February 9, 2020

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, 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

NTUCB demands GOB to implement the UNCAC by the end of February
The Government of Belize signed the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) in December 2016 to assure Belizeans of its commitment to fight corruption. However, almost four years later, UNCAC remains unimplemented, triggering the dissatisfaction of several organizations, including the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB). This organization alleges that widespread corruption in government is what keeps the UNCAC from being implemented and have called on the current leaders to enact it or else face the consequences.

Flu season begins; Common flu can be deadlier than Coronavirus says MOH
While the Ministry of Health (MOH) has announced that the flu season has begun, and is advising Belizeans to take the necessary precautions to avoid becoming ill, the Novel Coronavirus continues to dominate headlines around the world. The current situation has many in fear, focusing on this particular virus and disregarding the same or even more deadly effects of the common cold and flu. The MOH expressed via an email that the common flu is much more deadly than the Coronavirus. According to an online medical journal, the seasonal flu kills as many as 646,000 persons worldwide each year and should be treated as a serious medical issue.

Andre Vega’s Case Heads to the Court of Appeal
The questionable land transaction deal made by Andre Vega, son of former Deputy Prime Minister Gaspar Vega, reaches a turning point as his attorney Estevan Perera filed an appeal on his behalf. To date, Andre Vega has not paid back any of the compensation the government of Belize erroneously awarded him. The compensation stems from Vega’s and attorney at law Sharon Pitts’ acquisition of the land, even though one Mr. Miguel Valencia privately owned it. Once the error was realized, the GOB compensated both Vega and Pitts $400,000 each in an attempt to reacquire the land.

Haven House’s 2020 Male Calendar now being sold at Travellers Liquours
San Pedro residents can now find one of the most talked-about calendars for sale right in town. Yes, the all-male 2020 calendar is on sale and all proceeds go to Haven House, located in Belize City. The non-profit started in 1993 and assists women and their children who are victims of domestic violence. They provide services such as emergency shelter, counseling, court advocacy, referrals and transitional living opportunities.Haven House officially launched its calendar in December 2019.

Various Belizean Sources

Government of Belize Issues Travel Ban for Travelers having Recently Visited China
Given the recent situations with travel history that have been documented upon arrival at the Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport and other points of entry, both the Ministries of Health and Immigration are hereby directing that all travelers who have been in China within 14 days immediately prior to arrival in Belize be denied entry. This directive is an overall provisionary measure to prevent the spread of the novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) to Belize and will remain in place until further notice.

Update on the situation at the Phillip Goldson International Airport
The surveillance team of the Central Health Region and this desk had been alerted of a flight that would be landing in Belize that had 12 passengers with flights originating out of China and the team was prepared to initiate our investigation upon arrival. We can confirm that indeed the flight had 12 persons who had arrived in the US in the latter part of January and who had previously been in China, they all had different departure dates. During their days of stay in the US they have confirmed they visited multiple places as tourists. As per protocol, our concern remains the 14 day period after having departed from China.

Placencia Sidewalk Arts & Craft Festival
15 photos...

NEW IN COROZAL - SALDIVAR'S SUGAR RUSH
We are located on College Road. Same property of Richie's Auto Car Wash. For orders or info, contact 624-7339.

Trade license meeting scheduled for Thursday the 27th in San Ignacio
THE SISE TOWN COUNCIL HEREBY ANNOUNCES ITS FIRST TRADE LICENSE MEETING FOR THIS YEAR! WE HEREBY INVITE ALL BUSINESS OWNERS WITHIN OUR TWIN TOWNS TO BE APART OF THIS MEETING. DATE: FEBRUARY 27TH, 2020. TIME: 9:00 AM PLACE: SISE TOWN COUNCIL CONFERENCE ROOM

The Legend Of Ixchel And Itzamná
Legend has it that in the days when the Ancient Yuumstilo'ob were still mortals there existed a love so deep and pure that its strength created the sun and the moon, the day and the nights and the stars that shine above. Would you like to hear the story? A long time ago, in a land far away, there lived a beautiful woman named Ixchel, whose beauty charmed many men across the lands, including our young hero Itzamná. The charming Itzamná began to dazzle the beautiful and coveted Ixchel and in both grew a mutual love whose destiny was written in the skies.

MAYA LOVE STORY:THE PRINCESS AND THE BEETLE
This is the legend of a beautiful princess whose hair resembled the wings of a swallow. She was called Cuzán, the Maya word for this bird. She was also the favorite daughter of Ahnú Dtundtunxcaán, the Great Lord who was submerged in the skies. As soon as Cuzán was old enough for marriage, her father arranged a union with the son of Halach Uinic of the great city of Nan Chan. Her fiancé was the prince Ek Chapat, future lord of the kingdom. But one day, when the princess went to thank her father for the treasures he had plundered in a recent war which he had given to her, she found her father accompanied by a handsome youth named Chakpol, which means red head, so named because of his flaming red hair.

Channel 7

American national 31-year-old Ariana Iris Jones Bejerano was murdered in San Ignacio last night
And, this morning around 6:00 police received a call from a man who claimed to have found his girlfriend in a pool of blood. That man later walked into San Ignacio Police station to report that he found Jones on the lower flat of her apartment building completley naked, having sustained multiple stab wounds and lying face down in a pool of blood. A small mattress had been thrown on top of her body.

Channel 5

12 year-old boy shot in Belama
A 12 year-old student is hospitalized in a stable condition after he was shot once to the thigh. Around 11:30 p.m. on Friday, Shiloh Coleman was inside his house on Antonio Soberanis Street in Belama Phase One with his mother and grandmother. Information received is that Edalia Cordon and Helen Lords were inside a bedroom with the minor when two gunmen kicked in the backdoor to the house and opened fire at them.

Fatal Road Traffic Accident
News Five has received a report of a fatal traffic accident in Indian Creek area of Toledo District. As more information is made available, we will be updating this post.

Murder in the West
News Five has received information that an American national was murdered in San Ignacio overnight on Friday. Reports are that around 6 a.m. today, San Ignacio Police received information that a woman was discovered dead in an apartment. The woman has since been identified as Ariana Jones Bejerano; she was reportedly found face down in a pool of her own blood. One report is that a mattress was on top of the body.

Amandala

American woman murdered in San Ignacio
A man who claimed to be the boyfriend of Ariana Iris Jones Bejerano, 31, an American national, walked into the San Ignacio Police Station, this morning, and reported that he found her body at her home. The body was naked and lying face down on the floor, with a mattress on top of it. The body had multiple stab wounds. Ariana Iris Jones Bejerano was the wife of Lloyd Bejereno, a San Ignacio man who was murdered last April and was similarly found inside his house.

The Reporter

No Coronavirus Travelers At P.G.I.A – Just MOH Precautions
The surveillance team of the Central Health Region and this desk had been alerted of a flight that would be landing in Belize that had 12 passengers with flights originating out of China and the team was prepared to initiate our investigation upon arrival.

American National Found Dead In San Ignacio Home
First indication of her murder reportedly came from a man at 5:57 this morning via a 911 call to San Ignacio Police. Reports are that Ms Jones was found on the floor inside her bedroom with multiple stab wounds to the upper part of her body, and a small mattress reportedly covered her.

Swing Bridge in Disrepair, Says Mayor
he Belize City Swing Bridge is in a state of disrepair and still needs urgent attention, according to City Mayor, Bernard Wagner. Wagner, who had a working breakfast with the press late last week, said that while repairs done a few months ago on the bridge had surpassed $100,000 in costs, there is need in the immediate future for more repairs, and in the long-term for a replacement.

Two People Died: In RTA On Southern Highway
A man and a woman reportedly died in a traffic accident sometime around 6:00am this morning on the Southern Highway. The victims were reportedly riding in the pan of the pick-up truck that careened off the highway between miles 71 and 72 near the village of Indian Creek.

Policeman Gets Bail For Robbery Charge
Police Constable Nadir Mendoza, 23, was granted bail of $10,000 plus two sureties of the same amount on Friday, for a charge of Robbery.

Breaking Belize News

Media restricted in coverage of UDP National Convention – but BBN will be there!
The decision by the United Democratic Party National Party Council to restrict media access at […]

Wuhan coronavirus death toll rises to over 800 with virus spreading to 24 countries
All around the world, health experts and governments are grappling to deal with the spread […]

Boyfriend reports finding Ariana’s body inside her apartment
The body of American national, Ariana Jones was found this morning in her apartment in […]

Government issues Travel Ban for Travelers that recently visited China
Given the recent situations with travel history that have been documented upon arrival at the […]

Father and daughter die in a fatal road traffic accident this morning
A road traffic accident this morning claimed the lives of a father and daughter from […]

Ministry of Health says passengers cleared by health officials
Earlier today, we reported on a group of travelers arriving at the Philip Goldson International […]

American national found murdered in her apartment in San Ignacio
Authorities are investigating the murder of an American woman that occurred in San Ignacio. The […]

Woman found dead in San Ignacio
Reports to Breaking Belize News are that this morning, authorities found the body of a […]

A tribute to Richard Harrison
The views expressed in this article are those of the writer and not necessarily those of Breaking Belize […]

Minor busted with an unlicensed firearm and ammo
Authorities have arrested and charged a minor for keeping a prohibited firearm and ammunition. Yesterday […]

Twelve Chinese nationals with flu-like symptoms denied entry into Belize
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Blogs

2020 Food Festivals in Belize
What better way to learn about a country and become more culturally aware than trying their food? Welcome to Belize, where there is a merging of cultures and consequently, a melting pot of flavourful, traditional dishes for you to enjoy. Throughout the year, Belize hosts several different food festivals that take place all over the country. So if you’re a foodie or you just love to try new things, then this is definitely for you.

Things To Do, See & Eat In Belmopan, Belize
Belmopan is known as the safest city in Belize. It is an evolving city that sits 250 ft above sea level, near the Belize River Valley, with cool climate conditions at night and a stunning view of the majestic Mountain Pine Ridge mountains. Rise and shine! Start your day bright and early at the local farmers market located near the bus terminal corner of Constitution Drive and Bliss Parade. Meet local vendors and farmers from nearby villages who start setting up their stalls from 4 a.m. with anything from fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, unique spices, local coffee, shoes, jewelry, clothing and much more. Interact with locals, eat authentic Belizean food and get great deals. The market days are Tuesday and Friday.

Visiting Contour Cement Products in Corozal, Belize
Contour Cement Products is a supplier of cement located at #35 Santa Rita Road, Corozal Town, Belize. We are open from Monday to Saturday from 8AM to 5PM. Contour as the word means to shape and outline, with the idea and doing many products for construction and landscaping needs. Contour Cement Products is owned and manage by well-known Belizean entrepreneur Mr. Ruel Hall. It is imperative to mention that Mr. Hall’s motivation is to start his business was because passion he has for his business allows him to express through his work.

Corozal
People tend to be very friendly. Corozal is a small and sleepy town with great views of the bay. If you want to rest, this is a great stop. If you arrive on Sunday, you'll find most businesses closed, although a few of the small restaurants and general stores will be open. There are very few tourists, so it is a good place to see Belize off the beaten track, and consequently, accommodation, food and drink, and other items are cheaper than in better-known places.

International Sources

Drought and hunger: why thousands of Guatemalans are fleeing north
The threat of famine and the battle for dwindling natural resources are increasingly being recognised as major factors in the exodus. Martina García grinds just enough maize kernels to make a handful of tortillas which she serves to her children and grandson for breakfast with a sprinkling of salt. García, 40, must ration the family’s last few sacks of tiny corncobs after drought and prolonged heatwaves linked to the climate emergency devastated crops across Guatemala. As a result, record numbers of subsistence farming families are going hungry: health officials registered more than 15,300 cases of acute malnutrition in children under five last year – up nearly 24% from 2018. It’s the highest number of acute malnutrition cases since 2015, when a severe drought destroyed harvests across Central America.

Simone Biles Has Been Dating Boyfriend Stacey Ervin Jr Since 2017 - Meet the Olympic Gymnast's Beau
Simone Biles' significant other Stacey Ervin Jr. is also a talented gymnast. This is all you need to know about the man that's been her best friend for years. The Olympic champion first revealed her boyfriend on Entertainment Tonight in 2017. The pair have been together since then. Meet 26-year-old Stacey, who graduated in 2015 from the University of Michigan, where he read psychology.

A favorite vacation destination
We've visited most of Europe, North Africa, several of the former eastern European countries, Mexico, Canada, Central America, and Brazil. Our trips have always been a pleasure, but there is a special country we keep going back to: Belize. Here's why: In 1972, while living in Corpus Christi, I had some oil royalty to sell, so I contacted a buyer in Houston. After the sale, he mentioned having just returned from a vacation. "Where'd you go?" Belize, he said. He described a great experience, and after I returned home, Vertis and I were intrigued. Several airlines fly the two-hour flights to Belize City out of Houston. In Belize City, you change planes to a puddle-hopper and 30 minutes later you're in San Pedro, a town of about 1,000 people located on the barrier island of Ambergris Caye.

Treasure Valley travel tale: Belize!
We’d been snorkeling and fishing just beyond a coral reef a couple miles off the Belizean Coast. Just out of sight lay the small fishing village of Hopkins. Sunlight danced along the water as our small wooden fishing boat gently rocked in the clear, blue of the Caribbean. Below, a school of yellow snapper toyed with the sardines that bated our fishing lines. Already, lunch — a catch of snapper and maceral — flopped in five-gallon buckets on the floor of the boat. Suddenly, son-in-law Ryan hollered that something big was on his line. Captain Bert, our local guide and fisherman, shouted instructions. “Don’t jerk like that! You’ll lose it. Jerk the line NOW, Ryan! Jerk! Yes, like that! Give it some line! now bring it in. No! Not like that! Let the rod do the work.”

Feeling Eternally Young on the Sittee River, Belize
My wife, Dolly, and I were in our early 50s when we decided to retire to Central America. We were wildlife photographers and, having spent the best part of 20 years working in Europe and Africa, the American continent beckoned. Belize caught our attention, and held it. It had the stand-out advantage that, as a former British colony, English was its first language. The following year we were on a plane. Just a short vacation, we envisaged, to see what Belize had to offer. A trip down the Sittee River in a small fishing skiff sealed our fate. Morelet’s crocodiles watched us glide by, terrapin heads rose to greet us, parrots flew overhead. Everywhere we looked, huge orange iguanas lay strewn across tree branches, and every palm frond had a night heron or an egret perched upon it. We were surrounded by pristine wildlife that didn’t care about us. That’s a wildlife photographer’s paradise.

Videos

February 8, 2020

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, 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

Letter to the Editor: The Way I See the Equal Opportunities Bill
It is incumbent on me as a citizen and son of the soil to lend my voice to the conversation that I believe is critical and extremely consequential to the health and well-being of my country as I have known it for the past seven decades or so. In spite of the realization that my country has been gradually becoming less recognizable on an annual basis, the memories of my childhood in the City and the society I knew still tug at my heart. My Mother and my Father are buried at Lords Ridge Cemetery and hence, I guess, my reluctance to leave it. They were exemplary patriots and servants of this nation. I offer this cautionary word in honor of them.

Meet our new reporter Julissa Torres!
The San Pedro Sun is pleased to introduce its newest staff reporter, Julissa Torres. She comes from the Orange Walk District and is only weeks into calling San Pedro home. She attended Muffles Junior College, where she explored the humanities and obtained an Associate’s Degree in Law and Psychology.

Tropic Air welcomes new Beechcraft 1900D Aircraft
On January 31st, 2020 Tropic Air welcomed the delivery of its first and brand new 1900D Beechcraft. The model is described as a modern twin-engine, 19 passenger regional airliner and is manned by a crew of two. The Beechcraft arrived at the Philip Goldson International Airport at 4:15pm after a ferry flight from the United States.

SPHS football girls place second at Northern regionals
The San Pedro High School football girls won second place and the boys won third at the Northern Secondary Schools Sports Association (NSSSA) regional football championships held at the Louisiana Government School field in Orange Walk Town last Saturday. The SPHS boys won third place by goal differential, as they had only conceded one goal, while Escuela Secundaria Tecnica Mexico had received three goals from the BHSA boys.

Gregorio Najarro to be sworn in as the new president of the Rotary Club of Ambergris Caye
In the upcoming months, the Rotary Club of Ambergris Caye will be officially swearing in a new president. Taking over the helms from current president Andrew Ashcroft will be Gregorio Najarro, a well-known islander from the Escalante Sub-division south of San Pedro Town. Najarro will start his one year-term in June 2020. Najarro hopes to increase the club’s membership. “I hope to achieve this by promoting Rotary, using the services of the media and every opportunity available to let our islanders see how the club works for the benefit of the community,” said Najarro. He emphasized that as a community, working together is the key to all successful projects.

Ambergris Today

San Pedro High School Presents Honor Roll Students
San Pedro High School takes pride in presenting to you their first semester Honor Roll Students. Congratulations to all the students for all their hard work and perseverance.

Belize Signs Treaty On The Prohibition Of Nuclear Weapons
On February 6, 2020, the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Belize to the United Nations, H.E. Lois M. Young, acting on behalf of the Government of Belize, signed the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. The Treaty was adopted on July 7, 2017 and opened for signature on September 20, 2017. The goal of the Treaty is for the total elimination of nuclear weapons. This signing demonstrates the support of the Government of Belize to a world free of nuclear weapons.

Belize Ban On Gillnets Must Be Decisive Says Oceana
AN ON GILLNETS MUST BE DECISIVE - Without meaningful longevity, potential success will be undermined and fishers will be shortchanged Thursday, February 6th, 2020 – In December 2019, in the context of unwavering advocacy for more than two decades and widespread national support, the Government of Belize took the historic step to declare gillnets destructive.

Various Belizean Sources

Scarlet Macaws Feeding
This afternoon, alerted by their loud calls, I got to watch 42 Scarlet Macaws (Ara macao cyanoptera) feeding on a Banak tree (Virola multiflora or brachycarpa) for over an hour, roughly one third of the entire population of Belize!

Ministry of Health Clarifies Misleading Statements of a Suspected Coronavirus Case at the Northern Border
The Ministry of Health continues its active surveillance activities across the country and has had the active involvement of multiple partners at all levels. It is this surveillance that has allowed the Ministry to have a timely interaction and follow-up of cases of epidemiological interest as it relates to the current novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) outbreak. It is in light of this that the Ministry clarifies a situation that has unfortunately become a social media post and news item with misleading and untruthful statements of a situation at the northern border last night.

Passport Services Interruption
Notice from H.E. Daniel Gutierez, Ambassador of Belize to the United States of America, regarding the continuation of Passport Services using the current requirements (Forms 3A/B and 4A/B).

Belize Signs Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons
On February 6, 2020, the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Belize to the United Nations, H.E. Lois M. Young, acting on behalf of the Government of Belize, signed the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. The Treaty was adopted on July 7, 2017 and opened for signature on September 20, 2017. The goal of the Treaty is for the total elimination of nuclear weapons. This signing demonstrates the support of the Government of Belize to a world free of nuclear weapons.

Peace Corps Belize Vacancy
Peace Corps Belize seeks qualified candidates to fill the post of Response Program Manager. Deadline to apply: February 28th, 2020.

Cayo Animal Welfare Society upcoming clinics
The Cayo Animal Welfare Society is having low cost clinics in Bullet Tree on the 15th and 16th, and in Succotz and Benque on the 22nd and 23rd. More will be announced soo. Please share the fliers, and they are asking for volunteers. Thanks, CAWS, for helping keep the animal populations in check.

Voice of the West Elocution Contest
The Rotary Club of San Ignacio had their Voice of the West Elocution Contest last night. Congratulations to the three 1st place winners from Eden HS! Original Poem: Adrian Harris. Recital of a Poem: Leniesha Castillo. Persuasive Speech: Ethan Landero. Great to see.

US Embassy Looking forGardener
The U.S. Embassy is seeking eligible and qualified applicants for the following position: Gardener. Closing date: February 21, 2020

The Ronald Frederick Greenwood Museum and Restaurant
One of the heritage sites we have razed and rebuild as part of the Downtown Rejuvenation Project is the property at the corner of Regents and Cockburn Lane (Cockburn Lane was named after Governor Sir Francis Cockburn 1830 to 1837). The plan for the property is to become a museum dedicated to Mr. Ronald Frederick Greenwood (the property was where he lived) who moved to British Honduras in the mid-seventies and contributed to the development of the city.

Laguna Seca Ferry Loses its Cable
Cable on ferry broke and ferry floating out to sea with 3 vehicles and people on board..our truck was next trip..these ferries are old and cables were bound to snap! Praying that the Ministry of Works acts quickly to rescue the vehicles and people stuck on the ferry as the men are trying to pull on the cable to prevent ferry from drifting further out to sea.

2020 Taipei Lantern Festival “Together We Glow” – Embassy of Belize, Taiwan hosts Press Conference
The Embassy of Belize to the Republic of China (Taiwan) hosted a Press Conference today to unveil lanterns depicting elements of Belize's Maya-Mestizo Heritage: the Lamanai Mask Temple, Deer Dance Festival, and Marimba. For the second year in a row, Belize will be participating in the Taipei Lantern Festival on February 8-16, 2020 and the Taichung Lantern Festival on February 8-23, 2020. The lanterns on display in Taichung will be depicting the Great Blue Hole as well as an array of species of marine life found in the Belizean Barrier Reef.

The Belize Training and Employment Centre (BTEC), a unit of BELTRAIDE, has successfully completed its first Job Preparedness Training for 2020!
The Belize Training and Employment Centre (BTEC), a unit of BELTRAIDE has successfully completed its first Job Preparedness Training for 2020! Today, 45 participants have been certified after completing a three-week Administrative Assistant Training. The programme covered both the soft and technical skills necessary to prepare participants for work as effective administrative professionals. Some of the topics covered included time management, conflict management, organizational skills, professional etiquette and much more. The Belize Training and Employment Centre hopes that this intense, interactive programme will contribute greatly to the future accomplishments of these participants.

Get Plastic Trash Off the Street!
Hi, my name is Candy and I am a business owner and proud resident of Corozal, Belize. Our community is raising $5,300 BZD to purchase a used plastics shredder and here’s why: Plastic trash is a global problem. I’m asking you to help me make Corozal an eco-jewel in the Caribbean.

Targeting Vehicles at Muni
This is a total chance by the Belize Airport Authority... they pay one person all day to target vehicles at the Belize Municipal Airport. They do this to force people to pay for parking inside BAA parking lot across Maya. This is one single policy aimed at chancy hardworking Belizean! I don’t see any problem in someone using an empty space for a few minutes. This few minutes parking cost this vehicle owner $35.00 while he waits for his love one to get off the plane!

Coronavirus Operational Plan in Corozal
Corozal Community Hospital Surveillance Team met yesterday to activate the Coronavirus Operational Plan and met with Border Management, Customs and Immigration for the implementation of the screening program which commenced today Saturday, February 8th, 2020 at the Corozal Santa Elena border on persons entering the country with international flights through Mexico.

Consejo Road Grading Completed!
We would like to invite all residents of Consejo including those living off Consejo Road. Please attend and increase your knowledge of Consejo Road and have your questions answered. In attendance will be the Consejo Road Committee along with representatives in charge of the Ministry of Works locally and nationally. Monday February 17th, 1:00 pm at the Millennium Restaurant at Consejo Village. Attached is a document called advantages of maintaining Consejo Road, please have a read. Also attached are the scan copies of receipts received from contractors for work carried out and check received from Consejo Village Council.

WÁAY(Huay) - BELIZEAN MAYA LEGEND
Between the Yucatec Maya people of Belize there is the story of the Wáay . The plural of Wáay is Wáayo'ob . For the ancient Maya the Wáay refered to a animal that shared its essence with each person; a kind of "accompanying spirit". The wáay also spelled as Huay can refer to a person who can control this accompanying spirit or transforms into an animal while asleep . After conquest due to religion this legend was more associated with evil . A Wáay can be either good or bad . A wáay can use its powers to benefit a community . Also can use its powers to do mischievous acts .

President of the National Institute of Culture and History, Sapna Budhrani, visits staff
Today the President of the National Institute of Culture and History, Sapna Budhrani, visited NICH's various offices to surprise staff with more than 10 years of tenure. Ms. Budhrani commended them for their invaluable contribution to the preservation and promotion of Belize's Culture and HIstory and thanked them for their continued service to Belize!

Channel 7

Mayor Belisle Busted With Dermen & Kingston?
Tonight, we have the first picture with Lev Dermen, Jacob Kingston and a Belize Government official. It is Belmopan Mayor, the UDP's Khalid Belisle.  He is seen in a 2015 picture in an embrace between Dermen and Kingston, flanked by two of John Saldivar's side-men. The picture is taken in front of a private jet at the Phillip Golden International Airport.   Now, it fits in perfectly with testimony from Jacob Kingston yesterday in Utah in which he said he and Dermen, quote, "had dinner with ministers from Belize, (and) mayors", end quote.  
Belisle was quick to put out a statement this evening saying, quote, "the group picturewas taken in late April or early May of 2015 at the conclusion of a brief meeting I had with them at the Phillip Goldson International Airport ahead of their departure from Belize that afternoon."

Media Mad Over Closed Convention
And so while all the storylines, all the political maneuvering and machinations will converge at the Civic for Sunday's historic national convention, we'll only be able to tell you a part of the story.   That's because, as 7News first reported days ago, the UDP has decided that the convention will be closed to the media.  That's unheard of in the 21st century, and our records indicate that the last time anything like that happened was way, way back in November of 1996 when the PUP selected its leader to replace George Price. We had to do a deep dig into our archives to find that day when Said Musa emerged victorious in the event held at the Belmopan Civic Center.

How Will PM Barrow Handle A Saldivar Leadership?
And so, on Sunday, a leader will emerge - and if it is John Saldivar, there will be a week of extreme tension ahead for the UDP.  That's because Jacob Kingston will be on the stand in a Utah Federal Courthouse most of next week and he will continue to testify about his relationships and connections in Belize.  Court documents we have seen say that will include text message exchanges he had with John Saldivar.  Saldivar has said, and repeated that he had no corrupt dealings with Kingston or Lev Dermen and has nothing to fear from that testimony. But, what if something emerges? Then what would the UDP do with its new leader, who is supposed to take over the Prime Minister's post from the retiring Dean Barrow?  It's a grim possibility that Barrow himself addressed in his press conference on January 15th:..

Ashcroft Seeks To Join Redistricting Suit
And while the Barrow Administration continue to grapple with the Lev Dermen scandal, one of the PM's old adversaries, Lord Michael Ashcroft, has re-emerged in an interesting case that could re-map Belize's political landscape.  Ashcroft wants to participate in the redistricting lawsuit that the Belize Peace Movement and others have brought against the Government. He has made an application before Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin to join the lawsuit as an interested party. You'll remember that the re-districting lawsuit is a challenge from the independent politicos behind the Belize Progressive Party, their Belize Peace Movement, the Vision Inspired by the People, and a coalition of other nationalists.

MOH: No Cause For Concern About Coronavirus
Last night, we told you about the Coronavirus scare at the northern border.  Well, today the Ministry of Health is saying, it was no scare at all, just absolute due diligence and timely surveillance. A statement says, quote, "Our surveillance team had been alerted days ago of a Belizean student returning from China; surveillance and screening measures had been set up for his arrival at that border. It should be noted that the student went through four border entrances where he was cleared at all points prior to his arrival in Belize.

Health Employees Detained At Mex Border
But the real emergency for the Ministry of Health last night was on the other side of the border, where Mexican authorities held three Ministry employees and their vehicle overnight. The team lead by Dental Surgeon Dr. Raphael Samos, along with a clerk and a driver went to Chetumal to purchase three dental chairs.  But, it seems they didn't have the full tax paper work to bring the chairs back over into Belize.

Caught A Cop With A Gun Stolen (From The Police!)
A cop who was acting up at the northern border was caught with a stolen gun - and, get this, it was stolen from the police department. That's right!  Here's how it happened.  Police say that at around 7:20 last night, they were called to the Corozal Border, where a Police Constable was resisting the border authorities and giving them trouble. He had a firearm in his possession, and one of the responding officers relieved him of the weapon.

A Real Good Resolution For The Real Deal Gramma
Carolette Gideon, also known as The Real Deal, has been in the News this week. That's because of her impassioned campaign to get help for her grandson after he was knocked down on Faber's Road extension.  Well, get help she did.  Attorney Steve Perrera saw our story and contacted Gideon to take the case on Pro-bono. He went to the insurance company and invoked an underutilized clause called "no fault".  It basically means, despite who is at fault, the insurance company is liable to pay medical expenses up to five thousand dollars.  

Ammo Found, Drugs Gone By Water
Tonight, more is known about that drug plane which was found burnt up in Monkey River yesterday morning.  As we told you, police found a twin engine aircraft, identified to us as a Piper Navajo which had landed in the grass beside an airstrip that had already been destroyed.  The only clearings were for the lights which were used to guide the plane in.  When police searched the area they found a trove of weapons and accessories, including several machetes, gallons of gasoline, plus a red kitbag that had been buried

Weed Tea? Or Cannabis In A Can?
Someone was trying to push some major drug traffic through the post office - pretending the prohibited product was iced tea!   On Tuesday, a suspicious parcel arrived at Belmopan's Post Office loaded. Employees of the Belize Postal Service called police to say they suspected the package contained drugs. 

Report Shows Negligence On Water Taxi
You will remember the tragic incident in May of Last year, where the two sisters, 10-year-old Yamiri Yasmin Guy, and 8-year-old Kimberly Melissa Guy, died on a water taxi when it exploded at the Ocean Ferry Belize Water Taxi terminal.  
Well, 7News has obtained a copy of the final report investigating what went wrong.  That report suggests proper care was not taken to ensure that the gasoline and fumes in the vessel's tanks did not escape or spill. The Port Authority investigators interviewed crew members, passengers,  police investigators, BDF bomb experts and others to inspect the vessel's electrical wiring, its engines, and its fuel tanks.

Guns Found In Stann Creek Waters
Earlier, we told you about the cop caught at the border with a gun allegedly stolen from precinct three police.  But, we showed the wrong weapon in that story. And we apologize.  The guns we showed were actually found yesterday when a team of joint law enforcement authorities went out to Tobacco Caye in the Stann Creek District. That's where they found these two illegal weapons and ammunition. 

The Lotto Is An Olympic Affair?
Last year we told you how the government put the Belize Government Lottery, including  Boledo, Jackpot Lottery and Ordinary Lottery out to tender.   The requirements were tough to meet, and there were some questions about which company could fill the role. Well, reports to our newsroom say that an unlikely applicant has appeared.  It's the National Olympic Committee, also known as the Belize Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association.

The Queen Of Calypso Takes On Watina
If you were a fan of MTV's Making The Video, you'll have a good idea of what's about to take place in Hopkins over the weekend. That's because Trinidadian recording artist Calypso Rose and Belize's own Garifuna Collective are set to make the music video for their cover of Andy Palacio's "Watina". Cherisse Halsall went to the airport to meet the Calypso legend. Here's her story:

Fires in Belize District
Two structures in the Belize district were completely destroyed by fire today.  The first, a restaurant, in Hattieville village burned down at around 4:15 this morning. Neither the building nor its contents valued at approximately $3,500.00 were insured.

Victims Fighting Back Robbers
Ladyville police are investigating an armed robbery where the assailants targeted a woman using a toy gun - and she put up a fight that sent them scampering. At around 8:45 last night, 48-year-old Elizabeth Borland was walking home when, at the corner of Jackson Street and Egbert Quilter Street, she was grabbed from behind.  Her assailant robbed her of her purse which contained her house keys, and 3 cellular phones.  Burt, Borland wasn't about to let that go and struggled to get back her stolen purse from the robber.

EU-LAC, Say What?
Viewers may know about the European Union - Latin America and Caribbean Foundation or (EU-LAC) for short. It was created in 2010 by the Heads of State and Government of the European Union and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean Member States. This foundation is a tool of the EU-LAC partnership, and it was given the mission of strengthening and promoting bilateral ties between the 62 member states. 

Channel 5

A Look Ahead at the U.D.P. Leadership Convention
There is a flurry of activity leading up to the national convention of the United Democratic Party on Sunday.  This Saturday, both Patrick Faber and John Saldivar are holding separate [...]

Patrick Faber Weighs in on Media Restriction
Restricting media access to cover Sunday’s national party convention, in an era where the dissemination of timely information is most critical, is a counterproductive decision taken by the executive of [...]

Media Restriction Aims to Prevent Campaigning, Says Patrick Faber
It is well acknowledged that the election of the person, who wants to lead the U.D.P. and ultimately the country, should not be a closed event. Despite the restrictions, News [...]

2012: Lev Dermen and the Belize Connection
In Salt Lake City this week, Jacob Kingston revealed that accused fraudster Lev Dermen became interested in Belize in 2012.  Living a high lifestyle, the accused fraudster would wine and [...]

Belmopan Mayor Issues Statement on His Encounter with Dermen & Kingston
Now to the photo in circulation which shows Mayor Khalid Belisle and other associates, who are likely to be on the delegates list of this weekend’s convention. They are photographed [...]

ComPol Gives Details of Monkey River Drug Plane
Overnight on Wednesday, a suspected drug plane landed in the Monkey River area. An operation team, headed by the Joint Intelligence Operating Centre, had been alerted of the aircraft en [...]

How to Detect Local Actors in Illegal Drug Plane Landings
ComPol Williams says that almost daily, reports are received of suspected drug planes, but the location where the aircraft will land is unknown and so officers are often times deployed [...]

Belizean Student Returning from China is Cleared of Coronavirus
There is no suspected case of coronavirus in Belize; that’s the message coming out of the Ministry of Health today. This afternoon, the ministry responded to reports of a person [...]

Surveillance/Monitoring System by Ministry of Health at Work
The ministry release says that the student will remain in isolation and has no positive epidemiological link to any coronavirus. The situation gives health officials an opportunity to review and [...]

Well Known Businessman Richard Harrison Killed in Accident
The grieving family of Richard Harrison is beginning the painful preparations of his funeral in San Ignacio. The well-known businessman was killed on Thursday in a freak accident on the [...]

Belize Bank to Appeal CJ’s Ruling on UHS Debt
Attorney for the Belize Bank Limited, Senior Counsel Eamon Courtenay this evening filed an application for leave to appeal a ruling made last month by Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin in [...]

Will Lord Ashcroft Be Allowed to Join as an Interested Party in Redistricting Case?
Today, Lord Michael Ashcroft made good on his interest to join the legal battle along with the parties seeking for a re-districting exercise to be conducted before this year’s General [...]

Retired B.D.F. Captains Pens Letter to Brig. General Ortega
It’s been a week since the reports of multiple sexual harassment and abuse emerged from within the B.D.F.  Those reports were mostly about offences committed within the training school, but [...]

An Update on the Police Investigation into the Auditor General’s Report
When we caught up with the Commissioner of Police Chester Williams, he confirmed today that an investigation continues into the Auditor General’s Report on the National Sports Council. Former Consul [...]

No One Will Be Spared in Police Investigation of Audit Report
Williams says that the police will be guided by the directives of the Director of Public Prosecutions. But what about those who seemingly have political clout? ComPol Chester Williams also [...]

Closing Arguments Submitted for Rape Case
In the court, the Prosecution and the Defense in the rape trial of Ervin Pitts, wrapped up this evening during their closing arguments before Supreme Court Justice Colin Williams.  A [...]

Man, Charged for Murder, Still Has No Attorney after Almost 5 Years on Remand
A number of bail applications were heard today. Gian Lee Guerra appeared before Justice Antoinette Moore to apply for bail but he could not be considered because he does not [...]

Meighan Brothers Couldn’t Get Bail
The Meighan brothers: Shaquille, Tyrone and Ellis were not able to be considered for bail today because their case file is still incomplete. The trio, charged with Being Members of [...]

Man Accused of Shooting at a Police Officer is Granted Bail
Attorney Hurl Hamilton secured bail for Jahliel Petillo from Supreme Court Justice Antoinette Moore, provided he abides by certain conditions. These include that he report every Friday to the Police [...]

Peace Movement Wants G.O.B. to Move Ahead with UNCAC
The executive of the Belize Peace Movement wants the government to move ahead and to implement the United Nations Convention Against Corruption. Today, one of its leading representatives, Paco Smith, [...]

Calypso Rose Covers Watina and Films Music Video in Hopkins
Legendary musician Calypso Rose arrived in Belize today where she will be shooting a music video for the first single from her new album, Forever Young.  The lead single is [...]

ComPol Begins Tour; First Stop San Pedro
The Commissioner of Police Chester Williams commenced his official tour of the country. His first stop was in the islands of Caye Caulker and San Pedro, comprising the jurisdiction of [...]

ComPol: 2 Substations Needed for San Pedro
As part of the tour, a town hall session was held with residents and various stakeholders in San Pedro on February sixth. While the police department was lauded for its [...]

47 Participants Certified in Administrative Assistant Training from BTEC
The Belize Center for Employment Training wrapped up its administrative assistant training course today with a passing out ceremony for almost fifty trainees.  The participants did three weeks of trainings, [...]

Two-Day COBEC Conference Wraps Up in Belmopan
The Consortium for Belize Educational Cooperation thirty-second conference also concluded today at the UB Campus in Belize City. COBEC has been around for over thirty years and it connects Belize [...]

Amandala

US prosecutor probes fraud spending in Belize
The trial of accused fraudster Lev Dermen continues in the US District Court in Salt Lake City, Utah. Yesterday, Jacob Kingston was led to the court in handcuffs to begin his testimony, which will continue for the next several days. Dermen, who is also known as Levon Termendzhyan, was the business partner of the Kingston family, four of whose members have been charged in the massive fraud case involving their company, Washakie Renewable Energy, which was used to defraud the United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) out of $511 million dollars.

Businessman Richard Harrison, 55, dies in traffic accident
A tragic traffic accident between Miles 55 and 56 on the George Price Highway, in the vicinity of Ontario Village, claimed the life of Belizean entrepreneur and former politician Richard Harrison. He was 55. Police reported that Wilmer Kornelson, 48, a truck driver of Spanish Lookout, was driving a truck loaded with pine lumber. When he turned a curve, the lumber that was strapped onto his truck dislodged and fell into the road. Harrison, who was traveling in the opposite direction, heading west, collided with the many pieces of lumber that fell from the truck.

Faber vs Saldivar on Sunday
The United Democratic Party (UDP) will make political history in Belize on Sunday, February 9, when 570 delegates, chosen from among all 31 electoral constituencies, decide which of the two candidates vying for leadership of the party will be the new UDP leader. The governing UDP will also make another kind of history, because the independent media will not be allowed inside the Belize City Center, where the convention will be held. The media will be banned from the convention until after the party has conducted its business of carrying out elections and setting party policy in the form of motions.

Another suspected drug plane found
On January 26, less than five days after an intact suspected drug plane was found abandoned in the remote area between Crooked Tree, Belize District, and Shipyard, Orange Walk District, another suspected drug plane was found, but this time in a remote area between Monkey River and Punta Negra, Toledo District, in the south of the country. The plane was seen severely damaged and burnt. It is believed that it crash-landed and it was deliberately destroyed. The person or persons who were traveling in the plane were nowhere to be found, and it is not known what cargo it was carrying.

BSI/ASR threatens stevedores’ earnings
Last September, Amandala broke the story that ASR/BSI was conducting “experimental runs” on the highways, using trucks to transport sugar to the port at Big Creek, in the Stann Creek District, and in that manner, was bypassing the Port of Belize Limited, in Belize City, which uses stevedores to load sugar barges for transportation of sugar to the overseas markets. Those “experimental runs” have been having hard-hitting effects on the earnings of approximately 150 Belize City-based stevedores, represented by the Christian Workers Union, (CWU) which has been engaged in protracted negotiations with the receivership of the Port of Belize Limited (PBL) for better working conditions for its members.

BNTU and MoE say progress achieved on some issues
The Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU), the Minister of Education and the Ministry’s technical staff held a marathon negotiating session today to address several issues that are of pressing concern to the union. The negotiations were held against a backdrop of instructions from the union’s general membership to initiate industrial action, if the issues were not addressed to their satisfaction by the Ministry of Education (MoE). After negotiating for more than 5 hours, both sides came out of the negotiations claiming that progress was made on some of the issues that they discussed today.

Meighan brothers charged with being members of a gang
It was with heavy police security that three brothers — Ellis “Juice” Meighan, 27; Tyrone “Debo” Meighan, 26; and Shaquille Meighan, 23 —were escorted yesterday to the Magistrate’s Court on a charge of being members of a gang, namely, the Banak Street clique of the Ghost Town Crips. They pleaded not guilty to the charge when they appeared before Senior Magistrate Tricia Pitts Anderson. Because of the nature of the offence, they were denied bail and were remanded. They told Senior Magistrate Anderson that they were threatened and they feared that they would be beaten by the police while they were being taken to prison.

Post-mortem shows that Khris Gentle, 26, drowned
A post-mortem exam conducted on the body of Khris Gentle, 26, a fisherman of Cemetery Lane, was carried out at a medical facility on the Boom-Hattieville Road yesterday. At the conclusion of the exam, the doctor who conducted the autopsy, certified that Gentle’s death was caused by asphyxia, as a result of inhalation of fluid consistent with drowning. Gentle’s family and police said that no signs of foul play were seen on his body.

Diego Correa, 35, arraigned for murder of friend
Diego Onorio Correa, 35, an unemployed resident of Libertad, Corozal District, has been remanded until April 6 for a charge of murder. Police allege that Correa stabbed Juan Mendez, 37, of Concepcion Corozal District, causing his death. The incident occurred Saturday night in Concepcion in Mendez’s yard. Daniel Mendez, Juan’s brother, told the media that they were socializing with Correa, who was their childhood friend, in the village on Saturday night.

Jesus Monteroso, 20, remanded for the murder of Daniel Cano, 27
Jesus Monteroso, 20, a sales clerk of Paraiso, Corozal District, has been remanded for the stabbing death of Daniel Cano, 27, of Concepcion. He was taken this morning to the Corozal Magistrate’s Court, where was arraigned by Magistrate Ed Usher, who read the murder charge to him. No plea was taken and he was remanded until April 23. The vicious stabbing occurred at the home of Antonio Anderson in Concepcion on Saturday night.

Editorial: Falling merchandise exports, increasing dependence on services
It’s not the prettiest picture that’s seen when we take a first glance at the latest data from the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) on our exports and imports for 2019. The SIB says that between January and December 2019 we exported $411.8 million worth of goods, and we imported $1.97 billion worth of goods. In terms of dollars, goods we imported exceeded goods we exported by $1.56 billion, and expressed as a fraction, our imports exceeded goods we exported by almost five times. The picture is not as bleak as it looks at first glance. A sizable chunk of our imports are destined for the Commercial Free Zones, so our import bill is not as large as we see in the report. The SIB says that the cost of goods imported into the free zones went up from $324 million in 2018 to $329.9 million in 2019.

In Belama, Apollo Street is a continuous drain on City Hall resources
In August 2014, there was a contract signing at the Ministry of Works conference room, in Belmopan. Government signed contracts that were valued at 5 million dollars under the Flood Mitigation Program that was funded by a US$10 million loan from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). At that Ministry of Works contract signing, M&R Construction signed a contract for $1.8 million. The contract was for the upgrading of Apollo Street, a main thoroughfare in the Belama area. That upgrading work was reportedly supposed to have been done in 9 months, by May 2015.

BATSUB is the modern “old pirates”
The Defence Ministry’s CEO says the article by the Daily Maverick, which says that the British army uses land in Belize for training, “has a lot of inaccuracies.” During the heydays of British colonialism in Belize, the Colonial Power had the entire country to itself to rape and plunder its forestry resources at will. That should have ended with the arrival of independence, especially in light of the “appropriate time” defense guarantee the British Government set as an easy exit, leaving its territorial dispute with Guatemala unresolved. An audit report done in Belize for the British Ministry of Defence has confirmed, however, that the British Army has been using large portions of Belize’s land mass to train its soldiers and has not been paying anything to the country for the use of this land.

More flack for the Equal Opportunities Bill
While the community still has mixed emotions concerning the Equal Opportunities Bill, new entities are joining the band of those not in favor. Since January, the Anti-Discrimination Steering Committee, through the efforts of the Special Envoy of Women and Children, The National AIDS Commission and other partners, has made numerous attempts to build transparency and support for the bill. These attempts include the countrywide public consultations which took place from January 11th-18th, a media breakfast with the Belize Council of Churches on January 21, a Q&A meeting with the Ministry of Education on January 30 and a series of informative posts on social media.

Shots from Melchor fired at Western Border Customs building
The Customs and Immigration building on the Belize side of the Western Border was damaged by gunshots last night after it was shot at multiple times by an unknown shooter from across the Guatemalan side of the border. Luckily, no one was hurt. A complaint has been made to the Melchor de Mencos police so that an investigation can be launched into the shooting of the building.

“Dumb Things Parents Say To Their Children”: a booklet by a former Amandala reporter
Parenting is a skill that some people learn through trial and errors. The errors from the trial, however, can leave devastating results for years in the lives of the children, unless serious counseling is sought. A Belizean who has been living and teaching in the United States for almost three decades has addressed this most sensitive topic, in a kind, compassionate way in a small, but powerful booklet by the name, “Dumb Things Parents Say To Their Children”. Jennifer Betson Williams is presently visiting her family members and took time out to stop by Amandala to share her work with us. Before she went to live in the United States, Williams worked at Amandala as a reporter.

From The Publisher
Those of my generation who did history at the high school (“Ordinary”) level in the 1950s and 1960s basically studied mostly British and a little European history during the last part of the fifteenth century, the sixteenth century, and a large portion of the seventeenth century. If, like myself, you went on to do history at the Sixth Form (“Advanced”) level, then you would do a lot of European history, cum British, in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, perhaps even some nineteenth century matters. This is a long time ago, so I cannot be sure of the specifics. I think that when we started history at St. John’s College in the first form, we began with the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485, which is when Henry VII became King of England by becoming the victor in the so-called War of the Roses. Thus began the Tudor family dynasty in English royalty.

Cricket Corner – Brothers Keagan and Kristan Tillett dominated Brilliant’s game
Under the auspices of the Belize National Cricket Association, the Sir Barry Bowen/ Harrison Parks 2020 Cricket Competition kicked off over the weekend with some very interesting and exciting matches. I’m pleased to highlight you with the results by starting with Western Eagles vs Northern Spirit.

Belize City primary school basketball update
Primary school basketball, female (F) and male (M), continues daily with games in the afternoons at Swift Hall; and while some of the teams are not very competitive, with a number of lopsided scores resulting, there are a few teams that stand out, and some raw talents beginning to emerge in the Belize City Primary Schools Basketball Tournament 2019-2020.

C-Ray Full-Throttle Thursday Race results – February 6, 2020
Here are the results of this morning’s C-Ray Full-Throttle Thursday Race, that left from in front of Data Pro and travelled to the Hattieville roundabout and returned, for a total of 23.8 miles, averaging 24.9 mph in a time of 56.49 (56 minutes 49 seconds). The station prize going (Prison) was won by Brandon Cattouse; and that on the return (Fresh Pond) was taken by David Banner, Jr.

BELIZEAN LEGENDS — SHINING STARS! GUS!
The legendary Belizean boxer of the 1970s, Raymond “Sixteen” Thompson, hails the late and legendary Gustavo Marin as Belize’s greatest boxing trainer of all time. Not only was Marin one of the best cornermen, who had the back of many of the legendary Belizean boxers, like Roy “Shorty” Clarke, Trinidad-born Fitzroy Guisseppi, Leroy Hardiman, Frank “Tukutak” Humes, Thompson himself, and many others, but he ran the most progressive and successful boxing gym in the country, that produced the best boxers in Belizean boxing history at his famous “Independence Gym”. The legendary Gus Marin, according to Thompson, trained his fighters with some of the most effective conditioning training techniques, that “ripped” them into serious shape for a fight.

NO WOMAN, NO CRY!
She painfully looks for identity as the lifeless body of her son is laid out in the back of the Belizean police truck: that has become a common sight now in a kind of civil war involving black-on-black crime that has engulfed the nation state of Belize. It has become very sad now for many Belizeans to watch those heart-wrenching images of the destruction of a young population of Belizean young men who were supposed to be Belize’s hope for the future. But most deeply hurting for many of us is to stomach the devastation of the young mother who cries out for help with her tears that have exposed the promises that were never kept.

Our sociable, not so sociable, and reclusive tribes
I have said that my tribe, the Kriol, is the glue to this nation because we are the tribe that is racially, culturally mixed up with all the other tribes in Belize. It is a Garifuna Belizean, Chico Ramos, who sang, A wahn marid to ahn, but that sounds like a Kriol anthem. I told you I don’t know everything. It isn’t gazetted, but Chico might be Garifuna/Kriol. In this risky discussion I note, based on my day-to-day observations, how the different tribes in our country interact in this beloved nation we call Belize. Ah, I’ve been this way before, so call this my latest look.

EOB = PUDP betrayal
Today, January 28, after having gotten a copy of the EOB (Equal Opportunity Bill), I had just gotten through a review when I was told, “You have wasted some hours of time. The deal has been done; the Prime Minister has signed the agreement.” Yesterday, making a declaration, the Leader of the Opposition had stated: ‘I haven’t read it, but I approve it’, or words to that effect. I have never in my life felt so disrespected.

Master Emerson Jerome Duncan
There had been no noteworthy developments that we knew of during the month of July that affected the matter uppermost on all our minds, but in early August a rumour had started going around that Jerome and Dr. Francis had been seen having a discussion at a table in the far corner of the doctors’ lounge. Of course nobody had been near enough to hear what had been the subject of conversation. The only thing that could be said was that the meeting seemed a cordial one, which really provided no clue since both men were known for their polite manners.

Derricia Castillo-Salazar writes Brigadier General Steven Ortega
Dear Brigadier General Ortega, I am writing to you on behalf of myself and other former officers of the BDF, and on behalf of the over 400 citizens of Belize and civil society organizations who have signed a Change.org petition to ensure that the matter of sexual abuse and assault in the BDF is fully investigated, and the culture of violence against women in the BDF is changed.

InSight Crime’s 2019 Homicide Round-Up
In its annual Homicide Round-Up, InSight Crime looks into the country-by-country murder rates and the factors influencing them.

The Reporter

Lord Ashcroft Applies To Join Redistricting Case
The redistricting case before Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin took an interesting twist today, when Andrew Marshalleck, Attorney for Lord Michael Ashcroft presented an application to the Court to be allowed to join the Belize Peace Movement and other interested parties who are before the Court with the case.

MoH Confirms No One on Flight Originated from China
Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero, has confirmed with the Reporter that there was no one originating from China on a plane which arrived in Belize from El Salvador this week.

Police Charge Shane Bennett for Anthony Parks’ Murder
Police have arrested and charged Shane Bennett, 33, of Independence Village for the murder of Anthony Parks.

MOH Clarifies Media Reports Of Coronavirus Case In Belize
The Ministry of Health says there are misleading statements of a suspected Coronavirus case at the Northern border.

The Facebook Samaritan
Albert Magdaleno manages his page under the name Ladyvillenews Highlights. A quick browse through his profile does not even reveal much about the man. He makes posts also under subtitles such as “Blast from the Past”, “Laughter is the Best Medicine” and “Be Your Own Boss.”

LOVE FM

Richard Harrison’s brother speaks on his untimely passing
Yesterday, 56-year-old Richard Harrison died after being involved in a road traffic accident on the George Price Highway. Harrison was a well-known businessman from San Ignacio Town whose family is known for their Big H Enterprise.

Erlin Gomez charged for assault of a teenage girl
40-year-old Erlin Gomez was remanded to the Belize Central Prison after he was charged for two counts of sexual assault. A fifteen-year-old minor alleged that he touched her inappropriately on her genitals and grabbed her breast.

Coronavirus scare proved to be false
Reports on social media last night alarmed residents as one news media had posted that a person was detained at our border with Mexico after they were exhibiting signs of influenza. The reports stated that the Belizean national was returning from a trip to China and had signs of respiratory illness.

Public Service Union engages in anti-corruption training
The Love Foundation, through funding by the US Embassy, has rolled out a lecture series on Anti-Corruption. We have been following past few training sessions with different organizations, and today, it was the Public Service Union’s (PSU) turn.

House fire in Belize City is quickly extinguished by firefighters
A small wooden house was completely destroyed by fire yesterday in Belize City. According to the owner, Floid Burgess, he was in front of his yard on Ebony Street with his friends when he smelled smoke coming from behind his house. Sleeping inside the small wooden structure was his nephew, Orlando Burgess.

Lord Michael Ashcroft back on the frontline
Lord Michael Ashcroft is back on the frontline as he has applied to be included in the Redistricting case before the Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin. The late application forced the Chief Justice to give an additional week for preparation.

Tick Tock; time approaches for new UDP party leader to be selected
With less than 48 hours left for the UDP Convention on Sunday, it is anybody’s guess who will be the new party leader. At some points in the last few months, things seemed in favour of Faber and then there were some instances where Saldivar seemed to be ahead in the race with the support from the majority of the Cabinet members.

Men beaten then sent to jail?
A family in the Cayo District is claiming that the police are abusing their authority. Yesterday, 20-year-old Juan Ico and Marvin Ical went fishing and got into an altercation with persons who live at a farm nearby. Love News understands that the altercation ensued when the persons from the farm insinuated that Ico and Ical hit their dogs.

Are UDP delegates being bribed by Ministers?
In the days leading up to Sunday’s convention, we have received reports of the delegates being bribed by certain Ministers, in the hope of securing a seat on the UDP Executive on Sunday. One such allegation of bribery has to do with the issuance of lands. According to KREM’s News Director, Marisol Amaya, a long queue was observed at the Lands Department.

Public Meeting in San Pedro
The Commissioner of Police has initiated a countrywide tour and is engaging the public in various municipalities. On Thursday night he was on Ambergris Caye where he met with key stakeholders in the tourism industry and the community. Among the main issues discussed were the reduction of crime on the island and the consumption of alcohol as one of the major causes of traffic related incidents. Our Island correspondent has the details.

Breaking Belize News

Should there be less constituencies in Belize City and more in the districts? – Lord Ashcroft joins redistricting case
Lord Michael Ashcroft this afternoon made common cause with the Belize PEACE Movement’s efforts to […]

Belize Training and Employment Centre graduates new cohort from job preparedness training
The Belize Training and Employment Centre (BTEC), a unit of the Belize Trade and Investment […]

Dear UDP delegate:
The views expressed in this article are those of the writer and not necessarily those of Breaking Belize […]

Belmopan Mayor says Dermen/Kingston meeting before plane photo went nowhere
Mayor of Belmopan, Khalid Belisle, is the latest United Democratic Party politician forced to explain […]

Picture surfaces showing Mayor Khalid Belisle with Lev Dermen and others
On Thursday, February 7, Jacob Kingston, an associate of alleged international fraudster, Lev Dermen testified […]

Shane Bennett charged for the murder of Anthony Parks
Police have officially charged Shane Bennett, 33, of Independence Village for the murder of 37-year-old […]

Belize Peace Movement calls out Barrow Administration on corruption
The Belize Peace Movement has called out the Government of Belize (GOB) and Prime Minister […]

Calypso Rose in Belize to shoot video with The Garifuna Collective
Today, Stonetree Records announced that in co-production with Maturity Music (Trinidad) and Because Music (France), […]

Gallons and ammunition found near burnt aircraft in Southern Belize
Authorities issued an official report today regarding the discovery of a suspected drug plane yesterday […]

COLA says John Saldivar is not “the way forward” for the U.D.P., nor Belize
For various reasons, the organization Citizens Organized for Liberty through Action (COLA) says it does […]

Prime Minister Barrow on Faber campaign ad; should not be interpreted as an endorsement
The United Democratic Party (UDP) issued a statement saying that Prime Minister Dean Barrow has […]

Scientists urge action to save Central American peccary from extinction
Scientists are calling for countries in Central America to take immediate action to keep the […]

“The River of Art Flows Everywhere” on display at the Benque House of Culture
The Benque House of Culture is inviting the public to join them tonight at 7:00 […]

Shyne Barrow: Prime Minister remains neutral in support for either candidate
Son of Prime Minister, Dean Barrow, Shyne issued a statement last night saying that PM […]

Belize signs Treaty on the prohibition of Nuclear Weapons
On February 6th, 2020, the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Belize to the United Nations, […]

Blogs

Pelican Rescue: Be Careful with Our Dive Bombing Friends!
Yesterday, as we docked the boat at the back of San Pedro town, I spotted a brown pelican – and something was definitely not right. His beak looked wonky and I wanted to get a bit of a closer look before I alerted my friends at ACES – the wild animal rescue heroes we are so lucky to have on Ambergris Caye. My guy had a different issue. I sent the photos to Chris and Christina and left to take my dog to the Vet. We had a 1pm appointment.

A February of Love and Celebration!
We have officially kissed the New Year goodbye and are now embracing 2020’s exciting happenings. February has much to offer, not only is it the month of love but also signals the arrival of El Gran Carnaval de San Pedro! Planning on spending Valentine’s Day on Ambergris Caye? There’s no shortage of romantic venues on La Isla Bonita! From dinners overlooking a warm sunset at Rain Restaurant and Rooftop Terrace to a cruise onboard the YOLO, we can help you impress your special date!

About Belize Sea Turtles
The Belize Barrier Reef is so rich in wondrous species of sea life that this gentle reptile is sometimes overlooked or downright ignored. I remember as a child on school vacation, on an undiscovered San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, how thrilling it was for me to go out with our neighbor, “Don Rafa”, who made his living from the sea. We woke up at dawn and set out for the fringe of the reef to see what bounty we could catch that day. At that time, it was legal to catch sea turtles and sell them for their meat and eggs, also, to use the turtle shell as raw material for all kinds of utensils. Today, this is not allowed. We now must protect and preserve them from extinction.

Forbes “Best in Travel” – Eight Underrated Destinations to Visit in 2020
With everyone rushing to announce the “best” places to visit in 2020, we’re looking at another list: underrated, off-the-beaten-path destinations where you can immerse yourself in nature or culture far from hordes of international tourists. That’s not to say these destinations aren’t known among in-the-know travelers and frequent fliers: they simply deserve much more credit than they get. From charming, cosmopolitan cities to historic gems and untapped beaches, here are 10 underrated places you should visit in 2020—plus, where to stay and what to see.

Backpacking Through Mexico, Belize and Guatemala: A Cheaper Way to Live
One of the best ways to start a backpacking trip through countries like Mexico, Belize and Guatemala would be to book a flight to Cancun, Mexico, and use that city as a starting point. There are many international flights that reach this location and just about all of them are quite affordable. Once you have made it to Cancun, you can pass through the various beaches of Cancun, then pass through Playa del Carmen and then Tulum, before making your way into Belize. Since you are the only one who knows how much time you have to spend on this trip, know that all three of these countries have plenty of hostels to provide room and board.

Solo Female Travel in Belize — Is Belize Safe?
It depends — I think Belize is good for some but not all first-time solo female travelers. If you already have a good amount of travel experience and have just never traveled solo, or if you have lived in a big city, you may have a better time in Belize. Why is this? Because the street harassment is significant, especially on the islands and beaches. It’s hard to go anywhere alone on Caye Caulker without the men yelling stuff at you. It happens day and night, whether they’re on their own or with others, and it can make you feel threatened.

International Sources

The Simone Biles vault that might be too risky for the Olympics
Widely considered the best gymnast of all time, Biles tweeted “2020” along with eyes emojis and a question mark, letting others consider the possibility of seeing this vault in competition. Will Biles actually perform this skill at the Tokyo Olympics or in other events this season? Probably not. But that mere chance, and the potential she showed in the video, will fuel discussions about Biles’s dominance in this sport.

Mexico, Don’t Stand in the Way of Central American Migrants Headed for the U.S.
The American immigration system needs a complete makeover, but López Obrador’s government shouldn’t act as an extension of the Border Patrol.

Videos

February 7, 2020

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Specials and Events

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

Police investigation into the double murder of Dr. Gary Swank and islander Mario Graniel stalls; main suspect believed dead
The last murders registered on Ambergris Caye occurred on June 23, 2019, involving local tour guide Mario Graniel and an American National Dr. Gary Paul Swank, while on a fly-fishing trip off the north-west coast of the island. The shocking double murder threatened the tourism industry, prompting the Belize Police Department to establish a special security unit on the island. Initial investigations led to the custody of several suspects, but no one was ever charged. Seven months after, the latest update provided by police indicates that the investigation has come to a halt after the main suspect is believed to have been killed in Guatemala.

Belizekids.org conducts eye exams in San Pedro Town
Island children and adults benefited from free eye exams from the 3rd to the 7th of February at the San Pedro Lions Den, courtesy of American specialists attached to BelizeKids.org. The week-long eye examinations provide patients with information about their need for glasses or of any potential eye diseases. The non-profit organization has been offering its services since May 2017 by highly skilled professionals out of Stanford University in California, USA. The eye test sessions have been conducted periodically throughout the year as volunteer ophthalmologists donate their services. The ophthalmologists not only provide examinations to inform patients about their need for glasses but can also detect health conditions in the eye such as cataracts, glaucoma, retinopathy, and diabetic complications among others.

San Pedro Town holds 9th Annual Cancer Walk
In commemoration of World Cancer Awareness Day, the San Pedro Cancer Society held its ninth annual candlelight awareness walk on Tuesday, February 4th. This year saw a large number of islanders representing the local business community, the education sector, and even visitors, who met at the Central Park at 6PM to join the solidarity walk.The group left the Central Park heading north on Barrier Reef Drive and onto Pescador Drive. Headed by the San Pedro Traffic Department, they circled the San Juan roundabout and marched back to Central Park where the walk ended. Many of the participants wore t-shirts with images of their beloved ones, who had lost the battle against this disease.

Chief Justice says PM Dean Barrow illegally spent $1.5 billion
The United Democratic Party government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Right Honourable Dean Barrow, has been found responsible for unconstitutionally spending $1.5 billion. This decision was delivered on Friday, January 31st at the Supreme Court by Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin, highlighting that Barrow, Minister of Finance, spent the funds without parliamentary approval, which is a violation of the Constitution of Belize and the Finance and Audit Reform Act.

After School Hockey Program being held at San Pedro Roman Catholic School
The San Pedro Roman Catholic School has quietly been the location for an unorthodox pickup game of hockey. Played on concrete rather than on ice, two games are held every Thursday where kids play at 3:30pm and the adults take over at 4:30pm. After the bell, students participating run to the court and sweep it off, a precursor to the game that organizer Justin Lambert insists on. Mr. Lambert is a business owner and organizes the game with a team of other business owners on the island. It started off as games played just for fun amongst friends.

Ambergris Today

Ambergris Caye In 3rd Place As “Must Visit Places In The World”
The Dispatch Travelogue is an Indian media group and has placed Ambergris Caye as one of its “Must Visit Places in the World” ranking it number three out of a hundred places.

Advancing The Business Momentum Between Belize And Mexico
On January 29, 2020, the Embassy of Belize in Mexico and the Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE), a statutory body under the Ministry of Economic Development, Petroleum, Investment, Trade and Commerce of the Government of Belize (GOB), hosted a one-day seminar focused on advancing the business momentum between both countries.

Various Belizean Sources

CPR & Emergency First Response Trainers
For those wishing to conduct CPR and/or First Response Training to stakeholders, kindly see requirements and more information below.

RF&G Up & Down River Challenge
The RF&G Up & Down River Challenge is this Saturday. It starts at Mahogany Hall Luxury Boutique Resort, and goes to the Hawkesworth. Let them know if you're interested in having a team.

Cannon installation at Government House
An awesome sight to behold. Looking at these cannons sent shivers down my - um, well timbers. The exhibition not yet completed, but will be by tomorrow. Closer inspection of these beasts revealed that none were made by the British. British cannons had an emblem on them, these don't. British pirates hardly if ever sunk the ships they plundered and the reason for that is because a ship loaded with gold at the bottom of the Caribbean sea does nothing for them - aargh! They were not always interested in gold, they also took the cannons. Although there are no marks on any of these, I suspect these are Spanish.

Salsa Dance Class in Corozal
Salsa Dance Classes in Corozal Town. Join in. Corozal professional salsa dancers Mrs. Irma and Don Jose will be conducting dance sessions for a worthy cause, tomorrow Friday, February 7th, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. Contact us for directions at 639 6697.

Power outage 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Friday, February 7 to affect entire Caye Caulker
BEL crew to install a transformer and conduct system upgrades to the Caye Caulker distribution system in preparation for connection of a new generation unit.

CCBTIA meets with Commissioner of Police
This morning the CCBTIA attended a gathering as the Member of the Citizens Advisory Committee to meet with Commissioner of Police on his official visit to Caye Caulker. Besides general safety and security, discussions also included the Palapa Beach Gardens area, collaboration with private sector and the community, training of more tourist police for Caye Caulker, immigration and the importance of open dialogue. The need for new island headquarters and police housing was also on the agenda. The meeting was followed by an inspection of the new police barracks which is still under construction.

COMPOL Chester Williams visits Caye Caulker Village & San Pedro Town
COMPOL Chester Williams, along with ACPs Marco Vidal, Aaron Guzman & Alden Dawson, started off the 2020 Commissioner's Country Tour in Caye Caulker Village & San Pedro Town. COMPOL Williams in a continuous effort in improving the BDP & finding the time to visit, listen to his officers, uses this country tour strategy to address issues, concerns & welfare of the Police Officers. COMPOL Williams also meets with members of the communities/organizations & emphasize on public relations through Community Policing.

COMPOL Chester Williams visits San Pedro Island
COMPOL Chester Williams, along with ACPs Marco Vidal, Alden Dawson, Aaron Guzman, held a town meeting with residents & students of San Pedro Island. COMPOL Williams shares with the gathering his 2020 strategies in addressing crime/violence reduction, public relations & community policing.

La Ruta Maya notice on the passig of Richard Harrison
The Belikin La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge extends condolences to the Harrison family on the passing of Mr. Richard Harrison. Richard Harrison along with his brother Orlando founded and organized the La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge for many years. Richard was also a writer and activist and up until the time of his passing was advocating for cleaner water through the Clean Water Alliance Project. We will keep you posted on funeral arrangements as we get them. May he rest in peace.

The ARt of Clay: Pottery Workshop
Crafters is having another art class! Join us and create your very own plant pot with red clay here in San Ignacio, Cayo! Snacks and drinks will be provided. Sunday, February 16, 2020 at 2 PM.

Belize Tertiary Opportunities Educational Expo

2020 Spanish Lookout Expo
Friday, March 6, 2020 at 9 AM – 5 PM. Spanish Lookout Buy & Sell. Entrance is Free This is a business and family event. No alcohol or the use of obscenity will be permitted at the expo. .

Belize's Wonder Women! Monique Usher
Monique has spent much of her young life as a business-oriented person. From the age of sixteen, she worked in her family’s business. She earned a bachelor’s degree in management from the University of Belize (UB). In late 2012, she started her own small online Facebook business “Aueronne”. Through an internship program with UB, she joined the Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE) in 2013 serving as the marketing and public relations officer. As the Marketing & Public Relations Officer, Monique assisted in the positive positioning of the organization locally, regionally and internationally. She also contributed to publications such as the Invest Belize Magazine.

Paradise Theater playing this weekend
Midway, Jojo Rabbit, Arctic Dogs, 21 Bridges

Channel 7

Kingston Calls Ralph Fonseca's Name, Saldivar Lives To Fight Another Day
Finally today, on the witness stand in a Utah federal courtroom - Jacob Kingston started detailing his business and political contacts in Belize - all facilitated by Lev Dermen. But, the name he dropped is not what you might expect. This evening, in the last few minutes of testimony for the day, Kingston said he traveled to Belize several times with Lev Dermen to explore possible involvement with a gambling businesses - both online and physical casino operations. They were also looking into investments for a fuel depot and the reconstruction of a port. He said those discussions included Ralph Fonseca, described by Kingston as "Belize's Minister of Finance,". Kingston added that he had also met Fonseca at a meeting in Miami.

Richard Harrison Crushed To Death In Freak Accident
Tonight many in the twin towns and indeed the nation are mourning the loss of 55 -year-old Richard Harrison. The Former PUP Standard bearer for Cayo North, former owner of B-H orange juice, and co-founder of the La Ruta Maya Race, died today in a road traffic accident between miles 56 and 57 on the George Price Highway. Harrison was traveling westbound to Belmopan when his SUV was crushed by the cargo of a flatbed truck that was coming from the opposite direction. The flatbed was full of lumber, and it seems that when it whipped around the curve, the lumber slid off, directly unto Harrison's vehicle. He was crushed and trapped inside the vehicle and succumbed to severe head and body injuries by the time emergency personnel were able to extract him. PLUS TV spoke to an eyewitness who wished to appear off camera.

Retired Cop Mark Flowers Still Fighting To Clear His Name
In July of 2016, Superintendent of Police, Mark Flowers, was charged for unlawful sexual intercourse with a 14 year old girl - who had also been impregnated. He emphatically denied the allegation in a round of media interviews, but Flowers was stripped of his command of the GSU, and remanded to prison. Since that time, he was placed on interdiction, he had a stroke, he retired, and most importantly, a paternity test on the teenager's newborn child established that he was not the father. But the charges against him have not gone anywhere.

Deputy Compol Segura On Trial For Traffic Death
Also appearing in the Belmopan Courtroom today was Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mike Segura. His trial for various traffic offences resulting from the death of a 54 year-old woman, and the serious injury of her taxi driver, started today before Justice Cumberbatch.

Small Drug Plane Lands in Monkey River
Another drug plane landed in Belize last night - and, just like the last one, it was in the south. The plane, identified to us as a Piper Navajo with the Panther conversion was found near Monkey River, like so many others, burnt to nothing, with its cargo gone.

Hola COLA, Sayonara Shawn!
He's the COLA Captain who took over from General Giovanni - but it seems Shawn Saldano wasn't long for the job. He took over the Presidency in June of 2019, but has resigned abruptly. A pre-dawn release from COLA says Saldano was only an interim president who has stepped down, quote, "due to unforeseen obligations and circumstances."

Gramma Real Deal
Last night you saw the cops remove a woman from the Channel 7 building to take her to the police station. She came to our office seeking an interview about her 8 year old grandson who had been knocked down. You saw the cops took her away before the interview could be concluded. Well this morning we tracked her down to find out how the boy is doing. Cherisse Halsall has more: Yesterday we brought you the story of Carolette Gideon a concerned grandmother who came to Channel 7 to have her voice heard over an accident involving her 8 year old grandson Dijon Dawson. We caught up with her this morning and she told us what went down yesterday after the cops took her away.

They Shot Customs Building
Police are investigating a disturbing incident that happened last night at the Western border. 7News has confirmed that the customs building was shot - reportedly form the Guatemalan side of the border. The bullet penetrated the customs area, but fortunately no one was around at the time. Reliable reports tell us that around 10:30 last night, a man trying to cross from Guatemala into Belize was turned back because he claimed to have nationality but his documents looked suspicious.

Robbers Couldn't Run Away
Tonight, Corozal Police are getting ready to charge 2 men who were caught while trying to flee from the grocery store they had just robbed. Just after midday yesterday, two armed, masked culprits barged into Henry's Store, which is located on College Road in Corozal Town. They held up the cashier and snatched about two thousand dollars in cash. The two men then ran out the entrance of the store and tried to escape on separate bicycles. But, the cops responded immediately and were able to detain the robbers and recover some of the stolen money.

Was Brian Murdered?
You may remember 36-year-old Brian Harris. He's the Belize City resident who police found suffering from multiple gunshot injuries on a picado road off Mile 17 and a half on the George Price Highway. That was six weeks ago, and police believed that he survived an entire night with those injuries before he was discovered and rushed to the KHMH for medical treatment. He clung to life for 6 weeks until he passed away on Sunday, January 26th. In that time, he was released from the hospital - but he had been paralysed. And, he had to be re-admitted with complications, which is when he died.

Henry Harris Home After Nolle Pros
26-year-old Henry Harris, aka "Alkaline", has been on remand for just over 3 years while awaiting trial for murder. But tonight, he's home free because the DPP's Office had decided to discontinue their prosecution against him. Harris was charged with murder and attempted murder for the 2017 shooting of the two brothers: 44-year-old Clinton "Hog" Frazer, and 36-year-old Nelson Michael Frazer. As we reported, on the night of January 22nd, the Frazer brothers were handing out with several friends near the Conch Shell Bay Fish Market.

COBEC Comes Through For College Kids
COBEC, the Consortium for Belize Educational Cooperation has been around for more than three decades. And for al those decades its been allowing Belizean students to attend certain US colleges while paying tuition fees at discounted rates.

Corona Case of Interest
Tonight, 7News has received credible reports that the Ministry of Health has been alerted to a coronavirus case of interest at the northern border. We are told that a team is responding now to go and investigate that case of what we are told is a Belizean being held at the northern border now - with a recent travel history to China, who is displaying flu like symptoms. We are told the persons is quarantined pending investigations. We'll keep following this very closely.

Tino In Prison
He was charged with murder for the shooting death of a 17-year-old teenager, but tonight 30-year-old Timothy Thurton, aka "Timo", is at the Belize Central Prison Tonight awaiting sentencing. That's after he pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter. The young man he admitted to gunning down is Brandon Bradley, a resident of Lords Bank Village. On the night of April 26, 2017, Bradley was in the company of his brother at an unnamed shop a short distance from his house. At around 10:00 he rode off on his bicycle to go home, but he never made it. While he was on the way, a gunman ambushed and shot him several times to the chest.

A House Is Not A Home Without A Permit
Many people ignore it, but it's the law: if you have any kind of plans to build any homes or buildings, make any additions to your home, or if you're conducting any demolition, you must get a permit from the Central Building Authority. That's the Government agency that polices all forms of construction from small residential projects, all the way up to large-scale development projects. In the past, you would have had to go to their Belmopan office to apply for building permits. But, their offices have now been decentralized, as a result of the 2017 amendment to the Building Act.

Restore Belize Making Mediation Meaningful
Restore Belize in partnership with the Ministry of Human Development, is currently hosting a workshop with Belize City community workers on Capacity Building in Conflict Mediation. The 19 participants include Belize City Community Police Officers and NGO's working with youth in conflict. Today we visited the workshop where Restore Belize Communications officer, Anna Banner Guy, told us that all community workers need to be armed with conflict mediation skills.

Cops Reviewing Surveillance Video
As we told you last night, there was an armed robbery on Tuesday at La Popular Bakery, on Cemetery Road in Belize City. Today Police discussed whether surveillance cameras will be of any use in catching the suspects: Supt. Alejandro Cowo - OC, CIB Belize City: "On Tuesday, the 4th of February, just before 8 p.m., police responded to a robbery report at La Popular Bakery, located on the George Price Highway, where they spoke to one of the workers..."

OCEANA Says Gillnet Ban Must Be Decisive
Oceana is once again calling for a ban on gillnets, but this time the NGO says the ban must be decisive and of meaningful longevity. In December of 2019 GOB declared gillnets destructive, however, the proposed ban has no defined term. And, in a press release today Oceana stated that proposing a ban with no defined term, means that GOB is not only passing on Oceana's offer to provide one million dollars to support Belizean fishers as they transition away from gillnets...

50K For UB Steel
The University of Belize has received a 50,000 Dollar Donation from the Belize Bank. The money is supposed to go directly into the advancement of musicians at the University and on the wider scale will feed the Belizean music culture. The donation will fund a University Steel Band, known as "UB Steel".

Channel 5

Suspected Drug Plane Lands in Monkey River Area
A suspected drug plane landed in the Monkey River area sometime late Wednesday night and early this morning. By the time authorities arrived on the scene, the passengers were gone [...]

Ruta Maya Founder, Richard Harrison, Perishes in RTA Near Ontario
Well-known businessman, Richard Harrison perished in a traffic accident this afternoon. He was travelling in his SUV when pieces of lumber from a flatbed truck landed on his vehicle. The [...]

U.D.P. Leadership Convention to Limited Media Access on Feb. 9th
The executive of the United Democratic Party, following a meeting of its National Party Council last Saturday, has decided to limit access to the local media in covering the upcoming [...]

U.D.P. Chairman Says Media Invited for Counting of Ballots
According to August, at the conclusion of the vote, the media will be invited to witness the counting of ballots, as well as the party leader’s address and the leader-elect’s [...]

Jacob Kingston Testifies on Lev Dermen’s Introduction to Belize
Jacob Kingston continued with his testimony in the Salt Lake court at today’s sitting. Kingston’s testimony is highly anticipated and is critical for the prosecution if it is to seal [...]

A Belizean Perspective on the Effects of Novel Coronavirus in China
The death toll due to the novel corona virus continues to climb; it is reported that more than five hundred and fifty persons have died since the outbreak in Wuhan, [...]

Attorney Explains Ashcroft’s Addition to Legal Challenge
As we reported on Wednesday, Lord Michael Ashcroft has formally applied to join a lawsuit against the Government of Belize that was brought by the Belize Peace Movement.   Ashcroft’s application [...]

What if the Court Rules in Favor of Redistricting?
We asked Marshalleck about the odds of conducting a redistricting exercise ahead of the upcoming general elections given what appears to be a stringent timeline.  He says that should the [...]

Shooting at the Belize-Guatemala Border
Unconfirmed reports are that several gunshots were fired around at the Belize-Guatemala border around ten o’clock on Wednesday night. Photos circulated of shattered glasses caused by the shooting. Reports are [...]

Police Detain Robbers Who Jacked Henry’s Supermarket
On Wednesday afternoon, just after twelve-thirty, a pair of robbers walked into Henry’s Supermarket on College Road in Corozal Town and held up the proprietor at gunpoint. The men got [...]

Police Detain One for La Popular Robbery; Looking for Another
Police have detained one person and looking for another in connection with the robbery of La Popular Bakery on Cemetery Road in Belize City. Just before eight on Tuesday night, [...]

Steel Pans for the U.B., the Belize Bank Grants a Generous Donation
The University of Belize has received a generous donation to start up the “UB Steel.”  The donation of fifty thousand dollars was made by the Belize Bank at the end [...]

OCEANA – “Ban on Gillnets must be decisive”
Last December, the government made a surprise decision that drew criticism from many quarters when it declared that in respect of gillnets, there would be a control and eventual phase [...]

2 Men Charged with Murder For Separate Killings in Corozal
On Tuesday, we reported that two men were charged for separate killings that happened in Concepcion Village in the Corozal District.  Today, Senior Superintendent of Police Hilberto Romero shared details [...]

Update on Shooting Death of Brian Harris
Police say that the death of Brian Harris is now being investigated as a murder. As we reported almost two weeks ago, Harris passed away after being in and out [...]

Mediation Training for Community Workers Who Come in Contact with Youths in Conflict
A weeklong event in Belize City is sharpening the skills of police officers and others who deal with persons, particularly youth, involved in crime.  Restore Belize has organized a training [...]

An International Capacity Building Training to Address Online Chid Exploitation
Representatives from various institutions including Human Services, the Police Department and members from the Judiciary, including judges and prosecutors have been engaged in a three-day workshop on the online exploitation [...]

There is Need for Cybercrime Legislation
ICMEC is based in Alexandria, Virginia in the U.S.A. According to data available, most of the abuse starts at home; twenty-five percent of the abuses are committed by someone in [...]

A Building Series Workshop Wraps Up in Belize City
About two months ago we showed you the start of a series of workshops called the ‘Municipal Building Unit Awareness Workshop Series.’  The Ministry of Housing, along with its partners, [...]

Amandala

Fatal accident near Ontario
We have received reports of a traffic accident near Ontario Village, Cayo District. According to the report, some lumber fell from a truck and onto a black SUV. A male person was trapped inside motionless.

Richard Harrison was the victim of fatal RTA
Update: A businessman and former PUP standard bearer for Cayo North, Richard Harrison, was the victim of the fatal accident on the George Price Highway reported earlier. We will have more details in tomorrow’s newspaper.

Another drug plane lands in Southern Belize
There are reports of another drug plane that landed sometime early this morning in Monkey River in Southern Belize. According to information, when found, the plane was already burnt.

The Reporter

Businessman Richard Harrison Dies In Freak Accident
The Reporter has been able to confirm that the man who died in the freak accident in Ontario in the Cayo District is businessman Richard Harrison. Harrison was well known for his prior ownership of the Big H brand, as well as for the Ruta Maya race, a stint in politics and for being an outspoken activist. He was killed when a truck carrying lumber smashed into his SUV on the George Price Highway.

U.D.P’s Convention: New Media Rules, You Can Come In After The Results
The United Democratic Party will be holding its much anticipated Leadership Convention this Sunday, February 9th at the Belize Civic Center where Party Leader Aspirants John Saldivar and Patrick Faber will face off for the golden title. What is interesting about Sunday’s convention is that for the first time in history, the media will be banned from covering the event.

Mystery Plane #5 – Suspected Drug Plane Landing In Southern Belize
This morning February 6th. Belize Defense Force personnel and the Police are on the scene of another crispy plane (burnt to a crisp), which can remove all evidence of the presence of illicit drugs. The plane is near Monkey River Town, an area that is not too far from another recent suspected drug plane, which was found on January 26th.

LOVE FM

Businessman loses life in road traffic accident
A well known businessman from San Ignacio Town lost his life this afternoon in a road traffic incident on the George Price Highway. 56-year-old Richard Harrison, whose family is known for their Big H Enterprise was traveling west when he encountered trouble on the highway.

Retried BDF captain wants thorough investigations into sexual misconduct allegations
Retired captain, Derricia Castillo-Salazar, who recently created a petition to open investigations into alleged sexual misconduct within the Belize Defense Force, has written an open letter to Brigadier General, Stephen Ortega.

Police capture robbers in Corozal
Quick police response in Corozal led to the capture of a pair of suspected robbers. According to Senior Superintendent, Hilberto Romero, the men fired at police as they were attempting to flee.

Jacob Kingston testifies in US court
The Lev Dermen trial has wrapped up for this week and will reconvene on Monday. Jacob Kingston, the key witness in the Dermen trial took the stand again today where he outlined the start of his business relationship with Dermen and how the fraudulent oil scheme got started.

Media Blocked from UDP convention
In the 2019 Press Freedom Index, Belize was listed as a country with noticeable problems when it comes to freedom of the press. When reporters, journalists or the media are blocked from covering issues of national importance, it is described as anti-democracy which is exactly what is happening as independent media houses will not have access to UDP’s Leadership Convention slated for Sunday, February 9 at the Belize Civic Centre.

Opposition Party still uncertain as to how they will move forward on the CJ’s ruling
PUP Parliamentarians and their legal counsel met today to discuss the way forward as it relates to the recent ruling by the Chief Justice on the PetroCaribe monies. The Chief Justice has ordered that the constitution be amended to facilitate multiple supplementary budgets that were never taken to the House of Representatives for approval as is required by the Finance and Audit Reform Act; subsequently, deeming the spending of over one billion dollars illegal.

Liquor Licensing Board require establishments to have emergency exits
Establishments in Punta Gorda that wish to acquire a liquor license are now required to have emergency exits. The Liquor Licensing Board has provided a window for applicants to have their exits installed.

Conflict Mediation Workshop
A five-day workshop with community workers from Belize City is ongoing through the Youth & Community Transformation Project (YCT). YCT is a comprehensive social intervention, which response to the challenges facing vulnerable groups, particularly at-risk youths on Southside Belize City.

Oceana continues the fight against gillnets
The recent newscasts have been swamped with politics, corruption and crime. In doing their part, Oceana Belize is making sure that the fight against gillnets is not forgotten.

Municipal Building Unit Awareness Workshop series
There was a Municipal Building Unit Awareness Workshop series to highlight the processes needed to get approval to Build in Belize. Throughout the country, there are nine building units who are a representation of the Central Building Authority at the Municipal level. The building’s units came about after the amendment of the Building Act in 2017. According to the Deputy Mayor of CITCO, Oscar Arnold, several Governmental Organizations were lobbying for the transition process to grant permits within the Municipalities.

Education Expo held at UB
An expo catering to tertiary level students took place today in Belmopan. It was well attended, and our Cayo Correspondent, Fem Cruz, got the details.

Legal minds, Law Enforcement and others team up to fight cyber crimes and sexual exploitation
From the surface, it may not seem like Belize is affected by the sexual exploitation of children in cyberspace. The reality is that we are and the reality is that this sort of crime is transnational.

Live and Let Live campaign fights against discrimination
The Live and Let Live Campaign is an opportunity for persons who have faced discrimination to tell their stories. This campaign is in an effort to fight against discrimination.

Breaking Belize News

British High Commission mourns passing of Richard Harrison
The British High Commission issued a statement saying that it is extremely sad at the news […]

CARICOM congratulates Grenada on 46th Independence Anniversary
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) extended congratulations to the Government and People of Grenada on the […]

PUP joins in mourning death of Richard Harrison
The People’s United Party (PUP) joins friends, family and Belizeans in mourning the untimely passing […]

The UDP cause is greater than its leaders
The views expressed in this article are those of the writer and not necessarily those of Breaking Belize News. […]

The tale of the tape for Faber versus Saldivar
As is wide knowledge, National Security Minister John Saldivar is taking on current Deputy Prime […]

Belize mourns loss of businessman Richard Harrison
The Belikin La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge issued a statement extending condolences to the […]

Driver says lumber strap dislodged and burst causing accident
Police have issued an official report regarding the accident that claimed the life of Belizean […]

Former BDF captain writes Commander about sex charges
Former Belize Defence Force (BDF) Captain Derricia Castillo-Salazar, who has been speaking out in the wake […]

Tourism growth exceeds country’s expectations: Belize Tourism Board says “no need to fear”
As pointed out by an article published by Travelpulse.com, Belize’s tourism sector has been growing […]

Belize City Council signs Memorandum of Understanding with Jamaican University
Today Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner and Councilor with responsibility for Youth and Sports, Micah […]

Ammunition found near burnt plane
Authorities this morning processed the scene of a burnt aircraft suspected to have been used […]

Belize to make cultural debut at Taiwanese Lantern Festival
For the first time ever, Belize will be featured at two cultural […]

Reggae legend Bob Marley would have been 75 today
“One love, one heart, let’s get together and feel alright… ” The Reggae legend, Bob […]

“We must protect our people,” says UDP chairman
United Democratic Party (UDP) Chairman Alberto August explained today that the decision to keep the […]

Another suspected drug plane lands in Southern Belize
Reports to Breaking Belize News is that a suspected narco plane landed sometime this morning […]

Chester Williams clarifies accusations of police promotions mixed in with UDP leadership campaign
Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams issued a statement today clarifying statements being shared on social […]

Blogs

Top 3 Most Private Destinations in Belize
Belize is an entirely beautiful country that has over 239 miles of coastline with 200+ islands or cayes. The most popular cayes are Caye Caulker, Ambergris Caye, and Tobacco Caye. However, Belize has a number of private islands that sometimes accommodate celebrities, and can only be accessed by a private boat or helicopter. Here are three of the most exclusive destinations in Belize:

Experience The Beautiful Island Of Caye Caulker In Belize
Caye Caulker is nothing but cool, cool Caribbean through and through. It’s easy to get there in under an hour. The eclectic mix of islanders are easy going and friendly and the vibe is “make yourself at home”! No one wears shoes and everything is readily available from tours to food and everything in between…just ask. You’ll see golf carts and bicycles whizzing around, vendors of fruit, arts, and crafts, shrimp on a stick, coconuts, you name it. On the sea, there are parasailers, snorkelers, fisherfolk, locals, tourists, bustling, and content.

Xunantunich Maya Site in Cayo, Belize
In the Maya language, Xunantunich means “maiden of the rock” or “stone woman.” The Xu is pronounced like shoe. It is situated on the Western or George Price Highway, 80 miles west of Belize City, across the river from the village of San Jose Soccotz. It can be reached by ferry daily between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. This site is less than 1.5 kilometers (1 mile) from some lovely rapids of the Mopan River and provides an impressive view of the entire river valley. Xunantunich consists of six plazas surrounded by more than 26 temples and palaces. The top of El Castillo sits on a limestone cavern and affords a panoramic view of the entire expanse of the ruin and the surrounding jungle.

Enjoy The Sidewalk Arts And Music Festival In Placencia Belize
Belize is a wonderful mix of culture, and you can experience every wonderful part of that mix at the Sidewalk Arts and Music Festival in Placencia. This vibrant festival celebrates everything uniquely Belizean. If you want to experience the colors, taste, and music that make up the beautiful quilt of Belizean culture, you can’t miss this event. The festival has become a yearly tradition in Belize, turning the quaint seaside village of Placencia into a vibrant, lively center of music, color, food, dance and fun for all ages. Artists, craftspeople, musicians, chefs, jewelry makers and all types of artisans descend on this beautiful village to transform it with color, taste, and sound.

Follow Cupid to Belize, the Romance Capital of the Caribbean
There’s a place designed for lovers that has no equal and it’s just a couple of hours by plane from the U.S.A and Canada.: Belize. Everyone speaks romance. Your dollar stretches further than a bridal garter. And since Belize’s network of resorts is committed to your privacy, you two don’t have to see another soul once you check into your accommodations. Whether you decide to book an accommodation in a treehouse, within a forest or on the beach, Belize resorts cater to so many couples, lodgings are designed with love in mind. Luxury digs are roomy, beautifully appointed with tropical furnishings and feature modern bathrooms.

International Sources

Ambergris Caye: 3/100 Must Visit Places in the World
Ambergris Caye is the largest island in Belize, and the main destination for travellers to this western Caribbean nation. San Pedro Town is the only town on the island. Ambergris Caye has been the hub of the areas maritime trade for centuries. Fishing, coconuts, and chicle were historic means of islanders support, but the last thirty years have led to a large growth in both the dive and scuba trade, and ecotourism. The rich variety of things to do in San Pedro Town makes Ambergris Caye the gateway to travel in this beautiful country.

Marie Sharp's Smokin' Marie Hot Sauce Review
Great review of Smokin' Marie's, one of the best hot sauces ever. Most all of her sauces are reviewed on that site. He hasn't done the 2nd best hot sauce, Marie's Green Habanero, yet.

Videos

February 6, 2020

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, 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 Tiger Sharks net 82-77 victory against Punta Gorda Panthers
The National Elite Basketball League (NEBL) bounded into its third week with four games across the country, on Friday, January 31st and Saturday, February 1st. One of those games saw the San Pedro Tiger Sharks claim a close victory against the newest team in the league, the Punta Gorda Panthers. The San Pedro Tiger Sharks were led by Antone Robinson Jr., who netted 22 points and pulled 12 rebounds, while Martevious Adams finished with a double-double of 19 points and ten rebounds. Jihad Wright was the third player on the team with a double-double with 13 points and ten rebounds. Francis Arana finished the night with 12 points, six rebounds, and six dimes.

Isla Bonita Elementary School’s annual Cultural Day celebrates Belize’s diversity
On Friday, January 31st, the public was invited to Isla Bonita Elementary School (IBES) to partake in their Culture Day. Held every year, each level from Infant one to Standard six is assigned a cultural group to represent. The projects are graded, so students must be diligent and accurate with their portrayal and research. Each grade level had a booth set up on the school compound with information and visual displays of their assigned culture. Represented were the Chinese, Lebanese, East Indian, Mennonite, Mestizo, Garifuna, and Creole cultures.

Public Meeting with Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams
Public Notice: The general public is invited to a Public Meeting to be held on Thursday, February 6th at the Angel Nunez Auditorium starting at 6PM. The meeting will serve as a forum for residents to voice their concerns on issues with the police. This is in an effort to foster better relations with islanders. In attendance will be the Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams along with the Coastal Executive Officer, Superintendent Christopher Noble. There will be presentations and a session of questions and answers addressing any concerns from the residents.

Annual Groundhog Day Charity Poker Run
The Palapa Bar and Grill kicked off the first day of February with their annual charity poker run. This was the biggest since its inception, with 200 poker hands played. The event started at 10:30am when players were invited to buy their place in the game. Following instructions, an excited and energetic crowd dispersed into different boats and were shuttled off to the different establishments participating in the poker run. Guests were treated to drinks and food specials, scenic boat rides throughout the day, and an ongoing poker game.

Gilberto Chanek sentenced for Carlitos Valdez’ 2018 murder
25-year-old Gilberto Chanek has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for the 2018 murder of Carlitos Valdez. Charged with murder almost two years ago, Chanek pled guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter in December 2019. When he was taken before Justice Colin Williams on Thursday, January 30th, a third of his sentence time was reduced, including time spent while on remand, leaving eight and a half years to his prison term.

Various Belizean Sources

June 26th, 27th, & 28th. The Placencia Lobsterfest is a fundraising event for the Placencia Village Council and the Placencia Chapter of the Belize Tourism Industry Association. Our food vendors have you covered with shrimp, fish, chicken, steak, pork and sumptuous vegetarian sides! Many of the cooks at the Placencia Lobsterfest come to the beach carrying years of experience in the local restaurant industry and strong family kitchen traditions. Food is Placencia’s ultimate cultural immersion experience. Taste Creole, Mayan, Garifuna, Caribbean, European, Asian and North American culinary influences at the leading gastronomic party in Belize!

18th Annual Voice of the West Elocution Contest
Rotary Club of San Ignacio's Voice of the West Elocution Contest is today. Cayo high school students compete for cash prizes and a trophy for their school in three categories of public speaking. The categories are Original Poems, Published Poems or Excerpts, and Persuasive Speech. Come out and cheer for your school

2020 BVA Female National Championship on Saturday
The 2020 BVA Female National Volleyball Championship will be held in Belmopan City at the UB Gymnasium and Hilltop Court on February 8 & 9, 2020. The Technical Meeting will be held on Friday, February 7 at 7:00PM at Hilltop Office. This is a compulsory meeting for coaches and captains.

Table Tennis U15 - U18 Central American Championships
Tune in to The National Channel Feb 4-8. The Belize Table Tennis Association (BTTA) is hosting the Central American U15 and U18 Table Tennis Championships from February 4 – 8, 2020 in Belize City. This tournament is featuring the very top junior players throughout Central America and has brought over 140 participants to Belize. The BTB is a proud sponsor of this event.

Entrepreneur of the Month
For our first monthly entrepreneur profile, we are proud to feature an alumnus of the State Department's Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative - YLAI, Hernan Urbina. Born and raised in Orange Walk, Hernan has been interested in business and entrepreneurship since a young age. Growing up, Hernan showed his interest in marketing and development through garage sales to helping out at his grandfather’s local store. After college, Hernan applied his new skills to developing and managing his family-run ice cream shop, IceBreak.

Bob Marley's Birthday Tribute
Thursday Feb. 6, 7pm until... Fundraiser for Dara's Feeding Program.

U.S. Embassy Belize in Orange Walk
U.S. Embassy Belize is proud to kick off the Artisanal Entrepreneurship Seminar in Orange Walk today! In partnership with Nich Belize and BELTRAIDE, we invited U.S. speaker Caroline Gutman to lead a two-day interactive seminar helping 40 local #artisans find ways to expand their business while preserving Belize’s unique cultural and artistic traditions.

Sidewalk Chalk Competition Signup
Sign up for the ‘Sidewalk Chalk Competition’ at the annual Street Art Festival... 29/2/2020... Albert Street, downtown Belize City.

Statement on the Novel Coronavirus to Support Taiwan’s Inclusion at the World Health Organization
The Government of Belize is aware of a small number of cases of the Novel Coronavirus (2019 - nCoV) in the Republic of China (Taiwan) as confirmed by Taiwan’s Center for Disease Control (CDC) and supports the ongoing efforts of the Taiwanese government in their response to this outbreak. The Ministry of Health also notes that Taiwan’s proximity to the origin of the outbreak would warrant, with a sense of urgency, their full involvement in international consultations at the World Health Organization (WHO) level to properly advise and take care of its 23 million population. Taiwan’s experience in global infectious diseases can certainly benefit the entire region and their voice and participation at WHO must, therefore, be guaranteed.

Groundhog Day Pub Crawl in San Pedro
Great photos earlier this week taken by my friend Brian of the Groundhog Day Pub Crawl and the stop at Rojo Beach Bar & Lounge. Kelly McGuire playing for a HUGE crew. You can still see him! Schedule attached

BTB Love Belize Sea Challenge
The date is set...BTB Love Belize Sea Challenge 2020

Exodus Water Taxi will commence running February 6TH, 2020
Good evening to everyone and customers. We are glad to say that the wait is over, tomorrow the 6 of February 2020 we will be back on service normal run at 7 am from San Pedro and 3 pm from Corozal and Intervals at sarteneja. Thank you from our behalf of Exodus Water Taxi. For Reservations Contact them at their page: https://www.facebook.com/Exodus-Water-Taxi-418257368906579/ Or contact them at 634-9178.

Workshop Meeting to discuss about the Corozal Artist By the Bay
Please pass the word and share this date: THURSDAY 13th FEBRUARY 2020 2PM Corozal Artist By the Bay MEET UP Bring Art Samples if possible Bring Ideas and an open mind. We Are Creative People Togetherness Vision Equals an Empowered Future!

SHJC was at the Education Expo

Belize Living Heritage Website
We are excited to announce the launch of the Belize Living Heritage Website. This has been possible through the continuous support from the communities, cultural organizations and cultural practitioners who continue to safeguard and promote our culture, a warm thank you to all! We invite you to join us Tuesday, February 11, 2020, at the Bliss Center for the Performing Arts at 10:30 am.

Channel 7

Jacob Kingston Takes The Stand, Says Nothing About Belize
Finally, this afternoon at 3:40 Belize time, Jacob Kingston took the stand in Salt Lake City, Utah. As we have reported, Kingston is testifying against Lev Dermen, known in Belize as Levon, an investor seeking influence who was known to associate with John Saldivar. His testimony is much anticipated because he claims to have known about large payments Dermen made to government officials in Belize. And Kingston also exchanged text messages with John Saldivar. 7News has a Utah based freelance reporter in the courthouse, following everything very closely and she reports that nothing relating to Belize came out of Kingston's first day of testimony.

UDP Convention Will Be Closed to Media
And, just as all this is coming to a head, so is the UDP's countdown to its first leadership convention in the party's history. Indeed, at the pace things are going at the courthouse in Salt Lake City, Jacob Kingston may not even get to the Belize part of his testimony before Sunday's big dance. And, all things considered, that favors John Saldivar - who - as you can see from the ads in the news - is driving hard to Sunday. And, while the media is very much looking forward to the convention at the Civic Center in Belize City, we learned today that, in a first, the UDP will be having a closed convention, meaning the media is NOT going to be allowed inside.

Cops Roughed Up “The Real Deal”
An 8 year old schoolboy was reportedly hit by a teacher's car yesterday as he tried to cross the street to catch a bus. The eight-year-old boy sustained a head injury that required 8 stitches. And while he has been sent home today his mother and grandmother have made a complaint to the police, and tried to contact the teacher at Grace Primary School. When those attempts were unsuccessful that grandmother Carollette Gideon came to Channel 7 to have her voice heard but it seems the cops didn't want her to speak out. Here's how it all went down at our office this evening:

Belize Top Ranking on Regional Murder Rate List
In 2019, the Latin America and Caribbean region is still one of the most murderous regions in the world. And, Belize was among the most deadly. Insightcrime.org - which does an annual overview of crime trends in the region reports that Belize's murder rate of 33.5 per 100,000 puts it in 6th place. Venezuela is the highest in the region, and likely the world with a murder rate of 60.3, while Jamaica is second at 47.4, and Honduras is third at 41.2. Trinidad is fourth at 37.3, and Salvador is fifth at 36, and Belize is sixth at 33.5. Mexico, Columbia, Guatemala and Puerto Rico fill out the top ten.

Coast Guard catches Pirates With Live Rounds
The Coast Guard has prevented the distribution of unlicensed ammunition. They conducted operations in the area of Drowned Caye on Tuesday 05 February 2020 and discovered four persons in possession of 17 live rounds of unlicensed ammunition. One of them tried to run off unsuccessfully. The Coast Guard team catched him.

A Story With Real Heart
1 in 100 children are born with a congenital heart defect, and if you are a parent to Belizean child with such a diagnosis, it can be crushing. That's because of a lack of treatment options in Belize. That began to change in the 1970s when the Rotary Club of Belize began sending children to the US to have minor and major heart surgeries. We've come a bit further along since then and, today, Pediatric Cardiologists visit the KHMH twice a year to perform diagnosis and even surgeries. Cherisse Halsall headed to the hospital's clinic today to find out more about the state of pediatric heart disease in Belize.

Teacher’s License Talk
Last night, we showed you the breakthrough that the Ministry of Education made with leadership of the Belize National Teachers Union. After a marathon 5-hour meeting, it appears that the Ministry has convinced the teachers that there will be no need for countrywide industrial action. As we told you, the Ministry was contemplating making changes to the education rules which the teachers were not comfortable with. After they decided that their concerns weren't being adequately addressed, there was a call to escalate against the Government. But, before any plan was set in motion, the Minister of Education called a meeting with the leadership of the union to discuss possible compromises.

A Purloined Motorcycle in A Pigpen
A motorcycle in a pig pen led police to the arrest of three suspects in rural Belize. Norvell Flowers, Kerlin Loy and Marlon Mangar, all of them 23-year-old residents of Flowers Bank, appeared in court today. They were charged with handling stolen goods. On February 4 Ellin Perdomo reported to the police that he was missing his Meilun motorcycle, which he left in his yard in Bermudian Landing. The police found the missing object in a pig pen at Flowers' residence and the investigation lead to the arrest of the defendants.

Vehicle Careens Into Canal
Last night we told you about the Climate Vulnerability Reduction Program to clean the City's canals. Well, today, the driver of a Jeep Liberty went on a swim in the Lakeview Street canal. When we got to the area this afternoon, we saw that the Jeep had barreled through the guard rails and crashed into the canal. The driver was not hurt, but did not wish to speak to us. Reports say the vehicle experienced brake failure as it was coming off the bridge unto Sitee Street.

Taiwan WHO?
Last night we told you that the Central American and Caribbean regions remain free of novel Coronavirus cases And, tonight the Ministry of Health is supporting China's neighbor Taiwan in its ongoing efforts to respond to the outbreak. The Ministry in a press release today advocated for Taiwan's full involvement in international Consulting at the World Health Organization stating that: "Taiwan's experience in global infectious diseases can certainly benefit the entire region and their voice and participation at WHO must, therefore, be guaranteed."

COBEC Fair For Future Students
Today, high school students from across the country converged at the University of Belize's Conference Center, which is located on their Belmopan Campus. The students were there to attend the 32nd Annual COBEC Conference. For those who don't know, COBEC is short for the Consortium for Belize Educational Cooperation. It was formed in the 1980s as a means for educational institutions in Belize to build ties with their counterparts in other countries, for the purpose of strengthening and expanding the capabilities of its members in higher-level education.

BEL Bringing The Big Unit To Caye Caulker
We've reported extensively on the power problems on Caye Caulker. Well, island residents will be getting another blackout, but this one for a good cause. BEL says that its new 1,705 kilowatt generator from Panama, arrived in the country on Sunday. It will be ferried to the island by Friday, February 7th and will be installed as part of the island's electricity infrastructure within a week.

BATSUB, Old Pirates?
As the colonial rulers of Belize - the British governed Belize and freely exploited its resources for centuries - and that should have ended with independence. But according to an article by the DAILY MAVERICK out of South Africa, even after the Independence, our land doesn't seem so independent. The South African daily online newspaper this week took a closer look at the Status of Forces Agreement between Belize and the UK and the effects of it. This Agreement enables thousands of British soldiers, as part of the British Army Training Support Unit Belize (BATSUB), coming to Belize for their military training. It includes in total 13 sites across the country where 3,750 troops a year train in a series of six annual operations.

Robbery At A Bakery
There was a robbery at La Popular bakery on cemetery Road in Belize City last night. It happened at about 07:30 when two men entered the bakery as if to make a purchase. That's when they approached the Cashier's desk. One of them pulled out a pistol pointing it at the cashier and demanded money.

A Night of Laughs For All
This Saturday night, Jankunu productions is hosting a pre Valentine's comedy show. We talked to one of the organizers Sandra McKay about it: Sandra McKay, Jankunu Productions: "Coming up this Saturday night is a standup comedy show and a big comedy Giants competition as well, so that we can showcase local talent that is bodying and coming up in the country. Our headliner for the show is Dahlia Harris from Jamaica." "So it's going to be a night of fun and laughter. Lots of love - that's why we're calling it pre-valentine, because we'll be giving away a lot of Valentine type of gifts like dinner for two..."

Channel 5

Live From Salt Lake City; Jacob Kingston Testifies in Lev Dermen Trial
The star witness in the case against Lev Dermen arrived today at the court in Utah in handcuffs. Jacob Kingston is expected to testify through next week Monday since he [...]

Redistricting – An Application is Filed on the Constitutionality of the Current Legislative Boundaries
In the local courts in Belize City today, an application was filed with the Supreme Court, which would add Lord Michael Ashcroft to the case submitted to require the Belize Elections and [...]

Coast Guard Bust Fishermen Near Drown Caye with Unlicensed Ammo
A coast guard operation, carried out in the vicinity of Drowned Caye on Tuesday, has resulted in the arrests of four men who were found in possession of unlicensed ammunition.  [...]

Murder Victim Refutes Police’s Theory; They Say Anthony Parks Wasn’t Killed Because of Drugs
On Monday, we reported about the death of Anthony Parks. He was shot in Independence Village on the morning of January twenty-second. Ever since then, he was hospitalized up until [...]

Robbers Target La Popular Bakery on Cemetery Road
On Tuesday night, a pair of robbers targeted La Popular Bakery on Cemetery Road in Belize City. Reports are that around seven-thirty p.m., two men, posing as customers, entered the [...]

Patrick Faber Explains Need for 180 Contact Days
Amending the Education Rules to reflect particular changes that are favorable to teachers across the country was a contentious issue for the Belize National Teachers Union.  Prior to Tuesday’s marathon [...]

B.N.T.U. Tells Government to Slow Down on Equal Opportunities Bill
Proponents of the Equal Opportunities Bill, including the executive of the National AIDS Commission, the Special Envoy for Women and Children, as well as the Ministry of Human Development and [...]

Over 5,000 Signatures in Objection to Equal Opportunities Bill
When consultations took place in the south, there was an overwhelming opposition to the posed bill. Over five thousand signatures have now been affixed to several documents circulated within the [...]

Ashton Thompson Awaits Sentencing for Manslaughter Conviction
Teshawn Williams is back behind prison where he is awaiting a sentence for the charge of manslaughter in the stabbing death of Eaton Lamb. The accused is the cousin of [...]

Meighan Brothers Remanded for Being Members of a Gang
The brothers: Tyrone, Ellis and Shaquille Meighan appeared in courtroom of Senior Magistrate Tricia Pitts Anderson on Tuesday and were charged for being members of a gang, specifically Banak Zone [...]

Live & Let Live: Identifying the Face of Discrimination
A campaign is ongoing to build consciousness on what discrimination is and to encourage action when it surfaces in the homes, workplace and other areas. The Live and Let Live [...]

Two Medical Schools in Belize De-listed in India?
The Embassy of India in Mexico has confirmed that two medical universities in Belize have been de-listed by the Medical Council of India, following complaints that both institutions do not [...]

Coronavirus Confirmed in Taiwan; G.O.B. Issues Statement of Support
Late this evening, the government issued a statement in support of one of its strongest allies.  It involves the novel coronavirus, which has been detected in Taiwan.  The statement says [...]

Chef Tim August Takes Over Dara Feeding Program for the Day!
Chef Tim August of Stone Crab Bar and Grill in Dangriga took over the Dara Feeding Programme in Belize City on Tuesday. As you know, Joel ‘Dara’ Robinson and his [...]

Dara’s Feeding Programme is Off Life Support
So Chef Tim August was the guest chef for the day at Dara’s Feeding Programme on Tuesday. He cooked for and fed over fifty students. It was a special treat [...]

U.B. & M.O.E. Host Educational Expo
The University of Belize and Ministry of Education held the Belize Tertiary Options and Opportunities Education Expo, formerly known as the COBEC Fair, in Belmopan today. The UB and COBEC University partners [...]

The 2020 Central American Championships Hosted in Belize
A regional table tennis competition is taking place in Belize. It is being hosted by the Belize Table Tennis Association and as many as a hundred and ten players will [...]

LOVE FM

Lecture on congenital heart diseases at the KHMH
At the Gift of Life clinic today, local doctors were given the gift of knowledge. A lecture series is being held at the clinic for doctors at the KHMH to be more familiar with congenital heart diseases in children.

Gift of Life back in Belize to help children
The Gift of Life clinic is a semi-annual event that assists children with congenital heart diseases. The clinic, which has been occurring for over 20 years, works with these children to determine diagnosis as well as treatment options.

Deputy Prime Minister addresses the enrichment of elected officials
Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Faber was the guest on our extended Morning Show yesterday where he spoke on multiple issues. One such issue had to do with the pending redistricting of the electoral divisions. He explained the delay but added that he supports the exercise.

BCCI Workshop on corruption
The Belize Chamber of Commerce (BCCI) participated in an all-day workshop at the BCCI Headquarters. The BCCI partnered with the Love Foundation to organize the eighth such event. The aim of the workshop was to educate their members on different ways to combat corruption. Various organizations have already engaged in the workshop such as the Belize National Teacher’s Union and Community Leaders. The facilitator of the workshop, Dr. Louis Zabaneh briefed the media on the different laws they reviewed during the workshop.

Briceno says he was investigated for corruption and came out clean
Leader of the Opposition, John Briceno says he is clean of corruption and bribery. Briceno made the statement in an exclusive interview with Love News as he responded to several allegations against him. It is 2020, an election year and the main two political parties are already accusing each other of corruption and mismanagement of power.

La Popular Bakery robbed Again.
La Popular Bakery on Cemetery Road in Belize City was robbed just after seven o’clock last night

Jevon Belizaire charged for harm
26-year-old Jevon Belizaire was found guilty for a single charge of harm in court today before Chief Magistrate, Sharon Fraser. He was fined $505.00 for hitting a man with a piece of lumber in his neck and punching him in the eye.

Trio charged for theft of a motorcycle
Three Flowers Bank residents were at the Magistrate’s Court today to answer to a single charge of handling stolen goods. The trio allegedly stole a motorcycle from Bermudian Landing and took it to Flowers Bank yesterday.

BAPDA supports EOB
Many organizations have been voicing their opinions on the Equal Opportunities Bill. Religious organizations in particular have come out against the bill.

Faber supports UNCAC
The norm in any election year is the promise from all politicians for transparency and accountability. This pre-campaign season, however, the buzz word seems to be ‘corruption’.

Breaking Belize News

Belize urges for Taiwan’s inclusion in World Health Organization amidst coronavirus crisis
In a press release issued late this evening, the Government of Belize is pivoting off […]

Jevon Belizaire fined for harm in street-side altercation over bicycle
Jevon Belizaire, 26, a labourer of Antelope Street Extension, was charged with wounding when he […]

It’s official – Activist Shawn Saldano resigns, Edward Young is COLA’s interim president
Nearly eight months after he took the reins from Geovannie Brackett, youth activist Shawn Saldano […]

Two armed men rob Popular Bakery in Belize City
Authorities are investigating an armed robbery that occurred last night in Belize City. Esmeralda Sanchez, […]

Stolen motorcycle found in pig pen – trio charged for handling stolen goods
Three residents of Flowers Bank, Belize District were charged with handling stolen goods when they […]

It’s still about the base; Faber claims he has “majority” of leadership race delegates
The upcoming leadership convention for the United Democratic Party is only five days away and […]

Patrick Faber says Lev Dermen scandal weakens UDP’s chances for re-election
As general elections draw nearer, the United Democratic Party is gearing up to seek a […]

COLA President Shawn Saldano to resign
Citizens Organized for Liberty through Action (COLA) Interim President Shawn Saldano this afternoon spoke to Breaking […]

President Donald Trump not guilty in impeachment trial
As expected, the United States Senate has voted to acquit President Donald J. Trump on both […]

Caribbean Development Bank hands over new highway patrol vehicles to Government of Belize
This week the Caribbean Development Bank, under the Second Road Safety Project, handed six new […]

Universal Hardware to host 10th annual Family and Friends Sale
As a way to give back to its customers, Universal Hardware is hosting it’s 10th […]

Southern Belize collects over 4,000 signatures opposing Equal Opportunities Bill
Residents in Southern Belize have mobilized and collected over 4,000 signatures singing onto a declaration […]

Public advised not to feed crocodiles
The American Crocodile Education Sanctuary (ACES) is reminding the public not to feed crocodiles. ACES informed […]

Sentencing due for manslaughter convicts
The Supreme Court will sentence two men in separate cases after mitigation pleas were taken. […]

Meighan brothers accused of being gang members
The Meighan brothers of Banak Street, Belize City – Tyrone, 26; Ellis, 27; and Shaquille are […]

Dreaming of Belize Retirement? 5 Important Factors You Need to Know
: It’s easier than you think—and the government of Belize is delighted to help you every […]

Blogs

Februrary Photos Around Ambergris Caye: North, West and Center
Good morning all from Cayo Frances Farm & Fly, February is starting out BEAUTIFULLY – warm sunny weather…a bit of breeze…the perfect time to test out my new camera. Yes, I’ll be calling it “my new camera” for the next year. My first real camera is going to take a while to get used to… I’ll start with a few pictures I took in town yesterday and then move around the island.

Best Dessert Shops in Belize
What’s a romantic Valentine’s date without dessert? Get to know the sweetest places in Belize City sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. “Sweetness is my weakness” I once heard a Belizean say. Valentine’s day is all about the chocolates, cakes, cupcakes, and sweets! There is always room for dessert after a hearty meal or for some, it’s all about indulging in a delectably sweet pastry seduction. Here are a few sweet spots in Belize City.

Belize Airport And Moving Around The Country
Arriving at the airport in Belize is the start of a magical, exciting vacation. Once you’re there, however, you need to know how to get from the airport to your next destination. You will more than likely arrive at Philip Goldson, Belize’s only international airport. The airport’s abbreviations are BZE and PGIA. It’s located in the village of Ladyville, about 10 miles from Belize City. Before you get off your arriving airplane, flight attendants will give you immigration paperwork to fill out. When you get off the plane, you will go through Customs and Immigration. You will need your paperwork and a valid passport. Your passport entitles you to stay in Belize for up to 30 days.

Cave Tubing And The Inland Blue Hole Experience In Belize
Cave tubing through Belize’s limestone cave systems and visiting St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park are two of the most common activities for tourists in Belize. Both these activities can be done in one day and are very popular with cruise ship passengers that have time restrictions. If you haven’t experienced any of these destinations before and are planning to visit, here is some information about them: What is Cave Tubing Like? This is an amazing experience; and one of the best ways for you to really see the beauty of Belize. You and the group that you’re with get your own tube to float in down the stream; this tour normally lasts for about an hour and it’s such a relaxing experience where you can just lay back and soak in the sun. Inside the cave is pretty dark and your guides will be there to direct you. You’ll notice small waterfalls and many limestone structures made from the stalactites and stalagmites.

Visiting Cerros Maya Temple in Corozal Bay
Cerros is an Eastern Lowland Maya archaeological site in northern Belize that functioned from the Late Preclassic to the Postclassic period. The site reached its apogee during the Mesoamerican Late Preclassic and at its peak, it held a population of approximately 1,089 people. The site is strategically located on a peninsula at the mouth of the New River where it empties into Chetumal Bay on the Caribbean coast. As such, the site had access to and served as an intermediary link between the coastal trade route that circumnavigated the Yucatán Peninsula and inland communities.

International Sources

Ice cream shops, one in Texas and one in Belize, share the scoop on success
When Hernan Urbina was 5 years old and his mother bought him a bag of candy, he spotted an opportunity. He sold the candy to his classmates at school, mimicking what he heard his father had done as a child. Hernan Urbina Sr. had grown up selling popsicles from a tricycle in little towns in Belize, the small Caribbean nation that borders Mexico and Guatemala. Now, the 29-year-old graduate of the Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative manages his family’s ice cream parlor in Orange Walk, Belize. Called Ice Break, the parlor has grown in its first decade to employ 10 workers. Its success can be partly attributed to the son’s salesmanship and the father’s ice cream flavors — everything from dragon fruit to hot Cheeto ice cream.

The Antillean manatee produces broadband vocalizations with ultrasonic frequencies
Antillean manatees produce vocalizations reported to be important for communication, but their vocal behavior throughout their geographic range is poorly understood. A SoundTrap recorder (sample rates: 288/576kHz) was deployed in Belize to record vocalizations of wild manatees in a seagrass channel and of a young rehabilitated and released manatee in a shallow lagoon. Spectral analysis revealed broadband vocalizations with frequencies up to 150kHz and a high proportion of calls with ultrasonic components. Ultrasonic frequency components appear prevalent in their vocal repertoire and may be important to manatee communication.

Conflicting Signals Are Making For A Highly Uncertain Forecast For The 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season
The forecast for the 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season continues to be highly uncertain as there are conflicting signals in regard to whether the season may be inactive or active. I wanted to go over the factors that could make for an active season and the factors that could make for a quiet hurricane season. Factors That Could Lead To An Active Or Very Active Hurricane Season: ENSO Conditions: There is the possibility for either cool neutral ENSO conditions or La Nina conditions developing during the Hurricane Season. The CFS model, in fact, is forecasting the development of strong La Nina conditions. Meanwhile, the consensus ENSO guidance seems to be forecasting neutral ENSO conditions for the 2020 Hurricane Season, as is the ECMWF model. Should we see neutral ENSO conditions or La Nina conditions, it could lead to an active hurricane season.

Vanilla beans are worth the splurge
While Valentine’s Day usually focuses on chocolate bon-bons and decadent desserts like molten lava cake with extra hot fudge sauce on top, lately I’ve been exploring another very sexy flavor, vanilla. When I used to wear perfume, it usually contained a hint of vanilla and I know women who will dab a bit of pure vanilla extract behind their ears. It’s certainly an alluring aroma, one we love to breathe in when sugar cookies bake in the oven. Now, other species can be found in the Caribbean, some parts of South America and Madagascar, off the coast of East Africa. It’s also found in southeast Asia and is cultivated in the South Pacific, especially Tahiti, but botanists now believe that even their vanilla originated in Guatemala where pre-Columbian Maya grew cacao and used vanilla as a flavoring in chocolate. It was also found growing with cacao and annatto in southwestern Belize where the Maya used all three for personal consumption.

Belizean culture shines at Taiwan's lantern festivals
Belize is launching two themed lanterns at the Taiwan Lantern Festival in Taichung and Taipei Lantern Festival, which begin on Saturday (Feb. 8). According to the Central America Trade Office (CATO), Belize will feature two kinds of lanterns. One pictures the renowned Belizean attraction, the “Great Blue Hole” (a giant marine sinkhole off the coast) and the other is inspired by Mayan culture. They can be seen at the Taiwan Lantern Festival in Taichung and Taipei Lantern Festival. This is the first time that Belize has been invited to exhibit at the Taiwan Lantern Festival, the office added.

Belize Tourism Growth Outpacing National Plan
Belize’s emergence as one of the fastest-growing Caribbean tourism destinations continued in 2019 as the country reported 503,177 overnight, land-based visitors last year. The figure represents a 2.8 percent increase over the 489,261 visitors recorded in 2018 and the first time the nation has hosted more than one half-million visitors in any year, according to Belize Tourism Board (BTB) officials. Belize’s National Sustainable Tourism Master Plan, published in 2012, targets a goal of 556,000 overnight arrivals by 2030. “With 10 years remaining, the 2019 figure is representative of already attaining more than 90 percent of this 2030 vision,” said BTB officials in a statement.

Mayan mystery: Shock discovery made inside 'cursed entrance to underworld' revealed
The so-called entrance, which is actually a cenote – or sinkhole – was discovered in the city of Mayapan, just south of the Mexican town of Telchaquillo. Archaeologist Bradley Russell, from College of St Rose, and a group of divers bravely scaled-down roughly 20 metres into the unknown. But, the team had reason to be cautious. Dr Russell explained to National Geographic why the sinkhole is said to be “evil”. He said in 2014: “To this day, people do not get drinking water from that cenote, it is generally considered taboo. “It’s off-limits, people do not let their children plan near there and there’s a lot of beliefs around this cenote having evil forces or malevolent forces associated with it.

Scientists document collapse of the white-lipped peccary
Populations of white-lipped peccaries, a 'new world' pig-like species usually found throughout Central American tropical forests, are in freefall, new research finds. White-lipped peccaries have declined by as much as 87% to 90% from their historical range in Central America, signaling a population collapse of a key species in the region, according to a study published recently in the journal Biological Conservation. The research was conducted by a team of 50 scientists from 30 organizations including Washington State University, the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and El Colegio de Frontera Sur.

Scientists document collapse of key Central American forest engineer
White-lipped peccaries have declined by as much as 87% to 90% from their historical range in Central America, signaling a population collapse of a key species in the region, according to a study published recently in the journal Biological Conservation. The research was conducted by a team of 50 scientists from 30 organizations including Washington State University, the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and El Colegio de Frontera Sur. A pig-like animal that is an important food source for large animal predators and humans alike, the white-lipped peccary (Tayassu pecari) also plays a critical ecological role by dispersing seeds and creating water holes that benefit other animals. The study found that current IUCN estimates underestimated the population decline. The study results are a 63% drop from the current IUCN range estimates for the region.

Craving Warmth? Book a Flight to One of These Hotspots
Land Some of the Caribbean’s Most Evasive Fish in Belize: The small fishing town of Punta Gorda in southern Belize offers some of the most elusive catches on a fly. At the edge of Port Honduras Marine Reserve, the area’s flats have a thriving population of permit, as well as big schools of bonefish and tarpon. Better yet, Punta Gorda, a 50-minute turboprop flight south from Belize City, still feels undiscovered. For more than 15 years, the Garbutt brothers—Dennis, Eworth, Oliver, and Scully—have been slowly putting the town on the map. Former commercial fishermen, the brothers now run a sportfishing charter company, dive outfit, and three-cabin lodge overlooking Joe Taylor Creek, from which their boats depart (from $1,340 for three nights).

Videos

February 5, 2020

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Specials and Events

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

Palapa Bar and Grill hosts final Jerry Jeff Walker concert in Belize
After more than 20 years in San Pedro, renowned musician and icon, Jerry Jeff Walker played his final concert at Palapa Bar and Grill on Friday, January 31st. Palapa closed its doors at 7pm for the private concert, which ended promptly at 9pm. The space was packed with excited fans who enjoyed every moment of Walker’s performance. He gave a charming and intimate performance, cracking jokes with the audience and encouraging them to sing along and dance. He played through his classics and even a few covers to the eager crowd.

Ambergris Today

PIC OF THE WEEK - How About That Sunset! WOW!
Do you want to be like Melissa Raskin? There is only one way to enjoy a sunset like this - COME TO BELIZE! She shares with us a gorgeous sunset captured during her visit to San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. We envy her (in a good day), eventhough we live here. LOL!

Belize Issues Travel Advisory To Residents
The Ministry of Health continues to closely monitor the evolving novel Coronavirus (2019-nCov) outbreak, particularly with the changing dynamics of the infection. The public is thus reminded that information in reference to this can change and any such change for the Belize context would be communicated through the official channels of communication of the Ministry of Health.

Various Belizean Sources

Mr. Omar Mitchell sworn in as Contractor General
It has been announced from Belize House that His Excellency, Sir Colville Young, Governor General of Belize swore in Mr. Omar Mitchell, as Contractor General for a period of three years.

Ministry of Works Embarks on Climate Vulnerability Reduction Program
The Government of Belize, through the Ministry of Works, and in partnership with the Inter-American Development Bank has embarked on the Climate Vulnerability Reduction Program (BL-L1028). The main objective is to reduce climate-related vulnerabilities through investment activities in the downtown Belize City area. Belize City often suffers from flooding because of its low elevation and its proximity to the sea, resulting in damage to buildings and human suffering. Flooding worsens during heavy rainfall events such as tropical storms and hurricanes. This program will alleviate the effects of flooding and improve the drainage system between the canals, the Haulover Creek, Caribbean Sea and feeder drains.

Belize Cancer Society - San Ignacio Branch Unicomer Blood Drive
The Unicomer Blood Drive is happening this Friday at Courts Belize. From 8:00am to 5:00pm

Please Don't Feed the Crocodiles!
Last night we saved a beautiful dog from being ambushed by a crocodile. After chasing off the croc, I leapt onto shore to find the dog's owner or home, to get him away from the water's edge at least for the night. While Chris sat waiting for me, he looked into the water to find a pile of chicken feet, chicken scraps, and various other meat bones sunken at bottom of the bank next to the road. We nearly witnessed a situation that we use as an example of why feeding is so dangerous.

Belize Hotel Association participated in the 38th edition of the Caribbean Travel Marketplace
The Belize Hotel Association participated in the 38th edition of the Caribbean Travel Marketplace that was held on the island of Bahamas at the Baha Mar’s Grand Hyatt Convention Center on January 22 and 23. Caribbean Travel Marketplace gathers hotel and destination representatives, wholesalers and tour operators, online travel agencies, Meetings, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) planners and members of the media through an eventful program of appointment-based business meetings, allowing for attendees to maximize their stay with a series of slotted business generating opportunities.

BHA Promoting Belize at 2020 Edition of The New York Times Travel Show
The Belize Hotel Association, represented by Vice President Ms. Barbara Hall and Treasurer Rudy Gonzalez, attended the 2020 edition of the New York Times Travel Show, held at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York on January 24, 25, and 26. The New York Times Travel Show attracts more than 35,000 attendees with over 700 exhibitors from more than 175 countries, making it the largest travel trade and consumer show in North America. The show connects hotels, destinations and tourism providers with thousands of qualified, ready-to-book consumers and travel trade/agents.

Ministry of Health Update No. 3 – Novel Coronavirus (2019 – nCoV)
The Ministry of Health today, February 4th, had a national surveillance meeting with all the regional surveillance teams to provide an update on the global and regional situations of the Novel Coronavirus (2019 - nCoV). This information has evolved and is being adapted to guide the response in Belize. Several presentations were done including Preparedness Measures, Screening at Ports of Entry, Lab Screening, and Risk Communication. Regional teams had an opportunity to discuss challenges and gaps in their response plans as well as to establish specific actions and communication channels approved by the National Surveillance Team.

Changes in the Pump Price of Fuel Effective February 5, 2020
The Ministry of Finance announces that on February 5, 2020, the pump price of two fuel products will change. The prices for regular gasoline and kerosene will register decreased as follows: Regular gasoline will decrease by 55 cents from $ 10.28 to $ 9.73 per gallon; Kerosene will decrease by 41 cents from $7.77 to $7.36 per gallon.

Paint N Splash
See you this week at from 2-4pm Thursday to paint “Amongst The Best” .

CommUNITY Yoga * Donation Based
Join your community for yoga Thursday nights to relax and unwind, stretch, move, breathe and find a peaceful state of mind. Use this time to take care of yourself, so that you can better take care of others in your life. Show up, slow down and feel good in your body, mind and soul. This all-levels class is donation based (pay what you can) and open to ALL, from beginner to experienced practitioner! Beginning February 13, CommUNITY Yoga will be held every Thursday night from 6:00-7:00 p.m. at Hope Haven Children's Home and Community Center.

Football Action - Ricalde Stadium - Sunday, February 9th
All day event - The Corozal Football Association, The Football Federation of Belize and Club Leones Negros de Chetumal invites you to a day full of football. Come and witness International friendly games starting at 9:00 am sharp at the Ricalde Stadium, this Sunday, February 9th, 2020. Entrance: $5.00 Support our friendly relationship with Club Leones Negros de Chetumal.

Corozal Basketball Association - This Thursday matchups

Year for Love
The Fountain of Youth Foundation is teaming up with Project XYZ Entertainment to have a fundraising event at the CAYO Welcome Center on Valentine's night. The fun starts at 6:00pm.

Very successful clean-up campaign in Santa Familia
We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Santa Familia Cadets that came out this past Sunday for a clean up campaign ! We want to big up our Police officer Rudy Melendez, Lovinia Humes,Karen Humes and Dalia Heaton for joining us as well! You guys did a great job!

National Spanish Spelling Bee
The 1st National Spanish Spelling Bee is coming to Sacred Heart College on Friday the 21st.

Channel 7

Anticlimax In Utah; No Lev Dermen
Belizeans have been waiting to hear what explosive details will come out of a Salt Lake City courtroom about a UDP minister, but, it didn't happen today. Jacob Kingston - who allegedly exchanged text messages with National Security Minister John Saldivar on behalf of Lev Dermen - did not take the stand today. The day was spent with other witnesses, including a video-taped deposition from an Irish oil and gas trader. Not exactly exciting stuff, and there was no mention of Belize or any Belizean personalities.

Dermen Damocles Sword Is Damaging The UDP
So, with Kingston's testimony still pending, the political anxiety over this big reveal continues to build, and, for the UDP, the timing couldn't be worse. Just as the Dermen payoff scandal is about to erupt, the UDP is preparing to bust open the biggest political pinata in its 47 year history. We're talking about the party's first ever leadership convention which takes place on Sunday. And, today, the media caught up with aspirant for leader, Patrick Faber at the ITVET building. He said the Dermen Damocles sword is damaging his party's political prospects:

Faber Throws Shade On Colleagues Who Saw A Diplomat In Dermen
And while Faber is careful not to try and tie any of his cabinet colleagues directly to Dermen, he makes it clear that he is not the guy who recommended him for any type of diplomatic post. The media asked today what any Cabinet member could have seen in the Armenian investor to nominate him as an honorary consul: Reporter: "What did your government see in Lev Dermen, what would he have been able to offer your government that your government felt that he could have been given a diplomatic position in the United States?"

Ministry and BNTU Work Out Differences At Marathon Meeting
We'll have more political talk with Faber later, but first to the news that affects everyone with a child in school. Today's opportunity to speak with the Deputy Prime Minister came after an extended 5-hour meeting that he and other senior staffers of the Ministry of Education held with the Belize National Teachers Union. As we showed you yesterday, the union was very close to taking industrial action against the Ministry. That's because they strongly disagreed with several amendments that the Ministry wanted to make to the education rules.

The Union's Take
So, since the Deputy Prime Minister thinks it went well, we wondered what the BNTU's takeaway from the meeting was. When they exited the meeting, we asked them about Faber's assertions that a breakthrough had occurred, and here's how the President SENATOR Elena Smith answered that one: Elena Smith, National President, B.N.T.U.: "Well indeed we did make some progress on some of the matters that we raised and there are other matters that we need to work together to fully ventilate those and come to agreement on those areas."

Meighan Brothers TOP Jail For Gang Membership
Tonight, some of the city's most well known street figures are in jail. They are the Meighan brothers, 27 year old Ellis, 26 year old Tyrone, and 23 year old Shaquile. All three were taken to court today and charged with "being the member of a gang", namely the "Banak Street Clique" and the Ghost Town Crips. They all pleaded not guilty, but were remanded to prison because of the nature of the offence.

Arrests For Concepcion Killings
Last night we told you about the northern village of Concepcion's tragic and brutal weekend, two men in their 30's fatally stabbed in unrelated incidents. Tonight, we can confirm that two men have been charged with the Concepcion village murders. 35-year-old Diego Correa of Libertad Village for the murder of Juan David Mendez, and 20-year-old Jesus Monteroso of Paraiso Village for the murder of Daniel Cano.

Caribbean Free Of Coronavirus
Tonight we can report that the Central American and Caribbean regions have no case of novel Coronavirus. That said, the death toll in the global health emergency continues to rise with the second confirmed fatality, outside of mainland China, confirmed yesterday in Hong Kong. The Ministry of Health, in an effort to guide Belize's national response, had a surveillance meeting with all the regional surveillance teams to provide an update on the global and regional situations. Officials are also actively following up on all rumoured cases including the two recent cases in Corozal that came back negative for the Novel Coronavirus.

Simplex Will Sue PSU, Here's Why
As we told you last night, The Public Service Union has taken the fight for their Hilltop Headquarters to the Supreme Court in front of Justice Courtney Abel. But, their suit suffered an early setback when one of the key defendants, Simplex Design got the judge to agree that the matter against them should be struck out. That's key, because Simplex has the title for the Hilltop Property. Today, Simplex's attorney Steve Perera discussed the significance of his client being struck out, and his pending countersuit against the PSU:

Andre's Appeal Pending
We also asked Perera about his client Andre Vega. In July of 2019 Justice Abel ordered the former land minster Gaspar Vega's son to pay the government 400 thousand dollars - that's how much he had been compensated for land he bought in a dubious transaction. In that case, the Justice Courtney Abel said, quote, "This court has come to the conclusion that Andre Vega has been unduly enriched by receiving the $400,000 from the Government, and that this enrichment was gained at the Government's expense." He ruled that Vega must return the entire sum back to the Government of Belize. But, Vega hasn't paid. Today, his attorney said he's waiting on the appeal:

Faber Confident About Convention
And, going back now to politics, Patrick Faber and John Saldivar only have four more days to campaign before the big leadership convention. And today, Faber lost almost an entire day negotiating a truce with the teachers union. After that 5 hour session, he told the press he's cool about the current status of his campaign: Hon. Patrick Faber, UDP Deputy Part Leader: "I'm very comfortable at where we are now. I have managed to meet those delegates who, I believe, are going to support me and in fact some of those who are not..."

Faber: Shyne Who?
And while the UDP is trying to publicly de-escalate tensions - Faber went at it last week, by making a post which seemed to be directed at Shyne Barrow. Faber's post was against the Associated Belize Press Facebook page which is a UDP political smut page masquerading as a media outlet.

Faber Humble About Past Failings
And while he played it off today, one of the criticisms that Shyne Barrow has publicly made against Patrick Faber is that he is petty and vindictive. That's what his detractors in the UDP say behind his back. So, what does Faber think about those labels of his leadership style and personality? The media challenged him on that one. Here's his response: Reporter: "The biggest criticism from your political detractor is that you're petty and vindictive. I think anyone who has come out against Patrick Faber in writing or orally has said that. How do you respond to persons who describe either your leadership style or your personality as such?"

BNTU Says Slow Down On Equal Opportunities Bill
And turning quickly back to the news on the BNTU, yesterday they sent out a press release expressing concern about the tone of the conversations over the National AIDS Commission's Equal Opportunities Bill. Their press release says quote, "The Union is gravely concerned over the fast pace at which presentations and consultations have been carried out regarding the recently released draft of the Equal Opportunities Bill.

A Rare BTV "Big Up"� For The Coast Guard
On Friday we told you that the Coast Guard had made a major bust of illegal gillnets and fisheries products. Three fishermen, one Belizean and two Guatemalans were found with the assortment of nets and marine products valued in excess of $40,000. Well, tonight the Coast Guard is receiving a rare round of congratulations from the Belize Territorial Volunteers with a release today that stated: "W? at the BTV salute the ??l?z? ????t Guard f?r ? ??b w?ll d?n?."

Cleaning City Canals For weather Readiness
Belize City's very silted canals are getting a clean. It's a Climate Vulnerability Reduction Program, spearheaded by the Ministry of Works, in partnership with the IDB. This program is designed to alleviate the effects of flooding and improve the drainage system between the canals, the Haulover Creek, Caribbean Sea and feeder drains.

Guinea Grass Contraband
Orange Walk Cops made a sizable contraband bust on Friday. It happened in an area north of Guinea Grass Village where a white Toyota Four Runner loaded with contraband goods was seen abandoned. Police and Customs opened by the vehicle and towed it away to be secured in Orange Walk Town. The abandoned vehicle's insurance sticker is jointly registered to two Guinea Grass residents. It was choc full of contraband sodas, beers and beans.

The Region's Best Youth Table Tennis Players Converge on Belize
The Belize Table Tennis Association is currently hosting the Central American U15 and U18 Table Tennis Central American Championships at the Belize Mexico Arena near Marion Jones. Our news team was there for day one and we spoke to the young competitors.: The competition started today at 9:00 at the Mexico Sports Center with the team competition in all categories. We spoke to the event Organizer Arturo Arturo "Tux" Vasquez and he told us that the sport is eager to push its youngest players.

Belizean Art Through Cuban Eyes
On Friday night Belize and Cuba celebrated 25 years of diplomatic relations. The Museum of Belize commemorated that bond by exhibiting the works of the artists known as Lito and Falco, creative comrades born of both nations. Cherisse Halsall spent her Friday night checking out the exhibition. Here's her story. Last Friday a duo of artists, Cuban and Belizean came together to celebrate 25 years of relations between the two countries. And what they brought the Belizean audience was a series of symbols that transcend the visual and delve into the psychological. We spoke to the Cuban, Illustrator Alejandro "Falco" Chan, and he told us that images can often convey as much meaning as words.

Belize and Cuba, 25 Years of Solidarity
And while Belize and Cuba celebrated their cultural ties, one speech from the exhibitions opening - ceremony highlighted the Cuban influence on humanitarian development in Belize. As an artists who has exhibited in Cuba many times, Yasser Musa put the 25 years in historical and cultural context: Yasser Musa, Solidarity Movement: "Tonight I am in a reflective mood. I am thinking about that powerful statement Che Guevara made in defence of Belize's right to self-determination, he spoke about this in 1961 years before we were even a self-governing society..."

New Contractor General Sworn In
The important office of Contractor General has been long vacant and the post long empty, but, finally, today the new Contractor General was sworn in by the Governor General. He is Engineer Omar Mitchell whose appointment was supported by both sides of the parliament.

Regular Fuel Price Goes Down
If you're buying regular fuel or kerosene wait until after midnight. That's because prices are going down quite a bit. Regular gasoline will decrease by 55 cents from $ 10.28 to $ 9.73 per gallon; Kerosene will decrease by 41 cents from $7.77 to $7.36 per gallon. The prices for premium gasoline and diesel will remain unchanged at $10.99 and $10.29 per gallon.

Launch of Second Road Safety Project
This afternoon the Ministers of Transport and Economic Development along with their respective C.E.O's received six fully equipped highway patrol vehicles from Belize Diesel and Equipment Co. Ltd. The vehicles were purchased as a part of the Second Road Safety Project and upon receiving them, Minister Castro, who recently had the first-hand experience with a road traffic accident, said that he, unlike the driver in front of him, never took his eyes off the road.

Tropic's New Aircraft For Regional Routes
Tropic Air has stepped up the airline game, big time. On Friday, it received its first Beech 1900D aircraft. The, twin engine, 19 passenger, will be a regional airliner with a pressurized, spacious stand-up cabin. The aircraft can fly from Belize City to Cancun in as little as 50 minutes and has a crew of two. A similar flight in a Cessna Caravan takes an hour longer.

A Jaguar In The Not So Wild
And we leave you tonight with this jaguar that was spotted in the wild - or not so wild - on the edges of Bacab Eco Park in the Belize District. It was just sauntering around and seemed of no danger to anyone.

Channel 5

M.O.E. Meets with B.N.T.U. and Progress is Recorded
Tonight, there is a sigh of relief among the Ministry of Education and the Belize National Teachers Unions and temperatures are cooling down.  Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Faber took a [...]

DPM Faber Optimistic about Way Forward with Teachers Union
Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Faber who was flanked by Chief Education Officer, Doctor Carol Babb, at the meeting also felt confident that the meeting had a positive outcome, despite not [...]

The Latest on Lev Dermen and Miami Meetings involving “Ex President of Belize”
News Five’s Hipolito Novelo is in Salt Lake City, Utah covering the trial of accused fraudster Lev Dermen.  It’s a huge tax fraud case involving over a billion dollars, involving [...]

Faber Takes on Lev Dermen Allegations
As the Lev Dermen trial continues in Utah, on the home front, the effects of the scandal is rippling across all strata of Belizean society, rocking the United Democratic Party [...]

Scandal after Scandal Rocks U.D.P. Administration
The scandal-ridden U.D.P. is gearing up for a leadership convention this weekend after which it will also prepare for general elections.  Amid the Lev Dermen scandal, as well as the [...]

Changes at the Gas Pumps
At midnight, there will be some relief for consumers as the prices for regular gasoline and kerosene will go down at the pumps. Regular gasoline will decrease by fifty-five cents [...]

T-Minus Five Days to U.D.P. Leadership Convention
The countdown to the February ninth U.D.P. leadership convention is down to the last five days and Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Faber is facing political opponent John Saldivar in a [...]

U.D.P. Delegates Share Concerns with DPM Faber
Faber’s vote seeking activities commenced with the launch of his leadership campaign in September of last year.  Since then he has been canvassing delegates in all six districts and was [...]

Faber Says He’s Passionate, Not Petty and Vindictive
His many detractors describe him as petty and vindictive, personal and professional attributes that don’t cast Patrick Faber in the best light.  While those criticisms are widely held, some published [...]

Faber is Says Accountability is Necessary for UNCAC Implementation
The National Trade Union Congress of Belize has given government an ultimatum by when it has to show progress in the implementation of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, UNCAC.  [...]

Paraiso Resident Charged for Murder of Daniel Cano
Two men have been charged for separate murders that occurred in the north over the weekend. Police have charged Jesus Monteroso for the murder of Daniel Cano. The sales clerk [...]

Another Murder Suspect is Charged
Corozal police have charged a Libertad resident for the stabbing murder of Juan David Mendez. The accused is Diego Onorio Correa, who is believed to have stabbed Mendez once to [...]

Supreme Court Strikes Out P.S.U. Land Case Against Simplex Design Limited
Justice Courtney Abel has made a determination in a case brought by the Public Service against the Belmopan City Council, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Simplex Design Limited.  In [...]

P.S.U.’s Eviction from Hilltop Property Inevitable?
According to Estevan Perera, the Registered Land Act gives two opportunities for the court to set aside a land title—when the title was issued in error or if it was [...]

What is Simplex’s Plans for the Prime Belmopan Property?
It is widely speculated that Simplex Design Limited, which is registered to an address on Santa Rita Road in Corozal Town, is a shell company with no true intention to [...]

Land Compensation Case Against Andre Vega Goes to the Court of Appeal
Estevan Perera is also the attorney for Andre Vega, son of former Lands Minister Gaspar Vega. In July of 2019, the government took the younger Vega to court to recover [...]

M.O.H. Hosts Meeting with Local Partners to Talk Coronavirus Plans
The Ministry of Health continues to prepare and put in prevention or containment plans in the event that the corona virus reaches Belize. The number of deaths has increased and [...]

M.O.H. Advises Against Non-Urgent Travel; No Case of Virus in Belize.
Over the weekend, the Ministry of Health issued a release to advise against travel to countries where the novel virus is present.  They recommended that those who do not have [...]

Omar Mitchell is Sworn in as the New Contractor General
A new Contractor General finally took the oath today at Belize House in Belmopan. He is Omar Mitchell, an engineer by profession.  The appointment is for a period of three [...]

Road Safety Project II Donates 6 Highway Patrol Trucks
Last year, Belize received funds through a loan from the Caribbean Development Bank to execute the Second Road Safety Project.  You’ll recall that from 2013 to 2018, the first road [...]

Cuba Celebrates the Historic Anniversaries of Revolution and Relations with Belize
The Embassy of Cuba in Belize celebrated two historic events over the weekend: the anniversary of its revolution and the anniversary of relations with Belize. Education and health have been [...]

Changes at the Gas Pumps
At midnight, there will be some relief for consumers as the prices for regular gasoline and kerosene will go down at the pumps. Regular gasoline will decrease by fifty-five cents to sell at nine dollars and seventy three cents per gallon. Kerosene will also go down by forty-one cents and will retail at seven dollars and thirty-six cents per gallon. The prices for premium gasoline and diesel will remain at ten dollars ninety-nine cents and ten dollars twenty nine cents.

Amandala

NTUCB to GOB: implement UNCAC, or else …!
In December 2016, Belize signed the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) against a backdrop of pressure from the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) following their 11-day strike. That, however, was all that the Belize Government of Prime Minister Dean Barrow did, because there has not been any major push by the government to implement the UNCAC, as Belize government leaders continue in their embrace of corruption. That embrace of corruption may soon come to an end, because government will have to push through with the implementation of UNCAC, or it will face the wrath of the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB), which issued an ultimatum today at a press briefing.

PM Barrow spent $1.3 billion unconstitutionally
After some delays in delivering his judgment, Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin ruled this morning that the United Democratic Party government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Dean Barrow, has spent $1.3 billion unconstitutionally. PM Barrow, as Minister of Finance, spent the money without parliamentary approval, and that was in violation of the Constitution of Belize and also in violation of the Finance and Audit Reform Act, the Chief Justice said in his ruling. The claimants in the civil lawsuit were two Opposition People’s United Party parliamentarians.

Police charge Adrian Swasey, 24, with murder
Kajoan Tony Roches, 23, a laborer of Mahogany Street, was killed at about 8:30 last night, Thursday, on Ebony Street. Police said that Roches was visiting a friend of his and they were standing in front of his friend’s yard on Ebony Street, near its junction with Magazine Road, when two men who were traveling on a motorcycle from Central American Boulevard to Magazine Road on Ebony Street, stopped a short distance away after passing Roches and his friend, and one of the two men came off the motorcycle and fired a barrage of shots at Roches, who was hit and died almost immediately.

Coronavirus deaths in China surpass that of SARS – 426
In 2003, the outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) claimed 349 lives in China. Last Friday, the Belize Ministry of Health issued a travel advisory for Chinese-Belizeans. “If you are in Belize, don’t travel to China, and if you are in China, don’t travel to Belize. If you travel to Belize, you will most likely be quarantined,” said a Ministry of Health press release. So far, no cases of coronavirus have been discovered in Belize.

Editorial: A coronavirus to worry about; a convention to watch
From the Hondo to the Sarstoon and from Half Moon Caye to Benque Viejo del Carmen, the two gripping stories right now are a coronavirus that is spreading in China and the upcoming United Democratic Party (UDP) convention to determine who will lead that party into the next general elections. Belizeans have not forgotten the painful, unending violence in our society, or the very difficult economic times, but just for a moment those have been pushed off center stage. There’s great concern in the world and in our country that the new strain of virus that recently appeared in Wuhan, China could blow up into a pandemic. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the virus a global health emergency, mainly due to fear that the disease could overwhelm countries that don’t have very effective health services.

Khris Gentle, 26, missing at sea, found floating near Bannister Caye
Khris Gentle, 26, a fisherman of Cemetery Lane, on Tuesday, January 28, went to Austin Bogue Caye to fish with a friend of his. That friend returned to the city on Wednesday and told Gentle’s family that he had left Gentle fishing at the caye. When he returned on Thursday, January 30, however, Gentle was nowhere to be found. Police and the Coast Guard were called and the search began to find Gentle.

One man convicted for hospital attack; hung jury for the other
A jury of 5 women and 4 men deliberated for over 4 hours today in the court of Justice Colin Williams before it found John Burke, 35, guilty of dangerous harm. The jury’s verdict was unanimous. But in the case of Burke’s co-accused, Kareem Eagan, 37, the jury was unable to reach a verdict. Justice Williams deferred sentencing for Burke until Thursday, February 13.

Shane Bennett, 38, charged with the murder of Anthony Parks, 37
Shane Bennett, 38, who was on the run from police for allegedly shooting Anthony Parks, 37, a laborer of Independence, multiple times, was captured and charged with attempted murder. The shooting took place at about 6:30 Wednesday morning, January 22, at Parks’ house in Independence. Anthony Parks was admitted to the Southern Regional Hospital in a critical condition, but on Saturday, he died at the hospital.

Jordiel Petillo, 23, charged for firing at cop on Mapp Street
At about 1:30 Wednesday afternoon last week, Constable William Woodeye was riding his police-issued motorcycle from Freetown Road to North Front Street, and was on Mapp Street, when a vehicle overtook him and someone from inside the vehicle fired at him, causing Woodeye to lose control of his motorcycle and slam into the back of a parked vehicle that was on the right side of the street. Woodeye fell off his motorcycle and onto the pavement. As a result, he suffered minor injuries and complained of pain in the chest and shoulder.

Minister of National Security, John Saldivar, was a no-show at BDF passing-out parade
Today was a big day for the Belize Defence Force (BDF), which is celebrating its 42nd anniversary and is also passing out Recruit Intake #65, at Price Barracks, the headquarters of the force. Price Barracks was the center of a flurry of activities as the BDF men and women made preparations for the big event. A large tent was set up facing the Sir Colville Young Parade Square, on which the BDF band and soldiers decked out in uniform and holding semi-automatic rifles were standing at ease.

Defenders and Tiger Sharks tied for top spot in NEBL standings
The National Elite Basketball League (NEBL) bounced into Week 3 of its 2020 season this past weekend with all 8 teams playing; every weekend, there are 4 games on the schedule. All scores, standings, schedule and player stats can be found on our website at neblbelize.com. All games can also be followed live online on our webpage by clicking on the game at the top of the website. When fans click on the game, the live stats for that game will be accessible.

Table Tennis – U15-U18 Central American Championships begin tomorrow, Tuesday, at Mexico Sports Center
The U-15-U18 Central American Table Tennis Championships are set to kick-off tomorrow, Tuesday, February 4, at the Mexico Sports Center at 9:00 a.m. with the Team Competition in all categories. There is no cover charge for these games, and we invite everyone to attend and support this event.

C-Ray D. Banner Saturday Race results – January 25, 2020
The prizes for this week’s Saturday Race were spiked, thanks to our generous sponsors – David Banner, Sr., Freetown Drug Store, John Olivera and Cattouse Trucking. As we do every Saturday, the cyclists congregated in front of Data Pro on the Boom-Hattieville Road. Approximately 32 cyclists in various categories took the start line at 6:30 a.m. Race 1 saw the Elites, Women, Juniors, 30+, 40+ and 50+ categories race towards the Hattieville roundabout and then down the George Price Highway to the Mile-8 roundabout and return to Data Pro, for a total of 38 miles.

From The Publisher
If you would like to refresh your memory, beloved, or if you are just a callow youth who knows not of our ancestors’ history on the slavery voyages centuries ago, Steven Spielberg’s movie, Amistad, does a good job of reminding us of exactly what our African ancestors experienced/suffered on the way from freedom in West Africa, through kidnapping, jungle trekking with chains bolted around our necks, “warehousing” in inhumane coastal forts, transportation across the Atlantic Ocean naked and shackled upon and next to each other in the dark holds of sailing ships, to the perhaps ultimate indignity of the auction block in various parts of the Americas.

GoB taking millions to push foreign agenda
In a recent column, I said my opinion was that this Equal Opportunities Bill should have been done piecemeal, and this opinion of mine grows stronger, the more I think on it. The people behind the Bill must think very highly of themselves to believe that you can create a Bill to cover so many areas in a short time. Hmm, we have to consider that the architects here might welcome scattering our energies because that’s the best scene to sneak in other agendas. The teachers of Belize will not be moved, and we, all of us, should not allow ourselves to agree to anything without giving it a good going over.

An “unwanted” pregnancy: abortion is proposed
Jerome had confided to Mama afterwards that on Holy Thursday night when he had been eating some fruit at the bar of the hotel at which he had been staying along with the Havers family, his eye had strayed over the room and noticed Nurse Duncan sitting at a table nearby, her back towards him. Since she worked in his department, he had decided to greet her on his way out to arrange rental of a speedboat to travel in our direction the next day; but, as he was about to do so, she had been joined by Dr. Francis coming in from the outside. Jerome had put the meeting off for another time and circled the dining room to an exit.

WHO outlines steps to save 7 million lives from cancer
The World Health Organization (WHO) today spells out the need to step up cancer services in low and middle-income countries. WHO warns that, if current trends continue, the world will see a 60% increase in cancer cases over the next two decades. The greatest increase (an estimated 81%) in new cases will occur in low- and middle-income countries, where survival rates are currently lowest. This is largely because these countries have focused limited health resources on combating infectious diseases and improving maternal and child health, while health systems do not havea the capacity to adequately prevent, screen, diagnose and treat people with cancer.

The Reporter

3 Brothers Remanded To Prison For Being In A Gang
Police have arrested and charged brothers Ellis Meighan, 27, Shaquille Meighan, 23 and Tyrone Meighan, 26 for Being the Member of a Gang.

2 Men Arrested/Charged For Separate Murders In Concepcion
esus Monteroso, 20, Belizean of Paraiso Village, Corozal District has been charged for the murder of Daniel Cano, 34, which occurred after midnight on Sunday in Concepcion, Corozal.

LOVE FM

BNTU and MOE come to terms on amendments
The tensions between the Ministry of Education and the Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU) have eased somewhat following a meeting earlier today. The two parties were able to compromise on some of the issues that led the union threatening to strike.

Patrick Faber is confident recent scandals wont affect the party
We are five days away from the United Democratic Party’s convention. Those vying for the party leader position are Minister of National Security, John Saldivar and Deputy Prime Minister, Patrick Faber. As it stands now there are allegations of corruption cast against Saldivar and some are saying that Faber too was involved. Faber responded today that he has never received any campaign funding from any associate and is also a supporter of Campaign Financing Legislation.

World Cancer Day 2020
World Cancer Day is being observed today. It is an international day marked to raise awareness of cancer and to encourage preventative measures, early detection, and treatment.

Family claims police brutality
A man is claiming police harassment, and while that is not exactly something new, this story comes with a twist – his girlfriend and one-year-old son were detained for almost 24 hours. Randy O’Neal told us today that he has been battling this harassment for years, but he got enough of it after his family was taken in, reportedly for no reason.

Pastors in the South oppose EOB Bill
Opposition on the Equal Opportunities Bill continues in various parts of the country. The most recent opposition comes from the south as a group of church pastors who held a press conference attended by over eighty pastors from twenty denominations in the south. Toledo Correspondent Paul Mahung has the story.

Simplex wants PSU to vacate Hilltop
Simplex Design Company Limited are the legal owners of the Hilltop property in Belmopan and they are seeking to get the Public Service Union to vacate the land. The Hilltop land has housed the union’s headquarters for many years but the Belmopan City Council sold the property to Simplex after the union failed to keep up with their lease.

Patrick Faber speaks politics, corruption, change and the upcoming convention
Deputy Prime Minister, Patrick Faber has been on a countrywide tour in recent months as he prepares for the upcoming UDP leadership convention. Faber made an appearance on The Morning Show today where he spoke on several topics ranging from politics to issues of national concern.

Two Indian medical schools delisted in Belize
There are reports that two medical schools in Belize are being delisted due to several irregularities including lack of staff and facilities including a proper laboratory. These two schools are Columbus Central University based in Ladyville and Washington University of Health Sciences in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. In speaking with the Minister of Education, Patrick Faber, he indicated that he has heard these rumors but no official report has been made.

Man pleads guilty for stabbing in the South
Also, in the south, a man pleaded guilty for a stabbing incident that occurred in March 2017 in rural Stann Creek. Here is Harry Arzu with that report.

Teachers and Education Ministry reach compromise on hot button issues
There has been another issue that the BNTU had brought up last week and that has to do with the CPD hours or the continued professional development Hours. These hours have to do with extra investments that teachers are required to take in developing their skills and specialty.

Breaking Belize News

Tensions ease between Education Ministry and Teachers’ Union; “progress” on issues reported
On Monday, president of the Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU), Senator Elena Smith, was representing […]

National Surveillance Team gives update on novel coronavirus
The Ministry of Health today hosted a national surveillance meeting with all the regional surveillance teams […]

Medical schools downplay Medical Council de-listing
The tandem of Columbus Central University and Washington University of Health Sciences insist their recent delisting […]

Indian Embassy in Mexico confirms investigation of delisted medical schools
Journalist-activist, Geovannie Brackett, did not take kindly to being accused, without evidence, of masterminding along with […]

Ministry of Works embarks on Climate Vulnerability Reduction Program
The Government of Belize, through the Ministry of Works, and in partnership with the Inter-American Development […]

Trade Union Congress moves to pressure Government on anti-corruption measures
At its recent annual general meeting, the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) passed four […]

Text messages with Belize Minister to be presented as Jacob Kingston testimony begins
Reports from Salt Lake City, Utah, say the man who directly fingered accused Lev Dermen […]

Prices of regular gas and kerosene get decrease
The Ministry of Finance announced that effective midnight, the pump price of two fuel products […]

Death Announcement: Nelly Beatriz Hegar nee Espat
It is with great sorrow that we announce the untimely passing of our Beloved Mother, Nelly Beatriz Hegar […]

Libertad man charged for Corozal stabbing murder
Police have formally charged one man for the stabbing death of Juan Mendez, which occurred […]

Jermaine Crawford is BBN’s first Man of Steel
Last year’s celebration of International Men’s Day brought with it the revelation that many Belizeans […]

Police find crack cocaine in San Pedro
Authorities conducting patrol around noon yesterday searched an empty lot in the San Pedrito area […]

Patrick Faber: “All will be well in the UDP”
The United Democratic Party (UDP) is preparing to host its national convention on Sunday, February […]

Paraiso resident charged for murder
Paraiso resident, Jesus Monteroso, was charged today for the crime of murder. Monteroso is being […]

Territorial Volunteers thank Belize Coast Guard for efforts in illegal gillnet bust
Today, the Belize Territorial Volunteers (BTV) issued a statement thanking the Belize Coast Guard (BCG) […]

Caye Caulker resident charged for shooting at police officer
Authorities have charged Joleel Petillo, 24, a Caye Caulker resident for shooting at a police […]

Motorcycle and vehicle collide on Coney Drive in Belize City
Medical personnel are currently on the scene of a traffic accident that took place in […]

Student attacks teacher with pencil in Trial Farm
Education authorities in Orange Walk are addressing an issue that occurred last week at the […]

Authorities say Khris Gentle drowned
Authorities have determined that Khris Gentle, the Belizean fisherman found dead over the weekend, drowned. […]

Police investigate attempted robbery at Reimers Feed Mill in Belmopan
Authorities are investigating an attempted robbery that occurred on Sunday at Reimers Feed Mill in […]

Found bullets cost City man four months jail
Ronald Armstrong, 20, one of two persons charged with possession of ammunition without a gun license, […]

One of two convicted for hospital attack
There was a vicious beating dished out to Mario Zelaya at the Karl Heusner Memorial […]

Blogs

Top 5 Best Gift Items from Belize
Longing to take back a piece of Belize with you to your loved ones, but don’t know what? These are my personaltop 5 best gift items from Belizethat will be sure to leave a lasting impression. Adorn your feelings with the best local gifts Belize has to offer. Whether you’re into fashion, food or natural products, these gift items are sure to melt or ignite anyone’s heart.

International Sources

Go to Belize for the beaches but stay for the culture, nature, and history
BELIZE IS WELL known for its lush jungles, crystal-clear Caribbean water, and pale-sand beaches. But travelers are now beginning to discover the country’s many other charms, as well. Belize beckons with its rich blend of cultures, caves, wildlife sanctuaries, fascinating Mayan relics, and incredible historical destinations. You just have to make the effort to get to them. Even then, the effort isn’t too great as most places you’ll want to visit are accessible by bus within a couple of hours.

Have wildlife documentaries spoilt the safari experience?
In a world where TV makes animal A-listers available for our viewing pleasure, reality can disappoint – so how do we manage expectations? Oh please. Not another hyena! Briefly, the cluster of vehicles raised your hopes. But now, as your safari guide pulls over to watch the scavenger tucking into an impala carcass, you lower your camera and sink back down with a sigh. Disappointed? Surely you should be delighted. Here you are in the African bush, with this animal so close you can count its whiskers. It’s a thrilling moment, a privilege. And yet, over the noisy crunching of bone, you’re silently cursing your misfortune.

TEENS: Discovering the joys of traveling
Traveling is something that I have always found fascinating but never thought was possible. That was until June 2019, when I and a group of others went to Belize for an educational trip. Before that, I had never been out of the country, let alone out of the Midwest. The trip I went on gave me so many new experiences, like flying on an airplane and snorkeling. A few years ago, the idea of traveling seemed unrealistic to me and something that would never be possible until the opportunity showed up at my school.

British High Commission Belmopan seeks 2020/2021 project proposal bids
The British High Commission (BHC) in Belmopan is now accepting project proposals for the 2020/2021 financial year (April 2020-March 2021). This year the BHC is seeking to support projects in Belize that focus on the following themes: Environment / Conservation - relating to climate change, eliminating single use plastics, maritime, tackling illegal wildlife Human rights - in particular to promoting girls’ education, LGBT rights, preventing sexual violence, reducing Modern Slavery, Freedom of Religion or Belief Security & Justice - in particular strengthening the capacity of the criminal justice system and law enforcement, improved access to justice and protection of rights for all citizens Economic and sustainable growth – relating to better business environments in key sectors

‘Colonial legacy’ of British army lives on in Belize
THE British army is using one of the world’s most biodiverse countries as a military training ground and paying nothing for it, it was revealed yesterday. An audit by the Ministry of Defence (MoD), unearthed by Declassified UK, shows that soldiers are free to rehearse jungle warfare across a sixth of Belize, including in protected forests. The Central American country, roughly the size of Wales, is home to critically endangered species and ancient Mayan ruins. Shockingly, the British army does not pay a penny to the former colony for use of the land.

Videos

February 4, 2020

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, 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

Prime Minister Barrow Receives OAS Secretary-General
This morning the Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow and Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon. Wilfred Elrington received H.E. Luis Almagro, Secretary-General of the Organization of American States (OAS), at the Laing Building in Belize City. The Prime Minister and the Secretary-General took the opportunity to discuss hemispheric and regional issues as well as bilateral relations with Guatemala. The Secretary-General presented an update of the work of the OAS Office in the Adjacency Zone especially in the areas of promoting a culture of peace and conducting verifications.

Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Belize and Rwanda
he Governments of Belize and the Republic of Rwanda have established diplomatic relations at the ambassadorial level. The signing of the joint communique establishing diplomatic relations took place in New York on January 22, 2020. Signing on behalf of the Government of Belize was Her Excellency Lois M. Young, Permanent Representative of Belize to the United Nations.

Ambergris Today

Free Eye Exams By BelizeKids.Org At The Lions Den
BelizeKids.org is a non-profit organization focused on helping kids in Belize. Currently they are only on our beautiful island of Ambergris Caye but plan to expand to help kids throughout the country. Doctors are back on the island and are offering free eye exams in collaboration with the Belize Council for the Visually Impaired (BCVI).

The Destructive Nature Of Gillnets Strikes Again
On Friday, January 31, 2019, the Belize Coast Guard busted three fishermen in the Manatee Bar Mouth area who were in possession of illegal gillnets and fisheries products. These fishermen, one Belizean and two Guatemalans with naturalization documents, were also operating with expired fisherfolk licenses. They were in possession of a variety of nets, three of which exceeded the legal limit of 1,000 feet per net. Also found in their position were 9 barrels and several coolers of varied marine product, including shark meat. The total marine product is estimated to be worth over $40,000.

Tropic Air Accepts Delivery Of A Beech 1900D Aircraft
Tropic Air announces that on Friday, January 31st, it accepted delivery if its first Beech 1900D aircraft. The 1900D is a modern, twin engine, 19 passenger, regional airliner. It arrived at the the Philip Goldson International Airport in Belize City at 4:15pm after a ferry flight from the USA. The airliner is to enter revenue service shortly on Tropic Air's main international routes from Belize City to Cancun, Roatan and Flores. "The 1900D is a world class airliner. It is fast, pressurized, spacious, and has a stand-up cabin with glass cockpit," said John Greif III, President of Tropic Air. "This is a significant investment for Tropic Air, and we are excited to be the first in Belize and in Central America to fly it in passenger service."

Various Belizean Sources

South Ambergris Caye Neighbourhood Watch Meeting
We hope you are enjoying yourselves either on the island or in your other home town. The February general meeting of the members will be held at Someplace South Cafebar this month. Come a little early and enjoy dinner before the meeting.

San Pedro JPs & CSC Meeting
Attention San Pedro Justices of the Peace & Commissioners of the Supreme Court! Our first meeting of the New Year will be on Wednesday, February 5th at 7PM at San Pedro High School in Room 1G. Things to discuss include the AGM, new passport procedures and more. Please make every effort to attend. For more info contact Clive Welsh at 605-6123.

Mr. Gonzalo Valdez Sr. passes away
Mayor Daniel Guerrero, the San Pedro Town Council and Staff would like to extend its sincere condolences to the Valdez friends and family on the passing of Mr. Gonzalo Valdez Sr. We hope his friends and family find the strength in each other to over come this great loss. May his soul rest in peace.

Closure of the Manatee Bridge
The Ministry of Works informs the public that the Manatee Bridge at Mile 15 on the Manatee Road (Coastal Road) is closed to vehicular traffic, effective immediately until February 7th, to enable urgent repairs to be carried out on the bridge. All motorists are advised to use the Hummingbird Highway for access to the southern districts during this period. The Ministry of Works regrets the inconvenience caused by the closure of the bridge.

Partial Remission of LAND TAX ARREARS Programme (2019/2020) Continues

HOBBS BEERS can be purchased at the following quick stop places

Maya Art
Among the Classic Maya (A.D. 250-850), painting was the primary expressive aesthetic medium. Fresco paintings on exterior and interior walls of Maya buildings was very common- the renowned murals of Bonampak (Chiapas, Mexico) are the only large scale survivors of this pan-Maya tradition. Painting on cloth and paper was central to Classic Maya artistic ventures. However, most of this legacy has been lost due to social and natural environmental factors which contributed to its destruction. The primary surviving example of Classic Maya painting is pictorial polychrome pottery; it survived because of its durability and the protection of the tombs it was buried in.

Channel 7

UDP Claims Unity Amidst Contention and Controversy Of Convention
International scandal may be biting at the heels of the UDP's John Saldivar, but, that's not stopping the UDP from going headlong into its February 9th leadership convention.   That's the message coming out of the party's National Party Council meeting on Saturday morning at its national headquarters.  7News was there and here's what the vibe was like: The UDP National Party Council meeting ended at 11:30 - it had lasted about an hour.  The party brass filed out, they seemed amiable - and the mood light, there were no visible or palpable tensions. And the message was unity:

BNTU Won' t Take "Any More Excuses"
And while that fuse is burning for Saldivar in Utah, another is burning in Belize for the other leadership candidate, Patrick Faber.  As we've been reporting - the Teachers Union is not happy with the Ministry of Education for changes it wants to make to the Education Rules.  The Union has already taken a poll of its members asking if they want to take industrial action.  And tomorrow they meet with the Minister of Education.  Today, at a press conference held by the National Trade Union Congress of Belize, we asked what was the result of that poll: Jules Vasquez: "Are you able to say what came out of the poll that the teachers nationally took, the union took on whether it should proceed with industrial action?" bgcolor="#d84f43">