Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.
The San Pedro Sun
Mercury in Fish from the Macal River and Other Rivers The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Department of Environment and the Belize Electric Company Limited (BECOL), has completed another assessment of mercury levels in fishes from the Macal, Mopan, Belize, Rio Grande, and New rivers. The following advisory is being issued to guide the public on the safe amounts of fish that can be eaten to avoid ill effects of potential mercury exposure.
Credentials presented to the Governor General of Belize eptember 18th, two ambassadors and a high commissioner presented their credentials to the Governor General H.E. Sir Colville Young at the Belize House in Belmopan.
H.E. Mr. Yang Hyung II, Ambassador of the Republic of South Korea; H.E. Mr. Cosmas Cheppy Tripraksoso Wartono, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia; and H.E. Dr. Ngosa Simbyakula, SC, High Commissioner of the Republic of Zambia to Belize; all presented their letters of credence to the Governor General.
Belizean teacher participates in prestigious global education exchange program A Belizean teacher has been chosen to participate in a prestigious global education program in the United States of America (USA). He is 29-year-old Alex Cruz of the southern Stann Creek District, who through the teacher exchange program ‘Participate Learning,’ will be teaching at the Rocky River Elementary School in Cabarrus County, Concord, North Carolina for the upcoming academic year. The exchange program recruits teachers from Latin America to teach in the USA for a period of three to five years.
Caye Caulker Childrens Parade Don't miss the Caye Caulker Childrens Parade. Come cheer our island students as they parade and #celebrate Belize Independence. And you really don't want to miss Ocean Academy HS Drum Corps and Majorettes. Friday morning @ 9:00.
US law enforcement agencies seek fugitive US law enforcement officials were at former senator Juliet Thimbriel’s apartment to pick up Lad Duane Ottofy, 60, of Owensboro, Kentucky.
Ottofy fled the United States after he was indicted on multiple counts of sexual abuse of minors.
Ottofy will be held for 48 hours before he will be handed over to US authorities.
Police Dept. Will Charge Nelson Espinosa for murder Commissioner of Police Chester Williams in a Facebook post says "Since the discovery of Ms. Choc body over the weekend, the Police have been busy trying to find those who are responsible for her untimely departure from this life. The investigation is being pursued from various angles and a number of persons have been detained by the police from whom some useful information was obtained. This coupled with the determination of our investigators led us to the detention of the main suspect in this matter, the recovery of a motorcycle that took the suspected murderer to the area from where Ms. Choc was taken and the vehicle in which she was subsequently taken in. The evidence collected so far clearly shows that the suspect intentionally and unlawfully caused the death of Adamir Choc by unlawful harm. We are therefore in the process of preparing a charge of Murder against Nelson Espinoza a 22 year old, in respect of the death of Ms. Choc.
OLANTUNJI Performing LIVE At the
Hon. Louis Sylvestre Sports Complex, tomorrow, Friday, September 20th, 2019!
Cricket gears donated to Ladyville Technical High School On Wednesday, September 18, 2019, the High Commissioner of New Zealand H.E. Mr. Anton Ojala made a donation of cricket gears to the Governor General H.E. Sir Colville Young. The gears will be given to Ladyville Technical High School.
Clean up campaign along the Miami Beach! Grey House (CJC) teaming up with Mr Ryan Rivera (Oceana) for National Service Day! Let's make Corozal Town the cleanest town in Belize!
FSTV September Celebrations The BTB booth at the Fort Street Tourism Village gave visitors a quick orientation on how Belize celebrates its Independence Day today!
First Maya Intercultural Festival Our Belizean Yucatec Maya community being represented by To'one Masehualo'on in the First Maya Intercultural festival in Chetumal Quintana Roo(Mex). To'one Masehualo'on have been one of the most hard working groups when it comes to the preservation of our Maya culture and identity. Yuum Bo'otik To'one Masehualo'on .
BELIZE INDUSTRIAL HEMP REGULATIONS The Misuse of Drugs (Industrial Hemp) Regulations, 2019, establishes the rules to govern the manufacturing and processing of hemp products, as well as the cultivation of industrial hemp, which the rules mandates can have a maximum tetrahydrocannabinol content of 1%.
Hemp products, though not listed explicitly in the regulations, can cover a wide range of commodities ranging from food products, medicine, construction materials, hemp oil, personal care products and more. Recent estimates have placed the global hemp industry at just below USD $5 billion in 2019, with growth projects placing that figure palpably above USD $10 billion in 2026.
Update on the Remediation of the New River ince the installation of the first aerator at Maracas Bar and Grill on September 9, 2019, the Department of the Environment (DOE) has been monitoring water quality and hydrogen sulphide (H2S) levels of the New River, twice daily (morning & afternoon). The DOE has noted some improvements in water quality and a decrease in H2S levels.
On Wednesday, September 18, 2019, personnel from the Belize Natural Energy Limited and the DOE conducted routine maintenance and testing of the H2S sensor situated beside La Inmaculada R.C. School and Maracas Bar and Grill. As part of the testing, the alarm was turned on to check for functionality. At no time did the H2S alarm go off because of high levels of H2S in the area.
FINANCIAL INTELLIGENCE UNIT PARTNERS WITH U.S. EMBASSY TO CONDUCT ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING TRAINING The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and U.S. Embassy Belize facilitated a training on covert sources of information in money laundering investigations on September 18, 2019.
The training, conducted by the U.S. Treasury’s Office of Technical Assistance, was aimed to enhance awareness of Belize’s criminal laws on preventing money laundering and the use of covert sources in money laundering investigations. 24 participants representing the Belize Police Department, Customs & Excise Department, Belize Tax Services, FIU, Immigration & Nationality Services, and International Financial Services Commission shared case studies, learned key
concepts in utilizing covert sources of information, and engaged in practical exercises that address real life scenarios.
Caye Caulker Village Council update Today was a very successful service day for the Caye Caulker Village Council. The new cemetery was nicely cleaned by the councilors, the task force, the Stingrayz and the volunteers that showed up. Thank you for coming out to assist us.
The Caulker Caulker Village Council was successful in getting the fogger on the north side to fumigate. We thank our staff and J.C. Constructions for making this endeavor successful.
Working together for the community!
Carnival Corozal Friday, September 20th. Line up starting in front of Gush & Emy on 7th Avenue - Floats - Marching Bands - Carnival Groups. Independence Day eve September, 20th - Ceremony and Party at Central Park starting at 8:00 p.m. Jouvert - Paint - Powder - Water September, 21st morning 4:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. at Corozal Central Park. Independence Day Beach Party - from 1:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight at Miami Beach.
Galen University Hosts Scholarship Ceremony The Annual Galen University Scholarship Ceremony was held on September 13th, 2019 at Galen’s Central Farm Campus and celebrated the awarding of scholarships to 65 deserving students. Each year this event gives a wonderful opportunity to recognize the success of our existing scholarship students continuing their educational journey as Galen Eagles, and to welcome new scholars into our Athletic, Academic and Professional scholarship programs. Galen University’s scholarship program awards students between 40% to 100% of tuition cost covering up to 4 years to complete their Bachelor’s degr
Paradise Theater playing this weekend Toy Store 4,
Child's Play,
Annabelle,
Spiderman: Far From Home.
Playing Spider-man Far From Home at 7pm for all of those who requested last weekend.
**Please Note: We are closed on Saturday Night.**
Channel 7
Adamir's Alleged Killer Charged
Last night we told you that there had been a confession in the Adamir Choc murder case. Today 22 year old Nelson Espinoza was arraigned for her murder.
19 year old Choc disappeared on the 10th of September but her body was only found days later on the 14th. And 5 days later, police have their killer.
We saw him today in Belmopan - and the car and motorbike that factored into her death. Here's the story:
This is the car that police believe took Adamir Choc to her death on the morning of September 10th. The motorbike is also a key piece of evidence - the alleged killer is believed to have arrived at the club own the motorbike.
Grandmother Killed In Cayo
And while the worry in Belmopan has been about teenagers being killed, last night in Cayo, a grandmother was killed.
It happened at around 8:30 last night when police were called back to the home of the Galindo Brothers, which they had left just five minutes earlier.
It's on Perez Street in Santa Elena - an area that has known violence recently - and last night, it looked like retaliation.
The gunman's initial targets ran for cover - and the gunman then turned his weapon on a mother and her grandchildren inside the house. Cherisse Halsall has the story:
An American Pedophile in Ladyville
This morning in Ladyville, police picked up a fugitive pedophile from the US state of Kentucky.60 year old Lad Duane Ottofy, came to Belize in January, and had been living under the radar in an apartment - directly in front of the village police station.
But, he was on the run from four counts of first-degree sexual abuse, one count of first-degree sexual abuse on a victim under age 12, one count of second-degree rape and one count of second-degree sodomy. And all the crimes were allegedly committed against minors between November 2017 and December 2018.
PM On The Politics Of Joshua Perdomo
Turning now to politics for a month now, Prime Minister Barrow and his government has been roundly criticized for the $40-thousand dollar Cabinet and House approved debt write-off for Joshua Perdomo, son of Cabinet Secretary Carlos Perdomo.
As we told you, he was a former Ministry of National Security employee, who went on study leave, but never came back. The problem is that Perdomo skipped out on his obligation to return and his honor repayment terms.
And now, Government says, the debt has been statute barred - and Government cannot ever recover it.
Government says it tried to get him to honor his agreement, but was unable to do so, even though his father, as Cabinet Secretary, answers directly to the Prime Minister as the head of Cabinet.
PM Vex With US For Roughing Up Senior Tax Man Verde
We also asked the Prime Minister to comment on the arrest of Reynaldo Verde, the Deputy Director of the Belize Tax Service Department.
As has been widely reported, the FBI has charged him with attempted extortion and interference with commerce by means of extortion. They picked him up twelve days ago while he was transiting through the US. He was returning from an official trip to Brussels, where he attended an international tax conference.
As the minister of finance, the PM is his boss, and when the subject was brought up today, Barrow expressed great dissatisfaction with the way the US authorities handled Verde's initial detention. He said that they refused to allow officials from the Belize Embassy in the US the state level courtesy to look after one of their own citizens. Here's how he explained what happened:
Que Viva Vega?
And switching gears briefly to politics, We asked the Prime Minister if his former Deputy PM, Gaspar Vega, is attempting to make a comeback in Orange Walk North. As we told you, news has emerged of Vega's renewed interest in UDP politics, and the Prime Minister told us today that at this time, he's only offered to give limited support. Here's that conversation:
Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow - Prime Minister:
"I don't know that is so, certainly as you all reported on, the last Sunday of the village council elections, Gaspar certainly came out to help in Orange Walk North. I think we had the biggest villages on that Sunday, Trail Farm, San Jose, San Pablo..."
Shoplifter Pleads Guilty
Last night we showed you the dramatic chase - down of a Benny's shoplifter. He is 56 year old Bert Keith Sylvester. And, after three nights in lockdown, he wasted no time and pleaded guilty to stealing a bag of 100 hag saw blades valued at $254.00.
And for his candor - he escaped jail time. Magistrate Palmer imposed a non-custodial sentence of a fine of $500 plus a $5.00 cost of court fine of which he is to pay by December 1, 2019, in default, 5 months' imprisonment.
Price, In Perpetuity National Hero George Price died 8 years ago today - and, as has become tradition, the party he founded held a wreath laying ceremony today at his grave in the Lord Ridge Cemetery. Former Prime Minister Said Musa, who served under Price in the 80's and 90's - and then succeeded him - praised his mentor's well known humility:
And while Price was praised for his work as national leader, what is less spoken about is his tenure as party leader. He led the PUP from 1956 to 1996 - an incredible 40 year run.
Briceno, The Bounce Back We also asked Briceno about his recovery after what could have been a fatal accident on August second. Sporting a new post-crash hairstyle - forced by a massive gash to the head - he said he is living in the aftermath of a miracle:
Briceno Walks Diplomatic Tightrope Between Taipei and Beijing And while Briceno was dealing with his accident - during that same week - his area representative for Caribbean Shores, Kareem Musa was in mainland China rubbing shoulders with apparatchiks of China's Zhi Gong Party.
That sent all kinds of geopolitical signals - and raised the questions of whether the PUP - if elected - would consider a switch in alliances between Taiwan and China - as others in the region have done.
Partial State of Emergency Declared To Combat Drought Over the last few months, we've been following the massive negative impact that the ongoing drought has been having on the country. We took you to the Orange Walk District where corn farmers lost millions of dollars because the crop did not mature.
And, as you've been seeing, the New River in the Orange Walk District is stagnant and suffocating.
Up to about 2 weeks ago, the pollution in the river was the worst that residents have ever seen it in their lifetimes.
The pollution was caused by wastewater from multiple sources, which then poisoned the water column. The condition of the river was compounded by the drought, since no rainwater was available to keep it flowing.
Agricultural Losses To Drought Substantial So, after the Prime Minister presented that broad overview of the impacts of the drought, Agriculture Minister Godwin Hulse was up next.
He provided extensive details of their assessment of each of the crops that were negatively impacted, and in which parts of the country. His ministry was able to do this based on its registration of the majority of the nation's farmers.
It is called the Belize Agriculture Information Management System, and it was a timely tool to address this crisis.
Currently, the Ministry system indicates that there are over 418,000 acres of land under cultivation, comprising 8,274 farms countrywide.
Finding Credit Relief For Farmers So, after the Government officials were given this very detailed picture, the Prime Minister, the Agriculture Minister, and the Governor of the Central Bank started to come up with a plan of action to alleviate the financial pain that the farmers are facing. They've gotten the support of all the local financial institutions to give those impacted by the drought a little relief from their loan payments, given that they are facing these 10s of millions of dollars in losses.
Here's what the Central Bank Governor, the Representative for domestic banks, and the Development Finance Corporation have decided to implement so that the farmers can get a little ease:
Coming Up With A Climate Resilient Solution The Prime Minister also made it clear that he and his government will be lobbying international financial institutions to access outside funding to aid the farmers in this time of great need.
He also discussed a proposal that the World Bank has made to help the farmers become more climate-resilient so that their investments can perform better, in even these harshest of weather conditions:
Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow - Prime Minister:
"Almost by coincidence, I had a meeting with Miss Tahseen Sayed, who's the World Bank country director for the Caribbean. She made the point that their next areas of intervention..."
Leader Of Opp. Wants Trickle Down For Farmers p>And while the Prime Minister was outlining all those measures at the Radisson, the Leader of the Opposition was at the Lord Ridge Cemetery, as you just saw, laying a wreath for George Price.
He hadn't heard yet of the relief measures, but he said he hopes they trickle down to all levels:
Another Man Missing On San Pedro A 32 year old man from San Pedro has been missing for 10 days. Marvin Mendoza was last seen at his job site on September 9th. Since then, his brother has made been steadily looking for him, but with no results. Today police gave at least one clue as to his whereabouts:
UWI Global Gifts For Students 13 UWI students received scholarships today to continue their studies. It is part of what is called the Global Giving Scholarship Bursaries. We dropped by the ceremony this morning to find out how meaningful this financial help will be to the students:
Sharmayne Saunders - Acting Head, UWI:
"So 3 years ago we started the Global Giving Scholarship Bursary Award and basically a lot of the funds come from philanthropic donations and also fundraising that the university puts off..."
New River Recovering, Slowly The Department of Environment is reporting tonight that they continue to diligently monitor the conditions of the New River. They want to ensure that its current polluted state does not pose not any public health threat to the residents of the Orange Walk District.
They say that they have been conducting tests twice daily to keep track of the water quality and the noxious hydrogen sulfide levels in the river. And, they've noted some slight improvements since the installation of the first mechanical aerator 10 days ago at Maracas Bar and Grill.
AIBL Settlement Soon To Be Finalized Turning back to our conversation with Prime Minister Dean Barrow, he announced today that the settlement between Atlantic International Bank and Federal Trade Commission could be finalized as early as next week.
As viewers are aware, the Sanctuary Belize Land Fraud fiasco started playing out last year when the investment scheme became the subject of a lawsuit by the FTC. That US regulatory body called it the biggest foreign land scam it has ever investigated. And even though it involved US developers selling land in US dollars to US Citizens, Belize's financial sector took some of the hit.
The Future Gas The media also asked the Prime Minister to discuss the approval that his Government has given for a new state assisted monopoly which will supply Belizeans butane for the next 15 years.
As we told you last month, the Barrow Administration has passed the National Liquified Petroleum Gas Project law. This new legislation proposes a model for a public-private partnership, where the state will protect a monopoly on the supply of LPG, or butane as it is better known in Belize.
A new entity called National Gas Company will take over the responsibility to supply the entire country with Butane, and it unseats the current suppliers.
PUP's Put In Work Today
Earlier you saw the wreath laying for George Price - which was a family function for his relatives, and a party function for the PUP.
But, at the state level, it's National Service Day and as part of the activities, PUP area rep Kareem Musa held a luncheon for the sanitation workers at the Lopez Mateos Park in King's Park. It was also a celebration of the newly painted mural in the park. We also met PUP Standard Bearer for Mesopotamia Dr. Candice Pitts and her volunteer painters from Maud Williams. Here is more about the importance of these two initiatives:
Soca Sweetness Coming!
The 6th Annual Soca and Culture Fest is tomorrow night at the Marion Jones Stadium and just like previous years, the line up is dynamite. The Soca crew including Kes The Band, King Bubba, Konshens and Kevin Lyttle arrived in Belize today. Mr. 'Famaly' himself, Skinny Fabulous arrives until tomorrow. But all the artists are ready for the big show. We met them at the Princess this afternoon in their element. And just a heads up, the videos featured in the story may be too much gyrating for the kids, so, Parental discretion is advised:
The concert begins at 9:00 tomorrow night. Music Ambassador Shyne Barrow and his team brought in the artists for the concert.
Channel 5
Emergency Assistance to Farmers Impacted by Drought At a very lengthy press conference that went through the lunch hour today, Prime Minister Dean Barrow announced that a state of emergency is to be declared in parts of [...]
Opposition Leader Comments on G.O.B.’s Plan to Assist Farmers While this is not the first occasion that drought has affected the agricultural sector, it is certainly the worse. The government’s plan to work with Central Bank and local banks [...]
Still No Arrests in Belmopan Double Murder Investigation continues in the Belmopan double murder of minors Gruver Delgado and Herman Valladarez. The two cousins were gunned down after delivering freshly made tortillas. While several persons of interests [...]
U.S. Fugitive Captured in Belize A U.S. national indicted on sex charges and wanted in Kentucky was detained in Belize this morning. The Special Branch Unit zoomed in on sixty-year-old Ladd Duane Ottofy who was [...]
A Settlement between A.I.B.L. and F.T.C. is Imminent The winding down and liquidation of Atlantic International Bank Limited is nearing completion as a settlement with the Federal Trade Commission is imminent. This succeeds the Sanctuary Bay real estate [...]
PM Finally Weighs In On Joshua Perdomo Debt Amnesty The forty-thousand dollar debt write-off for Joshua Perdomo, son of Cabinet Secretary Carlos Perdomo, was finally addressed by PM Barrow this afternoon, several weeks after the cabinet-approved motion was brought [...]
Prime Minister Says No Apologies on Supporting the LPG Deal The National Gas Company continues to be a subject of criticism. Three of the major butane suppliers, Southern Choice Butane Limited, Gas Tomza and Belize Western Energy Limited are speaking [...]
Who Will Represent Belize at the Hague? On Tuesday, Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington gave a brief update on developments in respect of Belize proceeding to the International Court of Justice to resolve the territorial dispute with Guatemala. [...]
Fisherman, Guilty of Theft Tonight, fifty-six-year old Bert Keith Sylvester, a fisherman, has been fined for theft. Sylvester is the man captured on footage soon after he committed a broad daylight theft at Benny’s Home [...]
Phase One of Contingency Plan Activated at La Inmaculada The Management of La Inmaculada School in Orange Walk Town has moved into gear to activate phase one of their contingency plan to ensure the health of the school population [...]
The P.U.P.’s Position on Taiwan A trip to mainland china by P.U.P. Caribbean Shores Area Representative Kareem Musa, Belize City Deputy Mayor Oscar Arnold, and Councilor Michael “Chips” Noralez in August stirred controversy. Musa told [...]
PM Says Nothing Official on Gapi’s Candidacy There is still no confirmation regarding Gaspar Vega’s candidacy in Orange Walk North, despite his intention to rouse political activity in that constituency leading up to the November 2020 General [...]
Belize City Resident Critically Injured in Drive-by Shooting Thirty-one year-old Joseph Rowland remains in a critical condition at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital following a drive-by shooting on Tuesday night. Rowland was in front of his house on [...]
Where is Marvin Mendoza? His Brother is Looking for Him Where is Marvin Mendoza? The Honduran national has been living on San Pedro, Ambergris Caye with his brother for some time now working in construction. But on September seventh, he [...]
Permit Issued for a Peaceful Protest in Belmopan A permit has been issued to a group of concerned Belizeans, who will assemble at the steps of the National Assembly building, to express their discontent this Friday. One of [...]
National Day of Service in Memory of the Father of the Nation Activities were held across the country today to mark National Service Day. At the Lord Ridge Cemetery, the People’s United Party held a wreath laying ceremony to honour the Father [...]
Opposition Leader Recovers After Road Traffic Accident P.U.P. Leader John Briceño is back to full capacity after being involved in a road traffic accident in early August. Briceño was in the passenger seat of his Toyota Prado [...]
Healthy Living: New Support Group to Help with Dementia The twenty-first of September is Independence Day for Belize, but in the rest of the world, it will be commemorated as World Alzheimer’s Day. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common [...]
The Reporter
WORST FEARS REALIZED Commissioner of Police Chester Williams has confirmed that one man, Nelson Espinoza, 22, will be charged for the murder of Adamir Choc, 19. In a Facebook post minutes ago, Williams stated, “The evidence collected so far clearly shows that the suspect intentionally and unlawfully caused the death of Adamir Choc ...
U.S Feds & Belize Police Descend On Apartment Complex In Ladyville The Reporter has been able to confirm that there are currently local Police and what appear to be US law enforcement personnel at an apartment complex in Ladyville owned by former UDP Senator Juliet Thimbriel...
New River Stench Still Causes Closure Of Near-By School La Inmaculada RC School in Orange Walk Town has implemented what it refers to as Phase 1 of school attendance in the upcoming days. We are told that this is a result of the smell coming off the New River...
Santa Elena Shooting Claims The Life Of 58yr. Old Woman The Reporter has confirmed that the woman shot in Santa Elena last night (September 18th. ) has died. According to reports, around 8:30pm two men on a motorcycle arrived at a home on Perez Street ...
LOVE FM
Father of the Nation’s legacy lives on
National Hero and Father of the Nation George Cadle Price was remembered today with a wreath laying ceremony as the nation observed National Service Day. Price led the country to Independence on 21 September 1981 and served as the Prime Minister of Belize from 1981 to 1984, and 1989 to 1993. At the ceremony, the …
La Inmaculada RC School enters Phase 1 of their emergency plan
La Inmaculada RC School has entered phase one of their plan due to heavy rains causing a strong odor to rise from the New River. The school has now adjusted their schedule of classes to begin early and end early for students not to be exposed to the odor coming from the river. The decision …
Double shooting leaves one woman dead and one man injured
An innocent mother of six lost her life last night when she was callously gunned down in her own home in Santa Elena Town Cayo. 58 year old Mirna Young was not the intended target however and the gunman also injured another man who was inside her yard. Assistant Commissioner of Police Joseph Myvette told …
US Fugitive arrested in Belize
60-year-old, Lad Dwayn Ottofy of Kentucky, USA, was detained this morning by Belize’s Special Branch. Ottofy is an American citizen wanted by the US authorities for the crimes of sodomy, rape and sexual abuse. Ottofy had been hiding out in Belize after fleeing the United States. Authorities caught up with him and at around nine …
22-year-old Nelson Espinosa arraigned for the murder of Adamir Choc
While the Young/Galindo family grieves their loss, the Choc family is one step closer to receiving justice for the murder of 19-year-old Adamir Choc. 22-year-old Nelson Espinosa has been arrested, charged, and was arraigned in the Belmopan Magistrate’s Court earlier today. No plea was taken from him, as the case is a matter for the …
DOE reports improvement in the New River
The Department of Environment is now progressing into their next stage to heal the New River. The river has been in a terrible state releasing a strong stench and the water quality has been poor. This raised concerns for health officials and residents who use and live near the river. The DOE has since then, …
Sylvester was spared jail time for theft
56-year-old Bert Keith Sylvester, was fined five hundred dollars plus five dollars cost of court for stealing a bag of 100 hack saw blade belonging to Benny’s Home Center. This morning Sylvester was unrepresented when he appeared before Magistrate, Khadeen Palmer, where he pleaded guilty to the charge. Allegations are that on Monday, September …
Belize Medical Associates: New Options On Ambergris Caye & Reflections on Expat Amnesia Early this week, I visited the new Belize Medical Associates branch that opened just recently on Ambergris Caye. They hosted an Inauguration Party a few weeks back but unfortunately, I was in the States – so I took this opportunity for a private tour of this VERY impressive new building.
Situated on the Grand Caribe Campus aka Caribeville about 1.5 miles north of town, the building for the new clinic is huge and very solid.
A lovely receptionist at the front desk, a large cool waiting room and a serious list of visiting doctors.
Top Islands in Belize Belize has over 200 islands and choosing one to visit may be difficult but we are making it easier with our top picks! Tobacco Caye, located ten miles East of Dangriga, is a small Belizean-style vacation property with six private beach cabanas. Half Moon Caye is an island and natural monument of Belize located at the South East corner of the Lighthouse Reef Atoll. Another choice is Goff’s Caye, a small island off the shore of Belize City in the central region of the Belize Barrier Reef. Certainly, we couldn’t miss this famous island. Also known as “La Isla Bonita”, Ambergris Caye is the largest island of Belize. Caye Caulker:
Roughly five miles long, the focal point of this destination is the beautiful Caribbean Sea.
International Sources
Birds Are Vanishing From North America The skies are emptying out.
The number of birds in the United States and Canada has fallen by 29 percent since 1970, scientists reported on Thursday. There are 2.9 billion fewer birds taking wing now than there were 50 years ago.
The analysis, published in the journal Science, is the most exhaustive and ambitious attempt yet to learn what is happening to avian populations. The results have shocked researchers and conservation organizations.
Owensboro man reportedly arrested in Belize by police An Owensboro man released on bail in a child sexual abuse case was apprehended in Central America on Thursday, according to a Belize TV station.
Lad Duane Ottofy, 60, of Owensboro, was detained in Belize after a special branch of the Belize Police Department searched an apartment, News 5 Live reported. The apartment in which he was found belongs to Belize senator Juliet Thimbriel, Breaking Belize News reported.
NBZ Live, another Belize TV outlet, reported Ottofy will be held in the country for 48 hours before being handed over to U.S. authorities.
Hundreds of Marines Are Headed to Central, South America as Amphib Changes Homeports About 200 Marines and sailors will train with partners in Central and South America as the amphibious assault ship Wasp makes its way to its new homeport in Virginia.
Members of the California-based 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit will spend October in the U.S. Southern Command area of operations, forming Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Wasp as the amphib makes its way from Japan to the East Coast.
Every year during hurricane season, the Marine Corps also sends a land-based special-purpose unit to Central America. Those Marines train with partners in Honduras, Guatemala, Belize and El Salvador, and remain on standby to assist if a natural disaster strikes.
Cahal Pech Village Resort, Belize, 3min. Cahal Pech Village Resort is the ideal Belize all inclusive resort in the Cayo District. The resort is perfect for honeymooners, families, and adventure travelers.
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.
The San Pedro Sun
Caye International Bank Named Best Offshore Private Bank in Latin America for 2019 After Caye International Bank was named the Most Outstanding Offshore Bank in Central America in 2018, Wealth and Finance International has now ranked it as the Best Offshore Private Bank in Latin America in 2019 for the first time. This new award highlights this innovative financial institution's exceptional performance in the competitive Latin American marketplace. Wealth and Finance International made the decision based on the bank's consistently excellent approach to the services and products it provides.
2019 PLB Opening Season first round comes to an end: San Pedro Pirates draw 2-2 against Wagiya Sporting Club For their last match in the first round of Premiere League of Belize (PLB) 2019 Opening Season, the San Pedro Pirates traveled to Dangriga Town, Stann Creek District to face Wagiya Sporting Club. A strongly defended match saw both teams pushing for victory, but they had to settle for a 2-2 draw. For their first match in the second round of PLB’s 2019 Opening Season, San Pedro Pirates will be playing against Belmopan Bandits on Saturday, September 21st. The match is scheduled to begin at 8PM at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium in Belmopan City. Any person that is interested in accompanying the Pirates as a fan can call 608-6396 for more information.
2019 Kids in Action continue to learn about the environment and ecosystems of Ambergris Caye Every Saturday for the past month, 2019 Kids in Action (KIA) have been participating in educational trips, learning the importance of protecting and preserving the environment and marine life of Ambergris Caye. On Saturday, September 14th, the KIA children had the opportunity to explore and learn about the Mexico Rocks Marine Reserve, located inside the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. At 1PM KIA members met at Belize Diving Adventures Dive Shop for a short briefing with their instructor Brittney Garbutt, and after that headed on a boat to Mexico Rocks Marine Reserve.
Caye Caulker Stingrays capture basketball championship on Ambergris Caye After weeks of a local basketball tournament action, the Caye Caulker Stingrays have emerged victorious, taking home the coveted first-place trophy and $2,500 cash prize after defeating Ambergris Caye’s Jaguar’s Temple Team on Sunday, September 15th. The tournament, organized by the San Pedro Basketball Association (SPBA), saw seven teams competing against each other every weekend since May at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium. The participating teams included Jaguar’s Temple Club, Caye Caulker Stingrays, Truck Stop Ballerz, Premiumside, Tuff E Nuff, Dorado Boy’s, and Tropic Air Hot Start.
Various Belizean Sources
Signs obstructing view of traffic must be removed Due to many accidents happening because of these signs, the San Pedro Town Council and the San Pedro Traffic Department are forced to take action to further avoid or prevent any more accidents from occurring.
Effective immediately, the San Pedro Town Council and the San Pedro Traffic Department hereby advises anyone that owns a sign that is on public property which is obstructing the view of ondgoing traffic will be removed and can be picked up at the SPTC Barracks in the San Pablo area.
Paint N Splash See you this week at from 2-4pm Thursday to paint a rendition of this gorgeous painting done my Daniel Tzul!
Presentation of Credentials oday, September 18th, two ambassadors and a high commissioner presented their credentials to the Governor General H.E. Sir Colville Young at the Belize House in Belmopan.
H.E. Mr. Yang Hyung II, Ambassador of the Republic of South Korea; H.E. Mr. Cosmas Cheppy Tripraksoso Wartono, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia; and H.E. Dr. Ngosa Simbyakula, SC, High Commissioner of the Republic of Zambia to Belize; all presented their letters of credence to the Governor General. They each expressed on behalf of their respective countries well wishes to Belize on the 38th anniversary of the country’s independence. They each conveyed their countries’ intentions to continue to strengthen diplomatic relations with Belize.
Caye Caulker Village Council update This week the Caye Caulker Village Council put out some additional signs.We ask the community to please adhere to the signs. We ask specifically for the taxis to stop cluttering the baggage pick up area of the water taxi, if you can't comply out traffic officer will be force to fine you. A few stop signs were also put out. Our head foreman,Tigga, is busy touching up the streets before this weekends parade. Josanie Joseph and Steven Arnold were awarded employees of the month for their outstanding performances. Fumigation of homes was also carried out for the Bahia Area.
Save the Seas Belize On September 14th, Oceana Belize partnered with Save the Seas Belize, Department of Youth Services and the SJCJC GECO Club to clean-up coastal areas in Belize City.
Click to check out the stats from last weekend's successful cleanup effort!
Channel 7
60 Million In Cocaine - Vaporized!
Today saw the end of a saga that began at an illegal airstrip on the Coastal road. On the 9th of September just after midnight police lay in wait as a drug plane carrying 41 bales with 1,210 parcels of cocaine landed, and two vehicles arrived to pick up the incoming narco-cargo.
Police opened fire and a shootout ensued. Eventually 8 foreigners were arrested and charged, and the cocaine was confiscated and rushed to the Raccoon Street station for secure storage.
This morning, 9 days later, it was unpacked and taken to a secret location for destruction. Cherisse Halsall reports from the road.
Reynaldo Verde's Attorney Disputes Charges
Belize's Deputy Tax Service Director, 46 year old Reynaldo Verde remains in a federal holding facility in the USA. The FBI says he is facing charges for his alleged interference with commerce by means of extortion and attempted extortion.
But, up until now, no one knew for sure what he was detained for. Tonight though, more is known after we spoke to his Florida based attorney, Tyler Trumbach.
Trumbach confirmed that Verde is at the Northern Neck Regional Jail in Warsaw, Virginia - and is being held for a month before transfer to the southern District of Florida where he will be tried. The charges stem from an allegation made by principals of a real estate development in Corozal called Punta Allegre.
Corporal Complains Of Clash With Castro's
Minister of State Edmond Castro and his cyclist son Jahfari Castro are the subject of public controversy again tonight. This time, a police Corporal has made a report accusing father and son of assaulting him and cursing him out.
It happened on Sunday - near the end of the Leslie's Cycling criterium - which is held in downtown Belize City on Albert and Regent Streets. According to reports, Jahfari got a flat tyre late in the race. Under those circumstances, the rider has to re-enter the race and try to chase down the other riders - virtually assuring a poor finish.
Seems Castro was unhappy with the on the spot ruling by cycling officials and he protested it by sitting on his bike in the middle of Regent Street while the other riders were approaching and whizzing past.
Suspects Held For Adamir
Two suspects have reportedly been detained for the murder of 19 year old Adamir Choc. 7 News was told by a reliable source that one of the suspects gave a confession earlier today. We'll see how this develops in the next few days.
Teenager Tumbles From Pan To Pavement To Death
19-year-old Joeshee Chan died this morning when he fell from the pan of a pick up truck.
It happened at about 8:00 this morning. 22-year-old Alexi Chavaria was driving a black 1999 Ford Ranger pickup, towing a trailer on the Philip Goldson Highway, from the direction of Libertad Village towards Orange Walk. He was accompanied by Chan who was seated in the pan of the pick up.
Family Says Shooting Victim Needs Blood
Last night, we shared breaking news about the city shooting of 31-year-old Joseph Rowland. Tonight, we have a few more details.
It happened at around 6:30 when Rowland, a mechanic from Pelican Street, and 40-year-old Slade Small were standing in front of Rowland's home. Small went there to pick up a generator that Rowland had only just finished repairing for him. While the two were discussing the generator and its repairs, a vehicle drove past Rowland's residence, and a man then shoved a gun out the window and opened fire on the two of them. Only Rowland was injured, and the bullet injured him to the right buttocks.
High Speed Takedown For Hacksaw Blade Shoplifter
Today a shoplifter got much more than he bargained for when he took a box of hacksaw blades from Benny's Hardware on the Northern Highway.
A businessman saw that the shoplifter was running from a security guard and sprang into action - what happened next looks like it came out of an episode of the television show Cops. Jules Vasquez reviewed the security video:
Keep your eye on the black pickup truck as it drives through the roundabout in the left lane.
Tourist Drowns While Snorkeling 63-year-old Sandra Corbin Keiser, an American National of Texas drowned today off the course of Rendezvous Caye, in the Stann Creek District.
She had been on a mid morning snorkeling tour along with about a dozen other tourists when she suddenly complained that she had swallowed water. She was taken out of the water; however moments later she was seen foaming from her mouth and fell unconscious. CPR was administered but she was unresponsive. The body of Sandra Corbin Keiser was transported to the KHMH where she was pronounced dead on arrival.
The Chronicle of the Many-Faced Flag 3 weeks ago, we took you to the launch of the fully standardized Belize National Flag. The idea is to - once and for all - settle the colours and all the design details of the flag - so that all these flags with yellow men can come out of circulation.
But just what do we know about how and why the flag has evolved to what it is today? Well, NICH has been digging into the historical archives of Belize, the Caribbean, and the UK to track how exactly it has changed over the last 200 years. Nigel Encalada, the Director of the Institute of Social and Cultural Research, hosted a public lecture on the flag last night at the Bliss Center for the Performing Arts.
Taiwanese Troupe Tours They are a very famous dance group in Taiwan and have toured all over the world but this is the first time in Belize: The Diabolo Dance Theatre troupe is here for a special one night only show at the Bliss. Now, Diabolo which is spelled D-I-A_B-O-L-O is a toy, sort of like a yo-yo - and the dancers masterfully juggle and do all kinds of impressive moves with the diabolo but with a classy and refined finish. The show started at 7:00 but we stopped by for rehearsals this afternoon and here is a snippet of the show.
The Price Century
On Saturday, Belizeans will celebrate the 38th anniversary of our country's Independence. And, if he was still alive, National Hero George Price, the man credited with leading the country to our Independence, would have celebrated birthday number 100 earlier this year.
So, in observance of his importance as the Father of the Nation, the student body of Saint John's College, his alma mater, has created an art exhibit to pay its respects. They've put together photographs and texts from some of his most well-known speeches. Also, over 200 students each took the same photograph of Price's likeness, and they've put their personal artistic touch on it, which has now been organized into one big mural.
Papa San "Preacha-man" Jamaican dancehall gospel artist Papa San is in Belize! He arrived this morning and is getting ready for his big concert on Friday night. This afternoon Papa San told us more about the visions for this grand celebration.
Ay Maestro! A teacher may have started his September celebrations a little too soon! Last night at around 6:30 security at St. Andrews school in San Ignacio heard rustling in one of the classrooms. Expecting to find burglars on the prowl, instead they found this guy, a teacher, sprawled out on the floor.
Collective Gone Again!
The Garifuna Collective has started the third leg of its world tour - in time for the release of its new album, ABAN, which came out three days ago.
Last month the band performed at prestigious festivals in North and South America, from the Calgary Folk Fest, to a performance in Bogota on the main stage of Colombia Al Parque, the largest free outdoor festival in Colombia.
Channel 5
Drug Destruction, 41 Bales of Cocaine Go Up In Smoke As much as sixty million dollars worth of cocaine went up in billowing smoke today. The drugs contained in more than forty parcels were ceased by the police in one [...]
Persons Detained for the Murder of Adamir Choc Investigations into the murdered young woman from the San Martin area of Belmopan, Adamir Choc, have produced a possible break in the case. There is word that three persons are [...]
Drive-by Shooting Leaves One Man Injured Thirty-one-year-old Joseph Rowland was shot in the buttocks last night. It happened at Rowland’s residence on Pelican Street, Belize City. Police say that Rowland was with a customer for whom [...]
Caught on Video: Suspected Robber Pursued and Captured An alleged robber or would-be robber is detained. It all played out in the streets of the city and captured on video. The incident is said to have happened this [...]
Cop Claims He Was Assaulted by Minister Castro and His Son There is an allegation tonight against a minister and his son by a police corporal. The corporal, Christopher Smith, who believes he was doing his duty, allegedly came under attack [...]
Is Gapi In or Out in OW North? The United Democratic Party is yet to name a new candidate to fill the void in the Orange Walk North constituency, following the abrupt resignation of Standard Bearer Homero Novelo [...]
U.D.P. Chairman Responds to Criticism Following Crude Remarks Outspoken U.D.P. Chairman Alberto August is under fire for what many believe was an insensitive remark made following the murder of nineteen-year-old Adamir Choc. The comment came in a recent [...]
An Update on I.C.J. Developments Things have been fairly quiet since the historic decision, following a referendum on May eighth, to proceed to the International Court of Justice to settle the longstanding territorial dispute between [...]
Tourist Dies During Snorkeling Tour at Rendezvous Caye A snorkeling tour goes wrong at Rendezvous Caye this morning as an elderly tourist lost her life. According to reports, thirteen tourists were on a snorkeling trip at the caye [...]
#GeorgePrice@100 Exhibit Launched At Saint John’s College Art Center this afternoon, an exhibit was launched to honour the father of the nation, George Price. Price led the country to Independence and would have [...]
Belizeans to Enjoy 2 Days Off for the Independence Celebration There is clarity as to the holidays in observance of Independence Day. Government has announced that Saturday, September twenty-first is a public and bank holiday. Independence Day is normally observed [...]
Over 1,900 Clinical Confirmed Cases of Dengue in Belize The number of confirmed dengue cases in the region continues to grow and in Belize, since the start of the year, there are currently one thousand nine hundred plus clinically [...]
A Multi-Stakeholder Approach to Address Dengue But with the rains starting and school in session, the Ministry of Health is in discussion with other ministries and stakeholders to ensure that the population that is being affected [...]
National Financial Inclusion Strategy Launched A four-year plan on financial inclusion for the country was launched earlier this week with support from the World Bank Group. The plan defines and identifies opportunities so that persons [...]
Citrus Industry to be Affected by Devastating Drought In July, News Five reported on the constant decline in production in the citrus industry. Several factors such as a citrus disease and less investment influenced the decline and tonight drought [...]
Effective Microorganisms Can Help Heal the New River As the Department of the Environment continues to implement measures and monitor the progress of the New River for over a week, there is information emerging about one measure that [...]
The Reporter
Security Camera Footage Shows Chase Of Shoplifters At Benny’s These days everything is on camera, and especially the shopping malls and main stores like Benny’s, in-fact even the streets and roads and parking lots are covered with 24/7 security cameras. So it’s very likely that if you go and shoplift at these stores, – “IT WILL BE ON CAMERA !”
Tourist Died While Snorkeling At Rendezvous Caye The Reporter has confirmed the identity of the tourist who drowned while snorkeling off Rendezvous Caye this morning. Police were called out to the Tourist Village just before 1:00pm today where they were told that around 11:15am Texas resident Sandra Corbin Keiser, 63, complained that she had swallowed water while on a tour with twelve other tourists.
LOVE FM
Police destroy over 1,300 kilograms of cocaine
Over one thousand two hundred parcels of cocaine were destroyed today by the police. Members of the different media houses tagged along as witnesses. Love News Reporter Courtney Menzies was part of that group, and has the details of the drug destruction.
Vehicle with businessman stopped and searched
While the destruction of the drugs went without incident there was a instance on the way to the undisclosed location where tensions escalated. A white Dodge Ram pickup truck was aggressively trying to overtake the police vehicles. In order to ensure the safety of everyone involved, the vehicle was promptly stopped and searched. It was …
NARCIE assists children with disabilities to learn
Every child deserves the opportunity to learn and grow in life. However, the ability to do so can be a challenge for a child with some form of disability. Nevertheless, the Ministry of Education has made room for children with disabilities as explained by Erlett Thomas, the Manager of the National Resource Centre for Inclusive …
More troubles at the Southern Regional Hospital?
A 25-year-old woman of Seine Bight Village, Stann Creek District, is listed as critical and has been diagnosed with dengue. The woman was taken into the Southern Regional Hospital at about two o’clock this morning after she was throwing up blood and running a high fever. Shortly after, she was told that they cannot care …
Eleven students travel to the US for the 2019 Youth Ambassador Program The Love Foundation is capitalizing on an opportunity to work with Georgetown University, in Washington DC, United States. Yesterday, a delegation of eleven students and one mentor flew out as part of the Youth Ambassador Program. Executive Director of the Love Foundation, Deborah Sewell, explained that this opportunity will see the secondary students exposed to …
Letter to the Editor: The Battle is not over
By David N Ruiz. Dear Editor:
The maxim “como llamarada de tusa” among the folks in Benque Viejo captures the essence of novelty. Indeed, when a dried corn husk is lit, it flares up and in a split second dies away […]
Do you know the Garifuna History? One of the most exciting topics we have learned about revolves around the Garifuna people. The history begins almost 400 years ago, making it so vibrant, expansive, and impressive. Garifuna history is one filled with migration, intermarriage, and lots of culture. It is an integral part of Belize’s history.
The first bit of history regarding the Garifuna people states that ancestors migrated way before the arrival of the Europeans. The Arawak Indians migrated from Venezuela, Surinam, and Guyana - they settled in the Greater Antilles in the Caribbean.
International Sources
10 unmissable Belizean food experiences Belize is a treat for food-obsessed travellers. Here’s our suggested tour for the taste buds.
Every mealtime is a special occasion in Belize. Bordered on the north by Mexico, to the south-west by Guatemala, and to the east by the Caribbean Sea, Belize’s hotchpotch of culinary influences – Garifuna, Creole, Indian, Mayan, European – makes for a fabulously varied menu. For the epi-curious, these ten experiences are not to be missed.
San Pedro in Ambergris Caye is one of Belize’s culinary hotspots, and the best way to get your bearings in Belizean cuisine is to take a food tour. Belize Food Tours offer a brilliant evening tour where you’ll feast on decadent fry jacks, mouthwatering salbutes and that Belizean home-cooked staple, rice and beans.
Why Belize should be next on your travel bucket list For action-craving travellers, Belize offers a thrilling roster of adrenalin-spiking activities. Here’s why it should be your next big adventure.
At around the size of Wales, Belize is petite compared to its behemoth neighbours, bordered on the north by Mexico, to the south-west by Guatemala, and the east by the Caribbean Sea. But Belize’s unique geographical position makes it a perfectly petite destination for adventure-seeking travellers who want to pack a lot into their break, delivering beaches, rainforest and Mayan ruins all in close proximity.
The beach-based idylls of Placencia, Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker offer water-loving adventure seekers world-class diving opportunities such as the Great Blue Hole and Shark Alley, alongside more serene pursuits such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and sunset cruises.
Event celebrates independence of Latin American countries In observance of nine Latin American countries gaining independence over time, the Campus Events + Entertainment Mexican American Culture Committee and Latino Studies hosted Celebración de Independencias, a free event with performances from local artists, food and activities representing different Latin cultures.
Flags of Belize, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico and Nicaragua lined the walls of the William C. Powers, Jr. Student Activity Center Ballroom. In the center of the room, the committee served tamales and pupusas, but there was a catch — students had to complete at least three diverse activities before grabbing any food. Those activities, one in each corner of the room, were Lotería, a game similar to bingo, Kahoot, face painting and a photo booth.
Belize Interlocking "Lego blocks", 5min. Belize Interlocking Pavers & Blocks. Cayo Tour Guide and dad who spends too much time playing video games Cruz E. Cambranes reviews the blocks you can use in your garden bed.
Flying to Belize from Miami, 18min. Belize is a former British Colony, the only English speaking Central American country, and a hidden gem of a tourism destination.
Placencia Belize, 5min. In this video I explore Placencia. Placencia is a chill spot 185 km or 115 miles from Belize City. I would say the beaches are better here compared to Caye Caulker and San Pedro. It was low season when I went so it didn't seem like much was going on. Placencia is becoming a hot spot for retires and expats.
Meet Jitka and Lina - Development Instructors in Belize, 11min. The Fighting Shoulder to Shoulder with The Poor program includes intensive training i St. Vincent at Richmond Vale Academy before traveling to Belize and carry out a six months service period with Humana People to People.
Cotton Tree Lodge : Belize, 2min. Exploring of the grounds of the Cotton Tree Lodge in Punta Gorda, Belize. Staying in a bungalow above the Moho River, a truly unique way to stay in the jungle!!
Fly Fishing Permit in Belize, 7min. Ken Tanaka is back on the water! This time fly fishing for Permit in Belize at Tarpon Caye Lodge.
This was my second time at Tarpon Caye Lodge and fly fishing in Belize. I can't say enough about this fishery. It is the best Permit fishery in the world without a doubt. Hundreds of shots per week. You can even see hundreds of Permit per day! If you're looking to land your first Permit on the fly than look no further. Tarpon Caye Lodge in Belize is your place!
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.
The San Pedro Sun
Marvin Antonio Mendoza joins the list of missing persons in San Pedro Town San Mateo resident and Honduran national 32-year-old Marvin Antonio Mendoza has been declared missing since he left home for work on September 9th. A formal report was made to police on September 15th, and relatives are seeking the public’s assistance in locating him. Mendoza is described to be 5 feet 2 inches tall, has a tattoo with the word ‘DRAGON’ on his right forearm and another one with the word ‘GLORIA’ on his left forearm. He has a scar on his right forearm as well. He was last seen wearing a red and white sleeveless t-shirt, khaki Dickies ¾-length pants and white Jordan brand slippers. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to call the nearest police station.
Noche Centro Americana celebrates San Pedro Town’s Central American and Mexican neighbors Over the years, San Pedro Town has become the home of many migrants from various Central American countries, including Mexico. In recognizing their contribution to the island community, Noche Centro Americana once again observed the Independence Celebrations for five Central American countries (Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica) and Mexico on Saturday, September 14th. The event included a colourful parade through the streets of San Pedro and a program with formalities and cultural activities at the Honourable Louis Sylvestre Sporting Complex.
DOE to evaluate damages after catamaran runs aground on the reef The Department of Environment (DOE) is currently in the process of removing a 32-foot catamaran vessel which ran into the reef on Friday, September 13th with eight passengers on board. No one was injured, and the eight passengers, including the captain, were safely rescued. The vessel remained on the reef over the weekend in an area known as Coral Gardens between Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye. Once the boat is removed, the DOE will conduct an assessment to determine the extent of damages to the reef and if anyone will be held liable for the incident.
SPFD focuses on enforcing safety measures in construction projects The construction industry on Ambergris Caye is considered a reflection of the growth of the tourism industry with the development of building projects or the expansion of existing establishments across the island. It is required by law that these constructions/expansions adhere to safety building regulations, which range from environmental concerns to health and even fire. When clearing new projects on the island from becoming a fire hazard, the San Pedro Fire Department (SPFD) has been busy trying to get everyone to abide by their regulations. As a result, some of their precautionary interventions have ended up at the San Pedro Magistrate Court.
The island’s sixth blood drive of the year nets 21 pints! The Belize Red Cross San Pedro Branch (BRCSPB) conducted their sixth blood drive of the year at the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II on Saturday, September 14th. From 9AM to 3PM, potential donors made their way to the polyclinic where personnel from the Belize Blood Bank, along with volunteers from the BRCSPB welcomed them. Volunteers also held a dollar drive in the downtown area, collecting $547.50 in cash. During this latest blood drive, organizers managed to collect a total of 21 pints of blood.
Ambergris Today
Safeguard Your Heart by Seleni Perez - My mom has an old recycled box and in it she holds treasured, pictures, notes, documents and letters that hold her best kept memories stored. More than once I have asked her to have me keep it or at least one thing from it. However, she would only allow my sister and me to go through the box and once in a while she will go over it and revisit the stories these collections would hold.
As a child I would never get enough, persistently asking her to pass it down to me and would be so disappointed when she would refuse. Now as a grownup, I have come to realize why she would do this. It is not that she is trying to keep it away from us but rather on safeguarding the evidence of beautiful moments of her youths.
Missing Person: Marvin Antonio Mendoza Kindly be on the lookout for Marvin Antonio Mendoza, 32-year-old, Honduran of San Mateo area, San Pedro Town, he was reported missing on Sunday, September 15, 2019, and reported last since on Monday, September 9, 2019, when he went to his place of employment.
Mendoza is about 5feet 2inches in height, medium built and weighs about 140 lbs, he has black hair and a low haircut, and brown eyes.
Panamanian offshore expert says offshore banking is dead in Belize Local news media reports that the Caporaso & Partners Law Office in Panama, which specializes in offshore and financial legal matters and represents a number of European depositors who claim they are unable to recover their money from the now defunct Choice Bank, published a scathing article claiming Belize’s offshore banking sector is dead due to the ongoing situation with Choice and the fallout from the Sanctuary Bay real estate fraud.
"No one will trust a bank in Belize anymore, after what happened,” Giovanni Caporaso Gottlieb, the firm’s founder said. The firm claims that up to now, Choice has only approved the reimbursment of 53 percent of the deposits declared in the accounts, however, it hasn’t completed all payments.
San Pedro 38th Independence Eve celebrations Block Party The San Pedro Town Council and Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr. Invite you to Belize's 38th Independence Eve celebrations Block Party on Friday, September 20th at the Hon. Louis Sylvestre Sports Complex. Gates open at 6:00 p.m.
We have entertainment by DJ Debbie Spain, Titans Mas Band, Dj Diablillo chetumal and Olatunji Yearwood from Trinidad & Tobago.
There will be lots to eat and drink in our BLOCK PARTY section, and of course a SPECTACULAR FIREWORKS DISPLAY at midnight along with the 21 Gun Salute by the Belize Coast Guard.
Come one, come all! Bring the entire family!
38th Independence Day Jump Up Parade Want to be part of the Parade? Have a group or a float? SIGN UP NOW! at the San Pedro Town Council offices or by calling 226-2198!
Saturday (Independence Day) is a public and bank holiday The official government calendar lists Monday, September 23, 2019 as the public and bank holiday in lieu of Independence Day, but after public outcry Saturday Sept. 21 has also been declared a national holiday.
Monthly Weather Summary, August 2019 Climatologically speaking, August is known for its two weeks dry spell known locally as the "maga season". As a result, a marked drop in rainfall can be seen around August when looking at the annual rainfall distribution for the country. Weather systems that typically affect Belize during the month of August are Tropical Waves (TWs), Tropical Upper Tropospheric Troughs (TUTTs) and an occasional Tropical Cyclone (TCs) (tropical depression, tropical storm or hurricane).
Abnormally dry conditions continued in August 2019 with rainfall being below normal across most of the country. The first day of the month started off relatively dry with showers and thunderstorms being generally isolated.
Launched of the Belize's Historical Railway System Exhibit A terrific morning as we launched the Belize's Historical Railway System Exhibit. A wealth of historical information was shared with attendees by Mr. Giovanni Pinelo of the Institute for Social & Cultural Research. As well, artifacts which have been donated by Mr. Alan Baker and Mr. James Lindsay enriched the experience. We wish to thank both Mr. Pinelo for his keynote address and Mr. Michael Bradley of the Belize National Library Service and Information Service for documenting the event. Thank you to Adela Pederson, chair-lady of To'one Masehualoon for the vote of thanks. Thank you to our community members and historians who came out in support. And of course a gracious thank you to the Standard 5 & 6 students and educators of St. Paul's Anglican School! We invite you to visit the House of Culture and view the exhibit which is now on display through to June 2020.
Corozal Community Cleanup Dengue Irradication Campaign. As part of the September Celebrations activity, the Corozal Town Council will be conducting a Clean up Campaign in the Rainbow Town, Altamira and Chula vista area of Corozal Town in observation of National Service Day. This event will start at 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 19th. We ask for your cooperation in assisting our sanitation workers and students who will participating in this exercise. Other areas of town have been programmed, dates will be published as we move into the other areas of town. We thank you for your cooperation.
Mercury in Fish from the Macal River and Other Rivers The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Department of Environment and the Belize Electric Company Limited (BECOL), has completed another assessment of mercury levels in fishes from the Macal, Mopan, Belize, Rio Grande, and New rivers. The following advisory is being issued to guide the public on the safe amounts of fish that can be eaten to avoid ill effects of potential mercury exposure.
Macal River Fish
Analysis from this year’s mercury testing indicated that only 3 of 18 fish species tested had mercury levels above the recommended dose of 0.5 mg/kg. These were Botasi and Cichlid from upstream Vaca Dam and Bay Snook from the Cristo Rey village area along the Macal River in the Cayo District.
Decrease in the Pump Price of Premium Gasoline, Regular Gasoline and Diesel Oil Effective September 18, 2019 The Ministry of Finance announces that on Wednesday, September 18, 2019, the pump price of three fuel products will decrease as follows:
Premium gasoline will decrease by 47 cents from $11.31 to $10.84
Regular gasoline will decrease by 19 cents from $10.12 to $9.93
Diesel oil will decrease by 17 cents from $10.04 to $9.87
The price of kerosene will remain unchanged at $7.37 per gallon.
Corozal Elderly Man Found 76 year old Humberto "Beto" Alcoser, a resident of Chula Vista, Corozal Town, has been found alive and is doing good. Alcoser was last seen on September 15, when he left home for an unknown destination. The family wishes to extend its gratitude to everyone who assisted in locating him.
Belize River Cleanup 2019 The date is set for the National Coastal and River Cleanup. September 28th, and it starts at 8:00am by the Macal River. Contact the local Oceana rep for more information.
"September 28th will be the National Coastal and River(side) Clean Up. Come on out to help clean the riverside of the Macal and surrounding areas! if interested kindly DM me or take a look at the flyer and contact your nearest Oceana Field Rep. We also sign off on Community Service Hours for those who need it!
(Bags, gloves and water will be provided but we're also accepting any donations for these too).
This is done worldwide and was created by Ocean Conservancy not only will trash be picked up but it will also be recorded so that we have a snapshot of the world's trash problem as it affects our oceans and rivers."
Ascenthium at Bluffs on Independence Day Ascenthium will be performing at The Bluffs on this Independence Day! Saturday's going to be a fun night at The Bluffs.
Channel 7
Sedi Says Let Debt Forgiveness Flow
Joshua Perdomo - the Cabinet Secretary Carlos Perdomo's son has become a nationally known name - and for all the wrong reasons. As has been widely reported, the Cabinet Secretary's son had his 40 thousand dollar debt with the government written off by Parliament.
The write off motion passed by the house said that he could not be found - and it had Cabinet's approval.
Today, senior Cabinet member Wilfred Elrington defended the write-off, and a recent write-off of land tax debts - he said he wishes there would be more like that:
Gapi Making A Comeback? Elrington also had some surprising remarks about UDP Orange Walk North Representative Gaspar Vega. It is widely accepted that he will not seek another term in office - but, when the current Orange Walk North Standard Bearer Homero Novelo stepped aside 8 days ago - news emerged of Vega's renewed interest in politics.
Now, it may only be rumor and speculation, but Elrington said that the Vega he met recently seemed in it to win it:
"Is it your understanding that the Hon. Gaspar Vega intention to run again? He is seen out more publicly now at different events. He was present at the village councils."
Civic Survivor Speaks
Since Friday, the news of the death of two roofers at the Belize Civic Center has been making national headlines.
And while Orlington Stuart and Roque Jimenez died, 4 of their fellow workers survived the fall from the scaffolding, 30ft above the Civic Center's main court.
Those men are Lucas Ortiz, William Savery, Charles Hyde and 20 year old Patrick Canelo. We spoke to Canelo today to ask about his recovery and also whether he believes he's being adequately compensated.
SSB Says OHS Bill Is Needed In attempting to find out whether Delnox Belize is offering adequate compensation to the workers that survived the Civic accident; 7 News reached out to Chandra Nisbet Cansino, the general manager of policy and programs at the Social Security Board.
She wasn't able to comment on the specifics of the case due to the ongoing investigations, however, she spoke at length about how the SSB handles workplace injuries and its full support for the passing of the Occupational Health and Safety Bill.
Chandra Nisbet Cansino, General Manager , Policy and Programs SSB:
"At this time the investigations are ongoing and we would like to take the opportunity also to remind workers that if they are unable to make a claim due to hospitalization or in this unfortunate instance death..."
BCCI Says OHS Review Ongoing And in more news of how the public sector has responded to the tragic Civic Accidentlast night three statements surrounding the event were issued by the NTUCB, the Ministry of Labor, and the PUP.
The NTUCB in particular claimed in their release that, before this preventable accident they had already sent correspondences to the Chamber of Commerce to get back to the discussion table and address concerns with the OSH Bill.
Tonight The Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry in its own press release reiterated its commitment to the passage of the Occupational Safety and Health Bill.
The Depths of Disputation About Progresso Heights At the top of the newscast, we showed you our interview with Foreign Affairs Minister Wilfred Elrington.
We met him outside the courtroom of Justice Courtney Abel. He's currently presiding over the very strange fight between Elrington and his former business partners, who are the directors of Progresso Heights Limited. For several months now, we've been following the saga of this very bitter commercial dispute between Elrington, who is a shareholder of the real estate company, and the American directors, Lawrence Schneider and his son, Adam.
The Schneider's and their company are suing Elrington because of cautions he lodged, which stopped them from selling over a dozen parcels of land. Basically, Progresso Heights Limited is a real estate company that currently cannot conduct any business in Belize due to these cautions.
Coro Cops Make A Big Weed Bust
On Monday, September 16th, 2019, about 1:00 p.m., Special Branch police were conducting searches on an overgrown lot in Halls layout, Corozal Town when they discovered a .38 special revolver with one .38 live rounds of ammunition and two expended shells in the chamber. The items were labeled and deposited as found property
Later that day at around 4:00 p.m., special branch again was on patrol within the 4 Miles Lagoon area, Santa Elena Border, Corozal District, and they became suspicious of 26 year old Serio Ramon Hall and 24 year old Nestor Alejandro Cowo who were carrying crocus bags on their shoulders.
St. Matthews Man Charged For Robbery in Trinidad, OW
Last night we told you about the sports bar robbery in Trinidad Village, Orange Walk. Well, police have arrested and charged St. Mathews villager 34 year old Francisco Santos for two counts of robbery. He was arraigned in court today.
Making A Modern Media Modality For National Assembly The initiative to get a fully functional and technologically current video switching system installed at the National Assembly continues.
A technical group with representation from major media houses met today at the committee room of the National Assembly to agree on what equipment would be used.
Wilfred Waffles on Next Leader And from the House of Representativesto who will represent the UDP as its next leader.
Today the press asked Wilfred Elrington whether he supports Patrick Faber or John Saldivar and he said he hasn't decided:
"The only race I am involved in is the leadership race for the Pickstock constituency. I have no greater ambition actually."
Can Superman Safeguard His Delegates? And while Wilfred is waffling, Phillip Willoughby has already pitched in his lot with the Saldivar camp. It's a dramatic defection - because he was thought to be all-in with Faber.
And while it was widely speculated that Faber would strike back at Willoughby with the political equivalent of a nuclear warhead, instead he has posted a conciliatory message on Facebook, saying, quote, "Mr Willougby has indicated to the world via his social media that he will not be supporting me in the upcoming leadership convention. This is his right. I appreciate Phillip's honesty, even if it is only just finally coming and I reassure him now that where there is a personal resource of mine or the UDP that he can utilize for his bid in Port Loyola to secure victory for our beloved UDP, it is always available."
Getting More People Into The Banking System Today the Central Bank officially launched what is called the National Financial Inclusion Strategy. The idea is to ensure that everyone has access to useful financial products and services from a bank account to loans and funds transfers among many others. Here is more from the launch and why financial inclusion is a non-negotiable necessity in the 21st Century.
Strange Fruit In Citrus Drought One month ago, we told you how the drought in the north was decimating corn crops.
Well, it has also affected citrus in the south. Nikita Usher form the Chamber switched hats to his day job, which is Chief Administrator at Citrus Products of Belize Limited. He told us the drought has produced smaller oranges:
The Statistical Institute of Belize reports that "in the first 7 months of 2019 Earnings from citrus exports fell substantially by 30 percent or $16.8 million, from $55.8 million in 2018 to $39 million in 2019, due to decreased sales of orange concentrate and orange oil."
Chamber Not Ready to Declare On NGC Monopoly And switching back to his Chamber of Commerce hat, Usher commented on the controversy about the country's new LPG supplier, that's the National Gas Company - a public private partnership that will see to the supply of all LPG products throughout Belize.
BCCI Pres Touches On Banking Industry Usher also commented on the situation with foreign exchange. The last few months of the year create a high volume of imports and increased demand for foreign exchange. Usher commented on it and the banking situation:..
Nikita Usher, President, B.C.C.I.:
"That is becoming not so much of a challenge as yet, but we certainly know that the whift of recent rumors of Scotia, which we don't know that to be certain but that sparked off some issue for some businesses as we speak with now. But I think the crunch will come down as we move down to the December period."
Late Evening City Shooting A man is in a stable condition after being shot an hour ago. IT happened on Pelican Street where 31 year old Joseph Rowland a motorcycle mechanic was shot to the right buttocks. Rowland was standing int front of his house when a vehicle drove by and and opened fire at a friend of his, hitting Rowland.
Fuel Prices Down Across The Board
Hold off on going to the gas station tonight because fuel prices are going down across the board at midnight. The price for premium gasoline, regular gasoline and diesel will decrease as follows:
Premium gasoline will decrease by 47 cents from $11.31 to $10.84
Regular gasoline will decrease by 19 cents from $10.12 to $9.93
Diesel will decrease by 17 cents from $10.04 to $9.87
Mercury In Macal Again
2 weeks ago, we told you about the preliminary results which the Ministry of Health gathered on the mercury levels in fish from the Macal River. Today, the Ministry released those official results.
They say that they collaborated with the Department of Environment and the Belize Electric Company Limited (BECOL) to test the mercury levels in fishes from the Macal, Mopan, Belize, Rio Grande, and New Rivers. They're now making recommendations on the safe amount of fish that the general public should consume so they can avoid the ill effects of potential mercury exposure.
The Latest On The New River And while the Ministry of Health says that fish from the New River in Orange Walk is safe from mercury, you definitely don't want to be eating anything from that river right now. That's because it is polluted, and the environmental authorities are hard at work to try and rehabilitate it.
As we reported yesterday, the Department of Environment has observed some positive changes in the oxygen levels for the river, since they started installing mechanical aerators at strategic locations.
21st and 23rd are Holidays So...September 21st falls on a Saturday - which is when the official ceremonies, the uniform parade and the downtown fest will be held in Belize City. But then, it was not a public and bank holiday. That was on Monday, a public and bank holiday as a replacement for the 21st.
That has led to widespread confusion.
Channel 5
Is Gapi Returning to Electoral Politics in Orange Walk North? Is disgraced U.D.P. politician and former Deputy Prime Minister Gaspar Vega mounting a political comeback ahead of the November 2020 general elections? Over the weekend, Orange Walk North Standard Bearer [...]
U.D.P. OW North Standard Bearer Resigns; Is Gapi Making A Comeback? Dated September ninth, Homero Novelo’s resignation letter is addressed to the U.D.P. Secretary General Pearl Stuart. Novelo tells Stuart, “It has been an enjoyable but though journey from the U.D.P. [...]
Sedi is Undecided on U.D.P. Leadership Candidates The race for the leadership of the United Democratic Party in the months prior to the 2020 general elections is taking shape. Despite talks of a so-called dark horse, Deputy [...]
Teen Killers on the Loose in Garden City A minor, as young as thirteen years old, is believed to have been involved in the double murder of Gruver Delgado and Herman Villadares. The cousins were shot and killed [...]
Final Arguments are Made in Progresso Heights Case This morning in the courtroom of Justice Courtney Abel, the long-drawn-out case against Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington, a shareholder with a twenty percent stake in the embattled Progresso Heights Limited, [...]
Sedi Defends His Interest in Progresso Heights According to Elrington, the submissions were all based on technical arguments in law. Elrington says that while Schneider attempted to speak on behalf of Progresso Heights by way of the [...]
Belize City Man Accused of Sexually Assaulting Elderly Woman An elderly woman is the latest victim of an alleged sexual assault. She was purportedly inappropriately touched and grabbed on her private parts and her breast by a man known [...]
Fuel Prices Down There is a change in fuel prices and this time the costs are seeing a dip as of Wednesday. Premium gasoline sees the biggest decrease of forty-seven cents from eleven [...]
Sedi Sounds Off on Joshua Perdomo Loan Write-off The loan write-off that has been approved for a forty thousand dollar debt that was owed by Joshua Perdomo, son of Cabinet Secretary Carlos Perdomo, to the Government of Belize [...]
“The Death of Belize’s Financial System” Caporaso and Partners Law Office in Panama says that Belize’s offshore banking system is dead. The law firm which specializes in offshore banking says that the recent closure of two [...]
Vessel Removed 4 Days After It Ran Aground on Reef Four days after a catamaran with tourists ran aground on the reef in the coral garden area, north of Caye Caulker Village, the vessel is finally removed. Today, Coral Tours [...]
Who Will Be Charged for Damage to Reef? The vessel is a catamaran that carries out tours within Belize. While it is a Belizean registered company, it is owned by a Colombian national, and the vessel is captained [...]
One Person Charged for Trinidad robberies A Saint Mathews Village resident has been charged for robberies of two bars in Trinidad Village, Orange Walk District, which occurred after nine o’clock on Friday night. While police has [...]
Chamber Breaks Silence on National Gas Company Limited In August, the government tabled and passed the National Liquefied Petroleum Gas Project Bill which essentially establishes a monopoly which then controls the importation and price of butane. The Bureau of [...]
B.C.C.I. Provides Update on Occupational Safety and Health Bill It took the unfortunate and tragic deaths of Roque Jimenez and Orlington Stuart to highlight the urgent need for the passage and implementation of the Occupational Safety and Health Bill. [...]
Expert Says B.S.I. Water Treatment Exceptional The Belize Sugar Industry has responded to a report that the mill is largely at fault for the state of the New River. B.S.I. is refuting any claim that the [...]
Shooting Victim Asks ComPol for a Hand A Punta Gorda resident is claiming he was shot by cops and is making a plea to the Belize Police Department. According to twenty-four-year-old Justin Espat, the incident happened over [...]
7 Persons Displaced by Fire in San Pedro Seven persons have been displaced after an early morning fire on San Pedro gutted the wooden two-storey apartment they called home. Just before six o’clock as Vanina Alpuche and her [...]
Belmopan gunman executes two cousins, 16 and 17 There was a bold, daylight execution of two teenaged cousins that has left residents of the San Martin area of Belmopan in shock and grief. The execution occurred early Saturday morning near a dried-up creek in the San Martin area.
Herman Alexander Valladarez, 16, was shot, along with his 17-year-old cousin and hang-out partner, Gruver Lizandro Delgado.
After witnessing the shooting of his cousin, Delgado tried to run away, but he fell and the gunman caught up with him and shot him in the head at point-blank range.
Adamir Choc, 19, found decomposing On Saturday, September 7, 19-year-old Adamir Choc went to E&L’s Sports Bar in Belmopan, along with some friends. Surveillance video footage from the club reportedly shows Choc getting into a vehicle and that was the last time she was seen alive.
Reportedly, Choc’s friends had gotten into an altercation with another woman and they did not tell her that they were leaving the club. Video footage from the club showed Choc looking around as if she was trying to locate the three friends with whom she went to the club.
2 die in Civic Center scaffolding accident At about 10:30 this morning, a platform on a scaffold that was 50 feet above the basketball court and bleachers in the Belize City Civic Center collapsed, and six men who were standing on the scaffold as they worked on the ceiling of the Civic Center came crashing to the concrete floor below.
Jesus Contreras, a worker who saw the tragedy unfold in front of him, said that the scene was horrific. He saw an old man known as Roque fall head-first to the floor; which smashed his skull and hurled brain tissue onto the floor, while Orlington Earl Stuart fell on his shoulder first and then hit a railing.
Roberto Nah, 14, missing from San Pedro Roberto Nah, 14, a student, has been reported missing since Wednesday, September 11, at about 12:30 p.m. when he left home for an unknown destination. Since then, he has not been seen or heard from, and his whereabouts remain unknown.
Police and his family are seeking public assistance to find Roberto. Anyone who sees him or has information that could be of assistance in finding him is urged to contact the nearest police station or San Pedro police at 206-2022, or call 911, or 0800- 922- TIPS.
BSI says “It ain’t me!” After many months of criticism that it was one of the main players that caused the New River to become dangerously polluted, Belize Sugar Industries (BSI) has come forth with a statement that it is not responsible for the pollution of the river, in which fish by the thousands, as well as turtles, birds and other aquatic life, including even crocodiles, have perished.
Studies by some environmentalists reveal that some parts of the river have become so “dead” that there is no life in it, or on its banks.
Present and former Belize City mayors share the stage for opening new City Hall building Opening ceremonies were held this evening for the refurbished City Hall building on which work had started during the United Democratic Party term of Mayor Darrell Bradley, and which has been completed under the stewardship of People’s United Party mayor, Bernard Wagner.
The highlight of the opening ceremony, therefore, was the presence of the former and present Belize City mayors sharing the stage for the opening of the multimillion-dollar building, located on Regent Street, at the foot of the Swing Bridge that will serve as the City Council’s City Hall.
Caye Caulker Community Sailing Club hosts BzSA 4th Ranking Regatta of 2019 The Belize Sailing Association (BzSA) held its fourth Ranking Regatta of the year for the Optimist and Laser classes in Caye Caulker, August 10-11, 2019, hosted by the Caye Caulker Community Sailing Club (CCCSC). The regatta was attended by competitors from Corozal, Ladyville, Caye Caulker and Gales Point. This was Caye Caulker Community Sailing Club’s 2nd time as host.
The event was a great success, beginning with barge transportation of boats and trucking to the venue, full media coverage by “The Voice of Caye Caulker” on and off the water, great sportsmanship and, of course, wonderful sailing. The welcoming back of two of Caye Caulker’s past Optimist sailors, namely Glenford Barrera and Malaki Jones, was a big positive.
NEBL prepares for 2020 season with rule change The National Elite Basketball League (NEBL) continues to prepare for its upcoming season, which is slated to commence on Saturday, January 18, 2020. There is a significant rule change that will come into effect in the upcoming season, where the Belizean American label has been removed. All Belizean players are treated with the same conditions, and there are no restrictions on the number of Belizean American players per team.
Stann Creek F.A. 1st Division Cup 2019 Week 3 results Week 3 games in the Stann Creek Football Association (SCFA) First Division Cup 2019 were played on Friday night at the Carl Ramos Stadium.
In the opener, South Side Warriors won, 2-1, over Elijio Beni DYS FC with goals from Darnae Garcia (19’) and David Solazo (64’), while Alvin Lino (57’) scored for Elijio Beni DYS.
Belmopan F.A. 2nd Division Tournament weekend results The Belmopan Football Association (BFA) Second Division Tournament 2019 continued over the weekend with games on Friday night and Sunday afternoon at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium.
In the opener on Friday night, Arizona FC and Ramon United played to a 0-0 draw. And in the nightcap, Spanish Boys dropped BMP Compre Elite FC, 4-2, with goals from Victor Saavedra (30’ & 67’), Fernando Barrera (34’) and Jose Rodesno (83’); while BMP Compre got a goal each from Rafael Franklin (51’) and Frybin Paguada (86’).
LPG deal —another poor GoB decision Dr. Gilbert Canton probably deserves to be rewarded for his bright idea to have Belizean business folk and the government wrest control of the LPG (Liquid Petroleum Gas) market from foreign hands, especially if it leads to Belizeans paying less for the commodity. But, there are no such guarantees.
Dr. Canton, the manager of the new National Gas Company Limited (NGCL), has said (to Channel Five) that while he was the CEO at BNE (Belize Natural Energy), they made attempts to get into the LPG business, but the industry was monopolized by foreign interests, and this allowed those interests such control that they could manipulate wholesale prices. It is not impossible that he didn’t press the case while at BNE because he saw the possibilities for himself a little down the road.
Thank you, Brother Colin Hyde Thank you, Brother Colin Hyde, for giving this, your humble servant, a space in several of your articles. I appreciate it very much. It has been a long time since we had our debates on said Battle of St. George’s Caye. Nevertheless, up to now, no one has brought forth tangible evidence of such event. So, as you may know, in a court of justice, if there is no evidence to validate a case, it is dismissed by the judge.
However, the colonial apologists of 1898 knew absolutely nothing of an Emancipation Day. They lobbied for a day to glorify the British Baymen’s Clan and their bastard sons. No hard feelings, Brother.
Stories to give the sense to pokonoh boy stick detractors It is my firm belief that truths crushed to earth that don’t rise here will rise there, in the next world. One truth that the philistine bohgaz have been trying to crush to earth will not be suppressed here, no matter how hard they try. If you say you disapprove of the reason our slave ancestors got on those rafts with their pokonoh boy sticks and went out to the fray, I understand that. To say that they didn’t, when all the records show that they did, that I noh buy.
The slaves could have been paid, they could have been promised less harsh treatment, they could have bought into propaganda, they could have fallen under the spell of a dynamic leader, they could have been threatened, they could have decided “better the devil we know than the devil coming from Merida”: they had any number of reasons to defend the land that their offspring would inherit.
16-year-old remanded for the murder of his friend, Christopher Chi, 13 oday, a minor, 16, of Yo Creek, Orange Walk District, who is the suspect in the brutal death of Christopher Chi, 13, also of Yo Creek, was arraigned at the Orange Walk Magistrate’s Court on a charge of murder. He was remanded until November 5.
On Tuesday, the body of Christopher Chi, who was reported missing, was found stuffed in a culvert in a cane field off the San Lorenzo Road in Orange Walk Town. The body was in an advanced state of decomposition.
Boat runs aground on the Barrier Reef in San Pedro A boat in which 8 tourists were sailing, in front of San Pedro, this morning ran into the reef and the boat capsized. Luckily, no one was injured.
The Coast Guard and other rescue companies went to the area and helped the visitors. The Coast Guard secured the boat, which is owned by a tour company of Caye Caulker. They now await a team from the Department of the Environment to inspect and assess the damage to the reef, if any, and to put a monetary value on the damages.
LOVE FM
Why so much crime? PUP leader comments
Crime in Belize has seen a surge in recent months. It has resulted in law-abiding citizens becoming fearful of being on the streets. While crime has always been an issue regardless of which Government is in power, the opposition never fails to hold elected officials accountable. Leader of the Opposition, John Briceno, did just that …
Belize preparing for a win at ICJ
Belize is on its way in finalizing a legal team to represent us at the International Court of Justice. It has been over four months since the country voted in favour of taking the Belize/Guatemala claim to the ICJ. June 21 saw the ICJ set a timeline for the initial pleadings. Guatemala has until May …
Men injured in Civic Center accident may be able to reap Social Security benefits
Last Friday saw the deaths of two men, Orlington Stuart and Roque Jimenez, who fell from a thirty foot scaffold inside the Belize Civic Center. Four other men were also injured in this accident. While questions were raised about whether the men were following safety protocol, there is also the question of who is responsible …
BSI claims it is not polluting the New River with untreated effluent
The newly installed aerators in the New River have been working overtime to try and remedy years of pollution and neglect that the river has suffered. While the Department of Environment looks at long term solutions, it notes that the entire community, both public and private sectors, needs to show the river some much needed …
Will Vega return to politics
Area Representative for Orange Walk North, Gaspar Vega has been notably absent from House meetings since his resignation from Cabinet over a land scandal. Rumor has it, however, that Vega is looking to make a comeback. With the recent resignation of the UDP’s Orange Walk Standard Bearer, Dr. Homero Novelo, speculations have mounted that Vega …
Who will be the next leader of the UDP?
Dean Barrow, a three-term Prime Minister, is expected to hang up his hat next year. It will also mean finding a new leader for the United Democratic Party. The Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Faber and John Saldivar are contending for the position. Today, the media asked Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wilfred Elrington, who he will …
Roads in the South flooded due to heavy rainfall
Rainy weather in the south brought flooding in some areas, making it impossible for vehicles to access certain areas. Toledo Correspondent, Paul Mahung reports. Paul Mahung, Toledo Correspondent, Love FM News: “Rainy weather conditions last night resulted in set backs to vehicular traffic due to flooding in several low lying areas in rural Toledo. The …
Elrington and Progresso Heights in court again
Progresso Heights Limited, a real estate company is suing Wilfred Elrington, who was a minority shareholder in the company for putting cautions against their properties. As a result, preventing them from selling the properties. Today, the court heard submissions from both sides in the matter. In his submissions, Elrington did not address the matter of …
24 years of improvement for KHMH
The Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital is celebrating 24 years of service to the people of Belize. A ceremony was held yesterday, also saw the unveiling of the hospital’s Accident and Emergency waiting room. During her speech, Chief Executive Officer, Michelle Hoare spoke about the many improvements the hospital has seen. Michelle Hoare, CEO, Karl Heusner …
Connecting The Dots As I listened to the speakers at the Caribbean Culture + Lifestyle Belize conservation issue launch, they were all connecting dots about the special edition’s important theme of conservation. Everyone had something interesting and different on the main focus. It was unanimous that we have to work together to highlight, value and take ownership of our most treasured and in many places overstressed environment.
Nim Li Punit + Lubaantun in Southern Belize- Maya Rain Songs Though music is now most commonly used as entertainment, for the ancient Maya, music held a more specific purpose. Discoveries made at the ancient sites of Lubaantun and Nim Li Punit in southern Belize serve as keys to uncovering the true nature and value of music to the ancient Maya.
Lubaantun is Belize’s largest Maya site of the southern districts. Discoveries dating back to the 1920s at Lubaantun reveal that the site was home to players of a wind instrument known as an ocarina.
Researchers suggest that the ancient Maya used ocarinas to produce music for daily ceremonies. Ocarina music may have served as the ceremonial accompaniment for both birth and burial, along with other rituals to inspire fertility and abundance.
At the nearby city of Nim Li Punit, a more recent discovery links us again to the ceremonial use of music in the quest for abundance. In 2015, Geoffrey Braswell of UC San Diego unearthed the second-largest jade object ever to be found in Belize*.
International Sources
Spider Monkey Mission The young spider monkey was no more than a year old when her mother was killed. Poachers in Belize had shot her so they could sell the young monkey as a pet. The shotgun blast knocked the small monkey clear of the tree where she was being cradled by her mother—shattering her right arm, dislocating her tail, and peppering her body with shot pellets.
Realizing the baby monkey was too damaged to be sold, the poachers tied her up and left her. She went without food or water for three days before a concerned passerby notified the Belize Forest Department. They rushed her to the Wildtracks Primate and Manatee Rehabilitation Center, which works to protect the country’s endangered spider and howler monkeys by rehabilitating confiscated animals so they can return to the wild.
The Mosquito Coast TV Show in the Works With Justin Theroux Apple is working on a fresh adaptation of Paul Theroux's cult novel, The Mosquito Coast. The new TV series, being lined up for Apple's streaming service, Apple TV+, already has a showrunner in place in the form of Neil Cross (Luther). Rupert Wyatt (Rise of the Planet of the Apes) will be executive producing, and will also direct many of the episodes.
It's been confirmed that The Leftovers' Justin Theroux will star in The Mosquito Coast, and it's not a coincidence that Theroux shares the name of the book's author - he's his nephew!
Per Variety, the story will follow "an idealist who uproots his family and moves them to Latin America". This will be familiar territory if you've ever caught the film version of The Mosquito Coast, which was directed by Peter Weir and released in 1981, starring Harrison Ford, Helen Mirren, and River Phoenix, and garnering awards for Ford at the time.
Meeting another bookbag Santa on a plane I am the president of a Roanoke-based charity called “Bookbag Santa” that takes a group of people and boxes of school supplies down to Belize every summer. You might think that this sounds like a pretty neat trip to take — and you’d be right — but, this year, the best part happened on the way back to Roanoke.
The man in the seat next to me on the plane turned out to be the principal of a little school in Belize, with two classrooms, two teachers, and 30 students. He also has a side business, flying to the United States once or twice a year to buy an old Greyhound-type bus, and drive it south through Texas and Mexico to Belize, where he re-sells it to one of the bus companies there.
National Geographic Video: Tropical Kingdom of Belize (1987), 50min. Here's the second one of the three National Geographic LaserDiscs that I'm uploading, this one focusing on the wildlife of Belize, a tropical country in Central America. Get ready to see everything from underwater fish to above water insects!
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.
The San Pedro Sun
Fire in Boca del Rio believed to be electrical A family in the Boca del Rio Area is homeless after a fire ravaged their home on Saturday, September 14th. The incident began shortly after 6AM, while the occupants in the home were still asleep. The San Pedro Fire Department was able to contain the blaze from spreading to nearby homes, and although no one was injured, the structure and the contents inside could not be saved.
New Postal Stamps Commemorate Belize-Taiwan Diplomatic Relations The Belize Postal Service released a new set of postage stamps today, September 12, 2019. The stamps commemorate the 30 years of diplomatic relations and friendship shared between Belize and the Republic of China (Taiwan).
This new set of postage stamps is comprised of a 25¢ stamp, a $1.00 stamp, and a $5.00 stamp. The set also includes a souvenir sheet valued at $6.00 and a first-day cover valued at $4.25.
BTB launches second phase of DYK campaign The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) has launched the second phase of their Did You Know (DYK) campaign. It is aimed at increasing awareness among hoteliers, persons who own a home and rent rooms, or businesses providing accommodation for remuneration purposes, of the need to register with the registrar of Hotels at the BTB.
Ambergris Today
Noche Centro Americana Celebrated In San Pedro The month of September is a very festive one in Belize and more so in our beautiful island of San Pedro because the community dedicates a day to celebrate the Independence of all the Central American countries including Mexico. This year was no exception as Noche Centro Americano was celebrated on Saturday, September 14, 2019 at the Hon. Louis Sylvestre Sports Complex.
The event kicked off with a beautiful parade starting from the Central Park where Marching Band “Latin Band Municipal” from San Jose Guayabal, El Salvador along with their baton girls entertained everyone with sensational musical performances and dances.
Cell Phone Charging Causes House Fire In San Pedro Residents of the Boca del Rio woke up to a morning scare as a fire broke out in the area on Saturday, September 14, 2019. San Pedro Police responded to a call which they received at about 6:20 a.m. about a house fire in the Boca Del Rio Area.
Upon arrival, they observed a two-story wooden apartment complex on Mangrove Drive, Boca Del Rio Area, engulfed in flames. The fire was later extinguished by personnel from the Fire Department and initial investigations revealed that about 6:10 a.m., on September 14, 2019, one of the occupants of the room reported that upon waking up, he smelt something burning and discovered that his mattress was on fire.
Various Belizean Sources
It was all about community at the 10th Anniversary of Art in the Park! Fire performers, poets, singers, graffiti artists and our regular contributors doing their art "live" all made for a great night of community interaction. I wish to thank our residents and visitors for showing up, being present, enjoying each other's company and supporting our artists.
Northern Border September Celebrations September Celebrations activities took place at the Northern Border on Saturday, Sept. 14. There were dance performances from Raices Mexicanos Retonos Belicenos ( Mexican roots, Belizean shoots ) San Joaquin Cultural Dance Group from the village of San Joaquin.
Occupational Safety and Health Bill This Ministry of Labour, Local Government and Rural Development is greatly saddened by the death of two workers at the Belize Civic Center last Friday, September 13th, 2019.
This tragedy is a poignant reminder that proper protection for our workers – be it physical, social or financial – is absolutely essential.
Again, the Ministry gives the assurance that it remains committed to doing all that it can to ensure that legislation for Occupational Safety and Health is enacted, implemented and monitored for all workers in Belize.
PRINCESS CASINO FREE ZONE INVITES YOU September Independence Day eve starting at 11:00 p.m. to bring in the 21st with GRUPO LOS CRACKER from Chetumal playing Caribbean tunes. Come join us. No Cover. Happy 38th Independence Day Belize.
Metal Haven Promo Video Shoot Metal Haven is having a video shoot for their promo this Sunday, September 22nd, at La Playa in Benque. The local bands that will be performing on November 2nd will be there. They'll have Metal Haven merchandise on sale. It'll be from 2:00pm to 5:00pm.
E.O.B BARROW FUND GIVES 100 SCHOLARSHIPS Where the Ministry of Education constituency budget ends Shyne Barrow work begins for his constituents.
100 Students in Mesopotamia received scholarships from the E.O.B Barrow Education Fund, a private fund made possible by Shyne Barrow, his supporters in Belize, diaspora and the Mesopotamia Human & Social Development Foundation(NGO)
The E.O.B Barrow Education Fund was created by Shyne and supporters to assist students in need of financial assistance from primary to university.
Channel 7
Missing Teen Girl Found Dead
4 teenagers murdered in less than a week. That's the grim synopsis coming out of this weekend after three more teen murders were registered in and around Belmopan.
We start with 19-year-old Adamir Choc of San Martin - who had gone missing on the 10th of September when she left a nightclub and got into a mystery vehicle and wasn't seen again. Four days later, on Saturday, she was found dead - in a grisly state.
Today, Cherisse Halsall spoke to her mother. Here's her story from Belmopan.
The Mystery of the Missing, Then Murdered Girl So, Adamir Choc is the second teenager in less than 2 weeks whose case started out as a missing person report, but ended in tragedy. The first was Christopher Chi - whose body was found on the same day she went missing.
Police now have to retrace the final hours that she was last seen alive, in the hopes of finding out what led to her killing.
We tried to get a few details from the cops today about their investigation, but they told us that at this time, they don't know very much:
Two Teens Killed In Broad Daylight, San Martin, Belmopan
16 year old Herman Valladares and 17 year old Gruver Delgado were executed on Saturday morning at 9:45 in plain view of San Martin residents. The boys were delivering tortillas for Valladares's mother when two teenaged males pulled up on them. One of the assailants was armed and an argument ensued; it ended quickly and resolutely when shots rang out. And Valladares and Delgado lay close to death on the streer. Here's the story.
On Saturday morning distraught residents of San Martin desperately attempted to save the lives of 16 year old Herman Valladares and 17 year old Gruver Delgado.
Superman Switched Sides, Should Philloughby Fear Faber's Wrath?
UDP's Port Loyola Standard Bearer Phillip Willoughby made a splash last week Thursday. He took to Facebook to declare his support for John Saldivar as the next UDP leader.
Willoughby was with Faber, so it was a defection to the Saldivar camp. And, actions have consequences, because Faber already had permitted him to set up his political office at the Rogers Stadium, and got him a seat on the NICH Board. Reports suggest now that he's switched camps that both those arrangements could be in trouble.
We met him on Arlington Drive in the Port Loyola area today and asked him about actions and consequences:
Two More Charged For Over A Tonne of Cocaine
Police have arrested 2 more men - both Hondurans - for that drug plane they intercepted a week ago, which was carrying 41 bails of cocaine to a total weight of 2,896 pounds, about one and a third tonnes.
And no, these are not the ones who were injured in the hostile exchange of gunfire between law enforcement and the drug smugglers. These are 2 individuals they intercepted away from the scene.
They are the Hondurans, Terencio Cruz and Jacobo Mejia Garcia, and they were arraigned today in the Magistrate's Court on the offense of possession of a controlled with the intent to supply.
A Plane Landed On Mexican Side
And while police are wrapping up that case, our neighbors in Mexico are also dealing with their own drug plane issue.
Reliable reports say that this plane, another King Air 200 landed in Ramonal, Mexico early this morning. It was found empty and abandoned, sources tell us. Ramonal is just across the Rio Hondo from Patchakan, Belize. The border village is also a major source of contraband into Belize.
Reliable sources say the plane may have tried to land in the Progresso area early this morning, but could not. Police would not discuss it today.
Police Won't Talk About Chi's Killer
On Friday's news, we showed you the arraignment of the 16-year-old minor for the murder of 13-year-old Christopher Chi, the resident of Yo Creek Village.
Police believe that the 16-year-old, said to be Chi's friend, is responsible for his killing. As we told you, Chi was last seen by his family members on September 6th. He was found 4 days later, on September 10th; his decomposed body had been dumped in a culvert on the San Lorenzo Road near Orange Walk Town. He had been bludgeoned to death.
COMPOL Wants Countrywide Kids Curfew So, while the Assistant Police Commissioner Myvette was guarded in his comments, his boss, Commissioner Chester Williams, was a bit more forthcoming.
As we told you, there is the suspicion that Christopher Chi met his end due to his alleged involvement in the peddling of illicit drugs. Commissioner Williams told us today that the department will be agitating for the children's curfew in Belize City to be expanded to other parts of the country. Here's how he explained why:
Chester Williams - Commissioner of Police:
"It is not only distressing for the police, but for the entire community. When a life is lost it is a concern to all, and yes, as the police, we have the responsibility of ensuring that we investigate with a view to finding the perpetrators of these crimes..."
Thieves In Trinidad Village
Four masked armed men robbed a sports bar in Orange Walk. It happened on Friday night at 9:00 in Trinidad Village. Business owner Nilvia Susana Santos along with a worker and 4 male customers were inside the bar when the thieves stormed in. One of the men had a pistol, the other had a shot gun and they attacked the customers.
Charged For Sex Assault Of Elderly Woman
A 48 year old man has been charged for sexually assaulting and harming a 68 year old woman after he groped her and punched her. He is Marco Vasquez - a resident of Card's Alley.
The sexual assault allegedly occurred on September 9th. The woman reported to the police that Vasquez touched her on her private parts and grabbed her breasts. And then on September 12th, he allegedly punched her in the face and caused it to swell up.
New Hope On The New River
Last week we showed you the mechanical aerators which the Department of the Environment installed at the portion of the river in front of Maracas Bar and Grill. A number of these were installed at strategic points along the river.
According to the DOE, the aerators have started to show positive results with an improvement in the clarity of the water at the top layer of the river. A slight increase in dissolved oxygen levels also occurred. And the very smelly hydrogen sulfide levels are also far lower than they were before the aerators were installed.
Egla For Everyone
In the 2010 Belize population census it states that 80 percent of the adult population is literate - which on the low side for central America and the Caribbean. There hasn't been an update since then but according to Eglah's Literacy and Life Skills Center, literacy is still a serious problem in Belize.
Indeed, it is hard to accept that an adult in 2019 can't read or write. But that is the reality and Eglah's Center has been trying to fix this problem for years through classes and training. Today the Center received a brand new building that will cater to more students. Here is more from the official opening that took place at the corner of West Collet Canal and Raccoon Street.
KHMH, Celebrating A Birthday
Karl Heusner Memorial, Belize's National Referral Hospital, celebrated its 24th anniversary this weekend.
It's an important milestone for KHMH because the institution can look back on how much they've grown from 1995 when they first opened their doors.
Also, under the CEO Michelle Hoare, they've had to weather some tough times, such last year, when they had to operate in emergency mode for months, while they tried to repair the roof over a third of the hospital, which was structurally compromised.
KHMH has since moved on from that challenge, and now, the management and staff are looking to make improvements to their facilities at a steady pace.
Carnival Cruise Recruiting Belize Sound Men and Women Philippines, London and Romania - those are a few of the stops that the team at Carnival Cruise Line have made to find the best of the best DJ's and musicians to work on their cruise ships. Well, they are here in Belize for the first time looking for just that. The manager of "Live Music Direction" on Carnival Cruise Line Brett Hedrick as well as Belizean DJ Alex Dena stopped by our studio to tell us about this unique job opportunity.
Civic Tragedy, Groups Call For OSH Standards
On Friday we told you about the two men who were killed and four injured when the platform of the scaffolding which they were working on gave way. They weren't wearing harnesses.
This evening, the Ministry of Labour issued a statement expressing their regret at the loss of life and the injuries caused as a result of the accident. They assured the public that they remain committed to ensuring that legislation for Occupational Safety and Health or OSH - is enacted, implemented and monitored for all workers in Belize.
The National Trade Union Congress of Belize and the PUP also issued statements calling the incident unnecessary and avoidable.
Expo Numbers Dipped (Again)
This year, for the first time, the the Expo Belize Market Place was held at the Marion Jones Stadium.
The change of venue didn't Haley attendance much; for at least the fourth year in a row, attendance decreased from the previous year. This year, the Chamber reports that over 12,000 visitors attended; the previous year saw a thousand more.
Eco Challenge Had Bi-National Military Protection
The Sarstoon Eco Challenge went off without a hitch this weekend.
The paddlers were escorted by the BDF and the Belize Coast Guard and of course, the Guatemalans Armed Forces shadowed all of them.
But, there were Eno confrontations and it ended without incident.
Play, Pan-Man!
And we close tonight with footage of last night's Pan Yaad at the ITVET.
Enjoy - and join us back here tomorrow.
Channel 5
First Cousins Killed in Belmopan Double Murder A rash of murders has the community on edge in Belmopan. We start with a double murder in the San Martin area of Belmopan on Saturday morning. Two cousins, both [...]
A Sad Ending in the Search for Adamir Choc The Choc family also of San Martin area in Belmopan, though hoping for the best, had their worst fears confirmed on Saturday. The body of nineteen-year-old Adamir Choc was found [...]
Two More Honduran Nationals Charged With Recent Drug Plane Landing There are two more arrests in connection with a drug bust that yielded police over one thousand three hundred kilos of cocaine. Thirty-six-year-old Terencio Mejia Cruz and fifty-three-year-old Jacobo Yovany [...]
Police Chase and Shoot at Robbers in Trinidad Village Armed robbers were on a rampage targeting business establishments in Trinidad Village, Orange Walk on Friday night. The group of at least five men first hit Primavera Bar, holding patrons [...]
The N.T.U.C.B. Weighs In on Fatal Civic Centre Incident The National Trade Union Congress has weighed in on the loss of life at the Civic Center. Two workers plunged to their death from a scaffold inside the facility where [...]
N.T.U.C.B. Prez Says OSH Bill is Back on the Front Burner The N.T.U.C.B. calls for a full unbiased investigation by the Police Department and that a further inquiry be coordinated by the Belize Infrastructure Limited. President Marvin Mora says that the [...]
Opposition Leader Says Pass the OSH Bill Now The People’s United Party says that the fatal tragedy at the Civic Center on Friday was unnecessary. Like the National Trade Union Congress of Belize, the P.U.P. believes that this [...]
Where is the Forensic Lab Promised So Many Years Ago? According to Briceño, the approach to effectively fight crime and prosecute criminals is multi-faceted. Not only does the prosecution needs a solid case but also strong evidence. In the case [...]
Reynaldo Verde Remains in Detention in the U.S.A. Deputy Director of the Belize Tax Service Department forty-six-year-old Reynaldo Verde remains locked up in the U.S.A. after he was nabbed by the feds for allegations of extortion and attempted [...]
Municipal Bond to be Launched by the End of September Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner says that the bond will be officially launched with its prospectus by the end of September. But will the bond reflect increased pressures on the [...]
Eglah’s Training Center Gets Much Needed Space With assistance from Hand in Hand Ministries, the Eglah’s Training Center for Women and Families, has added new space to accommodate more persons and expand its range of services. The [...]
Daniel Rios Freed of Unlawful Sexual Intercourse Charge A thirty-year-old man is free tonight after a serious charge of unlawful sexual intercourse was dismissed against him in the Supreme Court this morning. Daniel Rios was accused by a [...]
Small Improvements Noted along the New River The Department of Environment was in Orange Walk today monitoring the situation at the New River. The installation of aerators and the brief rains over the weekend have caused an [...]
Body of Missing Melchor Man Fished Out of Mopan River The body of twenty-year-old Denis Enrique Lux Matus was fished out of the river in western Belize this morning. Lux Matus is from the border town of Melchor de Mencos. [...]
Expo Marketplace 2019 at the Marion Jones Sporting Complex More than one hundred and fifty businesses participated in the two-day Expo Marketplace hosted by the Belize Chamber of Commerce at the Marion Jones Sporting Complex. The event is the [...]
Carnival Cruise Lines Reps in Belize Recruiting DJs and Musicians Representatives from Carnival Cruise Lines arrived in Belize today for a two-day recruitment exercise beginning on Tuesday at nine a.m. at the Radisson Fort George in Belize City. Manager of [...]
Election time nearing and parties are strategically taking actions
Election season is about one year away. The fast approaching national show of democracy is now forcing politicians to make strategic moves in an effort to secure, as much as they can, a seat inside the House of Representatives. One move made over the weekend was the abrupt resignation of UDP Standard Bearer for Orange …
Corozal Deputy Mayor Hospitalized after accident
A freak accident leaves Corozal Deputy Mayor, Hilberto Clarke, severely injured and hospitalized. Clarke was apparently working inside his tortilla factory when he slipped and tipped over a pot of hot oil, causing severe burns to his body. PUP Leader, John Briceno, paid him a visit today at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital and updated …
OSH Bill essential for the protection of employees
The tragedy has brought major concerns into the spotlight including the safety standards being practiced by employers and employees. The National Trade Union Congress of Belize joined the voices of outrage via a press release sent out this morning. The union says they are disturbed and aggrieved at the preventable deaths of Stuart and Jimenez. …
Vessel damages Belize’s reef
A vessel owned by Coral Tours Belize Limited ran aground with eight tourists on board at about 4:30 Friday evening. The tourists were safely removed by the Belize Coast Guard, but the vessel remains grounded on the reef. Love News spoke with Kenrick Gordon, an Environmental Officer at the Department of the Environment. According to …
Six persons homeless after fire destroyed an apartment building
Six persons are homeless due to a fire which broke out in the Boca Del Rio area of San Pedro Town on Saturday morning. Love news spoke with Gladstone Bucknor, the Officer Commanding the San Pedro Fire Station, who said that the fire started in the living room. Gladstone Bucknor – Officer Commanding San Pedro …
Expo 2019: “Expanding Business Relationships”
Over the weekend, the Belize Chamber of Commerce held its annual signature trade show under the theme “Expanding Business Relationships”. The trade show attracted almost two hundred businesses and thousands of visitors. Love news spoke to Viannie Reyes, the Marketing and Public Relations Officer of the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry, about how the expo …
Who is to blame for Civic Tragedy?
Friday the 13th was tragic for the families of Orlington Earl Stuart and Roque Jimenez. The two men lost their lives on the job site as they were packing insulation into the walls and ceiling inside the Belize Civic Centre. The men were at a height of about thirty feet, standing on an unstable scaffold …
Belize Marketing Expo brings forth the talk about corruption
‘Corruption’ – it is a word that is commonly heard especially in the political and public service arenas. As hundreds of businesses prepared to be a part of the Belize Marketing Expo on Saturday morning, the official opening ceremony was nothing short of amusing. The President of the Belize Chamber of Commerce, Nikita Usher, gave …
The decomposed body of 19-year-old Adamir Choc found
The Garden City of Belmopan ran red this past weekend as the body of 19-year-old Adamir Choc was found just outside Belmopan, and two teenage boys were gunned down a stone’s throw away from their home. Love News reporter, Courtney Menzies, travelled west to find out more about the deaths of these young teens. We …
Police have no motive in Belmopan double murder
Like every other homicide, investigators are probing. Today, the police shared their preliminary findings. According to ACP Myvett, while they know who their suspects are, they have yet to discern a clear motive. ACP Joseph Myvette, Head of National Crimes Investigation Branch: “Sometime around 9:30am Belmopan police were called to an area in San Martin …
Two teenage boys gunned down in Belmopan About three hours before Adamir’s body was found, two Belmopan boys were murdered in the San Martin area. The killer is said to be an 18-year-old, who was accompanied by his 13-year-old brother. This is another tragedy that has shaken the security of residents in the capital city. Reporter Courtney Menzies has this story as well...
Police investigating home invasion A couple from the community of Hope Creek in the Stann Creek District is lucky to be alive following a frightening and violent home invasion early Sunday morning. 29-year-old Jian Feng Chen and his wife, 27-year-old Veronica Gonzalez Corodo were asleep ...
Taiwan loses another ally
As Belize and the Republic of China (Taiwan) celebrate 30 years of good diplomatic ties, […]
Galen University hosts Scholarship Ceremony
The Annual Galen University Scholarship Ceremony was held on September 13th, 2019 at Galen’s Central Farm Campus and celebrated the awarding […]
HOT Perfect September Weekend in Belize There are lots of reasons to visit Belize in September – including the Independence Celebrations and the lower prices. But this weekend – I didn’t plan on taking any pictures, I was doing nothing special…
But I couldn’t stop pulling over and taking pictures of the sea…and palm tree shadows and really just anything. It was THAT gorgeous out. Sure it’s the stormy season – that’s why prices are so much lower – but you also have a very good chance of days like THIS!
International Sources
Where Do Your Hummingbirds Go? How much do you know about the hummingbirds that visit your nectar feeder?
By the first week of September, hummingbirds start migrating south, refueling their bodies in the mornings, migrating some middays, and feeding during late afternoons to maintain their body weight – powered by flower nectars, minute insects and spiders, and the sugar-water nectar provided by birders across the country. When eastern birders talk about hummingbirds, they are referring to Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, usually the only species in the eastern half of the United States. Overall, among the nine species that regularly nest north of Mexico, most prefer Mexico as their wintering range, although a couple species slip farther south into Belize and Guatemala, and Ruby-throats winter from southern Mexico to the edge of Panama.
The Garifuna Collective Embrace Change and Rhythm on the Outstanding 'Aban' For the rotating crew of the Belize-based Garifuna Collective, the last two decades have been full of change. Since local label Stonetree's global release of compilation Paranda introduced a worldwide audience to music of the Garifuna culture, a diasporic community-based in the Caribbean and Central America of African and indigenous descent, Garifuna ensembles and artists have caught the eye of a previously unprecedented market, and few with as much success as the Collective.
Since frontman Andy Palacio's unexpected death in 2008, though, the Garifuna Collective have only released one studio album: 2013's Ayó, largely a tribute to Palacio ("ayó" meaning "goodbye" in the Garifuna language the group sings in). It's after a slightly smaller gap in releases that they return with this year's Aban ("One"), an album that sees the group releasing some of its most potent music yet.
Hopkins, Belize, 2min. Hopkins es un pueblo costero en el este de Belice. pero hoy quiero mostrarles un pequeño pedazo de Kopkins en el que viví por dos semanas y me enamore de el.
The Belize National Youth Orchestra plays "We Are Marching", 2min. The Belize National Youth Orchestra joined the Benque Viejo Marching Band and the Benque marimba Hijos del West in a beautiful concert adding to the 38th Independence celebrations of Belize. This took place at the Benque Viejo Cancha on September 15, 2019.
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.
The San Pedro Sun
Found Property On Saturday, September 14th, about 10:53AM, police visited the airstrip in San Pedro Town and conducted a search in a plane that arrived from Corozal Town. The search led to the discovery of a blue bag containing (2) parcels of suspected cannabis weighing a total of 1,462 grams. Police are investigating.
Wolfe’s Woofer: Suspicious Minds Vernon found me at the restaurant on the beach and ate breakfast while I finished my coffee.
“What happened to you last night?” I asked. “One minute you were shooting pool with me and Mario and all of a sudden at nine-thirty, you disappeared.”
“I went off and got in trouble is what I did,” he said. “I need some advice.”
“Well, at least this time it’s just advice you need and not bail money, too. What happened?”
Doctor Love: My son says he hates me Dear Doctor Love,
My son tells me he hates me. He’s said it twice, and I don’t know how to respond. Do you have any thoughts on what I should do?
/s/Unsigned.
Dear Unsigned,
Few things hurt a parent like hearing the words “I hate you,” from their child but they are only words, despite the intensity you think is behind them. Your son doesn’t hate you—he loves you. He just got angry and didn’t know how to handle it. Whether your son is a toddler or a teenager, you can help him learn better communication skills.
New Corozal Sign The newly Corozal is soon finished. It is now painted, and all it is left are the lights to be connected and some finishing touch.
Pan Yaad Concert 2019 Live performances from Pan di Rock band, Omolewa Osain band, and Pandemonium Jr bands at the 2019 Pan Yaad concert held at the ITVET.
The Reporter
Missing Woman Calls Family, Strange Claims A family member of Alicia Hernandez has reached out to say that she has just communicated with the family and claims she was assaulted and robbed and had no way of communicating with them. But she is allegedly alive and well.
Locked Up Abroad ! There has been word in the business community, for some time now, that there is an “extortion ring” inside Belize’s tax circles. When that “ring” gets wind that you owe taxes they offer to clear your books for a price. Say you owe $75,000 in taxes; the “ring” can convert that to an outstanding sum of $25,000 for a fee of $15,000.
NO ARRESTS IN DOUBLE MURDER Up to this morning Police sources say that they have made no arrests for the murders of two minors in San Martin in Belmopan on Saturday. The names of two youths have been called on social media as the suspected murderers, but Police would not speculate or confirm.
Drug bust Nets 3,000 LBS of Cocaine This week started off with a bang as gunshots broke the still of the night just off the Coastal Road at mile 7 just after midnight on Monday. That is where a King beach aircraft landedin Belize, loaded with cocaine. There to greet them were Belizean law enforcement personnel.
Editorial – Friday September 13th. 2019 The Reporter is unable to substantiate any of what follows, but during several interviews with knowledgeable persons, we have stitched together the following account:
When a drug plane lands, whether it be in the north or in the south, or in the center as it did this time off the Coastal Road, its arrival triggers a bee-hive of frenetic activity.
Deputy Tax Director Awaits Trial in US Extortion Case Reynaldo Verde, the Deputy Director of General Services of the Belize Tax Services Department was detained in the United States over the weekend and has been taken to Florida to face charges of extortion and attempted extortion.
WORST FEARS REALIZED The desperate search for missing teenager Adamir Choc, 19, ended today with the discovery of her badly decomposed body on the Never Delay Road on the outskirts of Belmopan City.
LOVE FM
Elderly man missing 76-year-old Humberto Alcoser, a resident of Corozal Town, is missing. Alcoser was last seen on September 15, when he left home for an unknown destination. Anyone with information that can assist in locating Alcoser, is asked to contact the nearest police station.
Missing Woman Found Well and Alive 21-year-old Alicia Isabel Hernandez from San Ignacio, Cayo was found after she had gone missing. Hernandez was reported missing on September 8 after family members last heard of her being in a casino that same night. She was found in Santa Elena and has been reunited with her family, alive and well.
Home Invasion A couple from the community of Hope Creek in the Stann Creek District is lucky to be alive following a frightening and violent home invasion early this morning. 29-year-old Jian Feng Chen and his wife, 27-year-old Veronica Gonzalez Corodo were asleep when three armed men gained accessed to their home through the atic. Chen told police that the men tied them up and ransacked the house, stealing two thousand dollars. Thereafter, the men made good their escape in Chen’s silver 2004 Isuzu rodeo valued at eight thousand dollars.
Gun violence claims two live Two teenagers with so much promise were gunned down in Belmopan. According to police reports, just before 10:00 a.m., yesterday, September 14, police responded to a report of a shooting incident on St. Joseph Street located in the San Martin Area of Belmopan. 17-year-old Gruver Delgado and 16-year-old Herman Viadarez were injured in the incident. Delgado died at the Western Regional Hospital yesterday while undergoing treatment. Meanwhile Viadarez was transported to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital where he died at about 4:00 this morning
Teenager succumbed to his injuries 16-year-old Herman Viadarez succumbed to his injuries early this morning at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. As we reported yesterday, Viadarez was one of two persons injured in a shooting incident yesterday in Belmopan. His cousin 17-year-old Gruver Delgado died while undergoing treatment at the Western Regional Hospital yesterday.
Elderly man reported missing in Corozal
The family of 76- year old Humberto Alcoser is seeking the public’s assistance in locating him.
Alcoser was last seen about 3pm today
when he left home to an unknown destination.
Big wins for Bandits and Verdes as Premier League first round comes to a close
After an international break, the Premier League of Belize returned to close out its first round of the tournament this weekend.
On Saturday night, Belmopan Bandits, top side despite having played a game less, crushed bottom side Freedom Fighters/Valley Pride F.C. 6-2 at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium in the capital.
Gun and ammunition found in Belize City
A search conducted by police on Raccoon Street, Belize City led to the discovery of one black .38 Special Revolver, loaded with six live .38 rounds of ammunition.
San Pedro police nab weed on plane
Yesterday morning, San Pedro police conducted a search on a plane that arrived from Corozal Town and found a blue bag with two parcels of cannabis.
Young woman reported missing in San Ignacio
The family of Alicia Hernandez is seeking the public’s assistance in locating her.
Hernandez was last seen on Monday, September 9, 2019. Her family has been trying to reach her since then.
Two young men murdered in Belmopan
Police are investigating the murders of two Belmopan teenagers.
According to reports, around 9:50 a.m. yesterday, police responded to a shooting incident on St. Joseph Street, San Martin area, Belmopan.
Charging cell-phone leads to apartment fire
Authorities are investigating a fire that destroyed an apartment complex in the Boca Del Rio area of San Pedro.
Around 6:10 a.m. yesterday morning, one of the occupants of the room woke up after he smelled something burning.
Home invasion reported in Hope Creek Police are investigating a home invasion that occurred this morning in Hope Creek, Stann Creek.
An Asian businessman reported that around 4:30 a.m. today, three armed men entered his home.
Minor dies from gunshot Herman Valladares, 16, who was shot in Belmopan yesterday, died from his injuries at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) this morning.
Valladares was shot along with his cousin Gruver Delgado, 17. They were both shot to the head. While Delgado died instantly.
NICH invites public to National September Lecture on History of the Flag The National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) is inviting teachers, students, and the general public to its sixth annual National September Lecture.
The lecture is entitled “The History and Evolution of the Belize Flag,” and will be held at the Bliss Center for Performing Arts in Belize City on Tuesday, September 17, at 8:00 p.m.
Police investigate stabbing in San Jose, Toledo Authorities are investigating a fatal stabbing that occurred last night in San Jose, Toledo.
According to reports, a group of men were involved in a brawl that resulted in two men being stabbed.
UDP Orange Walk North standard bearer abruptly resigns UDP Standard Bearer for Orange Walk North, Homero Novelo, tendered his resignation letter to the United Democratic Party (UDP) secretariat on September 9, 2019.
“I don’t want to be counted out for one day I may seek public office again,” Novelo stated.
A Sidewalk Stroll In Beach Town Belize People are always fascinated to find out that we have just one road and one sidewalk where I live in Placencia, Belize. The sidewalk runs north to south and is sandwiched between the road and the beach, the three running in parallel for about two miles in the heart of our little village. Historically, our sidewalk has actually been famous, as it’s been in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the world’s narrowest main street. In true Caribbean fashion, its foundation is made of broken conch shells.
There is something truly delightful about getting a seaweed shake from The Shak near the point (the very end of the peninsula) and wandering up the sidewalk with my little dog,
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving in Placencia and The Southern Barrier Reef The Belize Barrier Reef is one of the greatest ocean wonders in the world. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the second-largest barrier reef in the world.
If you’re visiting Belize, don’t miss your opportunity to explore the Reef. Teeming with live corals and vivid aquatic life, it is a spectacular destination for any scuba diver, snorkeler or sea kayaker.
Placencia is a lively area that’s popular with visitors from around the world. You can find beaches, dining, and shopping in the heart of Belize’s vacation area. Placencia has over 16 miles of unspoiled beachfront and it is a great place to start your Belize adventure.
What Is Glover’s Reef Atoll? And Why Is It So Special? Glover’s Reef is one such atoll located approximately 22 miles (35 km) offshore from mainland Belize. Glover’s Atoll is part of a protected marine reserve called the Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve (GSSCMR), one of the most beautiful and eco-diverse regions of the reef. The clear water, white sandy beaches, and abundance of fish and other marine life make Glover’s Reef one of the most popular scuba diving and snorkeling sites in Belize.
Today, Glover’s Reef Atoll is an oval ring of coral measuring some 54 miles (87 km) in circumference around what was once an island. Inside Glover’s reef, there are more than 700 “patch” reefs or isolated stands of coral, including delicate fan corals and squat brain corals. These corals are why Glover’s Reef is such a biodiverse region. Everything from spiny urchins to huge schools of curious parrotfish uses the coral to hide from predators, lay eggs, and search for food. Divers have spotted stingrays, sharks, sea turtles, and rays in the reef, but it is the springtime visitors that get the most attention.
Tips for Solo Travellers Visiting Belize Many solo visitors like to visit Belize outside of the major holidays like Christmas and Easter. If you come during the “off season,” you can save on lodgings, and airfare is often cheaper as well. Some of the best months to visit when it’s less crowded are January, February, and after Easter.
And don’t worry about meeting people or making friends! Belize is world-famous for its friendly locals. Belize is still far enough off the beaten path that it feels like a small town. And with everyone speaking English, you’ll never have any problems striking up a conversation.
If you’re flying into Belize, you’ll land at the Philip Goldson Airport. It’s sometimes called the Belize City Airport, but it’s actually located about nine miles north of Belize City in a village called Ladyville.
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.
Getting to Belize From Europe Due to Belize’s location in Central America, there are no non-stop flights to the country from Europe. The good news, however, is that it is now easier than ever for people in Europe to enjoy an unforgettable vacation in Belize.
As a former British colony, Belize has always been a popular destination for Britons. American Airlines now offers direct flights to Belize that depart from London’s Heathrow Airport and make a stop in Miami, Florida before continuing on to Belize. Flights to Belize depart four times per week from Heathrow and have only a short layover in Miami before continuing directly to Belize City.
International Sources
Humberto to track dangerously close to Bermuda this week, possibly as a major hurricane Strengthening Hurricane Humberto is expected to track close enough to Bermuda to unleash heavy rain, strong winds and pounding seas this week.
As of 5 a.m. EDT Monday, Humberto was moving northeast at 5 mph with maximum sustained winds of 85 mph. The storm is expected to continue to strengthen early this week as it stirs rough surf along the East coast of the United States.
Restorative aquaculture: can farming shellfish and seaweed provide habitat benefits? While aquaculture is often associated with degrading water quality, invasive species introductions and the destruction of important coastal habitats, increasing evidence suggests that well-designed and managed aquaculture – particularly of shellfish and seaweeds – can provide ecosystem services including habitat benefits for fish and other marine life.
Working alongside key partners around the world, The Nature Conservancy is combining global-scale synthesis science and on-the-ground projects that address remaining scientific questions around the habitat value of shellfish and seaweed aquaculture.
Celebrate Independence Day in Belize, 1min. Independence Day 2019 will be a special time in Belize as the country celebrates its 38th anniversary of gaining full sovereignty. The occasion will be marked with a number of amazing celebrations, parties, and activities. Every year, Belize celebrates the September celebrations with a unique theme. This year’s official theme is “From Maya Grandeur to Modern Glory, Together Let’s Shape the Belizean Story.”
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.
The San Pedro Sun
No reported injuries in Boca del Rio fire A fire in the Boca del Río area destroyed a two-storey wooden structure at around 6AM on the morning of Saturday, September 14th. The San Pedro Fire Department was able to contain the blaze before it could spread to any other buildings in the vicinity. However, none of the contents (family belongings) inside the burning house could be saved. The Fire Department is now investigating the cause of the fire. The San Pedro Sun will have more information on this latest incident as it becomes available.
Various Belizean Sources
Cristina Martinez passes away Mayor Daniel Guerrero, the San Pedro Town Council and Staff would like to extend its sincere condolences to the Martinez friends and family on the sadly passing of Ms. Cristina Martinez.
Ms. Martinez will be greatly missed as she was an active member of our society and always willing to help others in need and a very hard working woman.
Funeral services will be on Sunday, at 2pm at the San Pedro R.C. Church.
Adamir Choc's body found The lifeless body of Adamir Choc was discovered moments ago on the Never Delay road outside of Cotton Tree Village.
Update on the New River – Use of Aerators to Remediate Current Conditions of the New River The Department of the Environment (DOE) hereby informs the public, especially residents of Orange Walk Town and those living in the vicinity of the New River, that the Department is implementing a pilot initiative to use aerators in the river, as recommended by the recently established New River Task Force. The intention is to remedy the current conditions of the New River by using aerators to introduce oxygen in the water and revert the current anaerobic condition of the river, consequently decreasing the stench coming out of the river.
Puma in Ladyville This puma was seen yesterday afternoon up a tree in a yard in the Lake View Gardens area of the village. Visits by Forest Dept yesterday and today were unable to locate it again.
Carnival in Corozal Carnival is a time of revelry, where there's an explosive display of color, music, and creativity! The King and Queen Competition is an essential part of celebrating carnival in Belize. Corozal Carnival will be held on Friday September 20th, 2019.
The Route 2019:
Santa Rita Road,
7th Avenue,
Turn left into first Avenue,
Straight into 4th Avenue,
Turn left into 8th st. North,
Into 5th avenue,
Ends at Recalde Stadium.
Caye Caulker Parade Photos Firstly, we take this opportunity to wish our staff member, Jerome, a happy birthday. C.C.V.C would like to thank all the schools businesses, police, fire , B.W.S.L., the health department and the staff of the Caye Caulker Village Council who participated and made the uniform parade a success!
ArT In ThE ParK in Corozal, photos A little stroll at our ArT In ThE ParK tonight was great. Beautiful moonlight. Wonderful event and turnout. Great music, So many stalls offering trinkets, food, wood carvings, acrylic paintings, coconut husk art, etc. Our favourite was definitely Coconut Hut.
Corozal All Stars U17 Female over Benque 9-0 CONGRATULATIONS! Corozal All Stars U17 Female wins Benque 9-0. Impressive, well done girls. Thank you for your continued commitment, special thanks to the coaches, parents and players. Well done. Total goals 17-0. Unofficially we continue leading the U17 Females FFB Global Table of Standing -
Rafael Cal Scholarship Awards Each September we welcome six new students into our Rafael Cal Memorial High School Scholarship program. Congratulations, Javeed Romero, Shamira Hernandez, Nathaniel Gonzalez, Keian White, Carly Galvez and Jossiah Lucas! They were selected from the primary schools in San Ignacio and Santa Elena and are now enrolled in Sacred Heart College, Eden SDA High School, and St. Ignatius High School. 57 students have graduated through this program.
FRANCISCO MAY PECH Francisco May Pech (1884 - 1969) was the last supreme commander of Maya military forces . He was a Yucatec Maya General considered as the last Genral of the rebellious Maya hosts of the so-called War of Castes in the Yucatan Peninsula , Mexico , particularly in the region that today constitutes the peninsular state of Quintana Roo , where he lived a large part of his life and died.
He was born in Yokdzonot and died in Chan Santa Cruz, which was the original name of the current city of Felipe Carrillo Puerto and is also the name given to the de facto independent Maya state , which was the capital or main redoubt of the indigenous rebels during the rebellion known as Caste War . The rebellious Maya were known as the Cruzoob .
Twenty-two Belizean Patriots honored
Annually, the Government seeks out individuals who have provided outstanding and meritorious service to the country and people of Belize and offers a small recognition under the National Award system. […]
One dead, one critical in Belmopan shooting
A minor, 17, is dead and a man is in critical condition following a shooting in Belmopan this morning.
Reports are that Uver Delgado, was shot to the head and died while receiving emergency care. […]
PUP laments tragedy at Civic Center
The People’s United Party (PUP) today extended condolences to the families of the men killed on Friday when the platform of the scaffolding upon which they were working gave way. […]
Body of missing teen found
The body of missing teen, Adamir ‘Mia’ Choc was discovered today on the Never Delay road on the outskirts of Cotton Tree village.
Choc went missing as she exited a night club in Belmopan around 3 am last Saturday. […]
“New river stench will get worse before it gets better,” warns DOE
The Department of the Environment (DOE) said today that it is taking steps to address the environmental issue causing the putrid stench from the New River, which is affecting communities in Orange Walk, but added the stench will get worse before it gets better. […]
Former murder suspect is charged with stealing woman’s bike
Kareem Francis, 29, who has beaten more than one murder charges in the past, remains in police custody until he can pay an old fine then post bail granted to him for the offense of theft of a beach cruiser bicycle. […]
September in Belize. Red, White and Blue? Check. Heat? Check! Yesterday I had an hour or so before a meeting so I went on a bit of a walk about. San Pedro town is getting busier and busier when it comes to traffic but there is really no better way to really see and experience this island.
The island is being fully decorated for September 21st – Independence Day in Belize. Many also celebrate independence days around Central America and Mexico.
I took a bunch of other pictures as I walked along the beach. Clouds, humidity, sun and HEAT is the forecast for the near term!
International Sources
2 Days in Belize: Ruminations on Ruins, Rum, and Running out of Room (to Eat) How to make the most of a quick visit to Belize.
Belize, formerly British Honduras and the place whose town called San Pedro is the alleged inspiration behind Madonna’s 1986 hit, “La Isla Bonita,” is a fascinating Central American country with a stark dual personality, with delights to be found in either camp. (You will find that “this is where I long to be,” is a relevant Madonna lyric in either case.) It is also a place that has become more and more accessible to Americans, especially during the rise of discount travel and budget economy class, requiring only half a day’s time from most U.S. airport hubs.
In even just a scant two days it is possible to get a good long look at both of Belize’s unique faces, from the inland ruins and rainforest to the island tiki and tacos. If quick and dirty travel to Belize makes itself available to you—looking at you, Scott’s Cheap Flights—then by all means, carpe Belize. (That’s “seize the Belize.” Belize it or not, any and all clever Belize-based word play has already been done.)
One Mexican charged in Belize cocaine bust One of the six subjects detained by Belize Police in an anti-drug operation is a man of Mexican nationality. The six were busted while unloading more than 1,300 kilos of cocaine from a plane along the Coastal Road, near the Mexican border.
La Policía de Belice report that four of those arrested have been charged with the crime of drug trafficking including the 69-year-old Mexican national. The King Air Aircraft 200 was seen landing along the Belizean highway approximately 250 kilometers south of Chetumal.
Tropical disturbances continue to stir over central Atlantic In addition to Humberto and the feature in the Gulf of Mexico, there are a few other tropical disturbances that bear watching over the central Atlantic for possible impact later in the week.
There are three disturbances being monitored over the central Atlantic this weekend. These are located between 1,000 and 1,500 miles east of the Lesser Antilles as of Saturday afternoon.
Dry air was surrounding most of these features which were drifting toward an area of increasing wind shear.
Banda San Jose Guayabal at Noche Centro Americana, 7min. Banda San Jose Guayabal from El Salvador performing in San Pedro Town for Noche Centro Americana that honours the Independence of Mexico and five Central American countries (Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica).
Pickup truck slowing down and following a young girl in Xaibe Village, 1/4min. The video shared on socal media shows an unknown pickup truck slowing down and following a young girl in Xaibe Village today. The young girl becomes frightened and runs away. Police are now investigating the case, as village residents have raised concerns.
San Pedro Fire, 1min. Morning fire controlled on Ambergris Caye, captured by neighborhood resident Hillyboo Lara who had lost his house due to fire about a year ago.
6 beautiful Manatees, 1/4min. Blessed day aboard yolo- As everyone got to experience a lovely family of 6 beautiful Manatees just cruising the beautiful waters of San Pedro, Belize
St Georges Caye Parade 2019 in Cayo, 4min. Video from Cayo's 2019 St. George's Caye Day parade.
"10th St.George's Caye parade that took place in San Ignacio, on the west side.
Houston Ultimate Women’s Expo, 1min. The Houston Ultimate Women’s Expo is a consumer show promoting women empowerment. This event is the ultimate showcase for the latest products and services, including the very best in shopping, beauty, health and wellness and ofcourse, travel and leisure. Here's some testimonials from the show!
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.
The San Pedro Sun
Island resident Anthony Coleman accepted to Shriners Hospital; Ambergris Caye Masonic Lodge fundraises for his assistance Shriners Hospital for Children in Shreveport, Louisiana, USA has accepted islander Anthony Coleman, and he is set to travel on November 4, 2019 for evaluation and surgery for a pair of prosthetic arms. All his medical expenses will be covered by the Shriners Hospital. However, Ambergris Caye Masonic Lodge (ACML) is seeking to raise $20,000 for his travel and expenses during his initial two-month stay for him and his mother.
Ambergris Today
Major Drug Bust At Illegal Airstrip Off Coastal Road In Belize Belize Police have charged four men for what is being considered one of the biggest drugs in Belize after a drug plane landed at an illegal airstrip off the Coastal Road on Sunday, September 7, 2019.
Police confiscated four bales containing approximately 1,000 pounds of cocaine. Four men were arrested and charged jointly with one count of possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply another person or persons for the purpose of drug trafficking.
BTB Launches Second Phase Of “Did You Know” Campaign The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) launched the second phase of its Did You Know (DYK) campaign, which is aimed at increasing awareness among hoteliers, persons who own a home and rent rooms or businesses providing accommodation for remuneration purposes of the need to register with the Registrar of Hotels at the BTB.
New Postal Stamps Commemorate Belize-Taiwan Diplomatic Relations The Belize Postal Service released a new set of postage stamps on Thursday, September 12, 2019. The stamps commemorate the 30 years of diplomatic relations and friendship shared between Belize and the Republic of China (Taiwan).
These stamps depict important symbols of the two countries. The 25¢ stamp depicts the flags of Belize and the Republic of China (Taiwan), the $1.00 stamp depicts the Belize Blue Hole and the Jade Mountain of Taiwan, and the $5.00 stamp depicts the national bird of Belize, the Keel-Billed Toucan and the national bird of the Republic of China (Taiwan), the Taiwan Blue Magpie.
Various Belizean Sources
Boat collides with reef off San Pedro, no one injured Information reaching our newsroom indicates that there was an accident at sea earlier this evening. According to sources, a boat belonging to a local tour operator with guests aboard collided into the reef near Ambergris Caye and capsized. We were reliably informed that no one was injured. Some of the organizations mentioned assisting the passengers and captain were Rickilee Response and Rescue (Triple R), Xsite Belize and personnel from the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. The Belize Coast Guard has secured the boat awaiting a visit from the Department of the Environment (DOE) to evaluate damages to the reef.
Corozal House of Culture All Aboard Historical event The Corozal House of Culture will be celebrating an All Aboard Historical event that will take place on Tuesday September 17, 2019. Pictures are from last year.
Central America & Mexico Independence Eve Celebration in San Pedro We invite everyone to the Central America & Mexico Independence Eve on Saturday, September 14, 2019 at the Hon. Louis Sylvestre Sports Complex.
There will be a parade starting at 5:00 p.m. from the Central Park and ending at the Hon. Louis Sylvestre.
Come enjoy the food from the various Central American countries and Mexico. There will be lots of performances! Dance the night away with the Caribbean Kings band!
Annual Report 2018: Ya’axche Conservation Trust 2018 was an incredible year for us; we celebrated 20 years of conservation and community empowerment in the Maya Golden Landscape, southern Belize!
Our astonishing accomplishments have been possible with the support of supporters, friends, partners, donors, board members and staff – thank you!
Read highlights of our work in the 2018 Annual Report.
Free Basketball Skills Training Camp Inviting all Corozal Basketball lovers to sign up for this FREE upcoming camp featuring NBA fitness trainer Trey Slate. See details on the ad below.
Jayden Daniel Hill wins Corozal Municipal Bazaar Logo Competition Congratulations young man! Mayor Rigo Vellos and the Corozal Town Council congratulates Mr. Jayden Daniel Hill for winning the Municipal Bazaar Logo Competition. The 4th Form Student from the Corozal Community College, received his prize of $100.00. Let us continue supporting our local entrepreneurs and small business owners.
BEL Appoints Mr. Jason Rivers to Head its Finance, Procurement and Inventory Management Division Belize Electricty Limited (BEL) is proud to announce that its Board of Directors has appointed Mr. Jason Rivers to the new post of General Manager, Finance, Procurement & Inventory Management within the Company's Leadership Team with effect from September 1, 2019. In this capacity. he now heads the newly-created Division of Finance, Procurement & Inventory Management covering the functions of Finance. Accounting, Treasury Management. External Audit. Procurement and Inventory Management.
Frenemy Coming to Cayo Frenemy, the comedy from Jankunu Productionz which has been performed all over Belize, is heading to Cayo on the 28th. They'll be performing the comedy at the Sacred Heart auditorium.
"Frenemy tour continues CAYO & PLACENCIA we're coming!
If yuh not mi friend, your my enemy... Frenemy"
Mahogany and Cedar trees planted along the Mopan River Yesterday villagers from El Cruzadero in Peten planted 250 mahogany and cedar trees along the Mopan River as part of the youth group “Todos Por Un Mundo Verde” and the Binational Watershed Alliance effort aimed at restoring riversides.
Black Friday Fall Leaves Two Roofers Dead
A Black Friday tragedy has left two construction workers dead after falling to their deaths this morning. It happened just after 11:00 at the country's largest indoor sporting facility, the Civic Center.
7News was there shortly after and Cherisse Halsall spoke to an eyewitness to the horrifying event. Here's her story:...
Cherisse Halsall reporting
This is the towering scaffold inside the City Center from which 6 men fell today. They were installing sound insulation padding, when the plywood platform across the scaffold gave way, sending the men crashing to the Civic bleachers - a 30 foot, or three story freefall. One of their co-workers was the first responder to a gruesome scene.
Jesus Contreras, Construction Worker
"We were inside working in the Civic Center above the court above the seats. 6 individuals were putting cloth and were putting pressure on the Zinc, one of the 2x6 broke in half and when it broke in half all of them caved in causing two of the individuals to fall headway first, with the rest falling on the seats, one of them falling lying down and it was just a horrible experience."
"One old man known as Roque, he fell headway first opening his head, his brains came out, and one of them. Mr Earl Stuart fell shoulder first and hit on the railing. I don't know if he broke his neck or his shoulder. One of them named Willy dropped flat way back hitting his head back here was busted up and one named Lucas dropped on a seat sitting down I think he broke his foot. One named Charly ,a big one ,he fell on a seat too and he bounced off and lay down on the ground. The one that they call Max he dropped on his belly across one of the chairs."
"One of them the one I think Mr. Earl i don't know if he will make it because he broke his neck and the old man who busted his head and his brains came out I don't know if he'll make it either."
It's a horrible accident - but how did it happen? Were safety measures not observed? Well, we know the men were not wearing harnesses and the workers had doubts about the stability of the scaffold:
Jesus Contreras, Construction Worker
"Myself and another guy one of my friends who is back there called Molina. We had just come off of the board because we wanted to prove my uncle wrong that it wouldn't break because my uncle was telling us that it would break. And then I told my uncle it won't break watch and we went up and came back down and as I came down as I touched the ladder beside the stick that broke all I heard was clack. It broke."
Reporter
"Why do you think your uncle believed that it was going to break?"
Jesus Contreras, Construction Worker
"He was pointing to the 2x6 that it had a big belly and when the 15 of us were on top of it. It had the same belly but it didn't break. So I said it wasn't gonna break and then the rest who already did their part went to the shop. A little while after my uncle said it would break and I went to the top to prove him wrong, and..."
And now four men are in the hospital while two are dead, Roque Jimenez and Orlington Stuart. Stuart's family says he will be missed by the one son and two daughters he leaves behind.
Voice of: Alec Jones, Brother of Orlington "Earl" Stuart
"Shocked and still soaking it in, but we have to figure it out. It's sad and we didn't expected it. The whole family is shaken. Just trying to adjust. Its just rough. He was a cool guy, a working family guy. He is a car dealer and he also worked with a roofing company. I guess thats what he was doing at the civic. He was around every day. He was here and he lived with his son. He was well loved."
And, to hear this worker tell it, it was caused by laziness:
Jesus Contreras, Construction Worker
"The problem is today that the one who was building the scaffold with us got a little lazy and in the end only two of us was building it so we didn't have much help to..."
Reporter:
"So you guys didn't double check it?"
Jesus Contreras, Construction Worker
"We didn't double check this time."
The contractor didn't want to comment on that - and says that he is still trying to ascertain how this accident happened to such experienced and knowledgeable workers.
Delphin Garnett, Delnox Belize
"The four guys that are still admitted, they ae doing very well. They area stable. According to the doctors nobody's life is in danger at this time. Two of them might even come out today. I have been with the family from the accident. I just had a formal meeting with one family and I am on my way to see the other family."
Reporter:
"The young man Contreras told us this morning that he feels that they didn't double the scaffolding."
Delphin Garnett, Delnox Belize
"I am not able to comment on that. What I can tell you is that the men we have working there, they are very experienced in what they were doing, especially scaffolding. The scaffolding are still there standing and what happened is a piece of lumber that should have been able to take the load gave way and we are still trying to understand why. They were actually working at the lowest point we have worked in the building, because its the side and that one we have to mount the scaffolding between the seats in the bleachers. Orlington, he is a personal friend for many years. He has worked with me and he has a lot of experience and he was a pusher, very meticulous and careful in what he was doing and he was just an extremely good worker. Mr. Roque as we called him, he made everybody happy. That's his personality. Its a joy to work alongside him and work along with him and he was also experienced in construction, so he knew about all sorts of things, he is a very valuable worker we lost."
APEX and Belize Infrastructure Limited both issued statements on the tragic accident expressing their prayers and condolences to the families. Tonight the four men that survived are being treated for injuries at the KHMH. Two of them may be released before morning.
16 Year Old Charged For Killing 13 Year Old Friend
Earlier this week we told you about Christopher Chi, the 13 year old from Yo Creek village whose body was found bludgeoned outside Orange Walk town. Well, police have charged his 16 year old friend for doing it. The minor was arraigned in Orange Walk Magistrate's Court his afternoon - and remanded to prison.
Hiss attorney Marcel Cardona said his client maintains his innocence:
Marcel Cardona, Attorney for Accused Minor
"I spoke with my client very briefly and my client maintains the position that he is not responsible for the murder or the death, or for having cause the death of Mr. Christopher Chi, no. Accordingly I will have to take further instructions in relation to that as time goes by no, but the police could only allot me a certain amount of time and during that time that was in a nutshell what the client informed me of, that he is not guilty of the offense which he has been charged with. He has been remanded up to November 5th of this year."
According to our reports, this teenager was the one who picked up Chi at his home on September 6th - which is the last time his. Family saw him alive. The teenager was found dead on September 10th. He died from blunt force head trauma; his family says he was stoned to death.
14 Year Old Boy Missing in San Pedro
And while that 13 year old is dead, a San Pedro family has concerns for a missing 14 year old boy. Roberto Nah's family says he was last seen on Wednesday at midday. They made a missing persons report for him yesterday.
Island police had a lead, which never worked out and now they say they have no new information.
Shopkeeper's Alleged Killer Charged On Wednesday we told you about the murder of the 61 year old Shopkeeper int Bella Vista, Toledo - who villagers affectionately called "Grampa". Jiang Zhang Xu was shot by a robber on the night of 10th September. The gunman demanded money, and when Xu resisted, the robber shot him.
Well, police have charged the man who they arrested shortly after the murder. He is 37 year old Jeremiah Pop, also from Bella Vista village. He will be arraigned for murder and remanded. Pop may have used a weapon that disappeared from his last place of employment at a shrimp farm.
Danny Mason Wants Embassy Witness
Last night's headline was about accused murder William "Danny" Mason.
He gave a captivating statement from the dock. He professed his innocence, saying that he was clueless about how Pastor Lucas' decapitated head ended up in the back of his pickup truck. Mason also stressed that Pastor Lucas - with whom he was allegedly very generous - was his close friend and that he was overcome with grief when he learned that he had been killed.
So, there is only one outstanding matter before the defense completely closes its case. Mason wants to call a US Embassy employee to testify on his behalf, but the issue is that this man is not in Belize. So, there is a process that the court has to go through to get access to this potential witness, and it may cause even more delays to the end of this trial.
Saldivar Shows Military Muscle, If Not Quite Might
Today the Ministry of National Security held its third annual security forces parade in Belmopan. Perhaps fashioned off those goose-stepping military parades we've see in North Korea - today's event in Belmopan wasn't quite as regimented or as imperious, but it brought a little life to the capital on a Friday evening.
And it provided a high profile showcase for the man who would want to be leader, John Saldivar. He's been flexing his political muscle recently and said today was a chance for the forces to showcase themselves:
Accused Murder and Gangster Troy Hyde Doubles Up On Bail
He's on bail for murder and so it wasn't surprising when 32 year old Troy Hyde was remanded after he was charged for being a gang member.
But, tonight, after a week in prison, the alleged killer is back out - after his attorney, Norman Rodriguez convinced the Supreme Court to grant him five thousand dollars bail. Justice Colin Williams agreed to the bail, against the strong objections of the DPP's office.
Norman Rodriguez said bail should have been granted...
Making Migration Sense This morning the government of Belize held an inter-ministerial consultation on Migration Governance Indicators. This assessment was conducted at GOB's request to generate an inclusive national conversation on Belize's migration policies. We stopped by the Biltmore to get a better understanding of how different agencies are inputting on a national policy for migration.
Edmund Zuniga, C.E.O. - Ministry of Immigration with responsibility for Refugees:
"Today we're having a presentation on the findings of the migration governance indicators. Its a study which started in January of this year looking at some data and information which will eventually feed into the development of our comprehensive migration and development policy for Belize."
Monitoring Water Quality At The Source Today the Department of the Environment held a validation workshop for a Comprehensive National Water Quality monitoring program and protocol. The Canadian Consulting firm CBCL traveled around Belize to identify gaps in water monitoring protocols. Today they shared those findings with stakeholders and asked for their input and suggestions. Representatives from the DOE told us more.
Oscar B At ACC Today Anglican Cathedral College students got a rare treat from the one and only Oscar B. The soca artist performed at the school this afternoon. But aside from the jump up, he also shared a message with the kids. Here is more from the free campus concert.
CITCO Opens New Offices, Present and Former Mayors Serenade Each Other The Belize City council officially declared open its newly renovated offices at the commercial center this evening. The ceremony finished about 45 minutes ago - and when we went we heard the former mayor and the current mayor volleying bouquets at each other:
All Hail The Patriots
Last night, the tribute to Belizean Patriots was held at the Bliss Center.
22 persons were honoured, 19 with meritorious service awards and three with orders of distinction.
Channel 5
2 Dead, 6 Injured as Scaffold Collapses Inside Civic Center A tragic accident occurred before noon today inside the Belize Civic Center; two persons succumbed and others were injured and in a critical condition at the K.H.M.H. While the number [...]
BIL confirms death of two workmen at Civic Center This afternoon, the Belize Infrastructure Limited issued a release on the mishap at the Civic Center. BIL confirms that two persons died and four others were injured in the accident [...]
Day 7 in Search for Adamir Choc The family of missing nineteen-year-old Adamir Choc remains hopeful. Today, they extended their search along the Belize River, seven days after the teenager was last seen alive leaving a nightclub. [...]
A San Pedro student also goes missing Even as the family of Adamir Choc continues to desperately look for her in the Belmopan area, another family is reporting a missing member. In San Pedro, a fourteen-year-old student, [...]
Is PSU’s Hilltop Headquarters Being Sold Off Once Again? Is the Belmopan headquarters of the Public Service Union up for sale once again? A social media post on September eleventh by Real Estate Belize lists the one acre Hilltop [...]
Will Danny Mason’s Witness Take the Stand in Murder Trial? The trial of accused murderer William “Danny” Mason and four others charged jointly for beheading Pastor Llewellyn Lucas in July 2016, has been adjourned until September eighteenth, while the Supreme [...]
A 17 year old is accused of unlawful sex with a 13 year old A teenager, who turns eighteen years this Saturday, was granted Supreme Court bail today for unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor. The Galen University student is accused of illegal sex [...]
Kareem Francis scrambles to post bail Tonight twenty-nine-year old Kareem Francis, who has beaten more than one murder charge in the past, remains in police custody until he can pay an old fine then post bail [...]
Troy Hyde is granted bail but unable to meet conditions After a week on remand at the Belize Central Prison, accused of being a member of a gang, thirty-two-year old murder suspect, Troy Dion Hyde, a resident of Belize City, [...]
YWCA and Haven House receive considerable donation from Digi Two organizations got a boost of ten thousand dollars each to advance the range of programmes they offer to the public. The Young Women’s Christian Association will be using the [...]
Jason Rivers moves up at B.E.L. Belize Electricity Limited today announced the promotion of Jason Rivers as General Manager of Finance, Procurement and Inventory Management with effect from September first, 2019. Rivers rose up the ranks [...]
Ivan Tesecum to officially take over as CEO at BTL Rochus Schrieber’s tenure is coming to an end at B.T.L. He abruptly resigned the high paying job in July opening the way for the appointment of Ivan Tesecum, who was [...]
Sound Fest 2019 at the Big Birds Isle The eighteenth annual Sound Fest, a celebration of Belizean musicians organized by the Association for Belizean Artists First, kicks off tonight at the Birds Isle and promises a heavy line-up [...]
City Hall Moves to its New Home City Hall is moving to its new headquarters. The City Council will now be operating at the former commercial centre in the downtown area of the City. Renovations took time [...]
Tribute to twenty-two Belizean patriots The tribute to Belizean Patriots was held at the Bliss auditorium on Thursday night. The ceremony is incorporated in the Independence celebrations to recognize Belizeans who have made a positive [...]
Amandala
Four foreigners remanded for drug plane landing On Sunday night, September 8, Belize’s national security apparatus swung into high gear as police and soldiers acted upon intelligence that a drug plane had left Venezuela and that it might be landing somewhere in the country.
The resulting police operations resulted in the nabbing of 6 persons, all foreign nationals, and the plane, with its cargo of 41 bales of cocaine that had landed on the Belize Coastal Road, at about Mile 7 in the southern part of the Belize District.
This afternoon, four out of those six foreign nationals were taken to the Belize City Magistrate’s Court to be arraigned on criminal charges.
Adamira Choc, 19, missing, after getting into vehicle outside nightclub On Friday night, Adamira Choc, 19, of Maya Mopan, and two female friends of hers went out for a night of party and socializing in Belmopan, went to several night clubs and then to a bar in Las Flores, Belmopan, where her friends became involved in an altercation with a woman, and they, her friends, left hastily without notifying her.
When Adamira realized at closing time that she was alone, she frantically began to look for her friends, who were no longer at the club.
After standing outside the club for some time, she decided to get into a vehicle, presumably after being offered a ride home. Adamira has not been seen since she got into the vehicle. She has been missing now for 6 days, and a massive search is underway to find her.
Belizeans celebrate 221st anniversary of the Battle of St. George’s Caye The story of the emerging country of Belize has its origin in the 1798 Battle of St. George’s Caye, between the Spaniards and the British settlers and their slaves.
On Tuesday, Belizeans celebrated the 221st anniversary of the Battle of St. George’s Caye with the traditional ceremony at the Memorial Park under this year’s theme: “From Mayan grandeur to modern glory, together let’s shape the Belizean story.” One of the highlights of the morning’s ceremony was the crowning of the incoming Queen of the Bay, Kimberly Santos, who was crowned by the outgoing Queen of the Bay, Jenny Lee Cruz. Singer Radiance Thompson serenaded the queens with the popular song, “Queen of the Bay”.
Reynaldo Verde, Deputy Director of Belize Tax Services, nabbed in US on extortion charge: FBI The newly amalgamated Income Tax and General Sales Tax (GST) Department, which is now known as Belize Tax Services, has become the focus of negative public scrutiny after the country received a national and international black-eye when its Deputy Director, Reynaldo Verde, who traveled to Brussels on official business, was nabbed by Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents and charged with extortion and attempted extortion as he was transiting the US on his return trip home.
An FBI release issued today, Monday, September 9, 2019, said, “The FBI announces the arrest of Reynaldo Verde, 46, of the country of Belize, by complaint for his alleged interference with commerce by means of extortion and attempted extortion.”
William Mason, primary accused in beheading murder, makes tearful dock statement As the murder trial of William Danny Mason and his four co-accused, Terence Fernandez, Ashton Vanegas, Keiron Fernandez and Ernest Castillo entered its defense phase, today the court heard from Mason, who is believed to have been the mastermind behind the 2016 beheading murder of Dangriga Pastor Llewellyn Lucas.
When Supreme Court Justice Antoinette Moore explained the three defense options available to him — one, you could go on the witness stand and give sworn evidence and be subjected to cross examination; you can make a dock statement and you will not have to answer any questions, though a dock statement carries less weight than if you were to give evidence and be cross examined; or thirdly, you can stay where you are and not say anything.
Mayor Bernard Wagner’s September 10 address There is a story of origin about this day, and to me that story is unlike any other. What we know is that on September 10, 1798, the Spaniards, after several failed efforts, made one final attempt at claiming our Belize. On that day a battle ensued, and our forefathers, whom we so admirably call the “Baymen”, thwarted these efforts and deterred the Spaniards permanently. As a result, we celebrate today as one of the key historical events leading up to an independent Belize. HIP HIP HOORAY!
I refer to this tale as “unlike any other” because the Baymen were mainly enslaved blacks fighting alongside their white masters.
Corozal F.A. launches Opening Season Youth Tournaments 2019-2020 On, Sunday, September 8, the Corozal Football Association (CFA) launched its CFA Opening Season Youth Tournament 2019-2020. It all took place at the Carolina Football Field in Carolina Village, Corozal District. This year, we started our new journey with three youth tournaments i.e. U10 (5 teams), U13 (7 teams) and U20 (7 teams).
Our office is very grateful to the community at large for making this tournament possible and a total success. Seeing the big smile in each of the participants gave us that assurance that we made their day and surely a success. All of this was possible, thanks to our Chairman, Mr. Mario Casanova; Mr. Frank Sutherland; Mr. Louis Arcurio; and me, Mr. Vasquez.
Sailing Association holds 9th National Championship Regatta The Belize Sailing Association (BzSA) held its ninth National Championship Regatta in Consejo Shores on September 7 and 8 for the Optimist and Laser Classes. This brings our sailing season to a close.
The winner of the Optimist Championship Regatta is recognized with his/her name being placed on the Dennis Bradley perpetual trophy; and the top Optimist and Laser sailors who participated in all five (5) of BzSA’s Ranking Regattas throughout the year are awarded. The five regattas this year were held in Buttonwood Bay, Baron Bliss (Belize City), Corozal, Caye Caulker and our Nationals (Consejo).
Dangriga sports stats – Carl Ramos Stadium, PLB showdown this Sunday, 7 pts vs 7 pts, Wagiya vs San Pedro Pirates As anticipated by the fans, the Dangriga Basketball Association (DBA) Finals Matchup will be the two undefeated teams in the league, Hopkins Assassins versus Harlem Shockers. If you were at the Russell Chiste Garcia Auditorium on Saturday night, you would’ve gotten to see two intense yet competitive semifinal games. Both games finished with a 3-point deficit, where Hopkins Assassins and Harlem Shockers were victorious in their respective games. Who will be DBA U-23 Basketball Champions?
FFB Youth Inter-District Tournaments update; Male U-15 and U-17 Finals set for September 28 The Football Federation of Belize (FFB) Female U-15 and U-17 tournaments have entered their playoff stage, while the Male U-15 and U-17 tournaments have reached their Finals, which are scheduled to be held at the FFB Stadium on September 28. At the People’s Stadium, Orange Walk clipped Cayo, 1-0, on a goal by Josefin Reyes (52’).
Here at the MCC Grounds, visiting Stann Creek bombed Belize, 9-0, with goals from Shendra Casimiro (14’), Shamika Lambey (22’ & 40’), Cenia Apolonio (29’), Jessie McLaughlin (37’) and Khalydia Velasquez (49’ & 64’), and also benefited from own goals by Belize’s Alexia Estell (38’ OG) and Amberlin Dawson (48’ OG).
Editorial: PM should apologize for corruption and other wrongs It is hard to believe that a person who threw his hat into the political ring around forty years ago, and has kept it there up to this day, has no concern for what his country will say about him after he heads off into the sunset. It has to be that the politician who expressed no concern for his legacy, was tongue-in-cheek, frustrated, or misguided.
If Prime Minister Dean Oliver Barrow entered politics with no concern for the quality of service he would give to the Belizean people, then he didn’t tell the Belizean people the truth. We believed that it was our interests which he and his party were intent on protecting, when he railed against the then ruling People’s United Party (PUP) and all their deeds which he said would ruin the country.
From The Publisher The hellacious pressure from Washington that the South American republic of Venezuela has been experiencing is not only because the United States of America, the largest economy and most powerful military in the world, wants to control the Venezuelan petroleum reserves, possibly the planet’s most abundant, but because of a gut fear white Americans have, especially in the Southern, Confederate, formerly slave-holding states, a gut fear which goes way back to the Haitian Revolution of 1791.
Had oil prices remained over $100 a barrel instead of dropping to less than half that, and had Comandante Hugo Chavez remained alive, countries like Belize in this Central American and Caribbean region of the world would have been in a much better position economically, because the Americans would have had to make at least a token effort to match the aid Chavez was dishing out so lavishly to the region, a region which is not considered white by the Confederate states.
The incompleteness theorem Dear Editor,
The incompleteness theorem of Kurt Godel, a mathematician, proved, using logic, a branch of maths, that (1) All systems with rules are either incomplete or contain contradictions, and (2) a system cannot correctly assess itself. I use these 2 mathematical axioms to discuss the state of representative democracy globally.
Firstly, the state of the political dilemma of the United States (US), the world’s most powerful democracy, is a validation of those principles. Most of the world is taken aback by US President Donald Trump’s “America first and don’t worry about no one else” political philosophy.
Research professor warns about disrupting sediments in the New River without study first
Dear Editor,
We are sharing information received from Dr. Guy Lanza, Research Professor, Department of Environmental and Forest Biology (ESF), State University of New York, Syracuse, NY whom we have consulted over the years concerning the Chalillo Dam and the Macal River.
Yesterday, we sent him a copy of the government press release, “Department of the Environment Provides Update on the New River Situation”. He contacted us today saying that the disruption of the sediments in the New River could release other toxic elements trapped in the sediments. He warned that, “They really should sample and analyze the sediments before they aerate to get some sense of the danger to the health of the people and the ecosystem.”
Questioning JC and the anti-Queens If Brother JC Arzu were to stop calling for the Queen to hand up her throne in Belize, I would be his number one disciple. The brother really has a lot of major league talent. I don’t know if he was at the top of his class when he was in school, but if he wasn’t, I bet he would have been if he had wanted to. The wisdom of JC is on par with anyone in the world, except for his fault.
Corruption of the system or the people? Before social media I don’t think news ever travelled so fast, with such quick opportunity to give feedback. Social media is a platform also used to exploit people, bully others, advocate for issues and just connect with friends far and near. It has its good and bad aspects, but one sure benefit is the lightning speed with which news travels.
Almost at the drop of a hat one can be aware of the latest news and likewise give a reaction. Such was the case this week when on the eve of all our celebrations leading up to the commemoration of the 221st anniversary of the Battle of Saint George’s Caye Day, Belizeans learnt about the arrest of the Deputy Director General of the Belize Tax Service —formerly the General Sales Tax (GST) Department.
Foreigners and government of Juan Orlando Hernández want to dispossess lands of Garífunas Behind the tourism projects where the marriage of foreign capital and the country’s elites merge, the rights of the Garifuna people are in constant danger, which are intended to be guaranteed by using the armed bodies of the State of Honduras to contain their defense. In Garífuna territory they have built a millionaire hotel complex and luxury golf courses, one of them the “Indura Hotel” that belongs to the Hilton “Curio Collection”; built on threats, harassment and human rights abuses of 157,000 Garifuna families, depriving them of their ancestral and agricultural lands, located in Barra Vieja, Cayo Santa Marta, located in Tornabé, department of Atlántida.
Soca Moca Mas Band wins Carnival Road March The highly anticipated 2019 Carnival Road March was held in Belize City on Saturday afternoon, September 7, and it lived up to its hype. Thousands of people lined its designated route, from Caesar Ridge Road to the Marion Jones Sports Complex on Princess Margaret Drive, and 10 bands participated in one of the biggest events in the September celebrations, and in the country.
The bands did not fail to excite the crowd.
The revelers were elegant in their costumes and danced with confidence.
There were judging stations along the route of the parade, and the bands were judged based on established criteria, some of which included dance moves, the attractiveness of the costumes, and the sturdiness of the costumes.
Literacy Day celebrated in Belize World Literacy Day is held annually in the first week of September to highlight the changes and improvements made worldwide in literacy development and on the issues surrounding adult literacy and child literacy.
Literacy Day was celebrated in Belize on Friday, September 6, this year and St. Martin De Porres RC School, located on Partridge Street, held many activities to celebrate the day.
Christopher Chi, 13, missing; body found decomposing Last Friday, a Jasmine Alert was issued to notify the public of the disappearance of Christopher Chi, 13, of Yo Creek.
According to reports, at about 5:30 Friday evening, Chi’s elder brother saw him get on a motorcycle with a man who was known to him and his family, and they drove away.
When the boy failed to come home, the family began to get frantic and went to the police, and a search to find him began. The Jasmine Alert was also issued, declaring that Chi was in danger.
Suicide Prevention Flag raised at Wesley College World Suicide Prevention Day will be observed in Belize on Tuesday, September 10. It is a day of hope, to remind the public that no one should die by suicide, that those who desire to take their lives can be helped.
The theme for this year’s suicide prevention day activities is “Working Together to Prevent Suicide.”
Today, Monday, September 9, the Suicide Prevention Day Flag was raised during a ceremony at Wesley College on Yarborough Road in Belize City, and flags will also be raised at high school compounds throughout the country, at small ceremonies.
LOVE FM
Who is responsible for Civic Center tragedy?
Often times it takes tragedy such as the one at the Civic Centre for officials to pay attention at the laws broken and the need for policies. Perhaps the biggest question to emerge from this tragedy is whether or not the men had their hard hats and gears considering the safety hazards they faced at …
2 men dead and 4 injured in Civic Center accident
Two men are dead and four more injured after they fell off a scaffold inside the Belize Civic Centre. Roque Martinez Jimenez and Elrington Stuart lost their lives just after eleven o’clock this morning when six men stood atop a 50-foot scaffold attending to the air conditioning units inside the civic. Love News was on …
Belize International Film Festival kicked off with Sprinter
Last night, the movie Sprinter kicked off the opening of the fourteen session of the Belize International Film Festival. It is an inspirational movie depicting a young Jamaican whose exceptional track and field ability was able to change his life; but not before multiple setbacks and challenges. Love news spoke with Suzette Zayden, the Director …
The search for Choc continues
19-year-old Adamir Choc remains missing as the search by family and friends continues. Choc was at E & L Bar in Belmopan on Saturday, September 7. She was last seen getting into an SUV outside the establishment. Since leaving her house for the club on that night, she has not returned home. Cayo Correspondent, Fem …
IOM assisting Belize with National Migration and Development Policy
In June, the International Organization for Migration, IOM, conducted a study on migration in Belize. Today, the preliminary findings of that study were presented to key stakeholders. Love News spoke with Marcelo Pisani, the Regional Director for Central America, who said that a final report will be made based on the findings. Marcelo Pisani, IOM …
National Strategic Plan aims to increase survival rate and control cancer
With cancer being one of the leading causes of death in Belize, a national consultation is being held to develop a national strategic plan to address the problem. Love News spoke with Dr. Marvin Manzanero, the Director of Health Services at the Ministry of Health, who said that the strategic plan also takes into consideration …
BTB launches “Did you know” campaign
The Belize Tourism Board has embarked on the second phase of a campaign dubbed “Did you know”. The campaign seeks to acquaint landlords, managers of resorts, hotels, and guest houses with the requirements that must be met before advertising one’s property in any marketing platform such as Airbnb. Love News spoke with Jacqui Santos-Locke, the …
Showcasing Belizean Culture
A Belizean woman is representing Belize in a cultural forum hosted by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Florencia Castillo was invited by UNESCO to showcase various Belizean cuisine. Castillo is currently in Italy and we were able to speak to her on her experience and journey. Florencia Castillo, Belize Representative for …
Minor charged for the murder of Christopher Chi
Tonight, the Chi family in Yo Creek Village, Orange Walk, may finally have some semblance of closure. Police have charged a minor for the murder of 14-year-old Christopher Chi. The 16-year-old charged is also from Yo Creek Village. Police would not release any other details on the arrest since the accused is a minor. Chi …
Military Parade held in Belmopan
As part of the September Celebrations, the third annual Military Parade was held in Belmopan. It is a sight to take in as the defence forces come together for a display of strength and unity. Cayo Correspondent, Fem Cruz, was at the parade and brought the highlights.
Maya Heroes Day honors Belize’s ancestors Drawing on a fierce pride and wanting to honor those who came before us, the Northern Maya Association of Belize celebrated Maya Heroes Day 2019. The third annual celebration was held on Saturday, August 31, 2019 in Orange Walk Town, and saw a wonderful mix of symbolic rituals and activities that shine a light on the rich history of our Maya people.
A ceremonial Maya Cardinal Points Ritual added to the air of reverence for our forefathers, led by Ms. Felicita Cantun. A prayer for each cardinal point, highlighted by the drumbeat in the background, blessed the entire area for the day.
Caye Caulker: The closest thing to paradise I've ever seen Pulling up to Caye Caulker in Belize, there was one resounding first impression running through my mind: This. Is. Paradise.
Whenever I arrive in a new place I like to make a conscious effort to track my first impressions. I usually try and compare the place to others I’ve been so I can relate it to something in my mind. I was prepared for Caye Caulker to be a bit like Gili T just off of Bali, because I knew it was a small island with beautiful beaches and no cars.
This place really is a freaking dream. The buildings were MADE for Instagram — cute pastel colours, stilted or propped up on blocks, cute Instagrammable signs. They knew exactly what they were doing with the aesthetics in this place! The streets are so quaint, lined with palm trees and flags. People whip around on golf carts or bikes or foot, because it takes about 3 mins to get from east to west of the island and the main strip, Front Street, takes about 10 mins.
From A – Z at the New Belize Medical Associates A new style of medical care has come to Ambergris Caye. We now have the option to get state of the art diagnostic testing and treatment. Belize Medical Associates has been providing services since June 17th and was recently inaugurated September 7th. There is also a salon on the premises so you can leave looking great in addition to getting your health in order. The new facility offers: consultations, lab tests, x-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs, and will be expanding its services in a timely manner. There is also a well-stocked pharmacy onsite. If they do not have what you need, they can order it from their Belize City location.
The full-time doctor in charge is well-known and loved Dr. Renae Reasa (Sersland). BMA will also have weekly rotating featured specialists. This will save patients time and money as the doctors are doing the flying.
International Sources
Storm-weary regions on alert again as Tropical Storm Humberto gains strength Residents and officials along the southeastern coast of the United States are once again on alert for a brewing tropical system in the Atlantic, just over a week after Hurricane Dorian lashed the region.
AccuWeather meteorologists are closely monitoring a mass of clouds, downpours and gusty thunderstorms moving northwestward over the Bahamas that evolved into Tropical Storm Humberto late Friday evening.
As of 11 p.m. EDT Friday, Tropical Storm Humberto was located about 130 miles east-southeast of the Dorian-battered Great Abaco Island and had maximum sustained winds of 40 mph. The National Hurricane Center said a hurricane hunter aircraft was investigating the disturbance and has found that the center is forming farther to the east than pondered earlier in the day.
Transparent BPO to Open Contact Center in Belmopan, Belize Early 2020 Transparent BPO, a nearshore contact center and business process outsourcer, today announced plans to open a contact center, it's fourth, in Belmopan, Belize in early 2020. The expansion marks the first time the company will have operations outside Belize City.
Belmopan, the nation's capital, is located in Cayo, a district in the western part of the country that borders Guatemala. Cayo is the second most populous of the country's six districts; Belmopan is the third-largest city in the country, behind Belize City and San Ignacio, also located in Cayo.
addo, Inc. Fundraiser Benefits Liberty Children's Home Premier sales and marketing firm Vaddo, Inc. recently partnered with fitness company Orangetheory for a fundraiser to benefit Liberty Children's Home, an organization that assists underprivileged children in Belize.
The fitness-oriented event – in which 33 participants worked out, broke a sweat, and pushed their limits for a cause – raised $10,000 to benefit children living in an orphanage in Belize. While Belize is known for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, approximately half of the Central American country's children are living below the poverty line.
Videos
Did You Know Program: Registering Accommodations for Renumeration, 1.5min. The Belize Tourism Board has launched the second phase of its Did You Know (DYK) campaign, which is aimed at increasing awareness among hoteliers, persons who own a home and rent rooms or businesses providing accommodation for remuneration purposes of the need to register with the Registrar of Hotels at the BTB.
3rd Annual Military Parade in Belmopan, 3min. As part of the September Celebrations, the third annual Military Parade was held in Belmopan. It is a sight to take in as the defence forces come together for a display of strength and unity. Cayo Correspondent, Fem Cruz, was at the parade and brought the highlights.
min.
Corozal's Best Ever Rum Ribs and Rice Tasting Contest 2019, 7.5min. On September 13, 2019, Corozal's Best Best Ever Rum, Rice, Ribs and Rice Tasting contest 2019 was held inside the Corozal Civic Center. I had the opportunity to be part of this event. Herber NARVAEZ won the new record with 35 chicken feet.
CW’s Belize Trip Video 2019, 13min. Took me 7 weeks to finally have enough free time to edit and upload my Belize Trip Video: Sharks, Turtles, Spotted Eagle Rays, Moray Eels, Swim-thrus, cave tubing, yacht jumping, and mayan ruins highlight this awesome trip on the Belize Aggressor IV with Aggressor Adventures!
A day at Caye Caulker, 13min. Caye Caulker is a small Caribbean island off the coast of Belize. It’s divided by a narrow channel called the Split, where there’s a bar and a sandy beach. To the south is the island’s only settlement, known as Caye Caulker Village. The north of the island is home to dense mangrove forest and diverse birdlife, protected by a forest reserve. The Caye Caulker Marine Reserve has dive sites on the Belize Barrier Reef.
The Ya’axché Show, 15min. Agroforestry is a climate-smart farming practice that diversifies income, helps protect forests and soils, supports wildlife, and secures food for farming families.
Ya’axché has been promoting agroforestry since 2004 at a small scale level in the Maya Golden Landscape - our area of work in southern Belize. Ten years later, in 2014, we began a mega project to grow cacao in a 936 acre agroforestry concession in Maya Mountain North Forest Reserve, a first for Belize.
On The Ya’axché Show to chat with Sayuri Tzul was Eugenio Ah (Sustainable Agriculture Coordinator) and Gustavo Requena (Community Outreach & Livelihoods Director), and behind the scenes was Maximiliano Caal (Marketing & Communications Manager).
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.
The San Pedro Sun
Elda the Warrior On August 20th, two members of American Crocodile Education Sanctuary’s (ACES) team witnessed a man feed a wild American crocodile frozen chicken in a sealed plastic bag. The croc disappeared beneath the surface with the indigestible “treat” before anyone could stop it.
As the team watched in sorrow, the man tried to calm them, claiming the bag was 'biodegradable' and 'not harmful to the animal.' What this man does not know is that biodegradable items must have an ideal environment to begin the degradation process, one that includes UV light and oxygen, both of which are not found in a crocodile’s stomach. Alarmed by the information that this “treat” has been given to this croc on a regular basis, our team and volunteers set out over the course of the next week in the mornings and evenings in an attempt to capture the croc and flush her stomach to expel the accumulated trash before any blockages became life-threatening.
Samuel Haynes Institute of Excellence Holds End-of-Summer Ceremony The Samuel Haynes Institute for Excellence (SHIE) held an End-of-Summer Ceremony in Belize City on Saturday, August 24th. The ceremony saw the attendance of approximately 300 people, 200 of whom were children of the SHIE. Primarily an afterschool program for at-risk children in Belize City, SHIE also has programs throughout the summer to keep children engaged in academics, music, art, and sports.
SHIE President Barbara Elrington believes that children are the future of our country, so we need to take priority in them. Thus, she dedicates time to the organization. "Our Children, Our Future, Our Priority. Children are our most precious assets, and we must provide a better education for them.”
Literacy Day 2019 focuses on Multilingualism Under the theme “Literacy and Multilingualism,” International Literacy Day 2019 was celebrated in Belize by honoring literacy and multilingualism. Annually observed on September 8th, this year’s event was held on Friday, September 6th to ensure that schoolchildren were a part of the celebration.
The Ministry of Education, in conjunction with students San Pedro Roman Catholic School (SPRCS), New Horizons Seventh Day Adventist School and Holy Cross Anglican School (HCAS) met up at the San Pedro Town Library grounds for a short ceremony. Master of Ceremonies Philip Ramsey led the event by encouraging the gathered students to embrace the various languages spoken in tiny Belize.
Belize to lead regional plastic litter clean up Belize will serve as the test-case incubator to develop solutions and a viable action plan to clean up marine plastic litter and plastic waste control on land. This was one of the major outcomes of a high-level regional dialogue held with the support of the Commonwealth Litter Programme (CliP) at the Belize Best Western Biltmore Plaza Hotel in Belize City last Thursday and Friday, September 5th and 6th.
Chief Environmental Officer Martin Alegria said a scientific approach was best, with scientific monitoring to quantify and measure the impact of plastic litter throughout the marine eco-system, to provide accurate evidence to guide decisions on policy. The other participants from CARICOM, Central America and other parts of the Commonwealth agreed.
Ambergris Today
Close Encounters At Sea (Survival Stories) Pt.2 In this article (Part 2) I want to document real close encounters of San Pedranos that we may remember for generations. They are real stories that have been told throughout the years. They were a big deal back then, when local fishermen and divers lacked the modern equipment, technology and medical services were scarce on the island. Enjoy this two-part article with incredible stories about our local fishermen.
Ministry Of Tourism & Civil Aviation Hosts Familiarization Trip At The OAS Adjacency Zone The Ministry of Tourism & Civil Aviation (MTCA) and El Instituto Guatemalteco de Turismo (INGUAT) hosted a 2019 Sellers Networking, Route Reconnaissance & Border Crossing Overview Meeting and Familiarization Trip on September 2nd and 3rd, 2019 at the OAS Adjacency Zone in Benque Viejo Del Carmen, Cayo, Belize.
PIC OF THE WEEK: Underwater Selfie At Lighthouse Reef Atoll "When selfies were just called 'No one wants to take my picture'," posts Amigos Del Mar Divemaster John Romero on his Instagram account. He shares with us a selfie that he took while diving the beautiful waters at Lighthouse Reef Atoll, Belize Barrier Reef. Check out more of John's Amazing pictures on Instagram @johnmromero
Various Belizean Sources
San Pedro Clean & Green Cleanup TODAY is our 1 hour cleanup. Please tell a friend and make plans to join us. I have a big announcement tomorrow that you don't want to miss! Plus, PUR Boutique Cabanas & Taco Bar is giving out free drink coupons to those who participate in tomorrow's cleanup.
Did You Know Program: Registering Accommodations for Renumeration
The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) this week launched the second phase of its Did You Know (DYK) campaign, which is aimed at increasing awareness among hoteliers, persons who own a home and rent rooms or businesses providing accommodation for remuneration purposes of the need to register with the Registrar of Hotels at the BTB.
All persons who own or operate a tourist accommodation (such as a room(s) in your home) for cash purposes to any guest, local or foreign, regardless of its location in the country or if you are registered or advertising such room or property with any booking engine or marketing platform such as Airbnb, you must FIRST register with the BTB as mandated by law. Registration with BTB must be done before advertising in any marketing platform.
SBDC Workshop: Managing Employees Inspiring someone to be their best is no easy task. How do you manage for optimum performance? How do you create a motivating environment that encourages people to go beyond their best?
In this workshop, participants learn some of the most powerful leadership and coaching tools available to implement. Implementing this comprehensive system will take you, your key managers, and your people to greater performance and satisfaction!
Presented by:
Ms. Monique Usher, Business Adviser, SBDCBelize, Beltraide.
Location:
BTEC Building, ITVET Campus, Belize City.
Workshop Date:
September 19th, 2019. Time: 9am to 12 noon. Cost: $30.00, Includes snacks and refreshments.
Announcing the re-launch of the Caye Caulker Business Association It is with great expectations of future achievements that we announce the re-formation of the Caye Caulker Business Association (CCBA). This non-profit, non-partisan organization will strive to unite the Caye Caulker business community to speak with one voice on critical economic and social issues facing the island. The rapidly evolving Caye Caulker landscape brings with it larger and more complex issues that will require constant and aggressive monitoring to ensure the continued viability of Caye Caulker for both the residents and visitors. The CCBA seeks to create a forum and facility to harness the energies of the business owners and stakeholders to address these issues. In summary, the CCBA will strive to improve the quality of the business community with an emphasis on its social and environmental responsibilities. The CCBA will strive to leave a better Caye Caulker in its wake. Please see the Mission Statement below.
Macaw in danger The scarlet macaw is Belize’s largest parrot and one of the iconic species found in the Chiquibul Forest. Illegal wildlife trafficking and poaching has been affecting the species for many years. But this year FCD has documented that more than 25 parrots were lost at the hands of Guatemalan poachers. Other Guatemalan communities may well be engaged on this activity; therefore, the losses can well be double or triple. If this trend continues, the species will become
A national census conducted earlier this year showed that Belize has a minimum of 334 individual parrots in the wild. Its main breeding area is known to occur in the Chiquibul Forest, where it then flies across the Main Divide into the Stann Creek District for feeding purposes. Normally the species breeds during the months of March to August. This is the time when the birds are more vulnerable, thus the time when the FCD Research Unit spends its efforts conducting biological monitoring and patrolling the nesting areas. For the 2019 breeding season, a total of 26 eggs were layed in 10 nests, 13 parrots hatched and 10 fledglings left their nest by the end of the season.
Cattle ranching increase along Belize’s western border A spike in cattle ranching along Belize’s western border has been documented over the last 5 years. In March, more than 80 pastures were documented in an area of 90 km of the western border. The increase appears to be occurring more aggressively.
This year FCD has conducted five aerial reconnaissance trips along the western flank of the Vaca Forest Reserve, Chiquibul National Park, Caracol Archaeological Reserve and
Columbia River Forest Reserve. The observations made have been documented and reported to the relevant agencies. Complemented with Landsat images and ground patrols, many of the observations have been validated. Some of the areas observed have not been addressed in the last five years or in some cases over the last ten years. A more aggressive encroachment with more investment appears to be made by Guatemalan groups moving further into the territory. For the Chiquibul Forest, two areas are of top priority.
New Postal Stamps Commemorate Belize-Taiwan Diplomatic Relations The Belize Postal Service released a new set of postage stamps today, September 12, 2019. The stamps commemorate the 30 years of diplomatic relations and friendship shared between Belize and the Republic of China (Taiwan).
This new set of postage stamps is comprised of a 25¢ stamp, a $1.00 stamp, and a $5.00 stamp. The set also includes a souvenir sheet valued at $6.00 and a first-day cover valued at $4.25.
These stamps depict important symbols of the two countries. The 25¢ stamp depicts the flags of Belize and the Republic of China (Taiwan), the $1.00 stamp depicts the Belize Blue Hole and the Jade Mountain of Taiwan, and the $5.00 stamp depicts the national bird of Belize, the Keel-Billed Toucan and the national bird of the Republic of China (Taiwan), the Taiwan Blue Magpie. The souvenir sheet is a combination of the $1.00 and $5.00 stamps on a specially designed sheet.
United States Federal Authorities Detain and Charge Deputy Director of Belize Tax Services Department Reports reaching the Government of Belize are that Mr. Reynaldo Verde, Deputy Director of the newly amalgamated Belize Tax Services Department, was detained by authorities in the United States of America on Saturday, September 7th, 2019.
Mr. Verde was transiting through the United States on his return to Belize from Brussels, after attending a taxation workshop organized by an international tax organization.
In a press release, dated September 9th, 2019, issued by the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Bureau stated that Mr. Verde was arrested by complaint for his alleged interference with commerce by means of extortion and attempted extortion.
My New River perspective Define: Eu·troph·i·ca·tion
‘An excessive richness of nutrients in a lake or other body of water, frequently due to runoff from the land, which causes a dense growth of plant life and death of animal life from lack of oxygen.’ [Google]
Our river is agonizing Orange Walk people
True to form, our culture is such that we have transformed this ecological disaster into another finger-pointing marathon.
If the so-called experts (DOE/ASR/GOB et al) are to be believed, this phenomenon is forty (40) yrs in the making and is the combined result of many unhealthy practices by the community in general. In other words, this nightmare was bound to happen.
Job Vacancy: Capacity Building & Sustainable Tourism Manager Have a passion for sustainability? As the Capacity Building & Sustainable Tourism Manager, you’ll be implementing trainings and sustainable tourism concepts for the tourism industry. Read on for more information.
Paradise Theater playing this weekend:
Anna,
Spiderman: Far From Home,
Lady & the Tramp,
Child's Play.
*Since there's a remake coming in November.. we figured we would play Lady and the Tramp for the young ones who haven't seen the original yet.. it's only playing on Saturday and Sunday. Friday we will be showing Spider-Man Far from Home for a birthday party that is open to the public.. If you'd like to see it earlier than 9pm then Friday is your chance."
ALMAHT’AN AND JUAN DE LA CRUZ PUC One of the first prophetic series given by the Most Holy was the Proclamation of Juan de la Cruz also known as Juan de La Cruz Puc, known among the macehuales (Maasewal) as Santo Almaht'an (The Holy Commandments), perhaps the only document that is preserved of such proclamations and that is had as a book sacred in the communities attached to the cacicazgo of Xcacal Guardia . It was written in 1850, when after the appearance of the Cross, the rebellious Maya were in the process of reorganizing the armed movement; that is why the text is written with a belligerent spirit, which seeks to create awareness of the need to continue the war in which God is already taking part with the macehuales.
Channel 7
Danny Mason's Astounding Dock Statement: He Maintains Innocence and Sobs for Slain Pastor
Since March 12th, William "Danny" Mason, Ashton Vanegas, Keiron Fernandez, Terrence Fernandez, and Ernest Castillo have been on trial for the 2016 beheading murder of Pastor Lewellyn Lucas.
We've been closely following it, and we've brought you regular updates, discussing how DPP Cheryl-Lynn Vidal has presented piece after piece of evidence in her attempts to prove that each of these defendants had a role to play in Pastor Lucas' gruesome death.
Well today, after being accused of being the mastermind behind Pastor Lucas' killing for over 3 years, the now infamous Mr. Mason was given his opportunity to defend himself. There was the suggestion that he might take the stand and give sworn testimony, but when hearing commenced this morning, and he was allowed to speak, he chose, instead, to give a dock statement.
No Charges in Christopher Chi's Callous Killing
Police haven't charged any of the 3 detained persons for Christopher Chi's murder as yet. One suspect is an adult and the other two are minors. Our information is that Chi knew all 3 of the suspects. As we told you last night, Chi's decomposed body was found on the 10th in a culvert on the San Lorenzo road near Orange Walk. He was bludgeoned to death. It is a gruesome end for this teen.
Drug Plane Bust Case Stalled, Two Suspects Still Hospitalized
There isn't any update in the major drug plane bust off the coastal road either. The remaining 2 of the 6 foreigners are still hospitalized but will be charged when they are released. As we told you, 4 of them were charged and arraigned on drug trafficking charges yesterday, they are 69-year-old Mexican Miguel Cruz Meseguer, 43-year-old Ecuadorian Juan Pablo Larrea Cruz; and Hondurans, 51-year-old Carlos Humberto Henriquez Gomez, and 30-year-old David Noe Orellana Discua.
In terms of the bust, it was a well-planned, well-coordinated effort by the Belizean joint law enforcement teams consisting of members from the different security forces.
Adamir Choc's Family Holding on to Hope
And while that missing person's case had a tragic end for 14-year-old Christopher Chi, there are mounting worries for another missing teenager from Western Belize.
She's 19-year-old Adamir Choc from the San Martin area of Belmopan. She was reported missing on Monday, and her family says that they last time she was seen was on September 7th, between 2:30 a.m. and 3 a.m. This footage shows her coming out of a night club, and she then boarded an unknown vehicle.
Since then, her family has been frantically searching for her in Belmopan and all the possible surrounding areas that they could think of. We found them on the trail today, and her uncle spoke with the press about their efforts to locate her:
Police Leaving No Stone Unturned in Choc's Case And today at the press briefing police shared the information they have been able to gather about Choc's disappearance.
ACP Joseph Myvette - Head, N.C.I.B.:
"On Monday police received a report from Elvira Choc who reported that on Saturday her 19 year old daughter Adamir Choc left her residence in San Martin area Belmopan to socialize, and since then she has not returned home. What the police gather so far is that the missing person visited several night clubs in Belmopan and was last seen at a nightclub in the Las Flores area sometime around 3.a.m. on Saturday morning where it was reported that she was picked up by someone in a grey in colour vehicle, Since then her whereabouts are unknown. Police are investigating this matter."
Reynaldo Verde Fired or Not? Public Services Commission to Decide
Today, several days after the local media broke the story, the Government of Belize finally issued a statement on the arrest of Reynaldo Verde, the Deputy Director of the Belize Tax Service Department. As we told you, the FBI has charged him with attempted extortion and interference with commerce by means of extortion.
The GOB press release this morning says, quote, "Reports reaching the Government of Belize are that Mr. Reynaldo Verde was detained by authorities in the United States of America on Saturday, September 7th, 2019.
In a press release, dated September 9th, 2019, issued by the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Bureau stated that Mr. Verde was arrested by complaint for his alleged interference with commerce by means of extortion and attempted extortion. He was later charged for these alleged offenses and it is understood that he pled "not guilty."
New River Task Force in Full Force On Monday's newscast, we showed you the pilot project that the Department of Environment is running to start the rehabilitation of the New River. They've placed surface aerators on strategic parts of the river most affected by the severe pollution afflicting it, and they're trying to inject oxygen back into the water.
While that project runs its course the authorities are exploring other means of trying to restore the river. Today, the Rehabilitation of the New river Task Force met today. The members of the task force were updated by the DOE personnel on all the works done so far to try to improve the new river's condition.
Two Robbers Snatch Deliverymen Cash and Phone A robbery occurred yesterday at a Chinese store on Flamboyant street. Madisco employees Clinton Abraham and Edilberto Guerra were delivering cigarettes to the store when they were approached by two male persons with firearms. Earlier today Sr. SUPT Hilberto Romero commented on this incident.
Supt. Hilberto Romero - Crimes Investigation Branch:
"There was a robbery on Flamboyant Street two complainants namely Clinton Abraham and Edilberto Guerra reported that whilst doing business for MADISCO at a Chinese store at that location..."
Cops Charge Two Men in Corozal Chinese Store Robbery On Monday we told you that Moses Moore and Juan Canek had pleaded guilty to firearm offenses concerning two robberies that had occurred in the Corozal district. Both men were sentenced to 2 years imprisonment. We also told you about Darren Carrias, the taxi the man whose services the pair used when returning to Belize City and in whose car the weapons used in the robberies were found.
At the time of that report Carrias, Pearl Locke and 2 others had been arrested at a Sandhill checkpoint but released after the guilty pleas of Moore and Canek were accepted.
On Duty Security Guard Shot in Placencia A security guard was shot while on duty at A&L Hardware and Construction in The Maya Beach community on the Placencia peninsula. It happened on Monday night at 9:00. 52 year old Jose Gomez, a Salvadoran watchman of Santa Cruz Village, had been on duty when two male persons approached him. One of the individuals pulled out a firearm and fired two shots at him before escaping in a white van.
The Answers Are on the Screen: Immigration Dept. Gets New TV's Today the International Organization for Migration donated $3,000 US dollars worth of flat screen televisions to the Immigration department. Now these TV's aren't for the immigration officers and staff to crack back and watch movies, they will be set up at borders countrywide showing information about a migration app that you can download on your phone and other relevant information for travelers. The handing over ceremony was held at the Philip Goldson International Airport where one of the television screens was installed. Here is more from the ceremony.
New Migration Policy to be Finalized in 18 Months Aside from this new TV public awareness initiative, the immigration department is working on a new migration policy. CEO Zuniga told us more.
Edmond Zuniga - CEO, Immigration and Refugees:
"One of the big initiatives that we are dealing with and taking on is the development of a migration policy. It is really going to be the first for Belize. We are well underway. Two consultancies have been completed, one that does legal review of all the laws related to migration as well as a desk data gathering to find out where migrants are, what they are doing etc. so the next step from here is the actual development of the terms of reference for the policy itself then we write the policy and hopefully we can launch it soon."
The Long Road to Refugee Status A couple weeks ago we told you how Special Envoy for Women and Children Kim Simplis Barrow met with two groups of asylum seekers to better understand their plight and rally for a more lenient refugee vetting process. Well, today the CEO with responsibility for immigration and refugees told us more about the role of the refugee eligibility committee and why they can't be too lax.
Edmond Zuniga - CEO, Immigration and Refugees:
"We set up, we activated our refugee eligibility committee in 2015 when we saw another spike in persons coming particularly from El Salvador since that time we have established..."
Human Smuggling: A Complex Issue We report on many cases of human smuggling where authorities intercept caravans of migrants who illegally enter the country. Well the immigration department have to deal directly with these cases and CEO Zuniga says it is a challenge because the number of cases are increasing.
Edmond Zuniga - CEO, Immigration and Refugees:
"We are a member of the A-Tips committee headed by the Ministry of Human Development and they work jointly with the police getting information and dealing with issue of human trafficking, smuggling is a matter for immigration because it is people coming into the country illegally and so we do arrest and detain and take people to court or order them to leave depending on what might be the case."
Strong Regional Collaboration to Combat Migration Problems And the only way to address this cross-border issue is through collaboration with Central American countries as well as those in other regions.
Marcelo Pisani - Regional Director, IOM:
"Belize is a country of destination especially for Salvadorians but it is also a country of transit people that can't go through Guatemala sometimes go to Belize to reach Mexico so there are many challenges for examples we have in the border between Belize and Mexico, a capacity for those kids who are coming to school in Belize so migration has many faces."
A Book about Belizeans and Our Food Belizean anthropologist Dr. Lyra Spang is touring the country's universities to present her New book Byte Yu Finga. The book was released by the UWI press back in April. Today Dr. Spang held a presentation for the students at St. John's Junior College in which she discussed the research which formed the basis of the book.
Scarlet Macaw Population Decreases, Cattle Ranching Increases The Friends For Conservation and Development (FCD) issued two press releases today.
We'll start off with their report that one of the Chiqibul's most iconic species may be in danger of disappearing. Illegal wildlife trafficking and poaching has affected the scarlet macaw for many years. But this year FCD has documented that more than 25 of Belize's largest parrots were lost at the hands of Guatemalan poachers. Maintaining a credible deterrence against poachers across the landscape has been a difficult task due to limited resources. Other Guatemalan communities may well be engaged in this activity; therefore, the losses could well be double or triple. If this trend continues, the species could become extinct in a relatively short period.
Cops Haven't Forgiven nor Forgotten San Victor Mob Yesterday at the meet and greet in Corozal, Commissioner Chester Williams gave us an update on the San Victor showdown. Two police officers were injured while two civilians were shot during the contraband bust. Well, Williams says his officers acted in self-defense when they shot the two villagers and that the two residents will be charged when they are released from the hospital in Mexico.
Chester Williams - Commissioner of Police:
"That matter is still being looked at. We're still looking at the circumstances as well as looking for those persons who were involved and who may have also caused injured to officers..."
Cop Charged for Shooting Man in Head gets Promoted Inspector Dennis Lopez: He was charged with attempted murder and dangerous harm in the June 2010 shooting of city resident Stephen Buckley. Buckley was wrongfully shot in the head. Fast forward 10 years later, Lopez still hasn't gotten his trial date in that case but he what he is getting is a promotion to Deputy Commander in Corozal. Williams discussed the overall police shuffle in the north specifically Lopez's appointment.
Chester Williams - Commissioner of Police:
"My good friend Mr. Luis Casteanos Senior Superintended will be retiring this month. So he goes off on leave on the 25th of September and so there must be that transition with the person who succeeds him..."
Is Edmond Castro Team Faber or Team Saldivar? Deputy Prime Minister and aspiring U.D.P. Leader Patrick Faber officially launched his bid to lead the United Democratic Party weeks ago. Faber’s convention was held at the Belize City Civic [...]
Edmond Castro Cagey About Joshua Perdomo’s $40K Write-Off The government received much backlash after the Barrow Administration, during a sitting of the House of Representatives, tabled a motion through which a forty thousand dollars loan owed by Joshua [...]
Castro Voted in Favor of Write-Off While Castro attempted to end the interview, the media pressed on the issue and challenged him on some facts including that he was part of the House Committee which reviewed [...]
A Frantic Search for Adamir Choc, Six Days Later It has been six days since nineteen-year-old Adamir Choc was last seen by family and friends and a frantic search to locate the Belmopan resident is underway tonight in the [...]
No Word From Missing Teenager in Belmopan According to Assistant Commissioner of Police Joseph Myvett, an official report was filed with Belmopan police on September eleventh. Choc’s cell phone was reportedly left with a friend and all [...]
National Fire Service to Obtain Fire Truck from Government of India Newly appointed fire chief, Colin Gillett, after having completed a tour of most of the National Fire Service’s facilities countrywide, says he is determined to have the service adequately equipped. [...]
Teenager on remand for Arson Tonight, teenager, Vince Timmons is on remand at the Belize Central Prison on three criminal offenses, including an indictable offense of arson. Late on Wednesday, Timmons appeared before two different [...]
Robbers target Madisco employees in Belize City Police are currently looking for two persons who robbed two men while conducting business in Belize City. Superintendent Hilberto Romero told the media today that on Wednesday, armed men held [...]
Celebrating 30 Years of Belize-Taiwan Friendship After thirty years of diplomatic relations with Taiwan, Belize continues to benefit significantly from various programmes for its support to the Republic of China. Days ago, the government signed a [...]
Information platform launched to promote safe migration Border points across the country will be airing infomercials on migration which is a global problem that is growing in Belize. The International Organization for Migration has donated television sets [...]
NEMO Keeping an Eye on Forming Storms As the Bahamas recovers from the devastation of Hurricane Dorian, a brewing storm system is posing a new threat to the northern islands of the Bahamas. Meteorologists say it could [...]
A Ride Across the World for Peace Dnyaneshwar Yewotkar has traveled across seventeen countries and has been joined by American national Christopher Vitale as they bike across the world to spread the message of peace. The ride [...]
Healthy Living takes a look at Glaucoma By now you know that a yearly eye test is advised to maintain and protect your vision. But an eye exam can also detect diseases like Glaucoma that can rob [...]
LOVE FM
Illegal cattle ranching another problem for FCD
The Friends for Conservation (FCD) has also sounded the alarm against illegal cattle ranches. An obscene amount of illegal areas was discovered along the western border, likely the doings of Guatemalan poachers. According to a release from FCD, more than 80 pastures were found, which shows a spike in the last five years. Rafael Manzanero, …
No one charged for the murder of Chritopher Chi
Tonight there is still no one charged for the murder of 14-year-old Christopher Chi. While investigators have detained three persons, an adult and two minors, charges are yet to be laid. Chi, who had dropped out of the traditional school system, was found dead off the San Lorenzo Road in the Orange Walk District on …
Family of Adamir Choc continue their search
19-year-old Adamir Choc remains missing at this time. The young woman was last seen getting into an SUV outside E & L Bar in Belmopan. Cayo Correspondent Fem Cruz is following this story. Fem Cruz, Cayo Correspondent, Love FM News: The search for 19 year old Adamir Choc, a past student of Belmopan Comprehensive High …
Guatemalan poachers in the Chiquibul target Scarlet Macaws
Guatemalan poachers inside the Chiquibul Forest are responsible for the loss of more than twenty-five Scarlet Macaws. This is according to Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD) as they express concerns over the illegal wildlife trafficking. A release from the FCD noted that in a national consensus conducted this year, it was found that Belize …
Ministry of Health pulls falsified pills out the market
The Office of the Director of Health Services issued a statement yesterday alerting citizens that a stash of counterfeit medication was pulled off the market. The medication, namely, Cialis, is known to treat erectile dysfunction and, in one instance, the falsified pills were being sold at forty-five dollars per tablet. According to the Director of …
Jason Anderson charged with attempted murder
21-year-old Jason Horace Anderson, aka “Jason Williams Jr”, was arraigned yesterday before Senior Magistrate, Aretha Ford. He was read six charges, two counts of attempted murder, two counts of use of deadly means of harm and two counts of grievous harm. The charges stem from a shooting incident on September 8 in which Mark Phillips …
Adam Joseph pleaded guilty to handling stolen goods
25-year-old Adam Joseph, a technician of Belize City was accused of pawning a woman’s stolen jewellery. Joseph appeared before Magistrate Emmerson Banner where he pleaded guilty to the single charge of handling stolen goods. For his guilty plea, Magistrate Banner imposed a non-custodial sentence and fined him five hundred dollars plus five dollars cost of …
Diving in Belize Whenever people think of diving in Belize, the first place that comes to mind is the Great Blue Hole. However, there are so many other beautiful dive sites that can be explored in Belize.
Belize is home to the largest barrier reef in the western hemisphere, which is approximately 180 miles long. Huge right? Not only that, The Barrier reef is also home to over 100 types of corals and 500 types of fish species including some of the most rare types. Let’s just say it is a very colorful underwater garden which will leave you in awe! If you’re traveling to dive then Belize is definitely the place for you. Book a diving trip with any of the dive companies around the country. Be sure to dive responsibly and protect the natural beauty that Belize has to offer.
Guest Blog - Life as an Expat - Part II We had four months to get everything in order and make the move. In addition to the logistics of making all the travel arrangements, there was arranging transportation for our fur babies, a Siberian Husky and 3 cats. We also needed to figure out what essential items from home needed to accompany us and how to get them there. I had to have music and home entertainment equipment as well as a computer and printer. Annette needed certain linens and kitchen things and more of her personal belongings than I did. Then there was the task of deciding what to do with all of our STUFF. Fortunately we had downsized a year earlier into a rented townhouse in anticipation of the change. You’ll also need to determine your banking needs, medical support if that’s a factor and how to communicate with friends and loved ones while living abroad.
International Sources
Beyond Potential Tropical Cyclone 9: Tropical disturbance in central Atlantic bears watching While there is growing concern over Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine near the Bahamas, there is a second tropical wave in the open Atlantic that forecasters are scrutinizing.
This is the same feature that emerged from the west coast of Africa earlier this week.
As of early Friday morning, there were no signs of organization with this Cabo Verde system, but there is plenty of time for that to occur and AccuWeather meteorologists believe that conditions are generally conducive for development in the coming days.
Caricom Silent While Refined Sugar Quarrel Rages It might be working feverishly behind the scenes to cool tempers and iron out differences as it normally does in these matters, but the secretariat for regional trade bloc Caricom is not saying anything publicly about the running battle between regional sugar producers on the one hand, and manufacturers and national governments.
The long-standing quarrel involves Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago constantly seeking suspension of the community rules requiring the imposition of a 40 per cent per cent common external tariff, the CET, on the importation of refined or white sugar from outside the region mainly for use in food- and drink, manufacturing processes.
Videos
George Price Highway S-Curve work in Cayo, 1min. The things that go unnoticed are usually the things that make the biggest difference - the things that show we're making progress as a country!
Book - Bite Yuh Finga, 46min. Dr. Lyra Spang is a food researcher who has recently launched her book - Bite Yuh Finga. She talked with us about her findings and what it reveals about her perspectives on our local cuisine and wider cultural pluralism. She was joined by Rolando Cocom, Senior Research & Education Officer with ISCR -NICH to reflect on how this type of research and conversation is important to and contributes to understanding of our local culture.
Expo Belize Market Place 2019 takes place 14th-15th September, 29min. The Belize Chamber of Commerce & Industry Expo Belize Market Place 2019 takes place 14th-15th September at the Marion Jones Sporting Complex. The venue had changed and so there are more businesses who will be participating in the event. We talked with Yorshabell Cattouse, Expo Coordinator, about what to expect from participants. She was joined by two of the vendors who gave a preview of their products. On our couch:
Yorshabell Cattouse – Expo Coordinator, Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Nicolas Medina – Medina’s Furniture (Household furniture/wood work).
Luis Garcia - Painter.
Juice Dive Ltd. - first and only cold press juice shop in Belize, 32min. Juice Dive Ltd. is the first and only cold press juice shop in Belize. The juices have no sugar and no water added to it and everything on their menu can be made gluten free. The main location is based in San Pedro Belize and the other in Belize City at the brown sugar mall. Their chefs were our guests to share a few of the menu items. They shared the recipe for a vegetarian tacos and a spinach smoothie. On set:
Marjeli Alvarado - Co-Owner, Juice Dive.
Sergio Garcia - Chef.
Jonelle Humes - Chef (Belize Branch).
The Belize National Diabetes Self-Care Project, 30min. The Belize National Diabetes Self-Care Project is a community focused initiative to support diabetics with the necessary information and skills to improve self-care practices to improve their health. We spoke with representatives of the project about its objectives and how you can access the support. On our couch:
Cornelio Marfield - Project Director, Belize National Diabetes Self-Care Project.
Lynette Valerio - Financial Officer, Belize National Diabetes Self-Care Project.
Export Belize of Belgrade 2019, 16min. Export Belize of Beltraide is conducting a Electronic Press Kit (EPK) competition for Musicians. An electronic press kit is an important tool for artist to market themselves and to present their credentials for potential bookings. The competition allows you to enter to be one of five musicians who will get their EPK produced by Beltraide. The competition runs from September 9th to October 4th. We got all the details for those interested in entering the competition. On our couch:
Nicole Zetina - Export Business Advisor,
C Wills - Musician.
Belize Bus Association & Government of Belize, 34min. An agreement was reached between the Belize Bus Association and the Government of Belize in regards to local and foreign bus operations. Our guests spoke with us about the details of the agreement and how it will improve the transport service. On our couch:
Thomas Shaw - President, Belize Bus Association.
Mark Humes - President, Bus Terminal Water Association.
Miss Universe Belize 2019, 19min. Destinee Arnold won the coveted title as the new Miss Universe Belize 2019.We spoke with the beauty ambassador about the pageant experience and how she hopes to leave her mark during her reign.
The Belize September Festival Weekend promoters - Reggae artist, Sizzla Kalonji, 24min. There's a big concert slated for 9th night at the Marin Jones Sports Complex featuring preeminent Reggae artist, Sizzla Kalonji. The Belize September Festival Weekend promoters brought two of the headliners to talk with us about what you can expect from the show. On our couch:
Sizzla Kalonji - Artist,
Vanessa Bling -Artist,.
Jacob Leslie - Representative, Belize September Festival Weekend.
Celebrating 10 Years of Marriage in BELIZE, 15min. Belize is my absolute new favorite place ever. Under the ocean swimming with Sharks and then high up in the mountains swimming in a natural water hole.
Exploring Caye Caulker Belize: The food, kiteboarding and Lazy Lizard, 5.5min. Part 3 of the travel videos to Belize. In this video I leave San Pedro and head on over to Caye Caulker. I stayed at the Tropical Paradise Hotel and Restaurant. I check out the Lazy Lizard and get some seafood at one of the street barbeques. I check out kite explorer and get a good kiteboarding season at the Split in Caye Caulker .
Belize City Carnival Vlog 2019 !!!, 27min. Belize city 2019 carnival ..... noting but pour vibe .. I always look forward to seeing carnival in Belize city ! I really enjoyed myself and had a blast.
The new Human Development Building constructed by the Downtown Rejuvenation Project has been completed, .5min. The purpose of the building will be to continue the work with women as in the previous Womens' Department Building. One of the special features of this building is that it has a meditation pond at the rear where women visiting the building will be able to relax near the pond and find an area where they may remove themselves from the hustle and bustle of regular life.
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.
The San Pedro Sun
Deputy Tax Service Director Reynaldo Verde detained by FBI on charges of extortion A senior tax administrator of the Government of Belize remains in the United States of America (USA) after he was detained by the American authorities while transiting through that country on Saturday, September 7th. 46-year-old Reynaldo Verde, Belize’s Deputy Tax Service Director, is accused of alleged interference with commerce by means of extortion and attempted extortion. The senior public officer is also known to San Pedro Town, where in March 2013, he was involved in a shooting incident that left one man injured.
San Pedro Town celebrates the 221st Anniversary of the Battle of St. George’s Caye with a new queen and colorful parade On Tuesday, September 10th, the 221st Anniversary of the Battle of the St. George’s Caye was observed on La Isla Bonita with a uniform parade and the presentation of the recently elected Miss San Pedro Litzy Castillo Guillen.
Other activities included a fire engine parade the evening before the official ceremonies at the Louis Sylvestre Sporting Complex and an all-day sporting event at the Boca del Rio Park.
Signalling the Battle of St. George’s Caye celebration, a fire engine parade took place through San Pedro Town shortly after 6PM on Monday, September 9th.
CARICOM Development Fund (CDF) provides US$3.3M in concessional support to the Government of Belize to implement its Growth and Sustainable Development Strategy The CARICOM Development Fund (CDF), the Government of Belize (GOB) and the Development Finance Corporation (DFC) this week executed a Loan Agreement to seal the approval of a US$3.0 million (BZE$6.0 million) Credit Line and two Grant Agreements totalling US$0.3million (BZE$0.6 million) under the CDF’s Second Cycle Country Assistance Program (CAP) for Belize.
The Credit Line, which will be administered by the DFC, seeks to improve access to developmental financing for productive sector support consistent with the Government’s Growth and Sustainable Development Strategy 2016- 2019 (GSDS) and DFC’s Strategic Development Plan (SDP) – Strategy 2021: Building Resilience against Climate Change and Economic volatility.
GOB and the EXIM Bank of Taiwan Sign a Loan Agreement for the Financing of the Corozal-Sarteneja Road Project This morning in Belize City, the Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, signed a loan agreement between the Government of Belize and the Export-Import Bank of the Republic of China (Taiwan) (EXIM Bank) in the sum of US$50M for the upgrading of the Corozal-Sarteneja Road and the construction of the Pueblo Nuevo and Laguna Seca bridges.
Witnessing the signing was His Excellency Remus Li-Kou Chen, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to Belize and the Hon. Rene Montero, Minister of Works of the Government of Belize.
Taiwan Supports the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belize through the Institutional Strengthening of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of the Central American Countries This morning, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs received support from the Republic of China (Taiwan) through the Institutional Strengthening of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of the Central American Countries. Taiwan has provided support to SICA member states under this program over the last decade.
Through this project, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs seeks to upgrade its I.T. equipment by replacing its current computers with new and modern ones; procuring additional ancillary office equipment; and renovating the existing office space in the Permanent Mission of Belize in New York.
Belize’s Carnival Road March 2019 highlights tradition, music and creativity As part of the September Celebrations, Belize City celebrated its annual Carnival Road March 2019 with creativity, revelry and music in the streets on Saturday, September 7th. The anticipated event featured a colourful parade with elaborate costumes that continues to keep the Caribbean Carnival tradition alive.
The Carnival season had participants preparing for months, and the festive mood exploded early on Saturday with the traditional morning Jouvert. As early as 4AM, revellers took to the street in a parade that went on until the break of dawn.
Ambergris Today
Belize Receives Support From Taiwan Through Institutional Strengthening Of The Ministry Of Foreign Affairs On Monday, September 9, 2019, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs received support from the Republic of China (Taiwan) through the Institutional Strengthening of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of the Central American Countries. Taiwan has provided support to SICA member states under this program over the last decade.
Inauguration Of Belize Medical Associates San Pedro Clinic The Belize Medical Associates San Pedro Clinic was officially inaugurated on Saturday, September 7, 2019. The clinic is located in Northern San Pedro on the premises of Grand Caribe Resort and they have partnered to bring specialized medical care on the island for both local residents and to the growing tourism sector.
The official ribbon cutting was carried out by Grand Caribe Manager Sean Feinstein, Belize Medical Associates Board Chairman Dr. Marcelo Coyi, Resident Doctor of BMA San Pedro Clinic Dr. Renae Sersland and Mayor Daniel Guerrero.
Various Belizean Sources
Winners of the Renewable Energy Survey raffle BEL congratulates the winners of the Renewable Energy Survey raffle and thanks all others who took the time to participate in the survey.
Banyan Bay’s Farmer's Market Meet us this Saturday for another edition of The Market from 10am-1pm. Live music by Rob and about 10 concessionaires/local vendors will be on hand. Find deals on food, drinks, local art, wood carvings, fresh produce, Cindys Pantry Items, Zeske’s Arts & Crafts and much more..
Paint N Splash See you this week at from 2-4pm Thursday to paint this “Private Island”.
National Coastal and Riverways Cleanup 2019 We invite you join us on Saturday, September 28th as we come together to keep our beaches and coastline plastic and litter free!
Contact your local field representative for more information.
Partners: Ocean Conservancy, Scout Association of Belize, Belize Department of the Environment - DOE, Belize Audubon Society, Coastal Zone Management Authority & Institute, and Belize Solid Waste Management Authority.
First ever ‘Youth Parliament’ Sub Committee of the first ever ‘Youth Parliament’ scheduled to occur on November 20, 2019 in celebration of International Children’s Day, called to order.
Representatives from the MOE,
UNICEF Belize, NCFC, Special Envoy Belize , The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Department of Youth Services, RESTORE Belize and The Ministry of Local Government met at the National Assembly to strategically plan for this exciting and historic event!
This initiative will have the participation of 31 students to form the Youth Parliament at the National Assembly and will also have a full gallery audience comprised of students from across Belize.
Second Annual Innovation and Tourism Talk The Central America Tourism Agency (CATA) with the support of the BTIA and Belize Tourism Board will be hosting the Second Annual Innovation and Tourism Talk on September 30th, 2019 at the Radisson Fort George Hotel in Belize City. The aim of the event is to facilitate a regional training program focused on strengthening Central America’s competitiveness through digital tourism marketing. Key Presenters include: Google and More Turismo.
Participatory Hygiene And Hygiene Transformation Belize Red Cross, Corozal Branch - Community, Schools and Belize Red Cross Volunteers working together for a cleaner, healthier and Vector free Chan Chen Village, Corozal. Participatory Hygiene And Hygiene Transformation (PHAST) happenning in schools. Murals being painted as a constant reminder of good hygiene behaviours. Vector borne diseases, BE GONE!!!
Join the Belize Defence Force Great Opportunity for our youth. Belize Defence Force (BDF) Volunteer Element will conduct RECRUITING DRIVE in Corozal on Saturday, October 5th at the Corozal Drill Hall on San Antonio Road (just before BWS office) from 7:00 a.m.
Corozal Town Council Municipal Bazaar This community event is growing very fast. Please continue to support it. The Corozal Town Council cordially invites everyone to its Municipal Bazaar in-front of the Central Park and Town Council. Don´t miss out this Friday, September 13th from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.- it's our Municipal Bazaar - come and take advantage of the many great deals.
Pink Ribbon Gala 2019 The Belmopan Cancer Society's 2019 Pink Ribbon Gala will be at the George Price Centre on Saturday, October 19th. The proceeds will go towards assisting cancer patients in the area.
"Support the Belmopan Cancer Society by contributing to a worthy cause. The Belmopan Cancer Society 2nd Annual Pink Ribbon Gala, October 19th at the George Price Center for Peace and Development. Funds from this fundraising event will be used to assist Cancer patients in Belmopan and surrounding areas and the upkeep of the first phase of the Beverly Swasey Multipurpose Cancer Center. Contact us at 623-0202 to secure your tickets."
Channel 7
Cops Charge 4 of the Drug Plane 6 in Major Coastal Road Bust
On Monday's newscast, we told you about that big drug bust that police made on Sunday just after midnight. They managed to intercept 6 foreigners who landed an illegal aircraft in an area located off the Coastal Road, at mile 7. That plane was carrying 41 bails of cocaine.
We know a little more about the incident tonight, which we'll share with you, but first, we take you to the Belize City Magistrate's Court this afternoon. That's where 69-year-old Mexican Miguel Cruz Meseguer; the Ecuadoran, 43-year-old Juan Pablo Larrea Cruz; and Hondurans, 51-year-old Carlos Humberto Henriquez Gomez, and 30-year-old David Noe Orellana Discua were all arraigned this afternoon.
Teenager Meets Gruesome End in San Lorenzo Orange Walk
The body of Christopher Chi was found last night on San Lorenzo road near Orange Walk. Three persons of interest including 2 minors are currently detained in relation to his murder. Our news team headed to Orange Walk this morning and spoke to the family of the boy, as they surveyed the cement culvert where the child's decomposed body was found. Cherisse Halsall reports.
At first glance, it may look like a discarded rubber glove but it is in fact waterlogged skin that peeled of the body of a deceased fourteen year old child.
Three days ago the body of Christian Chi was stuffed into this water filled drain by the three men that murder him.
Chinese Grocer Robbed and Killed in Bella Vista Store
And there is more bad news that happened on the 10th holiday, a well-known Bella Vista Village Chinese shop owner was shot and killed last night. It happened around 7:10. Jingzhang Xu also known as "Grandpa" was inside his Chens store when an armed masked man dressed in camouflage wear stormed in and demanded money. Xu did not comply and apparently put up a fight and he was shot dead. Today Commissioner of Police Chester Williams told us what investigators know so far.
"Sometime yesterday, Independence police were called to Chen's Store in Bella Vista Village, Stann Creek District, whereupon arrival they saw the lifeless body of a Chinese businessman Mr. Xu with apparent gunshot injury to the neck..."
La Immaculada School Far from Immaculate but...Getting There Today the classrooms at La Immaculada were pretty much full as students returned to school. As we have reported, the New River stench was just too unbearable for the kids and teachers so they had to cancel classes for a couples days last week. Well, it seems that being on the school grounds was manageable today. We dropped by the school and the principal Lenny Umana told us while it is a welcomed reprieve from the odor, they are remaining alert and monitoring the situation to ensure the comfort and well-being of the students and staff.
850 students showed up to school today out of the over one thousand students.
DOE Keeping a Close Eye on Aerators in New River
Personnel from the Department of the Environment were also on the ground today in Orange Walk checking on their aerators. According to environmental officer Anthony Mai, since they installed the aerators, they have been seeing some slight improvements in the water on the surface. But they still have to observe and monitor the effects of the aerators in the water. Here is more from Mai.
Anthony Mai, Environmental Officer - DOE:
"Immediately we realized that it showed some improvement in terms of the clarity of the water..."
Red, White and...more Red in 10th Parade It was the tenth day of September yesterday, and at the end of tonight's news, we'll show you highlights of the parade and the official ceremony.
But it wasn't just a ceremonial event, we picked up some strong and surprising political signals in the parade - which has always been a showcase for UDP muscle.
First, we saw Deputy Leader Patrick Faber out in force with his Collet constituents, but his crowd, very notably, did not include any national political figures.
His rival for leader, on the other hand, Belmopan rep John Saldivar seems to have come down to the city to make a statement on Faber's home turf. Saldivar was in Albert Rep Tracey Taegar Panton's larger and more animated crowd.
Big Day in Mason Trial Stalled On Monday's newscast before the 10th of September Holiday, we told you about the dock statement that Keiron Fernandez made in his murder trial.
For several months now, he, William "Danny" Mason, Ashton Vanegas, Terrence Fernandez, and Ernest Castillo have all been facing a trial without a jury before Justice Antoinette Moore for the 2016 beheading murder of Pastor Lewellyn Lucas. In that time, the 5 defendants have been listening intently to all the evidence that DPP Cheryl-Lynn Vidal has been submitting in the prosecution of this trial, to show that they all had a hand in Pastor Lucas' murder.
Reynaldo Verde Gets 'Red' Light from FBI for Extortion
In our previous newscast, we told you how Reynaldo Verde, one of the most senior tax administrators in Belize, was detained by the FBI last Saturday. They took him into custody while he was transiting through the US; he was returning from an official trip to Brussels, where he attended an international tax conference.
Well, the FBI has released a statement to note Verde's arrest. Dated February 9th, the Feds said, quote, "The FBI announces the arrest of Reynaldo Verde, 46, of the country of Belize, by complaint for his alleged interference with commerce by means of extortion and attempted extortion. Verde, who is the Assistant Commissioner for the Department of General Sales Tax for the Government of Belize, was arrested without incident by the FBI at Washington Dulles International Airport on Saturday... End quote.
Where are you Adamir? Belmopan Girl Missing
A 19 year old girl from Belmopan has been missing for 5 days. Adamir Choc went out clubbing on Friday night and has yet to return home. She was last seen leaving E & L's night club at around 3 in the morning. Her friends reportedly left her behind after an altercation in the bar. According to Choc's family, surveillance footage from the club captured her getting into a taxi, going up the hill toward La Cabana, and later returning to E& L's where she may have gotten into an SUV.
Cops get Chummy with Corozal Folks at Meet and Greet Today police were in Corozal for a meet and greet session. Commissioner of Police Chester Williams discussed the importance of establishing a relationship with residents there and the plans to make the community safer.
Man Charged for Attempted Murder in Daylight Shooting
Tonight, 21-year-old Jason Anderson, a resident of Supal Street, is at the Belize Central Prison after being accused of carrying out a brazen, broad-daylight shooting last weekend, which left 2 men injured
According to police at around 11:45 a.m. on Sunday, September 8th, 20-year-old Luquan Flowers and 20-year-old Mark Phillips were standing near the corner of George Street and Kut Avenue. That's when a silver SUV approached them from the direction of Kut Avenue, and when the vehicle came close enough, one of its occupants pulled out a gun and fired several shots at the two young men.
DIGILEARN: What's in it for everyone? On Friday's news we told you about the signing of the Digi-learn Master Service Agreement between Digi and the Ministry of Education. In it, BTL commits to provide an undisclosed number of laptop computers and bandwidth, while the Ministry will provide the educational component of the very ambitious program.
And while Digilearn is now formally rolling out to high schools after a pilot earlier this year, what really does it mean for the ministry, the telecoms company - and, most importantly, the students?
Dengue Cases Down but Remain Alert And, now, we have an update on the latest Dengue statistics and trends in Belize. There are 1,770 confirmed cases with 2.3% of documented cases being classified as severe. - but health experts say that with the projected increase in rainfall over the next few weeks - those numbers could spike up.
Making Literacy Matter
2 years ago, the Ministry of Education declared literacy as a national priority for Belize's primary school children. That's after they realized that the students had deficiencies in their ability to read and properly comprehend.
Since then, they've worked diligently on strategies to try and assist students countrywide to improve on this very important area of their education. They believe that they've found several methods that work, and so today, they held a workshop with educators from the different districts to hopefully disseminate techniques to teach reading to the nation's children.
Celebrating Belize, the 10th and The Queen of the Bay
Aside from the crime news, the 10th official ceremony and festivities still brightened the day. The ceremony to commemorate the Battle of St. George's Caye Day was held at the Memorial Park in Belize City and of course the main highlight of the ceremony was the crowning of the Queen of the Bay. We start with the Queen's installation and then to City Mayor Bernard Wagner's and Deputy PM Patrick Faber's speeches.
A Chinese Store Owner is Gunned Down in Bella Vista In the village of Bella Vista in the Toledo District, a Chinese grocer was the second victim of murder during the Tenth holiday. Shortly after seven o’clock on Tuesday night, [...]
One Suspect in Custody for Murder of Chinese Businessman This afternoon, Commissioner of Police Chester Williams spoke briefly on the murder of Jingzhang Wu. He also confirmed that a suspect has been detained for the deadly shooting. Chester [...]
1,341 Kilos of Cocaine! According to Commissioner of Police Chester Williams, the two hospitalized suspects will be criminally charged once they are discharged from the K.H.M.H. When the six men were apprehended on Sunday [...]
Illegal Airstrips; Here, There, Everywhere? The illegal plane landing took place on an illegal airstrip on private property off the Coastal Road in the Belize District. It is believed that the men legally entered through [...]
Reynaldo Verde facing Extortion charges in the US There are further details tonight on the arrest of senior government official, Reynaldo Verde. Verde is the deputy director of the Belize Tax Service Department. Over the past weekend he [...]
Aerators Reviving the New River An expert from the Department of Environmental and Forest Biology at the State University of New York says that the quick-fix solution to the New River crisis may cause more [...]
Kraal road resident is charged for George Street shooting A well-known Kraal Road resident, who is no stranger to police, picked up a second attempted murder charge today in court for Sunday morning’s shooting on George Street when two [...]
Family of Adamira Choc desperately looking for her A Belmopan family is desperately looking for their missing teen, Adamira Choc. She has been missing for days and the Choc’s have organized search parties in the hope of finding [...]
Classes resume at La Inmaculada Children were back in class today at La Inmaculada R.C. School, Orange Walk Town. According to School Principal Lenny Umaña, the day went by without incident. The enrolment is more [...]
Change in Corozal Police Formation Raises Eyebrows There is more from the police; a change in command in the Corozal Police Formation is planned. Regional Commander Senior Superintendent Luis Castellanos is weeks away from retirement so Senior [...]
Commissioner of Police listens to residents in Corozal Town The Commissioner of Police Chester Williams addressed a number of issues today; he was in Corozal Town as he makes his rounds joining officers in different municipalities in their weekly [...]
The importance of Literacy Literacy is important to life skills and while there are improvements since the Literacy programme was launched, students are still challenged with understanding what they read. This morning, the Ministry [...]
Tenth Day Speeches Two hundred and twenty-one years ago, British loggers known as Baymen successfully warded off a flotilla of Spanish ships during the famous Battle of Saint George’s Caye. That day, September [...]
Citizens celebrate the 10th with gusto The citizen’s parade took off after the official ceremonies at the Memorial Park. This year, it did not appear as grand as previous years. Some government ministers walked the parade [...]
Soca Moca is the winner of Carnival Road March 2019 The activities for this year’s Carnival festivities culminated on Saturday September seventh, 2019 with a massive road march which was viewed by thousands. Participating were over a dozen mas bands [...]
LOVE FM
American author donates children book to teachers in Belize
American author Tonia Allen Gould has agreed to donate copies of her children’s novel, “Samuel T. Moore of Corte Magore” to educators in Belize to promote literacy among students. Gould, who resides in California, USA is working closely with the Ministry of Education in Belize to promote the book to children. At a book launch …
Belizeans celebrate 221 anniversary of the Battle of St. George’s Caye
The Baymen won the Battle of St. George’s Caye on September 10, 1798. The heroic efforts of the Baymen continues to be highlighted with each passing year. Yesterday marked the 221st anniversary of the Battle of St. George’s Caye with ceremonies held countrywide. In Belize City, the ceremony was held at the Memorial Park with …
Kimberly Santos starts her reign as Queen of the Bay
19-year-old Kimberly Santos made history as the 74th Queen of the Bay. She joins a list of confident, gracious young ladies who previously held the title. Love News was feeling a bit nostalgic, and decided to look back on the past five queens that preceded Santos. We’ll start at Monisha Stuart, who held the title …
75-year-old man robbed in Benque
A 75-year-old money changer was held up and robbed early this morning on Cemetery Street in the Riverside area of Benque Viejo Del Carmen, Cayo District. Correspondent Fem Cruz filed this report. Jorge Gonzales a money lender and a resident of Riverside Street Benque Viejo Del Carmen was held up at knifepoint and robbed. Love …
Businessman killed in robbery
A businessman is dead after he was robbed inside his establishment last night in Bella Vista Village, Toledo District. Correspondent Harry Arzu spoke to the landlord who resides on the upper flat of Chen’s Store. Selvin Perez, Owner of Building: “So last night when I went to take a shower I heard a gunshot and …
Electrical fire cancels classes at Nazarene High School
Students of Nazarene High School are out of classes today after a fire inside the administration building occurred yesterday. Love News spoke with Kenneth Mortis of the Fire Department who was on the scene this morning conducting an investigation. Kenneth Mortis, Station Manager: “We got a call of a situation over at the Nazarene Highschool. …
Students’ literacy levels rising
World Literacy Day was celebrated worldwide last week including in Belize. Literacy is an everyday goal and efforts around the country are made in this regard. Today, there was a meeting to discuss ways on improving literacy among the students in the country. Chief Education Officer Carol Babb told us that they have been seeing …
Tragic Story of Christopher Chi
The news of a body found in northern Belize rocked the community of Yo Creek Village, Orange Walk District. Reports began surfacing yesterday mid-afternoon and shortly after the victim was identified as 14-year-old, Christopher Chi. Reporter Naim Borges traveled north for the story. Niam Borges, Love FM News: Residents from Yo Creek Village in Orange …
Does Aeration create more problems in the New River?
The Department of Environment has held meetings, conferences, public presentations and many other forums pertaining to the conditions of the New River and possible solutions. As it stands right now, the river is a milky green color. Reports of dead crocodiles, manatees and fish have continued unabated. The public has been pleading for something to …
US professor warns of the dangers of aerating the New River
While local officials are working at resolving the issue at the New River, the Belize Institute of Environmental Law and Policy (BELPO) has expressed serious concerns over the solution to aerate the water. BELPO sent us a correspondence saying that they have been in contact with Dr. Guy Lanza, a Research Professor at the Department of …
19-year-old Adamir Choc reported missing As the Chi family reels from the burial of their son, Christopher, the Choc family is hoping that 19-year-old Adamir Choc would return home safely. Choc was reported missing over the weekend after she was last seen on Saturday, September 7 in Belmopan. Cayo Correspondent, Fem Cruz, spoke to the family yesterday at the establishment...
Dengue cases decrease Health officials are breathing a bit easier tonight as they are seeing a significant decrease in dengue cases. According to the Ministry of Health, this is the first time in four weeks that they have seen a noted drop. Since September 7, a total of one hundred and thirty-nine new cases were reported, bringing the total number to three thousand one hundred and fifteen cases countrywide...
Men, busted for drugs, made their appearance in court Four of six foreigners appeared in court today following the major drug bust that police made on Sunday, September 8 just off the Coastal Road. 69-year-old, Mexican national, Miguel Cruz Meseguer; 30 year old David Noe Orellano Discua of Honduras; 51 year old Carlos Humberto Henriquez Gomez, also of Honduras and 43-year-old, Juan Pablo Larea Cruz of Ecuador...
Celebrations Take Off in San Pedro for the 10th Day Of September 221 years ago, in a final attempt to take over the area, the Spaniards took on a small but scrappy group of Brits and their slaves. The Spanish basically controlled the entire “New World” at that time. But after 7 days the British prevailed and expelled the Spaniards – and held onto British Honduras (later Belize) for almost 200 more years.
September 10th is a national holiday in Belize and celebrates this battle for independence. In San Pedro, it is a day to party, for many, a day off from work and a day for the uniform parade.
International Sources
New tropical threat may emerge in eastern Gulf of Mexico AccuWeather meteorologists are closely monitoring several features for development across the Atlantic, including one disturbance north of Hispaniola that is raising concern.
A cluster of showers and thunderstorms associated with a broad area of low pressure is currently located over the southern Bahamas, north of Hispaniola. This feature has been designated as Invest 95L.
Tropical development is not expected over the next couple of days as 95L is located in an environment of high wind shear. However, this feature can still bring locally heavy downpours to the Bahamas.
My Sweet Belize Music Video, 5min. Cecil 'Zeebo' has his My Sweet Belize video out, and it's shot mostly around Cayo. It tells a story of community friendship, and much of it takes place at Branch Mouth and along 2nd street. The National Channel produced the video.
"My Sweet Belize by Zeebo ( Roots & Thunder ) Produced by The National Channel.
Directed by: Jose Collado & Trey Cabb"
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.
The San Pedro Sun
San Pedro Pirates F.C fall 4-0 against Mexico’s Atlante F.C Football fanatics in San Pedro Town flocked the Ambergris Stadium on Saturday, September 7th to attend the international friendly match between the current national champions, San Pedro Pirates and the Mexican football club Atlante. The visiting team, hailing from Cancun, Mexico, overcame the island team, dominating most of the game and taking back home the 4-0 victory.
Destinee Arnold will represent Belize at Miss Universe 2019 Roaring Creek’s 26-year-old Destinee Dominique Arnold became the new Miss Universe Belize 2019-2020 on Friday, September 6th in Belize City.
Destinee ArnoldThe pageant to select Belize’s beauty ambassador was held inside the Civic Centre and saw Arnold besting seven other candidates: Destiny Wagner, Markeisha Young, Ryeann Smith, Aarti Sooknandan, Tianney Lamb, Josselyn Cerin and San Pedro’s very own Vivian Noralez. Arnold is the 30th Belizean woman to represent the Jewel in the international Miss Universe beauty pageant, which is taking place in Seoul, South Korea in December of this year.
Ambergris Today
Miss San Pedro Coronation & Battle Of St. George’s Caye Day Celebration Litzy was joined on stage by the other four Miss San Pedro contestants along with Mayor Daniel Guerrero and councilors. They then led the parade from the Sports Field to Boca Del Rio Park followed by Minister Manuel Heredia, Mayor Daniel Guerrero the San Pedro Town Council staff, followed by the many schools of San Pedro including ABC Pre-School, Brighter Tomorrow Pre-School, Little Angels Pre-School, San Pedro Pre-School, The Island Academy, San Pedro RC School, Ambergris Caye Elementary School, Isla Bonita Elementary School, New Horizons SDA School, Holy Cross Anglican School and the San Pedro High School.
Various Belizean Sources
The Belize Network of NGOs (BNN) hereby announces the following new appointments: Dr. Oxaku Tehu Kax'Oxo II (Tropical Rainforest Institute of Belize) has been selected to be BNN’s representative on the University of Belize Board of Trustees for a period of three (3) years. Dr. Kax'Oxo II was born in Washington DC and is a Belizean citizen. His father is from Sierra Leone and his mother is a Cayetano from Stann Creek. He lives in Cristo Rey, Cayo.
Valdemar Andrade (Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association) will represent BNN on the REDD+ Readiness Preparation Project Technical Expert Group. The REDD+ Project will assist Belize to prepare to participate in future REDD+ carbon payment transactions, through a participatory and inclusive process. Project implementation began in early 2017 and will conclude on December 31, 2020.
A body has been found miles off the area of San Lorenzo Road The body is believed to be that of Christopher Chi, the fourteen year old minor who went missing on Friday September 6th at around 5:00 pm from Yo Creek, Orange Walk District. The minor was last seen in the company of an individual on a motorcycle believed to be his friend. While we understand police has interviewed this individual, he has denied the allegations of being with the victim. We will more on this story on Wednesday's newscast.
New River Boat Trip 7th September 2019 I was invited by Friends of the New River (FNR) to go on a boat trip with them and the Department of Environment (DoE) on Saturday 7th September 2019 to observe the state of the New River, and after the boat trip attend a meeting where remediation options would be presented.
This is a factual record of that trip.
Coronation and Ceremony in Corozal Corozal Town Council Held their Coronation and Ceremony this morning in front of Central Park. Then, the 10th Parade was held after the Ceremony in Corozal. Lots of people came out to enjoy this event.
September 10th Celebrations The 221st anniversary of the Battle of St. George's Caye was celebrated today at the Memorial Park in Belize City.
Dr. Jaime Awe selected 'Person of the Year 2019' Renowned Belizean archaeologist, Dr. Jaime Awe, has been selected 'Person of the Year 2019' by the Embassy of Belize in Washington, D.C.
Congratulations Dr. Awe!!
UDP Standard Bearer gets office in Hopeville A short ceremony was held to mark the opening of the UDP Standard Bearer for Toledo East, Dennis Garbutt's office in Hopeville yesterday.
Breaking Belize News
Businessman reportedly shot in robbery down south
Minutes ago there was a shooting in southern Belize.
A Chinese businessman is said to have been fatally shot inside his place of business in Bella Vista, Toledo. […]
FBI issues statement regarding arrest of GST’s Deputy Director General
The United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a statement regarding the arrest of Reynaldo Verde for extortion.
Verde is Belize’s Deputy Director General of the General Sales Tax (GST) Department. […]
Body of missing minor found
The Jasmine Alert program issued a statement a short while ago notifying the public that the body of missing minor, Christopher Chi has been found.
The family and residents had organized a search party and discovered the body. […]
Belize marks 221st anniversary of Battle of St. George’s Caye
This day, acknowledges Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner, is unlike any other.
The naval engagement commemorated this morning as it has been for 221 years, he said, was the start of an even bigger fight for our society. […]
2020 Belize Calendar of FUN Obviously, there is always something to do in Belize, regardless of the date. Whether it’s chillaxing on the beach or hanging out with the locals of Belize. It’s always a great time to be in Belize. However, Belize is also filled with festivals and other amazing events - what do you expect from a culturally rich country like Belize? Check out list the top festivals in Belize, where you can be sure to have an absolutely amazing time!
Tender boat Ride To Belize City, 10min. Once Upon A Table Guin and Caroline take a tender boat to Belize City from the Carnival Vista in search of local Belize shopping and food. This is their journey there on the tender boat.
10th Day of September Song, min. Fr. Bernard Abeling wrote the song: "It was the Tenth Day of September, the 98th Anno Domini". There have been many musical versions of the song, a march, but the words have remained the same. Fr. Abeling was the brother or Dr. Karl Heusner's wife Kate Abeling.
Fr. Abeling was a Jesuit priest in Belize in the early 1900s.
Corozal September 10, 2019 Parade, 8.5min. On September 10, 2019, the Corozal Town Council held their Coronation and Ceremony at the Corozal Central Park. It commenced at 10am. By then, the chairs were filled by a massive crowd from across Corozal to witness this event. Some of the people did enjoy watching Saint George's Caye day Parade 2019.
