central Bank Joy Grant explains why:

PUP Set New Date For Belmopan Convention
Last night, we told you how the PUP politician, Arthur Saldivar, managed to stop his party's standard bearer convention for Belmopan with a Supreme Court lawsuit. Well, tonight, the Party released a statement giving an undertaking to the court that the convention will be put off until Sunday, July 8. The injunction hearing is set for next week Friday - so the PUP seems confident that they will succeed - and be able to proceed with the convention. For his part, though, Saldivar is asking the court to reverse the decision of the party's vetting committee which disqualified as a candidate.

Hon. Julius, Deputy No More?
And in other news out of the PUP, tonight there are credible reports that the party's Deputy Leader For The West, Julius Espat has resigned that executive post. When we reached Espat for comment he would not confirm and only said, quote, "No comment at this moment." We won't look too deeply into that curt remark - only to say that if it wasn't so, and if all was well - Espat would have issued a clear denial - his "no comment" is far from that and clearly suggests the opposite of a denial. We do know that Espat has never been an ardent supporter of Leader John Briceno's - and has been keeping himself on the sideline for some time - away from the center of the action.

Second Accident Victim Dies
She was in a terrible accident on the Western Highway 12 days ago - and, yesterday, 32 year old Sandra Maribel Garcia died from her injuries. Her friend, 26 year old Neidy Cifuentes who was driving died shortly after the accident. Now, the only survivor is Sandra Garcia's 9 year old daughter - who was with them in the vehicle as it ran off the road between miles 71 and 72. Alcohol is said to have been a factor in causing the accident.

Sunday Showdown Between Cycling Federation and “B-Cat”
A showdown is brewing in the cycling community over the suspension of elite rider Brandon Cattouse - and it will come to a head in 36 hours. Cattouse has tested positive for a banned substance and been suspended by NADO, the National Anti Doping Organization. He's serving a provisional suspension for that. But, as we told you last night, his attorney Hector Guerra has gotten a Supreme Court injunction against the Cycling Federation and the National Anti Doping Organization of Belize forcing them to allow Cattouse to ride in Sunday's National Road Championship. The ex parte injunction reads, quote, "the defendants are restrained…from preventing… (Cattouse's) registration or participation (in the)…the National Road Championship."

Light Bill Gwen Up
If you've been looking on with concern about the rising cost of living, tonight, you may want to think about ways to cut down on your electricity consumption. That's because the Public Utilities Commission has approved an increase in your electricity rates. Those mean electricity rates will increase from 36.9 cents per kilo-watt hour, to 39.3 cents per kilowatt-hour effective Sunday - and it will remain in effect for two years. That's a 6.24% increase, still less than the 7.1% increase that BEL was requesting. At the initial stage, the PUC was only prepared to increase it by 4.4%, but BEL objected, and an independent expert had to be brought in. After the review by this expert, it was decided that the PUC would lean more towards BEL's initial request. Today, the PUC held a press conference to announce the final decision, and here's how the Chairman described the back and forth to arrive at the final figure:

Re-Registration Starts On Monday
It's 11 years late, but re-registration is finally here. The last time the government cleaned up the voter's list was 1997, over two decades ago. The Elections and Boundaries Office has been preparing for the two month long operation which starts on Monday, July second. They have budgeted about $8 million to get it done and today Chief Elections Officer, Josephine Tamai, told the media how they plan to get it done ... Josephine Tamai - Chief Elections Officer: "From the Elections and Boundaries standpoint we are prepared for the mass re-registration commencing this Monday the 2nd of July, 2018. As persons know this exercise commences on Monday and the mass registration at the various registration centers will close on the 31st of August 2018. After the 31st, which starts on the 1st of September then persons will be required to visit our regular registration offices throughout the country to do their registration."

To Catch a Thief…
Tonight, a Belmopan homeowner is asking your help in finding this man, Claudio Gongora - who he says broke into his home yesterday evening. This security footage captures Gongora peering over the homeowner's back verandah and then hopping over the balccony and slipping through the yard. Best part? He was wearing the homeowner's plaid shirt - which he put on after taking a shower. That's right - this burglar seemed to have been looking for some kind of makeover - because he stole 4 fancy watches, including an Omega and 3 Movado's valued in the thousands. Outrageous! - and that's because this seasoned burglar allegedly did all this after ripping the home alarm off the wall.

Another Alleged Murderer Gets Bail
Today the last of three men charged with the murder of 61 year old George Blanco is out on bail. In 2013, Roque Middleton, along with Alton Bailey and Roger Hernandez, were accused of shooting Blanco while he was behind the wheel of a meat delivery truck, and stealing about $10,000 from his employer, Abraham Penner. Middleton appeared before Justice Adolph Lucas who offered him bail at $25,000. Justice Lucas granted the bail under the conditions that Middleton appeared before Justice Williams on September 26th and any other day she requests. Middleton must also check in at the Queen Street Police Station every Friday starting next week. As we have reported, bail for murder had been unheard of for decades, but it is becoming more common these past few months.

Israel To Belize: “Your Time To Decide”
Last night we shoed you part one of our interview with the Deputy Chief of Mission for the Israeli Embassy in Mexico, Alon Lavi. He discussed the protest over the Israeli sponsored community policing course - dismissing it as misconceived. But, in our quite short interview we also pressed him to speak about the history of Israeli Guatemala relations which have been very cozy for decades - so much so that Israeli supplied arms to Guatemala's military during its genocidal civil war. That's also the period when Guatemala was threatening an invasion of Belize. But this diplomat wanted to leave the past in the past:... Alon Lavi, Israeli Deputy Chief of Mission - Mexico: "And we keep hearing about the past, whether it was or not, whether it was accurate or not, how you describe it, but we would like to move forward."

UDP AG Fills PUP Bookshelves
Many times on this newscast we've shown you press conferences from the PUP Party Leader's Office out at the Charter House building on the northern highway. And everytime we go into their conference room, we can't help but notice those big empty bookshelves - which seem to suggest that reading is not a favorite pastime of those who gather there. But they will be empty no more. Today, in a rare show of bi-partisanship, Attorney General Mike Peyreffite went to the Party Leader's Office to hand over a full set of the Laws of Belize. He explained why:…

Downtown Rejuvenation Project Starts In Yabra
Today, the Belize City House of Culture and Downtown Rejuvenation Project inaugurated Phase One of the Yaborough Green Restoration Project with the opening of the new basketball court. Albert Division Area Rep. Tracey Taegar-Panton and her team were there to celebrate the first step in restoring not only the Yabra area, but the constituency's historical sites as well. Here's what Panton told us about the project and it's future... Hon. Tracey Taegar Panton - Area Rep., Albert: "Well this project was envisioned quite some time again, maybe as far back as 2009 in which we wanted to preserve the green spaces in our community and also the colonial buildings in our community, which serves to tell. Allows us to congregate and also helps to share our history."

The Santander Situation, Part IV
We also got a chance to speak with Minister of State Taegar-Panton about the fine assessed on the Santander Sugar Group. They've been in hot water with the Ministry of Trade for selling sugar on the local market without proper permissions. The EPZ Committee has suggested the maximum fine - which isn't all that much, really. Here's what Taegar-Panton had to say about the fines... Hon. Tracey Taegar-Panton - Minister of Trade: "There were 5 infractions that the EPZ Committee found and they applied the 5 to the fullest extent of the law. They are required to settle an amount of US $9000 with the government of Belize for the infractions. And of course they have been properly advised and warned even that if such infractions should occur in the future they run the risk of losing their EPZ certification."

Fisherfolk Heroes
The Wildlife Conservation Society held it's 4th annual Outstanding Fisher of the Year Award today. The WCS recognized the fisherfolk who have gone above and beyond to positively represent the often under-appreciated fishing community. We spoke to the WCS's Country Director, Ralna Lewis, as well as one of the awardees. Here's what they had to say... Ralna Lewis - Asst. Country Director, WCS: "So this is the fourth year that we're having the FIsher of the Year Award ceremony. It's a means for us to recognize our outstanding fishers in the Belize fishing community. Some of the criteria we use for selecting these individuals are: Those that contribute actively to the fishing industry. That means they're active fishers and as a result of that they're contributing to the production as well as contributing to the economy of our country. In addition to that we also look at fishers who are involved in organizing fisher associations actively involved in the fishing cooperative as well. SO that they can provide a united voice on behalf of the fishing community."

Titan Case to CCJ
4 months ago, we told you that Bahamians Rohn Knowles and Kelvin Leach, the owners of Titan International Securities, were going all the way to the Caribbean Court of Justice. They've been out of business now for almost 4 years, and they still insist that the Government was at fault for shutting them down. That's because, back in September 2014, the Anti-Drug Unit cleaned out their offices at the Matalon Building. The ADU was acting for the Financial Intelligence Unit, which was working with the US Government based a Federal indictment against the Bahamians. They sued the Government for that excessive search and seizure, and Justice Courtney Abel ruled in their favor, awarding them 8.8 million dollars in compensatory damages. The Government disagreed with the ruling and appealed it.

KHMH Has a New Boss
And, finally tonight, the KHMH has a new CEO. She is Michelle Cox Hoare, a career registered Nurse Administrator with 33 years of experience in the Belizean Healthcare System. She holds a Master's Degree in Public Health, a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing Administration and was previously the Director of Nursing Services at the KHMH. She was not considered among the frontrunners to take the job at the KHMH after Dr. Adrian Coye left in May but, she had been holding over since then, and is as a choice which will ensure continuity.

Channel 5

Teenager Warren Rudon Murdered in Belize City
The last murder in Belize City took place on June fourteenth, but that spell was broken on Thursday night when seventeen-year old Warren Rudon was executed on Lovely Lane. The [...]

PUC Talks Mean Electricity Rate Increase
Brace up because beginning on Sunday, your light bill is going up for the next two years. This follows a decision taken on Tuesday by the Public Utilities Commission as [...]

PUC Outlines Expert Findings
When B.E.L. objected to an initial decision by the commission, an independent expert was appointed to review that conclusion and make recommendations to determine regulated values, tariffs, fees and charges [...]

Choice Bank’s Licensed Revoked
There are new developments tonight in respect of Choice Bank following an announcement on Thursday that the institution would be allowing its customers to withdraw funds in three tranches leading [...]

Central Bank appoints a liquidator for Choice Bank
The problems of the bank started months ago when it started experiencing a liquidity crisis and was forced to suspend all withdrawals from deposit accounts. By May, the central bank [...]

Titans International Seeks Redress at the CCJ
The Caribbean Court of Justice presided over a matter earlier today in which the principals of Titan International Securities are suing the Government of Belize. The lawsuit arises from the [...]

Sol Gen explains why Titans International Securities Folded
Solicitor General Nigel Hawke appears on behalf of the Attorney General. During his turn before the bench, the Sol Gen argued that Titan International Securities folded as a result of [...]

Man Accused of Murder Granted Bail
From the CCJ in Trinidad to the Supreme Court in Belize, a third and last person accused with the 2013 murder of sixty-one year old truck driver George Blanco was [...]

Elections and Boundaries Department is Ready for Re-registration
Chief Elections Officer Josephine Tamai says that her department is fully prepared to carry out a successful re-registration exercise. Beginning on Monday, dozens of centers spread across all thirty-one constituencies [...]

Senate to confirm electoral commission next week
A special sitting of the Senate has been scheduled for Thursday, July fifth. News Five has learnt that four resolutions will be tabled, one relating to the appointment of members [...]

Elections and Boundaries: No political interference in the Re-registration
Three weeks ago the Office of the Prime Minister announced major cabinet changes. Among the adjustments was the transfer of the Elections and Boundaries Department from Minister Hugo Patt to [...]

Local TV & Radio Stations to comply with copyright regulations
Copyright compliance remains an issue for the local broadcast media to bring television and radio stations into conformity with existing regulations. Today, licensees from across the country met with the [...]

Local Media must comply by end of the year
Broadcasters have six months to get in line with local content. Burns says she considers that timeline is adequate. Francine Burns, Chair, Belize Broadcasting Authority “Really, this is not [...]

Employer Stabs Employee in San Pedro
A San Pedro man was stabbed multiple times this morning. Police say that thirty-five-year-old bartender Marlon Escobar had a misunderstanding with his employer Ahmad Mousa, owner of Marlins Bar in [...]

Teens Report on how Crime and Violence is affecting their generation
The first six months of this year, has been bloody especially in the City where on Thursday night the murder of another teenager was recorded. There are more patrols on [...]

Will Belizeans Abroad be allowed in the re-registration?
The organization, Belizeans United for Equal Rights at Home and Abroad, says that it is being disenfranchised from re-registering. Any eligible Belizean living oversees who wants to re-register, must first [...]

OAS Observers are not need for re-registration
In a letter dated May thirtieth, Leader of the Opposition, John Briceño wrote to the Prime Minister Dean Barrow, calling on the Government to invite O.A.S. observers to oversee the [...]

David Flores of Copper Bank is Belize’s Fisher of the Year
The celebration of fisherfolk month culminated today in Belize City with the Fisher of the Year Award. As a part of the celebrating and recognizing the contributions of fisherfolk to [...]

Opposition Leader receives Law Books from Attorney General
The Attorney General’s Ministry donated five thousand dollars worth of law books to the Opposition today. Michael Peyrefitte dropped off the law books at the Leader of the Opposition’s Office, [...]

National Testing Day held across the country of Belize
National H.I.V. Testing Day was observed today in Belize. The National AIDS Commission conducted testing around the country aiming to test about twelve hundred persons. The day was first observed [...]

Yabra Basketball Court Gets a makeover
Today the renovated Yabra basketball court in Belize City was officially opened. The refurbished facility now features a covered structure and additional upgrades. The project is a part of the [...]

LOVE FM

Electricity rates go up once more
As of July 1, Belizeans will see an increase in their electricity bills. The Public Utilities Commission has approved a 6.24 percent average increase in the Mean Electricity Rate, an increase from its initial decision made some weeks ago. This translates to just under forty cents per kilowatt-hour. This is the PUC’s final decision in …

Caregivers learn child stimulation through art
The Department of Human Services’ Roving Caregivers Program is hosting Raquel Robles Pacheco as she trains members of the Roving Caregivers Program. Kim Vasquez Youth development Officer at NICH told us more. Kim Vasquez Youth development Officer at NICH: The Roving caregivers program is a program that is under the Department of human services, it …

PUC accepts Independent Expert’s recommendation for BEL interconnecting Caye Caulker to the national grid
Another matter that was subject to review by the Independent Expert was the matter of BEL interconnecting Caye Caulker to the national grid. The PUC believes it will be more cost effective for the company. Presently Caye Caulker runs on a diesel generator and is considered BEL’s most expensive cost of supply. The PUC had …

Basketball court in the Yabra community sees upgrade
The governments of Belize and the Republic of China Taiwan today inaugurated the Yarborough Court facility in Belize City. Our intern, Malique Mariano was there to report on the event. Reporter: The residents of Yabra now have access to a newly renovated basketball court. The initiative falls under Belize City House of Culture and Downtown …

National Testing Day sees shift in public response
The National Aids Commission held the annual National HIV testing Day. It was held simultaneously across the country. In Belize City it was held at the Battlefield Park. Arthur Usher Communications and Programs Officer at the National Aids Commission told us more. Arthur Usher, Communications and Programs Office, NAC: “Again the idea is to bring …

Government of Belize fines Santander Sugar Limited
Santander Sugar Limited has been fined by the Government of Belize for infractions that the Export Processing Zone Committee defined following meetings earlier this month. Minister of State of Trade and Investment Tracey Panton explains. Minister of State of Trade and Investment Tracey Panton: There were five infractions that the EPZ comity found and they applied the fine to the fullest extent …

San Pedro resident allegedly stabbed by his boss
San Pedro resident Marlon Escobar is recovering from stab wounds after he was attacked last night on the island. Police report that Escobar had a misunderstanding with his employer, Ahmad Musa, owner of Marlins Bar in San Pedro who is believed to have stabbed him four times in his back and once in his chest. …

Criminal and internal investigations ongoing in Camalote Police shooting
Police Corporal Luis Matute of Camalote Village remains on duty as the police department continues to investigate the incident in which the officer shot 44-year-old Truman Parham. As reported before, the incident happened around 6:30 on Monday evening. Today ACP Joseph Myvett explained what they understood happened after Parham reportedly entered Matute’s yard wielding a …

Shooting victim recovers, police seek three suspects
Police are looking for three persons in connection with the shooting of nineteen-year-old Valentino Ack. He was shot while walking in Bella Vista Village in the Toledo District on Tuesday night sometime after nine o’clock. ACP Myvette: Valerio back 19 years laborer of Bella Vista village was seen with serval gunshot injuries, one to his …

Foward Operating Base opened on Hunting Caye
A Strategic Forward Operating Base was opened on Hunting Caye on Wednesday. The facility, was completed with the assistance of the US Southern Command. Minister of National Security, John Saldivar says the base is a critical point for deterring illicit activities. Minister of National Security, John Saldivar: Hunting Caye has been an integral part of …

Still no leads on whereabouts of Kidnapped Omero Campos
The search for businessman Omero Campos is ongoing, but police say they are unable to say whether he is still alive. Campos …

Did a dispute lead Sabino Domiguez to his death?
Earlier this week Police charged two persons, 40-year-old Arnulfo Nunez and 39-year-old Hilcia Cano Arevalo, for the murder …

Police joins search for Clarence Brown
Police have also launched a search for 25-year-old Clarence Lorenzo Brown Junior who has been missing since June 13. He was …

US Sanctions affect Belize’s ties with Venezuela
Under the PetroCaribe program, Belize received fuel from Venezuela through a special arrangement. The program was also able …

Waight: no plans in place to lower fuel prices
Motorists continue to lament the high price of fuel in Belize. A couple organizations have called on the Prime Minister to …

Amandala

Murder, then suicide in Tacoma, Washington
A report from the Associated Press (AP) out of Tacoma, Washington, on Sunday confirmed that an American man, Malcolm Tucker, 49, killed his Belizean wife, Rushan Tucker, 35, and then killed himself. According to news reports, Tucker took his two daughters, ages 19 and 8, to have breakfast on Sunday morning, June 24, and left them at a coffee shop, telling them that he was going to buy groceries. When Tucker did not return after an hour had passed, his oldest daughter texted him.

Heritage Bank investigating fake emails
On Tuesday, the Amandala editor received an email, purportedly from Heritage Bank, which addressed a “dear user,” and stated that funds had been deducted from his account, and advised him to “login here” to see the amount deducted. The most concerning part? The editor does not have an account at that bank. There has been evidence on Facebook that suggests that others are receiving this email as well. When we called Heritage Bank, front desk personnel told us to “just disregard the email.” They also assured us that they were investigating to find the person or persons behind this scam.

Tonight, Warren Rudon, 17, shot dead on Lovely Lane
Just before 8:00 p.m. tonight, gunfire claimed the life of Warren Rudon, a 17-year-old minor who, according to street sources, was shot in the face on Lovely Lane and died. When we arrived on the scene around 8:30 tonight, police confirmed that Rudon had already been taken to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH). When we checked with hospital workers at the KHMH Emergency Room, we were directed to the morgue, where, they told us, the body had already been taken.

PUP battles PUP in court
In Belmopan, five persons had applied to contest the People’s United Party’s Belmopan constituency convention, but the applications of two of the applicants, Patrick Andrews and attorney Arthur Saldivar, were rejected by the PUP’s vetting committee. The vetting committee gave the nod to retired military officer Oscar Mira, who is reportedly a favorite of PUP leader, Hon. John Briceño, and two other candidates, Weizsman Pat, a former public officer and Michelle Rodriguez, a newcomer to the PUP’s camp who has been rumored to be the “significant other” of Melvin “Flippin” Hulse, the former UDP Stann Creek West area representative.

Clarence Brown, 25, missing in San Pedro
Clarence Lorenzo Brown, 25, a tour guide of the DFC area of San Pedro, was reported missing on Thursday, June 21, by his mother, who has not seen him since June 13. Brown’s motorcycle was found abandoned on an unnamed street in the town. Police said that on the morning of June 13, Brown called his mother and told her that he was leaving his job for employment at another resort. However, people at the resort where he said he had found work, said he did not come there and had not been seen.

Mothering a space to the next level: Margaret Reynolds and Spoken Word 501
For the past five years poet Margaret Reynolds has created a safe space of freedom for poets of all origins to share their poetry and the light of their voices and as she says “release it as it flows”. Margaret, with this simple and genius formula, has with the help of fellow poet Kyraan Gabourel, himself a sustaining force of this poetry night, and the contributions of over thirty poets, generated a space ripe with creative fire and the meaningful exchange of ideas. Through her respect for the word, the human imagination and her fellow artists, Margaret has mothered us poets into a family of creative sharing and listening and now publication.

FFB calls female players to begin training for Belize Girls’ U-15 National Team
The Belize Girls’ U-15 National Team will begin training to compete in the CONCACAF U-15 Girls’ Championship which will be held at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, USA from August 6-13, 2018. The Football Federation of Belize (FFB) is calling the following players to camp on Saturday, June 30 to Monday, July 2. All players should be at the FFB HQ at 8:30 a.m.

Holy Family RC girls and Independence Primary boys win National Primary Schools Football Championship 2018
The female and male primary school champions from the six districts of the country converged on the capital city, Belmopan, last Friday, June 22, where they competed for the national primary school football championship of Belize. The female games were played at the FFB Stadium, while the boys played all except their championship finals at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium. The champion teams representing their respective districts were:

Cricket update
Greetings once again from the Belize National Cricket Association (BNCA)! As was reported last week, the playoffs for the Sir Barry Bowen Harrison Parks Cricket Competition 2018 has commenced. The first games of the three-game series of the first round was played on Saturday, June 23. The results are as follows: Easy Does It won over Sunrise with a score of 189 to 67. For Easy Does It, Cyril Banner III was the Man of the Match, as he top scored with 31 runs and also took 4 wickets. For Sunrise, Jevon Wade top scored with 16 runs, and Mr. Edison Parks took 5 wickets.

Firms Basketball League 2018 tournament tips off with 6 weekend games at Civic
Here is a recap from the Firms Basketball League (FBL) Opening Night, June 22, games at the Belize Civic Center: Leading Tuff E Nuff to an 85-65 victory over Gladiators was Douglas Valley with 25 points and 18 rebounds. For the Gladiators, Keith Pollard, Jr. came up with 14 pts and 14 rebs. In the second game of the night, defending champs Dragons controlled the game from start to finish against Providers, to secure the 80-66 victory. Andrew Vasquez led the way for the Dragons, with an efficient 14 pts, 8 rebs and 4 assts. High man for Providers was Justin Bailey with 19 pts and 11 rebs.

The Ripper visits
A prominent figure in Belize City 1st Division football from the glory days of the 1970s, Phillip “The Ripper” Coye spent over an hour chatting with a couple of his former Charger teammates, yours truly, Chilor and Russell Vellos, and manager, The X, “back a di zinc fence” this morning. Of course, we happily reminisced on those football days and memorable events, and shared updates on the situation with some of our veteran ‘ballers, some of whom have passed, in recent days. An original Plaza ‘baller who grew up just across the street from Cinderella Plaza at the Coye family residence on Freetown Road, The Ripper has been making regular visits from the U.S., where he has resided the past few decades, and plans to soon return to retire permanently at his new home in Corozal.

Editorial: Belize or Israel: country or God?
There is a saying that there are no atheists in trenches, trenches being holes in the ground men dig during war to shelter themselves from bullets, artillery shells, bombs, and so on. (Atheists are people who don’t believe in God.) Scared to death as men are in these trenches during battle, everybody is praying to God, even those who may be non-believers or skeptical about His existence. They say that religion is faith-based. There is a point where religious people have to embrace faith totally, and, in effect, abandon reason, or reasonable argument. In World War I, Christian England and Christian France were fighting against Christian Germany. Whose side was God on? In World War II, Christian England and Christian France were fighting against Christian Germany and Christian Italy, which is the home of the Vatican, incidentally. Whose side was God on? When Sunni Muslims and Shiite Muslims fight against each other, whom does Allah favor?

From the Publisher
This is a column I’ve wanted to write for a long time, but always kept putting off. In Belize, we are having a very difficult time educating all of our children. That is because the education system in Belize was designed, from the very beginning in the early nineteenth century, to prioritize the education of the children of the local elite, so as to enable them to compete at regional and international levels. If you look at the hype following the recent primary school examinations (PSE), the media focus is on the student performances at the very top, such students being a small minority. Without demeaning the top students’ performances in any way, I would say their successes are reflective of the socio-economic comfort zone in which most of them were operating. The matter of all those children at the base who may be described as being rejected by the education system as it is presently structured, and as our society is presently structured, is not a matter on which Belizeans want to focus.

Boycott Israel, say George and Candy
Dear Editor, We join with those who are protesting the decision of the government to allow for the Israeli police to train the Belize Police Department. Belize voted to condemn the recent killings by Israeli Armed Forces of Palestinians who were non-violently protesting. Belize needs to stand firmly on the side of justice. That involves condemning Israel for all their atrocities. Not only training by Israeli police and military must be banned; we also need to rescind the decision that allows Israelis to freely come and go through Belize without the need of a visa.

Why Guat oligarchy praying for a NO vote
This gentleman, Dean Wayland (see his letter to the editor last Friday), was pretty harsh on the YES to the ICJ vote. Hn, those of us who don’t have the ledda skin kud-a-get tochiz. Anyway, let’s skip cruelty and jump to his suggestion that we populate the border. The idea of populating the border is not a new one. I get the sense that most Belizeans are with the idea of us setting down some real roots along that border line. For sure it would deter our aggressive neighbors. But the environmentalists say we need full “tree” protection in the critical watersheds in the Chiquibul and the Columbia forests. They have prevailed.

Looking back at pitbull attacks
In Tuesday’s Amandala, we reported that a 2-year-old boy, Kyle Carter, was viciously attacked by a pitbull that belonged to a family member who lives in a separate house in the yard in which the boy resides. Kyle’s grandmother expressed surprise about what happened, because, she said, the dogs in the yard were “used to” all the persons who lived there. Around 7 p.m. on Saturday night, after Carter entered the yard with his mom, the pitbull suddenly rushed at Carter, sunk his teeth into his face, and dragged him around the yard. When the family finally pried the dog off of him, he was bleeding profusely. Later, at the hospital, Carter had to receive over 100 stitches in his face, and treatment for other injuries he suffered.

Pregnant woman and 3 others shot in Trial Farm
A mass shooting at Trial Farm left four persons, including a pregnant woman, injured, but thankfully, alive. The incident occurred on San Narciso Street at around 7:48 p.m. on Tuesday, June 26, at the home of one of the victims, Nazario Herrera, 25. An initial investigation revealed that Herrera, his pregnant common-law-wife, Diana Ack, 26, and his two friends, Victor Ku, 19, and Monico Gomez, 20, were socializing in front of Herrera’s house, inside the yard, when a man opened the front gate, entered the yard, and started shooting.

Artists for Peace and Common Sense demonstrate against Israeli community police training
An unusual group of protesters, consisting of artists, musicians, writers, poets, historians and thinkers, went to Belmopan this afternoon and unfurled a large red banner with white lettering marked “Artists for Peace and Common Sense” in the vicinity of the National Assembly building, where they made a call to government ministers as they launched their protest against the training of a number of police officers by the Israeli state as part of a “Police and Community” course. Minister of State in the Ministry of National Security, Hon. Elodio Aragon, told 7News that the training being offered by the Israelis will last two weeks and is focused on community policing.

Accused killers of Santos Dominguez, 52, arrested 48 hours later
Police announced today that the suspected killers of Santos Sabrino Guerra Dominguez, 52, have been arrested. They are Arnulfo Nunez Gonzalez, 40, a farmer of the village, and his common-law wife, Hilcia Cano Arevalo, a domestic of the village. Forty-eight hours after Dominguez’ death, Gonzalez and Arevalo were jointly charged with murder and were detained pending arraignment at the Belmopan Magistrate’s Court for the capital offense. Dominguez, a Salvadoran who was visiting Franks Eddy, was hacked to death while walking home alone on a road in the village at about 1:30 Sunday morning.

Machete-man shot by cop
Thurman Parham, 44, a laborer of Camalote, is recovering at the Western Regional Hospital after being shot by Corporal Luis Matute of the Belmopan police. Matute told police that he was at home at about 6:30 Monday evening, in his yard along with his family members, when Parham, armed with a machete, advanced towards him, uttering threatening words. Matute, 43, said that when Parham, who lives in the village, came into the yard and advanced towards him, he identified himself as a police officer and ordered Parham to put down the machete.

The Reporter

Toddler, aged 2, recuperates from pitbull attack; dog put to death
A baby boy, aged two, is recuperating from wounds he suffered when a pitbull dog attacked him as he reached his house at #168 Raccoon Street Extension in Belize City on Saturday night. The baby and his mother, Briana Kelly, had just arrived at their […]

Family disputes police claim that man committed suicide at police station
Police say Lindberg Anthony, 56, a mechanic of Crooked Tree village, Belize district, used his own shirt to hang himself with while he was detained alone inside the holding cell at the Crooked Tree police station where one policeman was stationed on Saturday night. Ladyville […]

Teenager shot with pellet gun in Bella Vista village
Independence police are searching for three suspects, one of whome reportedly shot a 19-year-old Bella Vista resident with a pellet gun on Tuesday night. Valentino Ack was reportedly shot to his right leg, left foot and left arm while he was walking along an unnamed street in […]

Russel Hyde Jr. charged for shooting farmhand in Camalote
Russel Hyde Jr., son of the notorious late Russel Hyde, was charged by police on Tuesday for the Sunday evening shooting of Jose Gonzales, a farmhand who works on Hyde’s farm in Camalote village. Hyde Jr. was arraigned in the Belmopan Magistrate Court on charges of ‘aggravated […]

New book revisits rocky road to passage of Belize’s Domestic Violence Act
At one point in Belize’s history, marital rape was not deemed to be a crime and there were no laws to specifically protect domestic violence victims from vicious attacks perpetrated against them in the home. Today, though, thanks to lobbying efforts of groups like the […]

Gas price goes down following global trend
As promised by the Government of Belize, the price in the cost of fuel saw its first reduction this week, with diesel being the only fuel type to experience a change. On Monday the Belize Bureau of Standards announced that the price per gallon of Diesel would […]

Humans rescue manatee calf from sure death
Often times the sad news is that one or more manatees have been killed because of human recklessness with water crafts, but this week, it was a human in a boat who saved a baby manatee from sure death when the calf came under attack […]

Bad batch of Kellogg’s Smacks cereal in Belize?
As a matter of public safety, the Ministry of Health is warning Belizeans not to eat Kellogg’s Honey Smacks Cereal Products, because it has been linked to an outbreak of salmonella infections in the US. The Ministry sounded the alarm after the Centre for Disease Control and […]

Remittance inflow dips, according to latest World Bank estimates
Remittances to Belize were projected to reach a record US$100 million in 2017, according to an earlier estimate published online by the World Bank, but more recent reports indicate that remittance inflows to Belize may have fallen last year from a reported US$97 million to […]

Prime Minister is okay with CSME’s progress
Amidst criticism from that the Caribbean Community’s Single Market Economy (CSME) has not accomplished enough, Prime Minister Dean Barrow has come to the organization’s defense, saying that he feels it has done “reasonably well.” Barrow acknowledged that the progress has been slow, but noted that integration movements, […]

It’s the truth that hurts
Evan X Hyde, in his “Publisher” column in the Amandala of June 19/18, chose to answer my article “Amandala putting fear into Belizeans” of June 17 in the Reporter. But instead of answering my seven points in going to the ICJ and a call to educate the […]

The Cost of Crime
In last week’s Business Perspective, we spoke about the importance of “buying local”. As an avid reader would recall in that discussion, BCCI’s President Nikita Usher had underscored the importance of supporting our local businesses. Usher, speaking at the recent Made in Belize Expo, reminded: “There is such a thing […]

Editorial
Two weeks ago Mr. Assad Shoman,widely regarded as the foremost authority on the Belize Guatemala territorial dispute, released his latest book: “Guatemala’s Claim to Belize, the Definitive History”. The book is selling in hard-cover in Belize. The price is $70.00. Mr. Shoman, a British-trained lawyer and former Foreign Minister of […]

Unemployment & Cost of Living rise!
Belize’s Gross Domestic Product is up 1.8 percent, but so are unemployment figures – 0.4 percent and the cost of living: the Consumer Price Index is up 0.3 perent, officials of the Statistics Institute of Belize (SIB) reported in a media briefing at the Central […]

Belize Barrier Reef removed from World Heritage sites ‘in-danger’ list
The Belize Barrier Reef system was officially removed from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) list of World Heritage in Danger Sites on Tuesday in Bahrain, during the 42nd meeting of the World Heritage Committee. The Committee deemed that the barrier reef […]

Four shot, including pregnant mother, in Trial Farm
A Trial Farm family in Orange Walk is shaken after a gunman terrorized their yard on Tuesday night, leaving a pregnant woman and three other people wounded. One of the four victims remains in ciritcal condition. According to police, after 7:30 p.m., residents living on […]

Team Belize wins silver in Taste of Caribbean competition
The Belizean delegation that participated in the Taste of the Caribbean culinary competition in Miami, Florida, came home this week with the silver medal in the overall competition. The team comprised of Chef Robertus “Rob” Pronk, as the team manager; two senior chefs, Eva Longsworth […]

Artists protest Israeli training of Belize police
A small group of local artists, on Tuesday, organized a protest in Belmopan under the name, Artists for Peace and Common Sense against the training of Belize police by law enforcement officials from Israel. According to the group, led by artist, Yasser Musa, their discontent […]

CCJ reserves judgment in Justice Awich case
The Caribbean Court of Justice has deferred its judgment in the appeal lodged by Dean Boyce and the British Caribbean Bank Limited in an attempt to have Justice Samuel Awich removed from the Court of Appeal. After a full hearing on Tuesday, the court decided […]

Murder on Pickstock Street!
A minor was reportedly murdered a short while ago in Belize City. The Reporter understands that the victim is a 15 year-old boy of the Lake Independence area and that he was shot dead on Pickstock Street on the north side of the city. The […]

Belize and Taiwan conduct study on flooding in Belize
Belize’s vulnerable flood-prone areas will, over the next three years, be addressed with a view to minimizing the hazards and vulnerabilities in these areas, especially with the effects that climate change can have on a community. The first collaborative effort to address the problem came […]

Breaking Belize News

National AIDS Commission: “National Testing Day” was an encouraging success
The National AIDS Commission (NAC)said today that the first installment of its new initiative “National Testing […]

The enigmatic Mark King wants to be UDP Fort George standard bearer now
Former Lake Independence Area Representative, Mark King, has just announced his candidacy for the United […]

Central Information Technology Office Earns ISO Re-certification
On June 5, 2018, the Central Information Technology Office (CITO) was successfully re-certified as being compliant […]

Three outstanding Belizean Fishers Recognized
Three Belizean fishers – two men and a woman – were this morning recognized in […]

San Ignacio woman dies after fatal traffic accident
On Sunday, June 17, 2018, BBN reported of a traffic accident that claimed the life […]

PUP: Court did not grant injunction for Belmopan Convention
The People’s United Party (PUP) today issued a statement informing that the convention to elect a Standard Bearer […]

Electricity rates going up on July 1
The Belizean public, which has been saddled with months of constant increases in the price […]

Teen boy shot and killed in Belize city
Police are investigating the murder of a 17-year-old Belize city boy. According to police, Warren […]

U.S. Embassy in Belize celebrates 242nd anniversary of U.S. Independence
Last night, the United States Embassy in Belize celebrated the 242nd anniversary of Independence of […]

International Sources

Petrocaribe: 13 Years On, Still Going Strong
Petrocaribe signaled a change in the direction of Venezuela's relations with its neighbors, guided by a vision of solidarity and cooperation. June 29 marks 13 years of Petrocaribe: the strategic oil alliance between Venezuela and Caribbean countries created by former Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez on this day in 2005. The multi-member nation agreement for energy cooperation is a political initiative to facilitate the access of hydrocarbons for Caribbean nations without the adverse consequences of inter-mediation, prevailing market prices and speculation.

ARCHAEOLOGISTS IN MEXICO CITY SAID THE SIZE OF THE TOWER OF HUMAN SKULLS
Archaeologists are trying to figure out where these people were and when they were sacrificed. About the tower of human skulls in Tenochtitlan, the Foundation of which was built in Mexico city, wrote the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. However, despite the written evidence, scientists have long doubted the real existence of tzompantli. Conquistadors destroyed the sanctuary in 1521. But until that time local residents regularly gathered at the Templo Mayor (Great Temple) where the priests tore beating heart and a masterful one accurate shot between two cervical vertebrae were obuslavlivaet body. They removed the scalp, and only then did the holes in the base of the skull to impose it on a pole, like thousands of other bones in the accounts of Huitzilopochtli.

Videos

A Tarantula Wasp has paralized a Tarantula with her powerful sting and working on the burial, .5min. The Tarantula will be burried live after she have laid her eggs inside its body and serve as host and fresh meat for her larva's until they are ready to become wasps.

Channel 5 Obituaries, 6min.

Animals of Belize, 80min.

Happy st Peter's day!, 1/2min.

Día De San Pedro: Cultural presentations!, 3/4min.

Congratulations Meloney Arnold, Miss Caye Caulker Lobster Fest 2018-2019!, 4min.

Re-registration, 2.5min. The re-registration process commences on July 1, 2018. All eligible persons are being encouraged to participate in this Re-registration Exercise. Re-register- “Your Right to Vote Depends on it.”

Dia de San Pedro celebration, 4min.

Dia de San Pedro celebration, 8min.

Charikanari Dancers, 7min.

Beautiful rendition of the national anthem in Maya Mopan, 2.5min. "Land of the Free" sounds patriotic in any language. Here the students of San Francisco de Jeronimo R.C. School render our National Anthem in Mopan Maya.

Belize 2017, 6min. 5 year Anniversary trip! Sharks, sting rays, and eels Oh My!

Belize Dive Cut, 20min.

Message from the Governor of Central Bank of Belize on Choice Bank, 6.5min.

International Football Club Friendly!! Bandits SC vs Honduras Progreso FC, 2.5hr.

Caye Caulker Lobster Fest 2018 | Ms. Lobster Fest Pageant, 17min.

Dawn Drake & ZapOte live in San Pedro, 12min. celebrating Dia de San Pedro and our partnership with people of La Isla Bonita and the San Pedro Town Council!

June 29, 2018

Dawn Drake & ZapOte from New York at Xunantunich!

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

Assad Shoman presents ‘Guatemala’s claim to Belize; The Definitive History’
Former Belizean politician and diplomat Assad Shoman presented his latest book on the Guatemalan territorial claim to Belize in San Pedro Town on Monday, June 25th, at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium. The 75-year-old long-time historian’s six-chapter book, ‘Guatemala’s claim to Belize: The Definitive History’, aims to better educate and prepare Belizean people with the relevant facts and arm them in the present day struggle against the Guatemalan claim. Shoman made it clear that his book does not aim to make a case in favor of against going to the International Court of Justice as the public education campaign leading to the April 10, 2019, Belize referendum heats up, Shoman hopes that with the detailed information in his book, Belizeans will find it easier to make a decision at the polls next year.

Public Officers awarded for years of service
In honour of the United Nation’s Public Service Day (Saturday, June 23rd), several public officers in San Pedro Town were honoured at a social event on Tuesday, June 26th at the International Boat Terminal Lounge behind the Honourable Louis Sylvestre Sporting Complex. The social evening included the presence of Mayor Daniel Guerrero, who distributed certificates of appreciation to the outstanding government workers, particularly those that have devoted over a decade of their service to the country. The celebration also featured great food, refreshments, music and fabulous giveaways via raffles. The event started shortly after 8PM, and after some socializing time Jorge Aldana from The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC), let a short awards ceremony. He commended all public officers on behalf of the SPTC and thanked them for their unconditional service to Ambergris Caye and the country of Belize.

Ambergris Today

Ashley Furniture Store Coming To Belize
Mirab and Co. a family owned business, is taking the consumer market to a whole new level, with its soon to be launched mega department store. The new store is located 1.5 miles on the Phillip Goldson Highway, Belize City, covering a square footage of approximately 100,000 square feet. This 3-story building is the largest department store in Belize. The new facilities will Welcome Home loyal shoppers with several outstanding new features, textures and sensory triggers that will provide a unique and pleasurable shopping experience. The biggest secret being disclosed is the announcement of the first ever Ashley Furniture Home Store in the country of Belize, which will be located on the 3rd floor of the new building. “We saw the potential for expansion a few years ago and decided to deliver on our promise for continuous improvement. We are grateful to our staff and customers and thought that it was time to offer them an upgrade to our existing facilities launched some 18 years ago.”

Flood Prevention Seminar Hosted By Governments Of Taiwan And Belize
The Governments of Taiwan and Belize hosted a Belize Flood Prevention Seminar on Wednesday, June 27, 2018, in Belize City. The seminar had distinguished experts from Taiwan and Belize who shared their experiences and technologies in the following topics (1) Disaster Research and Prevention Strategy, (2) Flooding disaster simulation and early warning technology in urban areas, (3) Disaster Prevention in Using Geographic Information Systems(GIS).

Misc Belizean Sources

Closure of conch season
The Fisheries Department hereby reminds fishermen and the public that the Conch Season will be closed from July 01, 2018 to September 30, 2018. This is in accordance with Regulation 6 of the Subsidiary Regulations (Chapter 210’s of the Laws of Belize – Revised Edition 2003). The public is reminded that no person or establishment shall have in possession any conch during the closed season. Any person or establishment found in possession of conch during the closed season will be charged and prosecuted in a Court of Law in accordance to the Fisheries Regulations. The Department can also be reached by e-mail at fisheries_department@fisries.gov.bz.

Checking on young macaws
During the bio-monitoring period of scarlet macaws, Dr. Isabelle Durand who is an FCD Board member and Director of the Belize Wildlife and Referral Clinic, together with the FCD Research team conduct veterinary checks on young macaws to assess their condition in the wild.

Ancient World Week
The 3rd annual Ancient World Week is coming! Are you curious about archaeology especially in Northern Belize? This event is for you!! Archaeologists from the Institute of Archaeology NICH and Northwestern University of the U.S. will be presenting with a focus on Northern Belize. If you are an educator, tour guide, student or interested in the Maya please call 422-007, fb message or visit the House of Culture to register for this free event.

Power outage scheduled for portion of the Corozal District on Tuesday, July 3 from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
To affect: Yo Chen, Cristo Rey, San Pedro, Louisville, San Narciso, San Victor, San Roman, Santa Clara, Concepcion, Libertad, Estrella. BEL to conduct maintenance and testing of equipment at the Corozal Substation.

"Allan D Real McCoy" Musical Concert and CD LAUNCH PARTY
"Allan D Real McCoy" in conjunction with the Corozal Town Council will be presenting a Musical Concert and CD LAUNCH PARTY of beautiful genres of english, spanish and instrumental music dedicated to the late Ray Gonzales. Come and listen to great music on Saturday, June 30th from 7:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. at the Corozal Central Park. CD's will be on sale for $5.00. Come out and support our Corozal music and culture!

Summer Strings Benefit Concert
Mary Open Doors is having their Summer Strings concert on Satrday, July 14th, at the George Price Center. Have a great time while supporting a wonderful cause. "Save the date!!! July 14th, 2018 The Summer Strings benefit concert at the George Price Center will feature talented musicians, including Czech violinist- Karolina Kukolova. The proceeds from the concert will be used to buy the property and building where Mary Open Doors currently shelters victims of domestic violence.

BELIZE FISHING REPORT: Weeks of June 18th thru June 24th, 2018
Over one hundred bonefish caught this week as anglers put on their bonefish game face and got it done. In spite of the cloudy skies and windy conditions, the guides managed to put all anglers on Bonefish. Sometimes the fish get tired of waiting for the weather to improve and decide to eat regardless of conditions. Great week to be a Bone fisherman!

Water Outage along Philip Goldson Highway July 3
Belize Water Services informs customers along a portion of the Philip Goldson Highway that there will be an interruption and low water pressure in the water supply Tuesday, July 3, 2018, starting at 11:00am. The area to be affected by the water interruption is from 6 Miles on the Philip Goldson Highway to San Cas Plaza. The areas to be affected by low water pressure are West Landivar, Buttonwood Bay, Mayflower Garden, and Bella Vista.

2018 Taste of Belize
Indulge in succulent Belizean cuisines at the “2018 Taste of Belize” on July 21, 2018, at the Princess Hotel & Casino! As a diverse country, Belize offers a wealth of foodie-appeal, from delectable ancient Maya flavours to the cultural spices of the Garifuna and Mestizos! This signature Belize Tourism Board (BTB) event is the ultimate venue, featuring different culinary competitions, such as the Belize Master Chef and junior Cook. Other Competitions include Bartender of the Year, Pastry Chef of the year. The BTB is excited to celebrate the creativeness of Belize’s food industry and we invite you to savor the flavors of Belize during this event!

Paradise Theater playing this weekend
Blockers, A Quiet Place, Life of the Party, Isle of Dogs

Channel 7

Supreme Court “Brakes” Belmopan Convention
A month ago, there was a public eruption of discontent in the PUP, after 2 prominent candidates, Jason Patrick Andrews and Arthur Saldivar, were disqualified from running in this Sunday's Belmopan convention. Andrews, the former PUP candidate in the capital, said that he would grudgingly live with the decision. Arthur Saldivar wasn't so accommodating, and he said in a Facebook Town Hall meeting that he was going to sue the PUP, to try and reverse the decision from its vetting committee. He proved that this was no idle threat when his attorney, Christophe Rodriguez, filed his claim a few weeks ago. It has landed on the desk of Justice Shona Griffith, who scheduled an injunction hearing today. They want the Judge to stop the PUP from holding its convention, while the court decides whether Saldivar's disqualification was justified.

Looking For Answers In Wild OW Shooting
On last night's news we told you about the mass shooting in Orange Walk that sent Nazario Herrera, Diana Ack, Victor Ku and Monico Gomez to the hospital. The group of friends were hanging out in Herrera's yard when a gunman entered the premises, guns blazing. All the victims are now reported in stable condition. Here's what the police know so far... ACP Joseph Myvette - HNCIB "Orange Walk police responded to the northern regional hospital where 4 persons were observed with gunshot injuries, namely Nazario Herrera, Diana Ack, Monico Gomez and Victor Ku. Mr. Herrera received injuries to his buttocks, whilst Diana Ack received a gunshot injury to her chest and Monico also received a gunshot injury to her chest..."

Bogus Bitcoin Connection For Campos Kidnappers?
Omero Campos, a San Narciso businessman, has been missing since Father's Day. Days after he went missing his family was contacted by his apparent kidnappers who called from a Mexican number, and allegedly demanded $1 million for his return. About a week later, the family was contacted again but this time spoke to Campos directly; assuring them that he was still alive. And after another week of no contact, Campos' alleged abductors allegedly sent another message - this time, though, supposedly through the media. In an email sent to Breaking Belize News, the kidnappers supposedly changed their ransom from a million in cash to cryptocurrency and now want 20 bitcoins. For those that don't know, Bitcoin is an online currency currently worth about $12,000 US dollars per unit - so that works out to about half a million Belize dollars. Police told us more about the latest developments.

After 2.5 Months Choice Bank Allows Withdrawals
Tonight, depositors at Choice Bank can breathe a little easier - because after more than two months where their money was on lockdown, - the bank today announced that it is emerging from its "constrained liquidity" - and the good news is that depositors should be able to get back their money by the end of the year. A release says that as of Monday, all depositors will be able to withdraw up to $25,000 US dollars from their accounts. And then, later in July, they will be able to withdraw up to $75,000 US dollars. By the end of August, that will go up to $100,000 US. The release adds, quote, "by the end of the year, all those depositors are projected to have full access to 100% of their funds should they wish to close their accounts."

FCD Found Farmers From Guate, 8 Years An Encroacher
The Friends for Conservation and Development have captured 2 more Guatemalans encroaching on Belizean territory inside the Chiquibul National Park. Yesterday, a team of FCD Park Rangers and BDF soldiers were on patrol in the Cebada area, in southern Chiquibul. They encountered 2 Guatemalan farmers 2.7 kilometers inside the national park. 42 year-old Benigno Oroman Perez, and 17 year-old Elder Danilo Oroman Perez, who both live in Las Brisas de Chiquibul, in Peten, Guatemala acknowledged that they were trespassing on Belizean territory. They told the Belizean lawmen that they have been farming in this area for the past 8 years. They were then escorted to the San Ignacio Police Station, where they await charges of illegal entry and illegal cultivation.

Israel Defends Its Position
The dramatic news this week came from Belmopan, where the "Artists for Peace and Common Sense" gathered an eclectic group to protest against Israeli training for the Belize police department. They say that the Israeli's are exporters of brutality and oppression - while the Minister of State for National Security Elodio Aragon said the training has nothing to do with that. But, what do the Israeli's themselves say? Today we tracked down the Deputy Chief of Mission from Mexico - Alon Lavi - who came to open the two week training on Community and the Police. He said it's all a big misunderstanding:

The Forward Base Is Opened
The Hunting Caye Forward Operating Base has been in the plans since 2014. As has been widely publicized, the construction of the base had to come to a halt because the public was outraged that a Guatemalan company was contracted by the US government to build it. Well, when that had to be scrapped for obvious reasons, the Government of Belize had to foot the bill and finish the construction of the base itself. So, finally, after all those setbacks, the base has been completed. It was officially opened yesterday and here's more from the ceremony. Hon. John Saldivar, Minister of National Security: "It is indeed a great pleasure to finally be able to welcome you to this very special occasion after a long wait and a list of unwanted delays, we are finally here to have the opening of this strategic forward operating base."

Sugar, Yield Was Up, Money Was Down
The 2017/2018 cane season closed yesterday, and millers, BSI/ASR, are reporting that just over 1.274 million metric tons of sugar cane was milled during this crop. That's approximately 16,000 metric tons less than last year's total of 1.29 million metric tons. Out of this 1.274 million metric tons of sugar cane milled, 142 thousand tons of sugar was produced, which is the same as last year, but from less cane. But, despite the local sugar industry performing with high efficiency, the shifts in the global world market have resulted in a significant fall in the prices of sugar. This will result in lower export earnings.

Another Missing Man On San Pedro
If you're on social media, there's a chance that you've seen a photo of Clarence Lorenzo Brown Jr. The San Pedro resident has been missing since the 13th, which is almost three weeks now. Here's what police said about their leads so far... ASP Alejandro Cowo - OC, CIB Belize City: "We have a report of a missing person. I know that this have been circling in the social media but until the 21st, the mother made an official report to San Pedro police. She is mentioning that her son is missing from the 13th June. He is Clarance Lorenzo Brown, 25 year old tour guide of DFC area San Pedro. The last time they saw him alive or that he was seen alive was in the immediate area of the Coka Cola place in San Pedro. Information up to now is they have not receive any information as to where any possibility that he can be. He has not answer his phone and nobody has seen him since then."

Man Charges For Aggravated Burglary
Last week Friday, two men stormed into Bibiana Cus's home in St Matthew's village - demanding the keys for her husband's pickup truck. They stole that vehicle as well as jewelry and other items. The pickup was intercepted in Hattieville - and today police told us that they have charged a suspect - who is familiar to the family: ACP Joseph Myvette - HNCIB: "In relation to the aggravated burglary at Bibiana Cus' residence in St. Mathews Village which has occurred on Friday 22 June, police have since arrested and charged Valerio Aragon, 24 years old tour guide for the crime of aggravated burglary, one count of aggravated assault and one breach of protection order."

Robbers In Uniform Suggest Organized Crime
We've reported on several robberies over the past few weeks, and in that time police increased patrols throughout the city in an effort to protect businesses. But the police can only do so much and it's impossible to prevent every attempted robbery. Today the head of the Crime Investigation Branch, Assistant Superintendent Alejandro Cowo advised business owners to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity... ASP Alejandro Cowo - OC, CIB Belize City: "I would like to take this opportunity to encourage and advise the business owners, yes the police has a responsibility to patrol the entire city and the country, but it is also their responsibility to make sure that their business is safe, to be alert, observant..."

The Cpl Matute Situation
Police also spoke about Corporal Luis Matute - who shot a machete welding man in Camalote. Truman Parham was shot twice and is listed in a stable condition and police guard. But what about possible charges for the Corporal?

Teen Shot In South
A teenager was shot on Wednesday night in Bella Vista Village, Toledo District. 19 year old Valentino Ack was approached by three men - and one of them fired at him from a shotgun, hitting the young man in the legs and arms. Police say he knows tow of the three suspects, and so do they:.. ACP Joseph Myvette - HNCIB: "Shortly after 9pm on Tuesday, Independence police responded to an information where one Valerio Bak, 19 year old labourer of Bella Vista Village was seen with several gunshot injuries, one to his right leg; one to his left arm and one to his left foot. Initial investigation revealed that the victim was walking alone in the village when he heard several shots and realized that he was shot. Police are looking for 3 suspects in relation to this incident. Mr. Bak has since been release from the southern regional hospital"

City Hall Flip Flopping On Relocation of Tour Operators?
The Fort George Tourism Zone is always congested on cruise ship days. On a typical cruise ship day you'll be met with dozens of buses, horses pulling carriages and hordes of tour operators in vans and taxis. It affects the guest experience, and, for years now, the BTB has been trying to solve a congestion problem - against a wave of protest from the small operators. But, the effort continues, and now the BTB has to the new city council on board to resurrect the idea of moving the bus landing area to the Marion Jones Sports Complex parking lot. But before they do that, they are holding a public consultation to make sure that the Marion Jones is the right fit for tour operators and the residents in the area. That consultation is happening right now, but before it started we spoke to a representative from BTB and the Fort George Tourism Management Committee about the new plan...

Concerns Mount For Missing Girl in Belmopan
A Belmopan mother is reporting that her 15 year old daughter has been missing since Monday. Karen O'Brien reported that Alyka Coye hasn't been seen by her family in almost 100 hours - she was last seen on Monday at around lunch. If you do know her whereabouts, please call police or 615 7061.

After 4 Years, Mirab Will Soon Open
It's one of the most anticipated commercial debuts in memory - and today Mirab announced that it will open its new, three story, hundred thousand square foot department store in late summer. It may be the largest store in Belize and will include Belize's first Ashley Furniture Home Store on the 3rd floor. The new building has been a four year project, with a price tag projected to be well over ten million dollars. It will include escalators and elevators. No specific opening date has been announced.

Jamal Took His Story to NatGeo
Last night we told you about the adventures of Jamal and Tarzan as they took in an injured baby manatee. Well, linking up with an American social media sensation such as Tarzan isn't the only way Jamal Galvez is spreading awareness about manatees. He is now a NatGeo fellow and he plans to use that platform to highlight the issues manatees face in Belize. Yesterday he told us about the importance of this prestigious award. Galvez spent 1 week in Washington D.C participating in trainings and public discussions. He got $25,000 US dollars from the fellowship. Galvez says he will use that money to fund surveys, patrols to ensure that boats are complying with the regulations along with many other manatee protection initiatives.

Madison, The Wave Of The Future
Madison Edwards: She is the 12 year old environmental activist who has been making waves with her powerful and committed advocacy for the protection of the Belize Barrier Reef. She recently got the Oceana Ocean hero award. Well, Edwards continues to make a name for herself. Yesterday, she gave a short presentation to the World Heritage Committee in Bahrain. As we told you, it is at this committee meeting that it was announced that the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System has officially been removed from the UNESCO World Heritage Center List of World Heritage Sites in Danger. Now here is an excerpt of Edwards' meaningful speech.

Brandon Battles With Federation To Ride Road Championship
Two months ago we told you how elite cyclist Brandon Cattouse had tested Positive for a banned substance. At the time we were told he had been placed on a provisional indefinite suspension by the National Anti Doping Association until his hearing is held. But, reports to 7News this evening are that Cattouse has served an injunction on the Cycling Federation at a technical meeting just a few minutes ago - forcing them to allow him to ride in the National Road Championship on Sunday. It seems he is challenging his suspension in the courts - and is now using the injunction - since he was banned from last week's time trial championship.

No More Frittaz!
If you're a fan of conch fritters, or ceviche, you'd better get your full of it between now and Saturday night. That's because conch season is closing on Sunday July first, and will stay closed until September 30, 2018. Any person or business found in possession of conch during the closed season will be charged and prosecuted. The Fisheries Department advises the public to report any illegal fishing activity by calling telephone numbers: 224-4552 or 223-2623.

Channel 5

P.U.P. Postpones Belmopan Convention as Arthur Saldivar Seeks Injunction
Attorney Arthur Saldivar is turning against his own party, which he wants to represent. This is all because he is not allowed to run for P.U.P. standard bearer in the [...]

Saldivar Explains Why He Wants to Contest P.U.P. Belmopan Convention
The three candidates who have been accepted to contest the convention are Oscar Mira, Wiezsman Pat and Michelle Rodriguez. After this morning’s court session, Saldivar told supporters who had gathered at [...]

Belizean Shot & Killed in the U.S., Before Husband Turns Gun on Himself
A murder-suicide claimed the lives of a Belizean woman and her American husband. Thirty-five-year-old Rushan Tucker was shot and killed by her husband Malcolm Tucker on Sunday morning in their [...]

Ring of Thieves Responsible for Robberies in the City, Elsewhere
Over the past month and a half, there have been a string of robberies within the city and elsewhere across the country and police are inching closer to the perpetrators. [...]

Kidnappers Now Want Bitcoins for Safe Return of Abducted San Narciso Businessman
Despite an ongoing hunt, San Narciso businessman Omero Campos remains missing. Campos was abducted on June sixteenth when he headed to his farm in the nearby village San Victor, well [...]

Police Brief on Trial Farm Shooting in which 4 Persons were Injured
Within twenty-four hours, there were three shootings in the north, west and south of the country that have left six persons hospitalized. On Tuesday, shortly after eight p.m., Orange Walk [...]

‘Old Beef’ Cause of Shooting in Bella Vista Village
Also on Tuesday night, there was a shooting shortly after nine p.m. in Bella Vista Village on the Southern Highway. Nineteen-year-old Valerio Bak was shot multiple times to the body [...]

Russell Hyde Junior Charged for Shooting Farmhand Jose Gonzalez
Russell Hyde Junior has been charged for the aggravated assault and wounding of Jose Gonzalez, who was shot on Sunday in Camalote Village. Gonzalez was shot to the chest as [...]

Internal & Criminal Investigations Continue Following Camalote Shooting
The spate of shooting started on Monday night in Camalote Village, in the Cayo District when Truman Parham was shot to the abdomen and arm by off-duty Police Corporal Luis [...]

A Forward Operating Base is Inaugurated at Hunting Caye
A forward operating base was launched on Wednesday at Hunting Caye in southern Belize. The base was long in coming; work started in 2014, but was abruptly halted after it [...]

FinSec Joseph Waight Says G.O.B. Will Not Reduce Fuel Tax
The price of fuel has been fluctuating in the last few weeks with the latest adjustment to diesel, a decreased of twenty-two cents and is now retailing for ten dollars [...]

Government to Meet with Chambers over Fuel Tax Regime
G.O.B. has refused to reduce fuel tax. Entities such the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry have called on the government to re-strategize and review its fuel tax regime. Last [...]

$400 Million Owed for Petrocaribe
Petrocaribe is rolling no more. Belize is among eight countries affected by Venezuela’s PDVSA which has said that it is suspending its petroleum deliveries. Reports emerging from Venezuela suggest that [...]

New Developments on Embattled Choice Bank Limited
There are new developments in respect of the embattled Choice Bank Limited. In a first statement issued today, the financial institution informed its depositors that as of July second, they [...]

FCD Rangers Bust Guatemalans in Cebada
Two Guatemalan farmers from Peten were detained inside the Chiquibul National Park on Wednesday. Friends for Conservation and Development and Belize Defense Force personnel were on a patrol to document [...]

Man Charged for Saint Matthew’s Home Invasion
On Monday we reported a home invasion in Saint Matthew’s Village. Bibiana Kus and her family were accosted by a pair of armed men, who stormed her property sometime after [...]

Government Signs Off to Guarantee a Loan from Taiwan for B.T.L.
Belize Telemedia Limited has spent forty million Belize dollars rolling out its National Broadband Plan. The project commenced in San Pedro in July 2017 and now the company wants to [...]

Will Independent Tour Operators be Relocated to the Marion Jones?
A public consultation involving stakeholders within the Fort George Tourism Zone is underway at the Marion Jones Sporting Complex, the proposed staging ground for the relocation of tour buses in [...]

NSC Director Says Parking of Buses a Business Opportunity
According to Ian Jones, the National Sports Council is simply taking advantage of a business opportunity which it can parlay into the improvement of existing programs at the department. [...]

Conch Season Coming to a Close
The conch season is closing from July first through to September thirtieth. During this period, anyone found in possession of the conch will be fined. The Belize Fisheries Department says [...]

Sugar Cane Crop Season Officially Closed
Up north, the sugar cane crop at A.S.R./B.S.I. is officially closed. In a release issued today, the millers say that the final sugar cane fields have been cut and the [...]

Healthy Living: National Testing Day
Do you know your HIV status? The Ministry of Health and the National AIDS Commission have been working to ensure that you do. For some time now, there have been [...]

LOVE FM

Still no leads on whereabouts of Kidnapped Omero Campos
The search for businessman Omero Campos is ongoing, but police say they are unable to say whether he is still alive. Campos was last seen on Sunday June 17 when he left his house to go to his farm. His family received a call hours after they realized he was missing, but police say that …

Did a dispute lead Sabino Domiguez to his death?
Earlier this week Police charged two persons, 40-year-old Arnulfo Nunez and 39-year-old Hilcia Cano Arevalo, for the murder of Sabino Santos Dominguez. Dominguez’s body was found on the side of a road in Franks Eddy Village early last Sunday morning. He had sustained several chop wounds to the head and face. ACP Joseph Myvett says …

Police joins search for Clarence Brown
Police have also launched a search for 25-year-old Clarence Lorenzo Brown Junior who has been missing since June 13. He was last seen at around one o’clock in the afternoon driving a red motorcycle in San Pedro Ambergris Caye. The family has not seen him since and fear his disappearance may be linked to him …

Police are still looking for gunman who shot and injured four persons in Orange Walk
Police continue to work on establishing a motive for the shooting of four persons in Trial Farm Village in the Orange Walk District on Tuesday night.35-year-old Nazario Herrera was sitting in front of his house along with his common-law-wife, 26-year-old Diana Ack, 19-year-old Victor Ku and 20-year-old Monico Gomez when someone entered the yard and …

US Sanctions affect Belize’s ties with Venezuela
Under the PetroCaribe program, Belize received fuel from Venezuela through a special arrangement. The program was also able to generate monies for the Government of Belize. However, the US sanctions against Venezuela has impacted the program. Financial Secretary, Joseph Waight explains. Joseph Waight – Financial Secretary: the problem with Petrocaribe is that there is although there …

Waight: no plans in place to lower fuel prices
Motorists continue to lament the high price of fuel in Belize. A couple organizations have called on the Prime Minister to revisit the tax structure to provide some sort of ease; however, the Prime Minister has insisted that would have a negative impact on Belize’s economy. Today, the media asked Financial Secretary Joseph Waight about …

Sugar payment estimates pending
With the expected drop in sugar production, cane payments will be affected. However, the extent to which payments will be impacted is yet to be seen. There are other significant factors to consider, particularly the continued drop in market prices. Cane Farmers Relations Officer at BSI Olivia Avilez explains further. Cane Farmers Relations Officer at …

Robberies spike; police believe a small circle is largely responsible
Police say that a recent escalation in robberies within and outside Belize City is being conducted, for the most part, by th…

Sugar crop closes; industry sees improvements on the fields and at the mill
As we reported, yesterday the 2017/2018 sugar cane crop has come to a close. According to BSI/ASR, the total cane delivered…

BTL signs loan agreement to expand its services
Belize Telecommunications Limited is looking to expand its coverage and services. To that end, the company signed a loan agr…

Arthur Saldivar takes the PUP to court
Over the last few weeks, the People’s United Party has been holding its conventions in preparation for the next general elec…

The Reporter

Breaking Belize News

Teen gunned down on Lovely Lane in Belize City
BBN has confirmed that a teen identified only as Warren Rudon was gunned down minutes ago […]

Teenage female reported missing in Belmopan
A teenage female student residing in Belmopan is reported missing by her parents. Seventeen year old […]

US Vice President visits Guatemala to discuss immigration
Today, Vice President of the United States of America, Mike Pence arrived in Guatemala. Pence […]

Conch season officially closes
The Fisheries Department today issued a reminder to all fishermen and the public that the Conch […]

Atlantic Bank San Ignacio Branch invites you to its ‘Back to School Loan Fair’
Parents are already gearing up for the new school year 2018/2019 and Atlantic Bank San […]

Valentino Ack knows who shot him says police
We had previously reported that Valentino Ack, 19, was shot multiple times while walking in the Bella Vista […]

Belizean woman killed by husband in the US, husband then kills himself
Belizean national, Rushan Tucker, 35, has been living in the United States for over a […]

Son of slain Russel Hyde charged in connection with shooting
Russel Hyde Jr. also known as “Willow” has been charged with aggravated assault and wounding […]

Police say email used by Omero Campos’ kidnappers traced to Switzerland
It has been twelve days since San Narciso businessman, Omero Campos, has been reported kidnapped. […]

Moneygram robber may be involved in a string of other robberies
Jiovannie Augustine, 22, has been charged in connection with the robbery of the Moneygram office in […]

International Sources

How the Belize Barrier Reef Beat the Endangered List
An oil drilling moratorium, development restrictions and fishing reform has helped the 200-mile-reef come off Unesco’s endangered world heritage sites list. This week Unesco, the United Nation’s scientific and cultural agency, removed the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, part of the 600-mile long MesoAmerican Reef System, the world’s second largest, from its list of endangered world heritage sites. And, surprisingly, it’s not because the reef is so degraded or damaged that it can’t be saved. The BBC reports that instead, after a decade of “visionary” work to protect the reef, Unesco believes it’s safe for the time being. According to a press release, the roughly 200-mile-long reef was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1996, but in 2009, due to a spate of threats, it was added to the agency’s endangered list. In particular, the possibility of offshore oil drilling near the reef, the rapid destruction of mangrove forests and coastal development all threatened to degrade the reef system, which in addition to being part of the largest reef in the northern hemisphere, is also home to threatened species including sea turtles, manatees and crocodiles. Tryggvi Adalbjornsson at The New York Times reports that the reef was struck from the list because, at least for now, all of those threats have abated. “In the last two years, especially in the last year, the government of Belize really has made a transformational shift,” says Fanny Douvere, coordinator of Unesco’s marine program.

Cajuns' Justin Miller takes Belize opportunity to find himself
What was supposed to be a basketball trip to the Far East for Ragin’ Cajuns men’s basketball forward Justin Miller turned into a trip of self-reflection. Heading into his junior season with UL, Miller was given the opportunity to spend 10 days in Belize, playing basketball and helping others for Campbellsville, Kentucky-based Sports Reach USA. The trip, from May 16-26, saw Miller and Sports Reach go unbeaten in six games against teams from the Belize National Elite League, along with local all-star teams from across the country. But that wasn't the most important thing Miller took away from the trip.

This Caribbean Nation Gets The Lowest Rank From US On Sex Trafficking Fight
As the global spotlight continues to be put on the issue of sex trafficking, one Caribbean country has again received the lowest rank of any other regional countries. The U.S. government on Thursday again slapped the ‘Tier 3 level label on the Central American CARICOM nation of Belize as the U.S. State Department on Thursday issued its 2018 annual Human Trafficking in Persons report under the theme: “Local Solutions to a Global Problem: Supporting Communities in the Fight Against Human Trafficking.” In the report, the US said the Government of Belize does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking and is not making significant efforts to do so therefore it remained on Tier 3. It also claimed that allegations of trafficking-related complicity by government officials remains a problem. The US report said Belize is a source, transit, and destination country for men, women, and children subjected to sex trafficking and forced labor. It cited the UN Special Rapporteur on Trafficking in Persons which reported that family members facilitate the sex trafficking of Belizean women and girls.

Videos

Skin Disease Vitiligo, 32min.

University of the West Indies Open Campus Belize - Updates, 35min.

Growing the Future Projects - Summer Camp, 22min.

Research on the challenges facing male Domestic Violence victims in Barbados and Jamaica, 39min.

National Aids Commission - Evaluation of Belize’s response to HIV/AIDS, 35min.

The Belize Police Department - Youth Mentorship Program and SPRITE, 27min.

Belizeans making Belize proud at Taste of Caribbean cooking competition, min.

How to Mail Items Around Belize Using Air Cargo, 2.5min. In this brief video, I share with you how to easily and inexpensively mail letters, parcels, and other items around Belize using Tropic Air Cargo.

Belize : Short film Caye Caulker Caribbean Island, 3min.

Rainforest Seafood Belize Lobster, 2min. Rainforest Seafoods - the only Belizean lobster plant approved to sell to Europe. It employs 60 Belizeans and hundreds of fishers.

Beekeeper in Belize, Corozal, 16min.

Studying Sharks in Belize, 2.5min. SJC Long Island junior Alex Pushnick served an internship studying sharks and stingrays in Belize.

I Got the Voice, 2hr. I Got The Voice Season 3!! Karaoke Competition!

June 28, 2018

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

NEMO holds first Official EOC Meeting of the 2018 Hurricane Season
To increase preparedness during the 2018 Atlantic Hurricane Season, the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) held a meeting with committees under the San Pedro’s Emergency Operation Center (EOC) at the Belize Rural South NEMO Branch office on Friday, June 22nd. The meeting aimed to review the EOCs’ state of readiness and fine-tune their plan of action in the event of a storm or extreme rain. After a prayer by Pastor Clive Welsh, NEMO Coordinator for Belize Rural South, Vanessa Parham welcomed those in attendance. “As we head into the hurricane season, it’s not only NEMO’s job to preserve life and property, but the entire community as a team. For this hurricane season I want to ask each and every one of you to stay alert, safe and prepare for an emergency,” she said.

RET International trains JP’s in San Pedro
Relief and Resilience Through Education in Transition (RET) International trained Justices of the Peace (JP’s) on social issues on Sunday, June 24th. The training was aimed to teach JPs to respond in a timely, transparent, and efficient way to gender-based violence, human trafficking, child abuse and other issues of crime and violence in our society. The workshop began at 12:30PM at the San Pedro Town Council conference room, with Legislation and Policy Officer Doctor Abigail McKay welcoming everyone in attendance. RET International National Project Director Malenie Banes shared a few words about her organization. “RET International is an organization that is committed to working in emergencies and fragile environments around the world to ensure the protection and resilience of vulnerable young people through education,” said Banes.

Ambergris Today

12-Year-Old Madison Edwards Impresses At World Heritage Committee Meeting In Bahrain
She was the only 12-year-old at the 42nd Session of the World Heritage Committee meeting in Manama, Bahrain. She was there to represent Belize and her generation and was given the opportunity to open the day’s session on Wednesday, June 27, 2018, where she delivered a strong and positive message to the UNESCO panel and participating members. Just hours earlier, she was celebrating the removal of the Belize Barrier Reef System from the List of World Heritage Sites In Danger. She now had the opportunity to say something and those in attendance paid close attention to her words; they were impressed and motivated. “I stand before you not only as a symbol of the future, but as part of a proud nation entrusted with safeguarding the Belize Barrier Reef System,” stated Madison in her address. “The people of my country have shown great passion in defending our livelihood against threats to our World Heritage site.”

Misc Belizean Sources

a Belize Flood Prevention Seminar
The Governments of Taiwan and Belize hosted a Belize Flood Prevention Seminar today, June 27th, in Belize City. The seminar had distinguished experts from Taiwan and Belize who shared their experiences and technologies in the following topics (1) Disaster Research and Prevention Strategy, (2) Flooding disaster simulation and early warning technology in urban areas, (3) Disaster Prevention in Using Geographic Information Systems(GIS). Like many other low-lying coastal nations, Belize is vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Its geographical location leaves the country exposed to the risk of increasing frequency and intensity of tropical storms and extreme rainfall and causes the loss of lives and property. In order to minimize the impact caused by extreme weather, the Governments of Taiwan and Belize are working on a flood prevention project to develop an improved emergency management system with the application of advanced hazard mitigation technologies to reduce the negative consequences of disasters.

Paint N Splash
See you this week at from 2-4pm Thursday. This week it’s “All About That Bass”!

Efforts continue FOR THE LOVE OF SAN PEDRO
Members and those interested in joining the SP BTIA are invited to attend our monthly meeting on Thursday, June 28th at 7PM at El Divino Restaurant. We will be discussing follow-up from our FOR THE LOVE OF SAN PEDRO campaign along with other important tourism issues we are engaged in.

MIF & BELTRAIDE are providing FREE training in July in Corozal
We encourage Entrepreneurs & Small Business Owners in Corozal to take part. Please note there is LIMITED AVAILABILITY. To REGISTER please call BELTRAIDE's Headquarters at 822-3737 or send and email to wendy@belizeinvest.org.bz Venues: ITVET CAMPUS for Corozal Town residents and Santa Clara Village Primary School for Corozal Rural residents. Each day has 2 trainings, the first is in the morning from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon, and the second session is in the afternoon from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. For example, Business Planning is from 9 to 12 and Internal Controls is from 1 to 5. Introduction to Financial Statements, which is on the 17th of July, is from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Fundraiser for Corozal's Shooting Stars Dance Academy!!
You are invited this Saturday night June 30th to enjoy music and dance by our talented children and youths; featuring Manuel Tzul on saxophone, Courtney Gillette on keyboard, William Marin, Libertad Methodist School Dance Group, C.C.C. Dance Company, Mary Hill School Dancing Angels and of course the Shooting Stars! Please support our young performing artists who are involved in positive, healthy activities.

Sarteneja Tour Association vacancy
For an Administrative Assistant.

Power outage scheduled for portion of the Corozal District on Tuesday, July 3 from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
To affect Yo Chen, Cristo Rey, San Pedro, Louisville, San Narciso, San Victor, San Roman, Santa Clara, Concepcion, Libertad and Estrella. BEL to conduct maintenance and testing of equipment at the Corozal Substation.

Low water pressure in Placencia today
Belize Water Services informs customers in Placencia and surrounding areas that there will be low water pressure in the water supply today, Thursday, June 28, 2018 starting at 1:00pm. The areas to be affected are Placencia and Seine Bight. This interruption is the result of emergency repairs at the Placencia Resevior. Due to the repairs, customers may experience discoloration when water is restored. Residents of these or nearby areas are advised that water supply should return to normal by 5:00pm. If they experience water supply problems after that time, they should immediately call BWS’ hotline at 0-800-CALL-BWS (0-800-225-5297) to report it.

The Reporter

Taiwan and Belize discuss flood mitigation projects for Cayo district
The governments of Belize and the Republic of China (Taiwan) are at this hour discussing flood mitigation projects for the Cayo district. The projects will involve introducing technology, mechanisms, disaster risk management, and best practices to minimize and to avoid hazardous flooding in the Cayo […]

Channel 7

Mass Shooting In Trial Farm, Was It Over Turf?
Tonight, a husband, his wife, and their 2 young adult friends are hospitalized at the Northern Regional Hospital after they were injured in a crazy shooting at their home in Trial Farm, a village just outside of Orange Walk Town. It happened at around 7:00 last night, at the home of 25 year-old Nazario Herrera, when a gunman stepped in, guns blazing. The shooter sprayed the area with bullets, and several members of the group end up getting seriously injured. It’s the kind of mass shooting - which we see only rarely in the city - and Orange Walk hasn’t known this kind of thing since Rambotown days of the 80’s. Today, our news team traveled to Trial Farm looking for answers. Daniel Ortiz reports: 25 year-old Nazario Herrera; his common-law wife, 26 year-old Diana Ack; and their two friends, 19 year-old Victor Ku; and 20 year-old Monico Gomez, were injured in a mass shooting incident which happened at his home in Trial Farm Village.

Post Mortem Confirms Suicide For Man Who Died In Custody
On Monday, we told you about Lindberg Anthony, the 55 year-old Crooked Tree Villager who died while in police custody over the weekend. The cops say he committed suicide while he was detained in the Village Police sub-station, but his family refused to accept that, demanding a full investigation. Well, police have released the results of the post-mortem examination, which was conducted yesterday. Dr. Mario Estradabran has certified that Anthony died from asphyxiation due hanging, and that it was suicide. Police say that they detained him on Saturday night, because he was allegedly behaving drunk and disorderly. He was placed in the holding cell of the Crooked Tree Station, and less than 2 hours later, he was found hanging from a cloth around the neck.

Alleged Moneygram Robber Charged
On Monday we told you about the robbery at the Moneygram office in Ramon's Plaza, Ladyville. 26-year-old desk clerk, Nekeisha Martinez was in the office on when a masked man wearing a security officer's uniform walked in, pointed a gun and her and demanded money. Martinez handed over about $4,000 dollars in cash to the gunman, who stuffed it into a green duffel bag and fled. Police have since tracked down and arrested the alleged robber, who has been identified as 22-year-old San Hill resident, Jiovanni Augustine. Augustine was charged with robbery today when he appeared in court before Senior Magistrate Aretha Ford. He pled not guilty to the charge, but was denied bail and was remanded into custody until Thursday.

Unemployment Figures Are Up
The unemployment figure for April 2018 were released today - and they show that unemployment is up slightly when compared to April of 2017. It has increased from 9% to 9.4. That means over 16 thousand Belizeans are unemployed - 1,300 more than a year ago. As Wendy Benavides from the SIB explained, this is due to the fact that there are more jobs available and more people seeking those jobs: Wendy Benavides - Statistician II: "The rise in this area was as a result of more persons joining the labor force and jobs being created. Over 5,800 more jobs this year, this was especially seen in the Cayo and Toledo Districts The district with the lowest level of unemployment was Corozal at 5.6% experiencing increases in the employment in the service sector."

GDP Shows Some Growth, Thanks to Tourism
And while unemployment inched up - the Gross Domestic Product showed encouraging growth in the first quarter of 2018. It’s only 1.8%, but for the past two years, first quarter GDP growth has been less than 1%. SIB Statistician Angelita Campbell explained that the tertiary or service sector, mainly tourism, fuelled economic growth:.. Angelita Campell - Statistician II: "Belize produced goods and services totaling 756.9 million dollars indicating an increase of 13.1 million or 1.8 percent when compared to the same period of last year. The primary industry which accounts for almost one-tenth of the country's economic activity decreased by 10.9 million dollars or 11.9 percent. Within this sector we have agricultural hunting and forestry going down by 8.2 percent or 6.7 million dollars. We see the sugar cane production going down by 4.6 percent as a result of factory down time while we have citrus and banana going down by 19.3 percent and 19.5 percent respectively. Fishing also went down by 44.3 percent or 4.2 million and this is seen in 290 thousand less pound of shrimp being exported, 90 thousand less in conch being exported and 100 thousand less in pounds of whole fish being exported."

Exports Down Due to Primary Sector Shortfalls
So, basically, the productive sector had major downturns - which also created a decline in exports. Tiffany Vasquez outlined where the biggest export losses were concentrated:… Tiffany Vasquez - Statistician II: "For the period January to May 2018 Belize's total domestic exports were valued at 190.6 million dollars, this was a decrease of 19.8 percent or almost 47 million. This overall decline was the outcome of diminished earnings from most of Belize's major exports. Significant losses in export earnings from sugar was the primary cause of this down turn as the loss of preferential rates for Belize's sugar and the European market heavily impacted that commodity.”

Inflation Stable, Better Than Region
And while exports were down, inflation was marginal - especially when compared to other countries in the region: Jacqueline Sabal - Statistician II: "The inflation rate for the month of May 2018 stood at 0.3 percent, meaning that on average prices were 0.3 percent higher than they were in May 2017. Across all municipalities Orange Walk Town reported the highest positive increase at 1.8 percent while Dangriga reported the biggest decrease at negative 2.3 percent. Orange Walk Town’s increase was mainly attributed to higher fuel and food costs while Dangriga's negative rate was due to lower rent cost. When we look at Belize compared to some of the other countries in the region, our inflation rate is 0.3 percent, Guatemala is at 4 percent, Honduras 3.9 percent, Nicaragua 5.3, Costa Rica is at 2, Jamaica at 3.1 and Dominican Republic at 4.5." The was the Statistical Institute’s quarterly press conference and it was held at the Central Bank Conference Room.

Belize’s Best Chefs Bullish In Miami
6 of Belize’s best chef’s brought home the silver medal from the Taste of the Caribbean competition in Miami. The team got silver for the Caribbean National Team of the Year category. It was their first time participating and it was highly competitive. But they did very well going up against 16 countries with some tough senior teams. We welcomed them back to Belize at the airport and they told us how they stood out among their competitors. Rob Pronk - Team Captain: "We went to Miami with team Belize, culinary team Belize. It was a very intense competition. It is the culinary Olympics of the Caribbean. 5 days of competing basically, we did extremely well, very much better than we expected. We are happy, we are proud. We brought back the medals."

Containing Floods With Science, Not Supposition
Flash Flooding is common in Central America - but, historically, it has not been so in Belize - due to better land use practices. But, that’s changing. With agricultural expansion and accompanying deforestation along with climate change - flash floods are a real threat, and disaster managers now have to prepare contingencies. Today, they got some help in approaching the problem with the best science. Taiwanese experts are here to show disaster managers how to use Global Information System technology to develop a flood prevention project and an improved emergency management system - based on science, not supposition. Here’s more from the opening ceremony of the Belize Flood Prevention Seminar: Hon. Hugo Patt - Minister of Natural Resources: "Belize suffers from the threat of Hurricane and extreme rainfall due to climate change. The low lying costal planes as well as densely populated areas can't deal with the most impact caused by extreme weather. Amongst the approximately 380 thousand inhabitance nationwide around 70 percent of the population live in these low lying areas and 40.5 percent live nearby coastal areas; of which 24 percent live in areas that are prone to flood disasters. When these natural disasters especially hurricanes and floods affect these vulnerable areas those at risk find save haven in inland areas, san Ignacio being one such location. Unfortunately however, these same havens are recently being threatened by flash floods that prevent access to infrastructure used during emergencies especially including the community hospital."

K-9 Cop Shot a Machete Man
A police officer shot a man in Camalote on Monday. From what we have heard it started with a family dispute - and ended with Corporal Luis Matute shooting a man who he claims was advancing on him with a machete. It happened at around 6:30, when 44 year old Truman Parham, allegedly approached Matute with a machete. Matute was surrounded by his family and fired a warning shot. But, he says Parham would not back down, so he shot him in the shoulder and body. Parham then ran off to a nearby pasture and disappeared. Parham got someone to take him to the Western Regional Hospital where he is listed in a stable condition and under police guard. Police say the confrontation stems from an incident the previous day where two men were detained, and Parham is a relative of one of them.

The Anti-Israeli Protest, A Look Back
Yesterday we told you about the climax of the protest against Israel's involvement with the Belize Police Department. We showed you how the protesters reacted angrily to Minister Elodio Aragon's explanation of the Israeli training. It all happened late in the evening in Belmopan, and today we'll give you a more in depth look into the protest and the challenges it faced. Alex Courtenay reports... Yesterday a group of artists, politicians and concerned citizens marched through the streets of Belmopan to protest the Israeli facilitated police course, “Police and Community”. The initiative, “labeled” as a comprehensive community policing program that involves several departments and sectors has met backlash from certain members of the public namely the “Artists for Peace and Common Sense”. The group cites multiple reasons for their opposition to the training; the main ones being the Israeli’s harsh and violent treatment of Palestinians as well as a conflict of interest when it comes to Belize’s foreign policy…

9 Year Old Drowns
Summer’s here, and, sadly, that often means an increased number of drownings. On Monday, a father took his 9 year old son to swim in Corozal and the boy drowned. 30-year-old Hector Kelly took his son, Matthew Andrew Gonzales, to swim at the beach in Corozal just after midday. About two hours later Matthew was found floating unconscious in the water. He was rushed to the hospital for treatment but was pronounced dead an hour later.

CCJ Says Barbados Death Penalty Unconstitutional
Back in November of 2016, the Belize Court of Appeal scrapped the automatic life sentences without parole for convicted murders. And Now the Caribbean of Justice has done away with the death penalty in Barbados. The decision came as part of an appeal of 2 unrelated death penalty cases from that island nation. The cases both challenged the murder convictions for 2 men, and they were also challenging the constitutionality of the mandatory death sentence for murder in Barbados. After hearing the appeal of two murder convictions, the Court has ruled that Barbados’s mandatory sentence of death is unconstitutional.

Tarzan, Meet Manatee
As we showed you last night, Michael Holston – The Real Tarzan is in Belize having close encounters with all the animals here. Well, today he got to cuddle a baby manatee after it was rescued from a trio of dangerous dolphins. And really that wasn’t part of the schedule for today. The plan was for Tarzan and manatee expert Jamal Galvez to meet up and talk about manatees, but Tarzan got to get up close and personal with the calf. We met Galvez and Tarzan at the Radisson pier as they brought in the injured calf from Caye Caulker. Jamal Galvez - Sea to Shore Alliance Program Coordinator: "I was on my way to Caye Caulker to meet with the Tarzan man to talk about manatees, to highlight manatees to bring some awareness, as you know he is in Belize trying to spread awareness so people know what Belize has is a treasure and to highlight the problems of the manatees as well. So on the way out to meet him I got the call that there was a baby manatee at the dock at Caye Caulker waiting for me. I was like… weird."

Belize Ballers On the Way To Cancun
Today three Belizean basketball headed to Cancun to participate in the Hoops on the Beach tournament. The teams, comprised of the best of the best in the Ahmidaya League, will be competing against other teams from around the region. We spoke to some of the players and coaches this morning about tournament... Naveed Mangla - President Ahmadiya Muslim Jama'at, Belize: "The Ahmadiya Basketball league in Belize has been established for the last four years, and this year we had expanded to three categories. U13, U17 and U21. This time around we had an opportunity where we received an invitation to a tournament in Cancun called Hoops on the Beach to bring three teams." Rodvern Lino - Commissioner, Ahmadaiya Basketball League: "We have U15 actually bringing the U15 team from PG this year, it's the first time we're taking a u15 team. We have our regular U17 team, but there are new player to the U17 program because out older players are transitioning to the U19 category that we're taking as well, so we're taking U19, U17 and U15. We would like to say that we believe that it is the best talent in our country that we're taking."

49 Youths Who Did The Right Thing
49 youths received awards for the “Du Di Rait Ting” Program today. Throughout the school year, each police formation, with the help of school counsellors and teachers, chose a student who has shown true resilience and determination. A committee then reviews all the submissions and selects the students who stand out the most. The awards ceremony was held at Old Belize. Here is more about the program and about these stellar kids. Cpl. Jason Jones - Program Coordinator, Du Di Rait Ting Program: “Today was the culmination of a yearlong exercise where we awarded monthly submissions and today was the national awards ceremony. We awarded not only the monthly submissions but also the top 10 students from across the country.”

Scotiabank Students
Scotia Bank's Belize City branch held its annual ceremony today to award primary school students with tuition grants. The program, which has been running for about 15 years, has sent just over 1000 students to school. We spoke to Scotia Bank's Senior Manager of Business Support, Hernan Riverol, as well as Chief Education Officer Carol Babb, about the event... Hernan Riverol - Senior Manager, Business Support: "Today was a special day for 87 or so children that will be continuing their primary school education by us providing them with a grant that will help them meet their school fees. We've been doing this for 15 or so years. We started back in the early 2000s and this year makes it 1000 grants that we have granted over those years. So it's a culmination of that commitment that we made some years ago and today is 1000 that do."

Channel 5

Pregnant Woman Critical & 3 Others Injured After Wild Shooting in Trial Farm
A pregnant woman is critical after a wild shooting at her home in Trial Farm Village on Tuesday night. Diana Ack was shot several times as she was with her [...]

Camalote Villager Shot by Off-duty Police Corporal
An officer-involved shooting in Camalote Village on Monday flew below the radar for over thirty-six hours, despite several inquiries to ascertain what transpired that evening. Forty-four-year-old Truman Parham was shot [...]

Autopsy Confirms: Lindberg Anthony Died by Hanging
A post mortem examination, following the death of fifty-six-year-old Lindberg Anthony inside a holding cell in Crooked Tree Village, indicates that the well-known mechanic died as a result of asphyxia [...]

Israeli Training Not About Military Self-Defense
The controversy surrounding the Israel training of officers and civilians, in both the public and private sectors, easily eclipsed a government-led initiative to bolster the capacity of the police department [...]

Israeli Training to Build Trust through Community Outreach
The idea of strengthening the substance of the department through community outreach, says Aragon, is a necessary means of fortifying those with shared interests within the society. That, according to [...]

The Cost of Living – SIB Presents Latest Report
Latest statistics show a mixed bag in the cost of living. Prices for goods and services went up slightly in May of this year when compared to the same period [...]

Unemployment Rate Goes Up
Preliminary findings from the April 2018 labour force survey carried out by S.I.B. shows that the country’s unemployment rate increased by a marginal zero point four percent, so when compared [...]

UB Launches 4-Year Bachelors Programme in Statistics
The University of Belize recently launched a four-year Bachelor of Science degree in Statistics. The degree programme consists of a modern curriculum and includes instruction in use of software to [...]

Sand Hill Resident Arraigned for MoneyGram Robbery
A construction worker from Sand Hill, Belize District, appeared today before Senior Magistrate Aretha Ford and was arraigned for robbery to which Jiovanni Augustine pleaded not guilty. Since the offense [...]

Belize Wins Silver at Taste of the Caribbean
A team of six Belizean professionals in the culinary industry competed over the past three days in the regional Taste of the Caribbean Competition held in Miami, Florida. The Belize [...]

49 Students Awarded for Doing the Right Thing
We have covered the police initiative, Du Di Rait Ting, many times in the past. But today’s ceremony was special. Forty-nine students completed the programme; eleven were honored for beating [...]

Male Manatee Calf Rescued near Long Caye
Tonight, a male manatee calf is being rehabilitated at Wild Tracks; a rehabilitation facility in Sarteneja, after it was is rescued near Long Caye. Sea to Shore Alliance Coordinator Jamal [...]

Building Resilient Communities to Weather Disasters
Hurricanes and flooding in Belize are nothing new. Compounded with a changing climate, the frequency and intensity of these natural disasters are growing. In Belize, we have had our fair [...]

Spoken Words 501 to Launch Book of Poems
On Friday, Spoken Words 501, a group of poets from across the country, will be celebrating its fifth anniversary. It is a momentous occasion being marked by the launch of [...]

Basketball Teams Head to Cancun for Hoops on the Beach Tournament
A team of thirty-six young male basketball athletes, five coaches and chaperones left Belize this morning en route to Cancun, Mexico for an international basketball tournament. The players were recruited [...]

LOVE FM

Flood prevention experts to develop improved flood management system for the Cayo District
The Belize and Taiwan governments are implementing a pilot project in the Cayo District on flood prevention, and, the aim is to develop an improved emergency management system. The project will see the use of advanced hazard mitigation technologies that will be overseen by technicians from Taiwan. Percival Cho, CEO in the Ministry of Environment, …

Sugar Crop closes
The 2017/2018 sugar crop closed today but the official numbers as to the overall performance of the industry is yet to be released. What we do know however are the latest figures that were released by BSI for week 27 which was last week. The factory performance at that time as it relates to sugar …

Police award students in the National Do Di Rait Ting Program
Students who are part of the Do Di Rait Ting program were awarded at the national awards ceremony this morning in Belize City. Corporal Jason Jones, program coordinator for the program explains the objective of the program and how students have benefited. Belize City. Corporal Jason Jones, program coordinator: Do di rait thing is community …

Minister Hugo Patt speak of first days in the lead at Ministry of Natural Resources
On Monday, Minister Hugo Patt officially became the fourth minister in under three years to take over the Ministry of Natural Resources. Prime Minister Dean Barrow had said that the reshuffle was in an effort to improve the performance in the Ministry. Minister Patt is not entirely new to the ministry as he served there …

Corporal of Police under investigation for shooting incident
Police Corporal Luis Matute of Camalote Village is being investigated after he shot a man twice on Monday evening. Corporal Matute has reported that it was in self-defense, since the man was armed with a machete and was advancing towards him. An official police report states that the story goes as follows: Corporal Matute was …

19-year-old shot in Toledo
A nineteen-year-old was shot in Bella Vista Village last night. According to police, Valentino Ack was walking alone on an unnamed street in the village when he came across three men. One of them shot him with a pellet gun. Ack was injured in the lower part of his right leg, left foot and on …

Breaking Belize News

BELTRAIDE to host women entrepreneurship workshop
BELTRAIDE, through its Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) Belize Unit, with funding from the Centro Regional […]

Mass shooting in Trial Farm Village leaves 4 injured
Last night around 8, police arrived at the Northern Regional Hospital where they saw four persons […]

Belize City Council appoints new City Administrator
After terminating the services of former City Administrator, Candice Miller, the Belize City Council (CITCO) has […]

Police: Young man shot while walking down the street in Bella Vista, Toledo
Police are investigating the shooting of a young man in Bella Vista Village, Toledo District. Last […]

COMPOL orders investigation in the case of man shot by police in Camalote
Authorities are investigating the shooting of a man by a police corporal in Camalote Village, Cayo. Around 6:30 pm on […]

Mayor Bernard Wagner stands up for taxi operators and cuts trade license fees in half
The Belize City Council has just passed a resolution which will reduce the burden of taxi […]

Slight increase in unemployment says SIB
Belize’s unemployment rent went up by a marginal 0.4 percent in April 2018 when compared […]

26 inmates graduate from GREAT program
Yesterday, the Belize Police Department held its first ever graduation of the Gang Resistance Education and Training (GREAT) program […]

Police take students on educational tour
Today, the staff of Eastern Division Region One took twenty-five students on an educational tour. The purpose […]

Services sector drives marginal first-quarter growth
For the first three months of 2018, both the primary and secondary sectors of the […]

International Sources

A Victory for Coral: Unesco Removes Belize Reef From Its Endangered List
It was a drop of good news about the world’s oceans: The Belize Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef system in the Northern Hemisphere, has been removed from the United Nations list of endangered world heritage sites. Unesco, the world body’s educational, scientific and cultural agency, said its heritage committee voted Tuesday to remove the reef from its list of threatened sites because it no longer faced immediate danger from development. “In the last two years, especially in the last year, the government of Belize really has made a transformational shift,” said Fanny Douvere, the coordinator of the marine program at Unesco’s World Heritage Centre. United Nations officials initially cited “mangrove cutting and excessive development” as the main concern when the reef was added to the List of World Heritage in Danger in 2009. They have also expressed concern about oil exploration. Since then, the Belize government has imposed a moratorium on oil exploration around the reef and implemented protections for coastal mangrove forests.

Relays pioneer urges Belize students: ‘Dream.’
The Vincentian-born pioneer of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Belize’s Penn Relays initiative, James Cordice, has urged graduates at the Ecumenical High School in Stan Creek, Belize to “dream extraordinarily to achieve greatness.” In addressing the school’s recent Commencement ceremony, on the theme, “Dream Extraordinarily to Achieve Greatness,” the Philadelphia-based Cordice urged the graduates to continue reaching for the stars. “You have dreamt of greatness, and you have achieved! You are done! Are you? But wait, there’s college; you must think of college; you must seek higher education,” he said in his remarks made available to Caribbean Life. “The difference in wages between the college-educated and the non-college educated or high school graduate is like night and day,” he added. “It differs by thousands [of dollars].

Special Moments Abound with a Belizean Destination Wedding
The popularity of destination weddings continues to surge as couples seek exotic locations where they can exchange vows at off-the-beaten path venues. From pristine, sandy beaches to majestic mountaintops, tying the knot has never been more adventurous. This is especially true for millennials, a generation that exhibits a very special passion for travel. While the Caribbean and Mexico continue to attract their fair share of destination weddings that occur outside the US, the tropical paradise of Belize is also becoming a popular destination. Belize gives couples access to stunning backdrops for photos, a chance to say “I do” at a Maya temple and a hassle free experience so they can spend more time with family and guests. With numerous activities from which to choose on mainland Belize, newlyweds and attendees can enjoy everything from horseback riding and hiking to spa treatments and top dining options. The picturesque coastline on the Caribbean Sea is a short puddle jumper away where couples can also experience unspoiled coastal activities such as snorkeling or diving in one of the best coral reefs in the world.

7-time charm: T&T named Caribbean National Culinary Team of the Year
For the seventh time, Trinidad and Tobago has copped the title of Caribbean National Culinary Team at Taste of the Caribbean. The annual culinary competition took place from June 22 to June 26 at the Hyatt Regency Miami. Team T&T also captured the titles of Best Non-Alcoholic Cocktail, Caribbean Bartender of the Year, Caribbean Chef of the Year (Beef Category). Trinidad and Tobago bested Barbados, the reigning champions of 2017 and several other Caribbean territories including Bahamas, Belize, Bonaire, Cayman Islands, Curaçao, Jamaica, St. Lucia, Suriname, and Turks and Caicos.

Videos

UNICEF Belize and partners is introducing the U-Report Platform to Belize, 39min.

Presidency Pro Tempore of the Central American Integration System (SICA) effective 30th June, 2018, 33min.

KTV The Remix Season 2 Premieres, 30min.

Morning Matters with Eden, 60min.

Morning Matters with Stewart Krohn, 60min.

Morning Matters at Belizean Dreams, 60min.

Morning Matters at Bocawina, 60min.

Madison Pearl speaking at the World Heritage Committee Meeting in Bahrain, 2min. Proud beyond words of our Oceana Ocean Hero and WWF International President's Youth Champion, Madison Pearl, for her message at the 42nd Session of the World Heritage Committee Meeting in Bahrain. Now we can Celebrate that through people power our Belize Barrier Reef System has been removed from the List of World Heritage Sites in Danger! Thank you WWF for giving Madison the opportunity to be a voice for the youth of Belize.

Michael Holsten, known on social media across the world as the Real Tarzan, is in Belize for a five-day tour of the country, 1.5min. A little research into his background and affiliations should be cause for concern with the ideas he's pitching for Belize.

Manatee rescue, Baby Manatee rescued from dolphins along the area of Long Caye by a fisherman and brought to Caye Caulker Fisheries where thankfully Mr.Jamal Galves was nearby and made preparations with Mr.Ali Cansino to take the manatee to Belize. Also present was Tarzan who came here to swim with the sharks and Rays.

The Real Tarzan meets the Manatee Man, 1.5min.

Belize 2018, 5min. I spent a few weeks serving PathLight International in Belize! Here are some of my experiences!

Sports Talk Show, 2hr.

Dawn Drake & ZapOte, 3min. Boss Lady, Ras Indio, and Joshua in the house!

June 27, 2018

Caye Caulker Lobster Fest Lobster Competition

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 teams with BTB and Ministry of works to improve Secret Beach road
San Pedro’s most popular beach area, Secret Beach is situated north-west of town, and now driving there will be easier and quicker after the Belize Tourism Board (BTB), in collaboration with The San Pedro Town Council and Ministry of Works, enhanced the 3.5 miles of road leading there. The combined effort saw the BTB providing the fill material, the SPTC providing fuel, and the Ministry of Works supplying machinery and labor. The resurfacing of the road also included the installation of road signs to better guide the hundreds of visitors that access the area on a daily basis. Prior to the project, a trip to the Secret Beach area would take close to an hour due to the deteriorated roads. After improvements, the time of travel has been cut by half, allowing and encouraging more visitors to drive to that beach area dotted with restaurants and beach bars.

The Belize Barrier Reef is officially off UNESCO’S In-Danger list
After being danger-listed in 2009, the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System (BBRRS) has been removed from the UNESCO World Heritage Center list of World Heritage in Danger on Tuesday, June 26th. This decision was made by the World Heritage Committee (WHC) during their 42nd annual meeting, currently taking place in Manama, Bahrain. The BBRRS was inscribed on the list in danger due to a number of threats, including unsustainable tourism development on many islands and cayes within the site. The news of possible oil and gas activities further loomed as threats to the site’s fragile ecosystem, due to concessions granted within the marine ecosystem.

78 students graduate from San Pedro Roman Catholic School
A total of 78 students received their primary school certificates at the 2018 San Pedro Roman Catholic School (SPRCS) graduation ceremony held at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium in San Pedro Town on Friday, June 24th at 5PM. The commencement exercise saw the attendance of family and friends who proudly watched the graduates accomplish another educational milestone. Mistress of Ceremonies Diana Uh welcomed everyone to the event at 5PM, and after the singing of the National Anthem, a short invocation was given by SPRCS Acting Principal Patricia Lopez.

Sandbar shines at San Pedro Lobster Festival 2018
After eight days of lobster crawl parties at various participating businesses on the island, the highly anticipated San Pedro Lobster Festival Block Party capped off the tasty celebration on Saturday, June 23rd at Central Park. Thousands of residents and visitors alike enjoyed an evening filled with the glorious sounds of the Pannerifix Steel Band, beautifully decorated booths and the best of lobster-themed dishes and drinks. The festival also saw a group of local restaurants competing in the annual food and drink competition. Taking the top prize this year for best food and drink was Sandbar Restaurant with their ‘Candy Crush’ drink and their divine lobster dish: a sweet potato ravioli in champagne cream sauce complemented with delicious chunks of lobster.

San Pedro’s GREAT programme graduates 102 students
102 students proudly received certificates marking their completion of the Gang Resistance Education and Training (GREAT) Program in a ceremony held at the Lions Den in San Pedro Town on Friday, June 22nd. The program was led by Police Constable (PC) Juan Chuc and is part of a countrywide police initiative to educate children on the consequences of gang violence. With the singing of the National Anthem by New Horizon Seventh Day Adventist School, the ceremony began shortly after 2PM. A short invocation by Pastor Clive Welsh followed, after which Mistress of Ceremonies Odilia Caliz invited PC to deliver a brief welcome.

Island MMA fighters prepare to compete in Mexico
Island resident and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) coach Martin Dawson has been busy over the past months training and preparing four MMA fighters from his Pit Fighters school to compete at the next Chetumal Xtreme Cage tournament in Chetumal, Quintana Roo, Mexico on July 7th. The team representing the island and the country consists of Gavin Duffy, Allen Cawich, Joseph ‘Tyson’ Alvarez and Juan Hernandez aka ‘Mighty Mouse.’ Hernandez is the only fighter that will be competing for a championship title in the juvenile category. The San Pedro Sun caught up with three of the fighters during their training camp on Tuesday, June 19th to learn more about their preparation process.

Ambergris Today

Assad Shoman’s Book Launch In San Pedro
Belizean writer, historian and former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Assad Shoman, was in San Pedro on Monday, June 25, 2017 for his book launch of “Guatemala’s Claim to Belize: The Definitive History”, at the Angel Nunez Auditorium. Mistress of Ceremony, Ms. Nathalie Arceo, enthusiastically introduced Mr. Shoman to those present after which Mr. Andre Perez, Chairman of the Board of Directors of San Pedro High proudly announced that the book was being sought to be added to the curriculum at the school.

Belize Celebrates Unesco's Removal From List Of World Heritage Sites In Danger
The World Heritage Committee, meeting in Manama since 24 June, decided Tuesday to remove the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System from the List of World Heritage in Danger.

Secret Beach Road Enhancement Project
BTB Joins San Pedro Town Council and Ministry of Works to enhance Secret Beach Access Road In an effort to further develop and promote the sun and beach tourism product and increasing visitors’ experience, the Belize Tourism Board in collaboration with San Pedro Town Council and Ministry of Works, has implemented a project resulting in the resurfacing of 3.5 miles of road leading to Secret Beach in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye.

Chukka Belize Delivers Backpacks To Schools In Rural Belize
On June 19 & 21, 2018, Chukka Belize delivered 75 backpacks with basic school supplies to three primary schools in rural Belize and the Belize City are a through its CHUKKA CARES initiative. The initiative is now in its 5th year and is supported by tour guides, management and staff of Chukka Belize.

Misc Belizean Sources

Vacancy at BEL
A vacancy exists at Belize Electricity Limited for the post of Senior Technician in the Transmission and Substation Department (Belize City).

Public Service Day
The theme for this year’s Public Service Day is “The Belize Public Service- Moving Towards the future with Innovation, Dedication and Perseverance”, the day is set aside on June 23rd to recognize and celebrate all those diligent public servants on which our work hinges. In health, we had Officers being recognized for 25 + years of services last week and earlier today, a ceremony for those having 10-20 years of service was organized at the Civic Center in Belize city. We salute you all as the day to day work may not be noticeable but all the good work hinges on your shoulders and the tasks we take on daily!

Decrease in Pump Prices for Diesel Oil
The Ministry of Finance is pleased to announce that, as of midnight last night, the price for Diesel Oil decreased by 22 cents per gallon at the pump in Belize City. The new price for Diesel Oil is now $10.75 per gallon. This decrease in the price of Diesel was preceded by a sharp fall in the price of Regular Gasoline of 33 cents which took effect on June 18, 2018. The current price of Regular Gasoline now stands at $11.02 per gallon. It is expected that the pump price of Premium Gasoline and Kerosene will decrease by a similar extent with the arrival of the next shipment which is due at the end of this week.

Belize Natural Energy Charitable Trust donates to Belize Police Dept.
The Belize Natural Energy (BNE) Charitable Trust today, June 26th, made a donation of BZ$8,000 to the Belize Police Department Eastern Division One. The funds will be used for the Division's summer activities for youths. The activities include swimming lessons, a Youth Engaged in Agriculture Program, and a summer camp to be held in the Corozal District. BNE Trust Chairman Mr. John August Jr. said that the institution is excited to partner with Sr. Supt. Gillett and Eastern Division One in an effort to empower the youths of Belize and unlock their potential. It is expected that around 200 young people will benefit from the activities.

Tour Guide Licensing Advisory
Please be reminded that tour guide licenses expire July 31, 2018. Applications are now available at the BTB’s Belize City Office and San Pedro office and your respective Associations.

Here's a great opportunity for young people!
Bigg Chatz is looking for dynamic new hosts for its upcoming season and are opening a call for audition tapes to be submitted by July 31st 2018. They are looking for youth 24 years and younger who are articulate, fun, energetic and are comfortable discussing the issues affecting young people in Belize!

Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System Officially Comes Off the UNESCO In Danger List
The Ministry of Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment and Sustainable Development is pleased to announce that the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System has officially been removed from the UNESCO World Heritage Center List of World Heritage in Danger. The decision came after Belize’s dossier was tabled and the matter was heard by the World Heritage Committee in Bahrain today, June 26th. Belize’s delegation to the World Heritage Committee Meeting is led by the Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Patrick Faber and the Minister of Environment, Hon. Dr. Omar Figueroa. The Ministry takes this opportunity to thank all those who have played a role in working to satisfy the conditions for removal.

National AIDS Testing Day
Don't forget to Get Tested on Friday!

Looking for something to do in the Summer
The Belize Defence Force will host a Youth Summer Challenge!

Dia de San Pedro Calendar of Events
Here you have the Calendar of Events for this weekend! We have a great line up for you all starting on Thursday night with the Opening Ceremonies which will include entertainment by Wil & Dale, Mariachi Tierra Maya and more! On Friday the festivities continue with entertainment by the Quintana Roo Folkloric Ballet Group, and all the way from the USA, we have Dawn, Drake & Zapote and lots more. And closing with a bang on Saturday we have dances by the San Pedro Dance Academywith Mexican comedian, MACTA and Belizean Band, ASCENTHIUM!

Corozal Public Library Summer Program
Your Child has nothing to do this Summer? Come and register them for a week filled with educational Activities!

Sarteneja Fisher Fair 2018
Saturday at 10 AM - 10 PM, Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development - Belize North Front Street, Sarteneja, Corozal. As part of the final activity for the Fisherfolk Month, SACD and its partner organizations would like to invite the general public to the This year event which will be full of activities: 1. Informational Booths 2. Games 3. Food 4. Drinks 5. Contests 6. Race (swimming/ Kayak) 7. Music all Day 8. Fishing Tournament (Trap Fishers 5am-8am) 9. Fresh Fish for Sale (Get your Icebox ready) 9. Water Taxi Transports (Czl-Sart book your seat at # 669-8267) 10. Dance Featuring "Dynamics of Belize" (7-10pm) This event is celebrated under the Theme, “Working towards zero hunger with sustainable small-scale fisheries!”

Corozal Summer Art Wave

Belize Defence Force RECRUTING DRIVE
The Belize Defence Force will be conducting a RECRUTING DRIVE, Countrywide; in Corozal Town at the Corozal Drill Hall up the Santa Rita Hill on San Antonio Road on Saturday, July 28th, 2018 from 7:00 a.m. Applicants must bring along copies of photo identification card, proof of citizenship, educational qualification and a recent police record. Applicants must be a Belizean Citizen, physically and mentally fit, be between the ages of 18 and 23 years, and hold a minimum of a primary school certificate. Adequate clothing is also required for the physical assessment. COME JOIN THE BELIZE DEFENCE FORCE.

Apply to University of Belize and Continue Your Education in August 2018
You still have time to apply! Over 40 programs to choose from - Associate's and Bachelor's Degrees.

Swirly Head Wine Tasting
Swirly Head is having a special wine tasting on Saturday, July 7th, at Casa Sofia. They'll have 10 different wines, and Lamanai Chocolate, to sample. There will be a raffle, and specials on the wines. The fun starts at 4:00pm, and goes until midnight. "Come taste Belize's first $100 dollar produced sparkling wine. All wines from the back of the cellar are coming out for a one of a kind tasting. Dry sparkling wines. Sweet sparkling wines. All natural made with rainwater and organic fruit. No sulfites!

Daniel Choc and Derwin Garcia Receive Heroic Act Award
Congratulations, Police Constables Daniel Choc and Derwin Garcia! They both received the Heroic Act Award for their rescue of three kids from a capsized canoe. Definitely deserved. "Heroic Act Award Recipient: Police Constables Daniel Choc and Derwin Garcia Despite flooded and ranging currents of the Christo Rey River in the Cayo District, PC Choc and PC Garcia, risked their own lives as they collectively rescued three teenage boys from a capsized canoe. Though the dangers were blaring as the officers were with nothing more than a piece of rope, located on the edge of a cliff and witnessing scared youths shouting for help, one being injured and unable to swim, the officers came to their rescue and were successful in saving the lives of the three teenage boys. Their bravery was also recognized by the San Ignacio Formation which is to be applauded."

Channel 7

Creatives Against Israeli Security Training
Today the protest of Belize's diplomatic relationship with the Israeli state came to a climax in Belmopan. For the last week or so we've told you about the Artists for Peace and Common Sense and their opposition to the police's Israeli facilitated "Police and Community" course. Today the group of artists took to the streets of Belmopan, protesting just in front of where the Police and Community course was being inaugurated. We went to Belmopan and spoke to the Minister of State for National Security, Elodio Aragon about this controversial training. Here's what he had to say, and how the protesters responded to his remarks...

Couple Charged For Killing Man
Belmopan cops have charged a Franks Eddy couple for the murder of Santos Guerra Dominguez. They are Guatemalan nationals 40 year old Arnulfo Nunez Gonzalez and his common law wife 39 year old Hilcia Cano Arevalo. As we told you, Dominguez was hanging out and drinking at their house in the village when there was some misunderstanding and Gonzalez allegedly grabbed a machete and chopped Dominguez to death. His body was found on the street side around 4:00 Sunday morning. Arevalo also had an as yet unspecified role to play in this murder.

Russell Hyde Jr - Cops Say He Shot Neighbor To Chest
In another case out west, Belmopan police charged Russell Hyde Jr. for the shooting at his house in Camalote. He has been charged with aggravated assault with a firearm and wounding. As you heard in Jose Gonzalez's account, Gonzalez went to Hyde's house and he and another man got into a fight. That is when Hyde allegedly pulled out his gun and shot Gonzalez to the chest.

Lemonal Land Dispute Goes Legal
On last week Friday's news, we told you about that high-profile land dispute in Lemonal village. Two residents, Tony Anthony, and Sharon Mae Whylie, wife of Police Commissioner Allen Whylie, are claiming ownership of the same piece of land, and neither of the 2 sides are backing down. Things came to a head last week when police arrived on scene to secure the land and keep the peace on behalf of Sharon Whylie. But, because she is married to the police boss, Anthony asserts that the police have been biased, and these agents of the state are being used to take advantage of him. Well, Sharon Whylie and her attorney, Bryan Neal, turned up the heat on Anthony yesterday with a lawyer letter telling him to vacate the property, remove the structures his built on it, and stay off, or else, they will take legal action against him.

Belize Barrier Reef Redeemed
Tonight, it's official, the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System has officially been removed from the UNESCO World Heritage Center List of World Heritage in Danger. The matter was heard today in Bahrain by the World Heritage Committee. Belize first went on the list in 2009 when there were myriad concerns including offshore oil concession blocks granted for areas adjacent to the reef system. But, since then Belize had made smart state-level decisions to protect the reef. Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Faber heads the delegation to Bahrain, and courtesy the Ambergris Today crew, here are his remarks when the decision was made:..

Health Ministry Looking For A Dialysis Solution
End stage renal failure - it's a condition affecting an increasing number of Belizeans - often a product of diabetes and hypertension. It results in patients needing dialysis two or three times a week to do what their kidneys can no longer do: clean their blood of impurities. It's very costly, and for those who cannot afford it - they must turn to the government - which can only treat a limited number of patients at Loma Luz and the KHMH. Privately, treatment for a year will cost a minimum of twenty five thousand dollars. Government is under constant pressure to subsidize this service and yesterday in Corozal the Health Minister hinted that they might be looking at a new solution:...

GREAT Graduates At Wagner’s
The GREAT Program: the police started it to keep youth productively engaged and off the streets. It was primarily designed for kids still in school, but it was extended to the youth at the Wagner's Facility - in an initiative between the police department and the Belize Central Prison. Today Courtney Weatherburne stopped by the graduation ceremony to find out how these kids benefitted from this program. A tribute to the GREAT Program, but more importantly, a strong message for these young inmates from the Wagner's Youth Facility. After about 8 weeks, 22 of them graduated:

Dr. Carla Talks Sexism In Cabinet
For the past two newscasts we've featured our extended interview with Dr. Carla Barnett. We spoke to her on her last day as the Minister of State with responsibility for Natural Resources. On Monday, she took over as the Minister Of State in Labour, Local Government, and Rural Development. We asked her how she feels taking over a far less powerful ministry: Jules Vasquez, reporter: "But you are taking a significant demotion. You are moving to a ministry that is distinctly not as high profile as natural resources." Dr. Carla Barnett: "And that's okay. First of all ministries are on par. People assume power and privilege with certain ministries, because power and privilege is the objective. That's never been my objective."

The Ashcroft Alliance, Once More Unto The CCJ
It's been almost exactly 6 years Lord Michael Ashcroft and his group of companies have been trying to move Justice of Appeal Samuel Awich as a Court of appeal judge. They were unsuccessful in convincing the Judicial and Legal Services Commission to forward their complaint against Awich to the Belize Advisory Council in 2012. This dispute ended up in the Supreme Court, then the Court of Appeal, and now, the case is before the Caribbean Court of Justice for a final appeal. The Ashcroft Alliance's complaint against Awich started as far back as July of 2012, when Ashcroft himself, Dean Boyce, and the director of the British Caribbean Bank, wrote a letter to the JLSC.

Timber Truck Toppled
No one was hurt today when a timber truck toppled on the Boom road. It happened sometime this afternoon near the Burrell Boom Bridge. The 18 wheeler, which was strapped down with dozens of Pine Trees was top heavy and tipped over around a corner. It slid into the bushes, but the driver was not hurt - according to reports.

Diesel Drops Slightly
Fuel prices are inching down. Last night at midnight, the price for a gallon of diesel went down by 22 cents to $10.75 in the city. And, 8 days ago, Regular fuel went down by 33 cents a gallon - leaving it at a still prohibitive $11.02 per gallon. The good news is that the Ministry of Finance says this is the start of a trend. The technocrats promise that the pump price of Premium and Kerosene will decrease by a similar extent with the arrival of the next shipment at the end of this week. A release notes, that fuel prices are stabilizing as OPEC has stepped up production to meet demand.

BELTRAIDE Looking Out For The Lady Entrepreneurs
Today, BELTRAIDE and the Small Business Development Centre launched a workshop focused on women entrepreneurs. The idea is that they should receive equal access to opportunities and services when it comes to growing and developing their businesses. We spoke to a representative from the SBDC about the workshop... The course, which was originally designed to be taught in 5 days has been condensed into a 3 day, intensive course taking place this week.

BNE Plays Big Brother To Region 1
Just before our commercial break, you saw Senior Superintendent Howell Gillett interacting with the youths from the Wagner's Youth facility after they graduated from the Police Department's Gang Resistance Education and Training (GREAT). Well, later today, Gillett received a cheque for $8,000 from the BNE Charitable Trust. The money will be used to fund summer programs for at-risk youths in Belize City. By now, you'll know very well that Gillett, with the backing of his police bosses, pushes very hard to provide outreach programs for the kids in his Region 1. At the handing over event, the Chairman of the BNE Charitable Trust said that saying yes to this donation was very easy:

Belmopan Cops Found City Men With Gun
Belmopan cops busted two men with a weapon and ammunition. This afternoon around 2:40, police stopped a black Kia sportage between miles 48 and 49 on the George Price Highway. They searched the vehicle and found a .38 revolver and one live round of ammunition. Police arrested and charged the driver Deon Flowers of Belama Phase 1 and his passenger 35 year old Godwin Strawn of Sandhill village for kept unlicensed firearm and ammunition.

The Real Tarzan In Town
Whenever the late Australian Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin's show would come on - you can't say that you didn't watch in awe as he wrestled with those huge reptiles. Well, one big fan, American Michael Holston did more than just watch in amazement - he grew up to be bold just like Irwin - getting cozy with tigers, jaguars, poisonous snakes among a long list of animals. Holston is well known as the "the Real Tarzan" and he is in Belize to see what new experiences he can have with all the animals here. Courtney Weatherburne was there to welcome him at the airport. Here's her story one this brave, one of a kind guy.

Channel 5

Belize Barrier Reserve System Officially Delisted from UNESCO’s “in Danger” List
The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System is finally off the List of World Heritage in Danger. The precious ecosystem was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1996, but in [...]

Guatemalans Respond to the Delisting Saying the Reef System is under Dispute
Taking in the announcement, Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Faber reminded the international community that Belize’s ecosystems are under attack due to continued incursions, including illegal fishing and the pillaging of [...]

Protesters Descends on Belmopan to Object to Israeli Training of Police
Artists converged in Belmopan today for a protest against the state of Israel. It was prompted by the decision of the government to allow for the Israeli police to offer [...]

Protesters Not Fazed by National Evangelical Association of Belize
Just before the protest got underway, the National Evangelical Association of Belize offered its support. NEAB went on the offensive to say that Palestinians, funded and backed by terrorists, recently [...]

CCJ Hears Case about Justice Samuel Awich in the Belize Judiciary
The Caribbean Court of Justice today heard arguments concerning a judge in the Belize judiciary. In 2012, Dean Boyce and the British Caribbean Bank Limited, as well as Lord Michael [...]

Investigation Should Determine Whether Justice Awich Remains on Bench
Given the evidence that is presently before the court, as well as the Judicial and Legal Services Commission, Courtenay says that an investigation should be undertaken to determine whether Justice [...]

Attorney Leona Duncan Defends the Decision of the Judicial & Legal Services Commission
Attorney Leona Duncan, who appeared on behalf of the Solicitor General’s Office, submitted that the decision by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission not to forward the complaint against Justice [...]

CCJ Hears Dangerous Harm Case Against Gilbert Henry
The Caribbean Court of Justice also heard from Director of Public Prosecutions, Cheryl Lyn Vidal. The D.P.P. is seeking the CCJ to re-instate an oral ruling delivered on twenty-second March [...]

Guatemalan Nationals Charged for Murder of Salvadoran Man in Franks Eddy Village
Belmopan Police have arrested and charged a man and a woman in the brutal chopping death of fifty-two-year-old Santos Guerra Dominguez. Guatemalan nationals’ forty-year-old Arnulfo Nunez Gonzalez and thirty-nine-year-old Hilcia [...]

Fire Destroys an Abandoned Building in Corozal Town
While residents of Corozal Town were in deep slumber, a fire erupted in the Rainbow Town area. Sometime before three this morning, the fire engulfed an abandoned building located across [...]

Mo’s Supermarket Targeted by Armed Thieves in Corozal
Just before the close of business on Monday night, a robbery occurred in the heart of Corozal Town on Fifth Avenue. Shan He, the proprietor of Mo’s Supermarket, was targeted [...]

9-Year-Old Drowns in Corozal
Also up north, a nine-year-old student from Halls Layout drowned after a swim at the beach in Corozal Bay. Around midday on Monday, thirty-year-old Hector Kelly took his son, Mathew [...]

2 Men Busted with Gun in Belmopan
Police made a bust today in Belmopan in which two men were arrested. During a joint operation before three o’clock this afternoon, a vehicle was searched between miles forty-eight and [...]

Is Jane Doe Leanne Gagliardi?
On Monday, we reported that one of our viewers from Hopkins in southern Belize reached out to our newsroom saying that she recognized Jane Doe, a Caucasian woman, whose body [...]

First Group of Inmates Graduates from the GREAT Programme
The GREAT programme of the Police Department has been going on for some time involving youths from primary schools who are encouraged to participate to keep them away from the [...]

Diesel Takes a Dip at the Pumps
The price for diesel decreased by twenty-two cents per gallon at the pump in Belize City and is selling at ten dollars and seventy-five cents. A release from the government [...]

The Real Tarzan in Belize for 5-day Tour
Michael Holsten, known on social media across the world as the Real Tarzan, is in Belize for a five-day tour of the country. The twenty-four-year-old is an exotic animal specialist, [...]

SBDC Training Empowers Women Entrepreneurs
BELTRAIDE, through its Small Business Development Center Unit, with funding support from a regional organization that assists micro, small and medium enterprises and United States of America, is implementing a [...]

It’s Back!! KTV the Remix Season 2
Gather up the family and stay tuned to Channel Five because coming up at eight-thirty tonight is the premier of this season’s audition show of your all-time favourite KTV the [...]

LOVE FM

BELTRAIDE to help women entrepreneurs gain economic autonomy
BELTRIADE, through its SBDC Belize Unit is holding a workshop to assist women entrepreneurs to gain economic autonomy through a specialized methodology of services. Nilda Riverol, Manager of the SBDC Belize tells us more about the work. Nilda Riverol, Manager of the SBDC Belize: We have representatives from the Commission for the promotion of Micro Small …

Outdoor gym is opened in Corozal Town
A wellness park was opened in Corozal Town on Sunday. The project is a collaboration between the Republic of China Taiwan and the Belize Government. Minister of Health Pablo Marin and Taiwan Ambassador to Belize Charles Liu spoke of the initiative. Minister of Health Pablo Marin: Even in the Ministry of health we are looking …

Belize Barrier Reef no longer on World Heritage in Danger list
The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System has officially been removed from the UNESCO World Heritage Center List of World Heritage in Danger. The decision came after Belize’s dossier was tabled and the matter was heard by the World Heritage Committee in Bahrain today. Fanny Douvere, Coordinator of the Marine Program at the World Heritage Centre …

BNE donates to police department to help children
The Belize Natural Energy Trust handed a check for eight thousand dollars to the Belize Police Department in a short ceremony today in Belmopan. Commander for Region One in Belize City, Senior Superintendent Howell Gillett accepted the check on behalf of the Police Department. The funds will be used to support three summer programs for …

Ministry of Agriculture personnel learn more on coconut nursery management
The Ministry of Agriculture held a training workshop on coconut nursery establishment and management with its personnel in Dangriga. It was facilitated by the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute, CARDI, under the Caribbean Coconut Industry Development Project. In an over the phone interview, District Agriculture Coordinator for the Stann Creek District, Marvin Blades spoke …

Nine-year-old boy drown in sea in Corozal Town
A nine year old child has drowned in Corozal Town. Police report that on Monday, shortly after midday, 30-year-old Hector Kelly and his son Mathew Andrew Gonzalez went to the beach for a swim. Reports are that around 1:45 that afternoon, the nine year old boy was found floating unconscious in the sea. He was …

69-year-old woman goes missing
Police are looking for a 69-year-old woman who has been reported missing. Gerald Robinson, a resident of the Cayo District told police that his wife, 69-year-old Thelma Hoare Robinson left their house on a Santa Familia bus to an unknown destination. She has not returned home since. She was last seen carrying a pink hand …

Businessman still missing as police make no progress in search
Police say they continue to comb the northern districts in search of businessman Omero Campos who went missing on June 17. While police say there is nothing new to report to the press, they continue their search in hopes of finding him alive. Acp Joseph Myvett Head C.I.B.: They are still conducting an intensive investigation, …

Woman who washed up on Hopkins been remains unidentified
Police are still trying to identify the woman who was found dead on a beach in Hopkins Village last week. The woman’s body washed up in an advanced state of decomposition. Today police say that they have been able to trace her final steps at least two days before she was found dead. Acp Joseph …

Israel training of Belize police is met with opposition
A group called Artists for Peace and Common Sense is outraged over the Government of Belize accepting an invitation from the Israelis to train Belize’s police officers. The group received one hundred and seventy signatures from persons who also condemn the move by the Government of Belize. Love News spoke with Yasser Musa, who explains …

Attorney OJ Elrington places bid for the Freetown Division in the UDP Camp
There is a new bid for the Freetown Division in the United Democratic Party Camp. Today attorney, O. J. Elrington made the a…

School Security Guard stabbed by mob
Police are still looking for a group of about six men who ambushed and stabbed 56-year-old Samuel Welch on Sunday morning. T…

Seafarer Day celebrated under the theme “seafarers’ well-being”
Today is being celebrated as Seafarer Day under the theme “seafarers’ well-being”. In 2010, the day of the seafarer was est…

Businesswoman robbed at gunpoint in her house; police charge one man
A businesswoman from St. Matthew’s Village in the Cayo District, Bibiana Cus was targeted by robbers on Friday night. The 45…

18-year-old shot while walking with his family
Eighteen-year-old Tyrese Smith is recovering from gunshot wounds he sustained in La Democracia Village. The incident happene…

Man hangs himself in police cell block; police does not suspect foul play
Police do not suspect foul play in the death of 56-year old Lindberg Anthony who is believed to have hung himself while in p…

Amandala

Suicide in Crooked Tree Police Station holding cell
Lindberg Anthony, 56, a mechanic of Crooked Tree who was being held in a detention cell at the Crooked Tree Police Station last night, was found hanging by a cloth that was tied around his neck and tied to a window inside the cell block about two hours after he was detained. Apparently, said police, Anthony tore his shirt and used the cloth to hang himself. Anthony was pronounced dead on arrival at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital.

BZ$251,000 in 48 hours for Omero Campos’ life
Omero Campos, 43, a businessman of San Narciso, Corozal District, whose family learned that he had been kidnapped on Father’s Day after he had gone missing, apparently is still being held by his kidnappers. This kidnapping case has had police baffled to the point where they have been reluctant to make comments to the media. The Campos kidnapping saga took on a new, dangerous twist when the purported kidnappers made a bold demand today via an email that they sent to two media houses, News5 and Breaking Belize News, demanding 20 bitcoins (about BZ$251,103.16 at current rates) for Campus’ release.

The Bliss in terrible shape
The Bliss Institute was built in 1954 at a cost of a little over a quarter million dollars and was a one-of-a-kind facility in Belize City, with the upper part housing the Belize Library National Collection and reading room, while the lower flat doubled as an auditorium and exhibition area. With the passage of time, the Bliss, as the venerable institute is known, was transformed into the Bliss Center for the Performing Arts when the building was restructured and refurbished by a Mexican construction company in 2003. Today, fifteen years after the Bliss opened its doors, Amandala visited the Bliss, and sadly, observed that time and the elements have wreaked havoc on the structure. The roof is leaking from several different areas and is in urgent need of repairs or replacement.

Israel’s training of Belize police causes uproar
Tomorrow, Tuesday, a protest is scheduled to take place at a most unlikely place, when members from Belize’s artistic and literary community descend on the space in front of the National Police Training Academy in Belmopan to register their rejection of the “community police training” that is being offered to the Belize Police Department by the state of Israel in commemoration of Israel’s 70th anniversary of independence. A permit to hold the protest from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. was issued last Thursday from the police headquarters in Belmopan.

Unknown Caucasian woman drowns in Hopkins
aucasian woman on the beach in southern Hopkins. The identity of the woman is unknown, but a police report said that she had long, blonde hair and was wearing a khaki blouse and short, green pants. The body was found by a diver, but there is no evidence that the deceased woman had been a guest at any hotel in the area. News5, which visited Hopkins, reported that Wednesday was the last time she was seen.

Belizean teacher graduates from US university with 4.0
Dawn Wade, an administrative vice principal who has been working at St. Martin De Porres School for the past 26 years, recently returned to Belize after graduating with her Master’s Degree from St. Louis University. Wade, who is a wife and mother of four boys, told Amandala that she decided to further her education after receiving a scholarship through the partnership of the Belize 2020 project and St. Louis University. According to the Belize 2020 website, it is a “non-profit volunteer organization focused on improving the quality of life in Belize by supporting Jesuit ministries in that country.”

FC Elite, 3-1, over Progresso FC in game 1 of Inter-District Finals at MCC; game 2 for the championship this Sunday in Orange Walk
Belize City’s FC Elite prevailed, 3-1, yesterday at the MCC Grounds in Game 1 of the FFB’s Amateur Inter-District Club Tournament Finals against Progresso FC from Orange Walk. After a home-and-away round-robin with 16 teams countrywide had dwindled to just these two, it was the first visit of the Progresso team to the MCC Grounds; and before they could adjust to the uneven and dusty turf, they found themselves down, 2-0, to the hosts, courtesy of an opening minute strike by Tyriq “Hamma” Ciego (1’), followed a few minutes later by free kick blast from 35 yards out by Naim “Long Range” Wilson (6’).

Pedal by Pedal – Weekend Warriors Race of Sunday, June 24, 2018
Having not raced for a few weeks, the Warriors were itching to rumble; so, 53 total riders showed up for this 53-mile race from Leslie’s to Mile 30 and back to Old Belize for the finish. So, remember, 53 is your lucky number this week. From the very start, the attacks were furious; and, although a few breaks got away, none succeeded until Daniel Cano of Team Santino’s made his move and took in tow his teammate, Sherman Thomas and Vallan Symns of Kulture.

Over-40 football tournament nearing playoffs
The FFB National Over-40 Football Tournament 2018 had a full schedule of games over the past weekend, as the tournament nears the top-4 playoffs, which will include the top 2 teams from each group – North and South. Only 3 weeks of regular season remain in the double round-robin for each group.

Editorial: The swamp that became The Jewel
At this newspaper, we feel the most important thing you have to know about Belizeans who left here for the United States, if you would begin to understand their psyche, is that the vast majority of us were leaving here with an inferiority complex where our country of origin was concerned. It appears that fairly significant migration began after 1950 when middle class Belizeans, many of whom were civil servants (as public officers were known back then), became uncomfortable with the anti- colonial agitation of the young People’s United Party (PUP). The PUP was threatening to disrupt the traditional British order of things, so some families decided to leave.

From The Publisher
Early this month, a couple weeks before the World Cup began in Russia, I was sitting with my younger sister’s husband at a birthday celebration for my father. My brother-in-law is from Dominica, and he is very much a music aficionado. It never occurred to me that he would not have been acquainted with a song by the one Lord Melody (Fitzroy Alexander) of Trinidad, a song my siblings and I spent many years listening to while it was being played loudly on the jukebox in Rick’s Bar across the canal/Bolton Bridge from our home. As I have written in this column before, my parents moved with us children from Church Street to West Canal near Regent Street West in 1954. At that time, the two-storey building which later housed the said Rick’s Bar downstairs and Rick’s Club upstairs, was owned by a famous, wealthy mahogany contractor named Ben Stuart, and it was clearly one of his offices. Mr. Stuart’s beautiful, white Jaguar automobile would be parked outside, while logging trucks (camiones) would come and go periodically.

Attacks the Public Service Workers Trust
Dear Editor, I write to express my frustration with the arrogant and disrespectful behavior of the trustees of the Public Service Workers Trust. I understand that the issue is before the courts and that a prolonged mediation process is underway. However, we the beneficiaries of the trust are frustrated and demand a positive outcome as soon as possible. We, the victims, lost our increments from 1995-1997. Some pensioners have passed away and many others are ill and struggling to survive. We are not interested in loans or projects – we demand our lost income.

Pen Cayetano and Andy Palacio honored
On Friday 22nd June at the Institute of Creative Arts, the Belize International Jazz Festival, organized by the National Institute of Culture and History, held a tribute concert to honor Andy Palacio and Pen Cayetano for their contributions to Belizean music and culture. The festival, now in its fourth year, was dedicated to these two icons and lights of Belizean music and Garifuna culture. Omolewa Ossain, Guayayo and Coco Bar, and The Garifuna Collective delivered three scintillating sets of music and original compositions worthy of these great men and their stellar and enduring contributions to Belizean life and music.

Israel Jews still not seeking peace
We are told that the Jews’ claim on Israel is rooted in a promise God made to Abraham. God so loved the Jews, He wanted them to have that land. But God wasn’t about sullying His hands to get the job done. He could have smitten their neighbors with deadly diseases or something else really bad, so His people could just walk right in and put in the cement pillars with the “crow foot”. He didn’t. The Jews had to fight for the land. Those bohgaz, with the belief in a decree from above to bolster their courage, have become very good at this war business.

2-year-old child badly bitten by pitbull
On Saturday, June 23, a 2-year-old boy, Kyle Carter, was rushed to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital after he was badly bitten in the face by a pitbull. Carter and his mother, Brianna Kelly, were walking through the gate of their home on #168 Raccoon Street Extension after coming from the store when Kelly turned her back and the dog, which was one of the family’s dogs, suddenly attacked Carter. The dog reportedly dragged him across the yard, and the family had to beat it with a stick in order to force it to release the child. Carter suffered severe facial injuries, that required over 100 facial stitches, but is now in a stable condition.

Clifford Welch, 56, school watchman, beaten and stabbed at work
Clifford Samuel Welch, 56, a watchman for the Lake Independence Methodist School located on Mahogany Street, is presently recovering in a stable condition in the surgical ward at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH). Information to us is that at about 3:30 yesterday morning, Welch was conducting routine security checks of the school and was on the verandah of the second floor of the school building when he was approached by about 6 or 7 men. Welch was then attacked and stabbed 16 times in his chest, abdomen and shoulders and beaten by the men, who then fled the scene empty handed. Welch was left to die of his injuries on the verandah, where he was bleeding profusely.

Dr. Louis Zabaneh elected PUP standard bearer for Dangriga, Sarawee and Hope Creek
The Opposition People’s United Party (PUP) continues to conduct conventions in a number of the 31 existing electoral constituencies to select standard bearers to face the incumbent United Democratic Party (UDP) in the next general elections in 2020, and on Sunday a crowded field of 5 candidates offered themselves as standard bearer for the Dangriga, Sarawee and Hope Creek constituency. The convention was held at Sacred Heart Primary School. The polling for the convention closed at 4:00 p.m. and immediately, workers from the PUP Secretariat and representatives of the candidates began the counting.

5 motorcyclists die in traffic accidents within 36 hours
Within 48 hours, 5 men died in three separate road traffic collisions while riding motorcycles. The men were identified as Alex Duncan, a laborer of Placencia; Maurice Palma, 28, a boat captain of Placencia; Victor Manuel Martinez, 56, a laborer of Steadfast, Stann Creek District; Roland Dyck, 19, and Franz Martin, 17, both laborers of Spanish Lookout. The first collision occurred at about 1:00 yesterday morning, Thursday, June 21.

The Reporter

Student reportedly drowns in Corozal
A student of Halls Layout, Corozal, reportedly drowned this afternoon in that town. Information reaching the Reporter is that the boy, aged 9, went with his parents in the Miami Beach area and was swimming when one of the parents realized he was not around. […]

Breaking Belize News

BNE donates $8000 to Police Department for summer activities
The Belize Natural Energy (BNE) Charitable Trust today made a donation of $8,000 to the […]

World Wildlife Fund celebrates Belize Barrier Reef’s de-listing
Belizeans and environmentalists worldwide are celebrating the removal of the Belize Barrier Reef, one of the […]

Evangelical churches support Israeli-Police training
The National Evangelical Association of Belize (NEAB) issued a release today expressing deep concern about the […]

PUP expels Rocio Quiroz from party
She was a councilor candidate on the People’s United Party (PUP) Belmopan slate which lost […]

Fair weather to continue
The 24-hour forecast is for mostly fair weather to continue. Sunny skies with a few […]

Money Gram employee held at gunpoint in Ladyville
Yesterday morning, 26-year-old Nekeshia Martinez, the front desk clerk for Travel Conceirge and also an […]

Hopkins business owner robbed and assaulted
On Sunday, June 24, Yanliu Zheng, 46, and owner of Best Choice Supermarket in Hopkins […]

Camalote resident stabbed while socializing
On Sunday, Cresencio Olgaldez, 23, a construction worker of Camalote village reported to police that he […]

Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System officially de-listed from UNESCO’s danger list
Today, the Ministry of Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment and Sustainable Development announced that the Belize […]

Two minors detained for illegal firearm
Yesterday around 8:36 a.m., while police were patrolling the Mayflower Area, cops confiscated a .9mm […]

Blogs

Columbia Kids Project re-purposes produce bags to help fund extracurricular activities
Parents in the village of San Pedro, Columbia in the Toledo District of Southern Belize have initialed a project to raise funds to support extracurricular activities for their children while recycling produce bags. The Columbia Kids Project takes heavy-duty bags, originally used for large quantities of rice brands, rabbit feed and even dog food, and fashions them into unique market bags that are not only functional but colorfully portray the Belizean culture. The village is made up of many artisans: weavers, stone carvers, artists and chocolate makers! Many artists and artisans have joined the project and a percentage of their sales go towards helping the kids project. Every item is tagged, and each tag informs exactly how much money paid contributes to the project. These strong and pretty bags sell for $5, with $2 going directly to the person who sews it, $2 directly towards the projects, .75 cents for materials and transport and .25 cents to the student who brings in the original bag.

Sea of People – The San Pedro Lobster Fest Block Party 2018
After a week-long Lobster Crawl the big day finally arrived – The San Pedro Lobster Fest Block Party 2018. This year marked the 12th annual Lobster Festival and it is still going stronger than ever. Right from the get-go on Saturday morning messages were flying back and forth about meeting up, who was going to get Rotary seating which included food service, and general party anticipation. My friend Debbie and I arrived just after 5:00 and already it was a steady sea of people. We still managed to connect with our other friend Denise. All night long I kept losing them and finding them again due to my wandering off to take pics which lead to ebb and flow with the crowd.

Gorgeous Sparkly Sargasso-Free Monday on Both Sides of Ambergris Caye
It has been no secret – especially to those that live in Belize and much of the Caribbean – that there has been a serious sargasso bloom this season. Starting in mid-February, it’s been coming and going but mostly…coming. Until now… Yesterday I took a boat ride from San Pedro town to Cayo Frances Farm & Fly and back again. What a gorgeous gorgeous super duper gorgeous day. Here’s a map with the basic route and then lots of pics.

International Sources

An Indulgent Escape at Turneffe Island Resort
The gentle breeze that washes over the brilliant white sands at Turneffe Island Resort is omnipresent. It cools, keeps the island free of bugs and combined with the gentle sounds of surf and island fauna creates a sort of tropical white noise that cocoons guests in intimate tranquility. And that's before they even step foot inside their accommodations. The first thing I noticed about the resort upon arrival from Belize City on the resort's twice-weekly shuttle boat, right after the pleasant vista of the bungalows and towering palms swaying in all their golden hour technicolor. The breeze and surf drown out all but intimate conversation, allowing guests to focus their attentions entirely on their closest traveling companions, accentuated by the backdrop of this fantastical natural environment.

Chetumal is booming with substantial migration from other parts of Mexico
Quintana Roo’s state capital is trying to evolve into a world-class travel destination, and all the tourism activity of the city gravitates around Chetumal Bay. If you want to admire its natural attractions, you can visit the north part of the Bay, Punta Estrella and Catalán, Calderitas Bay, or Tamalcab Island. If you enjoy water sports, you can sail one of the canals all the way to Guerrero Lake, almost 2 hours away from the state capital. If you drive along Chetumal’s boulevard you can get to Calderitas, a fishermen’s cove where you can find exquisite gastronomy based on the fruits of the sea.

The water in the tropical Atlantic is the coldest in decades. That may stymie hurricane season
Temperatures at the surface of the tropical Atlantic Ocean have become remarkably colder than normal. The cold water could have profound impacts on this year’s hurricane season, since warm water is the fuel source for tropical storms. Prospects for a second straight busy hurricane season have diminished markedly. Coastal residents on edge after the horrible 2017 season may be relieved by this news but should remain vigilant. It can take just one storm to make even a quiet season memorable. Currently, sea surface temperatures averaged over the tropical Atlantic (shown in the black box in the image below) are the coldest that they have been in the middle of June since at least the early 1980s. Colder water means less fuel for storms, and it also tends to be associated with higher pressure and a more stable atmosphere — both of which suppress strong thunderstorms that are the building blocks of hurricanes.

Videos

Wildlife Tourism contributes significantly to our national economy, 2min. Attracting thousands here to experience seeing our wildlife in the wild. More profoundly, wildlife tourism can help all of us to gain a deeper appreciation for our diverse wildlife and rich ecosystems. Have you visited a Wildlife Tourism destination lately? You might want to visit: The Belize Zoo, Spanish Creek Wildlife Sanctuary, Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and others…

Primary Education in Belize - Interpreting the results / Identifying the Challenges 2018 Results, 60min.

The Institute of Archaeology - Annual Belize Archaeology Symposium, 25min.

SPOKENWORD 501- importance of writing as a creative outlet, 42min.

POSH Hair Studio, 24min.

2018 Summer Creative Programming, 3min. The Government of Belize’s Central Information Technology Office (CITO) will host its 2018 Summer Creative Programming from July 9th to August 3rd.

Meeting with Alcaldes in Dolores Village, 3.5min. On Thursday, June 20th, the Minister of National Security Hon. John Saldivar, along with members from the Belize Defence Force, CEO Felix Enriquez, and Belize’s Ambassador to Guatemala H.E. Alexis Rosado, held a meeting with Alcaldes in Dolores Village in the Toledo District, on issues regarding encroachments by Guatemalan farmers on Mayan communal lands.

New Conservation Post in the South Cebada, 5min. The Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT), along with the Ministry of Forestry, the Environment and Sustainable Development, the Ministry of National Security, and the Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD), inaugurated a new Conservation Post in the South Cebada area of the Chiquibul National Park on June 14th.

FIRE DESTROYS ABANDONED HOUSE, 2min. An abandoned brick house with zinc roof located on 7th Street North, in-front of Rainbow Town Park, which was completely gutted inside by an early fire this morning which allegedly broke out around 3:00 a.m., re-ignites just before 5:00 p.m. this evening. Corozal Fire Department were immediately dispatched to the scene to contain the blaze. Witnesses in the neighbourhood said that a homeless person was calling for a fire extinguisher early this morning right after the fire started. Apparently, he was living inside the abandoned building. No one has been reported injured.

Belize Recap Video, 25min.

Tapir - Sittee River, Belize, 1.5min.

Agronomist Gasper Martinez Jr., 28min.

Project Belize 2018, 31min. NDSU Nursing

Iguanas everywhere while visiting in Belize, 1min.

Swimming in Belize river back flips front flips and more must watch, 11min.

Scuba Dive Belize, 2015, Gopro Hero 4, 5min.

The Octopus and the Puffer, Belize Reefs, 1/2min.

Accion Deportiva, 60min.

Police Check Point, 60min.

CHTA 2018 Taste of the Caribbean Awards Dinner, 5min.

Taste of the Caribbean - Master Chef Competition!, 3.5min.

June 25, 2018

I will be unable to do the daily news tomorrow, Tuesday June 26. I will return on Wednesday morning.

Taste of the Caribbean 2018 Photos

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

22 Graduate from Belize Youth Challenge Programme
The Belize Youth Challenge Programme (BYC) today, June 21st, marked the closure of its first intake with a passing out ceremony for the 22 cadets who successfully completed the residential phase of the programme. Since the start of the programme in October 2017, young men ages 15-17 have learnt discipline, leadership, and teamwork; taking academic and vocational classes and keeping fit with physical training and military drills. In his remarks, Minister of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation (MHDSTPA), Hon. Anthony Martinez applauded the cadets on completing the course: “You took up the challenge to create a new path for your lives and have successfully completed this Belize Youth Challenge journey, and for that, we are very proud of you, and you should also be proud of yourselves.”

Doctor Love: Henpecked
Dear Doctor Love, My wife is a nag. There is always something she wants me to do around the house and if I don’t do it the first time she asks she gets huffy and ends up mad at me. Sometimes she nags me two or three days to do something until I just go do it. Even my son calls her a nag. How do I get her to stop picking at me all of the time? /s/Henpecked

Misc Belizean Sources

Jesuits give a scholarship to one of its SCJ Peeps
Rootsman to LALA land: The amazing journey of Rudolph Thompson so far… by yasser musa. If you venture to Burrel Boom the home village of Rudy Thompson you will traverse some of Belize’s most beautiful and lush landscapes as the road bends adjusting to the flow of the mighty Belize River. It was there born and raised that Thompson developed a roots man character, a love for community and a spirit of bringing people together. And it is from that same spot that people drive from miles away to sit in his tattoo chair so that he could work intricate designs into their skin.

School Security Guard In Critical Condition
Clifford Samuel Welch, a security guard was working at St. Luke Methodist School when he was stabbed several times and beaten on the second floor verandah of the school building. The incident occurred Sunday 24.6.2018 before 8 a.m. The 56 year old man is in a critical condition at the KHMH.

Aurel Lewis wins Men's Physique category & the overall in Taiwan
A Big Congratulations to Aurel Lewis who won the Men's Physique category & the overall in Taiwan. He took part in the College Cup Taiwan and came on top. Mr. Lewis is an accomplish Men's Physique, he represented Belize & placed 5th in the IFBB World Championship in 2016. He has been the Men's Physique Champion in Belize and now he has top the College competition a qualifier event for the IFBB Elite Pro to be held in Spain. Kudos to him & we wish you all the best in your journey. This is an example of excellence. Keep up the good work. We are proud of you!!!!!

Belize Hotel Association 2018 Annual General Meeting
The Belize Hotel Association (BHA) is hosting its 2018 Annual General Meeting on Tuesday July 3rd, 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.

Musical Concert and CD LAUNCH PARTY in Corozal
"Allan D Real McCoy" in conjunction with the Corozal Town Council will be presenting a Musical Concert and CD LAUNCH PARTY of beautiful genres of english, spanish and instrumental music dedicated to the late Ray Gonzales. Come and listen to great music on Saturday, June 30th from 7:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. at the Corozal Central Park. CD's will be on sale for $5.00. Come out and support our Corozal music and culture!

Dawn Drake & ZapOte Concert
Jazzfest might be over, but Dawn Drake and ZapOte will be performing in Belmopan on Wednesday. Ras Indio and Stig Da Artist will be opening. "All are invited to come out at the Mae Gordon Park on Wednesday, 27th June for an evening of live musical performances. You don't want to miss two of Belmopan known artists; Ras Indio and Stig da Artist and ZapOte live in concert from out of New York"

Jewel Fury Wins NAWL
Congratulations Jewel Fury! The won at the NAWL finals last night. They defeated the Rumberas, 3 - 0. Jennisha Scott was named MVP. "NAWL finals 2018, Closing Ceremony. Jewel Fury Champions. Photos courtesy of Raineldo Guerrero."

Cayo Public Service Information Day 2018
Ricky Cunil was the MC for this year's Cayo Public Service Information Day - held at the Cayo Welcome Center - and he got some great pictures of the event. "Cayo Public Service Information Day. Had the honor of being invited as Master of Ceremonies. The Public Services conducts its public information day annually to educate the people about the various departments within government which help run the country. The information day also serves to give information and requirements to students and persons interested in joining the government work force in the various ministries."

Panerrifix Percussion Camp 2018
The Panerrifix Steel Band is having a Percussion Camp next month. If you want to learn the steel pan or marimba, here's your chance. Contact them at 635-9339 for more information.

San Pedro Lobster Fest 2018 Photos
The week-long festivities ended with a bang on Saturday at San Pedro Lobster Fest. Complete with a Lobster food competition and Steelpan Band Concert, attendees reveled in all things lobster!

The Reporter

Security guard critical following stabbing on school compound
A security guard is in a critical condition after he was attacked and stabbed while on duty at the school where he works in Belize City. Clifford Samuel Welch, 56, who is employed as the security guard at St. Luke’s Methodist primary school on Mahogany Street was on the verandah of the second floor of the school building around 7:30 this morning when someone attacked him. The assailant(s) inflicted multiple stab wounds over Welch’s body, leaving him then ran off. Welch is in a critical condition at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. Police have no suspects so far.

Police identify Franks Eddy chopping victim
Police say that Salvadoran, Santos Sabino Guerra Dominguez, 52, was the victim of the chopping this morning in Franks Eddy village, Cayo. Police were summoned to the village sometime after 4:00 a.m., where they found Dominguez’ body face up on the side of the road with chop wounds on the right side of the neck, face and back of the head. Police found out that Santos was socializing in the village sometime around 1:30 a.m., and left to go home whena man attacked him and chopped him. Police have no one detained.

Police investigate man’s death at police station
Police have released the name of the detainee who was found hanging inside the police station cell block in Crooked Tree village last night. Ladyville police responded around 10:00 to the call from Crooked Tree police that the man, Lindberg Anthony, a resident of the village, who was under the influence of alcohol, was detained at around 7:45 p.m., pending a charge of ‘uttering indecent words’. Crooked Tree police say that when they checked on Anthony two hours later, they found him hanging.

Man found hanging in police holding cell
A man was reportedly found hanging in a police holding cell last night, but his family believes foul play was involved in his death. The report reaching the Reporter is that the incident happened at the Crooked Tree police station and the deceased – a 56 year-old man – was found hanging sometime before 10:00 last night, about two hours after he was detained pending a charge of ‘uttering indecent words”. The man’s family question the circumstances of the man’s death because his feet were reportedly in a bent position, touching the floor.

Fatal chopping in Franks Eddy village, Cayo
Reports reaching the Reporter indicates that a fatal chopping occurred about an hour ago in Franks Eddy village, Cayo. The victim – a man – reportedly suffered a chop wound to his face. Police are transporting the body at this time to the morgue, while their investigations begins. The Reporter will have details of this incident when the police provides the information.

Breaking Belize News

Dr. Louis Zabaneh wins PUP Dangriga Convention
Reports reaching our newsroom are that a police vehicle with officers from San Ignacio Police Station fired several shots in the vicinity of Eden High School in Santa Elena Town about 10 minutes ago. Residents contacted BBN to inform us of the incident in the residential area.

Police shootout in Santa Elena Town?
In southern Belize, a family is asking for the public’s assistance in locating a stolen vehicle. Santa Cruz resident, Alton Burgess, today told police that his black 2000 Ford Escape was stolen from inside his yard sometime between late last night and early this morning.

Vehicle stolen in southern Belize
A chopping incident in Frank’s Eddy village in the Cayo district has left a Salvadoran farmer dead. He has been identified as Sabino Guerra. Early this morning the victim was working at his home in the village when an unidentified man inflicted the fatal injuries.

Salvadoran man chopped to death in Frank’s Eddy village, Cayo
Crooked Tree resident and career mechanic, Linberg Anthony, affectionately known as ‘Bug Nine’ was reportedly found dead in the Crooked Tree police station last night. Reports to BBN, confirmed by Police, are that around 10 p.m. Anthony was found naked inside his cell and hanging by his shirt.

Man found hanging dead while detained in Crooked Tree police station
A watchman is in a critical condition at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) after he was found stabbed, and left for dead, while on duty. He has been identified as Clifford Welch, a career watchman at St. Luke’s Methodist primary school in Belize City.

St. Luke’s Methodist watchman stabbed while on duty
Dr. Louis Zabaneh is the People’s United Party (PUP) standard bearer for Sarawee, Dangriga and Hope Creek. In an internal convention today at Holy Ghost primary school Zabaneh grabbed 487 votes.

Blogs

San Pedro Lobsterfest 2018 or Eating 16 Different Dishes & Calling It An Early Night
Last night was one of the biggest evenings of the year on Ambergris Caye. The culmination of 7 days and night lobster activities. The 2018 San Pedro Lobster Festival. I got to the festival early on an absolutely GORGEOUS perfect late afternoon. Almost everything was almost set up. I was helping to judge the food again – an honor for sure. 16 delicious lobster dishes, 15 cocktails…it sounds like SO much fun…LIVING THE DREAM fun…until you hit number 9 or 10. You hit the lobster wall. Your vision starts to blur a bit…a heavy feeling sweeps over you…all the chatter at the judges table ceases. I didn’t last long. 16 tastes, 16 sheets filled out and I headed home. The festival was just building at that point…I could tell that it was going to be bigger and better than ever before.

First Ever wellness park was held in Corozal Round House
On Sunday June 24, 2017 the First Ever Wellness Park was held at Round House, Corozal. The chairs where filled by the audience by 3pm. And, shortly after 3pm, everyone waited for the ceremony to commence. Mistress of speech was made by Ms. Lourdess Heredia, National Anthem, Prayer pastor Ana McLaughlin, Welcome address Dr. Jorge Sejia, Remarks Mr. Charles Liu Ambassador and Plenipotentiary, Main Speaker Hon. Pablo Marin Minister of Health, vote of thanks Ms. Tricia Pere, Primary Care Coordinator, Symbolic cutting of Ribbon Ministers and invited guests. Each Minister gave there speech to the audience to inform the public about staying healthy, exercise, eat well in our daily life. This wellness Park outdoor gym will attract more people at this park in Corozal.

International Sources

Your Off-the-Grid Guide to Belize
Belize is the tropical vacation version of a perfect meal. Light appetizer, indulgent main course, decadent dessert and booze … a lot of booze. Its ethos is a conglomeration of all things equatorial, Caribbean, sabbatical and liberating. The best of everything sublime and dreamy with a heavy handed dash of adventure and exploration. It’s beautiful, slow paced, convenient, easy to navigate and charismatic. If you can stomach the puns like Unbelizeable it might just be your new favorite escape. Now here’s my beef with Belize. Most people rarely venture away from the postcard depicted all inclusive package deals to acquaint themselves with the authentic vivacity this small country holds within its borders. The two most visited spots are Ambergris Caye and the Blue Hole. Both are beautiful no doubt but Belize offers so many more extraordinary gems, gritty and delicate, that its worth stepping off the well trodden tourist trail to experience them. Your new path might involve a bus trip or two seated next to someone cradling a molting chicken in her lap while reggae blasts over the speakers, but that’s all part of the fun.

Using Sargassum Drifts As High-quality Compost
A study out of Texas State University tracks the degree to which massive drifts of sargassum can be converted into usable compost. Tina Waliczek, Jen Sembera, and Erica Meier dedicated months assembling data along Texas beach communities where the presence of sargassum drifts are considered an invasive eyesore and have calculable ill effects impacting that region’s tourism industry. The results of their study are illustrated in their article entitled “Composting As An Alternative Management Strategy For Sargassum Drifts On Coastlines” published in the February issue of HortTechnology. The study used 12 cubic yards of sargassum as feedstock mixed with food waste and wood chips to create 72 cubic yards of workable matter. From this, the authors derived 25 cubic yards of stabilized compost. From that, they were able to test the quality of the resulting compost, and discovered sargassum-based compost was of either equal or higher quality than traditional or commonly sought compost; therefore its use in this manner proves to be a sensible way to manage the presence of this invasive species.

Videos

Dylan Pacheco, 2.5min. Performing at the closing of the Belize international jazz festival at the memorial park in Belize City.

Interview with Pablo Marin Minister of Health, 5min. at the Wellness Park at Maimi Beach, Corozal.

First ever park wellness at Miami beach Corozal, 6min.

SCUBA and Norkle Silk Caye Belize, 1min. Silk Caye Wall, Silk Caye Canyons.

Glover Reef Belize, 1min. Off the Wall Aquarium.

Coastal Belize, 4min. Belize from the north in Ambergris to the south around Placencia in 5 days... Definitely worth the trip!

Lighthouse Reef Belize, 8.5min.

CROSSING THE BORDER | Belize to Guatemala, 6min.

Exploring Belize, Glover's Reef, 6min.

Inter-district Football Championship Game 1!! Progresso Vs FC Elite, 2.5hr.

June 24, 2018

Congratulations to Sandbar San Pedro for winning the top prize for best food and drink at this year's San Pedro Lobsterfest 2018!

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

Minister of National Emergency Management, Hon. Edmond Castro attends meeting on Disaster Risk Management in the Americas
Minister of National Emergency Management Hon. Edmond Castro is currently in Cartagena, Colombia where he attended the Sixth Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction in the Americas and the Third Meeting of Ministers and Authorities on the Implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015 – 2030. Coming out of the meeting, which wrapped up on June 22, 2018, is a declaration which recognizes the need to continue strengthening national and regional platforms organized by the region’s countries with the objective to make progress on disaster risk reduction; emphasizes the importance of increasing knowledge about the phenomena that cause the loss of lives and damage to infrastructure in our territories that do not recognize administrative, economic, social or environmental boundaries; reaffirms the multi-disciplinary nature that the disaster risk approach requires, and the impacts generated by the adverse events on the economy of the Americas and the Caribbean...

Wolfe’s Woofers: One Child
“That’s the first time I been to Punta Gorda in my thirty-two years and I born right here in Belize,” Vernon said. “It was good to see my old auntie, too.” “I’m glad you came with me,” I told him. When Vernon found out that I was driving to Punta Gorda to visit my friend John Grant for the weekend he asked for a ride which I gladly gave. “Can we stop for a beer?” he asked. “I sure am dry.” We stopped at a little cantina outside of Big Falls that was about half full of Kekchi Maya. After a couple of beers, the man on Vernon’s left said, “Hey, amigo. Let’s have a game of riddles. I ask you a riddle and if you can answer it I’ll buy you a drink. If you can’t, then you buy me one.”

PM Barrow discusses fuel prices, illegal Guatemalan incursions, and recent Cabinet reshuffle
Prime Minister Right Honorable Dean Barrow weighed in on issues affecting his people, namely the steady increase in fuel prices, the continuous Guatemalan illegal encroachment in southern Belize and the recent sudden Cabinet reshuffle at an event in Belize City on Tuesday, June 19th. The Head of Government spoke with optimism regarding the solutions for the mentioned matters and the recent changes in his Government. Barrow addressed the constant increase in fuel prices, which hit its 10th increase this year on June 8th. Following that increase, Government promised prices would go down at the next shipment. However, upon the arrival of said shipment, the price of Premium gas went up upsetting thousands of Belizeans.

Misc Belizean Sources

San Pedro Lobster Fest 2018
The week-long festivities ended with a bang on Saturday at San Pedro Lobster Fest. Complete with a Lobster food competition and Steelpan Band Concert, attendees reveled in all things lobster!

Placencia Lobster Festival
If you are a seafood lover and you are looking for unique ways to eat your way around Belize? You got to try one of Belize culinary festivals, the Placencia Lobster Festival.

Placencia Lobster Festival 2018
Placencia Lobster Festival Fishing Tournament kicked off this morning at 5AM! This marks the 5th Placencia Village Council Lobster Fest Fishing Tournament!

Ya'axché Conservation Trust providing financial management training
We are providing financial management training to 15 farmers from 6 Maya Golden Landscape communities. We began yesterday and today, Saturday, we are completing the training for women and men farmers who are supporting the protection of forests. Some of the topics covered in the introductory financial management training include book-keeping, financial control measures and budgeting. So far, we have provided 3 sets of financial management training under the EuropeAid project funded by the European Union.

Belize’s best known bartender, Jet, makes an appearance in the backdrop on Chelsea Handlers Netflix special

The Reporter

Pitbull reportedly attacks child
Reliable reports reaching the Reporter indicate that a pitbull dog attacked a child around 7:30 tonight in Belize City, abd that the child is now in a critical condition at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. The child is said to be a 2 year-old boy of Raccoon Street Extension, and the incident reportedly happened on Antelope Street in the same area.

Several robberies; one sexual assault involving minors reported
Police have reported a series of robberies and a sexual assault involving two minors that have occurred over the past week. The sexual assault reportedly happened on Wednesday around 2:30 a.m., and the victim and the accused are both 13 years old of Belize City. The girl told police in the presence of her mother that it was her adopted brother who sexually assaulted her. The most brazen of the robberies occurred in Belize City just up the street from the Queen Street police station after 3:30 on Thursday afternoon. The proprietor of Tony’s Store on Daly street was relieved of his wallet containing $500 and personal documents.

Breaking Belize News

Minister Edmund Castro attends Disaster Risk seminar in Cartagena, Colombia
Minister of National Emergency Management, Edmund Castro, recently attended the Sixth Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction in the Americas and the Third Meeting of Ministers and Authorities on the Implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 in Cartagena, Colombia from June 20-22.

Come to Cayo Music School’s concert!
The Cayo Music school will host a concert this Sunday in San Ignacio town. The event will take place at the San Ignacio resort hotel on Sunday, June 24, starting at 6:00 p.m.

Dr. Carla Barnett falls from grace?
United Democratic Party (UDP) minister, Dr. Carla Barnett, has long been touted, especially by Prime Minister Dean Barrow as a minister above reproach, one of the party’s most exemplary ministers. However, a trove of documents from the infamous “hotbed of corruption”, the Land’s Department, suggest that her abrupt removal from that ministry may be one of the last straws in her swift fall from grace.

Blogs

Last Call for Lobster Crawl
Yesterday was the last call for Lobster Crawl and my friend Denise was looking for someone to hit the two events with. We started out in the afternoon at the Palapa Bar and Grill to hear Roy Hale sing and catch up with a few friends we knew would be there. As it turned out we also got an unexpected surprise Coconut Leo time. We enjoyed hearing tales of his recent rockstar moment when he was invited to Mexico and got the royal treatment. Of course we clowned around and snapped a few pics too cause everyone loves seeing Leo. Palapa is always a great place to catch events, there is lots of room and great people watching. This was the second time I had heard Roy play there and knew he was worth seeing again. It was fun seeing people outside floating in the tubes and diving off the floating dock while enjoying the show. Perfect island-style way to spend a Friday afternoon.

International Sources

Maya sacred book “Chilam Balam Tekax” astrological predictions analyzed by INAH experts

Videos

San Pedro Lobster Festival 2018, 1.5min.

San Pedro Lobster Festival block party 2018, 8min.

Blue Hole Belize 2018, 6.5min.

Snorkeling at secret Beach in San Pedro Belize, 6min.

Tugboat Pulling Sugar Barges on the New River, Belize, 2.5min. A tugboat pulling four barges full of raw sugar on the New River, Orange Walk Town, Belize. Taken during the 2018 Ethnographic Field School in Belize

Carnival Dream Sept 2016 Belize, 27min.

(NAWL) Finals Game 2!! Jewel Fury vs Toledo Rumberas , 84min.

June 23, 2018

Gang Resistance Education And Training (G.R.E.A.T) Graduation, St. Alphonsus Primary School, Seine Bight Village, June 21st 2018

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

EU’s €72 Million Accompanying Measures for Sugar comes to an end
The European Union’s €72 Million euros in Accompanying Measures for Sugar (AMS) programme is coming to an end, EU representative Malgorzata Wasilewska announced at a press conference at the Best Western Biltmore Plaza Hotel in Belize City on the morning of Friday, June 15th. The EU has funded the AMS programme since 2008 to help Belize’s sugar industry become competitive in global markets, even though the World Trade Organization (WTO) had pressured the EU to eliminate its preferential tariffs and quotas for sugar by 2017. Sugar from former European colonies in Africa, the Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) regions had previously enjoyed favorable quotas and prices, which ended last year.

Do The Right Thing Pedestrian Crossing School Safety Program educates Ambergris Caye children
For the past two weeks, the Do The Right Thing Pedestrian Crossing (DTRTPC)-School Safety Program has been educating students of San Pedro Town on road traffic safety rules and regulations. The program is aimed at decreasing road traffic accidents among children. DTRTPC was formed in 2008 by Philip ‘Fawada’ Henry, who is a former traffic officer at the Belize City Council Traffic Department. “I started this program because I noticed most of the traffic accidents involving children were due to the lack of proper education,” he said. In addition to educating students about traffic rules and regulations, the program also targets social issues like human trafficking, cyberbullying and child abuse. In every visit to the schools, a drama play is introduced, entitled, “Family Friend is not your Friend”.

Ambergris Today

New Mangroves Regulations Emphasizes More On Conservation And Management
The new Mangroves Regulations place greater emphasis on the management and conservation of mangroves in critical areas on the mainland and on the cayes. They also recognize the significance of mangroves as an important feature of our coastline and cayes - the role they play in coastline protection, contribution to our economy, and their aesthetic, ecological and environmental values and functions - and incorporate these intrinsic values to inform the decision-making process for alteration requests. The new Regulations also provide for an improved application process for alteration permits, institute a new systematic fee system, and strengthen penalties and fines to deter illegal mangrove alteration.

Misc Belizean Sources

Ministry Of Public Service, Energy and Public Utilities annual award ceremony
On Thursday June 21st,2018, The Ministry Of Public Service, Energy and Public Utilities held its annual award ceremony. Public Officers who demonstrated a high levil of commitment throughout their career and made outstanding contribution to Government and people of this prestigious country, Belize. Congratulations to Mr. Howell Gillette , Sr. Superintendent of Police for his recognition in attaining the Innovation Award 2018.

Genetic Improvement in Sheep and Goat Project Facilitates Seed Teaching Workshop for Agriculture Extension Officers and Technicians
The Genetic Improvement in Sheep and Goat Project (Sheep Project) held its second seed teacher workshop from June 20th-22nd, 2018 at Central Farm, Cayo District. The Sheep Project, funded by Republic of China (Taiwan) and in cooperation with Government of Belize, was implemented since December 2015. Some of the main goals of the Sheep Project have been completed including the expansion of the infrastructure for the National Sheep and Goat Breeding Center housing facility and pasture and protein bank expansion at Livestock Section in Central Farm. The introduction of quality breeding stocks from the United States of America is still ongoing.

OUTDOOR WELLNESS PARK TO BE INAUGURATED
On Sunday, June 24, an Outdoor Wellness Park made possible by The Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Embassy of China/Taiwan will be inaugurated near the Round House at 3:00 p.m. The Wellness Park will be accessible to all citizens and is a plus to the many persons who exercise outdoor on a daily basis.

Hubert H Humphrey Fellowship Program
Looking for opportunities? You came to the right place! The Hubert H Humphrey Fellowship Program 2019-2020 is a one-year fellowship offered to mid-career professionals working at the policy level. Fellows are placed at leading American universities for ten-months to purse self-designed programs to include independent study, coursework, and an internship with an organization in their field of expertise. Deadline to submit application is August 10, 2018! Take advantage of this great opportunity!

Keith Prufer presenting the Bladen Paleoindian and Archaic Archaeological Project research to the Ya'axché Conservation Trust
Who co-manage the Balden Nature Reserve and provide rangers to assist with fieldwork.

San Ignacio/Santa Elena House of Culture host "Peini Soul" Art Exhibit
The National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) through the Museum of Belize and the San Ignacio Santa Elena House of Culture is excited to showcase the dynamic and inspiring art of Dr. Ludwig Palacio. "Peini Soul" will feature thirty-three (33) figurative and abstract paintings, sculptures and hand made crafts by Dr. Palacio exploring the universal themes of love, romance, peace, environment, culture and community. The "Peini Soul" exhibit at the San Ignacio Santa Elena House of Culture opens to the public at 7:00 PM on Monday June 25th, 2018.

Ministry of Health Issues Advisory on Consumption of Kellogg’s Cereal
The Ministry of Health advises the public to not consume any Kellogg’s Honey Smacks Cereal Products as it has been linked to a salmonella outbreak in the United States of America. On Friday, 15th June 2018, the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Public Health, US Food and Drug Administration and Regulatory Officials of the United States issued an advisory recommending that people do not eat Kellogg’s Honey Smacks Cereal Products of any size or with any “best if used by” date. The cereal product has been linked to a salmonella outbreak in 31 states across the United States. This announcement came a day after the Kellogg’s Company voluntarily recalled a specific batch as detailed below based on an initial report making the link.

Outstanding service to the Government and people of Belize
On Thursday, June 21st, the Ministry of Public Service honored six individuals for their outstanding service to the Government and people of Belize. Below are the recipients and their respective awards:

Wellness Park Inauguration in Corozal
June 24, 3pm at the Round House

MINISTER OF NATIONAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT HON. EDMOND CASTRO ATTENDS MEETING ON DISASTER RISK MANAGEMENT IN THE AMERICAS
Minister of National Emergency Management Hon. Edmond Castro is currently in Cartagena, Colombia where he attended the Sixth Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction in the Americas and the Third Meeting of Ministers and Authorities on the Implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015 - 2030. Coming out of the meeting, which wrapped up this afternoon, is a declaration which recognizes the need to continue strengthening national and regional platforms organized by the region’s countries with the objective to make progress on disaster risk reduction; emphasizes the importance of increasing knowledge about the phenomena that cause the loss of lives and damage to infrastructure in our territories that do not recognize administrative, economic, social or environmental boundaries..

Belly dance workshop in Corozal
A belly dance workshop in Corozal Town to learn the basics of bellydance from skilled dancer Maryam! Everyone is invited! this event is 25 dollars. clock Monday, June 25 at 4 PM at Core Fitness - Corozal

Placencia Lobster Festival 2018
Placencia Lobster Festival Fishing Tournament kicked off this morning at 5AM!

Taste of the Caribbean 2018

Calling all chefs and bartenders to participate in the Taste of Belize 2018!
For more information about Taste Of Belize 2018 kindly email tasteofbelize@belizetourismboard.org

BTB Border Kiosk Lobster Fest celebration

Come out and enjoy Dawn Drake & ZapOte!
Opening performances by Ras Indio and Stig Da Artist! Wednesday, June 27, 7:00 pm @ Mae Gordon Park in #Belmopan!

Channel 7

Dr. Carla Defends Against Nepotism Allegation
Today was Dr. Carla Barnett's last day in office at the Ministry of Natural Resources. On Monday, she swaps out with Minister Hugo Patt - by taking his ministry of Labour, Local Government and Rural Development - while he takes the reigns at Natural Resources. Today, she let us into her office on her last day there - where she told us how she feels on leaving after 18 months, and squarely answered questions about lands parceled out during her tenure to her siblings and to political friends. Here's her sit down with Jules Vasquez:.. Jules Vasquez, reporter: "It's your last day of work in this office." Dr. Carla Barnett, Last day as Min. of Natural Resources: "Yes it is and I am cleaning up." Jules Vasquez, reporter "It's been 16 months. How does it feel today?" Dr. Carla Barnett: "It doesn't feel any way. I am in transition and what I am trying to accomplish with Minister Hugo Patt is a smooth transition."

Another Dies On Motorbike
Last night we told you about two men on motorbike who died when they crashed into a truck on the side of the Placencia road. Well tonight there are three more dead to report - and all of them on motorbikes. The first happened last night at around 9:00 - exactly 24 hours after the double fatal on the Placencia road and less than three miles away just outside of Santa Cruz Village. Victor Manuel Martinez was on a motorbike heading back to his home in Steadfast Village after attending a relative's graduation. Martinez collided with a Toyota 4Runner driven by Can Jian Chen, who was going in the opposite direction.

Motorbike Collision Claims Two Lives
And, by midday today there would be two more dead - also on motorbike. Just before midday in Spanish Lookout, two men collided - one on a Honda Motor bike and the other on a scooter. 20 year old Roland Dyck was on the Honda when he collided with 17 year old Franz Martin on the West Scooter. They ended up 24 feet apart and both succumbed to their injuries.

Jane Doe Found On Hopkins Beach
Early this morning Hopkins Police were called out to the beach after receiving reports of a motionless body washed up on the shore. There they found the body of a clear complexion woman with long blonde hair, wearing a khaki blouse, short green pants and a blue necklace. After initial inspection of the scene the body was moved to an undisclosed location for post mortem. After examination the medical officer concluded that the cause of death was Asphyxiation due to drowning. Police have yet to identify woman and she doesn't match any missing persons report. They are asking for the public's assistance with any information that may lead to her identity. Anyone with information of a missing woman in the Hopkins area is asked to contact police at 543-7884 or 522-2022.

Case Closed For Krismar’s Appeal
The Court of Appeal ended its current 2-week session today by delivering a number of outstanding judgements including those for several criminal appeals. We start first with the their decision to uphold the conviction of Krismar Espinosa, who is currently serving out the rest of his 16 year sentence for manslaughter. Back in June of 2015, He was convicted in the northern Sessions of the Supreme Court for the killing of the 24 year-old mother, Rachel Chun. In September of 2007, Chun was believed to have been taken into an abandoned building in Santa Familia, where she was sexually assaulted, and bludgeoned to death with a cement block. She was found 4 days later, half naked and decomposing, and she was last seen with Espinosa in front of her house.

Sentence For Bruce Reduced: Murder To Manslaughter
The Court of Appeal also delivered a majority verdict for the convicted murderer Jason Bruce Lawrence, who has been serving a life sentence for killing his common-law wife. The Appeal Court has set aside his conviction for murder, and they have entered him into a guilty verdict for manslaughter instead. In May of 2014, Lawrence was convicted of murder for the stabbing death of his common-law wife, 40 year-old Mercedes Carrillo. On December 4, 2009, Carrillo was found dead inside their Burrell Boom home; she had been stabbed 5 times to the body. The couple got into an argument after Carillo received a phone call, and it escalated to the point where Lawrence attacked her.

Sentence Upheld, Appeal Dismissed
And the final appeal case we'll tell you about tonight is that of 30 year-old Tony Pasos, who was charged with murder, but convicted of manslaughter. In August 2016, Pasos stood trial for murder for the brutal stabbing death of 51 year-old Miguel Moses Medina, who was also known as "Chino". On December 31, 2014, at around 6 p.m., Medina was socializing with a group of men at a small house on Fonseca Street in Orange Walk Town. The men had some sort of disagreement which escalated to murder and Medina was stabbed 42 times. He bled to death inside the house. At the original Trial, Pasos was found not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter, and he was sentenced to 17 years in prison, minus the time spent on remand.

Land Clash With Compol and Villager
Tonight, there is a high-profile land dispute that continues play out in the Village of Lemonal, in the Belize River Valley. It involves the wife of the Commissioner of Police and a retired police officer who earns a living from pig farming. Tony Anthony, a lifelong resident of Lemonal, says that for almost 2 decades now, he's been working a half acre of land where he has assorted plants and a pigpen. He says he applied for title to own the land, a push which has not yet seen any measurable success. Enter Sharon Mae Whylie - Banner, the wife of Police Commissioner Allen Whylie, who asserts that she has title to this very same land that Anthony has been occupying. She insists that it belongs to her, and that Anthony has been squatting on it. Things came to a head earlier this week when police arrived to keep the peace. Because of their proximity to the ComPol and his wife, Anthony believes that there is an obvious police bias, and that the officers are being used to unfairly keep him off this land that he has invested on.

Some Background To Mob Murder In Silk Grass
Yesterday we told you about a mob murder in the Stann Creek district. According to reports, Silk Grass resident Rene Godoy sexually assaulted and chopped a father and daughter in their Silk Grass home. The commotion caught the attention of the neighbors who quickly formed a mob and attacked Godoy. In an attempt to escape Godoy climbed to the second floor of the home, but was subdued by the mob, severely beaten and eventually saved by police - only to die at the Southern Regional Hospital. Today Godoy's brother, Moeses - who also lives in Silk Grass, told us about how he found out about the incident and how he responded... Voice of: Moeses Godoy- Brother of the Deceased: "Around 2:30 I saw my phone had like 8 or 10 calls. So, I got frightened and so I told my lady that there was so much call, let's see what happened. Then I answered the last two calls..."

Chamber Challenges Fuel Tax, PM Scoffs
The Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry has written to the Prime Minister asking for a meeting to discuss lowering fuel prices. The Prime Minister has written back saying, he's doesn't see a solution, but he is still open to a meeting. In a letter dated June 14, 2018, PM Barrow wrote to Nikita Usher, the Chamber President, responding to their letter. The Prime Minister says, quote, "After asserting that there is room for GOB to reduce its current excise tax on fuel, you end with a request for a meeting to discuss solutions that would 'allow for some relief to the private sector, without eroding the Government's revenue base.'" End quote.

They Stole Tony’s Wallet
Last night we told you about the broad daylight robbery at Tony's Store on Daly Street in Belize City. Tonight, police have shared more details. It happened just before 4:00 pm when four persons dressed in what looked like high school uniforms stormed into the store - and one of then with a gun stole the owner Tony Shen's wallet. It contained five hundred dollars. Police have not made any arrests in this latest holdup of a Northside business.

Senior Citizen Foils “Play-Play” Police Plot
And while those robbers were dressed like students, two robbers who went to jack a 78 year old at his Lord's Bank home were dressed like police! 78-year-old Allan McKoy told police that last Friday night he was at his home on Old Well Road when two men came and knocked on his door pretending to be police officers. One was dressed in the standard police uniform, the other posed as a CIB officer. They told the elderly man that they had a warrant to search his home. But McKoy wasn't born yesterday, and he asked them to see the search warrant, and then told them he will call the Ladyville Police to cross check. That's when both men ran off.

Kellogs Honey Smacks Of Salmonella
If Kellogs Honey Smacks is your breakfast cereal of choice, you need to take a break and throw out whatever amount you have stored up. That's because the Ministry of Health warns that Honey Smacks has been linked to a salmonella outbreak in the US. One week ago, the Centres for Disease Control issued an advisory recommending that people do not eat Kellogg's Honey Smacks Cereal Products of any size or with any "best if used by" date.

Honoring Years Of Service
Working in the Public Service can be thankless job - where public perception stereotypes the government worker as inefficient, or just plain lazy. And then, some Government Department's have developed a reputation for corruption. But, what about those diligent and honest public officers who work with pride and honesty, and go above and beyond the call of duty? Well, the Ministry of Public Service put together 2 separate award ceremonies to honor those Government employees with the longest tenure of service to the country. The second of those 2 ceremonies was held yesterday in San Ignacio, and here's what the main speakers had to say to those public officers being recognized for their stellar performance:

Pair of Southern Robberies
There are two hold-ups to report from the south. 22 year old tour guide Jose Hernandez told police that early last Saturday he was socializing at Whispering Pines Restaurant and Bar in Silk Grass Village. He went into the restroom where he was attacked by two men - one held him up with a gun and stole over a thousand dollars in cash from him. But, he put up a fight and the robber's gun fell on the ground, discharging a live round in the process. No one was hurt, but the robbers ran off and police collected the weapon. In another case - this one in Independence - 65 year old Modesto Bol was at home on Tuesday night at 11:00 when someone called him outside.

Summer Camp For The Studious
The last thing kids want to do or think about is school work on their summer break, but for those super studious kids who can't get enough of studying, you can sign up for the Growing the Future Projects summer camp. Director Peter Lacey told us more yesterday. And you can sign up at those 4 locations starting next Thursday the 28th in Belmopan. Registration for Belize City, San Ignacio and Dangriga opens next Friday the 29th. At all locations it will be from 9 in the morning to 5 in the evening.

Channel 5

Land Grab – Business as Usual at the Ministry of Natural Resources
A trove of documents has been made available to News Five that show that it was business as usual at the Ministry of Natural Resources, famously known as the ‘hot [...]

Body of a Woman Washes Up on a Beach in Hopkins Village
The body of a visitor to the village of Hopkins was found on the beach this morning. There is no identification nor was she a guest at any hotel in [...]

2 Mennonite Motorists Perish in a Head-On Collision in Spanish Lookout
Another deadly collision, this time in the Spanish Lookout community, has claimed the lives of one more pair of motorists. It is the second fatal pileup within forty-eight hours, involving [...]

Tony’s Store in Belize City Targeted by Robbers Dressed as Students
On Tuesday afternoon, a brazen robber was caught while attempting to flee from the scene of a jacking at DK Supermarket. The culprit made off with a bottle of top-shelf [...]

Was an Angry Mob Responsible for the Killing of Rene Godoy?
Police say they are still investigating the death of Rene Godoy in Silk Grass Village. So far no one has been detained for the beating that ended Godoy’s life. Godoy, [...]

PM Tells Chamber No Can Do on Lowering High Fuel Taxes
Prime Minister Dean Barrow has written a terse letter to the Chamber of Commerce in response to their concerns on the crippling fuel prices. He tells them that there is [...]

Lemonal Land Dispute, a Case of Squatting
The ongoing land dispute in Lemonal Village, between the Banner and Anthony families, brings into sharp focus the issue of squatting, as well as a need for owners to possess [...]

Village Chairman Trying to Mediate Lemonal Dispute
In speaking with News Five on Thursday, the village chairman emphasized a need for residents to follow the procedures that have been set out for land acquisition. The feud, he [...]

Court of Appeal Hands Down Decision in 3 Cases
The Belize Court of Appeal concluded its sitting today with a number of judgements. The appeal of Jason Bruce Lawrence, who was facing a life sentence for a murder conviction, [...]

Meet Erica Jang, P.U.P. Standard Bearer Hopeful for Dangriga
On Sunday, the People’s United Party will be holding its convention to select the standard bearer in Dangriga. The race started out with six persons, but historian Joseph Sampson has [...]

Recommendations to Curb Guatemalan Incursions in the South
On Thursday night you heard Cristina Coc of the Maya Leaders Alliance outline growing Guatemalan incursions and the impacts on the bordering Mayan communities. On Wednesday, the Ministry of National [...]

U.S. Immigration Strategy under Widespread Condemnation
More than two thousand three hundred children have been separated from their parents after crossing the southern U.S. border since May. According to the Department of Homeland Security, it is [...]

The Hustle and Bustle of the Entertainment Strip on Newtown Barracks
The Newtown Barracks area in the city has flourished into our own entertainment strip. Restaurants, bars, clubs, casinos, call centres as well as the popular B.T.L. Park can all be [...]

CitCo Deputy Mayor Clarifies Trade License for Apex
There a resolution to a statement between the City and Government for the use of the new Civic Center as the Emergency Operating Center of City Hall in case a [...]

When Completed, Renovated Commercial Center to Become the New City Hall
For some time it has been an eyesore in downtown Albert Street in Belize City, but the commercial centre near Market Square is expected to be the new home of [...]

Belize International Jazz Festival Features Canatus Sax Quintet of Cuba
The Belize International Jazz Festival kicked off last week and will wrap up on Sunday. As a part of the week long festivities, on Thursday visiting artist Carlos Rafael Barban [...]

LOVE FM

Belize commemorates World Refugee Day
At the end of 2017 it is estimated that 68.5 million people were displaced worldwide. Refugees worldwide flee their home countries due to persecution, conflict, or generalized violence. In February, fifteen persons were granted refugee status in Belize. This is the first time in more than twenty years that a group of persons has been …

Immigration Minister updates on department’s split
In March government successfully amended the Immigration, Belizean Nationality, and Passports Acts. The aim was to split the Immigration Department into two, one section will be responsible for granting nationality and passport, while the remaining half will deal with immigration and border management. Since the amendment, the Ministry has been steadily implementing the change. Minister …

Minister Beverly Williams comments on USA’s immigration controversy
On Wednesday US President Donald Trump signed an executive order to stop the separation of migrant families who have attempted to cross the border into the United States of America. The executive order directed the Homeland Security Department to “maintain custody of alien families” while their cases move through the immigration system, “to the extent permitted …

Minister Beverly Williams says ‘yes’ to the ICJ
Cabinet Minister Beverly Williams says she will vote ‘yes’ to take the Belize Guatemala dispute to the International Court of Justice. In less than a year, Minister Williams and other eligible voters will decide whether to take the claim to the ICJ. The Government is expected to ramp up its impartial education campaign with the …

Police investigating immigration officer
Two months ago we told you about the two Nepalese who arrived in Belize through the Phillip Goldson International Airport on a Copa flight. Those two persons were deemed as potential security risk however they still managed to set foot in Belize. An investigation into the matter was immediately launched and three persons from the …

Head on collision kills two motorcyclists in Spanish Lookout
Two persons lost their lives in a head on collision this morning in Spanish Lookout. They are 20-year-old Roland Dyck and 17-year-old Franz Martin, both of Spanish Lookout. Police report that Dyck was on a motorcycle traveling on Bee Lane heading in a southerly direction. Between Routes ten and twenty, Dyck collided head on with …

13-year-old girls report rape and sexual assault
A thirteen year old has reported being raped. The child, along with her mother told police that on Friday June 15, she was at home where, between one and three o’clock in the afternoon, a male person raped her. Meanwhile another thirteen year old girl, this time of Belize City, has reported to police that …

Body of unidentified woman washes up on Hopkins beach
Police have still not identified the body of a woman that was found this morning on a beach in Hopkins Village. The body was in an advanced state of decomposition. A post mortem conducted on the body certified the cause of death as drowning. Due to the state of the body, it was buried following …

Businessman loses property to arsonists
Corozal police are investigating a case of arson that happened this week. On Wednesday, 52-year-old businessman Sunil Talreja told police that he was awakened from his sleep around 2:30 that morning by someone who was calling his name. He got up and saw four men he recognized standing at his front gate. He told police …

PlusTV

Two die in RTA on Placencia Road
Two Motorcyclists lost their lives on the Placencia road early this morning after they both ran into the rear of a parked truck. Reports are that a truck with mechanical issues was parked on the side of the road but it had no lights or caution for motorists. As a result, the two men ran into the par...

Belmopan Police officer served with NIP in Fatal RTA in PG
On Tuesday we told you that a 69 year old Punta Gorda man was knocked down and killed by a Belmopan Police Corporal driving a F150 Police Mobile. Information was still scanty at the time as it relates to the destination of the Police Mobile and what led to the officers knocking down Bahadur. This a...

Land dispute in Lemonal between police families
There is a land dispute issue brewing in the village of Lemonal between two family members. The dispute is between ex-police Corporal Tony Anthony and the Commissioner of Police’s Wife, Sharon Whylie. The dispute is over a one point two acre of land that Anthony claims he has been farming and devel...

No suspects in Cash Express Robbery
Last night we told you about an armed robbery in San Pedro at the Insurance Corporation of Belize and Nation Wide Cash Express at the Corner of Tarpon Street and Pescador Drive. The culprit was able to escape with approximately eight thousand dollars from the business. ASP Myvett gave an official re...

National Security officials meet with Mayan leaders
Hon. John Saldivar, Minister of National Security, visited the Dolores Village in Southern Belize to meet with Mayan Leaders to discuss border incursion concerns. The villages of Otoxha and Dolores have been asking for BDF assistance in clearing the border between Guatemala and Belize. In late May,...

Church leaders speak out against Gay Pride Flag at US Embassy
The United States Embassy in Belize held a flag raising ceremony yesterday in honor of Pride Month. An LGBTQ Flag can now be seen flying below the U.S. flag on the U.S. Embassy in Belmopan. Pride month is not a celebration customary to Belize. However, the flag was raised in honor of the Gay right m...

13 year old alleges rape at her home
A thirteen year old minor says she was raped at her home in the Belize District. According to police reports, on June 16th, the female minor, accompanied by her mother, reported to police that on Friday 15th June, 2018 between 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m., while at home , a male person had sexual inter...

Arson in Corozal
Corozal police are investigating a case of arson. On Wednesday June 20th, 52 year old Sunil Talreja, an Indian Businessman of Progresso Village, was sleeping when he was awakened by someone calling his name. Upon checking, he saw four known male persons standing in front of his gate, and one of the male person lit a thatched structure on fire...

ALLEGED SILK GRASS HOME INVADER BEATEN TO DEATH BY VILLAGERS
An alleged home invader died outside the Southern Regional Hospital after he was beaten by Villagers in Silk Grass Village, Stann Creek 30-year-old Salvadoran National Renee Godoy allegedly tried to break into a home in Silk Grass Village sometime around 1 a.m this morning when villagers caught him and took justice into their own hands...

Anti Drug Operations yield drug and ammunition discoveries
On June 14th, Police conducted an Anti- Drug Operation in Camalote village. They searched an abandoned lot on an unknown street which lead to the discovery of a plastic bag containing 927 grams of cannabis. No one was in the immediate area at thee time of the discovery and so it was deposited as fo...

OC Howell Gillett receives Public Service awards
Superintendent Howell Gillett was awarded today with the Public Service Award of Innovation for his leadership style that he has employed in the Police Department. Gillett uses community based efforts to address the needs of at risk children and youth. He has spearheaded several initiatives aimed at...

Amandala

Artists to protest Israeli training of Belize police
A group which calls itself “Artists for Peace and Commonsense” has written to Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow and other Belizean leaders, expressing their shock that government has authorized the Israelis to carry out a course called “Police and Community”. The group is planning to lead a protest in Belmopan on Tuesday morning, June 26, in front of the National Police Academy, and is calling on all like-minded citizens “to register our most energetic protest…” The letter from “Artists for Peace and Commonsense” said, “When even the USA banned the sale of arms to the Guatemalan regimes in 1975, Israel agreed to provide arms, heavy weapons, aircraft and a munitions factory along with training and intelligence-gathering technology.

Fake students rob Tony’s Store on Daly Street
A cashier at Tony’s Store, located on Daly Street, was held up and robbed by three teenagers dressed in what looked like school uniforms at about 3:30 this afternoon. After the teenagers entered the store, one of them pointed a gun at the cashier and demanded money. A worker said that two of the robbers stayed in the aisle and one of them had a gun. No shots were fired, but the thieves got away with an undisclosed sum of money.

Dwayne Davis, 37, gets 14 years for manslaughter
Dwayne Davis, 37, who was initially charged with the June 17, 2012 murder of Guatemalan medical doctor Ivan Garcia, but pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter, was sentenced to 14 years in prison this afternoon by Supreme Court Justice, Adolph Lucas. In handing down the sentence, Justice Lucas told the court that he had researched the sentencing range for persons charged with murder, but convicted of manslaughter, and that the general range of prison sentencing is 20 years.

Accused murderer given bail after being remanded for over 7 years
Matthew Moore, 27, has been on remand since March 2011 for the murder of Andrew Moses, 29, which occurred on March 10 of that same year. Reports were that Moses was on his way from work when he was chased by an armed man down Kraal Road, from the direction of Caesar Ridge Road, and that his attacker eventually caught up with him at the corner of Kraal Road and Ross Pen Road and shot him 8 times in the left side of the chest, abdomen, and leg.

Intoxicated man chops two men and tries to sexually assault a woman
An intoxicated man chopped two men in Silk Grass, tried to sexually assault a woman, and then died at the Southern Regional Hospital after being arrested by police. Police said that they were told at around one this morning about an intoxicated machete-man who was causing trouble in the village. When they arrived at the village, they saw Rene Godoy, 30, a Salvadoran construction worker, on the second-story balcony of a building in the village, to which he had ascended after villagers reportedly chased him.

Over 1,000 students graduate from UB
The University of Belize (UB), which opened its doors on August 1, 2000, held its graduation ceremony at the newly built Civic Center in Belize City, on Saturday, June 16. The fully air-conditioned building was reportedly the only air-conditioned structure that could house the 1,059 graduates who successfully completed their academic coursework at the university, as well as their families, faculty of the university and other guests. In the past, UB held graduation ceremonies in February for those who completed their programs in December, and another ceremony in June for those who finished at that time of year. However, this year, they held one massive ceremony for all their graduates.

Cricket update
Greetings from the Belize National Cricket Association (BNCA)! Two tie-breaker matches were played on Saturday, June 16, to determine playoff positions in the Sir Barry Bowen/Harrison Parks National Cricket Competition 2018. I guess it’s true what they say – the third time is the charm, as both Summer Fever and Police were able to win over teams who beat them twice in the regular competition. The results of these matches are as follows: Summer Fever won over Rural Mix with a score of 135 to 133, with 7 spare wickets. For Rural Mix, Alwayne Hendy top scored with 32 runs, and Randy Rhaburn took two wickets.

Belikin 8-Ball Billiards Tournament in Dangriga
The Stann Creek Billiards Association (SCBA) presents the weekend results (June 15–17) for games played in the Belikin 8-Ball Tournament in Dangriga: On Friday, June 15, Team Snipers of Aba Isieni Cool Spot saw their second loss of the tournament against the defending champs, Big Mango Shattaz, 3-2. Santa Cruz Lone Stars defeated Vipers of Aba Isieni Cool Spot, 5–0. And Pomona Intimidators defeated Aqua-Culture Boys, 3-2.

Rural North football Week 3 results, schedule
Burrell Boom Village was the venue for Week 3 games in the Belize Rural North Football Tournament for the Edmond “Clear the Land” Castro Cup 2018. Below are the results: In the U-16 opener, Carlston FC dropped K.C. Strikers, 3-0, on 2 goals by Ceon Augustine (52’ & 60’) and the other by Tasheed Henry (67’). In game 2 (Senior), Sandhill New Site Warriors won by default (3-0) over Lake Rising Stars, who were a no-show.

World Cup 2018 Russia Group Phase results, schedule
World Cup 2018 Russia kicked off on Thursday, June 14. Below are the results of games played so far, and the schedule for another week of upcoming games. Group Phase games results, schedule (local time): Thurs. June 14 – (A) Russia 5:0 Saudi Arabia. Fri. June 15 – (A) Egypt 0:1 Uruguay; (B) Morocco 0:1 IR Iran; (B) Portugal 3:3 Spain. Sat. June 16 – (C) France 2:1 Australia; (D) Argentina 1:1 Iceland; (C) Peru 0:1 Denmark; (D) Croatia 2:0 Nigeria.

The evidence of the gravitas
Apart from his personal feelings and issues, the Prime Minister of Belize, Right Hon. Dean O. Barrow, was under immediate and increasing pressure as Leader of the ruling United Democratic Party (UDP), to do something about Kremandala. The pressure was coming from his area representatives and standard bearers, especially on the Southside of Belize City, in the wake of the Opposition People’s United Party’s (PUP) stunning victory in the Belize City Council election of March this year. Belize City’s Southside had been the UDP’s political stronghold at least from when the UDP took back the City Council from the PUP in 2006. Huge margins of UDP victory in the Queen’s Square, Mesopotamia, Port Loyola, and Collet constituencies set a trend for the next three CitCo elections (2009, 2012, and 2015) where PUP victories in Northside constituencies such as Fort George and Freetown came a long way from neutralizing the UDP’s Southside superiority.

Nattering nabobs of negativity …
Dear Editor, If Belizeans are fool enough to go to the ICJ, they deserve to lose their country. I know Mr. Harry Lawrence of The Reporter is all for appeasing the Guatemalan tyrants; so is the traitorous Foreign Minister, and those “nattering nabobs of negativity” in the Dean Barrow government. That pack of wimps reminds me of Neville Chamberlain, at Munich, 1938, eager to appease Adolf Hitler. If Belize “wins” at court, Guatemala will simply ignore it; if Belize loses, we all know what that means.

Henry Young, Sr., writes
Henry Young, Sr. Bird’s Isle Dear Editor Amandala, The recent book by Jeremy Enriquez on the history of his ancestor’s contribution to education in the early part of the last century should be required reading. Especially for teachers who can now go to school in an air-conditioned SUV.

A GoB blow for PRIVATIZATION
On Wednesday, the PM said that BTL’s decision to stop advertising in the Amandala had nothing to do with his party’s political ambitions, only to do with marketing. What a breath of fresh air the move wasn’t “political sinister”! Fortunately this one, it’s just about a product going to market. But bah, the owners are suspect. Discussing the Guardian and the Amandala in the same breath is like an American shoe company choosing JR Smith’s brand over Lebron’s. Really, why would a business in a COMPETITIVE world decide it does not need the support of the people who support the single business in the country that consistently sacrifices financial gain to give the people a sincere view of the world in which we live?

TURNING YOUR BACK ON YOUR OWN PEOPLE!
It has been a political pattern now in Belize over the last decade that both political parties in Belize have come to the point of turning their backs on their own people, the Belizean immigrant abroad. Both the People’s United Party (PUP) governments under the Price administration and its successor, the Musa administration; as well as the United Democratic (UDP) governments under the Esquivel administration and its successor, the Barrow administration, have turned their backs on their own Belizean people in the diaspora.

Andrew Willoughby, 35, found guilty of the murder of Daniel Matura
A look of disappointment appeared on the face of Andrew Willoughby, 35, when Madam Justice Marilyn Williams ruled today that he was guilty of the murder of Daniel Matura, 11, who was shot and killed between 8 and 8:30 a.m. on May 21, 2012. His sentencing date is July 16. It was a trial without a jury. Matura, a student of St. John Vianney Primary School, was shot while he was running across Central American Boulevard near his home, which is located almost opposite Belizean Drug Store.

No charges for attempt to rob businessman on King Street
Charges will not be brought against a thief who tried to rob a businessman on King Street at about 10:00 last Wednesday morning. The businessman declined to press charges and did not want to give a statement. Police said that they could not charge the thief without a complainant. Therefore, the robber had to be released from custody.

Police vehicle fatally hits Eldridge man on bicycle
Yesterday morning around 7:30 a.m., a 68-year-old man, Selvin Bahadur, was hit by a vehicle while he was riding his bicycle on the San Antonio Road. The vehicle which hit him was a government-issued F-150 pickup, the type driven by the police. Police have confirmed that indeed, Corporal Alexander Salam, 40, from the Belmopan Police Station, was behind the wheel of the pickup which hit Bahadur, a resident of Eldridge in the Toledo District, and killed him.

BDF steps up to ward off incursions into Otoxcha and other villages
Since April, Guatemalan farmers residing along the southern border have been making a series of aggressive incursions into Belize to clear lands in Otoxcha and surrounding villages, to make plantations. Some Guatemalan farmers have threatened to kill the villagers if they reported their activities to the police. However, the alcaldes of the affected villages alerted the authorities, and the soldiers of the Belize Defence Force (BDF) have started to conduct frequent patrols in the villages to discourage other Guatemalans from coming to the area.

The Reporter

Second fatal accident reported in southern Belize
Another traffic accident in southern Belize on Thursday night has claimed a life. It happened sometime after 8:00 in, Santa Cruz village between miles 23 and 24 on the Southern Highway and involved a blue Toyota 4Runner and a blue motorcycle. Police say the vehicle […]

Police charge truck driver for Thursday night’s double fatality in southern Belize
Police have arrested and charged Edwin Rene Montoya, 35, with two counts of ‘causing death by careless conduct’ for last night’s traffic accident that claimed the lives of two motorcyclists in southern Belize. The truck driver of Santa Cruz village, Stann Creek had experienced mechanical […]

Motorcycles crash in Spanish Lookout; both drivers dead
Two young men are dead after the motorcycles they were driving crashed head on into each other this morning in Spanish Lookout, Cayo. Police say the mishap occurred sometime after 11:00 a.m., on Bee Lane, between Route 10 and Route 20 and claimed the lives […]

Price of gas goes up again
Despite the government’s recent promise that gas prices would lower this week, the first price adjustment for the week of June 17-23 saw the price of Premium going even closer towards $12 per gallon. GOB announced, through the Belize Bureau of Standards on Monday, that effective Tuesday […]

Driving to Mexico? Insurance now mandatory
Since last Friday, Belizean drivers entering Mexico have had to take out third party insurance policies for the duration of their trip there. This requirement has been in the making for at least three years, but it has become mandatory and enforceable by Mexican law. […]

Tropic Air and Copa now offering joint service to Panama
Belizeans or tourists who want to travel to Latin America can now do so much more easily through an interline agreement between Tropic Air and Copa Airlines. This agreement allows the airlines to offer their customers connecting flights on one ticket and receive boarding passes […]

NICH hosts collectors workshop
The National Institute of Culture and History (NICH), this week, assembled around 25 history collectors to a workshop geared at teaching them how to properly store their collections and be ready in times of disaster. NICH hosted the three-day training from June 18-20 through the Museum of […]

Police need help in identifying body of woman
Police need assistance in identifying the body of a female that was discovered around 6:00 this morning in Hopkins village, Stann Creek. The corpse was found on the beach dressed in a khaki blouse, green short pants and a waist band. The body is of […]

Price control of fuel puts the ball in GOB’s court
Volatile pump prices have long been a source of economic pain and controversy in a global market where so much is beyond the control of countries that do not produce enough oil to supply their populace. In the case of Belize, the 2005 oil discovery […]

Taiwan’s allies dwindling, but ties with Belize remain strong
Taiwan has lost two more of its diplomatic allies in recent weeks—one in the Caribbean and another in Africa—and Belize’s impeding presidency of the Central American Integration System (SICA), of which Taiwan has been an observer for over a decade, could prove an important juncture […]

Reality Check: Caribbean Public Procurement Systems Reform
By John Primo (independent Procurement Consultant) Caribbean governments spend a significant portion of their GDP (approximately 10 – 15%) on public procurement. Depending on where you are living, this translates into millions or even billions of tax payer dollars and a high degree of oversight is required to be exercised […]

Buy Local, Build Local
Last Saturday, June 16th, 2018, the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) launched its first “Made in Belize Expo”. Unlike the “Made in Belize” Expo’s predecessors, this latest addition’s features are eponymously reflected in its title. That is, only goods or services that are made and provided by local […]

Eldery Toledo resident robbed in home invasion
An elderly missionary living on the San Antonio Road in Toledo was held up and robbed at gunpoint during a home invasion last Thursday night. Tom McKinney, 76, of mile 15 on the San Antonio road reported to police that around 1:30 a.m. on June 14th, while […]

Mother of three killed in Benque road accident
A young woman from Benque Viejo town, Neidy Noeli Cifuentes, 27, died from injuries sustained in a traffic accident which happened between miles 71 and 72 on the Benque Viejo Road around 12:00 p.m. on Sunday. Two other passengers traveling with Cifuentes at the time, including a […]

Cop dies on police compound from heart complications
Police constable Mitchell Cob was found dead behind the Corozal police station on Monday night by officers on duty. His autopsy has since revealed he died of natural causes. According to police, Cob’s autopsy revealed he died due to complications from heart disease. Cob’s motionless body was […]

Police officer to be charged for death of elderly PG man
A police officer attached to the Belmopan police station has been issued a Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) for fatally wounding an elderly Elridgevile resident in a traffic accident on Tuesday morning. PC Alexander Salam, 40, will be charged for causing the death of fish vendor, Selvin […]

Editorial
After some fierce and heated debate this week, the Canadian Senate approved legislation which will make it legal for everybody above 19 years to buy and use marijuana. The final vote was 52-29. Under the new law Canadians will be able to own and carry up to 30 grams of […]

Mob beats crazed man to death!
Assault and attempted rape cause uproar Staff Reporter Honduran national and resident of Silk Grass village, Stann Creek, Rene Godoy, is dead following a beating he sustained at the hands of an angry mob early Thursday morning, after he allegedly tried to rape a woman and injured […]

Corozal businessman kidnapped for $1 million ransom
A Corozal businessman from San Narciso village, Omero Campos, 47, was reportedly abducted from his farm near the Mexican border on Sunday and his kidnappers have demanded a $1 million ransom for his return. Police confirmed on Thursday that Campos, who had previously been reported […]

GOB faces another lawsuit
The government of Belize is again faced with a multi-million dollar lawsuit over the nationalization of the International Merchant Marine Registry of Belize (IMMARBE) and the International Business Companies (IBC) registry. GOB headed to the Court of Appeal this week for the second round of […]

Six-year-old girl shot dead in San Pedro; police charge stepfather
Six year-old Daisy Acevedo was in a room at her house in the DFC area of San Pedro town, along with her nine year-old brother and two year-old sister sometime after 7:00 on Monday morning when she was fatally shot. The little girl and her […]

ICB San Pedro branch robbed of $8,000
The Insurance Corporation of Belize branch in San Pedro was robbed of approximately $8,000 cash on Tuesday morning, after an armed bandit entered the office and held up the cashier at gun point. The culprit, who wore a rag on his head to conceal his […]

Breaking Belize News

Two motorcycle riders collide and die in Spanish Lookout
Police are investigating a road traffic accident that claimed the lives of two men today. Around 11:55 […]

Ministry of Health advises to not eat Kellogg’s Cereal
The Ministry of Health today issued an advisory to the public to not consume any Kellogg’s […]

Beltraide hosts women entrepreneur training
BELTRAIDE, through its SBDC Belize Unit, with funding from the Centro Regional de Promocion de la MIPYME (CENPROMYPE) […]

San Pedro resident arrested and charged for cocaine trafficking
Yesterday around 3:45 p.m. while conducting mobile patrol on Crocodile street in San Pedro Town, police searched John […]

US Embassy announces Dawn Drake & ZapOte tour in Belize
Today, the United States Embassy in Belize announced the visit of the music group Dawn Drake […]

Independence villager attacked and robbed for riffle
A man from Independence village, Modesto Bol, 65, reported to police that on Tuesday he was […]

Man robbed in bathroom at bar in Silk Grass
A tour guide from Franks Eddy village, Jose Hernandez, reported to police that on Saturday while […]

Belize city businessman robbed in broad daylight
Yesterday Belize city businessman Tony Shen, 57, owner of Tony’s Store on Daly Street reported to […]

Man left stranded on highway by car thieves
Akeem Welch, 29, of Belize city, reported that on Monday around 12:10 p.m., while parked in a car near […]

Minor sexually assaulted by adopted brother
On Wednesday, a 13-year old female minor accompanied by her mother, both of a Belize City […]

LGBTI community celebrates OAS resolution
The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Transsexuals,Travestis and Intersex (LGBTTTI) community is celebrating the recent resolution passed […]

Woman’s body found in Hopkins
According to reports, this morning a woman’s body was found on the beach in Hopkins […]

San Ignacio/Santa Elena House of Culture host “Peini Soul” Art Exhibit
The National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) through the Museum of Belize and the […]

Mayan leaders and government meet to discuss incursions into Belizean land
On June 20, Mayan leaders of the Belize border villages with Guatemala held a meeting with […]

Five days later, Homero Campos still missing
It has now been five days since San Narciso businessman, Homero Campos, 43, went missing. On […]

5 UB students awarded bursaries
Yesterday, the University of Belize awarded bursaries to 5 students who are currently pursuing their Bachelor […]

Thieves wore high school uniforms to rob Belize City store
Yesterday evening, Tony’s Store was targeted by robbers on the north side of Belize City. According […]

22 Youths graduate from Belize Youth Challenge Programme
The Belize Youth Challenge Programme (BYC) yesterday marked the closure of its first intake with a […]

Blogs

Belize’s 4th International Jazz Festival is Bigger and Better!
The Belize International Jazz Festival has gone from strength to strength with each year’s edition, and this year’s edition has set a new bar, with a total of 575 artists performing over eight days of concerts. From Guantanamo, Cuba came the sax quintet Canatus, which opened the festival with a brunch concert on Father’s Day at the Radisson. Of course they included their interpretation of the popular classic: “Guantanamera”! They featured Randi Dayan Amador Verdecia on the baritone saxophone, group director Rene Alvarez Fonseca and Abel Espinosa Santiesteban on tenor sax, Maikol Armando Maza Brooks on alto sax, and Adonis Fernández Mulen on soprano and Alto sax. Canatus were joined by the Mexican trio los Tres Tristes Tangos in a welcome concert at the Institute of Mexico in Belize City on Monday evening, June 18. The Mexican trio featured Daniel Paz on clarinet, Silvestre Villarruel on accordion and keyboards and Jorge Gonzalez on the double bass.

All You Can Eat and Mexican Wrestling? Count Me in!
That is exactly what I did. I counted myself and a plus 1 in on my friend Aimee’s invitation to join her 6:00 pm reservation at Jyoto Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar. For those who love Toshiya’s masterful culinary skills, this was a bit of a talk of the town moment. Afterall who would not feel like they had died and gone to heaven with an incredible all you can eat a selection of over 20 kinds of Japanese dishes. Regular and Spicy Gyoza Dumplings, Kakuni (Pork Belly), Salmon and Tuna Sashimi, California Rolls, Dragon Rolls, Edamame, a few salad options, fresh mango slices and so much more as you will see in pictures below.

International Sources

Guatemala: Natural and political volcanoes erupt
Thousands of Indigenous men and women marched on June 12 to the capital of Guatemala, organizing themselves into four columns to enter Central Park. They came in response to a call by the Committee for Peasant Development (CODECA) for a national strike to demand justice in the deaths of several human rights defenders from that organization. In the last month, five members of CODECA and several other peasant leaders not part of the organization have been murdered. This action took place during a dangerous period in Guatemala, as the volcanoes of Pacaya, Santiago and Fuego are currently active. Fuego has already had several eruptions in recent weeks that devastated nearby villages and exacerbated the country’s political crisis.

Belize Sugar production seen hardly changed
The 2017/18 crushing season is coming to a close, but the end date has yet to be announced, according to local press reports. As of week 27, Belize Sugar Industries' (BSI) factory has milled a little more than 1.2 mln tonnes of sugarcane, slightly ahead...

Videos

Evans Belize, 5min.

Belize Plane Segment, 6min.

Fly Fishing - El Pescador Lodge in Belize - July 2017, 4min. A week with Cesar Acosta at El Pescador.

Fly Fishing - Permit, Tarpon & Snook in Belize - June 2018, 3min. Learning from the Permit Whisperer - Scully Garbutt.

Mission Trip SD Belize 2018, 13min.

WUB Morning Vibes June 22nd 2018, Watch Dr Eleanor Harrison-Buck talk about the opening of the Crooked Tree Museum and Cultural Heritage Center

Ocean day clean up 2018, 5min. Punta Gorda

Telethon in aid of Escalante Sub-Division Fire Victims, 50min.

International Jazz Festival takes place from 17th - 24th June, 20min.

Driving down a road in Orange Walk, Belize, 1min.

Belize Now | June 22, 2018, 27min. In tonight’s headlines: GOB meets with Belize City business community to address crime, National Security responds to Guatemalan incursions in rural Toledo, and a new conservation post is inaugurated in the most remote part of the Chiquibul National Park. These stories and more on this week’s edition of Belize Now. Thanks for joining us on this Friday, June 22nd, 2018!

Belize, Punta Gorda trip to the Cayes, 7min. Fishing and fun trip to the Cayes in southern Belize. Moho Caye Visit and Fishing in the Rio Grande.

Fly Fishing - Turneffe Flats Belize 2015, 2min. Chasing Bonefish

Model Safari Paradise Scramble , 13min. A scavenger hunt adventure with Mystique Models on location in Belize. Filmed in 2003.

June 22, 2018

Agriculture Prices At A Glance

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 schools and students honored for outstanding PSE performance
Belize Rural South (BRS) Area Representative Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr. awarded the top two students from Belize Rural South for their outstanding performance in this year’s Primary School Examinations (PSE) on Thursday, June 21st. 12-year-old Bryan Roca from San Pedro Roman Catholic School (SPRCS) scored the highest marks (92%) in San Pedro Town and 12-year-old Enrique Navarrette from Caye Caulker Roman Catholic School who scored the highest in Caye Caulker (82%). Both students received a check for $500 to assist them in their school expenses as they further their education.

Caye Caulker Lobster Festival is coming; meet the Miss Lobster Fest 2018 contestants
Lobster Season is open for 2018, and with it comes a lot of fun and traditional lobster festivals around the country. All is ready in the neighboring island of Caye Caulker, where the festivities for their 24th Annual Lobster Festival will take place from Friday, June 29th through to Sunday, July 1st. The anticipated event will tip off with the Miss Lobster Fest 2018-2019 pageant on the 29th, which will see four lovely young ladies vying for the coveted crown and some fabulous prizes. Meloney Arnold, Normari Blanco, Valerie Arnold, and Yammira Rosado will compete to become Caye Caulker’s next beauty ambassador in a talent, costume, and question and answer segment.

Ambergris Today

Hon. Manuel Heredia Awards Top PSE Scorers Of San Pedro And Caye Caulker
Minister of Tourism, Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr. presented checks to the Top PSE scorers of San Pedro and Caye Caulker as recognition for their excellent results on the examination. In a short, yet meaningful, ceremony Minister Heredia congratulated the students for their hard work and dedication. He stated that the money given to them was a form of acknowledgment for their excellent work in the Primary School Examination. Enrique Navarrette of Caye Caulker RC School received 82% on the Primary School Examinations and received $500 from the Belize Tourism Board and will be attending St. John's College in Belize City. Bryan Roca of San Pedro RC School achieved the highest score for the school with a 92% and placed 14th highest countrywide. Bryan received $500 from the Belize Tourism Board and will be attending San Pedro High School.

Misc Belizean Sources

Hon. John Saldivar visits Dolores Village
Hon. John Saldivar visits Dolores Village in Southern Belize, to meet with Mayan Leaders to discuss Border incursion concerns. Accompanying the Minister on the trip was CEO Felix Enriquez, Amb. Alexis Rosado, and Deputy Commander (BDF) Colonel Loria.

Calling all Solar people on Ambergris
If you have or have interest in going solar BEL is having a meeting at Sunbreeze conference room tomorrow, Friday, June 22 from 9:00 am - 11:00 am. They will be discussing solar on their agenda and asked me to invite a few solar people to the meeting if you are interested please RSVP at Leon Westby Leon.Westby@bel.com.bz Danielle Jones Danielle.Jones@bel.com.bz

Ride Across Belize 2018
The Social Security Board is having their annual Ride Across Belize fundraiser the first week of July. The riders will get into Cayo on Thrusday, July 5th, and ride to Dangriga on Friday, July 6th. All proceeds will go towards helping with dialysis treatment. Thanks, SSB! "It's that time of the year! SSB's staff initiative, Ride Across Belize is back!! Contact us to sign up or donate."

Movie Night at KoKo King
Showing this Friday we have: SHERLOCK GNOMES (PG) - Garden gnomes, Gnomeo & Juliet, recruit renowned detective Sherlock Gnomes to investigate the mysterious disappearance of other garden ornaments. RAMPAGE (PG13) - When three different animals become infected with a dangerous pathogen, a primatologist and a geneticist team up to stop them from destroying Chicago. Popcorn and other snacks available for the kids - dinner menu available

THE EMBASSY OF REPUBLIC OF CHINA (TAIWAN) CONTRIBUTES TO THE RENOVATION OF A BUILDING AT CENTRAL FARM UNDER THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE
The Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) made a donation of BZ$24,000.00 to the Department of Agriculture under the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment, Sustainable Development and Immigration, to support the renovation of a building used as an office and conference room at the Research, Development & Innovation Center located in Central Farm, Cayo District. The renovation project will improve the working environment of the employees, which will further strengthen the delivery of service to the farmers and stakeholders in the country under bilateral cooperation programs with the Republic of China (Taiwan).

22 Youths Graduate from Belize Youth Challenge Programme
The Belize Youth Challenge Programme (BYC) today, June 21st, marked the closure of its first intake with a passing out ceremony for the 22 cadets who successfully completed the residential phase of the programme. Since the start of the programme in October 2017, young men ages 15-17 have learnt discipline, leadership, and teamwork; taking academic and vocational classes and keeping fit with physical training and military drills. In his remarks, Minister of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation (MHDSTPA), Hon. Anthony Martinez applauded the cadets on completing the course: “You took up the challenge to create a new path for your lives and have successfully completed this Belize Youth Challenge journey, and for that, we are very proud of you, and you should also be proud of yourselves.”

New Mangroves Regulations to Take Effect on June 23, 2018
The public is advised that on June 15th, 2018, the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment, Sustainable Development, and Immigration Senator Hon. Godwin Hulse signed the Forests (Protection of Mangroves) Regulations 2018, which replaces the regulations in force at the time of signing. The new Mangroves Regulations, which went through an arduous process of discussion and consultation, come into effect on June 23rd, 2018 upon publication in the Gazette.

Study Tour of Energy Efficiency Labelling and Testing Programme
This week, Lennox Nicholson, Consumer Protection Inspector is participating in a Study Tour of Energy Efficiency Labelling and Testing Programme at Intertek in New York, USA. This activity is being hosted under the Organisation of American States (OAS) Project, "Advancing Metrology for Sustainable Energy Technologies and the Environment (M4SET)” and is aimed at supporting CARICOM’s energy efficiency goals of developing a harmonised energy efficiency labelling scheme for lighting, refrigerators and air conditioners coupled with the required metrology and testing services.

Paradise Theater playing this weekend
We do have movies this weekend. Screen 1, Isle of dogs at 7, Rampage at 9. Screen 2, Escape plan 2 at 7, Ready player one at 9. The theater is closed Saturday night .. No movies Saturday (lobster fest)

Crooked Tree Museum
The Crooked Tree Museum has as part of its collection a series of 3D-printed artifacts. We see these replicas as an important part of object conservation and teaching. Created using elaborate models based on hundreds of photos of each object, these models of ancient Maya shell, jade, and ceramic are high-quality documents of originals that require sophisticated conservation, storage, and display to prevent deterioration. After the objects are printed, they must be finished, painted, and polished to create final products that are true to the original in every way. Here you see Ellie, Lori, Sara, and Katie sand, finish, paint, and polish some of the objects we will feature in our June 30th opening.

Channel 7

Mob Metes Out Terminal Justice To Machete Wielding Marauder
A village mob in Silk Grass killed a man after he chopped two residents and tried to sexually assault a woman. It happened at around 1:00 this morning in that southern village. Salvadorean and resident of the village, Rene Godoy barged into a home and started chopping the male residents, while sexually assaulting a 32 year old female. That mayhem woke up the neighborhood and that's when the mob went for the machete wielding marauder. Police told us more today about the violent, ultimately, deadly standoff:...

Family Of Hostage Hasn’t Heard From Him In Two Days
San Narciso businessman Omero Campos has been missing for four days and counting - and tonight, his family is gravely concerned because they haven't heard from him for two days. Today, Police told us he is being held captive - but wouldn't say much more:... DCP Chester Williams, Commander - Operations: "Mr. Campos remains missing and from all indications he have been kidnapped. We have police officers still on the ground, canvassing to see what can be picked up to be able to assist us in that investigation. Hopefully that may be able to lead us to his return safely home. There are several things that we are doing on the ground, which I will not say to the media, because we don't want to be able to give our full operational strategy to those who may have him captive. But we are on the grounds and we are doing several things to be able to assist in returning his safely home to his family."

Two Men Killed When Truck Fails To Put On Hazards
Two men were killed in a fatal traffic accident last night. It happened between miles one and two on the Placencia Road where a Mack dump truck had shut down on the road. But, the truck wasn't unto the shoulder, half of it was still across the road - and the driver allegedly didn't have on any lights, nor had he put any warnings on the highway. 20 year old Alex Duncan, and 28 year old Mauricio Palma came riding along on two separate small motorbikes and didn't see the Mack truck occupying half of the land of oncoming traffic. They collided into the truck and the result was fatal, double fatal:

Still No Charges For Cop Who Killed Bike Rider In PG
And while charges were brought within less than 24 hours in that case, the pace of the investigation is far slower in the case of a police officer who knocked down and killed a man in Punta Gorda. 40 year old Corporal Alexander Salam knocked down Selvin Bahadur on Tuesday morning. The 69 year old died form his injuries a short time after. But, police seem to be taking their time with this case - and they told us why:... DCP Chester Williams, Commander - Operations "We have since obtained blood and urine sample from Mr. Salam which has been sent to the lab as is the case with every traffic accident. I must say that we have no indication that he was drinking or was under the influence, but those are just the practice that we normally do with traffic accidents and the matter is currently under investigation..."

Robbers Wore School Uniforms
There are reports of another robbery on the Northside today. This one happened at Tony's store on Daly Street. Police have not provided any details but according to preliminary information, the robbers were dressed in high school uniforms. We'll have more on this tomorrow.

Defence Minister Goes To Southwest Border Communities
Earlier this week, Prime Minister Dean Barrow expressed his and Cabinet's support for providing the border villages in Southern Belize with additional BDF protection. This is after complaints from those border communities that - after the referendum in that country - Guatemalan's have been pushing into their land. Well, yesterday Minister of Defense, Hon. John Saldivar, flew down to Dolores on BDF Helicopter to meet with several Maya and village leaders about their concerns and where they need assistance. Maya Leaders Alliance representative, Cristina Coc, presented a list of recommendations to Saldivar. Here's Coc speaking about some of those recommendations as well as Saldivar's thoughts on the meeting...

From At-Risk to Standing At-Attention
We met Saldivar at an event for the Belize Youth Challenge program. It's a collaborative effort between the Ministries of Human Development and Defence to take at risk youths off the streets and give them some structure and military style discipline. The initiative celebrated its first Passing Out Ceremony today as 22 young men between the ages 15 and 17 successfully completed the residential phase of the program. During that time, they lived together and were taught military principles such as discipline and teamwork as well as vocational and academic skills. We spoke to both Ministers as well as a parent about the success of the program...

Moving Forward With Forward Operating Base
After several delays, the Coast Guard's forward operating base on Hunting Caye is ready to be officially opened. While we had him today, we asked Saldivar about the importance of the base... "We know that the forward Operating Base in Hunting Caye is scheduled to be officially opened later this month. Can you talk to us about the delays that we've seen in the development of the operation base, how it will help us now that it is actually open."

Seawell Suit
2 weeks ago, we told you how Mark Seawell, one of the 2 Seawell brothers who successfully fought his extradition to the United States, is suing the Government for unlawful imprisonment for the 6 and a half years he spent in jail. His case was called up for a hearing before Justice Shona Griffith today. Seawell and his attorney, Anthony Sylvestre, presented themselves before the court, along with the government's attorney, for what was scheduled as a hearing of the case. The two sides already made written submissions and so the judge adjourned it while she compiles their submissions. The date of the next hearing is July 5.

Key Witness Appears In Re-Trial of Three Accused Killers
Last night, we told you how the prosecution was having difficulty getting its main witness to appear and testify in the murder retrial of Orel Leslie, Tyrone Meighan, and Brandon Baptist. Well, he presented himself before the court today, and provided evidence which implies a link between all 3 accused and the November 2012 murder of James Noralez. Due to new witness protection laws, we can't tell you his name, but we can say that he had a police escort arriving at and leaving the court. He took the stand and testified that 3 days before Noralez was killed, he and Noralez - met Orel Leslie and he heard when Leslie accused Norales of working with the police, and warned him that if he is working for the police he will die.

UB Endowment Gives Education
5 students were awarded scholarships to pursue their Bachelor's degree at the University of Belize. Now as we have reported, the University is facing some serious financial challenges but President Sankat says he has found a way to source some extra funds and help the students out through an Endowment Fund that he launched last year. We found out more at the awards ceremony at the Princess. Clement Sankat, President, University of Belize: "It is really the award of bursaries out of a fund that was launched last year. Last year when I came in we launched the endowment fund and many good Universities have that. It is a pot of money outside of the normal government subventions and tuition fees..."

Two Decades of Coastal Zone
Today the Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute celebrated its 20th anniversary. The staff held a ceremony at their training room and the Chief Executive Officer explained that it is a time to reflect on their important accomplishments and also what they need to achieve going forward. And in line with their mandate to protect the coast and marine life from plastic pollution, the CZMAI has designed a new cell phone case made out of bamboo to replace those plastic phone cases. Interesting right ? Samuels told us more about this initiative and how the proceeds will go to an endowment fund for students.

PUP City Council Marks 100 Days
It's been exactly 112 days since the PUP City Council slate were elected to City Hall. Since then, they've been thrust head on into the hurly burly of public administration, running a council that's often in the red, and juggling scarce resources while facing a tide of rising expectations. Today, the Deputy Mayor, Oscar Arnold discussed those first 100 days - which has been like jumping into a moving car that's barreling downhill. He told us that this administration met unresolved issues from the last Council, and they've had to make those challenges a priority for immediate resolution.

CITCO Spending To Fix concrete Streets
As you heard, the council has had to focus its attention on some of the 200+ streets that the Bradley Administration had cemented using the Municipal Bond proceeds. We've seen a few of them, including a section of Orange Street, that certainly have not withstood the test of time. The wear and tear has caused some of these concrete streets to deteriorate a lot faster than was expected, and so, the council has been trying to mitigate, and - where possible - reverse the damage. The Deputy Mayor said that this unforeseen task will keep the council busy for a while more:

Why, Why, Whine?
Of course, no one cares when politicians whine - they asked - matter of fact, they begged for the job - so they shouldn't complain about doing it. But, the practical reality is that the Council has to find money to fix streets and pay the sanitation company in the midst of the revenue slow season. Well, any one who's been in that seat before might say "Welcome to City Hall" - since that revenue feast and famine is chronic. But it's his first slow season, so we forgave the Deputy Mayor when he started lamenting about how "no money noh deh." We asked him if the current "empty pocket syndrome" at City Hall is due to electioneering from the past administration. He carefully stayed away from saying just that:

CITCO Says It’s Not Jacking APEX For Civic Trade License
But while the Council is strapped for cash, the Deputy Mayor says that City Hall is not attempting to gouge Apex Belize Limited on its trade license fees. We told you last week of the reports that had emerged that the City's Trade License Board was considering billing Apex a half a million dollars for its trade license to manage the Civic Center. We asked the Deputy Mayor about it 8 day ago, and, today, when we brought it up again, he said that he has done checks with the Board, and the final assessment that Apex has been given is nowhere near that figure:

Commercial Center Project Delayed By Leaky Roof
One other topic that the media brought up was the progress on the renovation of the Downtown Commercial Center. The contractors have been working on it for about 6 months, and the estimated completion time was December of this year or early January, 2019. Well, the Mayor says that the contractors encountered an unforeseen problem that they need to address, and it will delay the completion. Here's how he explained how a leaky roof is getting in the way of the works:

Artists Against Israel
Next week the Police Academy will hold a course titled "Police and Community". While the name sounds harmless, the course has generated a wave of backlash because it is being facilitated by the Israeli state - which, critics say, is a practitioner and exporter of violence. The jewish state recently made headlines for its brutal crackdown on Palestinian protestors. In fact, Belize was one of 120 UN countries who publicly condemned Israel's actions against Palestine. Now, in order to protest the police's involvement with the controversial Israel military, a group of artists, lead by Katie Usher, has penned a letter to the Prime Minister and Cabinet to voice their concerns. Usher came by our studio today to explain more...

The Business Side Of Music
If you work in the Belize music industry and want to learn more about the business side of things, you can sign up for an online course entitled "The Business of Music for Caribbean Practitioners". The Belize Coalition of Service Providers along with its partners launched the program today and they are calling on all artists to sign up. We dropped by the B-SCAP office to find out how this course can provide artists with very useful information in their career.

Channel 5

A Chopping Spree in Silk Grass Ends With the Deadly Beating of Alleged Attacker
Did vigilante justice end the life of a Silk Grass resident? Or did authorities go overboard restraining a seemingly high and angry man? Tonight the family of Rene Godoy says [...]

Police Launch Internal and Criminal Probe into Fatal Beat Down
Police, meanwhile, say that after one a.m. they responded to reports that a man had chopped three persons in Silk Grass Village on the Southern Highway. The chopping victims had [...]

Land Feud in Lemonal; ComPol’s Wife Takes on Relatives for Choice Property
Hell broke loose in the village of Lemonal, Belize District, early this morning between relatives over a problem that had been brewing for some time. It has to do with [...]

Orel Leslie, et al. Back in Court for Murder Retrial
The main witnesses in the murder retrial of three men, accused with the murder of B.D.F. soldier James Norales, testified today before Justice Colin Williams. He is Aron Paquiul, a [...]

2 Motorists Perish in Road Traffic Accident on Placencia Road
Since the beginning of the week, three persons have lost their lives in separate traffic accidents in southern Belize. On Tuesday morning, sixty-nine-year-old Selvin Bahadur was knocked off his bicycle [...]

Is Abducted Businessman Omero Campos Still Alive?
San Narciso businessman, Omero Campos is still nowhere to be found after having been reportedly kidnapped ninety-six hours ago. The proprietor of Henry’s Store in the village left his house [...]

A Hundred-day Report Card for P.U.P. CitCo
Mayor Bernard Wagner and his P.U.P, this week marked their first hundred days at City Hall. After a decade of U.D.P. rule, the first order of business was a look [...]

Are Cemented City Streets Still Holding Up?
One of the primary responsibilities of the City Council is streets, and although over one hundred and sixty were cemented under the previous U.D.P. administration, many are in dire need [...]

Dire Straits at City Hall, Deputy Mayor Arnold Explains Financial Crunch
Deputy Mayor Oscar Arnold also spoke on the financial crunch City Hall is experiencing. It is well known that December through March is the period during which the council’s revenue [...]

The Latest on Former City Admin’s Suspension Challenge
Five persons have been terminated from City Hall for various reasons since Mayor Bernard Wagner and his P.U.P. team took office; primarily due to redundancy. But the most notable termination [...]

22 Young Graduates from Belize Youth Challenge Program
Twenty-two young men graduated this morning as cadets of the Belize Youth Challenge Programme. They represent the first intakes of the programme which started last October. The young men honed [...]

Accepting Government’s Errors in Present Crime Situation
It was a happy occasion for the graduating cadets but also a time of reflection for the Minister of National Security. John Saldivar admitted today that the government has failed [...]

Maya Leaders Question Effectiveness of the B.D.F. in Keeping Guatemalan Farmers Away in the South
The village of Otoxha in Toledo has become a hot spot for illegal incursions by farmers from Guatemala who have been clearing of tracts of land for farming purposes. Other [...]

B.D.F. Minister John Saldivar Takes a Trip to Otoxha
Coc continued that in Dolores, Guatemalan farmers had first put markers and then replaced them with posts even as trespassing and incursions continued in the San Benito Poite and San [...]

UB Launches an Endowment Fund
The University of Belize handed out five bursaries today through its Endowment Fund Bursary. The fund was officially launched today. President Clement Sankat announced that its first fundraising effort held [...]

Happy 20th Anniversary Coastal Zone!!
The Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute is celebrating its twentieth anniversary of promoting the sustainable use and management of Belize’s coastal zone. To mark the occasion, the organization has [...]

A Manual for Youth Leadership is Presented to MOE
An official ceremony to deliver the Youth Leadership Resource Manual to the Ministry of Education was held today in Belize City. The instruction booklet has been successfully implemented in eleven [...]

Yasser Musa Leads Anti-Israeli Protest
The state of Israel is celebrating seventy years and to mark that occasion, Alon Levi, their Deputy Chief of Staff, at their embassy in Mexico will be in Belize. Part [...]

Healthy Living Looks at the Effects of Sleep Deprivation
Are you getting enough sleep? If you manage to get anywhere between seven to nine hours a night then you’re doing great. If it is less than that, then, you [...]

LOVE FM

Coastal Zone celebrates 20 years
The Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute is celebrating twenty years of existence. The occasion is being celebrated under the theme “Celebrating 20 years of Promoting the Sustainable Use and Management of Belize’s Coastal Zone. The Coastal Zone Management Authority & Institute was birthed out of a need to protect Belize’s natural resources which became …

Efforts made for a safer environment
Earlier this year, Cabinet approved a proposal to phase out single-use plastic shopping bags, Styrofoam and plastic products by April 22, 2019. The tasked is huge since the public has not fully grasped the dangers of these products, neither are they willing to let go of the convenience. Chantalle Samuels, the Chief Executive Officer for …

1,147 students graduate from UB
A total of one thousand one hundred and forty-seven students graduated from the University of Belize. Graduation exercises were held in Punta Gorda and in Belize City. In Belize City, the ceremony was held at the Civic Center where Minister of Education, Patrick Faber, was the guest speaker. Meanwhile, the Mayor of Punta Gorda, Ashton …

Robber targets ICB office in San Pedro Town
On Wednesday morning a man robbed the ICB office on Pescador Drive in San Pedro Ambergris Caye making off with an undisclosed amount of money. Police have launched an investigation and are looking for the suspect. Following the incident, ICB issued a statement in which it said that police had made an arrest and was …

Police Corporal investigated for fatal traffic incident in Toledo
Meanwhile, a Police Corporal is being investigated for another road traffic incident that happened on the Southern Highway in the Toledo District. It happened on Tuesday when Selvin Bahadur was hit and died shortly after. DCP Williams spoke of the investigation. DCP Chester Williams: They saw one Selvin Bajador suffering from injuries, he was taken …

BSI targets CARICOM market for DC Sugars, faces challenges
On Wednesday the BSI/ASR group hosted the media for a tour of the expansions that have been made to the factory to enhance the production of Direct Consumption Sugars. The work began in September of last year and will see the investment of 22 million dollars. As the work progresses, the factory has begun producing …

Man is charged for slamming his vehicle into police mobile
Police have charged Asuncion Rash for crashing his private vehicle into a parked police vehicle over the weekend. Reports are that on Saturday, Rash slammed into the police vehicle allegedly over a previous altercation with officers who were in the police mobile. Today, while police did not confirm that such altercation happened, DCP Chester Williams …

Two men die after colliding into parked vehicle on the Southern Highway
Two men, travelling on separate motorcycles, have died in a road traffic incident. It happened last night between eight and eight-thirty last night. According to reports, both men were traveling from Santa Cruz Village to Placencia when they collided into a parked vehicle. The men, 20-year-old Alex Duncan and 28-year-old Mauricio Palma were severely injured …

Businessman who was kidnapped on Sunday still captive; police believe he is still alive
The search for businessman Omero Campos continues. The San Narciso Village resident was last seen on Sunday when he left his house and headed to his farm. After being missing for some hours, his family received a call in which persons who allegedly took him asked for ransom money. Police continues to investigate the case …

“This is Belize and we will defend every inch, every centimeter, of our country”- John Saldivar
Minister of National Security, John Saldivar says he is sending Guatemalan encroachers and poachers a clear message that quote “this is Belize and we will defend every inch, every centimeter, of our country”. End of quote. Those were the words of Saldivar who along with other government officials met with Maya leaders in Dolores Village …

The first intake of the Belize Youth Challenge
Twenty two young men became the first intake to successfully complete the Belize Youth Challenge. The young men were recognized during a passing out ceremony this morning at the ITVET compound in Belize City. The Belize Youth Challenge Program is an alternative program for males 15-17 years who are at-risk of coming in contact with the law and/or have behavioral problems.

Man subdued after chopping two others sustains facial injuries and dies
A man who allegedly inflicted chop wounds to two other men in Silk Grass Village is dead tonight after he sustained a number of injuries while being subdued.

Chargé d’Affaires concerned over Trump’s Zero Tolerance Policy on Immigration
As we mentioned, US President, Donald J Trump and his administration have come under heavy heat after footage of immigrant children detained in cages surfaced. His Zero Tolerance policy on immigration has been widely criticized even by members of his own party.

RET hands over Youth Leadership Manual to MOE
RET International is a global organization which focuses on protecting at risk youths through education. Here in Belize, the RET Youth Leadership Manual has been successfully implemented in eleven high schools. This has allowed the program to touch the lives of about five thousand persons.

UB helping its students to achieve their goals
Five students received scholarships from the UB Endowment Fund Bursary. The funds were made possible from the first President’s all inclusive fete which took place in September 2017. President of the University of Belize, Professor Clement Sankat told Love News about this first of a kind initiative.

PlusTV

Jermaine Moody guilty of Manslaughter
Jermaine Moody was found guilty of manslaughter today and not guilty of murder. His murder trial got on the way 15 days ago in a trial by judge without jury. He was accused of the murder of 31-year-old Moses Coc who was beaten and hit in the head with a piece of stick, causing Coc’s death. That inc...

14 years for killing doctor
37 year old Dwayne Davis has been sentenced to 14 years for strangling Doctor Ivan Garcia inside his bedroom. That is 14 years less 6 years for remand time and less an additional year for pleading guilty to manslaughter. Davis was also charged with murder but on Thursday, May 24, , the trial kicked...

BISL vs GOB case concludes
The Supreme Court, in 2016, dismissed claims made by Belize International Service Limited , BISL, against the Government of Belize to the tune of 90 million dollars for breach of contract. Those claims arose after the compulsory acquisition of IMMARBE and IBCR in June of 2013 by the government of Be...

Accused murderer suing Belize Central Prison
Accused murderer Orel Leslie is taking the Belize Central Prison to court. Leslie is accusing the prison of violating his constitutional rights by treating him inhumanely and not affording him the right to a fair trial. Leslie was to appear in Court today before Justice Abel, but, according to repor...

Economic concerns
As most are aware by now, Belize’s external and domestic debts have an all-time high of over three billion dollars. Externally, debts stand at two point three billion dollars, which is approximately seventy percent of Gross Domestic Product. Most of it is owed to international development banks and ...

Nationwide Cash Express robbed
There was an armed robbery in San Pedro this morning. According to police reports, sometime around eight this morning, the Insurance Corporation of Belize and Nation Wide Cash Express at the Corner of Tarpon Street and Pescador Drive, San Pedro Town was opening up for business for the day. That is w...

Drug Trafficking charges for 23 pounds of weed
Police have arrested and charged a Belize City man for Drug Trafficking after he was busted with over 23 pounds of Cannabis. Reports are that 29 year old Cordell Flores was spotted by patrolling officers on Arlington Drive in Belize City. Flores was reportedly throwing a black plastic bag from the d...

PM responds to criticisms of CARICOM secretariat
The Caribbean Single Market Economy’s aim is to integrate CARICOM member states into a single unit in order to make the region a more powerful presence on the global stage. Earlier this month, Caribbean officials convened in Guyana ...

Special Envoy urges parents’ vigilance over children
Over the past two weeks, we reported on three incidents of harm upon children, allegedly due to negligence. A months sold baby was shot in his back whenthe pellet gun in his father’s hand went off. The child has survived. ...

PSE award for Special Needs student
An Ephesus S.D.A Adventist School Student in Belize City received special recognition at yesterday’s Primary School Examination Awards. In spite of his physical limitations, Asher Leslie was able to sit the Primary School Examinations ...

Public Service Week 2018
Public Service week was officially opened on Sunday with a National Day of prayer for Public servants. This year’s public service week is being celebrated under the theme: Moving towards the future with innovation ...

Taiwan donates half million US dollars to Belize
Today, Belize received a grant of five hundred and ten thousand US dollars from the Republic of China (Taiwan). The monies have been donated to support Belize’s upcoming Presidency ...

The Reporter

Motorcyclist reportedly killed in traffic accident
A motorcyclist was reportedly killed in a traffic accident a short while ago. The accident happened near Santa Cruz village on the Southern highway. The Reporter will have more on this fatality on Friday.

Two motorcyclists on separate bikes crash into truck and die
Two men driving separate motorcycles, reportedly died on Wednesday night when they crashed into a truck that was parked on the road. The incident happened in Placencia village and the truck was said to have not had on any light to indicate its presence on […]

Breaking Belize News

Businessman’s palapa reportedly set on fire in Progresso
Yesterday around 11:25 a.m., Sunil Talreja, 52, of Progresso Village reported to authorities that around 2:30 a.m., his […]

Drunk man goes ‘bananas’ in Silk Grass; Chops several villagers with machete
Today around 1 a.m., police officers were deployed to Silk Grass Village after reports were made that […]

Robber takes $8000 from Nation Wide Cash Express; Police are investigating
BBN previously reported on a robbery that occurred at the Insurance Corporation of Belize (ICB) located […]

Police: San Narciso businessman was kidnapped
Police have now officially ruled the missing case of San Narciso businessman, Homero Campus, as kidnapping […]

Taiwan donates $24,000 to the Ministry of Agriculture
Today, the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) made a donation of BZ$24,000.00 to the […]

New Mangroves Regulations come into effect on June 23, 2018
On June 15, 2018, the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment, Sustainable Development, and Immigration, […]

13-year-old minor raped
Police are investigating the rape of a thirteen-year-old minor in the Belize District. On June 16, […]

BBN Person of the Week- Denise Garcia
Denise Garcia, originally from Punta Gorda, Toledo recently completed a Masters in Environmental Science and […]

National HIV testing day 2018
The National AIDS Commission (NAC), in collaboration with Atlantic Bank Ltd, the Ministry of Health […]

2 dead in fatal road traffic accident on the Placencia Road
This morning after 1:00, police responded to a road traffic accident on the Placencia Road […]

Re-Registration: Getting it right
The views expressed in this article are those of the writer and not necessarily those of Breaking Belize […]

BEL reports $17 million in earnings in 2017
Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) yesterday reported on its 2017 performance to shareholders at the company’s […]

San Pedro business robbed of $8,000
Yesterday morning, just as the office of the Insurance Corporation of Belize in San Pedro […]

Police officer to be charged for fatal traffic accident
A police corporal has been served with a notice of intended prosecution for knocking down […]

Issue #40 - May 2018 of The BELIZE AG REPORT is online here!
Click HERE to download the PDF

ICDF/TTM Improvement in Sheep
The cattle and poultry industries in Belize just had a boost: sheep. The Genetic Improvement in Sheep and Goat Project, which began in December, 2015, was to be a 3 year project but due to problems acquiring purebred Barbados Black Belly and Dorper sheep, the project has been extended to December, 2019. Now having acquired 45 local Dorper from breeder/farmer, Amando Carillo in Orange Walk and 29 Dorper and 16 Barbados Black Belly from the U.S., the breeding program began in earnest in the past month. The inauguration ceremony took place on 15 March 2018 at the site of the project at Central Farm with the background baaing of the 125 sheep that were currently housed there.

Carbon Farming
Carbon Farming…what is it? The organization Drawdown (www.drawdown.org) identifies some of the practices that small holders in Belize traditionally practiced as being excellent ways to drawdown carbon. In his book, Carbon Farming, Eric Toeinsmeier identifies some of these practices as “carbon farming”. The use of trees, regenerative agriculture, food forests and tropical staple foods are ways farmers can repair damaged soils while reducing vulnerability to climate variability and obtain significant yields over time.

Hierba Mora
Hierba mora, Solanum nigrum (night shade), is a species in the Solanum genus that refers collectively to a wide-ranging group of plants, including poisonous, medicinal, and edible species such as three major crops of global importance: tomato, potato, and eggplant. Hierba mora is not native to Belize but has been in the Americas long enough that it is now naturalized. It is native to Eurasia and was introduced in the Americas, Australasia, and South Africa.

To the Editor
Dear Editors, I was completely unprepared for the swift destruction of rainforest and its rapid conversion to mile after mile of what will soon be irrigated sugarcane fields here in the Cayo district. Within a few short weeks the devastation was complete: GONE! Rainforest… GONE! Animal habitats… GONE! Birds… and as soon as the giant rolls of plastic tubing can be distributed around the fields, gallons and gallons of water from the Belize River will be GONE! The sugar industry will add some jobs to the economy of Belize. However, at what cost? Consider the loss to future generations of the biodiversity of Belize, the additional costs in healthcare due to heavy consumption of sugar and sugar sweetened products, and…

Belize National Citrus Conference
The 105 year old citrus industry had its first-ever national citrus conference held on 18 April 2018 at the host Belagro’s Belmopan warehouse of the Big Creek Group of Companies. Belagro’s Manager Wilbert Ramclam moderated the very successful event. The forum was attended by 100 or so participants, that included citrus growers, GOB officials, representatives of the processing company, and other stakeholders.

Coconut Water Standards
by Dottie Feucht. In issue 38 of the Belize Ag Report we included a report on the CARICOM regional standards for coconut oil. This is a summary of the standards for natural coconut water which is defined as undiluted, natural, untreated clear liquid endosperm of the coconut without additives. If you buy commercially prepared coconut water labeled Packaged Natural Coconut Water according to these standards you can be sure that the coconuts used were harvested seven to nine months after pollination; that no fallen coconuts were used; that the composition in terms of sugars, acids, fats and ash are within specified range; that the quality in terms of physiochemical and microbiological limits is met; that it is free of contaminants…

Beyond the Backyard
The Humblest of Roots by Jenny Wildman. I have eaten many a root vegetable in soup, stews, boil up, mashed, fried and every which way, some more flavorful than others. In this category I would include beets, carrots, parsnips, salsify, potatoes, yams, turnips, swedes, manglewurzels, taro, cassava and coco yams. Although we may include bulbs, corms, rhizomes and root stems, the true definition of a root vegetable is a taproot or tuberous root. Most of these are considered by many to be the staple foods of the poor not fit for much else than livestock. The humblest of these is the turnip. They grow all over the world but having never seen any in Belize, I was pleasantly surprised to…

Caribbean Food Crops Society to Meet in Belize
The Caribbean Food Crops Society (CFCS) will celebrate its 54th Annual Meeting from July 8 to 13, 2018 at the Ramada Princess Hotel and Casino in Belize City. The theme of this year’s meeting is “Multi-functionality of Agriculture in the Caribbean Basin in Countries with Predominant Tourist Industries”. Hosting the annual meeting of CFCS in Belize was brought about by a January 2018 meeting between Dr. Wilfredo Colon, Chair and CEO of the CFCS and the Honorable Godwin Hulse and his staff of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, the Environment, Sustainable Development and Immigration. The weeklong annual meeting will consist of keynote speeches, scientific presentations, technical sessions, farmers’ forums, field trips, and social and cultural activities.

Jackfruit
by Marquito Stanko. With fruits weighing from 10 pounds to over 70 pounds growing from its trunk and lower branches, this tree begs for a second look and in more ways than one! Not only is the jackfruit an amazing fruit to behold, it’s also a highly versatile, resilient and nutritious tree crop that is suitable for growing in many areas of Belize. Jackfruit is known scientifically as Artocarpus heterophyllus. There are many common names like jakfruit, jak, jaca, chakka, nangka, langka, khanun, khnor, mak mi and jaqueira to name quite a few. It is in the Moraceae family along with breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis), champedak (Artocarpus integer), mulberry (Morus sp.), and fig (Ficus sp.). Native to India, Malaysia and other…

Our Vanishing Wetlands
Roughly half of the world’s wetlands are lost, mostly occurring within the past 150 years. Making up only 1.5% of the Earth’s surface, wetlands provide about 40% of global ecosystem services. Recent Google Earth© images and drone flights over the Belize River valley reveal very high wetland losses from agriculture, mostly occurring within the past 30 years. We are losing wetlands so rapidly around the world and in Belize because most people do not know what wetlands are, considering them wastelands rather than valuable ecosystems critical to our survival.

2018 National Agriculture & Trade Show
Belize’s National Agriculture & Trade Show (NATS) officially opened in Belmopan on Friday 27th April, 2018 under the theme “Let’s Get Growing”. The Governor General, Sir Colville N. Young, inspected the BDF Guard of Honor, followed by the welcoming address by The Mayor of Belmopan, Mr. Khalid Belisle. Guest speaker Mrs. Sandra Bedran, Managing Director of the Atlantic Bank Ltd., spoke about the many opportunities in agriculture, including many servicing our tourism industry. Keynote speaker Honourable Godwin Hulse, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry, The Environment, Sustainable Development and Immigration, discussed the improvements in the show, including many infrastructure improvements of buildings and gardens, creating a more functional venue not only for the NATS but for other events throughout the year. …

Spanish Lookout Expo
Every other year Spanish Lookout hosts its Expo at Countryside Park with an increasing number of attendees, exhibitors and activities. Held this year on March 2nd and 3rd, the Expo drew 17,500 attendees from all over the country, a 10% increase over Expo 2016. The well-organized parking accommodated the increased number of buses of school students, attendees and exhibitor vehicles.

Industrial Hemp Production in Belize
On Tuesday, 13th March 2018 Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry, The Environment, Sustainable Development and Immigration (MAFFESDI), the Attorney General’s office, Caribbean Agriculture Research & Development Institute (CARDI), Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA), Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE) and other GOB concerned parties invited stakeholders to join them in a packed NATS Conference Room for a full day of presentations and discussions about the potential of an industrial hemp industry for Belize.

Albrecht’s Soil Fertility Work
by Neal Kinsey. Some fifty years ago, when first becoming acquainted with Dr. William Albrecht and his work, and perhaps even far longer than that, it was felt by many in agricultural education (but Dr. Albrecht was not one of them) that those doing the farming were not smart enough to understand the basic “science” of agriculture. If that were ever true, such times are far gone based on what farmers need to know and understand to farm in this day and age. Now there seems to be a much different push to discourage farmers from learning the basics of soil fertility. The claim is that farmers don’t have enough time to learn all the facts for themselves. Teach them…

Homemade Health
In a quest to detoxify home and body, I discovered a remedy for fleas and ticks for animals that was non-toxic, and, it turns out, even beneficial for humans: diatomaceous earth (DE); it is basically fossilized aquatic algae that has been compressed over millions of years and now can be found at various mines around the world and in fresh and salt-water. Food-grade DE comes from freshwater deposits. It is the purest kind and is safe for human consumption in small amounts. Like all good things, it must be taken with care and understanding.

Regeneration International Works with Belizeans
RI Works with Belizeans to Scale Up Regenerative Agriculture Early in June 2015, about 60 people—farmers, scientists, activists, media, business leaders—representing 21 countries convened in Costa Rica to launch Regeneration International (RI), a new nonprofit organization with a global mission: to promote and facilitate the global transition to regenerative agriculture and land-use practices and systems that provide abundant, nutritious food; revitalize local economies; regenerate soil fertility and water-retention capacity; nurture biodiversity; promote social justice and fair trade; and restore climate stability. In 2015 the word “regeneration,” in the context of food and farming, was relatively new. So in the early days RI focused heavily on education and movement-building—but always with an eye toward igniting an on-the-ground regenerative agriculture revolution. What…

From Cane to Cattle Pastures…
Froghoppers Identify New Habitat by Beth Roberson. Sugar cane, Sacharum officinarum, is a member of the Poaceae or grass family; froghoppers, Aeneolamia varia and Aneolaomia albofaceata have been recognized as a notable pest for Belizean cane farmers since the first severe infestation in cane of 2007. Cattle ranchers were advised in the 90’s to improve their pastures with monocultures of imported grass varieties which are known for their higher nutrition profile, drought resistance and other positive features. Froghoppers gradually recognized these improved pastures (fellow Poaceae) as very suitable habitat for themselves and expanded their turf. According to the report made at the March 2017 BLPA AGM, by meteorologist Fermin Blanco, froghoppers are spreading thru Central America; weather services hope to…

BLPA’s 40th Annual AGM
On 24 March the BLPA held its 40th Annual General Meeting at their headquarters with members attending from all 6 districts. After welcoming protocol and remarks, several speakers updated members with exciting happenings within the industry.

The Other Cowfoot
by Deborah Harder. The “cowfoot soup”, popular among Belizeans, is not made from this herb, but from the actual feet of cows. The herb is named for its resemblance to a cow’s hoof print and is a useful native plant. It grows wild and is found all over Belize. Look around your land for a plant with large leaves (up to 16 inches by 12 inches or more) that smells like anise and has a white spike at the base of the leaf during its blossom time. All you have to do is let it stand. However, young plants can also be transplanted in desired locations. It is often very prolific. Tea made from the leaves is reminiscent of sassafras…

Turmeric / Yellow Ginger
A New Export Crop for Belize by Umeeda Swiltlo Turmeric (Curcuma longa), also known as yellow ginger or golden root, was brought to Belize by Indian indentured servants when they came to southern and northern Belize districts. It is an essential spice used in many Indian foods. The traditional way of using it in Belize was to grind it with a mortar and pestle, add salt, black pepper, garlic, ginger and culantro and make it into round balls. When cooking a curry, people fried onions, added tomatoes and some of the premade turmeric ball. People would also wash, then boil the freshly harvested turmeric root and dry it in the sun followed by the tedious process of mortaring to make…

Limes of Belize
by Mary Susan Loan Lime is citrus genus of the family Rutaceae. Common species growing in Belize include Tahitian or Persian (Citrus latifolia), key lime (Citrus aurantifolia) and Rangpur or Jamaica lime (Citrus limonata). Belizean open-air market places are the best places to find favorites: (1) classic Tahitian and Persian green limes with pale green interior and with few-to-no seeds which grow to be from about one and a half to two and a half inch ovoid fruits, (2) smaller paler key limes and (3) the variety known as Jamaican limes: juicy, seedy, and sour with orange skin and orange interior. Jamaicas can be used as a substitute when green limes are not available. All are tart, juicy and aromatic…

A Book Review: Tuning Into Nature
This book, subtitled, “Infrared Radiation and the Insect Communication System”, might seem a bit of a handful at first glance. Full and complete understanding of its contents may come only with a degree in physics and perhaps degrees in electronics and biology thrown in. That said this is a very interesting read even for the lesser mortals amongst us, and even gives the reader a couple of surprises along the way. The latter, I would submit, is a sign of a useful and important book.

Ag Briefs
UBCF – The University of Belize College of Agriculture will host a 4-day Soil Fertility Course… Caribbean Food Crops SocietyThe Caribbean Food Crop Society (CFCS) will hold its 54th Annual Meeting… Regeneration International and Regeneration Belize present Transforming Tropical Agriculture: Conference for All Belizean Farmers… The 2018 ACRES USA Eco-Ag Conference & Trade Show is scheduled for December 4th -7th, in Louisville, Kentucky. Richard and Sandra McLeish recognized opportunity when they realized Jamaica’s 5th most produced crop, pumpkins, were also very much under-utilized. The General Court of the European Union upheld “restrictions introduced at the EU level in 2013 against the insecticides…” Vanilla prices: Madagascar provides 79% of the world’s vanilla. Shortages there have a wide ripple… The Ministry of National Development’s Rural Water Supply Unit hosted a Well Drillers’ Workshop… BIOCHAR: Commercial chicken farms produce an impressive amount of poultry litter… Substitutables: The Directorate General for Foreign Trade reports that the seasonality of locally produced fruits and vegetables is reflected in the import data of agricultural products. And much more…

Ag Calendar

Blogs

Hopkins Mangu Fest Turnt Up
Hopkins Mangu (mango in Garifuna) Fest—Fruit, Family, & Fun and now home of the “raffle cup” was held June 2nd and June 3rd. Next year’s date is already set for June 8th and 9th. Hopkins, often referred to as the friendliest village in Belize, celebrates the beginning of mango season with a free two-day family-friendly festival that showcases unique culinary delights and Hopkins’ culture, music, and community spirit. Madisco sponsored a prize for the “best food.” Chef Sean Kuylen’s mango pulled pork on tostones won, with Miss Deb’s “mango tango burger” a close second. Honorable mentions went to Almira and Desmond Augustine with their chocolate dipped mangos and to Rose Lopez and her spicy chicken wings in mango sauce.

It’s the Kind of Place Where You Lose Your Shoes
Don’t be surprised to find picking up your shoes on your Ambergris Caye Belize to do list. So far in my travels, I have never encountered a place where it is so common to “lose” your shoes. This occurred to me the other day as I was explaining to my personal trainer that I was not hiding a guy somewhere in my apartment and that a visiting friend had walked out the door without his shoes. I was pretty sure she would notice the foreign footwear and I was right, she did. Sarah also made a comment that she often leaves her shoes at the beach when working out with the Wayo’s gang in Boca Del Rio and has to call Wayo’s wife Dee to collect them for her. This does not only apply to locals and expats. I have known many a traveler that got so comfortable, it was only natural they forgot they wore shoes to the bar.

Thursday Photos Around San Pedro
MAN! has it been windy. Hot hazy and windy on Ambergris Caye as a festival weekend approaches. Gray skies cleared yesterday afternoon and things are looking absolutely gorgeous today. I headed to town for a meeting and took lots of photos. Here are a bunch of them. Events over the next few days: San Pedro Lobster Festival culminates with the BLOCK PARTY on Saturday night starting at 6pm.

International Sources

Belizean police testimony needed to advance alleged child abduction case
The case of a 33-year-old woman accused of abducting her child and fleeing the country remains stalled, as the Crown and defence seek assistance on the matter from police officials in Belize. The woman cannot be named to protect the identity of her child. The defence had intended to launch an application under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms in May, arguing that the accused was denied fundamental justice by Canadian officials, saying they had no right to have her arrested on foreign soil and sent back to Canada. For the application to proceed however, they require testimony from several police officers in the South American country who were involved in the woman’s arrest and detention within their borders.

Videos

WE WENT TO BELIZE!! 2018 MOM/DAUGHTER SENIOR TRIP, 17min. jewelyy was stolen, jellyfish sting, almost missed our flight, but somehow managed to have the time of our lives

Carrie Bow Cay Belize - CERMES Student Field Trip 2018, 3min. The Climate Change and Water Resources Management students at CERMES head off to Belize to build their knowledge of field skills. Watch as the students recount their experiences at Carrie Bow Cay, Middlesex Bridge and Williams Beach.

Belize May 2018, 6min. Tradewinds Cruising. Snorkeling in Belize 2018.

Talk Ah Di Town June 21, 2018, 37min. Catch Ya'axché Conservation Trust on Talk Ah Di Town, a local tv show, on Thursday, 21st of June 2018 on the PGTV network. In Punta Gorda, the show is aired after the news at 6pm. Tune in to learn about our work here in southern Belize. On the show are Julio Chub, Marchilio Ack, Said Gutierrez, and Maximiliano Caal. We also invited 2015 MGL Farmer of the Year Martin Chiquin to share his experiences working with us.

Maya Bees, 1/2min. We've been told these are 'Maya Bees" and they are good luck. We have two nests of them, so we are doubly blessed! They are teeny-tiny, and stingless (or so we've been told).

A Day in San Antonio, Cayo, 3min. The San Antonio-Cayo fair has been celebrated since the early 1900s. Despite its long tradition, its vitality had waned a bit. To revitalize this important cultural event, we organised ‘A Day in San Antonio’ by connecting culture, nature, and sports. In 2018, we believe that the fair cannot remain as “purely cultural”. While culture is fundamental to the vibrancy of our community, our care for our natural environment is key to sustain the services this provides. In this regard, we aimed to connect the importance of the Elijio Panti National Park (the Park) to the quality of life of the people of San Antonio. The Park provides water for our community, along with other services—services that need to be protected. Here's a recap of the event with special highlight on the Dr. Elijio Panti Cycle Race. Enjoy!

Belize Adventure!, 3min. Journey through- Caye Caulker, Belize. Ambergris Caye, Belize. San Ignacio, Belize. Peten, Guatemala

Turneffe Flats Belize 2013, 6min.

2013 Flyfishing Belize, 23min.

Interview with Dr. Correa in Belize, 3min.

Crystal Cave Belize (Mountain Cow Cave), 2.5min. A Visit to Crystal Cave with Belize Caving Expeditions, so see the famous Wonderland

Belize Zoo night tour, 5min.

Belize Mek We Go in the Maya Museum in San Lazaro,Orange Walk, 18min. Have you ever visited a Maya & Mestizo Museum in Belize? Check the video to know more of our Yucatec Maya ethnicity or as some call it "Maya Mestizo" culture of Northern Belize . Please Note that the Yucatec Maya in Northern Belize may use different terms to identify themselves as Maya, Maya Mestizo , Masewal , Maya Masewal or Mayero all are the same .

June 21, 2018