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February 20, 2019
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 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
Former Mexican government official, accused of illegal entry and money laundering, released from San Pedro police custody
Gonzalo Abelardo Herrera Castilla, a former Mexican government official who served in the Ministry of Public Management in the Mexican State of Quintana Roo, was released from San Pedro police custody after being detained for illegal entry and suspected money laundering. Castilla, who served during the government of ex-governor Roberto Borge Angulo from 2012-2016, had apparently been living on the island for over two years, and is wanted by Mexican authorities for the offense of ‘Illicit use of Power.’
Castilla had been formally arrested by San Pedro police on Saturday, February, 16th, and after being trialled for the mentioned offenses, he was to be transported to Belize City for deportation on Tuesday, February 19th. However, at the last hour, charges were allegedly dismissed and he was released from police custody.
Belize-based Catholic priest Father Oliver Smalls named in list of child sexual offenders
The name of well-known Roman Catholic Priest Father Oliver Smalls Jr., of the Diocese of Belize City-Belmopan, is on a ‘credible’ list of clergymen who have allegedly committed sexual abuse against minors. This list was published by the Catholic Diocese of Richmond, Virginia USA, as they intensify their efforts to assist survivors of abuse.
In a letter published on February 13th by Bishop Barry Knestout of the Richmond parish, he offered deep gratitude and apologies to the victims and survivors.
Wolfe’s Woofer: Experience
“Mario, that guy getting off the boat looks a lot like Alex Gutierrez, doesn’t he?”
“He sure does,” Mario said. “A whole lot. Wait a minute—that is Alex.”
He stood up and yelled, “Oi! Alex!”
Alex joined us at our beachside table where we were drinking our morning coffee.
“Look at you, all dressed up,” Mario said. “Where you going? Wedding or a funeral?”
“This is my business clothes,” Alex said.
Doctor Love: Silver Out-Foxed
Dear Doctor Love,
My fifty-seven year old wife just filed for divorce and I am floored. I don’t beat her or cheat on her. She has had an easy life of raising our two children and being provided for in every respect. We should be able to sit and relax for the rest of our lives. Instead she wants to become this modern couple who learns to sail and do yoga and goes on trips to Mexico or Belize and such. This isn’t a new thing for her. It’s been brewing since the kids left home.
Ambergris Today
Belizean Priest Accused Of Sexual Abuse In USA
Father Oliver Joseph Smalls resident priest of Orange Walk Town, is one of forty-two clergymen who have “a credible and substantiated allegation of sexual abuse” against a child. The Catholic Diocese of Richmond, Virginia, USA published a list where Father Smalls was included. Since the allegations came to light, the Catholic Diocese of Belize and Bishop Lawrence Nicasio have removed Father Smalls from the ministry and is no longer allowed to serve in Belize.
Belize Hosts Press Conference For The 2019 Taipei Lantern Festival “Twinkle Taipei”
The Embassy of Belize to the Republic of China (Taiwan) hosted a press conference on Wednesday, February 13, 2019, to unveil lanterns depicting the Great Blue Hole as well as an array of species of marine life found in the Belize Barrier Reef.
Belizean Priest Accused Of Sexual Abuse In USA
On Thursday, February 14, 2019, the U.S. Embassy hosted the launch of Marie Sharp's brand new "Pure Love" pineapple habanero pepper sauce that aspires to combat gender-based violence. The proceeds of the sale of "Pure Love" will go to Haven House - a non-profit domestic violence shelter--directly benefiting victims of gender-based violence and empowering them to take control and positively transform their lives.
Misc Belizean Sources
Minister Comments On Coco Solo Island Eviction
In our last newscast, we reported on the developments of a case involving a group of fishermen who were allegedly squatting on a sandbar in southern Belize.
The area, located 16 miles southeast of Placencia and north of the Sapodilla Cayes, is known to locals as Coco Solo Island. The Belize Coast Guard claims that the land mass was being illegally occupied by a family which has since been served with an eviction notice.
Amid conflicting reports, Vice Commandant of the Belize Coast Guard Captain Elton Bennett indicated that the area had only been initially inhabited as a fishing camp until permanent structures began surfacing over the last 3 to 5 years.
Paint N Splash
See you this week at from 2-4pm Thursday to paint “A Dock Of A Day”.
PAHO Director, Dr. Carissa F. Ettienne is on an official visit to Belize this week
Dr. Carissa F. Etienne, Director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and Regional Director for the Americas of the World Health Organization (WHO), is on an official visit to Belize this week.
Yesterday she met with management staff and several technical advisors of the Ministry of Health. While several health topics were discussed including non-communicable diseases, road traffic accidents, and the SMART facility projects, she expressed concern about dengue, measles, and diphtheria that is threatening the region at present.
Ministry of Labour, Local Government and Rural Development Holds Technical Meeting with Labour and Employment Officers
The Ministry of Labour, Local Government and Rural Development held a technical meeting with all Labour and Employment Officers today, February 18th.
The meeting began with an opening remark by Dr. Senator Hon. Carla Barnett, Minister of State in the Ministry, who expressed her full support for the work of the Labour Department and also welcomed the new Labour Commissioner, Ms. Ann Marie Thompson.
National Climate Change Office Conducts Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Assessment
The National Climate Change Office through the Fourth National Communication Project will be conducting a Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Mitigation Assessment and Stakeholder Workshop. The workshop will be held on Wednesday, February 20, 2019, at the George Price Centre, Belmopan.
The main objective of the assessment is to conduct a national-level assessment of the impacts of various technologies and practices that affect GHG emissions and will be targeting sectors such as energy, forestry, agriculture, transport, industry, and waste.
Ministry of Works Signs Contract for Rehabilitation of Portion of the George Price Highway
A contract was signed between the Government of Belize and Imer Hernandez Development Company Ltd in the amount of BZ$19,012,935.90 for the rehabilitation of 16.580 km of the George Price Highway, commencing at Blackman Eddy Village and ending at the roundabout in Santa Elena, Cayo District.
The scope of the works includes horizontal and vertical realignment of the roadway to meet international safety standards as well as the upgrading of drainage to improve climate resilience on the road. Also included are the placement of major culverts at key locations, clearing of the road reserve, the removal of any remnant structures, obstructions, construction of safety barriers, sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, bus stops, runoff channels, as well as the marking of road center and edge line markings.
Rules for San Pedro Carnaval
Hey everyone! Carnaval is all about having fun, but we also have to make it safe for all. Here are the rules for the painters and for the traffic.
Take note of the times and make adjustments to your schedules.
We thank you in advance for your cooperation and understanding. ...
Corozal Town Council child friendly initiatives
As a Child Friendly Municipality, Mayor Rigo Vellos and the Corozal Town Council has dedicated its efforts to support child friendly initiatives. This Council has given the Children Advisory Board its full support in all its ventures and will continue to support their plans in the best interest of our children and community. They are the future of this jewel.
BTIA Belmopan Meet and Greet Business Mixer
Inviting all our BTIA Belmopan members! Don't miss out!
Bi-National Clean-up Campaign in Arenal
Today a Bi-National Clean-up Campaign took place in the villages of Arenal-Belize Side and Arenal Guatemala Side. The Clean-up Campaign was organized by Todos por un Mundo Verder of Guatemala, supported by the Friends for Conservation and Development Environmental Youth Group, Caracol-JADE, Benque Volunteers Youth Group, the Guatemalan Military and residents of both villages. Participants had lots of fun while playing and doing icebreakers before the clean-up. This activity is being sponsored by the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives and Supported by FCD
Ascenthium Playing The Bluff
Ascenthium will be playing at The Bluff this Saturday. It's their first fundraiser for their trip to the Wacken Open Air Central America rock competition, which will be held in Panama.
"We're at The Bluff On Saturday hosting our first fundraiser for W.O.A's Central American heat. The band will be jamming and Ascenthium merchandise will be on sale. Come out and help Belize's Metal Battle candidate get to Panama. The Winner of the Preliminaries will represent the region in Germany! Metalheads of Belize, we need your help to start out on the Road To Wacken!"
Volunteers at one of several base camps in Chiquibul used for scarlet macaw survey
We are grateful to all volunteers for their support during the survey. Results coming up.
Corozal Sustainable Future Initiative (CSFI)
The Corozal House of Culture is pleased to invite you to our 7th Anniversary event this Friday February 22, 2019. The event will be showcasing the amazing work carried out by the non-governmental organization; Corozal Sustainable Future Initiative (CSFI). Their work in protection & conservation with key ecosystems in Northern Belize crosses many cultures including Maya, Mennonite, Mestizo and Creole. Please join us for a wonderful day of conservation in Corozal beginning at 9am.
Sixteen farmers have recently harvested 2,187 pounds of cacao beans from Belize's first agroforestry concession
Since establishing the agroforestry concession within the Maya Mountain North Forest Reserve in 2014, Ya’axché has been providing material, equipment, technical and field support to the 31-member farming group – the Trio Farmers Cacao Growers Association. This year, it is projected that the farmers will be harvesting 90,000 pounds of cacao beans from the 936-acre agroforestry concession. Additionally, we are exploring opportunities on how to add value to the cacao being harvested within the forest reserve.
SAC MUYAL
It is the story of a warrior who sought in the forest his beloved who had been stolen by Sac Muyal . On the way he found a snake that told him what he should do to find the girl. Then it was a woman who indicated what he had to do. Later a deer showed him the way he should follow . So did the eagle and the beetle, this is how he arrives at a cave where he finds all those who previously helped him. Each one told him to do something different to get the girl back, but he simply blurred his vision, he ignored them all and woke up like a dream with his beloved in his arms and away from the Sac Muyal who had stolen her.
Attorney General’s Response to the Protest at the Vital Statistics Unit
On February 18, 2019, the People’s United Party (PUP) launched a protest against the Vital Statistics Unit in Belize City in an effort to decry and minimalize the efforts of the Government of Belize to improve the Unit.
The Government does not deny that the Vital Statistics Unit is in need of reforms. On the contrary, the Government recognizes and has taken an intentional executive level decision to place much emphasis, effort and focus on the improvement of the Unit.
Recently, valiant efforts were made to restructure and streamline the Unit, some of which includes, removing the Unit out from under the auspices of the Supreme Court and bringing it under the Attorney General’s Ministry for management and control...
Variation of Cut-Off Date for Registration
The Elections and Boundaries Department hereby notifies the public that the cut-off date for accepting applications for registration of persons who wish to vote in the 10th April, 2019 referendum has been varied from 10th March to 12th MARCH, 2019.
This change in date has become necessary due to the computation of time. Section 55 (b) of the Interpretation Act states: “if the last day of the period is a Saturday, Sunday or public holiday the period shall include the next following day, not being a public holiday”.
Training courses for tourism service providers
Very pleased to receive at the Embassy Mr. John M. Burgos, Executive Director of Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA), with whom we are collaborating to start soon with training courses for tourism service providers in Belize, within the framework of the agreement we signed few months ago.
2019 International Costa Maya Festival
Mark down the dates! August 1-4
Ko’one’ex k k’iinbesik u k’iinil maayaj (Let's go to celebrate Maya day)
March 24th, Blue Creek Village
The Huay Chivo
The Huay Chivo one of the legends from the Yucatec Maya people . The Huay Chivo is a sorcerer who transformed into a goat to harm or do mischievous .
Don't forget to try K's Diner today - grand opening!!! First Southern food diner on the island
Energy Galore... Amazingly Beautiful Day in San Pedro!... Busy FUN... and mark your Calendar for K's Diner Opening on Wednesday, Feb. 20th - #11 Coconut Drive... just S of the Tropic Terminal... Excited... Friends from Winnipeg coming in on Monday... You Gotta Check out Belize - Ambergris Caye - San Pedro Town and GET Out of the COLD!
Channel 7
Police Burn All Those "Found Property"ť Drugs
We report on countless cases of "found property" where police confiscate drugs that were stashed or hidden in abandoned lots and houses. So what really happens to these drugs? Well they are eventually destroyed. We have shown you several drug destructions by fire. One of the more notable ones is the burning of 1, 225 pounds of cocaine that was found in a drug plane in September 2018. Today's destruction didn't quite match that amount and scale but 7news still made it out to an undisclosed location in Western Belize. Courtney Weatherburne has the story.
Man Killed On Way To Pick Up Girlfriend
Tonight, the Lord family from Lords Bank Village is mourning the killing of their loved-one who died after he was shot in Belize City just before midnight last night.
He's Roy Gilbert Lord, a 31 year-old father of 2, and at around 11:35 p.m. last night, he left his girlfriend's home on New Road to pick her up from Tropicana Casino, where she works. He was on foot, and when he arrived on Wilson Street, which is where Tropicana is located, he was approached a gunman rolled up on him and opened fire, hitting the 31 year old multiple times in the head, chest and back. Police were the first to respond and rushed him to the KHMH, but he succumbed to his injuries a short while after.
DOE Dragged Dion Z Back To Court, For Nothing
He cursed and insulted an Environmental Officer in front of a camera for the whole world to see, but the Department of Environment still can't get its case against Dion Zabaneh right.
Today, the Department dragged 43 year old Zabaneh and his 76 year old mother back to court to, again, be charged for a slew of environmental offences. But, But before the charges could be read to them, the DOE's legal consul, told them and their attorney, Emil Arguelles, that his Department "messed",up because the charges were improperly lodged.
Robber Claim Police Shot Him While Handcuffed
Last night we told you how police had shot one of two men who had allegedly robbed a Chinese grocery on Daly street in Belize City. Well, today, they were taken to court. 21 year old Kerun Miguel and 22 year old Jamar Neal hobbled into court; Miguel limping from the shot to the upper right leg, while Neal was seen with what he says is broken left jaw - allegedly delivered to him by police.
The duo appeared before Magistrate Khadeen Palmer where they were read a single charge of robbery with a firearm. Both pleaded not guilty to the charge.
NCFC Condemns Sharing of Explicit Videos Featuring Minors
Tonight, the National Committee for Families and Children is condemning cyber bullying, quote, "which has resulted in the harmful and illegal circulation of sexually explicit video of a teenaged girl." The advocacy organization is referring to the student whom we told you about last night - a teenager who is the victim of what is known as revenge porn, after a video of her performing oral sex act in her uniform emerged on social media and messaging platforms this weekend. We have have since learned that she has not been suspended as we had originally reported - her guardian told 7News they made a family decision to keep her at home so that she would not have to face the backlash from the video at school.
Belize National Basketball Team Shoots For The Big Leagues
Belize is hosting an international basketball tournament this weekend. It's the second round of the FIBA World Cup Americas tournament. In the last tournament in July of last year, Belize faced its regional competitors, and this time, we are facing teams from the Caribbean - namely the Bahamas, Cuba and Antigua.
Belize is fighting for one of four available spots to advance to the final rounds of the FIBA World Cup Americas which will begin in November, 2019. The stakes are high because the FIBA Americas bracket features the hemisphere's basketball powerhouses such as the USA, Canada, Argentina and Brazil.
Belize's Green House Gas Footprint
Water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide: those are a few examples of greenhouse gases. You probably covered those in school but it's more than just a class topic, it is a very real threat. Increased emissions of these gases leads to global warming which causes many other climate complications. The National Climate Change Office is hosting a Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Assessment and Stakeholder Workshop to devise a national GHG mitigation strategy.
Caught With A Home-Made Gun
Today in court, a teenager was remanded for a firearm offence; the cops say he tried to slip away from them in traffic. It happened at around 8:50 last night when police on motorcycle patrol spotted a suspicious young man sitting on a red beach cruiser at the corner of West and Orange Streets. When they approached him, he darted through traffic on Orange Street contrary, going against the flow of traffic.
Police still ran him down, searched him and found a home made firearm loaded with a single round tucked in his pants.
One More Day To Register For ICJ Vote
If you want to vote in the April 10th ICJ referendum, you have an extra two days to register. The Elections and Boundaries Department has announced that Tuesday March 12th, not Sunday March 10th is the cut-off date for accepting voter registration.
The change - according to the department - is simply because the 10th is a Sunday, and Monday the 11th is a holiday. So the final day has to be the first work-day of the week, which is Tuesday, March 12th.
AG Scolds PUP For Vital Stats Protest
And referendum voter readiness - or a lack of it - is why the PUP says they protested yesterday against the Vital Statistics Unit. They say that their voters from all around the country, especially those the rural areas, have been punishing for months as they try in vain to get their important documents from Vital Stats office.
Well, the Attorney General doesn't believe that their motives are so genuine. In fact, he speculates that they are trying to vilify Vital Stats to further their anti ICJ campaign.
PUP Say ICJ Special Agreement Insufficient To Change Borders
And while you have one additional day to get registered and be eligible to vote in the referendum, three local attorneys have produced a detailed legal opinion on the 2008 Special Agreement. They say it does not pave the way clearly for a path to the ICJ.
PUP Parliamentarian Kareem Musa, the former PUP Legal Advisor, Anthony Sylvestre, and attorney Richard "Dickie" Bradley, a former PUP Minister, have done some very detailed research on the Special Agreement, and they are asserting that the Government has made a major misstep.
Big Bad Baby, The King Of New York
Today at the Madison Square Garden in New York, Belizean American, Jarrell "Big Baby" Miller faced off against the World Heavyweight Champion Anthony Joshua in a promotional press conference for the June first bout.
Now these face-off's always have an element of drama, and a whole lot of hype, but in classic Big Baby style, Jarrell took that up another level when he commenced the proceedings with an unexpected shove - straight to the champ's chest - here's what happened:
Ludwig Lightburn Was First
And while Jarrell Miller is now on the world stage, becoming the first Belizean to fight for the world heavyweight title, he's not the first Belizean to be a world class boxer, and to fight at Madison Square Garden. That was Ludwig Lightning Lightburn, and he did it in the 1950's. Lightburn was a world class prizefighter - a light welterweight who was a top ranked title contender.
In 2009, Jules Vasquez spoke with a few relatives to find out about one of the greatest Belizean sportsmen you may have never heard of:..
Channel 5
Roy Lord is Gunned Down on Wilson Street
There was a late night shooting in Belize City on Monday which claimed the life of a young man from Lord’s Bank Village. Police are yet to determine whether the [...]
NCFC Weighs in on Cyber Bullying
The mass circulation of a video clip depicting an underage female student in her high school uniform engaged in a sexual act is repulsive. Since its release over the weekend, [...]
The Allegation against Father Smalls is ‘Credible’ and ‘Substantiated’
The publication of a list of forty-two priests with ‘credible and substantiated’ allegation of sexual abuse against a child by the Richmond Diocese includes the name of Father Oliver Smalls. [...]
Up In Marijuana Smoke
All roads led west this morning as a convoy of police vehicles made its way to an undisclosed location where a huge haul of drugs was incinerated. It’s part of [...]
2008 Special Agreement Between Belize and Guatemala ‘Invalid’
Ten years ago, on December eighth, 2008 the Foreign Ministers of Belize and Guatemala signed, at OAS headquarters, the Special Agreement between Guatemala and Belize to submit the territorial, insular [...]
Special Agreement Needs 2/3 Parliamentary Approval
According to Attorney Anthony Sylvestre, since the Special Agreement commits Belize to hold a referendum with the intention to settle the dispute at the I.C.J. which will rule on Belize’s [...]
Less than 2 Months for the I.C.J. Referendum
With fifty more days to go until the April tenth I.C.J. Referendum, government still has the opportunity to take the Special Agreement to the House. Kareem Musa, Attorney “The [...]
P.U.P. Takes on Vital Stats Unit over ‘Incompetence’
If you have ever been to the Vital Statistics Unit, you probably have experienced the frustration that comes along with that visit. People from every single district have been complaining [...]
Tour Guide says Placencia Not Benefiting from Cruise Ship Tourism
At a recent press conference FECTAB President, Yhony Rosado raised concerns on two issues he says that Belize City tour guides would feel the negative effects of. According to Rosado, [...]
PAHO Hosts Regional Meeting in Belize
The Pan American Health Organization kicked off its country and sub-regional managers meeting in Belize City today. The meeting brings together health directors from Central America, Cuba, Mexico and the [...]
Meet Team Belize for the Upcoming FIBA Qualifier
The 2019 season of the National Elite Basketball League has been postponed for this week in anticipation of the regional FIBA qualifying tournament, which will be held from February twenty-second [...]
C.E.O. Gentle says Philip Goldson Highway is Being Upgraded to Meet International Standards
Earlier this month, a woman lost her life jumping the barriers in the middle of the Philip Goldson Highway. The pedestrian, Marlena Mortis, was knocked down and killed as she [...]
2 Charged for Kum Hua Robbery
Two men have been charged for the robbery at Kum Hua Store in Belize City. Kerun Miguel and Jamar Neal appeared in court before Magistrate Khadeen Palmer today where they [...]
Charges Withdrawn Again from Primrose Gabourel & Dion Zabaneh
Seventy-six-year-old Primrose Gabourel and her son forty-three-year-old Dion Zabaneh were back in court today after the Department of Environment brought charges once again for failure to adhere to stop orders [...]
Street Art Festival 2019 Takes Place This Weekend
The ninth edition of Street Art Festival takes place this weekend in downtown Belize City. The festival is the premier event of the National Institute of Culture and History, through [...]
LOVE FM
Kareem Musa: Special Agreement needs to be ratified by National Assembly
The debate on whether or not to take Guatemala’s unfounded claim to Belize to the International Court of Justice, ICJ, has the country divided. Last month, Cabinet officially announced that it is supporting a yes vote to the upcoming ICJ referendum, since it believes that the ICJ is the only solution. Meanwhile, there are others …
Despite disability, DJ Jaelen performed exceptionally well
The twin town leg of the second annual Belikin Belize DJ Championship was held in San Ignacio last week Saturday. DJ Iconic (VO SHYNE DEEJAYS ) emerged victorious after competing against three other deejays. Love news spoke with Music Ambassador, Shyne Barrow, about the competition. Shyne Barrow Music Ambassador: “So you have four DJ’s and …
A rally for Wesley Student who was victimized by video
Over the weekend, two videos of sexual acts between male and females were leaked on social media. While the woman shown one video was offered much sympathy and support, the minor, for the most part, had been left to deal with the harsh consequences of school discipline coupled with public scrutiny and domestic tension. There …
PAHO holds annual managers’ meeting in Belize
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is hosting its annual managers’ meeting where health leaders are discussing the achievements, as well as the challenges which are being faced by the health sectors within the region. At the meeting, Dr. Francis Morey, the Deputy Director of Health Service for the Ministry of Health, spoke about the …
Faber welcomes the challenge from the Opposition in Collet
Area Representative for Collet, Patrick Faber, is getting a new opponent under the People’s United Party. A few weeks ago, we told you of City Councillor, Oscar Arnold, who has his eyes on the division for the next general election. Faber has never expressed concerns over any political opposition even when his UDP colleague, John …
Belizeans Car Jacked in Mexico
Places like Cancun, Playa Del Carmen and Tulum are popular destinations for visitors to Mexico. But there are other places outside Quintana Roo that Belizeans tend to travel. A group of 5 Belizean car dealers were returning from the USA towing vehicles when they were assaulted by carjackers who injured Ceasar Quiroz who was the …
Mexicans busted with cash and other offences
A joint team of CIB, SB, QRT and Customs Personnel conducted an operation on Saturday on Ambergris Caye which led to the apprehension of (MEXICAN ARRESTS VO) two Mexican nationals, 40 year old Manuel Villanueva and fifty year old Gonzalo Albelardo Herrera Castilla. Castilla, a Mexican Businessman from Chetumal, Quintana Roo was fined $1500 Belize …
Lords Bank resident Roy Lord is gunned down in Belize City
There was a murder on the north side of Belize City just before midnight. 31-year-old, Roy Lord was on his way to pick up his girlfriend from her workplace on Newtown Barracks when he was killed by an armed male who approached him on Wilson Street. The New Road resident was hit to the left …
Attorney General says PUP threw a cheap shot at Vital Stats
On Monday the People’s United Party (PUP) launched a protest against the Vital Statistics Unit in Belize City. A few minutes ago, the Attorney General’s sent a response regarding the PUP’s actions. It noted that the Government does not deny that the Vital Statistics Unit is in need of reform. The A.G. said the Unit …
New Labour Commissioner welcomed to the fold
The new Labour Commissioner, Ann Marie Thompson, was welcomed to the fold of the Ministry of Labour yesterday during a meeting of labour and employment officers. The meeting was focused on engaging the department’s officers in a technical meeting to look at a way forward with more efficiency and improved services. Chief Executive Officer, Sharon …
New Labour Commissioner welcomed to the fold
The new Labour Commissioner, Ann Marie Thompson, was welcomed to the fold of the Ministry of Labour yesterday during a meeting of labour and employment officers. The meeting was focused on engaging the department’s officers in a technical meeting to look at a way forward with more efficiency and improved services...
Negative impacts of Gillnets in Belize
In recent weeks, when we hear the word “gillnet”, we tend to associate it with our fishermen, sustainable fishing, and the Belize Fisheries Department. But exactly: what is gillnet and why are we having a debate about it? Love News traveled to Placencia where we spoke with Grayson Sierra, a Members of the Placencia Sports …
Minister of Trade responds to FECTAB’s concerns
The Republic of China (Taiwan) latest contribution came in the form of sixty thousand US dollars earmarked for trade development. It was an initiative that both Belize and the Republic of China (Taiwan) found satisfactory; the Federation of Cruise Tourism Association of Belize, FECTAB, however, is not too pleased as they feel excluded as they …
Thief gets shot and got 44 dollars in Coins
A daring heist on Daly Street in Belize City resulted in many shots being fired and a suspect getting an injury in the leg. But the police say that the thief didn’t get much. After getting shot, one of the suspect had about forty four dollars in coins from the store which is located near …
Pyromaniac on the loose in PG?
Three vehicles were torched in the Toledo District on the sixth of February. The vehicles were the property of Christon Foster, Patrick Avila and Burlington Jones and the police labeled the incidents as arson. Could it be the work of a pyromaniac? Assistant Commissioner of Police Joseph Myvett says that one more vehicle was burnt …
Deputy PM says Political Elements in Bar while former UWI Professor drafts ICJ Opinion
Stephen Vasciannie is a Jamaican law professor and politician who had served as a diplomat as well as a Deputy Solicitor-General and principal of the Norman Manley Law School. Vasciannie proffered his services to the Bar Association of Belize several weeks ago to pen a legal opinion on Belize’s territorial dispute with Guatemala. His position …
Fire leaves a family of twelve homeless
An early morning fire engulfed and destroyed a home in the Gungulung area in Belize City, displacing a family of twelve. Owners, Kirk Davis and Luwina Garnett told us that the entire family woke up just in time to save their lives. Unfortunately, however, they were unable to save their personal belongings. Kirk Davis: “We …
The effects of AOEI on the financial institutions
In 2017, the Automatic Exchange of Information Law was passed making it mandatory for financial institutions to submit information to the Income Tax Department on accounts owned by residents of countries with which Belize signed a declaration. The first submission was made last year and will continue annually. Love News spoke with Kareem Patnett, Tax …
Wesley receives donation to help secure the school
Wesley Lower School has had several break-ins which have set the school back tremendously and hinder the students learning. Hon. Tracy Taegar-Panton, the Area Representative for Albert, came to the school aid by garnering assistance from the business community and today a sizeable donation was made to the school to purchase surveillance cameras in the …
Amandala
Fr. Oliver Smalls, Jr., removed from duties in Belize
The Roman Catholic Bishop of Belize, Most Rev. Lawrence Sydney Nicasio, issued a press release today, Monday, February 18, dropping a bombshell, saying that “Fr. Oliver Smalls, Jr., of the Diocese of Belize City-Belmopan, has been named by the Diocese of Richmond in Virginia (USA) as one of the priests who have ‘credible allegations of sexual abuse of minors.’”
“On February 13, 2019 the Diocese of Richmond in Virginia (USA) released the names of priests who have credible allegations of sexual abuse of minors. Fr. Oliver Smalls, Jr. of the Diocese of Belize City-Belmopan was named as one of the abusers,” the Roman Catholic Chancery Office press release said.
PUP leads protest against Vital Statistics office
With the International Court of Justice referendum just around the corner on April 10, public attention is once more focused on the Vital Statistics Unit, which is the office where citizens go to get birth certificates and other documents necessary to complete the re-registration process in order for them to get re-registered so that they can vote in the upcoming referendum.
This afternoon, the Leader of the Opposition, People’s United Party, Hon. John Briceńo, along with other PUP area representatives and standard bearers, descended on the Vital Statistics Unit at its new address on Queen Street.
Fire destroys 2 houses in Gungulung
Two timber houses belonging to Kirk Davis and his family were completely destroyed by fire in the Gungulung area in Lake Independence at about 1:30 this morning, and as a result, 9 persons have lost all their possessions and are homeless. Luckily, no one was injured.
Houses owners Kirk Davis and his common-law wife, Lowena Garnett, told us that they were sleeping in their bedroom, when at about 1:30, they were awakened by heat and smoke, and looked out to see what was happening, and that was when they saw the lower flat of the house burning.
House collapses on Marigold Lane
A timber house located on Marigold Lane in the Lake Independence area, owned by Nevin Flowers and his family, collapsed at about 6:00 this morning. Luckily, the three persons who were in the house escaped unhurt.
Flowers, his girlfriend and his mother were in the house when they heard a loud creak, and the house rocked backwards, then the back portion of the house collapsed.
Wesley School on Albert Street burglarized again
Wesley School, located on Albert Street, was once again burglarized. The break-in occurred sometime last night in the principal’s office, but due to a school activity that was conducted today, a check could not be concluded to ascertain all that was stolen.
When the principal and her staff went to the school this morning, she found that her office had been broken into and ransacked.
SHJC gets 10 new classrooms
Sacred Heart Junior College (SHJC), home to about 568 students, has added ten new much needed classrooms to its campus. The school recognized the need for the new classrooms after finding it difficult to house all students in the 7 classrooms they previously had, and having to resort to accommodating additional students in classrooms which belonged to their high school division.
At SHJC’s inception in 1999, the school only had 90 students, and was only a night school. In 2014, they started providing classes during the day, and the demand for those day classes have increased greatly, so the classrooms will be utilized fully.
NEBL takes a break for upcoming National Team games at the Civic
Two games were played this past weekend, which saw the top 4 teams already jostling for playoff positioning and tie-breakers, as the competition starts to heat up in the NEBL, making every game more crucial than the other.
Friday night saw the battle of the two city teams clashing for bragging rights, but more importantly, for a huge win in a very tight race for a playoff spot. The game was very close from tip-off, as Mirage Smart Belize Hurricanes was able to grab a marginal 18–17 lead at the end of the first quarter, which they gave up by intermission, with Belize City Defenders entering the second half with a 36–34 advantage.
4 teams, 2 in each group, still undefeated at Week 3 of National Women’s League 2019
It was another exciting week of women football, as Week 3 games were played across the country over the weekend, 3 each on Saturday and Sunday, in the National Amateur Women’s League 2018-2019 Closing Season. In the North Group, Belize District’s Black Orchid and Cayo’s Verdes Rebels are still undefeated, while the South Group leaders, Belmopan’s Jewel Fury and Rumberas of Independence are also still without a loss. Incidentally, not only are Jewel Fury undefeated, but they are yet to concede a single goal.
Gamboa gift + Sagastume save = 1-nil road win for San Pedro over BDF in PLB Week 6
A miscue by BDF goalkeeper Tevin Gamboa, and a penalty stop by San Pedro goalkeeper Selvin Sagastume combined to secure a 1-nil win for visiting San Pedro Pirates FC over BDF FC at the MCC Grounds yesterday; allowing the Pirates to maintain 2nd place in the standings (tied at 12 pts with Bandits Sport) at Week 6 of the Premier League of Belize (PLB) 2018-2019 Closing Season.
3rd Annual City Boys Grassroots Tournament starts Saturday
The City Boys Football Club is currently hosting its 3rd Annual Grassroots 10 & Under Football Tournament 2019.
This year’s tournament will consist of 8 teams – Warriors FC, St. John Vianney, Belize United FC, City Boys Jr., Ladyville Rising Stars, Carlston Elite, Reality Youths, and Poor & Famous.
Belize can’t gloat about her democracy
Our neighbor to the west and south, Guatemala, tried democracy and if we are to judge by recent developments in that country, they don’t like the taste of it. In the 1950s, when Guatemala had set up a government that was trying to correct the imbalances created in an economy dominated by the banana industry, there was collusion between some Guatemalan politicians and American interests and the progressive government was toppled.
Later, as a direct result of the coup that replaced the progressive government, Guatemala would sink into a terrible and tragic war, from 1960 to 1996, that would see 200,000 Guatemalans, mostly Maya, dead or disappeared by their military.
Why UDP fears postponing referendum
Most parents are good teachers and teachers are all great, but history is the most fabulous teacher of all. You get burned by a match once and no one ever has to tell you what hot is. You eat a lot of chicharón and nobody has to tell you that you will burp until you are sick. Don’t eat a lot of beans. If you are lactose-intolerant, ditto with staying away from too much cow milk. If you are around company, looks directed your way might make you feel unloved, unwanted.
Pastors go to Bible school and when they come out they act like they are very smart. In fact, the Bible and other religious books contain a lot of important historical lessons.
Marcia Lopez, 22, dies after injuries from monstrous three-vehicle Ladyville collision
At about 5:30 yesterday evening, Marcia Lopez, 22, a resident of San Pablo, Orange Walk District, who was a mother of 2 toddlers, 6 months and 2 years old, was standing in front of the North Gas Station, located on the Philip Goldson Highway near Mile 9 in Ladyville, waiting to get a bus to go home, when she was knocked down and crushed under a loaded sand truck, which was one of three vehicles that were involved in a collision that occurred in front of the gas station.
Robert Brown, 37, charged with murder in alleged love triangle, committed to Supreme Court trial
Robert Brown, 37, a heavy-duty equipment operator from Mitchell Estate, Ladyville, who was charged with the murder of Gavin Palmerston, 41, was committed to stand trial in the April session of the Supreme Court, commencing April 2, after a preliminary inquiry was held today by Magistrate Emerson Banner.
Brown, who was represented by attorney Kareem Musa, had agreed to paper committal.
Bare-faced piracy right in front of Belize City
Five fishermen from Copperbank, Corozal District, were held up and robbed at gunpoint by two pirates, one of whom was armed, and an assortment of the seafood the fishermen had caught, worth about $3,200, was stolen.
The two thieves then drove away in a speedboat.
Lloyd Flores, one of the five fishermen, told police that at about 1:30 yesterday afternoon, Thursday, they were sailing from Belize City back to Copperbank, when about a mile from Belize City, which is almost right in front of the harbor, a white speedboat, in which two men were traveling, drove up to their boat.
Trial date set for Danny Mason and 4 others for beheading murder of Pastor Llewelyn Lucas
In July 2016, the shocking murder of Dangriga pastor Llewellyn Lucas made national and regional headline news when his head was found in the back of a pickup truck in Belmopan. Five men would later be charged for Lucas’ murder, but William “Danny” Mason, a man with a number of political connections in the governing United Democratic Party, was fingered as the mastermind behind the disturbing murder.
After more than two years since the accused men were charged with the murder, the Belmopan Supreme Court today set a trial date for the Crown to proceed with its case. Justice Antoinette Moore will be sitting without a jury on March 12 to hear the case against Danny Mason, Terrence Fernandez, Keiron Fernandez, Ashton Vanegas, and Ernest Castillo.
The Reporter
Bishop Wright ‘Highlights The Role Of The Church’
President of the Belize Council of Churches, Bishop Philip Wright has said that if any credible allegation of sexual abuse against a member of clergy turns out to be true, it would be outrageous, and would impact the Church tremendously because of the role that the Church plays in our society.
Public Witness Drugs Destroyed By Lawmen VIA Social Media
Today, the media and anyone with a social media link was able to witness the work being done by our law enforcement professionals to distroy the tons of drugs seized in the past few months.
Roy Gilbert Lord – Shot On Wilson St. Dies At K.H.M.H
Details have emerged in the murder of Roy Gilbert Lord, 31. Preliminary investigations reveal that Lord had just left a home on New Road at 11:45pm and was on Wilson Street heading toward the Tropicana Casino when he was approached by a gunman who shot him three times.
Breaking Belize News
Police Department destroys large amount of drugs
The Belize Police Department today destroyed a large quantity of drugs at an undisclosed location in […]
GOB: Vast improvements made at Vital Statistics
On February 18, the People’s United Party (PUP) staged a protest against the Vital Statistics Unit […]
2018 exports second lowest in 15 years
Belize’s export revenues for the year 2018 amounted to just under $399 million, making it […]
Cut-off date for re-registration amended
The Elections and Boundaries Department notifies the public that the cut-off date for accepting applications […]
National Student Union of Belize thanks students
On behalf of the National Student Union of Belize, the History Club and the Music/Art Club of the University of Belize, we would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all those who made the peace march possible […]
Authorities searching for 4 suspects after home invasion in Camalote
There was a home invasion this morning in Camalote Village, Cayo. According to reports, the […]
“Civic” to host pre-qualifying tournament for FIBA Americup 2021
The Belize National Basketball Team returns to action this weekend as hosts to one of […]
National Climate Change Office conducts Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Assessment
The National Climate Change Office through the Fourth National Communication Project will be conducting a […]
Rene Montero, Minister of Works: Hernandez won the contract because he was the most qualified
Yesterday, the Government of Belize and Imer Hernandez Development Limited signed a $19 million contract for phase […]
Galen has an “Affordable & Stress-Free” Financial Aid Plan that’s Right for You!
Earning a degree today is the best investment one can get to help prepare for a lifetime of […]
Fire leaves a dozen homeless
A fire on Holy Emmanuel Street (often referred to as “Gungulung”) in Belize City has […]
Ministry of Labour, Local Government and Rural Development holds Technical meeting with Labour and Employment Officers
The Ministry of Labour, Local Government and Rural Development held a technical meeting with all […]
Man killed while walking on Belize City’s northside
Just before midnight, there was a shooting on the north side of Belize City. The […]
Police investigating rape of 2 teenage girls
Police are investigating the rape of two minors. The first incident occurred on Valentine’s Day. […]
Father Smalls proclaims his innocence
Father Oliver Smalls Jr, who stands accused of sexual abuse of a minor in the US […]
Fire hearth cooking – a Belizean love affair!
There is just something about food cooked over an open flame that makes it ten times better for me. Maybe it’s the cultural significance, knowing that our grandmothers and great-grandmothers labored outside on the fogon (fire hearths) to provide delicious meals for their families? Or maybe it’s that unique smoky taste that can only be achieved from cooking on an open fire? Whatever it may be, fogon cooking has a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of Belizeans. From our coconut rice and beans to our soups, it’s always better when it’s cooked this way!
You have to see it to Belize it! It’s un-Belize-able!
When I think of Belize, the one thing that comes to mind is the famous Blue Hole and people swimming with the nurse sharks. Little did I know that there’s more than meets the eye.
If Maldives has atolls, Belize has “cayes” which consists of over 200 islands. It is a land of mountains, tropical jungles, Mayan ruins and has the second largest barrier reef in the world next to Australia.
Since our resort was located in the town of San Pedro, we had to board a small plane operated by Tropic Air which is a small 20-seater twin engine. The flight time is 15 minutes so be ready with your camera because the aerial view of the island is breathtaking!
JOURNEY TO CROOKED TREE VILLAGE: AN AUTHENTIC SLICE OF BELIZE
It’s 11am when we leave Belize City. Hot air begins to fill the bus, save for the occasional breeze squeezing through a small window opening. It won’t slide farther; I’d tried. Sandwiched into a school bus-sized seat, duffel and tote bags on my lap and knees pressed into the back of the seat ahead, I’m feeling envious of my neighbor whose legs are dangling above the floor. He must be six or seven, I reckoned. The aisle is packed with his classmates. I can’t make out their conversations, but I can see them trying to peek out the windows, holding on to the seat backs and balancing their backpack-strapped bodies.
It's getting hard to keep up with all the new stuff opening up in Belize!
With two locations in Belize now, San Pedro and Placencia, our team has really had our eyes opened to how much new stuff happens and/or opens each season. There are a lot of very smart/hardworking locals, or people who come to Belize, with good intentions. They see unmet needs, and many of them are successful in filling these. While we wish every great new place would stick around forever - and many great ones do - we will try to keep you updated, on the very best experiences you can have while you are here!!
So just in little Placencia - here's a taste of the already opened, or coming soon, new places to try. If you were here even last high season, you would have a ton of memorable new experiences...
Placencia Street Art Festival 2019
Every year, the small fishing village of Placencia comes alive as one of the world’s narrowest main street is turned into an interactive art and music festival venue. This 4,000 feet long street will become the host for painters, sculptors, musicians, poets, photographers and vendors from all over country.
Artists and will display their masterpieces and handicrafts along the central sidewalk- and yes sidewalk and street are used interchangeably since this village’s central side doubles as the main street.
This festival will showcase an extensive variety of displays, games, drinks, live music, and poetry readings, as this popular festival celebrates the very essence of Belize’s arts and culture. February 9th and 10th is sure to be a fulfilled weekend.
6 Things to Do in San Ignacio, Belize
Feed iguanas, shop for one-of-a-kind jewelry and learn about the traditional chocolate-making process in in San Ignacio.
The perfect base to explore the nearby Maya sites, this small, friendly town in the Cayo District is also filled with sights worth discovering.
El Gran Carnaval de San Pedro
Ambergris Caye, the largest Caye in Belize, loves nothing more than to celebrate. Whether its beach parties at Easter, Lobsterfest in June or parades for Independence Day in September, there is always something fun going on. El Gran Carnaval which takes place every year the week before Lent is one of the local favorites.
The history of Carnaval goes way back to 12th Century Europe when people took to the streets to celebrate with masks and eat and drink as much as they could before Lent. The tradition was brought by The European settlers to the Yucatan peninsula and eventually over time, to Northern Belize and the small village of San Pedro. Today, San Pedro is the only town in Belize, that continues to celebrate Carnaval. Over the years the celebration has changed somewhat, but many of the original traditions remain.
A Love for Animals and Traveling Kindly
Ka’ana and its team have always been passionate about the welfare of our local furry friends. From fostering dogs and cats to rescuing howler monkeys and aiding them back to health; our team will go to great lengths to protect these members of our community. So when we were approached by Kind Traveler, the first socially conscious “give and get” hotel booking platform, about joining their impressive roster of hotels it was a no brainer for us to say yes and to choose Cayo Animal Welfare Society (CAWS) as our charitable partner. Kind Traveler empowers travelers to not just book a hotel, but to be a force of good by having the booker additionally donate $10 or more to a charity that will benefit the health and wellness of individuals, animals and the environment nationally or within the area of the hotel they are staying in.
ADO BUS FROM CANCUN TO BELIZE CITY
Belize is located just south of Mexico’s famed Yucatan Peninsula, so many travelers are interested in information on how to get from Cancún to Belize City or vice versa.
The cheapest option by far is to take the bus. The ADO Bus company operates the sole Cancún-Belize City route with an express service that operates each way twice per day.
From the main bus terminal in Cancún, the bus leaves at either 7:30 AM or 10:15 PM. The busstops at Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and then Bacalar before crossing the border into Belize. The bus also makes brief stops in Corozal Town and Orange Walk Town before arriving at the central bus terminal in Belize City. Transit time is approximately eight hours.
Going back, the bus departs Belize City at 11:00 AM and 7:30 PM with the same stops along the way, arriving at the Cancún airport approximately eight and a half hours later.
THE ATOLLS AND OUTER CAYES OF BELIZE
With over 450 islands on the outer part of the great Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the second-largest barrier reef in the world, this part of the reef is home to some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling sites on the planet.
Atolls are ring-shaped coral formations that are located on the upper slopes of gigantic submarine volcanoes, many of which have islands in their interior. These formations and the dozens of islands strung along the outer portion of the Belize Barrier Reef are home to exclusive resorts and some of the most popular destinations in the country, including Glover’s Reef, the Turneffe Islands, and Lighthouse Reef.
Common Languages Spoken in Belize
Belize is completely different than all of its neighbors in Central America because English is the official language of Belize. All government communiques, road signs, and official documents in the country are written in English, but in practice, most residents of Belize speak Kriol as their first language. In addition, most Belizeans are fluent in two or more languages.
Sometimes spelled Creole, Kriol is much more than just a dialect of English. Although Kriol is relatively easy to parse when written, it can be difficult to understand for people who only speak standard English. However, most people in Belize can speak standard English and use it when communicating with visitors from other countries.
I Drank for Three Days Straight and Got a Big Result
I was invited to do a 3-day juice cleanse a while back by Justin at Juice Dive. Being as my “well before new years” goal was to get my abs back, I decided there was no time like now to bite the bullet and do it.
While I do not do it often, I am no stranger to cleansing and I know how my body tends to react. Even so, I asked Justin a few preliminary questions (below) so I knew a bit more about their cleanse and what I was doing. Megan and the Juice Dive staff were extremely helpful as well. It was mostly Megan that I dealt with during my cleanse and she checked up on me while delivering.
International Sources
48 CASOS DE CONJUNTIVITIS AL DÍA EN YUCATÁN
48 cases of conjunctivitis a day in Yucatan. Ouch! Look out, Belize, you next.
The Essential Food Experience to Have in Belize
The Metro has a nice article about culinary experiences in Belize. It focuses mostly on Cayo, where we've had 5 restaurants opening in a little over a month's time. Pop's is mentioned, as is the Guava Limb, and the Marie Sharp's Tourist Center, where the author participated in a cooking class. Chaa Creek got a great recommendation too.
"Imagine a place that’s so immersed in nature that, as you fly into its international airport, all you can see are lush green forests.
Imagine while hopping between one city to another on a commuter plane, the sea below you is so clear that you can actually spot a sting ray from the air. That was my experience of Belize, a central American country that considers itself part of the Caribbean.
3 great tiny hotel options to look on that list between Belize and Mexico.
Casa Dos Lirios,
Cayo Espanto Island Resort,
Caribbean Beach Cabanas.
Latest Lionfish invasion map
Hot off the press from Dr Pamela Schofield and Amy Benson of USGS, the very latest lionfish invasion map.
What Is the Great Blue Hole?
The Great Blue Hole, located off the coast of Belize, is one of the world's true natural wonders. Now we're finally learning more about what's inside this mysterious phenomenon: A high-profile mission of exploration featuring billionaire Richard Branson recently took a submarine down to its depths, creating a high-resolution 3D map.
CARIBBEAN TOURISM ORGANISATION SEES BRIGHT FUTURE FOR REGION IN 2019
The Caribbean Tourism Organisation was predicting a strong showing in 2019 for the region’s visitor arrival numbers, even as many countries are still recovering from the impact of the 2017 hurricane season.
A picture of gradual recovery was how the CTO reflected on the Caribbean’s performance in terms of tourism last year in its latest report.
Stopover arrivals in the region were actually down 2.3% in comparison to 2017.
But the actual number of visitors, $29.9 million, came out as the second highest on record, beaten only by 2017’s record-breaking $30.6 million visitors.
Videos
Birding on Crooked Tree Lagoon at the crack of dawn, 40sec. such a wild, colorful scene.
First Baptist Neches Belize Mission Trip 2019, 10min.
Belize October 2018, 3min. Listen to the howler monkeys in the jungles of Belize plus a short 3-minute journey through the countryside.
The Year of the Pig: Chinese Community in Belize Celebrates its New Year, 3min. It’s the Year of the Earth Pig on the traditional Chinese calendar and over the weekend, the local Chinese community held a grand event at the SCA Compound to celebrate with Belizean friends. In attendance were representatives from various private and public stakeholders, including members of the Belize City Council, Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Faber and Governor General Sir Colville Young.
Belize is a fishing paradise (catch clean and cook SIWA), 20min. when i gone up the coast, i had all ready to carry with me Shane Meredith, hey i feel bad you could not gone fishing with me none the less hope you enjoy your stay here in Belize. it turn to be and awesome trip.
Belize snorkeling, 2.5min. Caye Caulker Hol Chan Marine Reserve Shark Alley Ragamuffin Tours.
Belize Fly Fishing 2018, 3.5min. Belize is an epic destination for those of us that love connecting with fish on the fly. We fished with Blue Horizon and stayed at Thatch Caye during this trip. This is a destination for all types of anglers. I had a blast with the guides of Blue Horizon and had a ton of fun doing a bit of DIY fly fishing on Thatch Caye as well. We also had the opportunity to test are still relatively new(at the time) El Ocho combo on bones and other random fish.
Belize en Mexico 2019, travelling from Amsterdam, 10min. Samenvatting van onze reis door Belize en Mexico in januari / februari 2019
Belize, 12min.
Wagiya SC vs Freedom Fighters FC, 2.5hr.
Marie Sharp special mission, 5min. Marie Sharp is a well-known household name in Belize and abroad thanks to her collection of tasty jams and delicious pepper sauces. On Thursday, February 14th, the company added one more pepper sauce to their line of products but this one has a special mission - to spread awareness on Gender-based Violence. Here’s more on the launch.
Students of Saint John's college immerse themselves into the Yucatec Maya (Máasewal) culture, 4min. In the Maya village of Patchakan Corozal. The Yucatec Maya group To'one Masehualo'on and Maya elders like Nojoch Mak Felipe Tzul and others recieved the students.
If you wondered how golf carts get transported between the split at Caye Caulker... here’s your answer, 10sec.
Advice to parents on how to begin a conversation with your children about sexuality, 52min. Aimee Jex, Professional Counselor, was our guest to give parents advice on how to begin a conversation with your children about sexuality.
How can anthropology contribute to Belize's development?, 33min. How can anthropology contribute to Belize's development? Galen University is leading that conversation with its celebration of World Anthropology Day. Our guests talked to us about the program and the activities they have planned to mark the awareness day. They explained that a better understanding of our country's anthropology is beneficial to development of policy. On our couch:
Sherry Gibbs - Dean of Faculty of Arts & Science.
Viandra Betancourt - Student, Galen University.
Jessica Perez - Student, Galen University.
The Belize Men's Basketball National Team is hosting the FIBA World Cup qualifier tournament, 28min. The Belize Men's Basketball National Team is hosting the FIBA World Cup qualifier tournament. Teams from Bahamas, Antigua and Cuba will be in country for the three day tournament. We spoke with members of the national team about their preparations and expectations for the games. The games will be played on February 22nd-24th at the Belize Civic Center.
National Trade Policy Launch of Belize, 33min. In November 2018 Cabinet approved Belize's first ever National Trade Policy Launch of Belize's First National Trade Policy. We spoke with representatives of the Ministry of Investment, Trade & Commerce about the objectives of the policy. On our couch:
Duane Belisle - CEO, Ministry of Investment, Trade & Commerce.
Andy Sutherland - Director General, Directorate for Foreign Trade.
Terrence Simfukwe - National Trade Advisor, Commonwealth Secretariat.
Lisa Shoman - The law and sexual cyber bullying, 39min. Activist and attorney-at-law, Lisa Shoman, spoke with us about the law and sexual cyber bullying. She explained that she is currently working on draft legislation to improve the laws to better protect victims.
The Belize School Counsellor Association, 25min. The Belize School Counsellor Association exists to support counsellors who are operating in schools to address the mental health issues of students. Our guests talked with us about the work of the BSCA and shared their experiences with handling crisis in schools. On our set:
Samson Jacobs - Counsellor, Sadie Vernon High School.
Caryl Brannon - President Elect, BSCA.
Greta Jenkins - Counsellor, Excelsior High School.
10-4-19, 60min. Tonight on 10-4-19 we explore previous matters before the ICJ that had similarities to Belize/Guatemala dispute.
Panelists will also discuss what behavior can be expected from Guatemala after the ICJ delivers its binding ruling.
Roatan and Belize dive trip, 5min.
Aquasub in Belize Dive Haven Opening February 2019, 6min.
We truly love Scarlet Macaws (Ara macao), min. we thought we would feature them again for #wildBelize!
Areas such as Bladen Nature Reserve and Maya Mountain North Forest Reserve, both co-managed by Ya’axché, are important to these big red birds. Scarlet macaws can be seen in flocks; they make quite a ruckus when feeding on fruits, nuts and seeds.
Scarlet macaws are monogamous birds – an individual remains with one partner throughout its life. The hen lays two to three white eggs in a tree cavity. The eggs hatch after 28 days; and after a year or two the young scarlet macaws would leave their parents.
Thousands of tourist come to Belize to see these stunning and elegant birds. Our rangers are doing their part in protecting the homes and feeding grounds of scarlet macaws.
February 17, 2019
FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE
Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report. Specials and Events
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials
The San Pedro Sun
SPHS students celebrate Career Week 2019
The San Pedro High School (SPHS) celebrated Career Week 2019 under the theme: “The best way to create the future is to predict it” from Monday, February 11th through to Thursday, February 14th. During the week, students of the school had the opportunity to listen to local and national speakers who spoke to them about a variety of careers, encouraging them to think carefully when planning their futures.
Career Week 2019 kicked-off with a short ceremony on Monday, February 11th at the Angel Nuńez Auditorium. As is customary, the opening ceremony was facilitated by an invited guest speaker, who this year was the People’s United Party (PUP) Regional Deputy Party Leader for the East, Attorney Kareem Musa, son of Belize’s former Prime Minister, the Right Honorable Said Musa and Joan Musa.
Margaritaville brand property to open in Ambergris Caye raises concerns
The announcement of a mega multi-million dollar resort complex under the Margaritaville brand, scheduled to open in 2020 in northern Ambergris Caye, has raised concerns among islanders, including environmental and governmental institutions, due to its location within Bacalar Chico Marine Reserve – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Allegedly, the property is owned mainly by Belizeans who will expand it and turn it into a Margaritaville getaway, comprising of a condominium resort with 71 waterfront residences, complete with a 400-foot pier, two pools and the brand’s signature food and beverage concepts. But the fact that the resort is in Bacalar Chico is now raising concerns in San Pedro Town, with residents saying that the project idea is not environmentally friendly. The Hol Chan Marine Reserve management noted their disapproval toward this type of projects.
Misc Belizean Sources
One year Anniversary for Camo Cantina & Island Ops
Sunday, February 24, 2019 at 11 AM – 11 PM, Camo Cantina & Island Ops on
Seagrape Drive, Across the road from Caribbean Villas. Details to come! Guaranteed to be awesome food and fun! Oh and of course cake!!! Save the date and watch for updates!
Bingo night at Crazy Canucks Beach Bar ! Feb 23rd
It’s time for our February Bingo Night!
First game will begin at about 5pm. We play 6 games at $2/card and one final game at $5/card.
It’s fun! Trust us! We give away free shots all night, have music sound bites with each call, and winners take all at each game! The Last big winner took home over $500 in the final game!
40th annual Bike Pub Crawl!
Sunday, February 17, 2019 at 1 PM – 6 PM, Starts at Wayos Bar and Heads North. Feel like a kid again! Join us on a stress-free bicycle pub crawl this Sunday at 1pm. Golf carts are welcome (as we'll probably need a ride back)! Open to everyone: tourists, locals, etc. - except kids as we're going bar-hopping. Call or msg me if you're lost as we'll be cruising the beach most of the way.
There are lots of bike rentals on the island. I'll probably rent mine at the smoothie shop across the street from Tropic (up from Scotia Bank).
K's Diner is opening Wed the 20th in San Pedro
K's Diner is opening Wed the 20th!! Combining the tropics with southern cooking and a 50's diner - perfect, we are all excited to South our mouth! Best grits & mashed potatoes Ever!!!
Ramen 501 Opening in San Pedro
New Ramen place opening in Poco Loco Food Court!! A Ramen shop in San Pedro run by a Japanese chef? Who would have thought? Hurray! Ramen 501 opening soon at Poco Loco food court on Front Street.
Oscar's viewing party next week at The Truck Stop !
Sunday, February 24, 2019 at 7 PM – 10:30 PM at The Truck Stop. It's been a great year for movies, and we're celebrating by getting drunk while watching some of the most overpaid people in the world congratulate each other for being good at pretending! We're going to be playing Oscars-themed games for free drinks and cash prizes -- including our yearly ballot contest and my personal favorite: OSCARS BINGO.
So if you're going to watch the Oscars, come watch it with us! I assure you we'll be the only bar on the island taking a shot every time we see a close-up of Lady Gaga.
Study with Dr. Rosita Arvigo
Study with Dr. Rosita Arvigo in Belize from March 22-27, 2019! Join us for a special week long class and learn how to make medicine by growing and using healing plants.
Saturdays Peace Walk in Corozal
This morning's Peace Walk organized by "UEmpower Youth" sent a clear message to our community that "We will not be silent! Youths Matter and Enough is Enough" UEmpower is an organization made of young community members that seek JUSTICE against atrocious and senseless crimes and violence against women and children in our Corozal community. Joining the peace walk were members of our community, including Ms. Queen of the Bay Corozal and Justice for Babies. It is an admirable effort by these young people to get involved in these efforts, considering the decay in our civil society and social structure.
Music for the Birds
The Belize Raptor Center is having a special fundraiser at Jalepeno's on Friday, March 8th. Barefoot Skinny and Steev Inglish will be performing. They'll have food from Jamaul Roots. There will be raffle prizes and a silent auction.
"Live performance by Steev Inglish and Barefoot Skinny
8th of March 4pm to 8pm at Jalapenos Restaurant and Bar on Benque Viejo Rd in San Ignacio.
Metalhaven X-Mas Rock
Pictures from the X-Mas Rock concert at the Boulevard.
"Thank you to Boulevard for allowing the space to host this event and hopefully other places will give us the space for future events.
Special thanks for the all the bands for taking the time to put on a great show and of course to everyone that came out to enjoy such a show.
KISIN
This legend tells of a Maya man who thought of selling his soul. For that he invoke the Kisin and told him that he was going to give his soul in exchange for 7 wishes . One for each day of the week before leaving, as always he had been a good man, Kisin accepted. His first wish was money, the second was health, the third day was power, the fourth wanted food, the fifth was travel, the sixth day he asked for women and the seventh, when he had only one wish left, he told Kisin that he wanted him to wash some black beans until they turn white. Kisin started to do it, but the beans never changed color, that's why from that event so that this does not happen again, there are black, white, red and yellow beans.
LOVE FM
Education Minister expresses remorse about Murder of two UB students
Dwayne Cummings and Masaki Yanaai are two University of Belize Students whose lives were ripped from the educational community which calls them family. Words cannot explain how the families cope with the loss of the promising future which both youths held. They were not involved in crime or wasted time but when we spoke to …
The Reporter
FECTAB Appeals to Government for “Fair Play”
The Federation of Cruise Tourism Associations of Belize (FECTAB) has called on the government to make the tourism business an even and “fair” playing field for all. During a press conference yesterday, FECTAB raised concerns again over opportunities that bigger competitors in the business are tapping into in order to get tax rebates as well as benefitting from other opportunities.
Police Making Strides in Cummings Murder
There is no one arrested and charged yet for the shooting murder last Saturday night of Dwayne Cummings Avila, the 20 yer-old student of the University of Belize who was gunned down as he walked home after a basketball game in Orange Walk. But Police are making strides in the case and are expected to name a suspect in the coming days.
For Belize’s Manatees…
The effort to save the manatees takes centre stage tonight and you have a chance to do your part by attending the 4th annual Cocktails for the Manatees fundraiser. The event takes place at the Old Belize Pavilion from 7 pm, until midnight.
For $the 30 entrance fee, patrons will be entitled to light snacks, live entertainment, prizes, and participation in a silent and a live auction at the Old Belize Pavilion.
Breaking Belize News
Trial in March for “Mason Gang” in Pastor Lue murder
Nearly a year after being committed for trial in Belize City, Supreme Court Justice Antoinette Moore set a date of March 12th, 2019, for the murder trial of William “Danny” Mason and co-accused Terrence Fernandez, Ashton Vanegas, Keiron Fernandez and Ernest Castillo in the murder by decapitation of Pastor Llewelyn Lucas in July of 2016. Armed robbery in Belize City
A short while ago there was an armed robbery on Belize City’s northside.
It happened at Kum Hua shop on Daly Street.
Armed robbers made off with an undisclosed amount of cash. Canadian kidnapping case with Belize ties postponed for another month
Canadian courts have postponed the case of the woman arrested in Belize for child abduction for another month.
The courts gave the woman, whose name cannot be called because the case involves a minor, an extra month because she has a
new attorney who needs time to learn the facts of the case. Michael Finnegan urges Mesop voters to support ‘Yes to ICJ’ campaign
Minister of Housing and United Democratic Party (UDP) whip, Michael Finnegan, today called on the residents of his constituency in the Mesopotamia division to support the government’s ‘Yes’ position to taking the territorial claim with Guatemala to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Hunting Season for Iguana is closed
The Belize Forest Department reminds the public that the hunting season for iguanas is closed from February to June of each year as this is their breeding season.
Hunting of Iguanas is prohibited during this time. Attorney skeptical of Compromis lawsuit
Last week, attorney Dickie Bradley announced that he would be acting on behalf of an anonymous party to challenge the 2008 Special Agreement (Compromis) that was signed between Belize and Guatemala, a move which attorney Orson Elrington says is questionable. Museum of Belize launches new Bird exhibit
The Museum of Belize has launched a new exhibit entitled the “Lydia Waight Gallery of Birds” which was put together in collaboration with the Belize Audubon Society (BAS).
Videos
Car explosion in rural Belize, 10sec. The incident occurred sometime this afternoon near Scotland Halfmoon Village. There are no reports of any injuries.
Rules of the Belikin Belize DJ Competition 2019, 5min. Master of Ceremonies explains rules of the DJ competition held on Saturday Feb 16, 2019 at the Cayo Welcome Centre
Belize- Corn Tortilla Making, 14min.
Sam and Shelley Glionna Belize and the Spanish Lookout Kid's Chorus, 3.5min. Join us and the Spanish Lookout Kid's Chorus as we go through a typical day to write, produce and record original Christian Music written by the kids themselves, some as young as eight. God is truly working through these kids and this community.
Belize Honeymoon 2018, 6.5min. Highlight reel from our honeymoon in Belize!
Belize Snorkeling, 13min. First time snorkeling with Gopro. Used extension pole and wrist strap mounts.
National Elite Basketball League - NEBL 2019.
Dream Ballers vs Tiger Sharks, 2hr30min. Russel Chiste Garcia Auditorium, Dangriga
February 16, 2019
FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE
Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report. Specials and Events
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials
The San Pedro Sun
Illegal dumping of garbage at San Pedrito Highway continues; Authorities slow to respond
Improper and illegal garbage disposal in San Pedro Town continues to be a big problem, and authorities at on the island like The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) seem to be moving a little too slow to address the issue. One reported situation is the recent dumping next to the San Pedrito Highway, adjacent to the airstrip. The blatant move clearly identifies the possible origin of the garbage, which includes old restaurants menus, old cheques and even personal information of past customers recorded in receipt books for golf cart rentals. Mayor Daniel Guerrero was made aware of the situation and he promised to look into the matter and punish the culprits. On Thursday, February 14th, Councillor Gabriel Nuńez in charge of Public Utilities, Community Protection and Safety including Waste Management and Sanitation visited the site accompanied by Health Inspector Christina Martinez and the San Pedro Police Department. They proceeded to order the suspected establishment to remove the garbage by the end of the day. The business allegedly committed to comply with the order, however, up to press time, the trash had not been removed.
Hol Chan Marine Reserve hosts a stakeholders workshop
Hol Chan Marine Reserve (HCMR) hosted a half day workshop with stakeholders of HCMR at the San Pedro Town Council conference room in San Pedro Town on Wednesday, February 13th. The workshop saw the attendance of tour operators, tour guides, commercial fisherman, fly fishing guides, non- governmental organizations and media corps.
At 1PM, the workshop began with a discussion of the importance of protecting and preserving the HCMR. This was followed by participants being divided into groups to highlight the different issues they have encountered at the HCMR.
Thereafter, Julian Walcott facilitated the attendees with a presentation on the concepts of Ecosystem Based Management (EBM). According to Dr. Walcott, EBM concepts will allow for issues/conflicts to be identified and potential solutions and better management options to be identified.
BWSL takes over Consolidated Water Belize Limited on Ambergris Caye
On Wednesday, February 13th, Belize Water Services Limited (BWSL) announced that they had reached an agreement with Consolidated Water Belize Limited (CWBL) for the purchase of its shares for US$7 million dollars. The acquisition of the company, operating on Ambergris Caye, was funded by a US$8.5 million loan from the Caribbean Development Bank, which will also be used to further improve and expand BWSL water system on the island.
The process of the purchase was initiated shortly after the company announced its intentions to leave Belize in October 2018. CWBL claimed that it was having difficulties in repatriating profits out of the country.
GOB reaffirms its commitment to phase out single-use plastic and Styrofoam products by April 2019 amid allegations of a possible delay
The Investment Policy and Compliance Unit (IPCU) within the Ministry responsible for Investment, Trade and Commerce have ruled out any allegations contradicting the start of a nationwide ban on single-use plastic and Styrofoam products on April 22, 2019. Concerned citizens have alleged that the banning would be delayed because the Government of Belize (GOB) would not provide any incentives to investors interested in manufacturing and supplying biodegradable items in the country. However, personnel from the IPCU told The San Pedro Sun that such information was inaccurate, as they are working on a package of incentives that will be made available to investors, particularly the small businesses interested in this new line of environmentally friendly products.
Ambergris Today
SPHS 2019 Career Day
On Thursday, February 14, 2019 the students of San Pedro High School rocked the runway as they displayed outfits of different careers for Career Day 2019, which was celebrated under the theme "The Best Way to Predict the Future is to Create It".
Students dressed up as doctors, nurses, pilots, psychiatrists, zoologists, front desk personnel, bank managers, construction workers, transportation workers, secretaries, tour guides and military amongst others. Some classes were very creative and acted out skits which had everyone laughing and having a good time. Here are a few pics for your enjoyment.
Lobster Fishing Season Officially Closed
The Fisheries Department informs fishers and the public that the lobster season is officially Closed as of today, February 15, 2019 and it will remain closed until midnight of June 14th, 2019. Any person found in possession of lobster during the said closed season will be prosecuted in accordance with Section 3(1) (b) of the Fisheries Regulation, Chapter 210 of the Subsidiary Laws of Belize Revised Edition 2000-2003.
Misc Belizean Sources
Lights being installed at the town cemetery in San Pedro
Belize Hosts Press Conference for the 2019 Taipei Lantern Festival “Twinkle Taipei”
The Embassy of Belize to the Republic of China (Taiwan) hosted a press conference on February 13, 2019, to unveil lanterns depicting the Great Blue Hole as well as an array of species of marine life found in the Belize Barrier Reef.
For the first time, Belize will be participating in the Taipei Lantern Festival, which takes place from February 16th-24th. According to Chinese tradition, at the very beginning of a new year, when there is a bright full moon in the sky, there should be thousands of colourful lanterns hung out for people to appreciate. The holiday is celebrated on the 15th day of the 1st lunar month (February 16th).
Corozal Junior College Annual Expo and Trade Fair
Friday March 29, 9am - 4pm.
Submission Period Open for Public to Submit Information in Relation to Gillnets
No matter what position you hold in society, the destruction caused by gillnets can be felt by all Belizeans. The Government of Belize has opened up a submission period for anyone to present information as it pertains to gillnets. Please add your voice. If we fish sustainably, we can always fish!
For more information and access to the form, click the link below:
Hunting Season for Iguana is Closed
he Belize Forest Department hereby reminds the public that, the hunting season for iguanas is closed from February – June of each year as this is their breeding season. Any HUNTING OF IGUANAS is NOT ALLOWED at this time.
Closed seasons for game species are necessary to give wildlife the opportunity to reproduce. If hunting of these species occurs during the closed seasons it will eventually result in a drastic decline of wildlife populations. By respecting closed seasons, we help to ensure that wildlife populations remain healthy for the future.
The Forest Department also wishes to remind the public that as per the Wildlife Protection Act (CAP 220), a Hunter’s License is needed to hunt and sell the following game species:
Increased Pump Prices for Regular and Premium Gasoline
The Ministry of Finance announces that at midnight on February 16, 2019, the pump price for regular gasoline will increase by 10 cents from $9.51 to $9.61 per gallon, while the pump price for premium gasoline will also increase by 12 cents from $10.19 to $10.31 per gallon.
These price increases are due to a reduction in supply from the major oil-producing countries due to geopolitical uncertainties combined with an increase in demand in the current winter season. The seeming increase in the frequency of fuel price changes is due largely to high seasonal demand, particularly in the aviation and tourism sectors, combined with limited bulk storage capacities which together result in a need for more frequent shipments of fuel to the country in recent months.
Eugene "Cosco" Neal Funeral Service
To all Family N Friends of Eugene "Cosco" Neal, the funeral Service will be held tomorrow Saturday February 16th 2019 at 1pm. The body will be received at the Catholic Church at 10am.
Impromptu Peace March in Corozal Saturday Morning
Impromptu Peace March against crime and violence in our community, to be held tomorrow Saturday. Please share this message and come out to join us. Please!
Museum of Belize launched the Exhibit of The Lydia Waight Gallery of Birds
As part of their 50th anniversary celebration theBelize Audubon Society in partnership with the Museum of Belize launched the Exhibit of The Lydia Waight Gallery of Birds today Friday, February 15th at the Museum of Belize.
Free Concert by acclaimed keyboardist Jake Hill
Friday, February 22, 2019 at 5 PM – 8 PM, San Pedro Island Artisan Market. Hosted by San Pedro House of Culture. Composer, studio engineer, vocalist and world class keyboard player, Jake studied piano, organ, voice, recorder and music theory as a young boy. By the age of 12, he was performing in the company of Arthur Fiedler of the Boston Symphony, Seiji Ozawa, Michael Tilson Thomas of the Philadelphia Philharmonic and The Boston Opera Company to name a few. He received scholarships from The Boston Archdiocese Choir School and The New England Conservatory of Music, attending N.E.C. and Boston College High School at the same time, all by the age of 18.
The Lydia Waight Gallery of Birds Exhibit Opens
Today was a most joyful day at the Museum of Belize!! The museum, in partnership with Belize Audubon Society (BAS), officially opened an exhibit entitled "The Lydia Waight Gallery of Birds". Special tribute was made to the late Mrs. Lydia Waight, one of the founding members of BAS. It was a most special and touching ceremony commemorating the 17th anniversary of the Museum of Belize, as well as the 50th anniversary of the Belize Audubon Society.
Collaboration between San Pedro Tour Guides and Tour Operators
Placing moorings !!!
Tuff Gardens and Tres Cocos !! Great job Mike Steve and their crew !!
2019 Spring Equinox Event at Marco Gonzalez
The 2019 SPRING EQUINOX EVENT will be held on Sunday, March 24th at 10am. We hope you can join the celebration of Spring at the Main Plaza on site. We're looking for different activities this year for you to enjoy after the Maya Priest has given a blessing for you, the site and the island! Food & beverages, free site tours, interactive activities, dancing.........all in the beauty of nature where the Maya held celebrations for 1600 years. Park entrance fee applies. Sponsors welcomed - money, product, volunteers for the day. Contact Jan Brown, janetbrownbz@gmail.com. SEE YOU THERE!!
Channel 7
Collision Claims the Life Of Mother of Two
Last night, we told you about the 3 vehicle collision at the Airport Junction in Ladyville. It's a location that has seen countless accidents, and tonight, this deadly stretch of road has claimed another life.
As we reported, a 10 wheeler dump truck slammed into a Jeep Cherokee, and plowed into the North Gas Station. In the process, they ran over a young woman waiting for the bus. She died from her injuries around midnight.
Our news team has been following the story since yesterday evening, and Daniel Ortiz reports:
Family Remembers Hard Working Young Mother
But whatever the charges are - that will give little consolation to the family of a 22 year old who fell victim to an accident that she could never have foreseen.
And what's even more painful is that Marcia Lopez was the mother of two. The San Pablo villager was waiting for the bus to head home - when she was injured.
Her brother today told CTV-3 News in Orange Walk that she worked in Ladyville:
Russell Rodriguez - Brother of Deceased:
"They said that my sister was waiting for bus, so they knock her down just like that waiting for the bus, that is the information I know now."
Retiree Was Fatally Stabbed To Neck
74 year old Elizabeth Rousseau and her 81 year old husband Gary Hawkes had come to Belize to retire at the Oasis housing community on the Consejo Road - one mile outside of Corozal Town. But, instead, she was killed on Wednesday night - the New Yorker died from a stab wound to the neck. A post mortem found her cause of death to be Traumatic asphyxia due to trachea injuries due to stab wounds.'
The elderly American couple was at home on Wednesday night when an intruder broke in through the bathroom window. He stabbed them both, running off with a purse containing 1,200 dollars.
Mason Murder Trial in March
In less than a month, Danny Mason will stand trial for the July 2016 murder of Pastor Llewellyn Lucas. That was the big news coming out of the Belmopan Supreme Court. Danny Mason and his 4 accomplices Terrence Fernandez, Ashton Vanegas, Keiron Fernandez and Ernest Castillo were taken before Justice Antoinette Moore.
She addressed several elements in the murder trial case and the other pending case against the accused for the kidnapping of a mennonite couple. They all pled not guilty to three counts on that charge. Attorney Herbert Panton discussed what happened in this case management session:
Fiery FECTAB Fuming
FECTAB is fuming again. This time the subject of their ire is BELTRAIDE. That's because the Belize Trade and Investment Development Service and Taiwan have set up two exchange investment missions between both countries. They hope to increase foreign direct Investment in priority industries - like tourism.
And that's where FECTAB says they are again being left out. They say the big fish always get more, while the small fish like their members are left without:
David Almendarez - FECTAB:
"Taiwan the give us serious money because they want to link with people in Belize that sell tours and the government give the money to BELTRAIDE. They won't contact us, we're not going to Taiwan, we're not going to states, we don't know who going and why they going and why the deserve it more than we..."
Another Jump In Pump Prices
Fuel prices are going up again tonight at midnight. The pump price for regular gasoline is going up by 10 cents from $9.51 to $9.61 per gallon, while the pump price for premium will increase by 12 cents from $10.19 to $10.31 per gallon.
A Ministry of Finance release says "These price increases are due to a reduction in supply from the major oil-producing countries."
We note that there have now been five increases in fuel prices in less than 2 months.
Taxidermy & Ornithology
If you are a bird watcher, or you love learning about birds, the National Institute of Culture and History hopes that you will be interested in visiting their latest exhibit which was opened today.
It's called the Bird Taxidermy Exhibit, and it's a project on which NICH and the Museum collaborated with the Belize Audubon Society, and Dr. Steven Zitzer. He's a taxidermist, which basically means that he preserves the bodies of animals, and in his case, birds. He's been collecting different species of birds in Belize, which were knocked down by motorists. Rather than allowing these animals to decompose, he's preserved their bodies for artistic and educational purposes.
He's created pieces from over 20 bird species found in Belize, and this morning, NICH and the Audubon Society opened an exhibit at the Museum.
Big Baby, The Big Ticket
No matter how many times you say it, it still sounds unbelievable: On June first, a Belizean, Jarrell "Big Baby" Miller will be fighting for the world heavyweight title.
But it's real and for those Belizeans who want to witness history, tickets are now on sale. His local business manager, Jason Edwards tells us that tickets for the big bout are now for sale at ticketmaster.com and you can use the promocode "BigBaby."
A Teacher With A Vision
Earlier we told you about the birds exhibit at the Museum of Belize. But, if you prefer more traditional forms of art, well, the Image Factory's new exhibit may be just what you're looking for.
It comes from Kirkland Smith, a career educator, who has been teaching visual arts at the high school level for the last 20 years. The SJC teacher has put together art produced by himself and his students over those entire 2 decades, under the theme "A Journey of Art- Kirkland Smith: A Merger Of Perspectives".
Glen Washington Back in Belize
Still in the Valentine's spirit? Well you can keep all the love flowing at Glen Washington's concert tomorrow night at the Civic Center. That's right, the celebrated Reggae crooner is back in Belize to share some lover's rock. We met him today at the Radisson and he told us more about this love fest.
The concert is tomorrow night at the Civic. It begins at 10. Tickets are $110 for single and $200 for couples. You can get tickets at LA fashion, Cellular plus and Wave radio.
From Belize to Bakassi
All this week, a viral video generated by the Belize Peace Movement has been circulating on social media. It's part of that group's No to the ICJ campaign, and from the thousands of views we've seen it rack up, it seems to have generated a lot of traction.
The message is, basically, you can't trust the ICJ if you want to keep your territory intact. Nigeria learned that the hard way when it lost territory to Cameroon. But, Jules Vasquez looked closely at the case, and it seems to put Belize in Nigeria's shoes, when we should be in Cameroon's. Here's his take on it:
Making Manatee's Safe
Belize's manatees need all the help they can get - and a cocktail wouldn't hurt, as long as you're paying for the ticket!
The Sea to Shore Alliance is having its fourth "Cocktails for the Manatees" event tomorrow night at the Old Belize Pavilion. Jamal Galvez told us why you should buy in:
Admission is $30, and the event will feature music, appetizers, socializing, a silent auction, a raffle and a cash bar. LAST YEAR it raised $21,000 which supported a number of projects.
FFB's Program of Inclusion
In yesterday's newscast, we told you about the roundtable session that the Football Federation of Belize held with the media to discuss how they can improve relations in an effort to better inform and engaged the wider public on all important goings-on within the sport of football.
President Sergio Chuc and his administration want the general public to regain confidence in the work that the FFB is doing to improve sport in Belize. And more importantly than that, they want to see the state of football in Belize start inching closer the levels of dominant football nations of the world.
They're doing this by focusing on developing football at the grassroots level, as well as engaging the female population in a brand new women's league.
Channel 5
Young Mother Perishes Following RTA in Ladyville
A twenty-two-year-old mother of two lost her life this morning, following last evening’s traffic accident in Ladyville. Marcia Lopez was waiting on a bus to head home to her family [...]
Bail for Benque Duo Allegedly Found with AK-47 and Galil
On Tuesday, two Belizeans and a Guatemalan national were arraigned and remanded to the Belize Central Prison after being charged jointly for possession of prohibited firearms and ammunition. The indictments [...]
Who Owns Range Rover that had Those Firearms?
Despite strong objections from the court prosecutor, bail was granted to the De La O brothers on the presumption of innocence. According to Hamilton, ownership of the vehicle has not [...]
Evidential Material Being Gathered in Dwayne Cummings Murder Probe
The murder of star athlete Dwayne Cummings last Sunday in Orange Walk Town remains unsolved, despite investigators following several leads in an attempt to crack the case. The twenty-one-year-old basketball [...]
Charles Itza Recovering from Gunshot Wound in Corozal Shooting
Earlier this week, a resident of Corozal Town came under gunfire during an attempt on his life. Charles Itza reported to police in that jurisdiction that he was riding a [...]
Payments to be Made to Paulette Elrington Only Up to End of February
Financial Secretary Joseph Waight says that his office has received notice that Paulette Elrington has resigned from her post with the Foreign Service. Waight told reporters today that Elrington willingly [...]
$2 Million Spent on I.C.J. Campaign
The I.C.J. Referendum is less than two months away – and the Referendum Unit is ramping up the public awareness campaign. Today, when we spoke with Financial Secretary Joseph Waight [...]
FECTAB Decries Major Tour Operators for Suing Government
As many as five individual lawsuits are presently before the Supreme Court where various tour operators are taking legal action against the Government of Belize via the Department of General [...]
Fin Sec Weights in on Slew of GST Suits
It is believed that the cumulative sum that the claimants are seeking is in the seven-figure range, slightly below ten million dollars. While Financial Secretary Joseph Waight did not elaborate [...]
G.O.B. to Appeal U.H.S. Case
The Belize Bank has been trying to collect a ninety-plus million dollar UHS debt from the government – and the two trial dates set for December and January were both [...]
FinSec Says Upcoming Budget Holds “No Surprises”
Financial Secretary Joseph Waight says that he doesn’t expect the upcoming national budget to hold any surprises. Simply put – it may very well look like 2018’s budget. Waight says [...]
House Collapses with Family of 3
A family of three is staying with relatives and friends tonight after the place they’ve called home for decades collapsed with them inside. The incident occurred just after six o’clock [...]
Bird Taxidermy Exhibition opens at Museum of Belize
There’s a new exhibition at the Museum of Belize in Belize City. This one is not your usual painting, carvings and antique pieces; it is a show on birds in [...]
The Refugee Programme in Belize and Migrant Minors
Many nationals from Central American countries over the years have migrated to Belize for better opportunities, some running from different issues. A snapshot of Belize’s current population would show that [...]
Gillnets Negatively Impacting Fly Fishing Industry
The debate to ban or allow the continued use of gillnets in Belize’s water continues tonight. The government is collecting information from the public as it relates to the effects [...]
The Fourth Annual Cocktail for the Manatee
The fourth annual Cocktail for the Manatee takes place this Saturday night at the Old Belize Pavilion on the George Price Highway. The fundraising event is used to not only [...]
LOVE FM
Spanish Bee Competición en San Ignacio
There are all sorts of bees in Belize. Every now and then you hear about Africanized bees, the regular honey bees and occasionally a spelling bee. Today seven schools converged on the Sacred Heart Auditorium in San Ignacio to participate in a Spanish Bee. Niurka Nunez, the Spanish Teacher for Our Lady of Guadelupe High …
FECTAB wants in on new exchange investment missions with Taiwan
The Federation of Cruise Tourism Association of Belize, FECTAB, is at odds again with the government and the Belize Tourism Board. Their discontent follows Monday’s handing over of sixty thousand dollars by the Republic of China (Taiwan) to GOB for one of two planned exchange investment missions. The exchanges will be headed by the Ministry …
New Classrooms for Sacred Heart
Sacred Heart Junior College (SHJC) is growing. The institution has constructed a new building today at the cost of over six hundred and fifty thousand dollars. The building was needed as the student population was utilizing some of the high school’s classrooms in the evening to compensate for the growing demand for an education at …
Education Minister Aware of Female Teacher’s situation in Orange Walk
A high school teacher from the Orange Walk District had been placed on administrative leave after pictures of her nude body were found on the internet. The pictures were in the public domain in December, 2018 and as a result, the teacher was asked to resign from the Catholic institution. The teacher refused and was …
Compol implements changes in Caribbean Shores
Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams, met with over fifty residents of the Caribbean Shores area yesterday evening to listen to their concerns as they relate to neighborhood and community security. Williams was flanked by other senior officers as participants verbalized their fears of crime spreading to the Northside and the loitering and noise particularly at …
Concerns rise following attack on elderly American couple in Corozal
On Wednesday night, 81 year old Gary Hawke and his 74-year-old, wife Elizabeth Rousseau were brutally attacked in their home. They lived in the small Oasis community along the Consejo Road in the Corozal District. It’s an MO that appears to have become recurrent in that district where many American and Canadian families come to …
Belizeans still face difficulties accessing services at the Vital Statistics Unit
Area Representative Musa also spoke of what it has been like assisting Belizeans wishing to reregister obtain their birth certificates. Musa had received several complaints from Belizeans that they have been having difficulty at the Vital Statistics unit because the system is inefficient and the process drawn out for no good reason. Musa says the …
Cayo Resident Chopped
Also in the Cayo district, ACP Joseph Myvett told us that a man identified as Michael Smith was injured during an argument at a shop in San Ignacio. Smith was critically injured after his assailant chopped him. Joseph Mvett: “Last night shortly before 9pm San Ignacio Police responded to a chopping incident in Unitedville Village …
Home Invasion at Cornelius Residence in Spanish Lookout
While that home invasion in Corozal resulted in tragedy. It was not the only one that the police department has to investigate. There was a second home invasion in Spanish Lookout last night. The head of the National Crimes Investigation Branch, Assistant Commissioner of Police Joseph Myvett says 5 armed men targeted Cornelius Peters and …
Amandala
3-vehicle collision leaves woman critical in KHMH
Three vehicles collided on the Philip Goldson Highway in Ladyville in front of NORTH GAS STATION, near Sky’s supermarket and the Philip Goldson International Airport road junction with the highway at about 5:30 this evening. A woman who was standing by the road waiting to catch a bus was knocked down and severely injured, suffering head and body injuries.
American woman dies in home invasion turned murder
An American woman is dead, and her husband was injured as a result of a brutal home invasion in Consejo Village in the Corozal District that quickly turned into a tragic murder.
The incident occurred just before 8 o’clock last night, Wednesday, on an otherwise peaceful night in Consejo, where the retired couple lived in a one-storey cement house in a large yard at #7 Oasis Park Drive. Elizabeth Rousseau, 74, was in the bedroom, and her husband, Gary Hakes, 84, was in the living room, when the lights suddenly went off in the house.
2 charged for gun dealership burglary
Between Tuesday and Wednesday, police launched paramilitary-style operations in some known gang neighborhoods in Belize City that resulted in the recovery of a cache of some 18 firearms and thousands of rounds of ammunition that were stolen from the premises of licensed gun seller Victor L. Bryant, located on Lake Independence Boulevard.
Belize Infrastructure fund manager pleads guilty to defrauding investors out of 21.9 million
In March 2018, Brent Borland, a New York-based investment manager who is the principal at Borland Capital Group, was arrested and charged with fraud after an investigation by the US Securities and Exchange Commission discovered that he had bilked more than a dozen investors out of 21.9 million dollars for building an airport in southern Belize.
Supt. David Chi and companions taken to court for partial disclosure
On September 11, 2018, Superintendent David Chi and four others — Constable Norman Anthony, Peter Freisen and two Mexicans: Eddie Figueroa Nunez and Asarias Monsano — were all arrested and charged with abetment to import a controlled drug and conspiracy to land a plane at an unlicensed aerodrome.
Monsano and Nunez were additionally charged with drug trafficking for 1,225 lbs of cocaine valued at $14 million.
Belizean volleyball stars Bryton Codd and Karym Coleman leading Briercrest College to ACAC playoffs
In March 2018, news was broken that 23-year-old Bryton Codd and 27-year-old Karym Coleman were awarded scholarships to pursue college education at Briercrest College in Saskatchewan, Canada and play for the Briercrest Clippers. Briercrest, a Christian School in the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC), has been a competitive program over the past fifteen years, and has been knocking on the door of the championship picture as of late.
Cricket Corner – Bandits come out with a bang!
Hello, cricket players, fans and supporters! Under the auspices of the Belize National Cricket Association (BNCA), the Bowen and Bowen/ Harrison Parks 2019 National Cricket Competition got under way this past weekend with some very interesting games played. A few were heart breaking.
First we go to Lemonal, the home of the champion, where Western Eagles went to play against home team Easy Does It, last year’s championship team. The home team took to bat first, and at the fall of the last wicket, the score stood at 191 runs, a very impressive score.
Table Tennis – Belize secures Bronze in Central American Junior Championships
The Belize Team returned on Sunday after participating in the Central American U-15 & U-18 Table Tennis Championships, held in Cancun, Mexico.
The team competed in Singles, Doubles, Mixed Doubles and Team Competition.
Even though they did not get any medals in the other categories, Belize was able to secure Bronze in the U-15 Doubles Competition. Taye Parkinson and Devesh Hukmani won 3rd place and took home Bronze medals.
Corozal F.A. U-Tournaments Week 2 report and upcoming schedule
The Corozal Football Association (CFA) continued its 2918-2019 Closing Season tournaments over the weekend with Week 2 games on Saturday and Sunday at the Ricalde Stadium.
Saturday, February 9, was a great day for us. The FFB U-17 national selection played against the Corozal U-17 selection; we lost, 6-0. To end the night just the right way, the CFA 1st Division Amateur Semifinals (Home) was played between Chunox FC and San Antonio NGO. This was the anticipated game by most fans. It was a challenging game, and at the end, San Antonio NGO wins, 3-1.
Ahmadiyya Basketball League Belize Week 3 results
Here are yesterday’s scores and highlights from sixteen Week 3 games in the Ahmadiyya Basketball League (ABL) Belize 2019 tournament, being played at the SJC gym.
Editorial: Socialist Nicaragua has lowest murder rate in C.A.
The website, Knoema, which describes itself as the “most comprehensive source of global decision-making data in the world”, says that the murder rate (persons murdered per 100,000 people) in Nicaragua in 2016 was 7.4. The country with the next lowest murder rate in 2016 was Panama, with 9.7 persons killed per 100,000 of their population, and Costa Rica was just a little worse than Panama, with 11.9 persons killed per 100,000.
Tension in Bakassi after handover
Dear Editor,
I encourage all to read in its entirety the enclosed opinion on the Nigeria/Cameroon ICJ ruling which also cites some information on the Thailand/Cambodia dispute and ruling.
Legal scholars all agree that court rulings invariably look at precedents and laypersons share the feeling that the courts almost always seek to arrive at a decision where both sides feel they won!
Correct me if I’m wrong, says Brian Plummer
Dear Editor,
Based on the doctrine of inheritance, Mexico and Guatemala claimed Belize. In 1893, Mexico signed a treaty with Britain and dropped the claim, but later stated that if Guatemala was successful in obtaining all or part of Belize, Mexico would revive its claim.
Mexico was the first country to recognize Belize’s independence, and I consider Mexico Belize’s best friend.
Ankle bracelets for criminals is a good idea
Dear Editor,
I pen tonight with much enthusiasm my endorsement of the concept of “ankle bracelets” being introduced into Belize’s crime situation. This stance and support is based on both technological and security principles coupled with professional and academic experience. It is time for us to stop thinking that “general” policing could address the murderous environment we currently face in the motherland. We need new and aggressive policies; this suggested remedy is one which I think will be effective.
ICJ A to Z, almost
1802 –Britain returned to Spain, via 1802 treaty, all territories it conquered since wars began in 1793 (French Revolutionary Wars 1793-1802; War between Great Britain and Spain 1796-1802), except for Trinidad, which British conquered in 1797. Belize is not really one of these territories (Belize “defended” her existence in 1798), but in this 1802 treaty the British recognize the old status quo in this region.
Guatemala claims to be the successor of Spain, and that as successor it inherited our territory. Really, in 1802 Spain’s sometimes terrible reign, from since 1492, is over. The British, at this time, have a hold all over Central America and the Caribbean.
Enough is enough!
We take this opportunity to express our heartfelt sympathies to the families and friends of Dwayne Cummings, an aspiring athlete and a promising student of the University of Belize, and to 19-year-old Masaki Yanai who lost his life when his family was attacked at gun point at their home and who was also a promising student of the University of Belize. These tragedies are the latest in a series of senseless murders that have occurred since the start of 2019.
“Tommy Goff” kills Sherwin Kerr, 43
On Tuesday afternoon, February 5, Sherwin Kerr, 43, a laborer of Rockville, was clearing an area between Mile 13 and 14 on the George Price Highway when he was bitten by a very poisonous snake, known as a “Tommy Goff.”
Kerr was rushed to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, and he was being treated, but his condition took a turn for the worse on Saturday, February 9, and he died while undergoing treatment, after surviving for four days.
In Erie, Pennsylvania, USA, 2 Belizeans shot in drug deal gone bad
Two Belizean men living in Chicago allegedly went to Erie, Pennsylvania, to sell one kilo of heroin, but the drug deal did not go as planned and instead of money being collected by the two men for the drug sale, bullets began flying between sellers and buyers, and the sellers ended up in police custody and were arraigned on drug and ammunition charges, Tim Hahn reported in the online publication, GoErie.com.
The incident occurred on Thursday, February 7, in the parking garage near the courtyard of the Marriott Erie Bayfront Hotel, around 5:45 p.m.
Belize celebrates Chinese New Year
While most Belizeans celebrate the New Year on January 1, Chinese New Year is celebrated in February. All across Belize, firecrackers could be heard throughout the weekend, starting from Saturday.
The Belize Chinese Association (BCA) began the celebrations with the traditional Lion Dance Parade. Plenty of Belizeans have seen this dance occur in front of Chinese businesses. This year, about 48 stores requested the dance.
Constable, injured by senior officer, wants to press charges
An unnamed police constable who allegedly suffered an injury at the hands of a senior police officer reportedly wants to pursue a criminal charge against the officer, who has so far not been named. The incident is said to have occurred at a police checkpoint somewhere in Belize City.
This matter surfaced about two days ago as a result of a Facebook post by Corporal Darrell “Tutsi” Usher, who has been on interdiction pending the outcome of a drug trafficking case.
The Reporter
EDITORIAL – February 15th.
It is not true that the Belize-Guatemala Boundary Dispute is one and the same as the Anglo -Guatemala Dispute !
This claim was made as recently as this week by Major Lloyd Jones, former Commandant of the Belize Defence Force, during an interview on Channel Seven. He is gravely mistaken!
Police Get New Fleet of Vehicles
The Belize Police Department has received a new fleet of Great Wall Wingle pick-up trucks to better tackle crime on the nation’s streets.
The 31 vehicles, which were acquired by the government at a cost of $1.3 Million from public and private funding, were handed over on Thursday afternoon.
Robbers Tie Up Couple and Flee with Cash
Police are following several leads into a home invasion in Spanish Lookout, Cayo on Wednesday night.
Cornelius Peters told Police that at around 8:30 that night, he and his wife were at home when five masked men entered the house and bound them up, then ransacked the house for cash and valuables. The thieves left with an undisclosed amount of cash.
Woman Dies in Ladyville Traffic Accident
Police say that a young woman who was involved in a traffic accident in Ladyville on Thursday evening has died of her injuries.
The mishap occurred around 5:00 pm, at the Sky Gas Station between miles 8 and 9 on the Philip Goldson Highway.and claimed the life of Marcia Lopez, 22, of San Pablo Village, Orange Walk.
Home invasion: Couple stabbed and wife loses life
The life of retired American National Elizabeth Rousseau 74 was tragically cut short on Wednesday night following an aggravated burglary at her home on the Consejo Road in Corozal where she and her elderly husband were attacked and stabbed by a knife-wielding intruder.
Two arrested for gun heist
Burglars raided the Victor L. Bryant armory warehouse on Chetumal Street in Belize City early Tuesday morning and got away with a hefty cache of weapons and ammunition.
The heist has been described as a “Breach of National Security,” by the authorities, who have prioritized the case, resulting in two arrests.
Hungarian Fugitive Located in Belize
Gabor Zsolnai, 52, was handed over to Hungarian law enforcement authorities, who had traveled to Belize and were waiting for him at the Phillip Goldson International Airport to take him back to Hungary to face the charges.
Breaking Belize News
Fishermen robbed at gunpoint off the coast of Belize City
Pirates robbed six Corozal fishermen at gunpoint this week while they were out on a fishing […]
Woman dies in tragic traffic accident
Marcia Lopez,22, of San Pablo, Orange Walk lost her life yesterday evening in a tragic road traffic […]
Meet Belizean Joseph Smith, an international wine entrepreneur
BBN would like to introduce its readers to Joseph Smith of Wine Smith Limited. Smith was […]
Embassy of Mexico in Belize invites you to a movie night
The Embassy of Mexico in Belize invites the Belizean public to the first Mexican movie night at […]
US issues sanctions on corrupt Venezuelan officials
The United States Department of State issued a statement today saying that the US remains steadfast […]
Fuel prices hiked (again)
The Ministry of Finance announced today that at midnight tonight the pump price for Regular gasoline […]
Fox News praises Belize in “Extreme Travel” segment
As Belize’s popularity as a “go to” tourism destination grows, more international media outlets are featuring […]
Police investigating murder of American national in Northern Belize
The Belize Police Department has concluded that the murderer responsible for the stabbing death of Elizabeth Rousseau, […]
“No surprises in upcoming budget,” says Financial Secretary
Financial Secretary Joseph Waight said today that he doesn’t expect the upcoming National Budget to be […]
Shooting victim listed in a stable condition
Belize City police say that Mark Anthony Clarke, 41, is alive and in a stable condition […]
Police: One step closer to solving murder of Dwayne Cummings
Orange Walk police are one step closer to making an arrest in the murder of […]
11 people have lost their lives to traffic accidents in 2019
Every year, there are numerous campaigns about driving safely on the highways in Belize. Sadly, […]
Taiwan Embassy unveils Blue Hole lantern for 2019 Taipei Lantern Festival “Twinkle Taipei”
The Embassy of Belize to the Republic of China (Taiwan) yesterday unveiled lanterns depicting the […]
Special Envoy for Women and Children congratulates US Embassy and Marie Sharp for partnership to combat Gender-based violence
The United States Embassy in Belize in partnership with Marie Sharp yesterday launched a new, […]
Masked men terrorize family in bizarre home invasion in Spanish Lookout
Police are investigating a bizarre home invasion that occurred in Spanish Lookout, Cayo District on […]
SParaside Spa & Salon: Easy Affordable Accessible FANTASTIC Pampering Right In San Pedro Town
Last week, I finally made an appointment at the new downtown SParadise Spa & Salon – located in a smartly, chicly renovated spot on Front Street that had been sitting vacant for a while.
It was a super smart move by the owner Kristi Gonzalez – who has been working in the spa and wellness business for a quite a few years with businesses at resorts up north.
Here are her spa window on the water at Captain Morgan’s Resort. I LOVE IT.
Here’s their niche for the new downtown spot: a clean, comfortable, beautiful space that takes appointments as well as walk-ins – is easily visible from the street making it even more accessible for visitors – and has reasonable prices a bit of pampering and great results.
Biking around....
There are so many ways to find adventure on Ambergris Caye and taking a bike is a lovely way to see the Caye and all it has to offer.
If you head north over the bridge, you can jump onto the beach and ride up the coast for miles. There’s even some paths you can take to see the sites of the jungle. Or, if you are looking for a less adventurous route grab the road. You can pedal out to Secret Beach! This 8-mile bike ride from downtown San Pedro will take you past the mangroves where you just may see a crocodile basking in the sun, so keep an eye out. Make sure to leave the beach before dark as the moon will be the only light to pave your way home!
Placencia Belize Travel Guide: What to See, Do, Costs, & Ways to Save
If you're looking to spend your vacation in a tropical retreat, there's no better place than Belize, and there's no more tantalizing region than the Placencia Peninsula in Southern Belize. This enchanting peninsula is bordered on one side by a tropical lagoon and on the other side by the Caribbean Sea. It's known both for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and for the gregarious and gracious nature of the residents - many of whom live in the self-name placid fishing village of Placencia. Despite being 19 miles from tip to tip, the width of this peninsula is only a half mile wide, and that means gorgeous beaches are never out of reach.
International Sources
Paradise Found: Cayo Espanto
Cayo Espanto is located on its own private 4-acre island, 7-minutes by boat from San Pedro. After arrival in San Pedro, prepare to live your private island fantasy, whether it looks a little like Tom Hanks in Castaway or Giselle and Tom Bradys honeymoon. Step off the plane to be greeted by an employee of Cayo Espanto bearing a sign with your name on it, to escort you to your dream getaway. Once you have arrived be prepared to be greeted by the whole staff lined up at the dock to welcome and introduce you.
The Island: Cayo Espanto is a paradise unlike any other: It’s transporting. Everywhere you look, you can’t help but be in awe — this is the resort of your dreams you didn’t even know to dream of. It’s a place that you didn’t know could exist in real life. Everything is almost too perfect. It isn’t over crowded and is serenely quiet all the time, creating a romantic, relaxed vibe throughout the whole island. The island has only 7 villas.
JT adds Belize to global roaming network
Channel Island-based telecommunications group JT has announced a contract to provide a fully managed GSMA-compliant service for both inbound and outbound roaming to Speednet Communications in Belize. The service uses JT’s existing 2G, 3G and 4G roaming connectivity and is supported by the operator’s network extension platform.
Feeding my fishing addiction
Given the need to feed my fishing addiction and relatively inexpensive plane fare, I flew from Tampa, Florida to Belize City in Central America. I became part of the annual Cheesehead invasion of Placencia, a village at the end of a peninsula in southern Belize. Bill and Sue Smith and Jeff Cudd of River Falls have been there since January. Jesse and Angie Smith were visiting and I just missed them when I arrived on Jan. 26. Jesse caught a whopper 64-pound wahoo when he was there.
Over the years we have done a lot of fishing in Belize. We have caught big barracudas, king mackerel, wahoo, tuna and groupers trolling outside the barrier reef. We enjoy catching snappers, jacks, Spanish mackerel on spinning tackle around the many islands and patch reefs between the main reef and the mainland. Bill Smith likes to cast top-water baits for reef snappers and sight-fish for barracudas. Sue Smith is the "Fishing Goddess," catching huge fish when trolling outside the reef. We have had many delicious dinners of our catch cooked by our friend Magda Morales at her Shak restaurant on the beach.
Videos
Promoting Carnaval “Mejorando La Tradición,” Open Your Eyes,
Channel Five Obituaries:
Funeral - Althea Chavarria, 3min.
Channel 5 Obituaries
Thank You - Anthony Sylvestre, 2min.
The Belize Visionary Foundation of Baseball and Softball, 18min. If you are looking for family entertainment this weekend this event is for you. The Belize Visionary Foundation of Baseball and Softball continues to work to revive the sport of baseball and softball in Belize. They will be hosting an International Friendly Senior Baseball Competition. The competition will be held at Roger's Stadium on Saturday at 2:00pm. The Belie Visionaries will face off against the Quetzales of Guatemala. Entrance is $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for children. Carlyon Flores, President of the BVFBS talked with us about their plans for the organization.
Belize Now: February 15, 2019, 24min. In tonight’s headlines: Ministry of Health Celebrates Successful Mission of Partners for Medical Relief, Belize and Taiwan Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation through Investment Exchange Missions, and Marie Sharp’s new Pepper Sauce Calls to “End Gender-based Violence”. These stories and more on this week’s edition of Belize Now. Thanks for joining us on this Friday, February 15th, 2019!
Turneffe Flat, Belize 2018, 12min.
Snorkeling in Belize 2019, 3min. All day Catamaran trip snorkeling videos.
Dolphins in Belize, 1/2min. Our first dive in Belize! March 2018
Open Your Eyes 2019 Valentine Day Special Show, 105min. What a show! Thank you to our couples for sharing their experiences with us this morning! We thought they bared their souls and candidly spoke about what it takes to ensure love endures. Thank you as well to our performers for bringing the musical vibes on set this morning. On set:
Deon and Deanne Robinson,
Victor Miranda and Dionne Chamberlain Miranda ,
Performers: Marlyn Vansen and Jael August.
Sharks and stringrays, Belize, 3min.
Scuba Diving in Belize - The Great Blue Hole, 14min. An edit of the footage captured from my trip to Belize July 2016. The video was shot with a GoPro HERO2, extended battery, custom underwater housing with flat lens, and a light red filter. The best part of this dive was swimming through the stalactites, and the eerie descent into the unknown. We dove with the Amigos Del Mar Dive Shop, located in San Pedro, Belize.
Bruk It Down Jenny - learning about the concept of Love Languages, 31min. "Bruk It Down Jenny" focused on learning about the concept of Love Languages. Mental Health Therapist, Jenny Lovell, explained that each person has their individual love language that describes what makes them feel loved in a relationship. Knowing your partner's love language improves the quality of your intimacy. Today she concentrated on the "words of affirmation' language explaining how these persons interpret love in action.
Channel 5 Obituaries:
Funeral - Marva Reyes, 3min.
Oceana Love Fair video 2019, 2min. It was held at Corozal Central Park on February 14, 2019.
National Elite Basketball League - NEBL 2019 |Defenders vs Hurricanes | Civic Center, Belize City, 2hr47min.
February 15, 2019
FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE
Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report. Specials and Events
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials
The San Pedro Sun
Special Agreement signed between Belize and Guatemala to be challenged at Supreme Court
In 2008, at the urgency of the Organization of American States, Belize and Guatemala signed a Special Agreement (compromis) to settle the long-standing territorial dispute between both countries at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). In the agreement, Belize committed to settle the matter at the ICJ after the participation of Belizeans in a national referendum set for April 10, 2019. However, the government never consulted Belizeans prior to signing the Agreement, and the definition of the Belize-Guatemala territorial dispute in such document has since then been the subject of much criticism. The Special Agreement has garnered so much attention that attorneys in Belize are preparing to challenge it at the Supreme Court, to question its legality, validity and constitutionality.
Inspector Basil Reyes is the new deputy of the Coastal Executive Unit
Inspector Basil Delbert Reyes is the new Deputy of the Belize Police Department’s Coastal Executive Unit, in charge of Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. Deputy Reyes, who took over from Assistant Superintendent Dehanne Augustine, comes to the island with 22 years of experience and is looking forward to work along with the community, particularly with the youth on both cayes.
Originally from Belize City, Reyes had previously served in the Coastal Executive Unit in the capacity of sergeant at the San Pedro Police Station between 2009 and 2012. From 2012 until recently, he was posted at Precinct 2 Region 1 south side of Belize City.
Fisheries traceability increases sustainable profits
Traceability for sustainable fisheries is the new marketing catch-phrase for the National Fishermen’s Cooperative, which has now implemented the use of TALLY software from ThisFish to give buyers complete knowledge of the origin of their seafood. The Fisheries Department and The Nature Conservancy have partnered with the Coop to use this digital system to monitor the harvest of lobster, conch and other fish to avoid overfishing, and ensure the maturity of the product that is harvested. The three partners introduced the new system to the media with a tour of the Cooperative’s processing plant in Belize City on Friday morning, February 8.
Four San Pedro girls drafted to Belize’s U-16 Female National Team
On Monday, February 11th, the Football Federation of Belize (FFB) issued the names of the players that will form Belize’s Under-16 Female National Team to participate in the upcoming Unión Centro Americana de Fútbol (UNCAF-Central American Football Union) U-16 Girls championship to be held in April 2019. Among the young players selected are San Pedro’s Dennisa Mairena, Tanya Teul, Normalee Gomez and Babee Lopez.
Ambergris Today
BWS Purchases Consolidated Water Belize Limited
Belize Water Services Limited (BWS) has reached an agreement with Consolidated Water Company Ltd. (CWCO), Cayman, to purchase its Belize subsidiary, Consolidated Water (Belize) Ltd. (CWBL) for US$7 million, with the closing of the transaction on Wednesday, February 13, 2019. This purchase is being funded as part of a Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) loan of US$8.5 million which also includes additional water system improvements and expansion.
Margaritaville Resort Belize Announces Environmental Protection Plan
Earlier this month, The Ambergris Grand Limited (“TAG”) announced a partnership with Margaretville Holdings to bring a new Margaritaville condo resort to Belize, offering travelers and owners a fresh take on an authentic Belizean experience.
TAG shared additional details on the development, including the company’s environmental protection plan for the project, which is located adjacent to the Bacalar Chico Marine Reserve.
Misc Belizean Sources
VIRTUAL CURRENCY (CRYPTOCURRENCY)
he International Financial Services Commission (“the IFSC”) is concerned that numerous promoters of virtual currencies such as cryptocurrencies and cryptocurrency exchanges may be holding themselves out as authorised by the IFSC to provide, carry on, transact, or offer trading services in virtual currencies in or from within Belize.
As most promoters and operators of virtual currency trading platforms, who may be unlawfully presenting themselves as authorised by the IFSC to carry on these activities, may not be a Belize entity and/or do not have a physical presence in Belize, it would be difficult to verify their authenticity or credibility. Therefore, IFSC advises the public to act with extreme caution and understand the substantial risks they take on if they choose to invest in virtual currencies and in dealing with cryptocurrency exchanges.
Our Youth: Our Future
The Department of Youth Services (DYS) and our local CARICOM Youth Ambassadors, join with the rest of the community in firstly expressing heartfelt condolences to the grieving families who have recently lost loved ones due to gun violence. We place on record our condemnation of these senseless killings. Simply put, the murder of our young people is the literal killing of our future as a nation.
The recent cold-blooded murder of two youth, both of whom had bright, promising futures, is a tragedy on many levels. Our collective shock at these senseless murders is only a fraction of the tremendous loss to the families of these two youth and the country as a whole.
2019 Oceana Love Fair
At Corozal Central Park. A short Ceremony was done at 11am. Students from across Corozal came out to learn more about the different booths around central park. This years event is to continue recycling plastic and start using byodygredable products.
Corozal Town Council Acquired 2 Transport Trucks
Mayor Rigo Vellos and the Corozal Town Council investing in the safety of our people. The Council has acquired 2 transport trucks to serve the traffic department and be able to conduct their duties in a more efficient manner. Despite the challenges, your Corozal Town Council is investing its resources to the safeguarding of our people. An additional 3 motorcycles will be added to enhance the mobility and visibility of our transport officers especially in our school zones.
LOVE AFFAIR
Corozal Wood House Bistro Presents - LOVE AFFAIR - Saturday, February 16th - Music by Deejay Roger from 8:00 P.M. to 2:00 A.M. No Cover! Come and Enjoy. Love is in the air at the Wood House this weekend.
A fatal home invasion and burglary at the OASIS retirement community
Located just about 1 mile on the Consejo Road, Corozal claims the life of a female American retiree and leaves her male companion in a state of total shock. Scenes of Crime Police investigators are currently processing the crime scene.
The body of the victim currently lies at the Orange Walk Northern Regional Hospital.
BWS buys Consolidated Water Belize
Belize Water Services Limited (BWS) has reached an agreement with Consolidated Water Company Ltd (CWCO), Cayman, to purchase its Belize subsidiary, Consolidated Water (Belize) Limited (CWBL) for US$7 million, with the closing of the transaction expected to be completed today, Wednesday, February 13, 2019. This purchase is being funded as part of a Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) loan of US$8.5 million which also includes additional water system improvements and expansion. The Government of Belize has assisted by providing the loan guarantee, obtaining a CDB grant of US$205,000, and assisting with facilitating the transaction.
Public Lecture: THE FAILURE OF SUPPRESSION
Let the process of change start through education and information. Friday February 22, 2019 © 6pm Bliss Centre For The Performing Arts.
Dr. Herbert Gayle & Belizean Research Team
Omolewa Osain Live in Concert
For your information and attendance. I know the two ladies in this concert can sing so it should be good. Feb. 16th.
French Kiss at Sunset
If you don't know what our Bar & Restaurant looks like, check it out!
To ICJ or Not to ICJ, This is the Question… by Tony Rath
I am a nature photographer first, and a photojournalist second. I have attended some ICJ meetings, listened to radio and TV segments about the ICJ, read numerous reports, talked to knowledgeable and not so knowledgeable friends. But most importantly, I have lived in Belize for nearly 40 years as a naturalized Belizean. And through all the talks, readings, meetings and discussions, there has been one question that I have not been able to come to terms with, nor has anyone else been able to answer when it comes to a yes or no vote on going to the ICJ.
First a little background to set up the question. George Price was a great leader with the exceptional quality of convincing people to follow him. He, as the Father of our Country, along with others, persuaded us that we could make our own decisions, build our own country, let our culture flourish without being shackled to the British.
NSUB Peace March
The National Student Union of Belize is having a Peace March on Monday, February 18th, in Belmopan. It'll start at UB, and end at the steps of the National Assembly building.
BTB TAKE A SHOT PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST
Calling all our local culinary & birding photographers! The “Take a Shot” Photography Sweepstake (the “Contest”) is sponsored by the Belize Tourism Board (“Sponsor”). The categories for entries are: (1) Culinary and (2) Birding (the “Categories”). Each participant must enter a minimum of 10 photos and each entry must comply with the “Take a Shot”Photography Sweepstake Guidelines and Requirements.
PRIZE: There will be two winners.
First place – $2,000 BZD.
Second place – $1,000 BZD. ELIGIBILITY: The “Take a Shot” Photography Sweepstake contest is only open to all local photographers.
Paradise Theater playing this weekend
Creed II, Robin Hood, The Possession of Hannah Grace, Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald
Channel 7
American Senior Citizen Killed In Consejo Home Invasion
Tonight, police are looking for a man who broke into the home of an American couple in Corozal and killed a 74 year old woman, while injuring her 81 year old husband.
It's a home invasion turned murder -in a retirement community where residents would never expect such a thing. Jules Vasquez reports:...
Jules Vasquez reporting:
The OASIS, it's an expatriate housing community, at mile one on the Consejo road - basically one mile out of Corozal town. It's actually a retirement community, home to mostly Canadians and Americans - who come here generally for the winter months.
Violent Burglars on The Prowl in Spanish Lookout
So, while Corozal police are trying to solve that aggravated burglary turned murder ion the Consejo road, Cayo cops must also investigate another another armed home invasion, which also happened last night.
This one took place in Spanish Lookout and today, police told us that, 5 thieves tied up a husband and wife, and then ransacked their home for valuables and cash:
Triple Collision In Ladyville, Victim Flung To Pavement
There was a very serious three vehicle collision at the airport junction this evening.
At around 5:00, a loaded sand truck, and two small SUV's collided at the entrance of Sky Gas station.
A Jeep Cherokee was sandwiched in the middle of the two other vehicles and took the worst of the damages - getting completely crushed at the rear.
Two Charged For Gun Heist
Police have arrested and charged 2 men for the burglary at the Victor L Bryant gun store on Chetumal Boulevard in Belize City.
Thieves broke in on Tuesday morning and cleaned out the gun warehouse, making off with a huge cache of weapons, including rifles, shotguns and handguns, and several thousand live rounds of ammunition.
But, in just a few hour, sharp police work led the cops to retrieve 18 of those stolen weapons and 4,900 live rounds of ammunition, which were stashed at different hiding spots around the city.
Investigating The Inspector
A police Inspector is under investigation after a constable alleged that the senior officer assaulted him and burst his head.
Constable Marko Hinds alleges that the Inspector - who commands a specialized unit - pulled up at a police checkpoint in the city, and the constable did not salute him.
That and the constable's informal tone in addressing the senior officer seems to have incensed the Inspector - and it is alleged that he slammed the constable into the police mobile and burst his head.
Police Have Lead In Dwayne's Murder
At the beginning of the week, we told you about the Orange Walk murder of 20 year-old Dwayne Cummings-Avila.
The UB student was a rising star with a bright future in basketball, but on last Saturday night, someone gunned him down while he was walking home from a game.
He was well-loved by residents of Orange Walk and by his peers, colleagues and teachers at the University of Belize. And, by all appearances, he was a model young man who stayed away from the streets.
Funeral For A Slain Student Athlete
The funeral for Dwayne Cummings was held today in Orange Walk Town - where family, friends, fans, and townspeople came out to celebrate the life of the exceptional young man.
Today, the Department of Youth Services sent out a release, quote "condemning these senseless killings" and calling it, quote, "the literal killing of our future as a nation."
We note that the last three murders reported countrywide: Masaki Yanai, Dwayne Cummings and now, Elizabeth Rousseau were all innocent victims who lived outside of the usual locus of gang related crime.
Wesley Lower Robbed Again
The staff at Wesley Lower School on Albert Street in Belize City have reached their wit's end with burglars who keep breaking into the school and stealing essential educational items.
Last night, someone pried open the burglar bar door of the principal's office, and cleaned it out of everything valuable that they could find.
Today, one of the teachers told us off-camera that these thieves are affecting the students' education:
Marie Sharps Surprising New Sauce Supports Domestic Peace
Marie Sharp has done it again. She's launched a brand new hot sauce - but this one is pineapple based - that's right pineapple - pepper!
It will be on shelves as early as tomorrow - so you can try it this weekend - but the surprising sauce blend isn't the only story here.
Sharp partnered with the US Embassy to raise awareness of domestic violence and raise funds to help Haven House. And the special sauce is the face of this effort.
31 More Vehicles For Police
There are a few constants in law enforcement: the "police are always investigating," or "the police investigation continues"; the gunman is usually unidentified and the bad guys always "make good their escape", andone more, the police are always on mobile patrol. Butnot as often as they would like to be. Fact is, keeping a crime ridden society requires a lot of vehicular resources.
Last year, the police got an influx of new pickups and this year agin, they've gotten 31 more Wingle pickups.
Man Stable After Shot To Head
Tonight, 41 year-old Mark Anthony Clarke, a resident of Fredrick's Alley in Belize City, is recovering from gunshot injuries he suffered last night in an attempt on his life.
We told you about it at the end of news last night: At around 7:20 p.m., he was standing in front of Two Star Shop on New Road - which is not far from his home. That's when a vehicle drove up, and a gunman jumped out and went after him:
ASP Alejandro Cowo - OC, CIB Belize City:
"Last night, just after 7:30, police visited the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, where they observed Mr Mark Anthony Clarke, a 41 year-old Belizean from Frederick Alley. He was seen with apparent gunshot wounds to the body..."
The Plane Is a Crop Duster
A video of a plane circling over Orange Walk today quickly went viral. The plane is seen circling and dipping very low and then coming back up again. Now this happened in broad daylight this afternoon, but in the current climate where drug planes use Belizean roads as runways - it seemed to be a possibility that it could be a drug plane.
But this isn't so. We checked with the experts who said it is a crop duster doing fertilizing or seeding. We are told it is a Piper Pawnee - which is an agricultural aircraft.
FFB Reboots Public Image
It's been about 14 months now that Sergio Chuc, and his executive at the Football Federation of Belize has been running the sport in Belize. During that time, we've not heard of a single bit of the strife and controversy that used to plague the FFB under the previous two presidents
Chuc and his executive say that erasing the negative public image that the FFB has been tainted with is only incidental - what they want is to see football in Belize improve from the grassroots to the semi-pro level, to the National Team level.
US Man Pleads Guilty To Bogus Fundraising Scheme For Airport in Belize
In May of 2018, we told you about 48 year old US Investment Fund Manager Brent Borland after he was charged in the US with multiple counts of securities fraud. The US Department of Justice accused him of tricking investors to front 21.9 million dollars in bridge financing for an International Airport project in Placencia.
Well, yesterday, Borland pleaded guilty to running the multi million dollar fraud where "he falsely told dozens of investors their money was being used to build an international airport in Belize." the U.S. Department of Justice said. According to the Reuters news service, he pleaded to one count each of securities fraud, wire fraud and conspiracy before a U.S. District Judge in Manhattan. The fraud counts each carry a maximum 20-year prison term.
Another Chopping Out West
Tonight, a man from Unitedville Village in the Cayo District is in a critical condition after he was chopped by an assailant last night.
Best reports to the press are that he was buying food at a vendor in the village when he got into some sort of confrontation with a man. That incident escalated when the man pulled a machete and attacked him with it.
Police shared more with us today:
ACP Joseph Myvette - Head, NCIB:
"Last night, shortly before 9 p.m., San Ignacio responded to responded to a chopping incident in Unitedville Village, where upon arrival, they learnt that one Michael Smith was at a shop buying when he obviously had a confrontation with someone who inflicted a chop wound to him..."
Did Underworld Currents Lead To Corozal Shooting?
And from that chopping in Cayo, we report now on a shooting which happened in Corozal Town.
28 year-old Charles Itza, a resident of the Venezuela site in Corozal Town, was shot in the right foot by an assailant at around 9:00 on Tuesday night.
Police told us what they know about this incident:
ACP Joseph Myvettte - Head, NCIB:
"On Tuesday last, sometime around 8:45 p.m., Charles Itza reported that while riding his bicycle on the Santa Rita Road, he was attacked by a masked male person, who fire shots towards his direction..."
Stench Grossing Out Garden City
Residents living near north-western Belmopan have been suffering for some time now from what the Department of Environment is calling air pollution.
That's because there has been a foul smell that's been coming from that area, and the suspicion is that it is being caused by wastewater generated by one of the companies in Belmopan. The DOE says that multiple industries which generate this type of wastewater are in close proximity to each other, and they aren't yet sure which company is the culprit. Nevertheless, it is negatively affecting the quality of air that the residents of this side of the city are breathing in, and the DOE is collaborating with the Public Health Department to come up with a solution to the issue.
Channel 5
American Couple Targeted; Wife is Fatally Stabbed
Corozal police, with assistance from the Major Crimes Unit, are investigating a horrifying home invasion turned murder. The home of retired American couple Elizabeth Rousseau and Gary Hakes was broken [...]
The International Backlash following Murder of American Citizen
The murder of American citizen Elizabeth Rousseau and the attack on her husband Gary Hakes adds to the list of foreigners who have fallen victims to major crimes in the [...]
2 Men Are Charged for Gun Heist at Victor L. Bryant
Twenty-one-year-old Randy Chambers made headlines in December 2015, when he was walloped by a trio of officers as he was walking through his family yard on Police Street Extension. The [...]
Phillip Gallaty’s License to Sell Firearms is Up in the Air
Commissioner of Police Chester Williams has also written to proprietor Phillip Gallaty in respect of the burglary, particularly since the security of the building from which the trove of weapons [...]
A Brazen Attempt of the Life of Mark Anthony Clark
A Belize City resident of Frederick’s Alley was the intended target of a murder attempt last evening when someone inside a vehicle took aim at him with a firearm as [...]
Home Invasion in Spanish Lookout Nets Thieves an Undisclosed Sum of Cash
There was also a home invasion in the Mennonite community of Spanish Lookout on Wednesday night where a couple was bound and their home rummage by thieves. Cornelius Peters reported [...]
Chopping in Unitedville Leaves Michael Smith Seriously Injured
There was a vicious chopping incident that occurred in Unitedville on Wednesday night where Michael Smith, a resident of that community, was reportedly attacked by a pair of men. The [...]
U.S. National Pleads Guilty to Multi-Million Dollars Scam including Belize
On Wednesday, forty-eight-year-old American national, Brent Borland, pleaded guilty to running a multimillion dollar scam and using Belize to do so. He pleaded guilty to one count of securities fraud, [...]
BWS Acquires Consolidated Water Ltd. for $7 Million U.S.
The ink has dried on an agreement to purchase Consolidated Water (Belize), the sole water utility on Ambergris Caye. The company has been bought by Belize Water Services Limited with [...]
Water Shortage on La Isla Bonita Should be a Thing of the Past
Belize Water Services is presently undertaking works to upgrade the supply for San Pedro by expanding the existing storage capacity. In July 2018, the company began the construction of an [...]
DYS Condemns Killing of UB Students
The Department of Youth Services condemns the killing of UB students Masaki Yanai and Dwayne Cummings. In a release issued today, the DYS says that it joins with the CARICOM [...]
F.O.B.’s Pier Has Been Repaired
Last November, B.D.F. soldier Private Fidel Williams lost an eye when he tripped and fell on the pier at the Forward Operating Base located at the mouth of the Sarstoon [...]
ComPol Williams Says Operation Safe Zone is Working
Between April and May of last year a string of robberies in the downtown area targeted vendors and businesses and left city residents feeling unsafe to shop. Those incidents, which [...]
Marie Sharp’s Pure Love Pepper Sauce Spreads Love to Domestic Violence Survivors
Belize’s most famous entrepreneur Marie Sharp has teamed up with the U.S. Embassy in Belize to raise funds for victims of domestic violence. Sharp has crafted a new pepper sauce [...]
Fishermen Speak in Favor of Gillnet Ban
The government has begun accepting submissions from the public relating to the use of gillnets in Belize’s waters. As we have been reporting, environmentalist groups have called on the government [...]
A New Fleet of Vehicles in the Fight against Crime
With thirty-one new Wingle pickups added to its existing convoy of vehicles, will the presence of more police officers in the streets of the country make the Belizean citizenry feel [...]
A Horrible Accident in Ladyville
There was an accident on the Philip Goldson Highway in Ladyville just in front of North Gas Station near the junction to the international airport. The amateur video footage we [...]
An Update on F.F.B. Projects
Today, the Football Federation of Belize hosted the media in a roundtable discussion inside the conference room at the Marion Jones Sporting Complex in Belize City. The purpose was to [...]
FIFA’s Forward Fund 2.0
FIFA is also making available to the country access to twelve million dollars over the next four years, from 2019 to 2022, to assist the federation with these projects. That [...]
A National Amateur Beach Soccer League
You may not have heard of it, but a beach soccer competition will begin momentarily and will be hosted primarily in the south and north of the country. It’s part [...]
Renewed Focus on Women’s Football
The Federation is also promoting the inclusion of women in the sport. It’s a big push being made by FIFA across the globe and Belize is no exception. With the [...]
Healthy Living: Life with Epilepsy
World Epilepsy Day was celebrated on February eleventh. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes unprovoked, recurrent seizures. While it is common enough for you to have heard about it, [...]
LOVE FM
30 Brand New Rides for the Cops
Thirty vehicles valued at 1.3 million dollars have been purchased by the Ministry of National Security for the Belize Police Department. The vehicles were handed over to the department in a ceremony where the top brass and Minister John Saldivar spoke of how the vehicles would be disbursed to formations across the country. Commissioner of …
Will San Pedranos get lower Water Rates?
The Government of Belize has provided the loan guarantee, obtaining a CDB grant of US $205,000, and assisting with facilitating the transaction. BWS intends in the future to install more lines to the south of San Pedro Town; improve access to San Mateo; install an underwater crossing to have a main to supply that and …
Duo goes to court for burglarizing Victor L Bryant
20-year-old, Selvin Linarez and 21-year-old, Randy Chambers were before Senior Magistrate, Tricia Pitts-Anderson in the Belize City Magistrate’s Court where they pled not guilty to charges laid against them. The two were jointly charged for the burglary of Victor L Bryant warehouse on Chetumal Boulevard on Tuesday, February 12. They were additionally charged with six …
Belama Phase 4 land, Who is Lu Tsun-Tieh?
The Belama Phase Four land issue has taken an unusual turn. A letter from an attorney was sent to the media to make it clear that the man who everyone spoke of as the alleged owner of the land Alex Chang is not the owner. The letter from a purported attorney Brandon Usher, is saying Chang …
The Reporter
Woman Injured In Traffic Accident
Reports are that a woman was injured in a traffic accident on the Philip Godson Highway sometime after 5:00 this evening. The mishap occurred at North Gas Station near Sky Supermarket and involved a dump truck and a white SUV.
American National Die After Mysterious Corozal Home Invasion
An american is dead another is in the hospital after a home invasion that happened in sleepy quiet Corozal Town. Reports to the REPORTER are that a husband and wife were stabbed at their home last night after a burglar gained entry into their house in Corozal Town around 9 p.m.
More Shooting In The City As Police Clamp Down Even Harder
The victim of last night’s shooting on New Road is Mark Anthony Clarke, 41, of Fredrick Alley. Clarke was shot to the back of head and left upper shoulder shortly after 7:00 pm while standing in front of Two Star Shop at #129 New Road.
Breaking Belize News
3 vehicles involved in road traffic accident
Shortly after 6 pm, three vehicles including a truck were involved in a road traffic accident […]
Erectile Dysfunction on Valentine day: The hard truths
One of the realities, like it or not, about the intimate nature of Valentine’s Day, is […]
Shopking in Belize City robbed at gunpoint
Police are investigating a robbery that occurred yesterday morning at Shopking Shopping Center in Belize City. […]
Dwayne Cummings laid to rest
Today a funeral ceremony is being held for athlete and student, Dwayne Cummings. The event […]
National Student Union of Belize invites students for Peace March
Dear secondary and tertiary institutions;
This coming Monday the 18th of February, 2019, the University of Belize (Belmopan campus) is holding a peace march starting at the parking lot of our central campus at 2pm. […]
Marie Sharp and US Embassy launch ‘Pure Love’ Pepper Sauce
The United States Embassy in Belize in collaboration with Marie Sharp is launching a new […]
IFSC warns of Virtual Currency (Cryptocurrency) exchanges
The International Financial Services Commission (“the IFSC”) today issued a statement saying that it is […]
Unitedville chopping victim in critical condition
Michael Wallace, the 18-year-old Unitedville resident who was chopped to the head at a bus […]
Ankle monitors coming to Belize?
The Ministry of National Security, in an effort to curb rampant gang violence, is considering […]
Big Baby’s local manager asks for Belize’s support in upcoming title fight
Belizean-American Jarrell Miller is about to make history as the first Belizean to fight for […]
American national killed in home invasion
An American national was killed last night in a home invasion in Corozal. According to […]
Department of Youth services condemn senseless killings
The Department of Youth Services (DYS), today, issued a statement condemning the senseless murders of two […]
Guyana gearing up for its big match with Belize
Guyana’s head coach of their national men’s football team, Michael Johnson, told the media in his country […]
American fund manager pleads guilty to Belize airport scam
An American fund manager from New York, Brent Borland, 48, plead guilty on Wednesday to […]
Kiss Your Lobster Goodbye
With the end of lobster season here, I can’t help but find it a tad ironic that Valentine’s Day marks the final day for lobster love. It’s no wonder that sappy poetry and professions of undying love come to mind when this bittersweet time of year comes around. “So long my tasty morsel, my plate is empty without you!”
For the lucky lobster the closed season coincides with their reproductive season, how apropos! Maybe we should we send them off with champagne and romantic music? This is a critical time for populations to recuperate strengthen and recover, so we say, “Go forth and multiply young longostas”!
Belize Cruise Excursions: What To See and Do When You Arrive in Belize
Going on a cruise can feel like a dinner of tapas. Each stop gives you a small taste of the surrounding culture and nature. But there's far too much variety in Belize to enjoy with a single bite. Cruise ship passengers sometimes fall so in love with the country that they almost miss their boat!
But whatever aspect of Belize you want to explore, you can count on Belizing.com to help you make the most of your time. We partner with independent contractors to provide our customers with the most efficient and high-value tours and excursions around. Read on to learn more about the options available to you.
Lots of Love and Three Belize Books
Happy Valentines everyone. Today on this annual celebration of love, I bring you three great Belize books. Why not treat yourself or someone you love to a little bit of Belize.
Sketches from the Heart of a Texas Artist – The Love Necklace Edition by Margaret Elizabeth Hulse. I have met the Texas – Belize Author Margaret in person and commissioned her to do a Belize map for me. She is one of many who came here fell in love and forged a strong bond with the country and its people. I’m glad I get to see her again as I just found out she is back on Ambergris Caye till May. I admire those geographically located people who swing between extended periods in two great places.
SeaDreams Treehouse-Caye Caulker
The SeaDreams Treehouse located at the Split, near the Lazy Lizard. This picturesque spot is a great place to relax in a hammock and enjoy a cocktail while taking in the stunning view of the reef.
And when they say “Treehouse”, they aren’t kidding! This quaint hotel actually surrounds a magnificent Banyan tree. Once you enter the trunk of the treehouse, you find yourself heading up a set of stairs to the little bar. Make sure to order one of their fun specialty drinks -- I had the nummy watermelon martini. Head up another set of stairs to the top of the treehouse, where you are greeted with a couple of hammocks, and a few chairs on this little deck. The views from the deck offer the reef to the east and as you peer north just over the Lazy Lizard, you can enjoy the hustle and bustle. It’s a great place to people watch, listen to the fun music, or just chill with conversation.
International Sources
Los Angeles Travel and Adventure Show
Let us help you explore endless vacation possibilities in Belize - Accommodations to fit your budget- Diving, Snorkeling, Fishing, Cave-tubing, Ziplining, Jungle Tours, Nature Hikes, Waterfall rappelling and so much more! Visit us at booth 545 at the LA Travel and Adventure Show this weekend, February 16 and 17, at the Los Angeles Convention Center. We look forward to seeing you there!
Dispatches from the bottom of Belize's Blue Hole
A team of scientists -- including Virgin billionaire Richard Branson -- has returned from a groundbreaking mission to the bottom of Belize's Great Blue Hole with exciting findings.
The Great Blue Hole is the world's largest sinkhole, measuring an incredible 300 meters (984 feet) across and roughly 125 meters (410 feet) deep.
The team also included Fabien Cousteau, grandson of underwater explorer Jacques Cousteau -- who put the Blue Hole on the map back in 1971. The group embarked on their odyssey in December 2018, determined to discover the secrets at the bottom of the Blue Hole.
Using two submarines, the expedition captured new images and footage inside the Blue Hole and created the first 3D map of its interior.
5 Belize activities for the ultimate adventurer
For those in search of adrenaline-pumping excursions that’ll have you in awe of your fearlessness for years to come, book a trip to Belize. This small Central American country is surprisingly easy to get to, with short direct flights from major U.S. cities offered daily to the Belize City airport.
Filled with lush jungles, countless islands and protected wildlife sanctuaries, it’s home to a range of animals that include the tapir, howler monkeys and the elusive jaguar. Not to mention it’s a birders paradise, boasting over 600 species. In addition, it’s a country that offers travelers the opportunity to explore both natural and cultural wonders such as the Belize Barrier Reef and the ancient Maya civilization.
While Belize offers ample coastline of palm-tree lined white sand beaches to relax on, it’s without a doubt an adventure’s heaven where activities such as cave tubing, spelunking down the sides of massive basins and zip lining through unchartered territory is common-place.
Local artist wants to build future for Belize family
Rob Wright was taking in a shoreline of the Caribbean Sea on his first trip to Belize when he spotted two boys fishing on a wharf. The pair didn’t have rods and instead relied on holding lines with hooked weeds.
They were fishing, as they did every day, so their family could eat dinner. Wright suggested they visit him the next day and borrow his fishing rods.
“I get up at about six the next morning, kinda half asleep, look down the stairs and there’s four eyes looking in,” he said.
The next year Wright and his wife Tammy returned to Belize, and Wright went to see the boys, Ryan and Chris. It was Chris’s 11th birthday, and Wright offered to buy him fishing supplies. The boy proudly declined.
Coffeehouse tips help Belize Student Scholarship Fund
The Mission of the Month for February at the Mission Coffeehouse at First Lutheran Church is Belize Student Scholarship and Assistance Fund.
The First Lutheran Church Mission Team serving in mission in Belize is initiating a Belize Student Scholarship and Assistance Fund. Its purpose is to provide educational assistance for the very poor students of Belize, Central America in the villages where we serve.
Providing books, sewing supplies and other study materials, including tuition, will enable selected students to complete a course of study which may otherwise be unavailable to them.
What does it look like at the bottom of Belize's Blue Hole?
What does it look like at the bottom of Belize's Blue Hole?
Videos
Sea to Shore Alliance - manatee signature fundraiser, 32min. Sea to Shore Alliance will be having its signature fundraiser on 16th February at the Old Belize Pavilion. Cocktails for the Manatee is a Live and Silent Auction held to raise funds for the work of the organization. Jamaal Galvez shared the details of the event and talked with us about the new Adopt a Manatee program.
Ret'd General David Jones - Views on ICJ, 65min. Ret'd General David Jones spoke with us about the security implications of the national vote to the go the ICJ.
Dating Danger Zone, 2.5min. Do you know the warning signs of gender based violence in teen relationships? This public service announcement was produced by Oxa Productions for the Special Envoy for Women and Children in Belize.
Bei den Mennoniten in Little Belize, 3min.
Beautiful sea hares!, .25min.
Coatimundi baby and mom exploring in Belize, .5min.
Maya Center Belize, 8min. This is a short documentary I did for my History class.
Two awesome local artists, 7.5min. Alida Sharp - ‘If Yu Luv Ah’.
Mervin Budram-MD - ‘Save the Children.’ Thanks to Mervin and Alida for joinging the cause to combat Gender-Based Violence!
Combating Gender-Based Violence through Partnership!, 31min. The launch of ‘Pure Love’ Pineapple Habanero Pepper Sauce, a partnership between the U.S. Embassy and Marie Sharp’s Fine Food Ltd! Join us to END Gender-Based Violence!
February 14, 2019
FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE
Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report. Specials and Events
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials
The San Pedro Sun
U.S. Embassy Hands Over Ambulance and Medical Equipment to Belize Coast Guard
Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Keith Gilges represented the United States Government as he handed over an ambulance, lifesaving medical equipment, and the two-year supply of parts and service equipment, valued nearly $128,000 BZD, to the Belize Coast Guard. Admiral Borland spoke on behalf of the Government and people of Belize, emphasizing the strong friendship between our countries. The handover is funded by the Department of State’s Foreign Military Financing (FMF) program. This donation aims to enhance the Coast Guard’s capacity to respond in a timely and comprehensive manner to emergencies along the coast and near its outposts.
San Pedro Tiger Sharks net third win in the 2019 NEBL season
San Pedro Tiger Sharks traveled to the Capital City to take on Belmopan Bandits. The match was not an easy one for the island team, who fell short by 12 points in the first quarter. San Pedro’s Douglas Valley had four rebounds and 20 points in the second quarter, narrowing the gap, but it was not enough. At half time, Bandits retreated to the lockers with a tight 43-42 lead. On Saturday, February 16th, San Pedro Tiger Sharks will travel to Dangriga Town to take on the Dangriga Dream Ballers.
All games on Friday start at 9PM, and on Saturday at 8:30PM
Lobster season closes February 15th
According to a press release from the Fisheries Department, any person found in possession of lobster after February 15th will be prosecuted in accordance with Section 3(1) (b) of the Fisheries Regulation, Chapter 210 of the Subsidiary Laws of Belize Revised Edition 2000-2003.
San Pedro Invaders suffer an 8-1 loss to Orange Walk Gladiators
The San Pedro Invaders girls suffered a devastating loss to Orange Walk Gladiators in the second week of Belize National Amateur Women’s League (NAWL) Closing Season 2019 on Sunday, February 10th. The island girls gave it their best, but at the end of game time, it was a clear victory for the Orange Walk Gladiators with an 8-1 score. For their next match, the San Pedro Invaders will be playing at home against Royal Maya Hill on Saturday, February 16th. The game is scheduled to begin at 5PM at the Ambergris Stadium in San Pedro Town. All islanders are invited to come out and support the girls on their home turf.
Los Catrachos F.C leading Copa San Pedro Closing Season 2019
After five weeks of football action at the Ambergris Stadium in San Pedro Town, leading the Copa San Pedro Closing Season 2019 is Los Catrachos F.C with 15 points.
The first set of matches were held on Thursday, February 7th, starting at 7PM with Captain G’s F.C defeating Island Sharks with a 5-0 score. In the next match, Los Catrachos F.C won 3-0 against Terror Squad F.C. The football tournament continues this weekend, starting on Thursday, February 14th at 7PM.
Ambergris Today
Belize Moves Up 18 Spots In Global Fixed Broadband Ranking
In December 2018, Digi announced that DigiNet customers would be able to enjoy double their internet speeds at no extra cost.
This promotion was extended for the month of January and on Friday February 1st, DigiNet customers celebrated the announcement of another month of double internet speeds for free.
Since this announcement in December, Ookla's speed test Global Index Ranking showed that Belize moved up 18 slots to 79th place in broadband speeds.
Misc Belizean Sources
Ambulance Donated to Coast Guard
Yesterday, the Belize Coast Guard (BCG) received a donation of a new ambulance from the United States Government. The ambulance, along with lifesaving medical equipment, and a two-year supply of parts and service equipment, valued nearly $128,000 BZD, were handed over by Charge d'Affaires a.i. Keith Gilges.
The handover is funded by the Department of State’s Foreign Military Financing (FMF) program. This donation aims to enhance the Coast Guard’s capacity to respond in a timely and comprehensive manner to emergencies along the coast and near its outposts.
Paint N Splash
Hello our beautiful Valentine’s Day painters! Join us tomorrow to paint from 2-4pm Thursday.
CJC EXPO & TRADE SHOW 2019
It is that time of the year. Plan your month of March to include our Corozal Junior College (CJC) EXPO & TRADE SHOW 2019. It will be held on Friday, March 29th, 2019 at the school grounds. Register your booth now. See you there of course!
Channel 7
Police Still Trying to Recover Guns From Heist
Tonight, police are still trying to recover some of the weapons that were stolen from Victor L Bryant in a heist early Tuesday morning. As we reported, a group of men got into the building - for the second time in a week. But, while the thieves didn't get anything on the first burglary - they cleaned out the inventory of guns the second time around.
Quick police work led to the recovery of 18 firearms along with several thousand rounds of ammunition.
But, our reports say that two shotguns and two .22 rifles may still be unaccounted for - and today, police paramilitary type operations continued in the city to try and find these weapons.
Alleged Mexican ATM scammers Get Off, Again
2 weeks ago, we told you how the Mexicans, Belen Hernandez, Joscat Jafet Hernandez and Lionel Isaac Rodriguez, were freed of theft charges in Corozal.
Police could not prove before the town Magistrate that the trio had stolen a significant amount of money from Atlantic Bank by using credit card fraud back in January 2018. Well tonight, the news is that they've fought criminal charges brought against them in Orange Walk, and they've been acquitted of those as well.
Police had arrested and charged Belen Hernandez with 2 counts of theft and Leonel Peralta Rodriguez with 9 counts of theft, which they allegedly committed against Atlantic Bank in Orange Walk. Their trial took place before Senior Magistrate Patricia Arana, and the prosecution called 3 witnesses to testify, 2 employees of Atlantic Bank, and Inspector Wilfredo Ferrufino, the arresting officer.
Senior Officer Accused of Assaulting Constable, Bursting His Head
Tonight, a police constable wants to press charges of assault against a police inspector - after, the senior officer allegedly burst his head last night.
The news came to light this morning after police corporal on interdiction Darrell "Tutsi" Usher - who has become a sort of real time ombudsman for police complaints - posted it on his facebook page.
Apparently, the recently installed Commander of one of the specialized units, pulled up at a police checkpoint in the city, and the constable did not salute him.
The Ankle Monitor Proposition
On Monday's news, we told you how the Ministry of National Security is considering the use of ankle monitors for repeat offenders.
Ankle monitors are used in other jurisdictions like the US to keep track, via GPS, of the movement of criminals. The device is placed on the law breaker's ankle, and it allows the authorities to track the wearer's movement, allowing law enforcement to know where he or she is at all times.
Well, the Ministry of National Security is considering bringing the technology to Belize, especially for and a press release says, quote, "The Minister… established an exploratory committee to examine the feasibility of a repeat gun offence law..."
Improvements Made On Pier That Injured Soldier
The media also took the opportunity to ask Saldivar about the pier at Sarstoon Forward Operating Base.
You'll remember that Private Fidel Williams, a BDF soldier posted at the base, lost an eye when he had an accident on the pier back in November of last year. He was preparing a boat for patrol when he slipped and fell in to the water. He fell on a steel upright which penetrated his left eye socket.
Well, since then, the Ministry has been been overseeing repairs to the pier, and when the media asked Saldivar about it today, he said said that he is satisfied with the work that has been done:
Big Baby's & Belize's Big Shot At The Belts
As we told you two weeks ago, Belizean - American Jarrell Big Baby Miller is fighting for the World Heavyweight Title.
The fight is now all set for June first at the Madison Square Garden in New York City, which is Big Baby's adopted hometown after leaving Belize at the age of eight.
No Belizean has ever fought for the chance to hold the wold heavyweight title - and so this is as big as it gets. This evening, his local managers told us it is an opportunity for Belizean fans and corporations to show their muscle internationally:
Potato Problems Plentiful
The Ministry of Agriculture has announced that Belizean farmers will be producing 3.5 million pounds of potatoes this year.
And tonight, PUP Shadow Minister of Agriculture Jose Mai says that based on a consumption of what the Ministry says is one hundred thousand pounds of potatoes weekly, the farmers stand to lose substantially. Here's how he put it today:..
Hon. Jose Mai, OW South Area Representative:
"That from the amount of potatoes planted which is in this press release: 348 acres - 3.75 million pounds of potatoes. Consuming 100,000 pounds per week we will have potatoes for 8.9 months of the year. When you know that the nature, because the nature of potatoes are high in starch..."
The Hakimi Vision
Last night you saw a snippet of developer Karim Hakimi's exclusive interview with 7News. He says his towering Belize Dive Haven Resort is just what the Turneffe Atoll needed to boost the aesthetics of the place and to increase tourist arrivals. The Turneffe Atoll Trust - whcih sees things from a conservation perspective - begs to differ. Courtney Weatherburne takes a closer look at Hakimi's investment outlook on his resort and what makes it so special.
Sir Karim Hakimi's life is a rags to riches story. He was a poor Iranian blacksmith and now he is a multi-millionaire known for his chain, Hakim Optical, the largest privately owned chain in Canada.
Hakimi Says Waste Will Be Managed
Another concern the Atoll Trust has is how will Belize Dive Haven Resort dispose of solid waste. Sir Hakimi says he's got it under control and no waste will be released into the sea.
Sir Karim Hakimi, Owner, Belize Dive Haven
"We spent almost a quarter million dollars to put a British design sewage that it goes through the system and the solid separate from the liquid and the water that comes out of it becomes drinking water, the water almost becomes drinking water. You can put fish in it and it lives forever. We use it for agriculture and for trees."
Hakimi Has Investment Formulas
Belize Dive Haven isn't the only investment Sir Hakimi has in Belize. He has a pizzeria at mile 8 on the Philip Goldson Highway which he will expand. He plans on opening a luxury restaurant, a rooftop disco and a shipyard at the same mile 8 location. He told us more about his upcoming projects.
Sir Karim Hakimi, Owner, Belize Dive Haven:
"What I am trying to do is have a shipyard so all the big boats can be repaired here and nothing goes out of this country in fact get big boats from the other area come here especially from the US."
Water Relief For San Pedro From BWS
Last year at Easter San Pedro ran out of water - because the local water company, Consolidated, could not provide enough to the island at capacity. Well that should ease somewhat this year, and by 2020, it should be a distant memory. That's because Belize Water Services has paid Consolidated Water 7 million US dollars for Belize subsidiary.
As we understand it, the money was transferred from the CDB to Consolidated today and that makes the sale final.
The ICJ Message in Belmopan
April 10th now only 8 weeks away, and on that date, Belizean voters will go to the polls and decide whether we should submit Guatemala's territorial claim to the International Court of Justice.
But, if you listen to the Opposition Party, they'll tell you that the Government's ICJ education campaign hasn't been robust enough to properly education Belizeans about the benefits and risks of seeking to resolve the territorial dispute at the ICJ.
Cross Accusers To Court
On Friday's news, we told you about the chopping incident in Lords Bank Village which left 41 year-old Enrique Pandy hospitalized with his left index finger partially severed. Well, both he and his attacker have been arrested and charged for this altercation.
Pandy, and 49 year-old Orlando Reyes were both arraigned before Magistrate Michelle Trapp. Pandy is charged with wounding, while Reyes is charged with grievous harm.
Cops Awarded For Stellar Performance
Last night, we told you about the 18 guns and the several thousand rounds of ammunition that the police were able to recover hours after thieves broke into the Victor L Bryant gun store, located on Lake I Boulevard in Belize City.
The cops were able to retrieve all those weapons, and detained the suspects through sharp police work. The police top brass wants to encourage that type of initiative, and today, they held an award ceremony to recognize these cops as well as others for high level performance while on the job.
Coast Guard Makes Mentors
Another praiseworthy law enforcement initiative is the Coast Guard's Sea Cadet mentorship program. We spoke to the coordinator yesterday and he said it truly is a positive and life changing experience for Belize city boys. Lt. Gilroy Lewis told us more.
The mentorship program guides the boys throughout their primary school years. The program has been ongoing for 1 year and a half.
The New IBC Reality
Due to stringent anti money laundering and tax reporting requirements, the landscape for international business companies in Belize has changed drastically.
And, after a rigorous appraisal by the The Organization for Economic Co-operation for Development Forum on Harmful Tax Practices at the start of this year, members of the Belize International Financial services Association are adjusting to the new realities.
They brought in an expert from Panama for that purpose. Treasurer Ava Lovell- Belisle told us more:..
Poaching No Laughing Matter at Laughing Bird
The Southern Environmental Association is reporting that they've caught a tour guide conducting illegal fishing activities within the Laughing Bird Caye National Park.
Yesterday morning, a joint enforcement team consisting of SEA rangers and 2 Coast Guard offices conducted a search on a vessel, "Shen", which was anchored within the national park. The officers found 1 lobster tail; 5 pieces of fillet fish; and pieces of conch, 2 of which were under the legal size.
Another Shooting...
And, as we close tonight, it is with the news that there has been another shooting in the city. This one happened a few minutes at the corner of New Road and Cleghorn - near the gas station. Fortunately, we are told it is not fatal. We note that this area has been the site of repeated shootings over the years. The neighborhood is fraught with gang rivals living within blocks of each other.
Channel 5
Recognizing Hardworking Cops for Recent Guns & Ammo Recovery Mission
As many as forty firearms and a stockpile of ammunition have been removed from the streets of Belize. In our newscast on Tuesday night, the lead story was a massive [...]
Ministry of National Security Considering Ankle Monitors for Repeat Offenders
Minister of National Security John Saldivar says that 2019 will be the year of technology within the police department. Today, he told the press that the department will be meeting [...]
Minister Saldivar Says Ankle Monitors Help Curb Crime
Minister Saldivar spoke with the press following his presentation. He says that while there may be concerns about the use of the tracking devices, they are making sure that the [...]
2 Senior Citizens Caught with over 7 Pounds of Weed
Two men were jointly charged today and arraigned for drug related offenses after they were caught on February eleventh with over seven pounds of weed. Sixty-one-year-old Ralston McDonald and fifty-three-year-old [...]
‘Chop Fi Chop;’ Feuding Ladyville Residents End Up in Court
A pair of feuding Ladyville residents appeared in court today for their alleged involvement in a chopping incident that left both men suffering from injuries to the body. The ‘chop [...]
76 Foreigners Receive Belizean Nationality
They hail from nineteen countries around the world and on Monday seventy-six foreigners officially became Belizeans. A swearing-in ceremony was held at the George Price Centre for Peace and Development [...]
New Belizeans Eligible to Vote in Upcoming I.C.J. Referendum
During the swearing in ceremony, Immigration Minister Beverly Williams donned her political hat, advising the new Belizeans to register and vote in the upcoming I.C.J. Referendum. With less than three [...]
No Guatemalan Granted Belizean Nationality
So if you are wondering if any nationality certificate was issued to Guatemalan citizens, the short answer is no. According to the Director of the Nationality and Passport Department, Mario [...]
Belmopan Area Rep Says Belize’s I.C.J. Case Not Similar to Other Cases
Minister of National Security John Saldivar also weighed in on the I.C.J. referendum today. He says that he is for going to the I.C.J. and believes that it is the [...]
I.C.J. Referendum Campaign Ongoing in Belmopan
And so, Saldivar says he is making sure that his constituents know the facts of the case so that they can make an informed decision on April tenth. He says [...]
Peace Movement Turns to Nigeria/Cameroon Territorial Dispute
The Belize Peace Movement, proponents of a ‘no’ vote in the upcoming I.C.J. referendum, is hitching its wagon to an ostensible legal opinion being put forward by a purported Nigerian [...]
Jose Mai Takes Ministry of Agriculture to Task over Potato Bumper Crop
On Tuesday, Chief Agriculture Officer Andrew Harrison issued a press release explaining the potato planting season for 2018/2019. According to the government representative, the Ministry of Agriculture met with potato [...]
Barton Creek Potato Farmers Planted Wisely
The last license for imported potatoes was issued on January eleventh for two hundred thousand pounds and the final date which those potatoes could have been brought into the country [...]
Notice to Vacate Property Issued to Single Mother of 2
A notice to vacate a property in Belmopan was issued on Monday to a single mother of two. Nicolasa Cus says she has been living on parcel eight-four-one-seven, situated in [...]
Paulette Elrington No Longer Employed with G.O.B.
Paulette Elrington, daughter of Foreign Affairs Minister Wilfred Elrington, is no longer in the employment of the Government of Belize. This is according to a letter dated February seventh, 2019. [...]
Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman Guilty
The world’s most infamous and feared drug cartel boss Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman was found guilty on Tuesday by a U.S. Judge. The sixty-one-year-old international drug lord was convicted on [...]
Dr. Lorna McKay’s Fate Still in Limbo
The fate of Doctor Lorna McKay as Gwen Liz Principal remains in the hands of the Teaching Services Commission. It has been one year and a half since Doctor McKay [...]
M.O.E. and B.N.T.U. Continue Negotiations
Education Minister, Patrick Faber, also spoke on the ongoing negotiations with the Belize National Teachers’ Union. According to Faber, while he has taken a bench, senior ministry officials have been [...]
Anti Money Laundering – Subject of BIFSA Workshop
The Belize International Financial Sector Association, BIFSA, held a one-day training for stakeholders in that area of corporate business. The session which was held at the Biltmore Plaza focused on [...]
Offshore Banking and Transparency
International Tax attorney Jose Romero, who has established a firm in Panama, was the presenter at today’s workshop. He discussed the challenges to the financial sector with regards to offshore [...]
LOVE FM
Praises for the Cops who thwarted Weapons burglary
The police department has recovered 2 point twenty-two revolvers, 3 point twenty-eight revolvers, 5 twelve gauge pump action shotguns, 8 point twenty-two rifles, 4,000 nine-millimeter rounds, 150 point thirty-eight rounds and 750 twelve gauge cartridges following the burglary at Victor L Bryant on Chetumal Boulevard. At this morning’s award ceremony, the Minister of National Security …
Acknowledging the Good Cops
39 officers were awarded by the police department this morning at the Queen Street Police Station. The men and women were singled out for their dedication, bravery, hard work and enthusiasm on the job. Commissioner of Police Chester Williams said that though he is tough on the officers, they deserve the accolades in the presence …
IS the ICJ Final? A jury of our peers.
We had a chance to speak to the Minister about the ICJ campaign in the Capital and more importantly how he views our chances with winning the claim. We mentioned the fact that following a 2012 ruling at the ICJ, Colombia has rejected the ICJ and reasserted control over seas it lost to Nicaragua at …
BIFSA holds CRI/AML Seminar
In 2016, Belize passed a new law, the Automatic Exchange of Information, in an effort to crackdown on tax evasion and money laundering. The new law allows for the exchange of financial information with other countries. In this regard, the Belize International Financial Services Association, BIFSA, held a one-day seminar to familiarize persons in the …
Ankle Monitors for repeat offenders?
The ceremony was also attended by Commander of Operations Edward Broaster, Deputy Commissioner Marco Vidal and no less than the Minister of National Security John Saldivar. A few days ago, Minister Saldivar established an exploratory committee to examine the feasibility of a repeat gun offence law that would require some people to wear ankle bracelets. …
Potatoes to Mexico?
And while that is imminent this year, Mai says that there may be a possible solution. While he admits it may come with challenges, he says government should look into exporting Belizean grown red potatoes into Mexico. Jose Mai: “We have imported potatoes for 50 years from Mexico. We have exported nothing to them. The …
Cohune Walk Belmopan smells like bagasse and feces
There’s a foul odor that has risen over Cohune Walk in Belmopan. No it’s not the result of a squabble between the political parties in parliament but a pungent smell that seems to combine the malodor of human waste with bagasse. That’s the most pleasant way it can be described but fingers have been pointed …
Orange Walk South Area Representative says Government to blame for potato losses
Area Representative for Orange Walk South, Jose Mai still places the plight of the potato farmers squarely in the lap of the government. Following a press release from the Ministry of Agriculture, Mai says he agrees that the coordination by the department to allow for a steady supply of potatoes on the market was “ok” …
Student assaulted by teacher
An 8-year-old student was allegedly assaulted in the eye by a primary school teacher at Queen’s Square Anglican in Belize City. The mother explained to Love News that the incident occurred on Wednesday, January 16. Since then the young boy has been having issues with the injured eye. Celida Lamb Mother of Victim: “I met …
Breaking Belize News
Young man chopped to the head in Unitedville
A young man from Unitedville was chopped to the head earlier tonight as he was […]
Mark Clarke, 41, shot in Belize City a short while ago
Our newsroom has confirmed that the victim in tonight’s shooting is Mark Anthony Clarke, 41. He […]
Minister of Education presents license to Monsignor School
Today, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Patrick Faber handed over a license certificate for […]
One person shot in Belize City
BBN has confirmed there was a shooting in Belize City minutes ago. We understand that […]
Suspect in Chicago shooting identified as Belizean gang member from Taylor’s Alley
According to a report from Erie News Now, one of the suspects charged with a shootout […]
Belize ranks 4th in global murder rate
Belize is one of five Caribbean countries that make up the top 10 countries with […]
Sacred Heart to inaugurate new Junior College building
Sacred Heart Junior College (SHJC) in San Ignacio town is preparing to inaugurate its new […]
Belize Rugby Union says ‘Stop the senseless killing’
The Belize Rugby Football Union issued a statement yesterday calling for a stop to the […]
Cool conditions to continue
The National Meteorological Service of Belize informs that a cold front passing over the Yucatan […]
Minister Faber to present Statues to the Public
ON Friday, February 15, Minister of Education, Patrick Faber will formally present new statues at […]
Coastal Zone training underway in Belize City
The Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC), in collaboration with the Government of Belize, is […]
IFSC warns of unlicensed financial firms
The International Financial Services Commission (IFSC) of Belize recently released a list of asset managers […]
US Embassy hands over $128,000 worth of medical equipment to Coast Guard
Yesterday, the United States Embassy handed over an ambulance and other medical equipment valued at […]
Police officer alleges abuse by senior cop on junior officer
Police officer, Darrel Usher, who previously exposed the conditions of the Queen Street police station […]
PUP elects new Eastern Caucus executive
Last night, the People’s United Party (PUP) held election for its Eastern Caucus. Deputy Mayor of […]
On Your Mark…Get Set…Crawl! Hermit Crab Races at Crazy Canuck’s Beach Bar
Crazy Canuck’s, located just south of town right on the beach, has found so many ways to differentiate themselves. They’ve got an awesome view, friendly staff and some popular events all week long. But the most unique (some might say weird) weekly party takes place on Tuesday evenings – when a crowd gathers to bet on the hermit crab races. They’ve been doing it for THREE YEARS! It was one of the most memorable things my nephews did on their visit last year. I arrived a bit early – for some remaining daylight and to get a seat. There are tons of tables set up at the beach and by 6:30pm – crab time – they were almost all full.
Belize Tourism Expo (BETEX)
Romance, adventure, nature, rustic, luxury, budget...Belize offers it all and much more.
Meet with Suppliers at BETEX 2019 and build the Belize package to your clients needs.
Join us and be part of the Belize Tourism Expo (BETEX) Road Show. Coming to Placencia, Cayo and San Pedro from May 8-13, 2019.
Contact us at betex@btia.org or for more information visit www.betex.bz.
The monuments at Caracol being are being stabilized for better preservation
International Sources
New York fund manager pleads guilty to Belize airport scam
A New York investment manager pleaded guilty on Wednesday to running a $21.9 million fraud in which he falsely told dozens of investors their money was being used to build an international airport in Belize, the U.S. Department of Justice said.
Brent Borland, 48, a principal at Borland Capital Group, pleaded to one count each of securities fraud, wire fraud and conspiracy before U.S. District Judge Katherine Polk Failla in Manhattan, the Justice Department said.
The fraud counts each carry a maximum 20-year prison term. A federal public defender representing Borland did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Highly Unusual Upward Trends in Rapidly Intensifying Atlantic Hurricanes Blamed on Global Warming
Atlantic hurricanes showed “highly unusual” upward trends in rapid intensification during the period 1982 – 2009 that can only be explained by including human-caused climate change as a contributing cause, according to research published last week in Nature Communications. The study, led by NOAA/GFDL hurricane scientist Kieran Bhatia, was titled, Recent increases in tropical cyclone intensification rates.
The paper used two different data sets to study historical tropical cyclone intensification rates: a relatively coarse-resolution satellite data set (HURSAT), and a higher-resolution “best track” data set (IBTrACS) that included all available data, including satellite and hurricane hunter data. Both data sets found that for the Atlantic, there was a significant increase in the proportion of 24-hour intensification rates greater than 30 knots (35 mph) between 1982 and 2009. The greatest change was seen for the strongest 5% of storms, whose intensification rates increased by 3 – 4 knots per decade.
NEW YORK FUND MANAGER PLEADS GUILTY TO BELIZE AIRPORT SCAM
A New York investment manager pleaded guilty on Wednesday to running a $21.9 million fraud in which he falsely told dozens of investors their money was being used to build an international airport in Belize, the U.S. Department of Justice said. Brent Borland, 48, a principal at Borland Capital Group, pleaded to one count each of securities fraud, wire fraud and conspiracy before U.S. District Judge Katherine Polk Failla in Manhattan, the Justice Department said.
The fraud counts each carry a maximum 20-year prison term. A federal public defender representing Borland did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Black History Month: The Black Caribs / Garifunas
According to UNESCO, ignorance or concealment of major historical events constitutes an obstacle to mutual understanding, reconciliation and cooperation among peoples. The celebration of Black History Month in the USA, is an opportune time to tell the story of the Black Caribs / Garifunas.
The Black Caribs or Garifunas, are the largest ethnic minority in Honduras. They are the descendants of African-Carib-Arawak populations from the Caribbean island of St Vincent who were forcibly deported to the Honduran coast in the eighteenth century.
As survivors of shipwrecks, Africans, sought refuge in mainland St. Vincent. The vast majority of Africans were males who intermingled with Carib and Arawak women and produced a generation of free mixed-race people.
Videos
Belize 2018, 20min. One week in Belize from island to jungle and a lot of things to see and do in between.
Belize Zoo 2018, 2.5min. One of the finest zoos in the Americas South of the US, and long recognised as a phenomenal conservation achievement, the Belize Zoo opened in 1983 after an ambitious wildlife film (Path of the Rain God) left Sharon Matola, the film's production assistant, with a collection of 17 semi-tame animals, bought from dealers or people who raised them as pets, no longer able to fend for themselves in the wild.
Harvest Caye, Belize - Harvest Caye Full Tour (2019), 14min. Harvest Caye is a private island owned by Norwegian Cruise Line, located in southern Belize. The caye features wildlife exhibitions including a blue morpho butterfly house.
San Ignacio (12403kms parcourus) Belize., 4.5min. une journée cool entourés d'iguanes et avec un belle visite de temples maya.
A statement to the people of Belize, 3min. From a Nigerian attorney who shares her experience when Nigeria lost territory to Cameroon after their government told them there was no way they could lose at the ICJ.
Visiting a Mayan Cacao Farm On Your Belize Honeymoon, 1.5min. If you're honeymooning in Belize, the Che'Il Cacao Farm and Chocolate Factory is a must stop on any itinerary. This organic Mayan farm has been a working operation for generations. Take a trip into the cacao fields with the farmer, taste a raw cacao bean right out of the pod, and experience making your very own chocolate bar from start to finish. It's a sweet addition to any Belize vacation!
Hummingbirds - Belize 2019, 3min. Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.
White-necked Jacobin, Rufous-tailed Hummingbird, Green-breasted Mango and White-bellied Emerald
The Amazing Beautiful Garifuna People of Hopkins Belize, 2.5min. A luck day at Lauruna Hati started with the best cassava fries and ice cold beer and a wonderful surprise as Hopkins Uncut shows up with C Wills and the Hopkins Boys for a musical treat as The Travel Channel films. The Garifuna people is what makes Hopkins the incredible Village it is.
HOL CHAN MARINE RESERVE & MORE SNORKEL SPOTS, BELIZE, 8.5min.
Sports Talk Show, 60min.
Ya’axché’s rangers patrol one of the most beautiful places on Earth – Bladen Nature Reserve; here is a video that they have shared!, 1/2min. Bladen provides much needed clean water to local communities, the agriculture sector and the Belize Barrier Reef. This 99,796 acre nature reserve has the highest category of protection status for any protected area in Belize – only research and educational activities are allowed and must be accompanied by a permit.
February 13, 2019
FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE
Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report. Specials and Events
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials
The San Pedro Sun
San Pedro Pirates 4-1 win against Wagiya Sporting Club puts the team in PLB second place position
For the fifth week of the Premiere League of Belize (PLB) Closing Season 2019 the San Pedro Pirates hosted Wagiya Sporting Club at the Ambergris Stadium in San Pedro Town on Saturday, February 9th. With this 4-1 victory over Wagiya Sporting Club, the island team has claimed the second place position in this week’s chart standings, with nine points.
The match began shortly after 7PM, with the Pirates determined for a home victory. They quickly scored their first goal at minute eight courtesy of Luis Valdez. A few minutes later, Wagiya’s Highking Roberts responded with a goal for his team. With those early scores, the match intensified, and at minute 24, Pirates’ Valdez found his way once more to the net and scored another goal. The match then saw solid crosses and passes, but no score, and went to a break with Pirates leading 2-1.
San Pedro’s fitness community rows a marathon to raise funds for Miss San Pedro Chelsea Muńoz
A total of 18 teams and over 100 persons participated in a marathon rowing fundraiser dubbed ‘Row for the Crown,’ on Sunday, February 10th, to help Miss San Pedro 2018-2019, Chelsea Muńoz who has been diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma. Held at CrossFit San Pedro Town- on Manta Ray Street, each five-member team was tasked to raise $500, then had to row a total of 42, 195 meters (26.5 miles) in under four hours. The all-day event also included music and plenty of food and drinks available for purchase.
The sporting event started at 8AM, and for the next four hours, seven teams (The Young and the Breathless, Sweat and Sparkle for Survival, Just Row With It, Team Freedom, The Truck Stop, Meters, Blisters and Sore Sisters, and Sandbar) took over the CrossFit box. These teams went hard at it, with some of them finishing in under three hours.
Crazy Canucks presents ‘Back to Prom 2019!’
Prom Night came early this year to San Pedro Town, and it didn’t involve the traditional senior high school students! Under the title ‘Back to Prom 2019,’ Crazy Canucks Beach Bar debuted their first prom party on Saturday, February 9th, inviting their patrons to join in and relive the memorable past complete with music hits from the ’70s, ‘80s, and ’90s. The beautifully decorated bar saw the best of prom outfits, and there was even the selection of a Prom Queen and King.
Dressed in elegant gowns and creative suits, couples began arriving at the party by 7PM. DJ Smallz started the party with hits from the ’70s leading gradually into the ’80s. The dance floor was busy with couples dancing away to their favorite tracks and reliving their prom night all over again. Many of the attendees told The San Pedro Sun that having a prom by the beach was a genius idea.
Ambergris Today
Belize Fisheries Tries New Pioneering Digital Technology
The Belize Fisheries Department, National Fishermen Cooperative and The Nature Conservancy in Belize trial a pioneering technology to digitize fisheries supply chain. *An innovative new technology, Tally from ThisFish, was showcased at the National Fishermen Cooperative in Belize City, Belize to improve efficiencies in the processing plant and strengthen electronic seafood traceability.
Minister Of National Security Explores Law For Repeat Gun Offenders To Use Tracking Device
The Minister of National Security today established an exploratory committee to examine the feasibility of a repeat gun offence law.
The law would require repeat gun offenders and convicted gang members to wear a tracking device when they are released from prison to enable police to compare those persons’ location to the scene of a crime at the time the crime is committed.
A similar pilot project has been launched for knife crime offenders in London, England where there has been an upsurge in violent crimes recently.
Misc Belizean Sources
Laguna Drive by Compadres Bar closed for 24 hours (San Pedro)
The public is advised that Laguna Drive by Compadres bar will be closed to all traffic for 24 hrs, Wednesday 13th February, Small vehicles will be diverted to the beach road. No heavy vehicles will be allowed to pass or use the detour, please make alternative arrangements for any deliveries you may have for this day. This is necessary to carry out repairs to the street. We apologize for any inconvenience caused.
Potato Planting Season 2018-19
To coordinate the start of local harvesting and the cutoff point of imported potatoes, the Ministry of Agriculture convened a meeting with potato producers from Cayo, Corozal, Orange Walk and Stann Creek Districts on January 16, 2019. The objective of the meeting was to present the 2019 potato projections and to agree on the dates for the commencement of the harvesting of potatoes.
The outcome of the meeting was for the Cayo potato fields to be harvested commencing January 30, 2019, and Corozal, Orange Walk and Stann Creek potato fields to be harvested commencing February 15, 2019. If the agreement was adhered to, San Carlos Village in the Orange Walk District would begin harvesting on Friday, February 15th.
Corozal House of Culture s 7th Anniversay Celebration
featuring
COROZAL SUSTAINABLE FUTURE INITIATIVE CSFI
Friday February 22, 2019 9am - 3pm
Information sessions, tracking techniques interactive activities.
Live Comedy with Brad Reeder!
Join us for a night of laughter with our professional comedy show starring Brad Reeder, seen on TV's Showtime, Comedy Central and Last Comic Standing. Brad has opened for Jay Leno, Jerry Seinfeld and Ellen Degeneres, and he has headlined regularly in Las Vegas and Atlantic City. Iguana Juan's Restaurant & Bar, Corner of Angel Coral (Back Street) & Pelican St., Upstairs on corner, San Pedro.
Tickets are $30 BZD plus service fees online, or stop by Iguana Juan's to buy them in person (and stay for a burger and beer!).
Comedy Show Schedule
(All shows 8:30-10:00 and rated Mild R)
Feb. 13,
Feb. 27,
March 13,
March 27,
April 10,
April 24.
Corozal's Love Fair
Oceana and Department of Youth Services are once again hosting Corozal's Love Fair at Corozal Central Park on Thursday, February 14th starting at 9:00 a.m. Come out and meet the many organizations working to promote Love for self, love for community and love for the environment. All attendees are eligible to win one of the many items being raffled during the event from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Encounter with Sylvia Batty
Come to learn more about archaeological research in Belize! The St. John's College HISTORY CLUB presents an encounter with Sylvia Batty, archaeologist and researcher.
13th February 2019 3:15 pm Art Centre. St. John's College, Belize City. Belize
Closure of the Lobster Fishing Season
The Fisheries Department informs fishers and the public that the lobster season will be closed on February 15th and it will remain closed until midnight of June 14th, 2019.
Any person found in possession of lobster during the said closed season will be prosecuted in accordance with Section 3(1) (b) of the Fisheries Regulation, Chapter 210 of the Subsidiary Laws of Belize Revised Edition 2000-2003.
Caribbean Culture and Lifestyle Issue 5 - 2019
Within the Adventure issue, readers looking for an extreme adventure or a more relaxed one, will find that Belize is the place to let their inner explorer loose. Read about how you can push your limits, hiking the mother of all trails, the Victoria Peak Natural Monument. Consider joining in on a Kayak race that runs the length of the country’s coast. Find a guide for the adventure curious to suit every fitness level, and delve deeper into the Belizean experience with a piece on a Maya Homestay that will have you dreaming of grinding your own cacao beans! Find the magazine in all the seat back pockets of Maya’s planes or in affiliated hotel rooms. You can also enjoy this pleasant read online. The E-book version is available on the website.
CFA-U-Tournament Closing Season
Let's support our youth and footbal action:
It seems this sport has taken off in our Corozal community. Come out and support our youth this weekend Sunday, February 17th at the Ricalde Stadium . U10 Male - U13 Male - U15 Male - U19 Male - NAWL Game. Football Action
Belize Sugar Industries limited need IT Specialist
Belize Sugar Industries Limited invites qualified and motivated individuals to submit applications for the position of IT Site Support Specialist in its Information Technology Department at Tower Hill, Orange Walk District.
Kukulkan as a representation of Venus
Our Maya ancestors were able to predict the movements of the spectacular object known popularly as the morning star(Noh Eek') with great accuracy, thousands of years into the future.
The most important planet by far to the Maya was Venus, which they associated with war. Battles and wars would be arranged to coincide with the movements of Venus.
Channel 7
Thieves Took Trove of Weapons From Gun Dealer, Cops Got It Back
Tonight, the police have recovered a stockpile of weapons which almost made it unto the streets of Belize City, after thieves broke into a gun store.
Early this morning, Victor L Bryant, a gun vendor on Lake I Boulevard, was burglarized, and a large quantity of firearms - including high powered rifles and pistols were stolen.
But, quick police work saw the cops deploy immediately, and sharp investigative work led them to retrieve these 18 firearms, and several thousand live rounds of ammunition, which had been stashed in several hiding spots across the City.
Police have detained several men, but they continue to be concerned that that some fo the guns have still not been recovered.
Cops Charge Hard Into Southside to Recover Weapons
And to recover the stolen weapons - police operational units went charging hard into the Southside this morning.
There was heightened paramilitary type police activity in several parts of the city, including the Queen Square and Mayflower areas.
This morning, concerned residents - who report hearing taser guns going off inside residences - called us to come out and view it for ourselves. The police commissioner told us that these operations were necessary because they had to flush out culprits from the Victor L Bryant burglary, who were hiding in these neighborhoods. Here's how he briefly explained it to us today:
A Guate, A Belizean and A Minor Charged for Pair of AK's in Benque
Tonight, three men have been charged for those big guns police busted in Benque Viejo on Sunday morning. 34 year old Belizean, Edgar Giovanni De La O, 26 year old Guatemalan, Jorge Luis Reyes Villeda, and a 17 year old minor were jointly charged for (2) counts of "Kept Prohibited Firearm" jointly for (2) counts of Kept "Prohibited Ammunition".
As we told you last night, two of the them were in a Range Rover with a pair of AK 47 rifles and ammunition inside - while the other accused caught in a struggle with police outside the Rover - which he was allegedly trying to drive off.
Tutsi Gets off Weed Trafficking Charge
Last week, police corporal Darrell Tutsi Usher made national headlines when he published photos of the abominable conditions at the Queen St. station's detention cell.
At the time, he was being detained pending charges of discharging a firearm in public - and as we noted at the time, he was already under interdiction. Last week's firearm charge was dropped and the news tonight is that, now, he has been found not guilty of drug trafficking.
Senator Courtney Calls On Gov't To Stop Using Him In Pro-ICJ Ads
The "Vote Yes to the ICJ" campaign is ramping up as the referendum date draws near. And, their most recent set of ads has featured former PUP foreign Minister Eamon Courtney - back when he was pro-ICJ. Courtenay, as has been well publicized, is now staunchly opposed to going to the ICJ under the present configuration - and has - along with other PUP leaders - proposed what they call "a deep freeze" - which is to suspend Belize - Guatemala negotiations for 25 years.
So, he's not with the current yes vote campaign but the ads, using his remarks from some years ago have him speaking in favour of the ICJ.
Coast Guard Ejecting Island Squatters
On Friday we showed you how the coast guard forcibly evicted the "Sanbore" squatters. The area is located 16 miles southeast of Placencia, north of the Sapodilla Caye Range. We showed you amateur video of the eviction scene on Friday. The residents say they had been there 12 years and were ejected without any lawful authority.
Well, today, we spoke to Vice Commandant of the Coast Guard and he told us that they acted within the law to evict the squatters and that the coast guard gave them enough warnings and time to move out.
Notorious Belgrave Shot In Illinois Heroin Deal
The name Jermaine Belgrave has been in this news many times. The Taylor's Alley resident was charged for murder in 2011, and then a number of high profile robberies - including an armed bank robbery at First Caribbean in 2015.
But tonight the 36 year old is making crime news in Illinois. That's after he and another man with roots in Belize were shot while - allegedly - trying to sell heroine. It happened in the city of Eerie Illinois, and here's the report from "Eerie News Now":
An American Ambulance For The CG
Normally when we hear about a US Embassy donation to the Coast Guard, it would include tactical gear and operational equipment. Well, today instead of vessels and body armour, the Coast Guard got its first, very own ambulance. It may seem like an unusual gift to the coast guard but commander Elton Bennett says this donation is just as important as all the other equipment.
Elton Bennett, Belize Coast Guard Commander:
"We do work in a very high risk environment and we do have situations that we deal with from time to time and we have had a few near death experiences for example in 2005, one of our colleagues were shot in the head after returning from patrol and he had to be rushed in the KHMH in Belize City..."
The Venezuelan Crisis, Both Sides Now
Last night you saw a brief portion of our interview with the Venezuelan Ambassador to Belize, Gerardo Argote speaking about the political crisis in that country. Argote told us that there was not really a crisis - but more of a manufactured western media event - orchestrated to destabilize president Nicholas Maduro.
Tonight we have the other side of that story from the US Embassy's Charge d Affaires, Keith Gilges.
We asked him first about the US decision to freeze the accounts of the Venezuelan government:
Candles and Tears For Dwayne and Masaki
On Friday and Monday, the headlines were dominated by the devastating news of two University students, one 19, and the other 20 senselessly murdered.
19 year-old Masaki Yanai was killed on last Thursday evening at his family home in Belize City when he tried to defend his dad from armed robbers.
And, on Saturday night, 20 year-old Dwayne Cummings-Avila was gunned down and killed in Orange Walk Town while he was walking home from an NEBL game between his team, Orange Walk the Running Rebels, and Dangriga Dream Ballers.
Former House Speaker Says Yes To ICJ
The Citizens for the Defence of Sovereignty, which is Assad Shoman's pro ICJ NGO, has recruited a new high profile supporter. He is Former House Speaker Emil Arguelles. According to a release, he "today joined the Citizens for the Defence of Sovereignty and pledged his support to the "yes to the ICJ" campaign."
Arguelles is quoted as saying, "I consider it an honor to become a member of the CDS. I wholeheartedly support submitting the Guatemalan claim for final resolution to the ICJ, because I am convinced that Belize's case is right and just and that we are assured of victory at the ICJ."
Multimillionaire Sir Hakimi Talks Turneffe Threats and Hype
Last week Tuesday we took you to Turneffe Atoll. The Turneff Atoll Trust team wanted the media and the public to get up close and personal to see the beauty and richness of the Atoll and also to see the threats. One such threat comes in the form of large scale/mega developments on the island including Belize Dive Haven. It's owned by a multi-millionaire Canadian- Iranian businessman Sir Karim Hakimi. As we reported, the Trust says that Hakimi did not carry out an EIA before building a hundred room hotel on this fragile ecosystem.
Table Tennis Kids Did Good
Last week, we told you how a contingent of Belizean table tennis athletes headed to Cancun, Mexico to compete in the Central American U-15 and U-18 Table Tennis Championships.
Well they've returned, and they did not not come back empty handed. The Table Tennis Association reports that Belize's Taye Parkinson and Devesh Hukmani came in third in the U-15 Doubles Competition.
They won the bronze medal, but Team Belize didn't get any medals in the other categories. In the team competition, Belize came very close to a second bronze medal, but they were edged out by Costa Rica.
A Long Road From PG
For the average person, riding 70 miles is darn near impossible, especially if you are not trained for it.
But, ready or not, on Saturday officials from the Ministry of the National Security, members of the BDF, Coast Guard and police took to the road on their bicycles for the 2nd annual ride to the border. Vice Commandant of the Coast Guard, Elton Bennett told us more about the ride.
Cpt. Elton Bennett, Vice Commandant, Belize Coast Guard:
"Over the weekend we had a national security ride to the border. It is an initiative by the Ministry of National Security where the security forces, Belize Police Department, BDF, the coast guard spearheaded the activity and we say spear headed because we really want for other personnel outside the ministry to really get involved so it is open for the general public..."
A Belizean Magazine Makes It To One Year
Magazine publishing is in decline worldwide, but one new Belizean glossy has made it to the one-year mark. The fifth instalment of Caribbean Culture and Lifestyle: The Belize Edition was released today and it showcases the wilder side of Belize's tourism offerings, including the Victoria Peak, and the Belize Sea Challenge Kayak race. The magazine is available widely at tourist destinations, or you can see it online. Fine a link to that at 7NEwsbelize.com.
Channel 5
Police Recover Cache of Stolen Firearms and Ammo
There are a lot more guns in the streets of the Old Capital tonight, following a major burglary, described as a breach of national security, at a local firearms dealer. [...]
Compol Williams says That Victor L Bryant’s Gun Dealer License is under Review
As a safety precaution, ComPol Williams also told the media that the police department has taken possession of the remaining stock of firearms and ammunition at Victor L. Bryant and [...]
Police to Inspect Gun Dealers’ Premises to Ensure Compliance
And while the fate of Victor L. Bryant’s license hangs in the balance, today Commissioner Williams warned all gun dealers to ensure that they are complying with the law, in [...]
Dis One Have a Gun, Dat One Have a Gun
While thieves have managed to make off with a cache of weapons from a Belize City gun store, several arrests have been made in respect of other seizures conducted during [...]
Still No Arrests for Murder of Shawn Hemmans
No arrests have been made in the murder of tour guide, Shawn Hemmans. The thirty-three-year-old King’s Park resident was viciously killed earlier this month at a house he frequented on [...]
Well-Known Barbecue Vendor Bart Sanchez is Pepper Sprayed by GSU
Former basketball athlete and popular barbecue vendor, Bart Sanchez is reporting a case of police brutality at the hands of officers attached to the Gang Suppression Unit. Now, Sanchez is [...]
Tutsi Walks off Drug Trafficking Charges
The sensational drug trafficking case involving embattled policeman Darrell “Tutsi” Usher fell apart in the lower court today, ending with an acquittal. In March 2017, the elder son of Gilroy [...]
Concerns Continue to Mount over Margaritaville in Bacalar Chico
The fisheries department is looking into a proposed multimillion-dollar tourism project within a delimited area. As we reported on Monday, Margaritaville, a mega investment by the Jimmy Buffett group, has [...]
An Initiative to Combat Gender-Based Violence in Belize
The U.S. Embassy has teamed up with well-known Belizean entrepreneur, Marie Sharp in an initiative to combat gender-based violence in Belize. This Thursday, a special product Pure Love Pineapple Habanero [...]
Minister Panton Tours Southern Belize
Minister Panton also spoke about a tour she recently concluded in southern Belize in which she met with clients of BELTRAIDE, who applied for incentives from government and to address [...]
Belmopan Residents Complain of Air Pollution
The Department of Environment is in talks with Travellers Liquors Limited to address concerns raised by residents in Belmopan of air pollution. The affected residents live in the Cohune Walk [...]
Sea Level Rise – Why it is Important for Belize to Strengthen its Response
There is no denying that our climate is changing. The primary reason is because humans have increased the burning of oil, coal and gas to produce energy for our homes, [...]
Squatters on Sandbore are Given Notice to Relocate
A group of fishermen, squatting on a small landmass in Belize’s southern waters, has been given notice to remove equipment and other structures that have been erected on Coco Solo [...]
U.S. Embassy Gifts Belize Coast Guard a New Ambulance
This morning in Belize City, an ambulance and medical equipment were donated to the Belize Coast Guard by the United States Embassy. Charge d’ Affaires Keith Gilges handed over an [...]
National Security’s Second Annual Ride to the Border
The second annual Ride to the Border, organized by the Ministry of National Security, was held in the Toledo District over the weekend. While thirty-one cyclists from the Belize Defense [...]
LOVE FM
Let’s go Fly a Kite
Baron Bliss, the benefactor who left a large portion of his wealth for British Honduras, may be long gone but his remains and his memory are well kept at the lighthouse at the entrance to Belize City. The 9th of March is also the weekend of the annual Harbor Regatta which usually has the patronage …
Four Day Training on Climate Change
One of the effects of climate change is the rise in sea level due to rising sea temperatures, melting of glaciers and land-based ice caps. Coastal zone communities will be the ones that will be mostly affected by this. A workshop to look at adapting to the changes was held today. Johanna Pacheco Climate Change …
US State Department Donates Ambulance to CoastGuard
The Belize Coastguard has been growing since it was created to patrol our seas in 2005. The base of the Belize Coast Guard Service at mile 4 on the George Price Highway was built with the assistance from the US southern command. Today the US Embassy donated an ambulance and equipment to further strengthen the …
Belize Police Department Bust Nine Men With Over 13 Stolen Weapons
Victor L. Bryant and Company Limited was proudly established in 1913. But it seems the old school way of doing things is not in line with 21st century methods. The company which sells guns and ammunition, houses its cadre of weapons in a warehouse styled zinc building along the Chetumal Boulevard. The building has a …
Cops Find Guns in Benque
Typically, when the cops find weapons it’s usually in a bushy lot in the Belize District. However, the police department in Cayo also has the skills to find weapons in unlikely places. ACP Joseph Myvett, the Head of the National Crimes Investigation Branch said on Sunday morning the police department found several weapons in Benque. …
Venezuelan Ambassador – Venezuela faces economic war; President seeks peace dialogue
Today thousands of protesters took to the streets in Venezuela in support of opposition leader and leader of the National Assembly, Juan Guaido. The demonstrations come about three weeks after Guaido proclaimed himself interim president of the country after rejecting Nicholas Maduro’s re-election last year. Over the last few days, Guaido has attempted to get …
Guatemalans Charged for AK, Galil rifle and ammunition
After 12:15 a.m. on the ninth of February, the police in Benque searched a black Range Rover with Guatemalan registered plates. The officers found one AK-47 Rifle, one Galil ACE Rifle, 47 rounds of 7.62 calibre ammunition and fourteen 5.56 rounds of ammunition. Assistant Commander of Operations, Marco Vidal says the suspects have been charged. …
The Commish launches investigation into Gun Dealers
The police department is not aware if they have all the weapons as it had not yet received an inventory from Victor L. Bryant. This has opened a can of worms in the gun industry. The commissioner has launched an inquiry into the company as other sellers of weapons to confirm whether or not their …
Amandala
Star basketballer, Dwayne Cummings, 20, murdered
Dwayne Avila Cummings, 20, a star player on the Running Rebels basketball team of Orange Walk Town, was found dead in the San Lorenzo Housing area in Orange Walk Town with a gunshot wound in his head at about 12:30 yesterday morning, less than 4 hours after his team played a hotly contested basketball match at the Multi Complex in Orange Walk on Saturday night.
Incidentally, Cummings did not play in that game, and he left the complex at about 11:15 p.m. after the game and was walking home alone.
“Ankle bracelets” planned for repeat gun offenders
The Ministry of National Security announced today via a press release that it has established an exploratory committee to examine the feasibility of a repeat gun offence law.
“The law would require repeat gun offenders and convicted gang members to wear a tracking device when they are released from prison to enable police to compare those persons’ location to the scene of a crime at the time the crime is committed,” the press release said.
Barriers on the controversial and deadly stretch of Philip Goldson “speedway” to be modified
In response to the public outcry to Government after teacher Marlena Mortis, 23, of Dolphin Avenue, Buttonwood Bay, was knocked down and killed on the Philip Goldson Highway while crossing the dangerous speedway near the DK Super Store to catch a bus to come to Belize City, the Ministry of Works has agreed to insert two pedestrian crossings in the controversial stretch of highway.
The stretch is located between Mile 2 and 3 on the highway between the first roundabout near the Scotia Bank when coming into the city from Ladyville, and the second roundabout, located near the Shell Depot/Mirab Ashley complex, which covers a distance of about 1 mile, with no pedestrian crossing between the two roundabouts.
Court hears mitigation pleas for 3 convicted murderers
Three men who have been convicted in the Supreme Court of Justice Colin Williams for a murder in 2012 were in court this morning for a mitigation hearing as part of their sentencing phase. In addition, the Crown also presented the victims’ impact statements, which were read into the record at today’s hearing.
Justice Williams has adjourned the sentencing hearing to Monday, March 4, when the convicted men —Andy Forbes, 36; Williams Vasquez, 35; and Tyrone Clinton Harris, 32, will learn how much more time will be added to the almost 7 years they have already spent in lockdown for the June 2012 murder of Joseph Meyers, 21.
Special Agreement (Compromis) to be challenged in court
The Special Agreement (compromis) that was signed between Belize and Guatemala at the urging of the Secretary General of the Organization of American States in December 2008 to settle the Guatemalan claim to Belizean territory at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), will soon face a legal challenge in the Supreme Court, which will be asked to rule on its constitutionality, attorney Dickie Bradley confirmed to Amandala today.
Amandala asked Bradley to explain what is at play in terms of the legal challenge that will be launched against the Special Agreement, which was turned into a treaty with Guatemala when it was ratified by the Belize Senate in November 2016.
PSU objects to contract officer Paulette Elrington’s study leave
In mid-January, Amandala published a story captioned: “Paulette Elrington is not an ‘ordinary’ contract officer.” The story was based on a leaked government memorandum that was sent from the Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to the Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of the Public Service, and was copied to the Financial Secretary, Ministry of Finance, seeking advice on a request made by Paulette Elrington, a daughter of Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wilfred Elrington, who has been employed as a Foreign Service Officer at the Permanent Mission of Belize to the United Nations since 2008, when the UDP was returned to power.
NEBL scores, highlights and upcoming schedule; O.W. Rebels game postponed
According to the box scores released by the NEBL after an exciting weekend that saw two games on Friday night and one on Saturday night, young Orange Walk guard Dwayne Cummings did not see any action in their game lost to Griga Dream Ballers on Saturday night. It is not yet clear if Dwayne was on the team bench, but the box scores show (DNP), meaning he did not play in the game. The shocking news of his killing later that night after the game had ended put a damper on the high spirits that the sporting community was enjoying following 3 exciting weekend games.
Week 5 and no “separation” yet in the race to PLB playoffs
Week 5 has been completed in the 14-week Premier League of Belize (PLB) 2018-2019 Closing Season regular season, and all 8 teams are still very much in the race for the Top-4 playoff spots. (See standings below.) As importantly, defending champion Bandits Sport and sub-champion Verdes FC are locked in a neck and neck race with CONCACAF implications. Tied for the regular season lead with 33 points each in the Opening Season, Verdes presently enjoys a 1 point lead, 10 to 9, over the Bandits in the Closing Season, with 9 games to go.
Week 2 results & standings in Women’s Football League
Two games were played on Saturday, February 9, and 4 on Sunday, February 10, in Week 2 of the National Amateur Women’s League (NAWL) 2018-2019 Closing Season.
On Saturday at the M.A. Stadium in Independence, it was 1-1 between Rumberas and Altitude. Pauline Linarez (27’) put Altitude in front, but Quiniah Caliz (35’) equalized for Rumberas. Meanwhile at the Carl Ramos Stadium in Dangriga, Belmopan’s Jewel Fury shut out Dangriga Pumas, 5-0, with goals from Jayda Brown (6’ & 88’), Suswani Martinez (54’ & 80’) and Fatima Romero (54’).
Editorial: The PUDP and the ICJ matter
What Belize enjoys of parliamentary democracy is built on the organizational foundations of our two major political parties – the ruling United Democratic Party (UDP) and the Opposition People’s United Party (PUP).
It has been said that Belize’s parliamentary democracy has been seriously compromised by both the PUP and the UDP ever since Belize’s present Ministerial system was introduced in 1961, three years before self-government in 1964 and twenty years before independence in 1981. All governments formed by the PUDP since 1961 have appointed a majority of their elected area representatives to be Cabinet Ministers, so that all decisions which come out of Cabinet automatically become the law in the House of Representatives without the possibility of government backbenchers teaming up with Opposition area representatives to defeat a Cabinet bill. Belize’s parliamentary democracy is therefore flawed; it is compromised.
From The Publisher
Well, you saw last week how the academic establishment (media?) In Belize treated the fiftieth anniversary of the founding of UBAD in February of 1969. They treated it as if it never happened. Of course, no one was surprised by Belizean academia’s perspective on this matter.
To the south of us in Venezuela, a dangerous drama is being played out which is frightening for conscious people worldwide. Pope Francis has recently warned of a possible bloodbath in Venezuela. The United States of America, planet earth’s superpower, has warned that it is not leaving a military option off the table. Washington, in other words, is threatening to invade Venezuela, where the military has continued to remain loyal to President Nicolas Maduro, successor to the charismatic Hugo Chavez.
For our leaders, we need people with wisdom
Dear Editor,
The entrance to Belize City between the Brodies and Mirab roundabouts should not be a freeway style of road. This is a business district, with residential areas at the sides. The planners of that piece of thoroughfare are out of touch with the realities of that area.
Many complaints and ideas have been aired about this, but no one who could do something about it seemed to care; now a young person is dead and the blame lands squarely at GOB’s feet.
I wasn’t involved, says Lois Young, Head of Belize’s Mission to the United Nations
Dear Editor,
I would like to set the record straight regarding the Public Service Union (PSU) press release of February 6, 2019, “PSU condemns request by Paulette Elrington,” seeking to involve me as Head of Belize’s Mission to the United Nations in a request made to the Financial Secretary (or to whomever) on behalf of Ms. Paulette Elrington.
For the record, I had no knowledge or involvement in any way, shape or form with anything written by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on behalf of the contract officer in question.
Slaying our wings
Dear Editor,
What triumphs lie ahead for our country when our wings are being slayed before even wearing a graduation gown and holding a degree in our hands? Belize, often referred to as “Our Jewel”, is losing shine and radiance because of the blood of senseless murders across the country.
Most of our parents have arduously worked themselves in a country where jobs are limited, only to see our youths being forsaken one by one. We often dream of striving for success to repay all their unconditional love and sacrifice, but instead, it seems we are repaying them with heartaches and shedding of tears.
They don’t want pedestrians to cross the road
What is getting very obvious is that people who believe they are the brains of Belize have absolutely no fear about carrying out their intentions. Well, we shouldn’t hold back in telling these people that not all brains should have come back to Belize, that a lot of them should have been drained to foreign.
There are some people who are so highly trained it is a waste of the world’s resources for them to be here. They won’t find the tools or the finances here to do the job they were trained to do. It is best for these brains to stay abroad and earn big money and remember us with the remittances. They will grow to retirement age, if they escape, and they can then come home to retire. These people have so many skills, even the with the age erosion they still have a lot to give.
Thanks to Lindsay Belisle
Like myself, I believe that there ought to be many who are thankful to Mr. Lindsay Belisle, former Boundary Commissioner of Belize, for enlightening us through his essay that was published in the Amandala on Friday, January 25, 2019 on the front page under the heading “Cabinet says Yes, Lindsay says No!” His explanation on the 17Ú 49’ was crystal clear, which shows us the danger in what the Belizean diplomats had done by signing such a compromis in 2008 with Guatemala.
I thank Mr. Belisle for sharing with me the following map which he has already presented to the public.
Louis Marroquin, 24, denied bail at Supreme Court
Peruvian national Louis Marroquin, 24, one of three foreigners who were remanded to prison on a charge of preparation for a crime, broke down in tears today when Justice Herbert Lord denied him bail.
In his ruling, Justice Lord said that if a preliminary inquiry is not held by March 31, he would be mindful to grant Marroquin bail.
Marroquin’s attorney, Dickie Bradley, submitted that bail is a right and not a privilege, and that based on the facts of the case, a prima facie case had not been established against his client.
Victor Bryant company burglarized
The Victor L. Bryant company building located on the Lake Independence Boulevard (from the Chetumal Street bridge to the George Price Highway), was burglarized sometime on Thursday night and the break-in was discovered Friday morning.
On our visit to the company this afternoon, we were told that when the company’s employees went to work on Friday morning, they found that the building had been broken into.
Trio remanded for attempted murder
Three persons were charged with attempted murder when they appeared today before Senior Magistrate Tricia Pitts Anderson. They are Fitzroy Myles, 19; Enrique Bermudez, 21; and Alden Lara, 19. They were also charged with dangerous harm and Lara alone was charged with use of deadly means of harm for the shooting of Keshawn Dennison, which occurred on February 5 on Antelope Street Extension. Dennison was shot in both legs.
Air pollution in Belmopan caused by “multiple industries,” says DOE
Today, the Department of the Environment (DOE) issued a press release informing the public of a malodor that is present within and near the northwestern area of Belmopan. This would be in the Cohune Walk area up to the Agricultural Showgrounds.
When we spoke to Anthony Mai, Environmental Officer at DOE, he told us that this has been an issue for some time and residents have complained of the smell. The release identified the cause of the malodor as “multiple industries which generate effluent (wastewater) [that] are within close proximity to each other.”
The Reporter
Jermaine Belgrave In Pennsylvania hospital After Drug-deal Shootout
Former Taylor’s Alley resident Jermaine Belgrave, acquitted of murder in Belize in 2015, is in an Erie, Pennsylvania hospital after he was shot in the chest Thursday evening.
Stolen Guns & Ammo Recovered By Police
The Commissioner of Police has called a press briefing scheduled for 2:00pm in Belmopan to speak about the burglary at the warehouse of Victor L. Bryant, and the recovery of firearms and ammunition stolen.
Breaking Belize News
The Height of Belizean Adventure” by Belize Audubon Society
“There is magnetism in wild places. And it calls to us on a spiritual level. Connect to a higher […]
Former House speaker says ‘Yes’ to the ICJ
Citizens for Defence of Sovereignty, a ‘Yes’ to the ICJ advocacy group issued a release today […]
Lobster Fishing Season closes on Friday
The Fisheries Department today informed that the lobster season will be closed on February 15th and […]
Two Belize City businesses burglarized
Two businesses in Belize City were burglarized on the same day, leaving the residents of the […]
Belize-born software pioneer shares inspiration with US students
A Belizean-born software engineer is using his story to encourage students at a school in Connecticut, […]
Police seeking four persons in Yanai murder investigation
Police have released the person they had detained since the start of the Masaki Yanai murder […]
Basketball community mourns loss of Dwayne Cummings
As public condemnation mounts for the tragic killing of popular athlete Dwayne Cummings, The National Elite […]
Police recover huge amount of stolen firearms
Authorities have recovered a significant amount of stolen firearms and ammunition. The weapons were stolen from […]
Enough is enough!
By The National Student Union of Belize: We take this opportunity to express our heartfelt sympathies to the families and friends of Dwayne Cummings, an […]
Ministry of Agriculture says it cannot police borders for contraband potato
The Ministry of Agriculture informs the public that to coordinate the start of local harvesting and […]
Eamon Courtenay calls out GOB for using his image in ‘Yes’ to ICJ campaign
Attorney and former Foreign Affairs Minister, Eamon Courtenay, issued a statement this morning calling on the […]
Parades, Dancing and Colored Paints: This is how we celebrate!
Keeping the tradition alive, plans for the El Gran Carnaval de San Pedro are already underway! The usual celebration to usher in the Lenten Season has been extended to five days of cultural fun, music and dance.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 2nd for the start of the festivities with the first ever Carnaval Parade. Starting at 5PM, colorfully decorated floats with a trail of dancers will parade down town core as they make their way to Central Park for the Annual Carnaval Fiesta. “What to expect at the fiesta?” – Delicious local food, ice cold drinks and cocktails and the best live entertainment in town!
International Sources
Ecological Niche Modeling of Three Species of Stenella Dolphins in the Caribbean Basin, With Application to the Seaflower Biosphere Reserve
Dolphins of the genus Stenella occur in pelagic waters of both tropical and warm-temperate oceans. Three species, the Atlantic spotted dolphin (Stenella frontalis), the pantropical spotted dolphin (S. attenuata), and the spinner dolphin (S. longirostris) are abundant worldwide, but in the Caribbean Basin they have been poorly studied and information on their distribution patterns is scarce. Specifically, in Colombia’s remote Seaflower Biosphere Reserve (SFBR) S. attenuata has been reported occasionally, but S. frontalis and S. longirostris have never been recorded before. To address this information gap, an ecological niche modeling approach was used to determine the potential distribution patterns of these three dolphin species in the region. Records of these species for the Caribbean Basin were compiled, including both published and unpublished data.
Belize Examining Repeat Gun Offence Law
The Belize government says it is exploring the feasibility of a repeat gun offence law that would require repeat gun offenders and convicted gang members to wear a tracking device when they are released from prison.
In a statement, the Minister of National Security said it had established an Exploratory Committee for Repeat Gun Offence Law.
It includes an information technology specialist and a citizen security expert.
Belize victory would put Guyana on football map
Head coach of the Golden Jaguars (Guyana’s national senior football team) Michael Johnson yesterday stopped just short of guaranteeing a win against Belize next month but stressed yesterday the importance of the upcoming fixture.
According to Johnson, the match, scheduled for March 23 at the Providence National Stadium, comes at a significant juncture in the nation’s footballing aspirations.
Videos
Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. Keith Gilges is handing over an ambulance and technical equipment to the Belize Coast Guard, 4min. We are so proud of our partnership with the BCG!
US position on their diplomatic relations with Venezuela, 45min. U.S. Charge d' Affaires, Keith Gilges, took the opportunity to present the US position on their diplomatic relations with Venezuela. He explained that the international community is acting in the best interest of the Venezuelan people who are facing grave human rights injustices. He shared their concerns and explained their policy position on the sanctions imposed.
Elections and Boundaries Department - appeal for residents to register, 29min. Elections and Boundaries Department continues to make the appeal for residents to register to vote in the upcoming referendum. To date 50% of registered voters have come in to re-register accounting for over 130,000 applications. The team says they are doubling their efforts to get the remaining voters in before the March 10th deadline. Our guests shared the details of how they are working to facilitate this process. Their offices are now open during the lunch period to accommodate your schedule. On our couch:
Brendalyn Staine - Registering Officer, Elections and Boundaries Department.
Rosalba Chan - Registering Officer, Elections and Boundaries Department.
World Epilepsy Day - Statistics show that 1 out of 100 persons suffer from this condition in Belize, 36min. World Epilepsy Day is celebrated on the second Monday in February. Statistics show that 1 out of 100 persons suffer from this condition in Belize.
Belizeans visited Havana Cuba - art, history, culture, community activism and solidarity, 46min. Yasser Musa and a group of Belizeans visited Havana to engage in a series of actions involving art, history, culture, community activism and solidarity. The concept is to use creativity as an vehicle to foster and facilitate a deeper understanding of people. He was our guest to reflect on the experience and talked with us about the 10 solidarity actions that will be taken this year to enrich the relationship between Belize and Cuba.
The Belize Bus Association - Update, 48min. The Belize Bus Association is reviving the association to address the transportation issues faced by commuters nationwide. They explained that they support the efforts of the Ministry of Transport to raise the standards of the industry but feel the national plan is void of incentives that would support the upgrades outlined. On our couch:
Andy Shaw - President, BBA.
Ewart Metzgen - Secretary, BBA.
Daren Stuart - Board Member, BBA.
Venezuelan Ambassador to Belize -Update on people are suffering from the sanctions imposed, 54min. Venezuelan Ambassador to Belize, Gerardo Antonio Argote, opened our show with a conversation about the current unrest in his country and the diplomatic relationship with the US. He shared the official position on the crisis and explained that the Venezuelan people are suffering from the sanctions imposed. He believe the sanction are politically motivated by interest in the country's oil and gold.
Statistical Institute of Belize - 2018 Update, 44min. According to the Statistical Institute of Belize we imported $1.9 billion dollars worth of goods and services in comparison to $398 million in exports. Representatives of SIB were our guests to talk about the consumer price index and what it reveals about our economy. On our couch:
Tiffany Vasquez – Statistician II, Economic Statistics Department.
Jefte Ochaeta – Statistician I, Economic Statistics Department.
Abil Castańeda – Chief Tourism Officer, Ministry of Tourism.
Grace - Flava With A Beat - Chocolate Waffles and Fry Jack recipe, 20min. GRACE Flava With A Beat returned with a Chocolate Waffles and Fry Jack recipe. The folks at Grace are hosting a recipe competition. Submit your original recipes and get a chance to win $100 dinner at the restaurant of your choice. The recipe must include selected Grace products. On set:
Duane Lizama - Resident Chef.
Alex Gordon - Brand Assistant, Grace Kennedy Belize Ltd.
SMART Belize has some great deals just in time for Valentine's Day, 30min. SMART Belize has some great deals just in time for Valentine's Day. They talked with us about the phone packages available. They are also launching a few new services including the new Gimme Dalla Portal and AIDA - the customer service chatbot assistant. On set:
Adelaide Sabido - Public Relations & Marketing Representative, SMART Belize.
Justin Kuylen - Marketing Officer, SMART Belize.
Ramada Belize City Princess Hotel & Casino offering Valentine Specials, 12min. Ramada Belize City Princess Hotel & Casino is also offering Valentine Specials. Selena Urias, Sales Executive, walked us through the offers available for couples.
Channel 5 Obituaries - Nesslie Eleanor Young nee Meighan, 1min.
Channel 5 Obituaries - Harrison Alexander Smith, 2.5min.
Intro to Fuckry Talkshow, 2hr.
10-4-19, 60min. On tonight's edition of 10-4-19, our panelists explore the burning questions that still linger for many Belizeans.
We also have our first edition of Backyard Chats - where we talk to Belizeans right in their backyards, to find out their thoughts leading up to the referendum.
Maya Day at Blue Creek Belize 2018, 3min. Music from the excellent album Junk DNA by Ian James Stewart. Available from your normal stockist.
At the tiny village of Mafredi, about 5.5 miles from San Pedro Columbia, a branch road heads South and West to Blue Creek, a small place of under 500 population. The main attraction here is the village's namesake stream - a beautiful stretch of water that emerges from magnificent rainforest to flow through the heart of the village.
Here, 'Maya Day' is celebrated in March. It started in 2004 at the local school to promote local culture and the celebration is growing. They do not advertise to anyone besides other Maya communities, though anyone is welcome.
Belize River boat ride, 1min. Boat ride along the Belize River to the Lamani Ruins.
February 12, 2019
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Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report. Specials and Events
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials
The San Pedro Sun
Rotary Club of Ambergris donates suction pump to Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II
A new suction pump was donated to the Dr. Otto Rodgriquez San Pedro Polyclinic II on Thursday, February 7th by the Rotary Club of Ambergris Caye. Administrator Eric Najarro was on hand to receive the equipment from Rotarian Diane Tabony. The Polyclinic had been operating without the much-needed equipment for weeks after their pump stopped functioning.
The island’s Rotary Club was made aware of the situation, and members were happy to assist the medical center in acquiring this important medical tool. Tabony currently takes care of all projects regarding the Polyclinic, along with Rotarian Pete Davis.
Ambergris Today
The DFC & The Belize Biltmore Plaza Partner On A Solar Water Heating Demonstration Project
In line with the Development Finance Corporation’s (DFC) continued efforts to promote business adoption of renewable energy and energy efficient technologies, the DFC partnered with the Belize Biltmore Plaza by way of grant funding for the installation of a Chromagen 160 gallon on-demand solar water heating system. This system will partially supply the hot water needs for the hotel’s laundry service.
SP Junior College Hosts Tertiary Level Education Conference
Over the weekend San Pedro Junior College hosted the Winter Conference 2019 of COBEC, The Consortium for Belize Educational Cooperation. Keynote speaker at the opening of the conference was Angel Nunez, President of San Pedro Junior College and the keynote speaker representing Belize Tourism Board and Hon. Manuel Heredia was Mr. Yashin Dujon. The conference is all about cooperation among the institution and focuses on how to bring better and more affordable tertiary level education to the young people of the region.
Misc Belizean Sources
Air Pollution in Belmopan
The Department of the Environment (DOE) hereby informs the public within and near the north-western area of the City of Belmopan of ongoing work to address the malodor affecting the quality of air and daily lives of residents and community members.
Multiple industries which generate effluent (wastewater) are within close proximity to each other and the types of effluent that are generated require different treatment approaches to mitigate negative environmental, human health and other impacts. Please note that the DOE, along with the Public Health Department, has been working on the issue with the key industries in the area and had previously met with management personnel of each industry and recommended short-term and medium-term solutions to this problem.
Training in Coastal Zone, Sea Level Rise and Related Processes
In an effort to improve Belize’s technical capacity and preparedness in Climate Change, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment, Sustainable Development and Immigration, through the “Fourth National Communication and First Biennial Update Report Project” being implemented by the National Climate Change Office (NCCO), is carrying out a national training entitled “Coastal Zone, Sea Level Rise, and Related Processes”. The training will take place from February 11th to 14th, 2019 at the Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute’s Conference Room in Belize City.
The purpose of the workshop is to build the capacity of national technical experts on how to use statistical data, measurements and modelling methods to assess sea level variations and sea level rise influence on coastal ecosystems.
A beautiful picture from Maya Masewal elders of Patchakan village in Corozal taken this saturday
The Maya elders of Patchakan proudly continue speaking their native Yucatec Maya language and following their traditions .
The Maya elders of Patchakan are recognized by To'one Masehualoon NGO and the community for preserving the Maya culture in northern Belize.
CHINESE COMMUNITY IN COROZAL CELEBRATE NEW YEAR
Carnaval Photographic Exhibition
Join us for the opening of the "Gran Carnaval de San Pedro" Photographic Exhibition by Karen Brodie at the San Pedro House of Culture, on Friday, March 1st at 7:00 pm
Appointment of New Labour Commissioner
The Ministry of Labour, Local Government and Rural Development is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Ann Marie Thompson as Labour Commissioner, with effect February 15, 2019, at the Ministry of Labour, Local Government and Rural Development, Belmopan Office.
Minister of National Security Establishes Exploratory Committee for Repeat Gun Offence Law
The Minister of National Security today established an exploratory committee to examine the feasibility of a repeat gun offence law.
The law would require repeat gun offenders and convicted gang members to wear a tracking device when they are released from prison to enable police to compare those persons’ location to the scene of a crime at the time the crime is committed.
A similar pilot project has been launched for knife crime offenders in London, England where there has been an upsurge in violent crimes recently.
Second Annual “Ride to the Border”
The Ministry of National Security’s second annual Ride to the Border took place in the Toledo District on Saturday, February 9, 2019.
The ride is an event that the Ministry initiated in December 2016 in order to increase the awareness of the public on the mission and tasks of the Belize Defence Force (BDF) in the Southern Area of Responsibility. The ride to the border is also taken as an opportunity to build comradery and team spirit amongst members of the Belize Defence Force, Belize Coast Guard (BCG), and the Police Department and to promote friendly interaction with the communities in that area.
BELIZE FISHING REPORT: February 3, 2019 THROUGH February 10, 2019
A cold front bringing clouds and winds early in the week made sight casting more difficult than the previous weeks. It was our pleasure to host the first Orvis Bonefish Bonanza of the year. Bonefish were caught in shallow water when conditions were good for sight casting, and the deeper bite in 2-4 feet of water kept the action going when it was cloudy or windy.
21 page long article is published in the International Journal of the Bromeliad Society
We are glad to help to tell the world about amazing flora of Belize: 21 page long article is published in the International Journal of the Bromeliad Society. It is written by our collaborator from Selby Gardens, Bruce Holst, director of Botany and gives a great overview of the last 4 years of the exploration of the Belizean epiphytes. We continue working on putting together all the data collected and making all the results and field guides publicly available.
Thank you, all of you who helped in the exploration!
Channel 7
Student Athlete Murdered In OW
Our headline story on Friday was about the murder of a promising 19 year old university student in Belize City, and tonight's headline is about the killing of another promising young man - this one a 20 year old student - athlete in Orange Walk Town.
He's Dwayne Cummings-Avila, well-known and well-loved in Orange Walk as a rising basketball star for the hometown semi pro team, the Orange Walk Running Rebels. Just after midnight on Saturday, after the Rebels lost, he was walking home when someone shot him once to the head.
Cops Still Searching For Yanai's Killer
And while police have deployed extra units to help solve that murder - they are doing the same for the murder of Masaki Yanai, the 19 year old Japanese student who was killed in Belize City on Thursday night. The teenager was defending his father, Takayuki from an armed robber. Both of them were shot: Masaki died and police today told us Takayuki is. stable. The cops have been reviewing surveillance footage from the Buttonwood Bay residential area where the murder occurred.
ASP Alejandro Cowo, O.C., C.I.B., Belize City:
"Reference that murder investigation, police have been in the Buttonwood Bay area since the incident happened where several surveillance cameras have been viewed and up to now, there was only one person that was detained. He was interviewed and he had to be released because of no direct evidence of his involvement in this murder."
Japanese Media Descends on Belize Following Murder Story
The story of the Japanese teenager's murder is drawing intense interest in Japan - and today at the police press briefing - it was a very full house as Fuji TV Network and Nippon Television Network sent their correspondents from New York and Los Angeles, respectively, to cover the story. A number of other Japanese media outlets have contacted us for footage and information - as the story is making major news in that country.
The Yanai family came to Belize about 15 years ago as volunteers, and then transitioned into the restaurant business. A few years ago, the father, Takayaki Yanai - who was a successful chef in Japan opened one the first Japanese restaurants in Belize.
Benque Bad-Man Busted With Major Firepower
Moving unto other news now, police busted two Belizeans and a Guatemalan in Benque Viejo early on Sunday morning. They were in a fancy ride with Guatemalan plates loaded with some very big guns.
The head of National Crimes Investigation told us more:..
ACP Joseph Myvette - Head, NCIB:
"On Sunday morning, sometime around 12:15 a.m., a report was made to Benque Viejo by telephone that some male persons in a vehicle were causing disturbance at a night club in Benque Viejo Town. As a result, police visited the nightclub where they encountered a black Range Rover with Guatemalan registration plates where a search was conducted on this vehicle which resulted in the discovery of an AK-47 rifle and one 5.56 mini Galil weapon. Also found were forty-seven rounds of 7.62 ammunition and fourteen 5.56 rounds of ammunition..."
Firepower Down By the River
And also in Benque on Sunday morning - police found a stash of weapons on the banks of the Mopan River. Here's more about the find:..
ACP Joseph Myvett:
"Benque Viejo police again, yesterday morning sometime around 8:45 a.m., responding to information, conducted a search just outside a property along the riverside where in a black plastic bag they discovered a Winchester brand pump twelve shotgun along with four cartridges. And they also discovered a Bersa brand nine millimeter pistol with three magazines and four rounds of ammunition as well."
Contraband Crushed
Last week we told you about the big contraband bust police made up north in San Victor Village. Well, it was all destroyed this weekend.
The cops found an abandoned house where contraband-ists had stashed 238 cases of beer, 10 cases of Cana Real rum, and 11 cases of those large coca-colas.
That and a whole lot more was destroyed on Saturday. All told it was a total of over two thousands cases, and over four thousands bottles and cans of various beverages.
The Future of Lawn Enforcement is Ankle Monitors?
Imagine a Belize where repeat offenders have to wear those tracking devices, or ankle monitors…the news tonight is that it could happen.
A government release says that "the Minister of National Security today established an exploratory committee to examine the feasibility of a repeat gun offence law."
This law would make it so that repeat gun offenders and convicted gang members would have to wear a tracking device when they are released from prison.
Another Night of Mayhem in Mayflower
Police had another shootout with residents of Mayflower Street last night. The cops say it happened after a burglary at a nearby supermarket:..
ASP Alejandro Cowo- OC CIB:
"Just after 10 pm the building of William's Supermarket was being burglarized and police responded to the scene and upon reaching they observed several persons coming out of the building with several items. As a result, police went to apprehend them and that is where the exchange of gunfire began between the suspects and the police, which escalated in other shootings happening in the other immediate area. After the scene was processed, police were looking for this person suspected to be involved."
Police Recovered 13 Guns
One new feature of the press briefings under Commissioner Chester Williams is that the Commander of Operations also gives the press a quick briefing about the success of recent operations. Today, Senior Superintendent Vidal spoke about 13 gun seizures in a week - more than half of them in Belize City - which led us to ask a provocative question:..
Sr. Supt. Marco Vidal:
"However, a break down shows that eight of these firearms were seized in Belize City, comprising of three 9mm pistols, two .380 pistols, two .38 revolvers, one .223 rifle. Three persons were arrested and charged for kept unlicensed firearm and four of these firearms were deposited as found property in Belize City."
Pugh's 5.5 Pounds of Pot
And intelligence is also what may have led police to the Orange Walk Town home of Darren Pugh on Saturday morning.
Police told us that they found five and a half pounds of weed:..
ACP Joseph Myvett:
"On Saturday, as well, sometime around 9:45 a.m., Orange Walk police, acting upon information, visited the home of one Darren Pugh on Riverside Street in Orange Walk Town where they conducted a search..."
Another Southern Hwy Fatal
And, another man was killed this weekend in a fatal traffic accident - and it happened on the Southern Highway - the second in a few days.
Police say the victim was sitting on the road:..
ACP Joseph Myvett:
"One Lorenzo Mejia was traveling from San Juan Village towards Dangriga Town and whilst between miles thirty-six and thirty-seven he was temporarily blinded by the lights of an oncoming vehicle and eventually ran over the deceased and his bicycle and the deceased was later learned to be Alvin Abad Paz, other particulars are unknown at this point in time. What the police gathered also is that Mr. Paz seemingly was sitting on the road, as they learned this information from persons who had passed the area before. Mejia was detained whilst the investigation was ongoing and he was later released after he was served with a notice of intended prosecution."
Fisheries and The Seas
A 4 day climate change training began today at the Coastal Zone Management training room. 20 personnel from Fisheries, Forestry, the Climate Change office among other stakeholders are participating in the workshop entitled "Coastal Zone, Sea level rise and related processes." The climate change department team up with a Cuban consultant to facilitate the training. We stopped by to find out why this training is important.
The training concludes on Thursday the 14th.
Alleged Shooters Charged One Month Later
About a month ago, we told you about shooting on Antelope Street Extension in Belize City which left 35 year-old Anthony Crawford hospitalized with a gunshot wound to the chest. Well, police have arrested and charged 3 men who they believe were his attackers.
They are 19 year-old Fitzroy Myles, 21 year-old Enrique Bermudez, and 19 year-old Alden Lara. All 3 men were charged with attempted murder, dangerous harm, and use of deadly means of harm. Lara was separately charged with another count of use of deadly means of harm for a separate shooting incident in which Keshawn Dennison was injured on February 5. Due to the nature of the offenses, Senior Magistrate Tricia Pitts-Anderson remanded them to the Belize Central Prison until April 11th, 2019.
Ambassador: What Crisis In Venezuela?
The political crisis in Venezuela seems to deepen daily. As we have reported opposition leader, Juan Guaido - backed by the US and the European Union has declared himself President. He is pushing for the overthrow of President Nicholas Maduro.
While the US is pushing for regime change, Belize - which has a long history of friendly relations with Venezuela - has consistently advocated for a more moderate approach and this country has remained neutral.
Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington went to Uruguay last week along with CARICOM leaders to advance an approach based on dialogue.
DPP Is President of the Bar, Again
The Bar Association of Belize has a new Executive.
The Bar held elections on Friday at their Annual General Meeting, and after the votes were counted, DPP Cheryl-Lynn Vidal was re-elected to the post of President. Leslie Mendez will serve as Vice President, and Jose Alpuche returns once more to serve at Treasurer. Shandi Chell has been selected as secretary, and Randall Sheppard, Gavin Courtenay and William Lindo will all serve as Bar Committee members.
New Labour Commish Named
In July of last year, we told you about the Labour Commissioner, Ivan Williams, who was stepping down to pursue a career as a UDP politician. Well, the Ministry of Labour is reporting tonight that they've officially selected his replacement.
The new Labour Commissioner is Ann Marie Thompson, and her appointment takes effect on February 15th.
Chinese Celebrated New Year In Streets
By now everyone has pretty much settled into 2019; the "Happy New Year greetings" are dwindling and it is back to the grind.
But not for the Chinese, they celebrated their New Year's this weekend. So it was like Christmas in February for the local Chinese community and for Belizeans who participated in the festivities. The celebrations began on Saturday morning with a parade and a performance of the traditional Lion Dance on Albert Street. Then on Sunday, there was the big banquet. Edmond Quan, the Honorary Chairman of the Belize Chinese Association told us more about this special observance.
Medical Partners Making A Difference
A team of doctors from Partners for Medical Relief are in Belize offering a wide range of surgeries. Today the Ministry of Health along with the team held a special ceremony to commemorate 15 years that the medical mission has been partnering with Belize. Here are few snippets from the ceremony.
Channel 5
Young Basketball Player Executed in Orange Walk
The Orange Walk community is reeling from the murder of twenty-year-old Dwayne Avila-Cummings. The young UB student and promising basketball player was executed in the wee hours of Sunday. He [...]
The Star Athlete: Dwayne Cummings
Dwayne Cummings is the second UB student to be murdered in less than five days. He was a business student at the University of Belize. A statement from UB’s President [...]
The Senseless Murder of Dwayne Cummings
Area Representative for Orange Walk East and Minister of State Responsible for National Security, Elodio Aragon Jr., says that he was angered to see a positive and promising star murdered [...]
You Can Help Police to Solve Cummings’ Murder
According to reports, residents of the area where Cummings’ body was found say that they saw a suspicious vehicle in the area after gunshots were heard. Minister Aragon is appealing [...]
Police Say Four Persons Were Involved in Yanai Robbery/Murder
The Belize Police Department is leaving no stones unturned in an effort to solve the murder of nineteen-year-old Masaki Yanai. The UB architecture student and his father, restaurateur Takayuki Yanai [...]
A Man Seated on the Edge of the Southern Highway is Ran Over and Killed
A fatal road traffic accident claimed the life of a man who was ran over on the Southern Highway in the early hours of Sunday morning. Alvin Abad Paz was [...]
West Street Man is Shot Over the Weekend
Victor Martinez, a resident of West Canal, is lucky to have escaped serious injury over the weekend when he was attacked by a lone gunman as he was entering his [...]
Mayhem on Mayflower During Attempted Burglary of Williams Supermarket
There was an exchange of gunfire between officers responding to the scene of a burglary and thieves fleeing from the Mayflower Street area on Sunday night. Residents report hearing a [...]
Darren Pugh is Busted with Sugar City Weed
Twenty-six-year-old Darren Pugh was busted over the weekend in his hometown of Orange Walk with a serious stash of marijuana hidden at his residence. According to police, a joint intelligence [...]
Benque Police Bust Belizeans and Guatemalan with Big Guns
What are two high-powered assault rifles and a cache of ammunition doing on the Benque side of the Belize/Guatemala border? A pair of Belizeans and a Guatemalan national were found [...]
Guns and Ammunition Found Near Macal River, Benque
There were two other firearms taken off the streets of Benque Viejo on Sunday morning when police carried out a search near the bank of the Mopan River. A comb [...]
A Proposed Margaritaville Resort in the Middle of Bacalar Chico Marine Reserve
There is a new tourism development project on Ambergris Caye to be constructed within a marine reserve. Last week, Margaritaville Holdings, a global lifestyle brand announced its mega multimillion-dollar project on [...]
Exchange Missions between Belize and Taiwan
Today, a cheque of sixty thousand dollars was handed over to the government of Belize from the Republic of China (Taiwan) to facilitate one of two exchange investment missions between [...]
Creating a Link between Investment Opportunities in Belize and Taiwanese Investors
Today marks exactly three months since Ambassador Remus Li-Kuo Chen officially took up mission in Belize. He says that the initiative is linking potential Taiwanese investors with Belizean businesses. And [...]
Will Potential Taiwanese Investors Be Legit?
Back to back and in recent times, shocking Ponzi schemes and investment scandals were exposed in multimillion dollar projects in Belize. From a cursory view, the projects seemed legit, but [...]
Peace Project is Piloted at Ephesus SDA Primary School
The Heavenly Culture World Peace Restoration of Light (HWPL) which is based in Washington D.C. is in Belize for a week of peace building activities to commemorate Peace Education Week. [...]
4-Day Sea Level Rise Training Opens in Belize City
A four-day national training in coastal zone and sea level rise opened today in Belize City. The workshop aims to improve Belize’s technical capacity and preparedness in climate change. The [...]
The Weekend in Sports
Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday. [Highlights of the weekend in sports...]
Late night vehicle fire
Footage sent to News Five shows a vehicle on fire. The video was taken at 9:02 tonight near mile twenty six and a half on the George Price Highway. No one was seen in the area when the video was taken.
LOVE FM
Victim struggled with gunman and received minor injury
A Belize City resident was lucky that an incident on Saturday proved to be minor because his assailant struggled with him when the shot was fired. Victor Martinez was about to enter his yard when a gunman missed his torso and caught him on the hand. ASP Alejandro Cowo: “Just after 1 pm Belize City …
Well known to Police: Darren Pugh Raided by the Cops
Orange Walk Resident Darren Pugh is what we commonly call “known to the police.” In 2015, he was detained for questioning alongside the late Orange Walk Gang boss Junior Triminio following a murder incident. He was never charged but the department continued to keep tabs on Pugh. The officer in charge of the National Crimes …
Cops say shooters visited Yanaai residence before attack
The brutal attack on the Yanaai family has caught the attention of US media. Two media crews from the USA that specialize in Japanese news came to Belize to get a briefing from the police and report on the attack on the Japanese father and son. The officer in charge of CIB for Belize City, …
Dwayne Cummings – a promising young athlete murdered
The death of Dwayne Cummings has shaken the residents of Orange Walk especially the sporting community. He has been playing basketball since he was ten years old or younger and has been fully supported by his family, especially his mother, Delsia Cummings. He was preparing with the Orange Walk Running Rebels elite team for this …
A community mourns Dwayne Cummings
In just seventy-eight hours, Belize lost two promising young minds to gun violence. The most recent occurred on Saturday night just before twelve thirty with the shooting death of 20-year-old, Dwayne Avila-Cummings. The pains of Cummings death were expressed throughout the weekend, particularly on social media, as parents, schoolmates and teachers posted on the tragic …
Belize Chinese Association Celebrates Chinese New Year
The Belize Chinese Association (BCA) held celebrations on Saturday and Sunday across the country. Firecrackers and cultural celebrations took place in city streets in a show of culture and diversity. Outgoing chairman of the BCA, Edmund Kwan told Love News about how the Year of the Pig was celebrated at the Princess on Sunday. Edmund …
Johnston Ou is the new BCA Chairman
During the celebrations, the Belize Chinese Association held elections for a new chairman. Edmund Kwan had held the post for four terms and the proprietor of the Corner Café at the Pound Yard Bridge, Johnston Ou was elected as the new chairman. Ou says that anyone needing assistance can find him right at the Pound …
Show me your Worst Behavior: Belizeans & Guatemalan AK and Ammo
The police department had a busy weekend in the west. Last weekend, a Guatemalan National Anibal Avila shot at the Customs Department from the safety of the Guatemalan side of the border after officers refused him entry into Belize. This time around, a different Guatemalan National drove a black Range Rover across the border on …
Dwayne Cummings gunned down in Orange Walk Town
An entire community is in mourning after 20-year-old, Dwayne Cummings was gunned down on Saturday night in Orange Walk Town. In a Town where most of the recent gun related deaths are linked to an ongoing gang warfare, Police and no one who knew Cummings believe his murder was gang related. Cummings was last seen …
Republic of China (Taiwan) donates to trade
The Republic of China (Taiwan) is one of the country’s staunch allies that continues to contribute to Belize’s development. Their latest contribution comes in the form of sixty thousand US dollars earmarked for trade development. This morning the Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan), His Excellency Remus Li-Kuo Chen, handed over the first disbursement …
Margaritaville Resort will soon be a fixture of Amergris Caye
Almost one week ago, we told you of the condominium resort with 71 waterfront residences planned for Ambergris Caye via Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Holdings. According to the Caribbean Journal, the resort will be constructed on the northern end of the island, inside the Bacalar Chico Marine Reserve …
Marie Sharp’s Fine Foods Ltd joins the fight against domestic violence
Marie Sharp’s Fine Foods Limited is looking to launch a new product into the local and export markets. Her new sauce will be officially introduced on Thursday during a ceremony in Belmopan. There is a twist to the story of this product as it actually is dedicated to the families who have and are still suffering from domestic violence …
Breaking Belize News
New Labour Commissioner appointed
The Ministry of Labour, Local Government and Rural Development announced the appointment of Ann Marie Thompson as […]
Victor Martinez survives attempt on his life
On Saturday night there was a shooting near West Canal in Belize city. According to police, Victor […]
Police find weed during drug search
On Saturday morning Orange Walk police conducted a search at the residence of Darren Pew. During that […]
Ministry of National Security exploring law which would require repeat gun offenders to wear tracking devices
The Minister of National Security today established an exploratory committee to examine the feasibility of a repeat […]
Guatemalans detained for two high powered rifles found in their possession
On Sunday sometime around 12:15 a.m. a report was made to Benque Viejo police that some men […]
Police: Man was sitting on highway when he was struck by vehicle
Yesterday there was a fatal road traffic accident on the Southern highway. According to police, sometime around […]
Police reviewing surveillance in murder of Dwayne Avila
Shortly after midnight on Saturday, Orange Walk police were called to an area in the San Lorenzo […]
Why Policy matters
The views expressed in this article are those of the writer and not necessarily those of Breaking Belize News. By […]
Second Annual “Ride to the Border” held in Toledo
The Ministry of National Security’s second annual Ride to the Border took place in the Toledo […]
La Ruta Maya 2019 one month away – are you ready?
With less than a month to go, teams from all over Belize, and some other countries […]
Department of the Environment issues statement on air pollution in Belmopan
The Department of the Environment (DOE) today issued a statement informing the public that within and […]
Experts attend Coastal Zone training
In an effort to improve Belize’s technical capacity and preparedness in Climate Change, the Ministry of […]
Police recover gun and ammo in Belize City
Belize City police conducted a search on Saturday in Belize City and found a gun and […]
Reflexions on Diabetes Type II
By Gerald Zuniga, M.D:
Holistic Clinician.
Concerned about the widespread nature of diabetes type II within our society, falling into an endemic status and also as a pandemia, ( on the world stage) I decided to prepare and share the following with you all. I want to see my people healthy! […]
Belize pushing sustainable tourism to Latin American market
Belize has unveiled a new tourism campaign aimed at targeting the Latin American market by promoting […]
Peace diplomats from Washington D.C. host Peace Education week in Belize
Peace Diplomats from Heavenly Culture World Peace Restoration of Light (HWPL) based in Washington D.C. are […]
Orange Walk Mayor calls on authorities to bring justice for the murder of Dwayne Cummings
Yesterday, the Mayor of Orange Walk Town, Kevin Bernard issued a statement extending his condolences to […]
Benque Viejo Police find guns and ammo
This morning, police in Benque Viejo del Carmen conducted a search along the banks of the […]
My Complete Guide To Secret Beach on Ambergris Caye
Many who visit Ambergris Caye list Secret Beach as one of their favorite places on their trip. My family – visiting last February with 6 kids in tow – went almost every day. (You can check out my Fun Things To Do on Ambergris Caye with Kids that WON’T Break the Bank)
It is one of the most stunningly beautiful natural areas in all of Belize – heartachingly gorgeous. But quick development often comes with some growing pains
So let me break it down for you. Starting with a Brief history of the area, How To Get There, What To Do There: Bars/Restaurant, Activities and Places to Stay, What to Bring and The Still Hidden Spots of Secret Beach.
Caye Caulker offers a kick-back, low-key island lifestyle
Caye Caulker, a five-mile long island off the coast of mainland Belize, is a charming Caribbean island where “go slow” is the motto. This island is known for its stunning seascapes, diverse water sports, eco-tours, and friendly community. It takes only 30 minutes by water taxi to reach Caye Caulker from its big sister Ambergris Caye. While it is much smaller, with less than 2,000 residents compared to Ambergris’ 20,000, it’s just as beautiful on this island and the pace is much slower. Caye Caulker is 10 years behind Ambergris Caye. The streets are still composed of packed sand, and you won’t need to dodge traffic here. You’ll see a few golf carts, but no cars or trucks.
Ambergris Caye, Belize
Ambergris Caye is Belize’s most popular tourist and expat haven. It is commonly referred to as the “Isla Bonita”, this term of endearment becoming popular after 1987 when Madonna released a song about the island. Stunning turquoise seascapes surround this Caribbean island. Looking out to sea you’re greeted by quintessential Caribbean scenes. Frothy white waves break on the offshore Mesoamerican barrier reef, a home to exotic, colorful sea creatures, coral, and sponges.If white sands and aquamarine waters are what you’re seeking on an island paradise, then look no further. Divers, snorkelers, fishermen, and sailors won’t be disappointed with Ambergris Caye.
Placencia Street Art Festival 2019
It’s that time again when art, music and food collide!
Every year, the small fishing village of Placencia comes alive as one of the world’s narrowest main street is turned into an interactive art and music festival venue. This 4,000 feet long street will become the host for painters, sculptors, musicians, poets, photographers and vendors from all over country.
Artists and will display their masterpieces and handicrafts along the central sidewalk- and yes sidewalk and street are used interchangeably since this village’s central side doubles as the main street.
My Favorite Waterfalls In Belize
Belize expat Gary Peterson sometimes needs to get off the beach. And when he does, a favorite activity is chasing waterfalls. Luckily, there are plenty of spectacular waterfalls in Belize for him to find.
Although there are great waterfalls elsewhere, waterfalls in Belize offer much to the adventure seeker.
Many falls elsewhere offer deep, cool pools of water to swim in, but how many sit among ancient ruins? Wouldn’t you like to explore a multi-level waterfall you won’t find in any guidebook?
With spectacular falls in many regions of Belize, lets check some of them out in no particular order.
Online Banking Introduction: Pros, Cons & Tips
The online banking evolution began in the early 1980’s, and according to Mary J. Cronin, currently, it is still evolving. However, in the era of modern technology and its advancement, banking is becoming more convenient and efficient. Notably, the millennials are using online banking, and the host of users grows each year.
How does online banking work? Online banking is referred to as carrying out banking operations over the internet through a bank’s secure website. Some services included are the transferring of funds, paying bills, paying credit
cards and monitoring your accounts. Evidently, online banking’s biggest pro is the convenience. You get equally accurate service from it as you do from your local bank branch.
Best Beaches in Belize
Simply put, Belize has been blessed by a bounty of beautiful beaches. Belize enjoys more than 200 miles (380 kilometers) of beaches along its Caribbean coast, ensuring a more than ample supply of white sandy beaches for both locals and tourists to enjoy.
In addition, Belize has more than 200 offshore islands located on the Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the second-largest coral reef system in the world. In Belize, islands are known as cayes (pronounced “keys”), and most are located within just a few miles of the mainland.
Belize’s largest island is the popular tourist destination of Ambergris Caye. Measuring 25 miles (40 km) long by one mile (1.6 km) across, Ambergris Caye is home to some 15,000 people. Other popular tourist destinations include Caye Caulker, Tobacco Caye, and Lighthouse Reef Atoll. Many of Belize’s islands lie inside protected marine environents and are uninhabited except for scientific monitoring stations.
San Pedro Town – The Colorful Capital of Ambergris Caye
San Pedro, Belize is perhaps the most famous location in the country due to it being featured in the hit 1986 Madonna song “La Isla Bonita” which was written about this lovely seaside town. Indeed, portions of the video for the song were filmed on location in San Pedro.
Belize vacations are just not complete without a visit to San Pedro. Originally a small fishing village, it now has a year-round population of about 20,000 people but receives tens of thousands of visitors every year.
San Pedro is located on the southern tip of Ambergris Caye, which makes it an excellent base of operations for activities like windsurfing, sea kayaking, kite surfing, fishing, snorkeling, sailing, and scuba diving on the reef. Because of this proximity, San Pedro is renowned for its amazing seafood restaurants, many of which serve fish and other delicacies caught earlier the same day. San Pedro also has several lovely beaches.
The Top Most Romantic Places in Belize
I’m not an expert in destination weddings or honeymoon getaways but there’s something that is clear to me…Belize is special…Belize is magical…Belize is perfect for romance.
I have been all over Belize and have worked in the tourism industry for years. Through my experience, I have encountered many couples vacationing in Belize and most of the time they couldn’t stop raving about the country. Time after time, they would say the same thing: how fortunate they were to travel to Belize and choosing an adventure destination for romance was a fun bonding experience.
Here are 7 places I recommend for an unforgettable romantic vacation:
Top Things to Do in Tobacco Caye
Idyllic, yet often forgotten, Tobacco Caye is much less visited than popular Cayes such as Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. Just 12 miles off the coast of Dangriga, Tobacco Caye will charm you from the very first moment. The tiny island appears to rise from pink Conch shells and is surrounded by pristine waters. Its prime location within the Belize Barrier Reef offers incredible diving and snorkeling opportunities. The island is truly tiny. Yet, it offers plenty of things to do!
International Sources
Belize blames waste water for air pollution problems
Belize Monday said it is working towards addressing the unpleasant stench that is affecting the residents in the capital and has blamed the wastewater emanating from several industries operating “within close proximity to each other”.
The Department of the Environment (DOE) said it is working to address the malodor affecting the quality of air and daily lives of residents and that “the types of effluent that are generated require different treatment approaches to mitigate negative environmental, human health and other impacts”.
This Is Us’ Jon Huertas Takes Us Along on His Belize Vacation
Jon Huertas, best known as Miguel from NBC’s This Is Us, Opens a New Window. wrote an exclusive essay for Us Weekly, detailing his trip to Belize, booked through Kind Traveler.
Every winter, my wife and I normally plan a vacation to a tropical destination, so this year we chose the lesser traveled Central American country of Belize. The absolute best way to book a trip like this, is through Kind Traveler Opens a New Window. . Founded by my friends Sean and Jessica after their first trip to Belize (how’s that for full circle), Kind Traveler is a way to book an amazing hotel and also do some good in the world. You see, Kind Traveler is a “give and get” hotel booking platform where travelers, like myself, can give a donation to a charity (I picked the Cayo Animal Welfare Society) and for the donation, get some pretty special discounts and perks in return. What could be better? I mean, come on, I get a discount for being a nice guy? So, when I found a property in Belize that believes in sustainability and positively impacting their community, I booked a couple flights and we were off!
Videos
Ladyville Flaming Marching Band, 5.5min. Back in September 2018, we introduced our viewers to the Belize Rural Central Marching Band, now known as the Ladyville Flaming Marching Band. They’re a young group but they’re full of energy and ready to show off their skills. We caught up with them at one of their practices in preparation for the upcoming Band Fest.
23 Essential First Time Belize Travel Tips , 15min. Mr. Bigalke has 23 decent tips about Belize, and he nails some of them. Many of them apply to Cayo, which is where all the eco-touirsm is anyways. "Planning a trip to Belize? Don't miss these important tips before you go. My fiancé and I spent 12 days in Belize at the end of 2018. We visited San Ignacio, Placencia, Caye Caulker, and even crossed the border to Guatemala. If it's your first time heading to Belize, these 23 travel tips cover some of the top things I wish I knew before we went."
Belize, el destino ideal para conocer en 2019, 3.5min. Belize, el destino ideal para conocer en 2019
La belleza poco convencional de Belize, con aguas poco profundas, eternos horizontes azules y divers...
BELIZE, 11min. Our trip to Punta Gorda, Belize.
Belizean Study Circle on the ICJ, 2hr.
Unitedville Water Shortages, 4min. The mandate of the Ministry of Rural Development is to provide improved water sources to rural areas of Belize. One village experiencing water challenges is Unitedville Village in the Cayo District. Our Belize Now team found out how the Ministry of Rural Development has helped to solve this problem.
UNIA Belize - Black History Month, 29min. February is celebrated as Black History Month. Emerson Guild of UNIA Belize, spoke with u about some of the Belizeans who have made noteworthy contributions to our history. It is his perspective that the conversation about the economic abilities and opportunities of black people need to amplified locally. He also talked about the work of the UNIA to lead that dialogue.
BTIA Belize is preparing for the Tourism Expo - BETEX 2019, 51min. BTIA Belize is preparing for the Tourism Expo - BETEX 2019. We talked to the organizers about what is planned for this year's event. Melanie Paz, newly elected President, also shared her vision for the work of the organization. On our couch:
Melanie Paz - President, BTIA.
Gale Malic-Ozaeta - Project Manager, BETEX 2019.
John M. Burgos - Executive Director, BTIA.
OM Shanti Belize - improve your body and mind, 22min. OM Shanti Belize continues to offer wellness sessions ti improve your body and mind. The latest addition to their roster is the Integrative Breathwork and Reiki workshops. Visiting ROC Ambassador, Lorraine Hendry Meyer, is in country to facilitate these sessions. She was our guest to talk about what is integrated breathwork and how it can improve your health.
January 2019 Scuba Diving with Nurse Sharks in Ambergris Caye, Belize, 3min.
January 2019 Scuba Diving Ambergris Caye, Belize, 2.5min. Diving with Turtles and Rays in Ambergris Caye, Belize
Diving Brown Pelicans Harvest Caye, Belize, 6min.
February 11, 2019
FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE
Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report. Specials and Events
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials
The San Pedro Sun
Row for the Crown
A marathon rowing fundraiser to help Miss San Pedro Chelsea Muńoz as she battles Hodgkins Lymphoma. The CrossFit community on the island has come together to help with teams of 5 rowing a total of 42,195 meters (26.5 miles) in a 4-hour window.
Wolfe’s Woofer: Idiots
“Hey, Mr. Dennis.”
I was passing a construction site on Coconut Drive when I heard the familiar voice of Mario, my friend and sometimes yard worker. He was leaning on a shovel next to a huge hole in the ground while a group of workers behind him argued with each other.
“What’s going on with you?” I asked.
“I’m working with a bunch of idiots this week,” he said. “The foreman’s wife is sick, and he hasn’t been here for two days. Everybody but me is trying to be the leader, and nobody can decide on nothing.”
Letter to the Editor: The ongoing concern of Sargassum
Dear Editor,
I am writing to voice my complaint and concern about the apparent and ongoing concern of sargassum washing ashore the beaches of San Pedro. I am staying at the former Ruby’s Hotel and the putrid smell of the Sargasso is so overwhelming that I will be cutting my stay in San Pedro significantly from four weeks to just one week.
In the four days I have been here, I have witnessed absolutely no attempt or effort on behalf of waterfront business owners or town council to even make an effort to clean up this putrid situation. I read previously in your paper that funding was in place from the Belize government to aid in cleanup of Sargasso weed. Apparently, this money has not reached the desired intent, which is to clean up the Sargasso and save the tourism industry from sure collapse.
Doctor Love: Adopt, Don’t Shop
Dear Love,
My friend just bought a puppy from a breeder and I am so upset I can hardly speak to her. She knows I am involved with shelters and fight daily to save dogs from death and the abuse I see is heartbreaking. She wasn’t ashamed when she told me and didn’t apologize when I explained my position on her purchase. She said she’s had the same breed of dog for years and always got her puppies from the same breeder and feels more comfortable getting another puppy from him.
How can I educate strangers when I can’t even make friends understand that there are hundreds of dogs in shelters who need loving homes and will die unless people like her stop buying from breeders and puppy mills?
Misc Belizean Sources
THE SADNESS OF THE MAYA
It was a Maya man who was always sad, one day the animals approached him and asked him what he wanted, his answer was that he wanted to be happy, the owl told him to talk about things that could be understood and realized. That they would do anything to see him happy. Then he mentioned that he wished to know when the rains would come, the nightingale promised to tell him. He wanted to know all the medicinal plants and the snake told him that she would mark them with his step. The vulture he gave him the good view that the man wanted, he did not want to get tired and the deer told him that he would give him his energy, he asked to be strong and it was the jaguar who gave him his strength, he wanted to be intelligent and the fox offered to teach him, finally he wanted to climb the trees and the squirrel offered his claws. The man left and the owl told the animals that even if the man knew and could do more things he would always be sad.
Omolewa Osain, the Soul of Cugazz
Live in Concert, Feb 16th
Way to go Mary Hill R.C School
Mary Hill RC School 11th Scout group joins with the Scout Association to celebrate in February National Scouts' month. On saturday scouts delivered free breakfast at our hospital. Today a mass was celebrated to start this month's activities
Placencia Sidewalk Art Festival
Day 2
Channel 5
Orange Walk Resident Charged for Drug Offences
On Saturday morning police in Orange Walk Town conducted a joint intelligence operation. Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at the residence of 26-year-old Darren Puga. There police found 2637 grams of suspected cannabis. Puga was arrested and charged with ‘Possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply to another’.
Police Remove Guns and Ammunition Off Streets
This morning police in Benque Viejo Town searched an area along the banks of the Mopan River. There they found one Bersa 9mm pistol, three 9mm magazines, four live 9mm Luger rounds, and one Winchester 12guage pump action shotgun containing four live Eiber 12gauge cartridges.
In Belize City, police yesterday conducted a search in an abandoned lot on Freedom Street. There they found a .380 pistol along with a magazine containing seven live rounds of ammunition.
Young Basketball Player Murdered in OW
“About 12:20 a.m., on 10.2.2019, Orange Walk Police responded to a report on San Martin Street. Upon arrival, they observed the body of a male person with a gunshot wound to the head. He was identified as Dwayne Avila, 20-year-old Belizean coordinator, of an Orange Walk address. The body was transported to the Orange Walk Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Police are investigating.
The Benefits of a Migrant Community: Spanish Lookout
An O.A.S. 2015 reports shows that Belize is the Central American country that has had the highest immigration since the early 1980’s. The foreign-born population in 2013 represented a little over fifteen percent of Belize’s total population – about sixty percent from Guatemala and El Salvador. Belize has long been sought after by groups of people looking for opportunities. Today, there are entire communities built by immigrants – one such community is Spanish Lookout. They have some of the most recognizable brands which supply commodities for most of the country.
The Reporter
Police Find Many Guns, Ammo & Weed; Charge One
Police have reported that they made a number of gun discoveries over this weekend.
The latest find was made sometime around 8:45 this morning along the Macal River in Benque Viejo Town. That discovery yielded a Bersa brand 9 millimeter pistol along with three 9 millimeter magazines and four live 9 millimeter rounds; and a Winchester brand 12 gauge pump action shotgun containing live Eiber brand 12 gauge cartridges.
Basketball Player Shot Dead in Orange Walk
Police have released preliminary information on the shooting murder of Dwayne Avila Cummings, 20, which occurred just after midnight today in Orange Walk Town.
Avila’s body was found on San Martin Street in the San Lorenzo housing area of Orange Walk, where he lived, worked as a coordinator, attended school and played basketball. He had reportedly been shot in the head.
Jaguars Roaming Free in Independence
Following several sightings of two jaguars on the prowl in Independence Village attacking dogs and livestock, residents are concerned about the safety of children in the nearby vicinity and whether the Forestry Department is taking note of the situation to prevent any further attacks.
Breaking Belize News
Belize Zoo stands ready to help with roaming Jaguars in Independence Village
The Belize Zoo is ready to assist the Forestry Department with the rehabilitation of the Jaguars which are roaming near Independence Village in Southern Belize.
Sharon Matola, the founder of the Belize Zoo told Breaking Belize News that the Zoo is prepared to assist, immediately with the safe capture and rehabilitation of the Jaguars, which have become a public safety concern because they have been attacking household dogs and livestock in the village.
Weekend football roundup including Belize’s ‘El Classico’ results
In football sports news, this weekend saw the defending champs Belmopan Bandits and Verdes FC meet in the Premier League of Belize (PLB) 2018/2019 closing season. Reward of $1,000 being offered for information on Dwayne Cummings murderer
By Micah Goodin: Last week when a Japanese businessman and his son were shot the Commissioner of Police posted to Facebook that the matter was being “aggressively” investigated. He also stated that the business community and the police department had collaborated for a reward for information leading to an arrest. Traffic accident claims life of a man from San Juan village, Stann Creek district
A man from San Juan village in the Stann Creek district was killed this morning after he was knocked down on the Southern Highway. Reliable sources in the area told BBN that the man was socializing at a bar in the area and decided to head to Mango Creek when he was knocked down. Team Crunchtime takes RF&G Up and Down River Challenge
Team Crunchtime, sponsored by BurnBox and Belize Aggregates took the first place spot in the Up and Down River Challenge, which was hosted by the Belize Canoe Association (BCA) and sponsored by RF&G.
The race started at Mahogany Hall in Bullett Tree at 10:00 am and finished at the Wooden Bridge in San Ignacio. A total of 13 teams Verdes basketball team defeats defending champs, Belize Hurricanes with ease
The Verdes basketball team defeated defending champs, Belize Hurricanes with ease this weekend at the Belize Civic Center. This was an important boost to Verdes who had suffered a devastating loss against the Dangriga Dream Ballers last weekend. Student shot to death in Orange Walk Town
The Orange Walk community woke up this morning with the devastating news of the loss of a promising UB student and basketball player.
Dwayne Cummings lifeless body was found this morning with a gunshot wound to the head in the area of San Lorenzo Road Orange Walk Town. Authorities bust 3 men with AK 47 rifles in Benque Viejo, Cayo
Early this morning, police busted 3 persons in Benque Viejo del Carmen with 2- AK 47 rifles with (47) 7.62 live rounds and (14) 5.56 live rounds of ammunition. New study finds that Belize suicide rate has increased despite decline in global suicide rate
According to a new study (https://www.bmj.com/content/364/bmj.l94), despite a decline in the global suicide rate, a few countries, including Belize has experienced an increase in the suicide rate during the period 1990 to 2016. 2018 was one of the hottest year on earth!
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) warns that the earth’s continuous long term warming trend has continued, with 2018 being the hottest year on record.
Videos
Row for the Crown, 4min. Mission accomplished!
Row for the Crown, 4min. The last teams!
Row for the Crown-
A marathon rowing fundraiser, 4min. San Pedro's Crossfit community comes together to raise funds and support Miss San Pedro 2018-2019 Chelsea Munoz, as she rows through her greatest challenge after she was diagnosed with cancer.
The fundraising event brings teams of 5 rowing a total of 42,195 meters (26.5 miles) in a 4-hour window.
Rainbow at Sunset at Blue’s in Corozal, Belize, 1.5min.
Wildlife of the Peten & Belize, 8.5min.
Amazing view parasailing BELIZE, 11min. Wonderful experience parasailing in BELIZE.
Harvest Caye, Belize Cave Tour - Feb 2nd 2017, 45min. Cave Tubing Trip in Harvest Caye, Belize, tubing down the river into a cave that has a waterfall.
Barton Creek Belize, 6.5min.
Snorkeling Hol Chan, Belize Feb 6 2019, 17min. Celebrated my bday snorkeling with sharks, sting rays and a sea turtle! Hol Chan reserve in Belize.
Carnival Glory - Belize 2018, 10min. Our day trip to Chukka Jaguar Outpost for some zip line action through the rain forest canopy. Enjoy!!
Beachfront Bargain Hunt, A Budget to Squeeze in placencia Belize, 21min.
Permit fishing in Belize, 3min. Thanks to Will Flack and the team especially Magic Mike Anderson and Nancy for a great week at the Permit Club in Hopkins, Belize. An amazing experience...
Belize - Jan. 2019, 15min. This video illustrates a tour of a few of Belize's publicly known tourist destinations. I've made highlight reel vacation videos as short as two minutes. This one, however, is lengthy because it was created for my family and friends who haven't had a chance to visit our home in a while. I figure others may get a good insight into travel life in Belize by watching this video. Feel free to ask me any questions and I'll do my best to give helpful answers.
Southern Belize, 8min. Paradise....
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