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Posted By: Marty Today's Belize News: May 9, 2015 - 05/09/15 11:38 AM


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Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5 and CTV 3
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The San Pedro Sun

Island community must unite to fight Crime!
Concerned San Pedro residents have come together once more in an effort to unite against the recent surge of crime. Headed by Footprints for Peace, residents of all ages participated in a solemn walk of solidarity followed by a gathering pledging support in the fight over crime. Around 200 residents participated, demonstrating their point of contention. Many of those affected by violence also took time to voice out their opinions and feelings, offering potential solutions for the island. The event started shortly after 6PM, as residents congregated at Central Park dressed in white, ready to walk across Town Core in a show of solidarity for the fallen victims of crime. The walk was triggered by the recent murders of two taxi operators as well as the increase in organized crime activities in San Pedro. Jose Rigoberto Beltran and Dionisio Trujillo are two most recent murders out of the seven persons that have been killed in 2015 on Ambergris Caye, including 2-year-old toddler Charlie Espat.

Letter to the Editor: Recommendations for Mayor Daniel Guerrero
Dear Mr. Mayor, Please, take a moment to just once listen and understand. How much money do you believe has been placed upon this wonderful and tiny island by foreigners who have come here to invest? How much money do you think has been placed here by local business people who have sunk their life savings into running their own businesses here? People who have arrived here with their funds, lived here, been born here, all using their money to build resorts, restaurants, shops and bars etc. Additionally, those businesses employ many, many local people who otherwise would not have jobs. Do you actually believe that foreigners (who are much more mobile with their wealth) are sitting here with their heads in the sand ignoring what's going on? The answer is "NO", they see and hear the same things and the same complaints the tourists are making. Those businesses have seen record losses this year. RECORD. When a business starts to see major losses, the owners look to other places to operate. When that happens, the business is sold, closed or worse they write it off as a loss and simply walk away. ONE single business may employ 50-100 local residents' possibly more. Larger businesses employ even more. Local owned family businesses close with no funds to support the family. Foreign investors that sell and walk away are more mobile to do so, right or wrong, they will leave.

American woman robbed of over $3k
53-year-old American National, Gloria Horne has reported to the San Pedro Police that on Friday, May 1st she was robbed while driving home. Horne told police that while driving her golf cart past the San Pablo Area en route to her residence in the DFC Area at about 10PM, she was attacked by three male individuals who were riding on bicycles. One of the men (of dark complexion, slim build and about 6ft in height) grabbed her off the golf cart and started punching her in the face. She stated that she begged him to stop attacking her, but he did not seize. Horne stated that she feared for her life and was screaming for help as she believed that they were going to kill her. The while the one man was beating her, the other two grabbed her brown purse, valued at $200US. The purse contained her driver's license valued at $123US, bank card, prescription Ray Ban sunglasses valued at $500US, white Iphone 4s valued at $400US, Android tablet valued at $125US, diamond necklace with a cross valued at $250US, and $70US cash for a total value of $1,668US or $3,336BZ. They also damaged the golf cart horn, valued at $25BZ.

Celebrating 30 years of The Rum Punch II!
She is not fancy; her humble exterior belies how much she truly means to so many, but The Rum Punch II is hands down, the BEST adventure on the water. Built by hand over two years, from mahogany wood, she is solid. Her red exterior and off-white sails stand out over the hues of blue and green waters. She's not huge; in fact, she's perfect for no more than a dozen people on board ready to enjoy some adventures on the water. With owner George Eiley at the helm, a gallon of his extra special rum punch at the ready, cruising the Caribbean is a breeze! And for 30 years, The Rum Punch II has been providing an escape for those who seek it, if only for a few hours. The Rum Punch is my happy place, and has been for a long time. It has also made George very happy in the years he's navigated the waters on board her. He regaled us with stories of his foray into this sailing adventure, which officially started in 1985. Oh those tales of island hopping all along the coastline of beautiful Belize!!! His photographs show us but just a few glimpses into his daring adventures overnight.

SPTC addresses improper sewage disposal
San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) has taken new steps to ensure that raw sewage is properly disposed of. The issue was raised on Friday, February 20th after several residents identified a local cargo operator dumping raw sewage onto the roadside that leads to the island's dumpsite. As such, SPTC members met with representatives from Belize Water Service Limited (BWSL) and the Department of Environment (DOE) on Monday, March 30th to discuss how incidents such as these can be prevented. While plans are made to construct the leaching bed, BWSL will allow cargo operators to dispose of raw sewage into the ponds themselves. Of course, operators would need to inform BWSL in order to have the proper supervision during the time of dumping. "It's going to take time to build the leaching bed so in the meantime these person that do this business of cleaning septic tanks will be allowed to dump raw sewage into the ponds. BWSL will have employees designated to supervise them. The supervision is just to ensure that there is no damage to the ponds because the composition of the Sewage Pond is very delicate," said Gonzalez. BWSL ponds use natural bacteria to break down the composition of human waste, so if the raw sewage collected from septic tanks has additives and chemicals, it could kill the bacteria.



A new month-long photo exhibit has opened at the San Pedro House of Culture (SPHC) and it features scenes from the island's younger years. The exhibit is by none other than professional wedding photographer Kay Scott who has been living on the island for over three decades. In her time here, she has captured stunning time lapses of the simple village life which was once San Pedro. Together with the San Pedro House of Culture, Scott organized an exhibit of over 70 pictures that was open to the public for viewing on Thursday, April 30th. Titled "Village Life in San Pedro", the exhibit features photographs from as far back as 1982 when Scott first visited the island. At the opening ceremony, Scott reminisced on the scenes of San Pedro that made her fall in love with the island. Most of Scott's pictures show a time before tourism became the island's top industry, when fishing was the main way of life in San Pedro. The nostalgic pictures take you back to a time of sandy streets and wooden houses, before golf carts and even cable television.

Ambergris Today

Miss San Pedro Michelle Nunez is a Busy Queen
When Miss San Pedro, Michelle Nu�ez, is not busy with her regular 'Queenly" duties as beauty ambassador of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize, (attending community events, hosting pageants, inaugurating businesses, travelling abroad, assisting at fundraising events) she is even busier working on side projects associated with S.H.I.N.E. (Shaping Healthy Identities through Nurturing and Empowerment). The S.H.I.N.E program was developed by Michelle Nu�ez and sponsored by On Eagles Wings Ministries. Michelle serves at the Director of S.H.I.N.E. which keeps her on her toes as she works with young women between the ages of 13 and 16. The program's goal is to empower and motivate girls to reach their full potential. Currently, Michelle is working with a group on the first semester of the program involving them in fun activities to boost self esteem and encourage healthy decision-making.

Misc Belizean Sourcesmzz

Hands Across the Sand
Our friends from Oceana cordially invite everyone to come on Saturday, May 16, 2015 to come together and stand in solidarity against Offshore Oil drilling. Take this opportunity to come and unite in one silent solidarity to send your powerful message that we love our country and that we care for our children's future.

BEL position open for PR
A vacancy exists at Belize Electricity Limited for the post of Senior Public Relations Officer in the Public Relations Unit.

WE ARE HIRING!!!!
The U.S. Embassy has two new vacancies for a Protocol Assistant and a Supply Supervisor. Please click on the link if you are interested in applying and joining our team!

BOLEDO DRAWING for Friday, May 8, 2015: 73

NOEL 'MUSCLES' GORDON, BELIZE'S CYCLING SPRINTER!
Belizean Ruler of Mexico's 90 Miles Ciudad del Carmen Cycling Classic. The first Belizean cycling sprinter to first win Mexico's renowned 90 miles Ciudad del Carmen Cycling Classic was the legendary Belizean cycling machine, Noel Gordon in 1969. Gordon later went to win the race two consecutive times before Rudy Miguel won his Mexico's Merida Cycling Classic in 1972. In the Annual Belize Holy Saturday Cross Country Cycling Classics of 1969, 1970, and 71, Gordon placed in the top five of riders entering the National Stadium but had never won the grueling 144 miles cycling classic.

Channel 7

Lucilla Bartley Gets Acquitted Of Murder
After spending 4 years on remand for the stabbing death of Osborne "Fish" Gordon, 52 year-old Lucilla Bartley, aka "Chilla" is at home tonight after Justice Troadio Gonzalez acquitted her in a trial without jury this morning. Viewers may remember that Gordon was stabbed to death on April 24, 2011, at around 1:30 a.m. on the corner of Cemetery Road and Curassow Street. Shortly after police started investigating the death, Bartley was charged with the crime of murder, and she was remanded to the Belize Central Prison. Well, it came out in her trial before Justice Gonzalez Bartley was the one who gave police a caution statement admitting to fatally stabbing him, but she claimed self-defence. Nevertheless, the decision was taken to charge her with the capital offence. In the trial, evidence emerged that Bartley, who once had a romantic relationship with Gordon, was walking with another man on Cemetery Road. That's when Gordon spotted him, and in an apparent drunken rage, he approached her and threaten her life with a knife. She told the court that she had a history of domestic abuse with this man, who often beat her severely. She says that Gordon attacked her, and she had to defend herself.

Kachief Charged For Derrick's Murder
On Wednesday, we told you about the murder of 18 year-old Derrick Romero, who became the 3rd teenager to be violently killed in Orange Walk Town. Well, police have made and arrest, and tonight that young man is at the Belize Central Prison. The man who police believed pulled the trigger is 20 year-old Kachief Sylvester Bevans, a resident of Waight Street, Belize City. He was formally arrested and charged with the crime of murder, and he was arraigned today in the Orange Walk Magistrate's Court. Due to the Nature of the Offences, he couldn't be granted bail, and he was remanded to the Belize Central Prison until his next court date, which is set for June 30. As we reported, it happened just after 10 on Wednesday morning in front of Romero's apartment building on Sittee River Street. Romero was socializing with several persons when a gunman approached them and fired 5 or more shots at him. No one else was injured, but Romero suffered multiple gunshots to the body, including one to the neck area. He was rushed to the KHMH, but he died while undergoing treatment.

Charged For Armed Robbery At New Asia
We told you last night how robbers attacked the New Asia Restaurant, located on Vernon Street, on Wednesday night. Well, police have made a quick arrest and tonight, 22 year-old Dixon Montero is at the Belize Central Prison in connection with that incident in which the security guard was shot by the fleeing assailants. Dixon Montero, who is a Honduran National without legal immigration status in Belize, was arraigned today before Senior Magistrate Sharon Frazer. He was read charges of attempted murder, dangerous harm, and use of deadly means of harm. Due to the nature of the offences, no plea was taken, and he was denied bail. He will be brought back to court on June 3. As we told you, it happened at around 8:50 in which two men barged into the long standing Chinese Restaurant. One of the men was armed with a gun, and they made it all the way to the cash register, where the armed robber pointed the weapon at one of the proprietors. She shouted for the guard, and that apparently spooked the assailants who tried to flee. On the way out, they met Security Guard Victor Hendy, who was on duty. He was on the phone trying to call for help, and as soon as the men saw him, the armed robber shot him in the neck and ran off into Mosul Street. He continues to receive treatment at the KHMH.

Dangriga Robbery Suspect Claims Severe Police Brutality
Right now, 21 year-old John Pasqual, a resident of Dangriga Town is at the KHMH receiving treatment for what appears to be a brain injury. His family is claiming that police from Dangriga put a beat down on him, and caused the injuries. Pascual, who has been encountered by police before, is accused of participating in the robbery of a drug store with 2 other men which happened on last week Friday night. The details, as far as we were informed, is that police responded to the robbery in progress, and saw when the men were trying to escape. A few shots were fired, and Pasqual, according to his family, jumped off the bridge into the water to avoid being captured by police. His brother, who was allegedly a witness to the crime, reportedly went to where Pasqual was hiding, and escorted him to the police station, and handed him over to police, knowing that he was one of the prime suspects. That's where the situation gets clouded, and his family says that between Friday night and Tuesday when he was finally arrested and charged for robbery, he was injured in the head, reportedly in police custody, and now he has suffered some effects of what appears to be brain injury. His sister, who asked to appear off camera, explained what she knows about the robbery and the alleged police brutality:

How Did Veronica Die From Meningitis?
Last night we told you about the 5 year old student from Stella Maris Veronica Cal. She died on Wednesday morning from what looked like a case of meningitis. Well, the post mortem was done today and it has been confirmed. We spoke to her father Mario Cal today and he told us that it all started last Thursday night when she first vomited. Veronica suffered throughout the weekend - not being able to eat or much less hold down any fluids. Cal told us that they gave her Tylenol to try and ease the symptoms but it only got worse. That is when they rushed Veronica to the emergency room at the KHMH on Sunday afternoon. While the family had hopes for her to recover, Veronica died on Wednesday morning at 9:08. Now the family is left with more questions than answers as to why their child died. Mario Cal, Father of Veronica Cal "So early in the morning Wednesday, because I can't sleep the whole night but I have my phone beside me. I think when I looked at the sofa, I think I fell asleep right there. When I heard my phone ringing, I hurriedly answered it 'what?' The person said, 'the baby is dying the machine went down'. What I said ill hurry call my son and things like that and hurry send my son. I hurriedly took a shower then went. When I arrived, the baby came back. But you know, I stayed right there, they didn't let us go in and see the baby. I saw the doctor rushing, and about 5 minutes after that same thing again. They tried to fight for her life again but it didn't come back."

DJ Usher's Criminal Complaint Heard By Police Higher Up's
The issue concerning the frightening confrontation between Edison Usher and another man at the Romy Badillo fundraising event is still ongoing. At this point, police are looking for Shadir Marin in connection with this incident and when he is brought in he will be charged. For context, Usher came to our studios a week ago and told us that Marin pointed a gun at his face at the event. Usher told us that he was only trying to deter Marin from driving over the cables and wires as he was setting up his DJ system but Marin took it to another level. We will keep following this story.

Disgruntled "BRN" Resident Ask Opposition To Rethink Major Lloyd Jones' Endorsement
Retired Major Lloyd Jones... He was recently announced as PUP's replacement in Belize Rural North after 7 months without a standard bearer in that constituency. But, it appears that he's been met with some resistance in the communities he is expected to win over. Today, our newsroom was emailed a press release from a nameless, faceless individual who purports to speak on behalf of the voters of Belize Rural North. It is unsigned, and there is the very high possibility that it is only political mischief. But, on the off-chance that it isn't, the release says, quote: "We the people of Belize Rural North are very sad and disgruntled over the fact that the Hon. Francis Fonseca, Leader of the Opposition and our beloved People's United Party, has said to us, indirectly, that we are foolish, dumb and not civilized. He calls the Prime Minister, Hon Dean Barrow a dictator when he himself, Hon. Francis Fonseca, is acting like one. He is not in power and look what he is doing and treating us the people and loyal supporters of the PUP."

The Governor General To Visit Taiwan
Belize's Head of State, the Governor-General, Sir Colville Young, will be visiting the Republic of China (Taiwan), from 10th May to 15th May 2015. During the Governor-General's visit, the Government of Taiwan will launch the publication of Chinese translation of Sir Colville's book of short stories entitled "Pataki Full". It is believed that this translation marks the first time that a book by a Caricom writer will be translated into Chinese. As such, this is a historic occasion and marks a notable strengthening of the ties of culture and friendship between the Republic of China (Taiwan) and Belize. During Sir Colville's absence from the country, H.E. Mr James Murphy will be acting as Governor-General of Belize.

Meet UWI Open Campus Head: Dr. Luz Longsworth
Viewers may know very well about the University of the West Indies Open Campus. It is an innovative tertiary level institution in which students from all over the Caribbean pursue higher level education via the internet and a computer. They have access to the ease of lessons, video teleconferencing with professors, and tailored studies to meet their needs, all without the requirement of having to fly to the school's headquarters, and having to go into classes if the student does not want. Well, the newest Acting Principal and Pro Vice-Chancellor of this institution is Dr. Luz Longsworth. She's Caribbean national whose parents lived and worked in Belize for many years. She comes highly qualified after generating over 25 years of experience in both academia and business in Belize, Jamaica and the British Virgin Islands. This morning, she organized at meet and greet with the press of all the different territories, where there are branches of the Open Campos, including Belize. The site head told us today about the importance such an exercise:

There's Now A Red Cross Android App
You don't have to be a doctor or a certified therapist to deal with an epileptic seizure or even a heart attack, you can simply download the new First Aid By Belize Red Cross App on your phone to find out what to do in these critical situations. Although you won't be able to operate on anyone or prescribe medication, this app offers useful techniques and responses to a number of emergencies. Today in celebration of World Red Cross Day, the Belize Red Cross launched this new app at the Battlefield Park and the field officer told us how this app can save a life. Terence Woodye, Field Officer, Belize Red Cross "What this app does, it serves as a complementary to the first aid class we teach at the office. The app gives you as an individual better confidence when there's an accident or emergency. You can access this app on your phone anywhere. If you're traveling, commuting on a bus, or when you have your free time, you go and access the app as it tells you what to do in cases like burns, if someone is unconscious, how to care for someone that is choking, bleeding etc. This involves the same steps we do in our first aid class but what this app gives you as well is that confidence. It is also universal as it gives you videos and graphics that even kids can follow since they have tablets these days. It could be downloaded on iPhone, androids, smart phones and tablets.

Intelligent Art Discovery
Last night we reported on the multifarious art exhibit at the Image Factory entitled "Culture Uncovered". Well, there is another upcoming art exhibit that caters to that diversity: it's the National Festival of Arts Showcase Exhibit and the theme for this year is "Intelligent Art". Artists from all over the country are invited to submit their works in whatever form they choose. We spoke with the coordinator of the event, Rachael Heusner today and she told us about the significance of this year's theme. Rachael Heusner, Coordinator "Well, we're sending out the call because we want people to be interested and to produce work along the lines of intelligent art. And you might ask why, yea why intelligent art. Well because many people think art is just pretty pictures that you put on a wall. So we're trying to help people to appreciate that art could go to another level, you know. Art is something that can teach us, it can tell us a story, it teaches design. You know, there's so many that's used in advertising so we want young people to think a little bit outside the box. A little bit further and teach us something with your drawings and paintings or whatever it is that you want to produce. When it comes to art, somebody might put a dot on a piece of paper and say well that's art, that's intelligent art. But you know, just, something might be beautifully executed, it might be a drawing of a shoe, but it's done to a nice level. So the whole thing is, it's so broad, I'm sure that we're not going to have that much rejections but we're just trying to force the artist to think a little deeper. To think 'how can my art educate someone else?'."

Mr. Program's Tribute To Mothers
Belizean Artist, Mr. Program hasn't been featured on our newscast since 2 years ago when he delivered his latest musical single at the time which was called, "Tek It Easy". Before that, he hadn't been in the news since 4 years since his rise on the local music scene with the popular song, "See I Rise". But, he's back tonight, and he's asking for the love of the mothers in the Mother's Day season to launch his latest musical creation. He dropped by our office to tell us about it: The video is available on Youtube.

Channel 5

Woman Freed of Murder After 4 Years Behind Bars
Almost four years ago, then forty-eight year old Lucilla Bartley, a single mother of two, was charged for the murder of her ex-boyfriend, Osborne Gordon, and remanded to the Belize [...]

Belize City Resident Charged for OW Murder
Twenty-year-old Kashief Bevans was arraigned in the Orange Walk Magistrates Court this morning on a single count of murder.� His indictment follows the shooting death of eighteen-year-old Derrick Romero who [...]

16 Year Old Roaring Creek Resident Arraigned for Agric Murder
There is another arrest regarding a murder last weekend. A sixteen year old minor from Roaring Creek is tonight spending his first night behind bars following his arraignment for the [...]

Radar Down at the National Met Service
If you've visited the Belize Met Service website anytime in the past six months, you've likely seen the words - RADAR IMAGE NOT AVAILABLE - with an explanation that the [...]

Below Normal Activity Expected for 2015 Hurricane Season
Earlier we told you about the Met Service's radar which is down, and has been down since last year October. But even so, the Met Service is doing its thing, [...]

All 4 Accused in Theft at Treasury Receive Bail
David Enriquez, Francis Palacio, Hassan Palacio and Octaviana Lopez…Police believe all four are involved in the bold theft of half a million dollars from the government treasury. Enriquez, charged with [...]

General Manager of La Inmaculada Credit Union Suspended
Today, the Board of Directors of the La Inmaculada Credit Union issued a release on an internal investigation taking place at that institution. That investigation has been common knowledge for [...]

David Akierman, Outgoing Exec. Chair of Corozal Commercial Free Zone
There is word of a major shake up at the Corozal Commercial Free Zone. U.D.P. stalwart, David Akierman, is being removed as Executive Chairman of the zone; a job he [...]

Honduran Man Charged for Attempted Murder of Security Guard
A Honduran national has been charged for the shooting of a Security Guard working at a Chinese restaurant.� After two days of investigations, police believe they know who shot Victor [...]

B.N.T.U. Clarifies - Petrocaribe Was Not Used for Salary Adjustments
The ongoing Petrocaribe rollout is proving to be the most controversial undertaking of the Barrow administration.� Depending on who you ask, the program is a redeeming feature which has seen [...]

Union Disagrees With How Petrocaribe Loans Act Was Passed
While Palacio says that there may not be a problem with the rollout of the funds, the subject of constant disagreement is the manner in which the Petrocaribe Loans Act [...]

2013 National Child Activity Survey Report - Key Facts and Figures
Today at the Jaguar Auditorium of the University of Belize, Belmopan Campus, the Statistical Institute of Belize and the International Labour Organization officially launched the findings and final report of [...]

Belizean Professor, Doctor Luz Longsworth, Assumes Principalship of UWI Open Campus
Since the beginning of May, there have been two major changes in the administration of the University of the West Indies.� Senior management changes, including the promotion of Professor V. [...]

�Changes Took Effect May First
Professor Barriteau's move to the Cave Hill Campus comes as incumbent Sir Hilary Beckles transitions to his new position as Vice Chancellor of the university.� That change also came into [...]

The Best of 2 of the Premier League of Belize
The Premier League of Belize is now in finals battling the best of a two game series. On Thursday night in Belmopan, the Belmopan Bandits and Verdes FC played a [...]

PlusTV

Ramon Cervantes and Gaspar Vega headed to trial in July
The lawsuit for slander of the character of Deputy Prime Minister Gaspar Vega is headed to trial in July, and Vega himself will take the Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin has disallowed an application by counsel for Gaspar Vega, Senior Counsel Rodwell Williams, to amend the statement of claim to reflec...

Police update on Cervantes murder suspect
And while the Deputy Prime Minister returns to court in two months for the case brought against Ramon Cervantes Jr. after he aired on live radio a voice recording accusing Gaspar Vega of orchestrating the murder of Ramon Cervantes Srthe voice behind the sensational accusations, 37 year old Manuel...

Update on Orange Walk murder of Derrick Romero
There is also an update on the Orange Walk murder which we reported in yesterday's newscast. A broad daylight shooting claimed the life of 18 year old Derrick Romero, of Settee River Street, Louisiana Area, Orange Walk Town...

Persons arrested for robberies in Dangriga
Two persons have been remanded to Hattieville prison in connection to two robberies which occurred in Dangriga. Correspondent Harry Arzu reports.

Said Musa not ready to leave politics
The Right Honorable Said Musa, now 71 years of age, is in his seventh term of office as area representative for the Fort George division in the House of Representatives and will seek an eighth term in the upcoming general elections...

Orange Walk Police Under investigation For Abuse of Auhority
A few weeks ago a couple of police officers attached to the Orange Walk Police Station got in trouble with the law when a video that went viral captured them at the residence of Andres Rodriguez beating him up...

Young artists exhibit at Image Factory
Art is considered part of a nation’s culture...

Helpage honouring senior mothers]
The 10th day of May is internationally recognized as Mother’s Day. An entire day dedicated to all the wonderful women without whom we wouldn’t be in this world today. Help age Belmopan saw the importance of celebrating their senior mothers at this morning’s senior session. Evan Dakers - Chairm...

Security guard shot during robbery attempt
Police areseeking one person from the Taylor’s Alley area in Belize City in connection with the robbery of New Asia Restaurant on Vernon Street in Belize City just before 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday...

Minor Murdered Brown
One person was charged today for the murder of 24 year old Dernell Brown but we will refrain from using his name because he happens to be a �minor...

Three men flee from cops leaving behind firearm
Early this morning, police were patrolling on Dean Street heading in the direction of Euphrates Avenue their attention was drawn to three male persons walking on Dean Street almost at the corner of Euphrates Avenue...

Drugs found in Guinea Grass
On Wednesday May 6, police found 19 pounds of Marihuana in Guinea Grass Village. Police say they visited an area about 2 miles out of Guinea Grass Village where they found a white sack containing 16 parcels inside amounting to 19 lbs or 8,618 grams...

Albert Division contenders trade barbs ahead of endorsement
Tomorrow, Friday, May 8, United Democratic Party (UDP) candidate for the Albert division and former CEO in the Ministry of Tourism and Culture Tracey Taegar-Panton will be endorsed during a Mother’s Day event at the House of Culture...

Burrell Boom man remanded for sex charge
Burrell Boom resident Jamil Seguro is accused of fondling a teenager’s private area while she was bathing in the Belize Old River at Burrell Boom on April 23. Today he appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann-Marie Smith and pleaded not guilty to a charge of sexual assault of the 13 year old...

Amandala

Cop attempted to sodomize victim, 19?
Ombudsman Lionel Arzu told Amandala today that he has never before received a report of police brutality in which the police have been accused of attempted sodomy against the victim. The allegation which has come to the fore from Victor Daniel Howe, 19, seems to be unprecedented. Howe claims that a detachment of about 8 law enforcement officers-who the teenager said were dressed in green uniforms and who appeared to have been drinking-brutalized him and stood by laughing as one of their team members made a move to sodomize him in the Benque area. Like the Ombudsman, Ret'd. Colonel George Lovell, the Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of National Security, was deeply troubled by the allegation and both men have undertaken to look into the matter.

Suspected meningitis at Stella Maris School
Despite assurances from officials of the Ministry of Health, concerns are being raised regarding the recent death of a young student of Stella Maris School in Belize City who was reportedly diagnosed with "presumptive meningitis" prior to her death. Amandala understands that the child, Veronica Cal, 5, of Hunter's Lane in Belize City, died this past Monday, May 4, while receiving treatment at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH), three days after being stricken with the condition, which, we are told, quickly deteriorated and led to her passing. Her father, Mario Cal, told the media today that it started with vomiting, which led to a fever, and later to other complications.

Mopan Tech teacher fired for homosexual advances to students
A male teacher from the Mopan Technical High School in Benque Viejo Town, Cayo District, has been fired for allegedly making sexual advances to several male students via social media. The allegations surfaced in late February of this year, at which time the said teacher was placed on suspension while the Ministry of Education carried out an investigation. After analyzing the case, the Teaching Services Commission (TSC) reportedly sent the male teacher - whose name we cannot call since he has not yet been charged by police - a letter of termination over the past weekend and effectively banned him from the Mopan Technical High School. Officials from the Ministry of Education have also indicated that the Chief Education Officer has revoked his teacher's license.

Boat captain, Romaldo "Romi" Badillo, Sr., succumbs
Veteran seaman and boat captain, Romaldo "Romi" Badillo, Sr., 59, of Belize City, who had been fighting for his life at a hospital in Guatemala after he suffered massive burns to about 60 percent of his body, died this morning at the hospital, almost a month after the boat in which he had been travelling exploded. The sad news of his passing was confirmed by his family this morning. The grieving family said that they will make further comments on the death and provide other pertinent information at a later date, and declined to say more this morning. At about 1:00 Holy Thursday afternoon, at "the Hangar" dock near the Belize City Airport, there was an explosion aboard a boat in which Captain Romi, as he was popularly known, and three other men - who were going to Saint George's Caye to carry supplies for the Easter vacation - were traveling. One of the three men was Stephen Bradley, the owner of the boat, and the other two were Wallace Flowers and George Gonzalez.


Well-known educator, trade unionist, and humanitarian, Mrs. Eloisa Santos Trujeque, 77, who had been ailing for the past 6 months, passed away while receiving medical treatment for pneumonia at the Belize Healthcare Partners hospital yesterday, Wednesday. The eldest child of a family of 9, Trujeque was born on West Street in the Mesopotamia area of Belize City in 1938 and grew up to be an instrumental part of her church and her community during her life. She was well-respected, and had been involved with St. Ignatius Parish since her youth and later joined two local missionary groups who offered spiritual support to their community and country. Trujeque started her teaching career at St. Ignatius Primary School on southside Belize City in 1967, where she served as principal from 1968 to 1993.

Shotgunned victim, 6, dies after being taken off life support
After an agonizing five days on life support at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) in Belize City, Travis Polanco, 6, who was unfortunately shot in the head with a 16-gauge shotgun by another minor last Thursday, April 30, succumbed to his injuries at about 10:30 a.m. today. Initial reports were that Polanco and his young neighbor - who police said is actually 11 and not 9 years old as was previously reported - were playing near a palm tree about 50 feet away from Polanco's house at the Valley Community on the Hummingbird Highway in the Stann Creek District when the 11-year-old boy suddenly went into his house, retrieved his father's licensed Harrington and Richardson shotgun from a room, pointed it through his window and allegedly shot the 6-year old student, who was reportedly standing about 5 feet from the street.

Women Cross Country Classic is next Sunday, May 17
The 26th Annual Women Cross Country Cycling Classic for 2015 is scheduled to take place next Sunday, May 17, starting at 8:00 a.m. from Queen Elizabeth Park in San Ignacio and "tentatively finish at BTL Park" on Princess Margaret Drive in Belize City, a distance of approximately 73 miles. The Cycling Federation says it is "still soliciting sponsorship for the event, finishing prizes and station prizes. If you would like to contribute, please feel free to contact us by calling either of the following individuals: Orson Butler - 602-1390; Leticia Westby - 625-8173." Defending champion is 5-time winner, Shalini Zabaneh; while the record of 3:07:29, set by Mexican Brenda Aguayo in 2007, still stands. Strong contenders are expected to include 2012 Women Cross Country champion Kaya Cattouse; 2015 Krem Classic winner Alicia Thompson; and young Patricia Chavarria, who has 2nd in the 2014 Women Cross Country.

Farewell to my Islanders teammate, Romaldo "Romy" Badillo
We received the heartbreaking news late this morning of the passing of Romaldo "Romy" Badillo, a Belizean gem, football fan nonpareil, and my former teammate on the Islanders football team of Caye Caulker, way back in the early 1970's (1974-75 season). Romy, a retired Fisheries Officer and then tour guide/boat captain, was seriously injured in a boating accident a few weeks ago and was undergoing treatment for severe burns in a hospital in Guatemala. Our sincere condolences to his wife, Anna; his brother, Amado, another past football teammate; and his other family members, relatives and friends. R.I.P. brother Romaldo "Romy" Badillo.

Devin Daly visits the Jewel
Belizean basketballer, Devin Daly, 20, who attends Lake Superior State University (LSSU) in Michigan, USA, is presently in the country to conduct practical biology work as part of his course in Conservation Biology at the notable public university. The graduate of St. John's College departed Belize 3 years ago on a full basketball scholarship at LSSU, where he majors in Conservation Biology and minors in Fish Stock Management, while playing point guard on the school's basketball team, which is known as the LSSU Lakers. That team has notably won 2 state championships with the assistance of Daly, who has stepped up his game to the point of earning the title of the team's 6th man. The promising young "baller," who is now in his 3rd year at the university, spoke with KREM News today after he delivered a motivational talk to students at the Belize High School, and he expounded on how it feels to be back home and ensuring that he continues to give back to his community, while he does school work.

Cricket Corner: Excellence will continue
Over the weekend in the Harrison Parks Cricket Competition 2015 under the auspices of the Belize National Cricket Association, only two games were played due to inclement weather. In Zone One, Police damaged Bright Star, 216 to 77. For Police, Llewellyn "Luggy" Sutherland and Sylbert Martinez top scored with 40 runs each; and Austin Gillett and Annal Kanaujia took 3 wickets each. For Bright Star, Andy Dominguez scored 17 and took 3 wickets. Excelsior won by default over Excellence, who did not show up. In Zone Two, Wicked Eleven won over Sunrise, 166 to 74. For Wicked Eleven, Travis Robinson scored 49, while Darwin Rhaburn and Walter Flowers took 4 wkts each. For Sunrise, Jermaine Baizar scored 12 runs, and Garreth Joseph took 3 wkts.

Belizean cyclists sweep Cedral Classic 2015 in Cozumel, Mexico
A contingent of 8 Belizean cyclists travelled to Cozumel, Mexico, over the weekend, and returned triumphant, after sweeping the top prizes in all categories of the Cedral Classic 2015 road race. The Elite/Masters "A" and U-23 road race was 60 miles long, and 1st place was taken by Brandon Cattouse, with 2nd place going to Byron Pope, and Phillip Leslie took the 5th position. For the U-23 category of the same race, 1st was Giovanni Lovell and 2nd Delawn Abraham. In the Masters "B" race, which travelled 45 miles, Belize was again dominant, as Ray Cattouse took 1st place, while Isaiah Willacey settled for 4th place. And in the 35 mile long Female race, Belize's only participant, Kaya Cattouse took 1st place over Mexicans Laura Rodriguez of Merida, who was 2nd, Fabiola Rodriguez of Cozumel in 3rd, and Aracely Cervantes, also of Cozumel, in 4th place.

Petrocaribe, PUP, and the ICJ
The activist Ya Ya Marin Coleman recently pointed out on her Sunday Review show on KREM Radio/TV that what worries her about the Petrocaribe moneys are the implications for the International Court of Justice (ICJ) matter. The ruling United Democratic Party (UDP), which has increased its electoral popularity with the Petrocaribe windfall, is on record as being in full support of the "yes" vote in a referendum for Belize to submit Belize's differendum with Guatemala to a panel of ICJ judges. The ruling of the ICJ would theoretically be binding on both Belize and Guatemala, which claims half of Belize in the aftermath of a dispute with Great Britain which began in the colonial days of the nineteenth century. At a Monday morning press briefing this week to announce his candidacy as the People's United Party (PUP) standard bearer for the Belize Rural North constituency, Major Lloyd Jones (Ret'd) reiterated a position he has been expressing on air and in print for years - that the time for appeasement with Guatemala is over and that under no circumstances should Belize go to the ICJ. The fact that Major Jones was saying this at Independence Hall in the presence of PUP leadership, made the statement stunning.

From the Publisher
Over the long holiday weekend I was channel hopping on cable television and happened upon a Western called The Tall Men, starring Clark Gable, Robert Ryan and Jane Russell. The movie had already started when I caught it. There were a couple story lines which seemed far-fetched, but the camera work was good and the action was moving along. I ended up watching the movie to its conclusion. Near the end of the movie these guys have been driving a herd of cattle, about 5,000 head or so, to Montana all the way from Texas, and just about the last obstacle on their long journey is an ambush by a large group of Sioux Indians. I could not believe that I found myself wishing for the stars to get past the faceless, villainous Native Americans. What I'm saying is this is how the movie portrayed the Sioux, who are fighting for their own territorial rights. This is the power of the filmmaker's art. The filmmaker gets you to identify and sympathize with those whom he chooses to project heroically, and whomever he chooses to be the bad guy(s) will be the one(s) you and I, as the audience, will see in that light.

Letter to the Editor: Engineers need to invoke the law
Dear Editor, When a doctor fails, a person dies. When an engineer fails many people die. This in mind, allow me to say that it was encouraging to read the press release issued jointly by the Association of Professional Engineers of Belize (APEB) and the Association of Professional Architects of Belize (APAB) published in the Amandala newspaper of April 26, 2015. Infrastructure is critical to the development of a country. It is the linchpin that secures a nation's ability to generate wealth. All-weather roads, good bridges, a resilient electrical network and safe structures are all necessary infrastructure that will help Belize develop into a more productive nation. However, those infrastructures, when not properly designed, constructed and maintained, may become a source of endangerment if they fail. The result may be injury or death to the unsuspecting public.

Electricity rates to dip to lowest rate in over a decade
The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) yesterday announced its initial decision to reduce electricity rates by 15.24% - a reduction which would see electricity rates fall to 35 cents per kilowatt-hour, the lowest in over a decade. Back in October 2004, when the Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) was privately owned and operated, the company proposed an increase in tariffs of 3 cents per kilowatt-hour, amounting to about 10%, bringing to an end a long streak of falling electricity rates, which the company said had lasted since 1984. Since then, electricity rates have been fluctuating, but they have been on a general downward trend since the 16.87% rate hike was imposed in January 2013.

PUP seeks court order for 13th Senator
The Leader of the Opposition, the People's United Party (PUP), Hon. Francis Fonseca, through his attorney Eamon Courtenay, S.C., filed an application at the Supreme Court today, seeking an order for Prime Minister Dean Barrow to bring into force the provisions of the March 2010 Sixth Constitutional Amendment enabling the appointment of a 13th senator. The announcement was made this morning at the PUP's Independence Hall headquarters, where Fonseca and Courtenay held a press briefing. In the fixed date claim, Dean O. Barrow is named as the first defendant and the Attorney General as the second defendant. Late this evening, Government responded to the PUP's claim via a press release, which lamented, "That senator would be chosen by the non-government organizations, and would result in taking away the Government's majority in the Senate. In turn that would mean that the Opposition, with the support of the 13th Senator and others, would be able to frustrate Government's legislative agenda and delay or completely derail (even urgent) Bills."

Bolton Bank on the auction block
A virtually pristine expanse of real estate west of the Haulover Creek is being put on the auction block next month in what the seller describes as the first ultra-luxury Caribbean basin real estate auction. Whereas the property is being promoted as a "prime area for resort hotel, residential and commercial development site� suitable for a city/airport/eco-hotel conference complex, world-class casino, and championship golf course," the Government officials we checked with say they know nothing of the plan. Today, Amandala received a press release from Avalon Partners Ltd. in cooperation with Premiere Estates Auction Company announcing that on June 18, it will auction Bolton Bank in Belize along with a second property in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The property is located on the unpopulated side of the Haulover Creek, on the other side of the river, on the route to Belize City from the Philip Goldson International Airport.

Pat Cacho's generosity helps provide a home for Destiny's children
Destiny Daycare and Preschool, which is managed by two vibrant and dedicated sisters: Laurel and Yadira Diego, opened its doors on September 1, 2008 with six children. Today its enrollment has increased to thirty-six children, ages two months to four years. The Diego sisters come from a family of entrepreneurs. Their father, Melvin Diego (Melly), is famous for having the best homemade ice cream in Dangriga, and their mother, Laura Diego (Tun), has been known for her delicious pastries. Despite their many challenges, the Diego sisters have managed to keep things together, while focusing on their mission to provide the best possible early childhood education to each of the children in their care. A few years ago, Destiny was faced with an unexpected eviction from its first location on Isla Road in Dangriga. This experience motivated them to seek funding to purchase their own school. Cornelius Patrick "Pat" Cacho and his wife Leonie saw their appearance on Belize Watch on a trip home to Belize from the USA.

US teacher gets 15 yrs for seducing BZ minors via Facebook
David Wendel Thompson, who was nabbed by US law enforcement authorities in Miami while trying to fly to Belize, has been sentenced to 15 years in Florida, USA, after having pleaded guilty to enticing two Belizean minors, ages 13 and 15, via Facebook. He had apparently been in contact with the Belizean girls between December 2013 and February 2014. He took a flight to Belize on March 14, 2014, but was denied entry when he got here, and US law enforcement personnel arrested him when he returned to Miami. When US law enforcement searched his checked bag, they reportedly found condoms, a drug for erectile dysfunction, two brand new computer tablets (said to be gifts for the minors) and fliers for a hotel in Belize.

Posted By: Marty Re: Today's Belize News: May 9, 2015 - 05/09/15 11:38 AM

The Reporter

Analyzing child labour in Belize
The Statistical Institute of Belize SIB), this week, released the results of its National Child Activity Survey 2013. The launch, done jointly by the SIB, Labour Department and the International Labour Organization (ILO), was held at the Jaguar Auditorium, University of Belize, Belmopan Campus. The […]

CARICOM discusses its future
Several international organizations gathered in Trinidad and Tobago this week for the “Forum on the future of the Caribbean.” The three-day conference, which began on Tuesday, was hosted by the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus. The conference gathered representatives from the University […]

High school teacher dismissed for unbecoming behaviour
The Teaching Services Commission has dismissed Elito Puc, a teacher from Mopan Technical High School in Benque Viejo Town after it has investigated and is satisfied that an accusation made against Puc in February bore sufficient evidence of inappropriate behaviour towards a male student using […]

Oceana joining hands across the sand
Oceana in Belize is calling on all supporters of protecting Belize’s natural resources to join in on its upcoming “Hands Across the Sand” initiative. The initiative, a symbolic joining of hands at 10 locations simultaneously, will be held on Saturday, May 16 at noon. Amelita […]

Ground breaking for new rudimentary water system takes place in Santa Anna Village
The� government has pledged to expand� and� upgrade� the� Santa� Anna Village� rudimentary� water� system in the Toledo� District. A ground-breaking�ceremony will take place on Friday afternoon to mark the initial phase of the project, which is said to cost $762,110. through� a� loan� from� […]

Corrigendum
In the Sunday May 10th issue of The Reporter in the article titled “PetroCaribe spending on ASUS tablets not adding up” located on page three we made an error and now correct that error. In the third paragraph where it reads, “This represents $348,000 more than what the government reported […]

Fatal Stabbing at Agric. Show
A stabbing incident at the Agriculture and Trade Show ended in death, after 24-year-old Dernell Brown of Hattieville was stabbed in the head creatimg a wound that killed him. Police say Brown got into a dispute with a group of men over a woman.. The men in the group had […]

Second taxi driver killed in less than a week in San Pedro
A taxi driver, Donicio Trujillo, was found stabbed to death on a feeder road on the outskirts of San Pedro Town, making him the second taxi operator to be brutally murdered in less than a week on Ambergris Caye. Trujillo's body was found on […]

American tourist dies in diving incident
A 64-year-old American tourist on a diving expedition to Silk Caye off the coast of Placencia died on Monday after he started experiencing problems underwater. David Reed Rowley was pronounced dead at around 1 p.m. Wednesday after he didn't respond to CPR. The dive […]

Three New Ambassadors to Belize
Governor General Sir Colville Young welcomed three new ambassadors to the country on Monday at Belize House in Belmopan. Each ambassador presented his respective letter of credence to the Governor General and expressed pleasure to be serving in Belize. The new diplomats areEl Salvador, […]

PUP introduces Major Lloyd Jones in BRN
Retired Major Lloyd Jones is the People's United Party's (PUP) standard bearer in the Belize Rural North constituency, replacing Arthur Saldivar, who was removed after an executive vote a few months ago, following character complaints against him. Jones, former Ports Commissioner for six years […]

A new financing network for Agriculture and Development
The Executive Board of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) recently approved a new Sovereign Borrowing Framework, an innovative financial policy tool, to meet the increased need for investing in the Fund's agricultural development projects. "This framework provides the means to leverage additional funding for our work in remote […]

Lower light bills for all
The Public Utilities Commission announced on Monday that it has recommended a cut of 15 percent in electricity rates, down from 41 cents a kilowatt-hour to 35 cents. PUC Chairman, John Avery said: "This … rate will cover their cost for next year and […]

Tampa Teacher gets 15 years for pursuing virgin sex
An American teacher in Florida arrested last year for attempting to seduce two Belizean teenage girls, has been sentenced to 15-years in kail after pleading guilty to a federal charge of online enticement of children. At his sentencing, David Wendel Thompson, the Tampa, school […]

Governor General and others to visit Taiwan
Several notable Belizeans, including the Governor-General Sir Colville Young, Minister of Energy, Science, Technology and Public Utilities Joy Grant, Chief Executive Officer in that ministry Dr. Colin Young, President of the University of Belize Dr. Alan Slusher and Senator Audrey Matura-Shepherd will travel to […]

Restore Belize offers Conflict Mediation training to more high schools
To address Belize's increasing high school drop-out rate, Restore Belize will offer its conflict mediation training program to more high schools in the country, according to the organization's director, Mary Vasquez. Vasquez explained this week that the organization resolved to reach out to the high […]

Bird Flu losses mount! 600,000 birds destroyed so far.
While poultry farmers continue to suffer massive losses due to an outbreak of bird flu, the Belize Poultry Association says it is resisting the temptation to increase prices. But losses are mounting and Ministry of Health officials estimate than more than 600,000 birds have had […]

PetroCaribe spending on ASUS tablets not adding up
A recent document released by the Government of Belize to detail PetroCaribe spending has the total cost of the Asus tablets distributed to tertiary level students listed at $2 million flat. However, in February Financial Secretary Joseph Waight told The Reporter that figure was […]

Editorial
Leader of the Opposition Mr. Francis Fonseca announced this week that the People's United Party will not go along with the government's plan to take the Belize-Guatemala dispute to the International Court of Justice. The reasons for not doing so put forward by his legal counsel, Mr. Eamon Courtenay boil […]

PUP invokes court action to force naming of 13th senator
Leader of the People's United Party, Francis Fonseca will take on Prime Minister Dean Barrow in the Supreme Court over the appointment of a 13th senator to represent non government organizations. A Bill authorizing the Government to appoint a 13th senator was passed as […]

PUP says "NO" to ICJ
The People's United Party formally announced this week that it will not support taking the territorial dispute with Guatemala to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). At a press conference on Wednesday at the party's Queen Street headquarters, PUP Leader Francis Fonseca said his party […]

Orange Walk records another murder
Derrick Romero, an 18 year-old unemployed resident of Orange Walk Town was shot dead shortly before 10:30 on Wednesday inside hissyard at #5 Sittee River Street. The gunman walked in plain view of three other people, asked for Romero by name and then emptied a […]

Sudden death spurs menningitis investigation
Health personnel and family members are hoping that a post-mortem examination scheduled for Friday at 9 a.m. will provide some answers in the death of 5 year old student Veronica Cal. The child, who had hearing and speech impediments attended the Stella Maris School in Belize City. She became ill […]

The Belize Times

Barrow's Law Must Go!! - PUP Takes to the Streets
A loud and fiery group of about 400 supporters of the People's United Party led by Party Leader Hon. Francis Fonseca protested in front of the Best Western Biltmore Plaza Hotel on the Phillip Goldson Highway, as the arrogant Prime Minister Dean Barrow was hosting a press conference this morning. The crowd marched for over two hours, despite the humidity and sweltering heat, holding placards, chanting to the beat of Garifuna drums, and demanding that the Prime Minister repeals the Petrocaribe Loan Act which has stirred up major controversy. "Barrow Law, hav fu go!!" shouted a single parent mother from the Collet Division, who says she doesn't know whether she will be able to afford school fees for her three children in the upcoming school year. "I barely cuda mi pay fi my child's four CXCs", she said, "Petrocaribe di full up dem UDP pocket, but ih noh di do nothing fi my family", she added.

A Nation Terrorized by Crime
The Belize Youth Movement is calling on the Ministry of National Security to demonstrate appropriate concern and proper leadership and response at what have been extremely violent weeks in the country. There have been 44 cold-blooded murders and dozens more near fatal shootings in the four early months of 2015. Almost half (20 killings) of those homicides have occurred in Belize City and the majority of them involve gun violence and gang violence. April has been the bloodiest month with 16 murders so far. While our communities, in particular Belize City neighbourhoods are terrorized by gun violence, our society is fast losing precious lives. 2015 is well underway to being another very bloody year.

Rats Occupy Western Regional Hospital Kitchen!
When the Western Regional Hospital mixed up new-borns and made a grieving Belmopan family to bury the wrong child and an investigation into the matter discovered cats living in the morgue in June 2013, we thought it couldn't get worst. But this week, a shocking Channel 5 report exposed that diseased rats had infested the hospital's kitchen. The video evidence of the infestation was appalling and scandalous. Rats of all sizes running around in the kitchen area, throughout the food stock and cooking utensils. The room was also in a decrepit state. It had filthy floors, the ceiling was falling apart and the walls were dirty. It was in perfect condition for a rat motel, but not for a hospital kitchen area. Like in June 2013, the hospital management was found to be grossly incompetent. The Regional Manager, Melinda Guerra, who a few months ago was wrapped up in sheets of controversy over missing monies at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, blamed everyone else but her lack of proper .

Think About It
The Leader of the Opposition was a guest on the Krem morning radio and TV show with hosts Mose Hyde and India Camela. It was informative and it again gave Belizeans an insight into the man who will be the next Prime Minister. Francis is one of us. He is a Belizean man born to humble folks whose contribution we can easily embrace. His mom, the popular "Miss Molly" was a stalwart of her church and community and equally so in her dedication to her family and to her two children. Francis' father was a teacher and education official rising to the highest rank in his profession. Francis grew up in a loving and disciplined home where Christian values and service to fellow human beings were paramount. His dad was a teacher throughout the length and breadth of the country and this too would have helped to mold the mind and character of the young Francis. Listening to Francis, one sees and hears the father. Francis is genuine. He readily explains his views rather than seeking to impress or score points. He is too sincere in his beliefs for that. What was equally impressive, as India commented, was the passion with which Francis expressed his vision and commitment to change Belize for the betterment of Belizeans.

REID BETWEEN THE LINES - The real difference between 2005 and 2015
In his Editorial of last week, dated April 26, 2015, Amandala publisher Evan X Hyde drew inferences from and pointed to a few difference between conditions of 2005 and 2015. The Publisher pointed to key areas that might explain why, in 2005 the people felt compelled to take to the streets in protest while in 2015, despite underbelly rumblings, the natives remain passive. This is a phenomenon ripe for analysis and rife with complex entanglements. Before I continue, I must explain that I am writing this on no one's behalf. Nobody tells me what to write and what not to write. At those times when someone would suggest that maybe I should write about this or about that, even if I had intended to, I will usually switch topics and go in a different direction. It might well be silly and not financially astute, but it is what it is and I am who I am. I find it important to say this because my articles are published in the BELIZE TIMES, and while I don't see X Hyde right now as a friend of the PUP, they certainly don't need him as an enemy. The man is prolific and proficient in his writings and wields a lethal pen. Blame me don't blame the PUP.

Defiant Tyrant
Six weeks ago, on Friday 27th March 2015, during the night around 7:30pm the Prime Minister rushed through the House of Representative a new law called the Petro Caribe Loan Act. It is the only law of its kind in the world. Nowhere among the 198 members of the United Nations, not even in twisted democracies or outright dictatorship is there such a law. It is the only one of its kind. Over the six weeks that Mr. Barrow did this dastardly deed the ordinary citizen in the street and at the workplace has begun to get a clear understanding of how slimy is the law. The law covers criminal activity committed by the Prime Minister from September 2012 to March 2015 when he took out of the Petrocaribe monies on 78 different occasions, millions amounting to a total of 286 million dollars. There has been no accounting. The law covers illegalities and irregularities of Mr. Barrow in taking out these large amounts of millions without ever getting prior approval from the National Assembly. Both the House of Representatives and the Senate must approve beforehand each of the withdrawals. Not once did Mr. Barrow seek approval. Not once was Mr. Barrow given a single such approval.

Jury acquits man of rape charge
A jury of 6 men and 3 women deliberated for about 2 hours and 15 minutes yesterday in the court of Justice Herbert Lord before it found Brian Smith, 35, not guilty of rape. The jury's verdict was not unanimous. It was in the proportion of 7 to 2. The incident occurred during the day at Smith's residence, located on Berry Street. The complainant, who was a 17 year old high school student at the time, testified that Smith, a close friend of her father, gave her 50 cent to buy noodles while at her father's house. She said that upon returning from the shop where she bought the noodles, Smith who was in his yard told her he wanted to talk to her and he invited her into his apartment. She testified that Smith closed the door when she went into his apartment. She sat on his bed and he began to make sexual advances at her. When she repelled his advances Smith, she said, pushed her on her back and held her hands with one of his hands and tried to take off her � pants. She struggled with him but he was too strong for her and he succeeded in pulling down her pants and underwear, she said.

22 yr. old walks from Murder charge for second time
On Friday evening, May 11, 22 year old John Chessman, beat a second murder rap when a jury of 8 women and 4 men found him not guilty of the murders of Karen Crawford, 19 and Maurice Cadle, 44 in the Court of Justice Adolph Lucas. The jury deliberated for about 4 hours before it arrived at its verdict. Crawford and Cadle were shot and killed around 8p.m. on Thursday, May 29, 2008 in Bermudian Landing. The prosecution had alleged that Chessman and others went to the residence of Emmerson Wade where Crawford, Wade's common-law wife, resided with Cadle. Their motive was, reportedly, to steal drugs and money but other sources say they went to the house carry out a "hit" on Wade.

Francis Petillo charged with Robbery and Damage to property
Francis Petillo, 26, a laborer who had several run-ins with the law in the past was charged with robbery and damage to property when he appeared today in the #2 Magistrate's Court. Petillo pleaded not guilty to the charges. The prosecutor did not object to bail. Senior Magistrate Sharon Fraser offered him a bail of $5,000 and adjourned his case until June 26. The incident occurred around 1:20 a.m. on Monday, April 30. The complainant, Robin Erazo, reported to the police that she was walking on Miller Street when her assailant who was walking, coming from the opposite direction, ripped her Mariner's link gold chain with a rabbit medal design from her neck as he was passing by.

Man, 30, accused of sexual assault on 10 yr. old girl
A 33 year old man, who allegedly committed a sexual assault on a 10 year old girl, was arraigned on a charge of aggravated assault today in the #2 Magistrate's Court. He is Augustine Bejerano, an unemployed of Lord's Bank. Bejerano pleaded not guilty to the charge. The prosecutor objected to bail on the grounds that the offence has become prevalent, that the complainant is of a tender age, that the defendant might interfere with the complainant and that if granted bail the defendant might not appear for trial. When Senior Magistrate Sharon Fraser asked Bejerano to respond to the objection to bail, Bejerano said he did not have anything to say. So senior Magistrate Fraser upheld the objection and remanded Bejerano into custody until June 8.

Zhi Cheng wins Travellers 5-Barrel Veterans' table tennis champ
Zhi Cheng won the 5th Annual 5BARREL Veteran Championships held by the Belize Table Tennis Association at the Belize Elementary School Auditorium on Sunday. The tournament started off with the top 16 veteran table tennis players (over 35 years age) competing in a double elimination format. Cheng defended his title to make it to the finals in the upper division by defeating Siu Pan Chen, Hector Lopez, and Carlos Cui.

Team Face of Belize leads SMART Mundialito
The Face of Belize FC has 2 wins in the 2015 SMART Mundialito U-15 football competition held at the Yabra Green on Saturday. The London Strikers bombed the Ladyville Jaguars 2-0 with goals by Keiffer Perteau and substitute Jose Castellanos. The Young Warriors crushed Third World with 2 goals from Joshawn Flowers and another goal from Jose. Hattieville Youth FC drew 1-1 with Charleston FC; as Christian Caceres scored for Hattieville, and Cion Augustine equalized for Charleston FC. Collet Strikers and Rising Stars drew 0-0.

Belize Bank Bulldogs win softball marathon
The Belize Bank Bulldogs softball women won the 2015 female softball marathon organized by the Belize City Softball Association to launch its 2015 competition tournament at Rogers Stadium on Sunday. The Bulldogs hammered Beacon 5- 1 in the final as Kiri Lizama, Sharette Vernon, Ashley Lucas, Cindy Joseph and Fiona Rivero came home in the 4th inning. The Beacon women collected 5 hits off Bulldogs' pitcher Ashley Lucas, who struck out 4 batters. The Bulldogs diamond made no errors forcing Beacon to leave 2 runners on base and only Mertell Bailey came home for Beacon in the 1st inning

I Was Kicked Off My Volunteered Services by Minister of Culture Because of Politics
Dear Island Residents, I am truly saddened that it has come to this and now I realize that politics plays a very dirty role on how things are ran (manipulated) in this island. I respond to a letter from the management of the San Pedro House of Culture, under the authority of Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr., Minister of Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation. The letter states that I have been relieved of my volunteer services as member of the committee of the San Pedro House of Culture in which I was just recently appointed. Clearly, the Minister's decision is strictly political as he has made that clear to me in person. This saddens me because I only want to volunteer my services to better my community and make the islanders proud of having such a great facility that promotes our rich culture. At first I cried because of my rejection of these two politicians (Mito Paz and Manuel Heredia), but then I realized I was not serving them but my people of San Pedro. Today I smile with pride and joy because there are so many others who have invited me to share my passion of serving with them and for San Pedro.

Belizean-American accuses PGIA Customs of discrimination
Dear Sir, I visited Belize in August 2014 for eight days and I am appalled and disgusted by the treatment received from the Custom officer. I had one suitcase (weighing 48 pounds) and one carry-on bag which contained my personal clothing and toiletries for my trip. My suitcase and carry-on bag were opened, poked, prodded and personal clothing items even taken out and put on the table. To tell the truth I was horrified and could not believe my eyes. I even asked the officer what she was looking for in my bags and was told "she had the right" to search my bags. Another point to note is that this woman did not wear a glove and imagine her touching and grabbing all the other items before me and for her to touch my personal clothing items is revolting. I was so upset I had to wash all my clothing before I could wear them. Just think about all the viruses and/or diseases that can be transferred by touching items from one bag after the other. Where is the training here? As a country that depends so much on tourism it is shocking the lack of training and professionalism the staff at immigration and customs has. To date they are the most hostile from all the places I have travelled. In most countries after they stamp your passport they tell you welcome to their country. This is very disappointing as so many "Caucasian" people I know that visited Belize tell me how friendly the people are.

Negligent garbage disposal in Hopkins Village
Dear Editor, Once again the garbage on the North End of Hopkins Village is being negligently disposed by Hopkins Harbor/Hopkins Bay daily. Their only concern appears to be for their guests' pleasure and safety, to play, relax, read, and sunbath on their clean beach. All garbage disposed with no care for the other tourists who pass to get to the lagoon, the Mayan beach vendors who sell gifts, the village people who use this path way to get to the lagoon to fish for food for their family and make their living by fishing in the lagoon. Hopkins Harbor/Hopkins Bay sure has enough staff, and money, to pay them to dump or properly remove the daily rack up of their beautiful manicured, man created beach, highly maintained, by disposing their debris, beach garbage , all insidiously placed on the other side of the fence. The Village Council, the Belize Government, Environmentalists, and BTB officials should investigate this gross pollution, harmful and dangerous disposal of garbage. Why is this overlooked? Is someone getting paid off?

WOMAN IN THE HOUSE - 14 TABLETS AND 500 BOOKS!!!
This past week we brought to fruition a small but signal event, the handing over of Tablets and Educational Software to the Hattieville Government School in Belize Rural Central at a brief ceremony last Thursday afternoon. Late last year a kind donor provided $3,000.00 for this project, and Business Computer Systems of Ladyville ordered the devices for us. The funds allowed us to access fourteen top quality tablets at a great deal, and so it was necessary to try to find out how we could gain maximum benefit for the primary school teachers and students. I chatted with teacher extraordinaire Yasser Musa as to how we could really make a positive difference with the few devices. He of course suggested that we should present them in keeping with the People's United Party's Education Agenda, which was launched on January 15th this year, the ninety-sixth birthday of late father of the nation George Price. Titled "Creativity & Technology," our Education Agenda pledges that we will make full use of modern technology and educational tools in order to adopt a revolutionary approach to teaching and learning.

BYM hosts Family Fun Day
Over 60 children from several constituencies in Belize City had a blast at the first Belize Youth Movement Family Fun Day held on Saturday April 18, 2015 at the YWCA Basketball Court on St. Thomas Street in Belize City. They were treated to a day of games and fun entertainment by members of the Belize Youth Movement. The Belize Youth Movement also held a BBQ fundraiser which was supported by leaders of the Party and members of the community.

Dr. Carla Barnett - From Iron Lady to Political Driftwood
There have been worldwide advocacy for women representation in politics. World history has recorded a number of important women rise to political office in various countries. Margaret Thatcher has risen to the ranks of political office in England. Thatcher became known as the "Iron Lady". The label was coined by a writer of the Red Star Yuri Gabrilov in 1976 because of Thatcher's iron clad stance against the Soviet Union and socialism. Other notable women are Indira Ghandi of India, Golda Meir of Israel and Benazir Bhutto of Pakistan. These women have all been called "Iron Lady". Benazir Bhutto was known for her charismatic authority and political astuteness. She was responsible for the implementation of economic policies and various social initiatives. She was also responsible for the denationalisation of state-owned corporations.

Hon. Dolores assists Western Paradise Village
Hon. Dolores Balderamos Garcia working together with Western Paradise Chairman Mr. Acencion Cal and West Lake Area residents of Western Paradise Village delivered material today, which makes one of the main entrances to this part of the village accessible. Photo shows residents with Hon. Dolores and delivery truck.

The need to repeal Barrow's Law
The unions, the churches, the business community, and thousands of Belizeans across the length and breadth of this country are greatly displeased with the recent passage of the Petro Caribe Loans Bill in the House on Thursday March 26th, 2015. This bill was rushed through all three motions in the National Assembly in a single day. There was no time for proper debate in either the House or the Senate on the Petro Caribe Bill, undermining the provision of oversight. Oversight is needed because in its absence we have not gotten value for money for spending on a number of projects that have been financed by loans from the program. Today a number of streets that should have been done with concrete remain incomplete while others are breaking up after a couple months. The reason? There was no tendering process to ensure that competent persons were given the contracts for such projects instead of incompetent political cronies. Similarly while the government has spent thousands of dollars of Petrocaribe loan on Mothers' Day cheer and Christmas Cheer for known UDP supporters, it has not used a dollar of the Petrocaribe money to address the dire need for proper low-income housing for the Belizean people.

UDP Still Opposes Maya Communal Land
Ever since Prime Minister Dean Barrow took office in 2008 the Maya peoples of Southern Belize have had to step up the defense of their rights in the face of abuse and oppression. A 10-point agreement drafted and agreed on by the Government of former Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Said Musa and Maya leaders in 2007, which recognised the Maya communal land in the Toledo District, was rubbished by the UDP Government. Dean Barrow and his Deputy Gaspar Vega showed preference to the special interests who wanted exploit the land whether the Maya people liked it or not. The irony of this all is that Dean Barrow was one of the attorneys representing the Maya peoples and defending their cause prior to the 2008 elections. Once he gained power; however, he turned against them.

Breaking Belize NewsPJ

Guatemala Vice President Resigns Amid Corruption
Guatemala's vice president, Roxana Baldetti resigned this morning amid customs corruption scandal. Baldettie became the first Guatemalan vice president to step down due to a corruption case even though prosecutors have not implicated her in the scandal and she denies involvement. "Her resignation is due to a personal decision with [�]

Western Ballaz Receive Donation
The Western Ballaz Team members are very enthusiastic and optimistic as they approach the end of the basketball season. Last night, the players were called out for a normal day of practice by Coach Douglas Smith and were surprised with a brand new custom set of Jordan Brand [�]

The Belize Bank Celebrates Financial Literacy Education
The Belize Bank Limited through its annual corporate social responsibility programs and initiative is proud to support PwC, Peacework and their partners, the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports in bringing greater awareness to the primary and secondary school children on the subject of Financial Literacy. PwC/Peacework conducted educational lessons [�]

Justin Hyde, Octaviana Lopez given bail
On April 17, mother and son Wendy Lambey and Aaron Munnings were shot at their home in Belize City. Police arrested and charged 19 year old Justin Hyde of Curl Thompson Street with attempted murder and other charges. Today he was set free on bail of $12,000 subject to [�]

Red Cross launches first aid app
Mobile phone applications are becoming increasingly a part of the thinking man's life as a simple way to access information and entertainment. But if you want to save a life, there's an app for that too. As part of annual celebrations marking World Red Cross Day, the Belize Red [�]

Immigrant charged in New Asia shooting
Twenty year old Dixon Montero, a Honduran national without legal immigration status in Belize, was charged with the attempted murder of 31 year old security guard Victor Hendy when he appeared today before Senior Magistrate Sharon Fraser. Montero was also charged with dangerous harm and use of deadly means [�]

Lucilla Bartley freed of murder charge
In a trial without a jury, 52 year old Lucilla Bartley, aka "Chilla", a mother of 6 charged with the murder of Osborne "Fish" Gordon, was acquitted of the charge today by Justice John Gonzalez, who ruled that it was a case of self- defence. Gordon, a fish cleaner [�]

Belize City man charged for Orange Walk Murder
Orange Walk Police have made an arrest in connection to the murder of 18 year old Derrick Romero of Sittee River Street in Orange Walk Town on Wednesday morning. Police say the trigger man is 20 year old Kachief Bevans of a Belize City address. He was arraigned this morning [�]

WORLD NEWS: UK's Conservatives win shock majority in general election
Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, David Cameron, has returned to the seat of power following an unexpected majority victory in general elections held Thursday. His Conservative Party has been confirmed to win 331 seats of 650 in the British Parliament, five more than needed for an outright [�]

Catholic Principals Gather in Punta Gorda
The 10th annual Catholic Principals Gathering will come to an end later today at the Francis J. Ring Parish Hall in Punta Gorda. The gathering has brought Principals from all over the country. The event officially opened with a church service at the St. Peter Claver Church. After the service, the principals gathered for supper at the Parish hall and enjoyed local entertainment. The event continues today.

Fair and Warm Weather to Continue
"TGIF" Thank God it's Friday, and if you are wondering if it will be a dry Mother's Day weekend, here is a look at the four day forecast leading into Monday. The National Meteorological Service of Belize is predicting, mostly sunny today and partly cloudy tonight. Showers will be isolated and winds will blow to the East at 10 to 20 knots. The sea state will be choppy to moderate. High temperatures are expected to be around 87 degrees Fahrenheit along the coast; 94 degrees Fahrenheit inland and a comfortable 80 degrees Fahrenheit up at the exposed areas of the Mountain Pine Ridge and along the Maya Mountains in the south.

Blogs

Catching Your Flight: The Overnight Bus from Belize to Cancun, The Details & Tips
ADO Mexico runs an overnight bus service from Belize City to Cancun and one from Belize City to Merida. I took the first about 3 years ago - a bit more. And I HATED it�I was miserable and cold and cranky and it took me a few days to recover. I vowed to NEVER do it again. But never say never. When on a very tight budget and when you find a very cheap flight from Cancun Airport to Providence RI (via Baltimore on Southwest) - NEVER fades. This is the cheapest way to make the trip. No hotels to rest and freshen up�you are just motoring through and THIS is how I made it work. 1. San Pedro Belize Express Boat trip from San Pedro to Belize City (RT with membership card - $10bzd - the price is $48bzd) 2. SECURE ADO overnight bus ticket The overnight bus tickets go on sale at the Belize CIty bus station at 5pm each day. There is NO other way to get it�not online, not by phone, not in San Pedro. You can buy your ticket up to three days in advance and the line is a scramble to get up there and then the line is tedious�a slog. Thankfully I was given a secret tip.

They came, they ate and we raised some funds
Rule number one of party planning and fundraising events, there are no guarantees and always have a plan B. Thankfully many people are in favor of the San Pedro Belize Red Cross and we raised $1338 from ticket sales and donations at our Wednesday night fundraiser dinner at El Patio. It was a perfectly timed event in order for us to celebrate World Red Cross Red Crescent day, which honors the birth of the Founder Henry Dunant (May 8, 1928). All money raised will go towards helping sustain our organization and the work we do within the community. With the much anticipated First Aid Instructor's training finally being scheduled by our Headquarters in Belize City, one of the biggest items on our plate is to secure a big building so we can hold FA/CPR courses in our own facility rather than always having to find a location�. not that we don't appreciate all the places where we have held trainings, especially the consistent and often last minute arrangements with Banana Beach Resort who donate the use of the upstairs at El Divino, but it will be so great when we have a place to call "our own". A few people know, I have a movie that continuously plays in my head of how it will be and all the community activities we will be able to do there as well. :)

The Best Thing About Belize Might Not Be What You Expected
It took me a while to figure out what exactly it is that sets Belize apart from many other travel destinations. Some of you may think it's the beautiful Cayes, where the Caribbean Sea washes ashore to sandy beaches and the cool shade of palm trees. That suggestion sounds likely, after all, Ambergris Caye, Belize's most popular destination has consecutively been named the best island of the world but thousands of TripAdvisor users. Or how about the interesting culture of the Maya, with their amazing food, bizarre religious practices and fascinating ancient ruins? Others may say the beauty of Belize lies in the great adventures such as scuba diving great sites, swimming with whale sharks, exploring caves that hold sacred Mayan relics and sacrificial remains, and discovering unique wildlife creatures such as birds. Again, these suggestions are all serious contenders but the answer is never quite that simple. The best thing about Belize is its people and the way of life. It's how everyone looks for ways to connect with each other. A day doesn't go by without someone telling you "Gud Ma'ning/ good morning" or "Tek Care/ take care". You may think that's not a big deal but it is proven that something as little as a smile from a stranger can set off a chain reaction of positive feelings. As humans we yearn kindness and when received, we are more likely to reciprocate it and in the end, feel better about ourselves.

International Sourcesizz

Belize offshore oil plan sparks worries for reefs, fisheries
Belize is considering new offshore drilling regulations that could open nearly the entire coast to exploration and exploitation, environmental groups have warned, calling it a threat to vital reefs, fisheries and tourism concerns. The proposal recently made public by the Ministry of Energy would even allow drilling in the vicinity of the Great Blue Hole, a world-famous diving destination that can be seen from space and looks just like what its name suggests, the U.S.-based activist group Oceana said. "They've declared open-season on almost 99 percent of Belize's marine area," Janelle Chanona, Oceana's vice president for the Central American nation, said by phone from the capital, Belmopan. "That includes seven World Heritage sites, that includes marine protected areas � and it is unacceptable." The proposal is still in the draft stage. Government officials did not respond to requests for comment Thursday, but have said previously that they are considering possible modifications including feedback from groups like Oceana. Belize currently has a moratorium on offshore drilling.

Postcard from: Xunantunich, Belize
The trip: My daughter and I celebrated her 21st birthday with a trip to Belize. We stayed at Hopkins Bay Resort in the small village of Hopkins. This photo was one of the excursions we took to visit Xunantunich, an excavated Mayan ruin. Eder, our guide, was informative and fun. Belize is a beautiful, quiet place and the people are so warm. I highly recommend it.

Leo DiCaprio's Belize Keeps the Vision for Sanctuary Belize
Four-time Oscar-nominee, Leonardo DiCaprio, is investing in Belize and championing some restorative initiatives along that country's Central American coastline. But he is not the only one. Sanctuary Belize, a 14,000-acre real estate resort front on Belize's southeast coast, is also working to preserve the country's pristine jungles and delicate cayes for those who want to visit and live in Belize. Sanctuary Belize is a 20-minute direct flight from Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City to a private airstrip at Kanantik, gateway to Sanctuary Belize. A country of only 332,000 people, Belize is considered more like Costa Rica of the 1990s or Hawaii of the 1960s -- a pristine destination to visit and a fabulous place to live, whether for a few weeks of full time. Cities are never too large, crime is not common and the U.S. dollar there goes a long way. While DiCaprio is working with luxury resort developers to create a 104-acre exclusive eco-resort, Sanctuary Belize is creating its own sustainable master-planned community of some 2,000 home sites as well as villas and condos. Both developments have been inspired by the unspoiled environment that Belize presents and are committed to keeping the land and shores as clean and pure as they have ever been.

280 Marines going to Central America
Some 280 U.S. Marines are landing in Central America any day now. The operation has no code name, but it's the fruit of about a year's planning by the U.S. Southern Command to insert a newly formed expeditionary outfit into the U.S.-run swath of the Soto Cano air base in Honduras for about 200 days, the longest, largest known Marine deployment onto Central American turf in years. About 90 of the Marines will be going to Guatemala, El Salvador and Belize. Details so far are scarce about what the Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-South will do exactly. It sounds like it will train friendly forces and be in a position to pivot to high-profile disaster relief efforts, which the U.S. military likes to promote in poorer southern hemisphere countries. Spokesmen say the Marines will not do double-duty in the drug war. On April 30, the deputy Southern Command commander, Army Lt. Gen. Kenneth Tovo, testified before a House Foreign Affairs subcommittee that the special unit's ground element will be doing regional training - maritime and river operations, marksmanship and small-unit training. It has an air wing and logistics unit that will be "working with our partners to repair schools and other facilities." A spokesman for Southcom's Marine subsidiary in Miami, Capt. Armando Daviu, likened it to the Marines' role in the multinational effort that swept into Haiti after the 2010 earthquake.

US-Cuba ferry services to restart after 50 years
Authorities in the US have approved passenger ferry services between Florida and Cuba for the first time in more than 50 years. Services between the two countries stopped when the US imposed a trade embargo on Cuba in 1960. The US government has now lifted the ban and a number of ferry companies say they have been given licences.

Videos

  • Belize Scuba Diving, 5min.

  • Belize zoo trip 2015, 9min. The leopard scare my ass.

  • ORANGE WALK POLICE CHARGE A BELIZE CITY YOUTH IN DERRICK ROMERO'S MURDER, 3min. A Belize City youth has been formally charged for the murder of eighteen year old Derrick Romero who was gunned down on Wednesday morning. As we previously reported, a lone gun man approached a yard of an apartment complex on Sittee River Street in which Romero and two others were socializing. The gun man unleashed a volley of shots at his direction causing him to succumb to his injuries whilst receiving treatment at the Northern Regional Hospital. And this morning, bound by cuffs, he appeared at the Magistrate's court this morning where a single charge for Murder was read.

  • BURGER HUT'S FUNDRAISING INITIATIVE ON LUPUS AWARENESS, 3min. It's Lupus Awareness Month - the perfect time to talk about the importance of lupus awareness! Spreading the word about the diseases is important because many people don't know what it is. This lack of awareness is not good for people who develop lupus - they often feel somewhat isolated and uncertain about when to mention their lupus diagnosis with employers, colleagues and friends. A lack of public awareness also impacts funding for programs and services as well as research. And today, across Belize and around the world was observed as Put On Purple Day in an effort to heighten the awareness of Lupus, an unpredictable and misunderstood autoimmune disease that ravages different parts of the body. While many individuals participated in the POP Day, one business that is fundraising for Lupus Awareness is Burger Hut here in Orange Walk Town. Owner Rodrigo Gonzalez told us more on his initiative�.

  • Kiteboarding at Hatchet Caye, Belize, 1min.

  • Kitespot at Hatchet Caye, Belize, 1.5min.
  • © Ambergris Caye Belize Message Board