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Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, West Vision (Cayo) and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Rise and Shine Morning Show, and the Dickie Bradley Specials


The San Pedro Sun

Miss Chiquitita 2016-17 is set
The "Miss Chiquitita 2016-2017" pageant, which is San Pedro Preschool's biggest fundraiser, has been scheduled for Saturday, June 4th at the Angel Nu�ez Auditorium. Five primary school beauties will compete in the pageant, in hopes of being crowned by outgoing Miss Chiquitita 2015-2016 Killainie Sosa. This year's participants are 9 year-old Carolina Salinas (sponsored by Touch Management), 10 year-old Sandi Flores (sponsored by Gaby's Construction), 10 year-old Monique Garcia (sponsored by Suya Tours), 10 year-old Lindsey Williams (sponsored by Saga Humane Society), and 10 year-old Evelin Pichola (sponsored by Wild Mango's). Event organizer, Ilna Nu�ez, is more than delightful to participate in this year's pageant once again, and encourages the community to support the cause. The pageant will start at 7PM sharp and the show will be divided into five segments: a dance presentation, swimsuit, career, talent, and evening wear.

Funds raised to assist Nurse Natalie
There is no shortage of helping hands on La Isla Bonita and they were at it again during a coin drive and telethon held to assist Nurse Natalie Hancock Palen on Friday, May 20th. Nurse Palen recently broke her neck and had to have critical surgery in Belize City. Unfortunately, Palen does not have health insurance and her medical bills are extensive. Known throughout Ambergris Caye for delivering over 1,000 babies, Palen has spent countless days and nights assisting townspeople in need. It was time for residents of La Isla Bonita to give back. Palen and her family are very grateful for the community's support. A barbecue and raffle are being planned in the coming weeks, to be held at the Lions Den. If you would like make a contribution to Nurse Palen, you can contact Diana Snyder 635-0270.

San Pedro Town Library hosts fun Movie Night
On Saturday, May 21st, the San Pedro Town Library (SPTL) hosted a fun, outdoor 'Movie Night' at the Esmeralda Park next to the library building. The feature movie of the night was "Epic", an animated adventure comedy film that brought together families. The movie showed on the SPTL's large inflatable screen, and a canvas was placed in front so children who brought their blankets could lie down and really enjoy the experience. The event served as a fundraiser, with snacks and drinks being sold to help raise funds for the upgrade of the library's equipment. "We are in need of two new computers for our circulation desk, and we are also looking to purchase an external hard drive to back up the library's information," said Library Assistant Marlene Coral. On a long-term basis, the library is looking to secure land and building to establish another library to accommodate a larger audience. Since the current library is small, space is needed to appeal and hold more varieties of literature. "Some people come in and think the library is only for children. In reality, we do have an area for adults, but they don't have where to sit because the library is small, so we are looking to expand," said Coral. The SPTL is looking forward to hosting many other movie nights throughout the year.

People's Coalition Committee formed on Ambergris Caye
On Tuesday, May 24th, San Pedro Town joined the other communities around the country as they formed respective People's Coalition Committee (PCC) for their areas. The committee is made up of police, citizens, and members of the different business sector who are committed to come together regularly in order to discuss and solve local issues affecting their area. The PCC also takes on the responsibility to develop better police and community relations, and find ways to work in partnership. The committee comprises of six key members and six additional members who will render support to the organization and its main members. The members of the organization which are to serve for the following two years here in San Pedro are: Chairman- Carol McCann from Sotheby's International Realty, Vice Chairman- Yolanda Parham from The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC), Public Relations- Jorge Aldana SPTCl, Treasurer- Ana Ico from The Palms, Secretary- Dion Vansen from The San Pedro Sun, and Vice Secretary -Sandy Betz-Einsberg from The Belize Red Cross, San Pedro Branch. Also present at the meeting were Mayor Daniel Guerrero and Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation Honourable Manuel Heredia Jr, Officer in Charge of the San Pedro Police Sub-formation Superintendent Sandra Bowden, and Deputy of the Coastal Executive Unit Henry Jemmott, who all form part of the committee as ex-officio members. Members of the PCC will not be doing actual police work. The duties of a member of the committee are to primarily identify, prevent and respond to crime issues. They are to advise the police through recommendations. Members can be helpful through designing and implementing strategies for safer streets, neighborhoods, and communities when dealing with acts of violence. "We recognize that the police cannot do it alone. Arresting people, with nothing more, will not solve these issues; thus we need groups like this in order to work together," said Phillips.

Belize and Guatemala sign declaration of peace
On Thursday, May 19th, Presidents of the Legislative Bodies of Central America and the Caribbean Basin (FOPREL) held an urgent meeting in Managua, Nicaragua. The meeting was to discuss the ongoing Belize-Guatemala territorial dispute, and served to find a diplomatic solution for both countries. Nicaragua's President of the National Assembly, Rene Nunez Tellez, hosted the discussion and witnessed the agreement made when Speaker of the Belize House of Representatives, Michael Peyrefitte, and President of the Congress of Guatemala, Mario Taracena, signed a declaration of peace. Representatives from other countries such as El Salvador, Honduras, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua attended the meeting and were mediators between Peyrefitte and Taracena. The declaration itself indicated six points, which both countries agreed to comply to. The first point is a reaffirmation by FOPREL to deepen and unite its desire for peace, freedom, democracy, development, justice and political participation of its people. The second point is a request for both countries to promote and facilitate the solution to all disagreements via dialogue and parliamentary diplomacy in accordance with due process and international agreements.

Ambergris Today

Congratulations to the graduating class of Island Academy 2016
Cody Romsa, Ethan Ancona, Lucy Verralls, Mariano Calderon, Mia Gonzalez and Natalie Winger who all received their diplomas today for completing their primary school studies at the MIA. Best wishes to the GRADS!

Blackadore Caye is Dying
According to the development and environmental teams of Blackadore Caye, the island is suffering immensely from erosion, land resource exploitation, local species degradation and deforestation and if no action is taken to stop, reverse and restore the island back to its pristine state, it will eventually disappear. The research team at Blackadore Caye has indicated all these variables affecting the island, which has already it has lost almost seven acres of land over the past couple years. The rich vegetation of the island is dying fast, along with the rich diversity of fauna that once inhabited the island. Coconut trees are suffering/dying from Lethal Yellowing disease and high levels of salinity in the soil content is preventing any other vegetation from flourishing other than high grass. Local hunting on the island has also completely rid the island of wild boars, coatimundi and deer. Before any construction of the eco-resort takes place, developers have stressed on the importance of restoring the island back to its pristine state, or at least kick start the process to ensure the island does not erode and die. This is why the project at Blackadore is being called "A Restorative Island"; developers, investors, architects and contractor are all conscious of the sensitivity of the island's eco systems and are willing to work under practices that will ensure the protection and enhancement of Blackadore's natural resources.

Belize Tattoo Expo
The artists are here and already making their mark. The very first International Tattoo Expo in San Pedro Belize is scheduled for (10AM-10PM) May 28th and 29th, 2016. The two day event will feature international tattoo artists from Mexico, Costa Rica, USA and of course also local artists. The artists will display their portfolios and be available for walk-in customers throughout the event and participate in a tattoo contest from 8-10PM on Sunday. Don't Miss the Extreme Show by Victer Max at 6pm on Saturday and 5:30PM on Sunday! You can purchase your tickets at Belizean Ink or at the entrance of the Expo at Angel Nu�ez Auditorium. Various DJ's and live bands including Caribbean Kings, Almost 7 and Verge of Umbra will provide musical entertainment. Food and drinks will be sold all day on both days of the event.

Misc Belizean Sourcesmzz

Sweet potato pone
1. Peel and grate sweet potatoes. Boil the coconut milk, evaporated milk and cinnamon, the ginger, butter and light brown sugar (az�car crema). 2. To this mixture, first add the grated mass of sweet potatoes and then the lime zest. Move the mass around and stir so that it is not too sticky nor too dry. 3. Bake it in the oven in a pre-greased baking mold of your preference for 1 hour at 350°F. Notes: Remember that the az�car crema will give it a more rustic flavor. Milk can be regular or evaporated. Be careful with the ginger because too much ginger can make it bitter. In addition to cinnamon, you can also use ground cloves (optional).

Corozal District power interruption postponed
Power interruption previously scheduled for Sunday May 29th for the entire Corozal District has been postponed until further notice.

Emergency power interruption 9:00am to 2:00pm, Friday, May 27, San Pedro, Ambergris Caye
Portion of North San Pedro between Journey's End & Tranquillity Bay Resort. BEL to replace broken utility pole carrying high voltage lines, caused by traffic accident in the area.

Belize Fishing Report May 17th - May 23rd
Orvis' Spring Bonefish Bonanza finished up early this week with some great weather and some big bonefish totals. A big thanks goes out to Jody and Jake from Orvis for hosting this event. They will be returning in June for another Bonanza ~ so call Orvis travel if you would like to join the fun.

Help Heal the Osprey's wing
We have a very special patient at BBR right now. So special that he deserved his own video and fundraising campaign! Perhaps on his first attempted flight, the fledgling dropped to the ground hitting a tree branch with his right wing, breaking it. He was rescued by a Caye Caulker local who called Belize Bird Rescue. Had she not done so, cats, possums, coatimundi would have killed him in no time. He has been X-rayed and his wing is now wrappped. But he needs to be in our care for approximately three months before release when he can be reunited his family. Note: June 15th is also double-up day for Global Giving: all contributions will be equally matched by the GG Rewards programme.

Belizeans Detained in Guatemala
The Embassy of Belize in Guatemala City received a report regarding the detention, by the Guatemalan Navy, of eight (8) persons confirmed to be Belizean nationals. The report from the Guatemalan Navy states that the persons were detained when they were found disembarking from their vessel at the Punta Manabique Beach, Dept. of Izabal, Guatemala. According to the Guatemalan Navy, seven of the eight individuals had in their possession Belizean fishing licenses, but no boat registration nor zarpe (a Guatemalan port authorization document). The Guatemalan Navy has handed the individuals to Guatemalan Immigration officials and they were transported to Guatemala City for processing.

World No Tobacco Day 2016
This year the World Health Organization (WHO) is preparing the public for plain packaging. The theme for World No Tobacco Day 2016 is "Get ready for plain packaging of tobacco products". WHO is encouraging countries to draft legislation focused on plain packaging of tobacco products - to restrict the use of logos, colors and brand images- and use graphic health images to discourage the sale of tobacco products, limit misleading packaging, and increase the effectiveness of health warnings. World No Tobacco Day is an opportunity to focus on tobacco products and its harmful effects. The Ministry of Health invites the public to join us on Tuesday, May 31st for official ceremonies at the National Drug Abuse Control Council (NDACC) office on Amara Avenue, Belize City starting at 9:30a.m.

ROAD IMPROVEMENTS in San Pedro!
San Pedrito streets are holding pretty well after the white mall was graded and rolled. Tropical Wave Street getting its fix of white mall.

Belize Progressive Party: Concern over assertion regarding ratification of Belize-Guatemala Compromis
The Belize Progressive Party (BPP), in keeping with its commitment to remain both vigilant and current with all matters involving the most pressing threat to the nation of Belize (that being Guatemala's existential and ever-increasing threat to our territorial integrity) takes issue with a statement made by Ambassador Stuart Leslie of the International Boundaries Commission (IBC), during the BNTU's Educational Forum on the matter of whether Belize should go to the ICJ, held in Orange Walk Town on 24th May 2016. During the session Ambassador Leslie expressed that "the Special Agreement / Compromis has already been ratified by the Senate�" Needless to say, this came as a shock because to our knowledge no such ratification has occurred. We asked for a date of reference and he advised that we check with the National Assembly. In keeping with our commitment to ensuring that due diligence is carried out to the fullest, we contacted the National Assembly and were informed that no such effort toward ratification is on record.

Cayo Maya Sites Prevail in TA Awards
5 Belize Maya Archaeological Sites made Trip Advisor Travelers' Choice Awards for 2016, and 3 of those are in Cayo. Caracol, the most impressive Maya site around, was ranked 4th place, Xunantunich was ranked 7th, and Cahal Pech took 14th. Might be why Cayo was ranked as 7th for places to visit in Central America. Lamanai came in 8th, and Altun Ha was ranked 20th.

National Festival of Arts today
National Festival of Arts continues this morning @10am with the Preschool Showcase and @7pm with Precision & Style Dance Group's first show - 'A New Beginning'

Social Media for the Travel Industry Training held in Hopkins, 26th May 2016.
The BTIA Secretariat extends its gratitude to the BTB, Mynor Larreieu, BTIA members from Dangriga and Hopkins for attending the training session.

Channel 7

Eight Belizeans Held By Guatemalan Navy
Eight Belizean fishermen are being held by the Guatemalan Navy tonight. The Belizean Embassy in Guatemala has learned that they were arrested when they were found getting out of their vessel at the Punta Manabique Beach in Izabal, Guatemala. This is believed to have happened sometime in the last 24 hours. Now as these maps show, that is the northernmost tip of Guatemalan territory jutting out into the Amatique Bay - which is in the Gulf of Honduras. It's diagonally across from Punta Gorda and juts out north of the Sarstoon boundary. The Guatemalan Navy reports that seven of the eight had Belizean fishing licenses, but no boat registration nor "zarpe" which is a Guatemalan port authorization document. All eight are now in the hands of Guatemalan Immigration and they have been transported to Guatemala City for processing.

Who Hunted Down el Diablo In Paraiso?
Delmar Guerra, they called him "El Diablo" - "the devil" in English, and yesterday in the village of Paraiso, he was executed with uncommon precision. It was a hit, pulled off by two men on a motorbike - that's the kind of narco killing we've only heard of in Mexico, Columbia and other crime capitals. But, now, it's come to Belize and today we went north to find out more about this execution in the early evening: Jules Vasquez reporting: Delmar Guerra was shot and killed here on the main road in Paraiso village, at the home of a relative who does his laundry. It's just around the corner from his home in Chula Vista, and so he was most likely relaxed - not expecting to confront threats. That's when two men on a dirt bike pulled up and opened fire - the multiple bullet holes in the windows of the van show the intensity of the attack. A neighbour who asked to appear off camera told us what she saw:

Is UDP Deputy Race Like Way Over The Top?
Finally, on Sunday, the UDP will hold its convention to select a new first deputy leader. Now, we stress it's only first deputy - but from the way they've been campaigning you'd think that the winner would automatically become the Prime Minister, or something. And he won't - but he will probably become Deputy Prime Minister, and then party leader, and somewhere down the road, if the political fortunes align, he could be Prime Minister. But we're not there yet. Not even close. So why are John Saldivar and Patrick Faber campaigning with such unbridled intensity? And for the votes of about 300 delegates!? Yes, 300 - that's all the winner will need to become first deputy leader. All these ads to get the votes of 300 UDP's!? Today we asked aspirant Faber if they are going over the top:.. Daniel Ortiz: "Are you ready for what supposed to come?" Hon. Patrick Faber, Aspirant - UDP 1st Deputy: "Ready. I've done all that I can do. I will continue working of course right up until the last ballot is put in that box on Sunday. But I am very confident of a win and that is because I have done the ground work that is necessary. I have been in the homes of the delegates, I have met with the groups, I have communicated my message as I vie for this position of first deputy leader of the party. I tell people that for me, while it is that the position of deputy prime minister may come, the people already know my record of working as a government minister. They know my work in that regard, but I also have a serious passion for the organization of the party."

Chester's Alleged Shooter To Court
For over two weeks now we have been reporting on the status of 19 year old Zachary Knox. He's the one being accused of opening fire on ACP Chester Williams during a high-speed chase. And he's also the one who appeared in the hospital right after that, the victim of a mysterious and merciless beatdown. Well today he was well enough to go to court, and his charges were made official when he appeared before Magistrate Carlon Mendoza, and read one count of aggravated assault, for shooting at ACP Williams, and one count of deadly means of harm. The second charge was in relation to the shooting on Euphrates Avenue, which led to the chase. Three others were charged for that same incident a couple weeks ago: they are Larry Wright, Devon Sankey and Justin Hyde. Knox now joins them on remand.

Driver Falls Out Of Truck, Crushed To Death Under His Own Wheels
A man was crushed under his own truck in a freak accident. It happened this morning after 5:00 between Miles 13 and 14 on the Phillip Goldson Highway. 31 year old Ernest Garcia was northbound to Orange Walk when he lost control of his pickup, tumbled out the door and was raked along on the highway as the vehicle rolled along. Today at a press conference, police explained what led to Garcia's death. Ernest Garcia was well known for selling the freshest roadside coconut water. Almost every day, he would park his truck filled with coconuts along the Phillip Goldson Highway near Belama. But today instead of being parked at that favorite spot. It's in the Ladyvillle Police Station's parking lot under inspection. That's after Garcia fell out of his truck while driving on the highway and got pinned and dragged under it. It's a bizarre accident and one police believe was caused by drunk driving and a damaged door.

Flipping Them Wheels And Living To Tell About it, Eventually
While police look into those samples, they also have to review the statements from another accident victim. Around 1:00 this morning, BDF officer Victor Aldana was driving a GEO Tracker to Cayo when he fell asleep near Mile 19 1/2 on the George Price Highway. The vehicle veered off the road and flipped. Luckily, Aldana survived. But instead of immediately calling the police, he ran off and left it there. It's only until later this morning that Aldana showed up at the Hattieville police station to report the accident. Here's what police had to say this morning just as Aldana arrived at the station. ACP Edward Broaster - OC, Easter Division Rural "We had a second accident on the George Price Highway where a dark grey Prizm flipped several times and landed on the shoulder of the road. The driver and occupants of that vehicle abandoned the scene. But we just learnt that he is at the Hattieville Police Station making a report as regard to that accident."

Texting, Also A Driver Safety Issue
So, all told, there have been at least 7 traffic accidents this week on the Phillip Goldson and George Price Highways within the Belize District. Police say they have been doing their part to set up patrols and check points along the highway but there's only so much they can do. Today Assistant Commissioner Broaster explained that apart from drinking and driving, a lot of the accidents now are caused by texting and driving. ACP Edward Broaster - OC, Easter Division Rural: "Our drivers tend to be distracted whilst driving on our roadways and one of the main factor for that is the use of cell phones whilst driving and we have to put some legislation in place to ban the use of cell phones whilst operating a vehicle. We have put highway patrol in place and we haven't have accident for a long while until after we had a meeting when Mr. Cocom mentioned that we haven't had an accident for a long time and the next day we had 7 in a row. Information is a demanding things, is an interesting thing and apparently some people just can't wait until they reach their destination to learn what that information is about. Hence the reason they take risk and look at their cell phones or read text what have you and put themselves in danger and other people lives in danger that are using our roadways."

Weed Smoke Wafts Above O'Walk
Back in the late 90's and early two - thousands when there were huge drug busts - like tonnes of cocaine - destroying all that would take a whole day at the furnace - in fact, (true story), one time the police just took a few hundred pounds of cocaine bricks, cut them open and dumped it all in the sea! But, those mega busts just don't come along anymore - and who knows why...but we do know that the cops have to wait a few years before accumulating enough drugs for a good day at the furnace. Today was one of those days when the national exhibit keeper at the Queen Street station got a few hundred pounds of weed ready for the fire. 7News was there in Orange Walk when it al went up in smoke:... Jules Vasquez reporting: This morning, a thick plume of marijuana smoke streamed out across the skies over Orange Walk Town. At this height, probably only birds could get a high from the second hand smoke, but at the furnace, we were feeling the heat first hand.

Two Horses Perish In Bush Fire
And while that was a controlled fire, another that killed two horses, was not; in fact, it was a wildfire. Hattieville police report that a bush fire spread to a barn where it killed two horses. The area had been experiencing wildfires - and while the fire department did respond it was too late for the horses. Police say they do not know who owned the barn or the horses, and will go back into the neighborhood to get more information. Police were initially investigating the incident as a possible arson and cruelty to animals, but now they believe that it was all caused by a nearby forest fire, that due to all the dried grass in the area, traveled quickly and smothered the small barn.

Rasberry Pi Brigade
Back in August, we showed you the ambitious undertaking from the Public Utilities Commission. They spent just over a half a million dollars to acquire Raspberry Pi computers, which they distributed for free to high schools all across the country. These miniature computers are the perfect teaching tools to enable students to improvise, innovate, and invent. They can easily dismantle the entire device, and freely reconfigure them. So, the PUC handed the computers out to the IT teachers in the 6 districts, and trained them on how they work. The kids ran with it from there and today, the PUC hosted its first Raspberry Pi Jam, to see what the schools had come up with. Daniel Ortiz got a chance to see the creations for himself. Here's his report:

US Conservationists Make Case Against Conch
A legal battle in the US is threatening the foreign exchange earnings of Caribbean nations, including Belize. That's because a group of conservationists from the United States are suing their government for its 2014 decision to not list the queen conch as threatened or endangered. Last week the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) attended the 7th Annual Meeting of the CARICOM-US Trade and Investment Council, where one of the key topics was this threat of litigation. The Executive Director for the CRFM Secretariat, whose offices are located in Belize, attended that meeting. Today we spoke to him regarding this situation. He explained to us why this is of such major concern for the Caribbean region. Milton O. Huaghton, Exec. Dir., CRFM Secretariat: "Our countries together, we are currently exporting queen conch to the United States, that's the main export market. We and some of our countries also export to the European Union. It is a very important market - United States market for us and we really would not like to have this market opportunity closed and the trade in queen conch disrupted. For that to happen, there would be repercussions down the line.

Friday Festival
And that's the news on this Friday night - we leave you with more highlites of the Primary School Festival of the Arts Districts Showcase. Tonight's clips are from Orange Walk and Belize City youth performers.

Channel 5

GAF Stops Local Media from Traversing the Sarstoon River
Tonight, the uncertainty surrounding that volatile zone known as the Sarstoon is alive and well after Guatemalan Armed Forces denied a News Five team passage down the river this morning, [...]

PM Responds to Guatemala's Restriction of Access to the Sarstoon
Even as our team headed back to Belize City, deterred from entering the Sarstoon but having made the point that Guatemala isn't playing on the same checkerboard, Prime Minister Dean [...]

PM Says There's a Clear, Unwritten Understanding Between Belize & Guatemala
A release issued by government on Tuesday, announcing the revocation of the Sarstoon Prohibition SI, stated that, "While the formal mechanism is being worked on, the two sides have informally [...]

Will Government Reinstitute Sarstoon Law?
So with Belizean civilians still not able to enter the Sarstoon, what happens next? Will government perhaps seek to reinstitute the Sarstoon Law?   On the Phone: Prime Minister Dean [...]

What About the B.D.F.; Will They Still be Chased Up the River?
It's clear what the real protocol is at the Sarstoon where civilians are concerned. Belizeans can't go there. But what about the B.D.F.? We all saw footage of the Guatemalan [...]

Belizeans Fishermen Arrested in Guatemala for Illegal Entry
There is another developing story. It is well-known that Guatemalan nationals illegally enter Belizean territory for illegal activities. Most recently when the Sarstoon law applied, their fishermen routinely traversed into [...]

Murder in Paradise, El Diablo is Executed in a Hail of Gunfire
The fourth murder for the Corozal District for this year took place on Thursday evening in the village of Paraiso. Thirty-seven year old Delmar Guerra was trailed and executed by [...]

Oswald Garcia Perishes in Road Traffic Accident
There was a fatal road traffic accident early this morning, involving a pickup truck traveling along the George Price Highway.� Thirty-one-year-old Oswald Garcia was violently flung from his vehicle between [...]

Sleepy B.D.F. Soldier Escapes Traffic Mishap Unscathed
A second traffic mishap also occurred in the early hours after midnight, this time involving a Geo Prism traveling along the George Price Highway.� Victor Aldana, a Belize Defense Force [...]

Patrick Faber Says His Victory is Certain
With less than seventy-two hours to go before over three hundred delegates of the United Democratic Party cast ballots to determine a new first deputy leader, campaigns on either side [...]

Faber Says He’s Laying the Groundwork for Transition in 2020
The campaign between Faber and his opponent John Saldivar has been rather intense with blows coming from both sides. Inside the Faber camp, it is believed that he will win [...]

Bob Bandfield Pleads Guilty to Money Laundering in the U.S.
The Wall Street Journal is reporting that US businessman, Robert Bandfield, has pleaded guilty to helping stock manipulators launder two hundred and fifty million dollars through Belize. The seventy-one year [...]

Zachary Knox is Finally Charged for Shooting at Chester Williams
After being released from the K.H.M.H., nineteen year Zachary Knox is tonight on remand at the Belize Central Prison. "Yankee," as he is popularly known, claims he was badly beaten [...]

Businesswoman Sandra Sol Dragged to Court for Failure to Pay GST
A businesswoman from the downtown plaza in Belize City was taken to court today by the GST Department on two charges for failing to issue receipts and failing to utilize [...]

A Training Workshop for Lawyers and Medical Practitioners on Mental Health
The bar and the judiciary, along with representatives of the Ministry of Health, gathered today at the Radisson for a training workshop on persons with mental health disorders and the [...]

Bar Association on Mental Health and the Criminal Justice System
Co-executive Director Pervais Jabbar, of the Death Penalty Project, reiterates that the knowledge generated from today's discussions can be useful if applied to individual cases involving persons with mental health [...]

Raspberry Pi for High School Innovators
High schools from across the country converged on Belize City today where students participated in a competition geared towards young innovators.� The goal is to use a miniature computer platform [...]

The National Festival of Arts Showcase
For two weeks, the National Festival of Arts will feature creative arts performances in drama, song, music and dance from preschoolers, primary school children, secondary students and even teachers. It [...]

"You are in national waters. You need to leave now" - Guatemalan Military to News 5 team in the Sarstoon River on May 27, 2016
On Tuesday, the Government of Belize announced that the Sarstoon is once again open to Belizeans. This was one outcome of the Istanbul Talks. This morning our News 5 reporter, Mike Rudon, & cameraman, Darrel Moguel, attempted to travel into the controversial river. Within minutes of entering the river their vessel was intercepted by the Guatemalan Armed Forces.


Joined: Oct 1999
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LOVE FM

Belizeans Detained in Guatemala
Eight men confirmed to be Belizean fishermen were detained by the Guatemalan Navy and handed over to the Guatemalan Immigration officials and taken to Guatemala City for processing.Reports are that the men were detained when they were found disembarking their vessel at the Punta Manabique Beach in the Department of Izabal , Guatemala. Of the [�]

Countdown for the Deputy Seat in UDP
The United Democratic Party will be holding a convention on Sunday to elect the party's first deputy party leader. The post was left vacant after Orange Walk North area representative and Deputy Prime Minister, Gaspar Vega, resigned from the post. As has been reported, the two men vying to fill the position, are Minister of [�]

Turkey Commits Funds to the OAS Peace Fund for Belize and Guatemala
The Organization of American States has been at the centre of the negotiations between Belize and Guatemala but of recent, there were serious concerns that the OAS may have to pull out as their funding was on the verge of being depleted. In an effort to keep them in office at the adjacency zone, both [�]

PUC Hosts Expo of Innovations and Technology
The Raspberry PI Jam, is an exposition highlighting the innovations from more than thirty High schools across the country. The event is being hosted by the Public Utilities Commission that has invested approximately half a million dollars for students to bring their innovations to life. Minister of Education Patrick Faber and Consultant for the Public [�]

Two Horses Perish in Bush Fire
Bush fires are common in the dry season which we are currently facing in Belize. Today, however was an extremely busy day for the firemen in the Belize District as there were several threats to homes and properties due to bush fires. While there was no loss of life or home, there was the loss [�]

Central Bank and Union Sign Collective Agreement; Others Remain Pending
The Christian Workers Union has been busy in recent negotiations as just yesterday they signed onto two separate Collective Bargaining Agreements in Belize City. We have told you of the CBA signed onto with the Belize Port Authority whereby the union and non-union staff members of the Belize Port Authority will be getting salary increases [�]

Union President Speaks on Severance and Pension
The Christian Workers Union has a mandate to fight for its union members and to ensure that their employers follow the labour laws of Belize when it comes to salaries, benefits and the likes. With the recent signing of two Collective Bargaining Agreements with Central Bank of Belize and the Belize Port Authority, CWU's President, [�]

How the Belize Port Authority Operates
The Belize Port Authority is a Statutory Body established in July 1980 and falling Under the Ministry of Works and Transport. It is overseen by a board of Directors with a Chairman that represents the Minister as well as two ex-officio members being the Financial Secretary and the Chief Executive Officers and Seven other members nominated by [�]

PlusTV

Orange Walk woman perishes in traffic accident
There was a fatal traffic accident in Orange Walk on Wednesday evening. It happened sometime around 4:30 p.m. on the San Felipe and involved a KIA Sportage vehicle. According to police reports, 55 year old Elba Gongora , a saleswoman of Orange Walk Town, was driving the vehicle and along with her at...

Truck carrying cement flips near Iguana Creek Bridge
There was a second traffic accident; this one happened this morning at the Iguana Creek Bridge going to Spanish Lookout. A truck was heading towards Spanish Lookout loaded with Cement and just before the truck reached the Iguana Creek bridge, the driver lost control on the curve and flipped. Fortuna...

Vehicle skids off highway due to fresh chip seal
A third accident occurred today on the Humming Bird highway in Armenia village. We don't have much details except that it happened around 1:30 this afternoon and involved a 4 door gray Hilux pickup which was travelling on that portion of the highway which is under rehabilitation. While traveling on...

Guatemalan Car Thieves Busted in Melchor
A Toyota Coralla car was stolen in Cayo and police suspected a Guatemalan was the culprit. Belize police contacted their Guatemalan counterparts who captured 19 year old Brayan Gabriel Hoil Rose, the person alleged to have stolen the vehicle. Rose was found with the car in Melchor at 5:20 p.m. on We...

Cenaida's Restaurant in Cayo destroyed by fire
Cayo police are investigating a fire which occurred in San Ignacio on Wednesday night. According to reports, Cenaida's Restaurant was completely destroyed as a result of the blaze. The restaurant was located on West Street in San Ignacio Town, The cause of the fire remains under investigation and th...

Retired BDF Colonel speaks on Guatemalan incursion in Sarstoon
Retired Colonel of the BDF, Javier Castellanos, appeared on PlusTV's Rise and Shine morning show to share his observations on the recent Guatemalan incursions on the Sarstoon. Castellanos has served in various capacities in Belize and Guatemala as Deputy Commander of the BDF and Military Attac...

Collective Bargaining Agreement Signed by CWU and Port of Belize
It began with much back and forth over several years, strikes, and hard talk, but negotiations took a peaceful and cordial course and now a new Collective Agreement has finally been signed between the Belize Port Authority (BPA) and the Christian Workers Union (CWU). That signing took place at the...

CBB & CWU sign new Collective Agreement
Christian Workers Union had another signing today, this one with the Central Bank of Belize. CWU President Audrey Matura-Shepherd said, "Our Members at the Central Bank of Belize (CBB) are relieved that we have today signed this successor Collective Agreement (CA) between the Bank and the Christian...

Police link firearm to recent incidents; search for minor arsonist
There is news from Ladyville Police tonight. We start with a firearm found when the late Lionel Rhamdas and others ambushed a group of men at the Lozano residence on Marage Road in Ladyville two weeks ago this Saturday. Officer Commanding Eastern Division Rural, ACP Edward Broaster now says that fir...

Teenagers, 20 and 19, pleaded guilty to wounding 64 year old man
Senior citizen and fisherman 64 year old Lester Hernandez was allegedly caught taking public relief at the BTL Park on Newtown Barracks this past Sunday. He received a beating for his trouble and today two teenagers were made to pay fines for taking the law into their own hands. 20 year old Justin ...

Zachary Knox moves from police custody to critical at KHMH
19 year old Zachary Knox the young man that allegedly fired shots at Eastern Division South Commander, ACP Chester Williams on May 12, is reportedly admitted to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) in critical condition. Knox has been charged with ACP Chester William's attempted murder but he...

Another police officer attempted suicide
Yesterday, we told you about the shocking suicide of a police officer who took his life with a loaded gun on the steps of a Belize City police precinct. However, according to reports, another police officer had attempted to take his life even before PC Edward Gonzalez did on Wednesday morning. On ...

BPP expresses concern over Ambassador's statements
Today the Belize Progressive Party - BPP, issued a Press release regarding statements they claimed were made by one Government representative at the first Teachers ICJ Educational Forum held in Orange Walk on May 24th. The BPP, which also has a seat at the head table, say they take issue with ...

IMF Says Belize 'economy is slowing and fiscal and external vulnerabilities are rising
The International Monetary Fund Staff has release preliminary findings after their visit to Belize from May 11-25, 2016. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) team was led by Jacques Bouhga-Hagbe , and at conclusion of the visit, Mr. Bouhga-Hagbe issued a statement in which he says in part that &...

The Reporter

Guatemalan Navy detains eight Belizeans
The Government of Belize confirmed late Friday evening that the Guatemalan Navy has detained eight Belizean fishermen. The information, disseminated by the government's Press Office, indicates the Belizeans, seven of whom possessed Belizean fishermen's licenses, were detained "when they were found disembarking from their vessel at the Punta Manabique Beach, Dept. of Izabal, Guatemala," the release states. The Guatemalan Navy has indicated, the release states, that none of the men had a boat registration (a Guatemalan port authorization document). The Guatemalan Navy has handed the men to Guatemalan Immigration officials and they were transported to Guatemala City for processing, the information continues. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Belize Embassy staff in Guatemala have been in communication with the individuals to confirm they are in good health.

Coconut harvester dies in road accident
Ernest Garcia, 32, a coconut harvester died while driving his vehicle on the Philip Goldson highway. The incident happened sometime after 1:00 a.m. on Friday between miles 12 and 13, while Garcia was heading from the direction of Belize City towards Orange Walk. Police say [�]

Oceana holds “Hands Across the Sand”
Oceana hosted its annual “Hands Across the Sand” protest against offshor oil drilling in Belize this past Saturday and saw participation from 13 municipalities across the country. Belizeans from around the country joined hands along the shores of water bodies and public areas on Saturday to stand against offshore oil […]

A Successful Walk for A Green Belize 2016
The Department of the Environment (DOE), in collaboration with the Belize Solid Waste Management Authority (BSWMA) and the Belize Audubon Society (BAS), hosted its annual "Walk For A Green Belize" cleanup campaign last Saturday. The event covered approximately 77 miles of the George Price highway. Both sides of the road […]

Taiwan's new female President inaugurated - Belize celebrates
The government and people of Belize joined their friends of the Republic of China on Taiwan in celebrating the inauguration of their first woman President, Tsai Ing-wen, of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) on Friday, May 20. While Deputy Prime Minister Gaspar Vega and Foreign Minster Wilfred "Sedi" Elrington represented […]

Taiwanese experts: Taiwan needs to strenghten diplomatic ties with allies, including Belize
In her inaugural speech last week, Taiwanese President, Tsai Ing-wen promised to keep peaceful dialogue with mainland China, which has intensified its threats over claims to the island. But members of the Taiwan Brain Trust, a panel of eight professors in areas of politics, economics, […]

Deforestation shrinks Jaguars' habitat
The jaguar, iconic symbol of the Belize tourism industry, is under threat from farmers shooting them to protect livestock; as agricultural land-clearing has reduced the jaguars' hunting grounds and pushed them closer to farms raising cattle and sheep. Yamira Novelo of the University of Belize's Environmental Research Institute (UB-ERI) sounded […]

Venezuela tells Caribbean to watch out for surge of refugees
Authorities in Venezuela are asking Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries to be prepared for a surge of refugees as the the socioeconomic situation in the country worsens. Ram�n Muchacho, Mayor of of Chacao in Venezuela's capital city, Caracas, explained that as food shortages persist, people are leaving the […]

Prevention is key to fighting chronic diseases
"A good health information system to help in the tracking and management of patients is key to the prevention of chronic diseases," expalined Hung-Tsu "Cathy" Wang. She is Director of the Humanitarian Assistance Department of Taiwan's International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF). The remarks came […]

Former Minister Elijio Joe Brice�o laid to rest
Former Minister of Government Elijio Joe Brice�o, was laid to res at the Piemonte cemetery in Orange Walk Town following an official funeral ceremony at the la Inmaculada Church on Wednesday afternoon, May 25. Prime Minister Dean Barrow and his wife, Special Envoy for Women […]

Editorial

The late Franklin D. Roosevelt in his first inaugural address (1933) told the American people,"The only thing we have to fear – is fear itself – debilitating, unjustified terror which paralyses needed effort to convert retreat into advance." That declaration by one of America's greatest presidents has inspired millions of […]

Suicide and suicide attempt baffle police
The Belize Police Department has more questions than answers this week, after one officer committed suicide in front of the Queen Street Police Station and another is hospitalized recovering from a suicide attempt. The Divisional Commanders of the Eastern Division of the department, explained on […]

IMF mission predicts dark days ahead for Belize
Belize is on its way to difficult financial days involving heavier deficits and slower economic growth, according to an end�-of-mission report from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). An IMF team led by Jacques Bouhga�Hagbe visited Belize for an economic assessment known as an Article IV […]

Belize volleyball men win Gold at 2016 Copa Cancun
The Belize National Men's Volleyball Team on the Copa Cancun Tournament for the first time ever, eliminated Mexican favorites "Ejercito" in two sets in the championship finals at the Kuchil Baxal Gymnasium in Cancun on Sunday, 22. The Belize men won the first set 25-23 […]

Second confirmed Zika virus case in Belize is a pregnant woman
The Ministry of Health this week confirmed a second case of the Zika virus in the country, in a pregnant woman from Cotton Tree Village in the Cayo district. The Ministry said that it received confirmation of the Zika infection from the Caribbean Public Health […]

BDF soldier escapes death when vehicle careens off highway
Victor Aldana, a Belize Defence Force (BDF) soldier narrowly escaped death when he lost control of the vehicle he was driving early Friday morning on the George Price highway. Aldana told police he had just left the BDF camp at Price Barracks, Ladyville, and was […]

Breaking Belize NewsPJ

Belizean fishermen held in Guatemala
The Government of Belize has confirmed the ongoing detention of eight fishermen in Guatemala City. The Guatemalan Navy states that the persons were detained when they were found disembarking from their vessel at the Punta Manabique Beach, Department of Izabal, Guatemala. According to the [�]

Zachary Knox finally arraigned; Family plans to speak out about alleged police abuse
19 year old Zachary Knox, a resident of Rio Grande Crescent who allegedly fired shots at Assistant Commissioner of Police Chester Williams, was charged with aggravated assault and use of deadly means of harm when he appeared today before Magistrate Carlon Mendoza. The charge [�]

Reporters stopped at Sarstoon
News 5's Mike Rudon and cameraman Darrell Moguel report that this morning, as they attempted to travel into the Sarstoon River, their vessel was intercepted by the Guatemalan Armed Forces. On Tuesday of this week, the Government of Belize lifted the Sarstoon Regulations Order, [�]

Mainly warm conditions to prevail
The National Meteorological Service of Belize is predicting mostly sunny skies today and partly cloudy skies tonight. Showers, if any, will be isolated. Winds will be blowing from the East at 5-15 knots and the sea state will be choppy. High temperatures today are [�]

Blogs

Local Female Entrepreneur Rocks San Pedro, Belize with Her Delicious Paletas
26 year old Regina Sansores, born and raised on Ambergris Caye and mother of two, came up with a fantastic idea (with the help of her husband) and is putting her heart, soul and time into it. Her home refrigerator and freezer have only paletas and paleta ingredients in them. Really. In just about a year, she has grown her unique business, Las Paletas by Regina, into a mini empire. And as another female, a business person, someone who lives across the street from Regina, lover of this island and all things delicious, I could not be prouder. I'll back up for just one moment if you are not familiar with paletas. They are not merely popsicles but fresh fruit (Juice and chunk) and sometimes cream frozen on a stick. They are absolutely fantastically delicious and certain flavors appear during the year - like now you can eat MANGO! - when the fruits are in season. They are extremely popular throughout Mexico and Central America.

International Sourcesizz

Cayman Islands residents given assurances as GM mosquitoes set to be released
GRAND CAYMAN, Cayman Islands, Thursday May 26, 2016 - Millions of genetically engineered mosquitoes are due to be released next month in the fight against the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which transmits the Zika, Dengue Fever and Chikungunya viruses. The project is being rollout out in West Bay, where officials say up to 200,000 of the genetically engineered insects could be released three times a week to breed with regular females. "The essence of this technique is the use of effectively sterile male mosquitoes, which are released in the environment then mate with the wild female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which are already out there. The progeny of those female mosquitoes then do not complete development, they all die, so they do not reach maturity," Bill Petrie, Director of the Mosquito Research and Control Unit told residents at a meeting. British company Oxitec has sought to allay fears of health risks and damage to the environment, with its Product Development Manager Derek Nimmo stating that all traces of the bio-engineered insects disappeared within weeks after trials.

Videos

  • Rocky Point Aerial View, 1min. A Birdseye view of Rocky Point, North Ambergris Caye, Belize

  • Cayo Frances Farm & Fly, 4min. Thirty-six miles off the coast of Belize City, Belize, lies a fly fisherman's dream destination. Cayo Frances Farm & Fly is a small fly fishing camp and vacation get-a-way. Located on Ambergris Caye, this modest destination has some of the best fishing in Belize. The camp's owner, Jeff Spiegel, was gracious enough to house the BOTE team for a few days and give them a preview of the camp before it opens for business later this year.

  • The Creation Story of the Maya, 3min. The Popol Vuh narrates the Maya creation story, the tales of the Hero Twins, and the account of the creation of the sky, the Earth, and all life. SHOW MORE

  • The Inspire Celebration Fundraiser, 1min. The Inspire Celebration will take place on June 18, 2016 at the Mahogany Bay Village in San Pedro Ambergis Caye. All proceeds go to the Inspiration Center.

  • Pastor Rose message children conference 2016, 24min. Pastor Ross is a powerful woman of God, she has powerful ministry and school at Cayo district of Belize, Central America. She is been a regular minister at CHRIST LOVE FAMILY Children Conferences.

  • Belize Barrier Reef Scuba Diving, 4min. Scuba Diving the Belize Barrier Reef with Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort, including close-ups of a Nurse Shark, Spotted Rays, Lobsters, Seahorse, Puffer Fish, Moray Eel & more!

  • Belize Snorkeling, 6min. Snorkeling in Belize, 11-17 May, 2016. Video clips are taken from Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Mexico Rocks, Shark Ray Alley, and Tuffy Rocks.

  • Belize Pig Tail Meatloaf, 6min. This is what happens when you turn the national dish of Belize, Belizean Boil Up, into a meatloaf- a heavy, starchy meatloaf with a prominent pork flavor and a hint of salmon

  • Belize 2015 SlideShow, 10min. Orange Walk, Lamanai and Ambergris Caye.


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