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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, and other specials


The San Pedro Sun

Belize suspends Petrocaribe program
After over four years, the Government of Belize has suspended the Venezuelan Petrocaribe program. Under this program, Belize was being supplied with oil from the South American country on conditions of preferential payments, which saved the Belizean economy hundreds of millions of dollars. The program also generated over $400 million in funding to the current administration as part of an economic cooperation agreement. However, due to the economic instability in Venezuela, obtaining fuel has been becoming increasingly difficult, affecting the demand (and price) in Belize. Thus, the program remains in limbo for the time being.

Firearm license fees to increase
In an attempt to minimize the number of illegal firearm and ammunition currently on the streets, the Government of Belize has proposed a new schedule for gun license fees. The announcement was made last week Thursday, September 14th, and proposes to make increases by over 100%. The increased gun license fee will be from zero to $300, while a gun repair license will see an increase from zero to $50 dollars. A special protection license will increase up to $225 dollars, and the fee for shotgun holders will change from five dollars to $25 dollars. According to the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Belize Police Department, these increases are expected to come into effect in the coming months. The Ministry also stated that they are seeking ways to also increase penalties for certain firearm related offenses. They are optimistic that this initiative will deter the amount of persons having access to firearms.

BNTU threatens to strike if Government ends Senate investigation
The Belize National Teachers' Union (BNTU) has informed the Government of Belize (GOB) that it plans to go on a nationwide strike if they cease to allocate funds to the Senate Special Select Committee. In a letter from Prime Minister Dean Barrow to the clerk of the National Assembly in early August, the PM stated that disbursement of funds to the Committee would discontinue after November of this year. The instructions from Barrow state that after Government makes two more supplementary payments of $165,552 the committee will no longer receive additional funding. The note explains that GOB cannot afford to fund the Committee after November. Prime Minister Barrow stated that government is hard-pressed to find extra budgetary allocations to fund the newly reconstituted Integrity Commission and implementation of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) to which the county signed on December 9, 2016.

Ambergris Today

Pedro Salazar Sr. Honored At Tribute To Belizean Patriots Award Ceremony
The Tribute to Belizean Patriots Awards Ceremony 2017 was held on September 14, 2017, at the Bliss Institute for Performing Arts in Belize City. The event is held every year as a part of the official September Celebrations activities. It's an occasion to honor Belizeans who have dedicated their lives to serving the country. Twenty-two Belizeans were honored for their service to Belize over the years. Twenty of the honorees received a Meritorious Service Award, while two received the Order of Distinction. Among those honored was Mr. Pedro Salazar Sr. of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye.

Misc Belizean Sources

mzz

Caye Caulker Tour Guide Training starts on October 2nd
Total instruction hours is 90 days - Three (3) hours per evening, five (5) days per week; Internship - Two (2) weeks; Course Fee of seven hundred dollars ($700.00) is to be paid in full upon application and is non-refundable VENUE: Caye Caulker Roman Catholic School - drinking water will be provided...

Beach BBQ every Sunday at Portofino
A great weekend beach barbecue option.

Machel Montano arriving in style with Tropic Air

WHEN DEAN LINDO WAS THE MOST POWERFUL POLITICIAN IN BELIZE!
The 1970s Belizean politics saw the rise of one of Belize's most powerful politicians of all times, the Lawyer/politician and a former National Independence Party (NIP) of Belize politician, Dean Lindo, who broke away from the NIP and pioneered the formation of the United Democratic Party (U.D.P) that continues to dominate party politics in Belize winning three consecutive elections since 2008 to become Belize's only three times government ever in the history of politics in Belize. Minister Dean Lindo also defeated another powerful Belizean politician, the Peoples United Party's (PUP) Said Musa in Belize City's "Fort George Division" in the 1984 Belize general elections that brought him to exceptional acclaim as not only one of Belize's most creative political gurus, but also as one of the 1960s opposition's NIP/UDP first elected politician to Belize's Central Government after the outstanding Minister Philip Goldson.

THE INCOMPARABLE "HARMONETTES" BAND OF BELIZE & THE LEGENDARY GODFREY "D-MACK" MCGREGOR!
The incomparable Belizean musical band of the 1960s and 70s Belize music scene became one of Belize's best bands of all times. The "Harmonettes" was the brainchild of the legendary Belizean musician, Godfrey McGregor, of the 1950s and 60s Belize musical accomplishment when Belize's "Big Band" sound dominated the music scene. At that time these bands played only instrumental. Later on, "D-Mack" as he was called, pioneered the Belizean musical revolution, and like the legendary "Lord Rhaburn Combo", he ventured off into a solo career and formed the "Harmonttes". They became one of the Belize's best bands that won musical competitions and created many Belizean musicians and vocalists.

BELIZE'S WAYNE "RED BOY" LUTHER, MELTING POT & RADIO BELIZE!
Belizean legendary DJ, Wayne "Red Boy" Luther of the 1970s Belizean music and entertainment scene!

WHEN EUGENE MUSLAR WAS BELIZE'S BEST LONG DISTANCE ATHLETE!
The legendary Belizean long distance athlete, Eugene Muslar, rose to become Belize's most accomplished long distance runner of all times. He won many of the best long distance meets that included the "Mile", 400M, and the 800M in the 1970s and 80s before he emigrated out of Belize where he represented Belize in the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles. He lives in Los Angeles, California with his family where he went on to win many 10Ks in the 1980s as he continued his passionate training right up into the 1990s. Big respect "Muslar"!

Belize and the EU Hold Third "Article 8" Political Dialogue Session
As part of Belize's Diplomatic Week and Independence Celebrations, the third political dialogue session between the European Union (EU) and Belize took place in Belmopan on Tuesday, 19th September 2017. The cordial and constructive dialogue offered a platform for consultations over a broad range of bilateral, regional and multilateral issues, as well as an opportunity to take stock of progress made concerning 'essential elements' of the Cotonou Agreement, including respect for human rights, democratic principles and good governance. The two sides discussed the progress of the EU/Belize development partnership and renewed their commitment to partnering on health, energy and public finance management in Belize.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Hosts Annual Diplomatic Briefing
On Wednesday, September 20th, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Honorable Wilfred Elrington addressed the diplomatic community gathered in Belize City to participate in the events scheduled in celebration of the 36th Anniversary of Belize's Independence. At the gathering, Minister Elrington expressed the Government of Belize's deep condolences and sympathies to the nations and victims affected by the recent devastating natural disasters. The Minister also presented the most recent activities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs including the current development agenda of the Government of Belize, recent economic and political developments in Belize, priority areas of international cooperation, and regional issues. The Minister further expressed the government's gratitude for the staunch support it has received from its diplomatic allies around the world.

New signs on Caye Caulker
Today was the launch of the signage portion of the Sustainable Tourism Project 2. Thank you International Developmebt Bank and Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation for making this project a reality. C.C.V.C. looks forward in collaborating in the near future to get more done for our beautiful home.

BVO Torch Run 2017
Department of Youth Services Benque in collaboration with Benque Viejo town Council for the second year organized the annual Torch Run from Belmopan to Benque. 60 Youths from the surrounding communities participated in this event to exercise their patriotism, making it a success.

UB Celebrates National Service Day
The University of Belize (UB) students, faculty and staff joined donors on September 19th, 2017 to beautify the different Campuses as a tribute to National Service Day, a day commemorated across the country in honor of former Prime Minister, the Right Honorable George Cadle Price who passed away on this date in 2011. At a ceremony held on the grounds of the main campus, Belmopan Mayor, His Worship Khalid Belisle delivered the keynote address. Mayor Belisle reminded the students that National Service Day honors Price, who started the peaceful, constructive revolution in 1950 that led Belize to Independence on September 21st, 1981. His life, dedicated to the country, led to several distinguished titles being bestowed upon him including: the "Order of National Hero", Belize's highest honor and "Father of the Nation." Not only was he a man of deed but also of humility. As he travelled the country, he offered his service to communities. He contributed in a selfless manner to uplift the country and people of Belize.

San Pedro Power out Friday
BEL crews have been dispatched to Maskall Substation to identify and rectify cause of power interruption affecting entire San Pedro Town since 2:21 p.m., Friday, September 22.

DYS Celebrates National Service Day
The Benque branch of the DYS teamed up with Alvin Young high school to clean up and refurbish a Succutz park. Thanks, DYS! "The Department of Youth Services Benque Viejo in collaboration with Alvin Young Nazarene High School conducted its National Service Day clean up campaign at one of the parks in San Jose Succotz where we refurbish the swings, clean and cut the grass, and painted the benches. We would like to thank Benque Hardware for their kind donation of materials for the swing."

Paradise Theater playing this weekend:
The Book of Henry, The House, Despicable 3, Berlin Syndrome. So many people requested us to bring back Despicable Me 3 ... so for those.. enjoy! Spiderman Homecoming next weekend...

Channel 7

CJ Keeps to Schedule, Puts Out Four Judgements In A Week
On Monday, we told you about that stern resolution that the Bar Association passed at their meeting a week ago. It's a unanimous decision to call for Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin to resign if he cannot deliver judgments on a schedule he put out last week. He had 28 judgments outstanding, some of which have been pending for over 5 years, and tonight, we can report that has delivered 4 of them this week - on schedule. He delivered a judgement on Monday, and another on Tuesday, and today he delivered 2 more. The first case is one brought by the major construction company, International Environments - which is building the 32-million dollar Belize City Center. They sued the Commissioner of Income Tax, and that case concluded in July of 2012, about 5 years and a month ago. Then, he delivered a judgment in the case of Western Development Limited, and that company's lawsuit against the Attorney General.

Bail For Alleged Murderer - 4th Time in Belize History
On Wednesday night, we told you about 30 year-old Nelson Henry. He's the accused murderer who has been remanded for 5 years waiting for a Supreme Court trial. Well tonight, he's out, and he's becomes the 4th person in Belize's judicial history to be released on bail while still facing a murder charge. As we told you main witness, former police officer Catherine Perteau refused to cooperate with the prosecution. That caused trial delays, which Henry's attorney, Oscar Selgado seized upon. He made an application to Justice Adolph Lucas that Henry should get bail because his constitutional right to fair trial within a reasonable time had been breached. After considering his application, Justice Lucas came back today and issued a surprising decision. He granted Henry bail of $25,000 with the conditions that he must not interfere with the prosecution's witness, and with a curfew. So, the accused killer gets to go home for the first time since July of 2011, when he was first arrested and charged for the murder of Edward Lord Jr.

Young Girl Dies In Traffic Accident
A 12 year old girl from Stann Creek was killed in an accident last night. It happened around 9:00 at mile 26 and a half on the Phillip Goldson Highway. 12 year old Daphnie Polanco was traveling along with her family members David Polanco, Davisha Polanco, Darcie Lopez, and Tyrone Parham. They were all in a blue Mazda pickup heading to Belize City. Jadiel Usher and Dion Skeen were also traveling towards Belize City in a Green Toyota Corolla. Police reports are that the driver of the Corolla hit the Polanco's vehicle and both lost control and overturned. Daphnie died on the spot as a result of the impact.

Moses Babb, From Hospital, to Courtroom, To Jail
A suspect has been charged for the Aaron King shooting that took place at a house on Sunday night in the Buttonwood Bay area. Today, Moses Babb - who was also shot - went from the hospital to court and appeared before Magistrate Aretha Ford and was charged with attempted murder, use of deadly means of harm, and kept firearm without a license. He pled not guilty to the firearm offense - and no plea was taken for the other two charges because those will be dealt with at the Supreme Court. Because it is a firearm offense, no bail was offered and he was remanded until November 27th.

Political Leaders Clashed On Independence Day
After three weeks of festivities, the September Celebrations are over. The official climax of the month came yesterday in Belmopan where the official ceremonies were held on the National Assembly stairs. The Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition were the stars, but some hecklers also gathered the limelight. Jules Vasquez was there:... Khalid Belisle, Mayor Belmopan: "I call on you my countrymen to keep the goodwill of September year round." Jules Vasquez reporting: But they couldn't even keep the goodwill on Independence Day. This was activist. Ronald Rivers as he got thrown out during John Briceno's speech. Both Briceno and Barrow seemed amused. And Barrow hardly looked up when Fitzharris Howard got thrown out during his speech. Maybe Deputy PM and chair of the September Celebrations Commission Patrick Faber didn't see either because he's watching the future:

PM Takes Glancing Blow At Social Partners
The Prime Minister also had some remarks for the social partners who keep issuing statements saying that the Integrity Commission is inactive, and that he hasn't kept true to his promise to reform the Public Accounts Committee. Here's how he put it:... Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister: "The Integrity Commission has been reconstituted, is working, and has already published for public knowledge and further action the names of those politicians who failed to comply with their obligations under the law. How so-called responsible people can claim to be unaware of these activities and strides, defeats me." "Government, I should say in this context, is still agreeable to the expansion of the PAC, though the logistics of its conversion from a House to a bi-cameral entity are proving challenging."

The Pain of PM Skerrit
And while Belize's Prime Minister spoke glowingly of the future, one of his CARICOM Colleagues can hardly see past the present. That's Dominican PM, Roosevelt Skerrit. Three years ago, he was in Belize for the September 21st Ceremony, but 2017 finds him trying to manage the aftermath of the catastrophic Hurricane Maria on his small island state. As we've reported, Skerrit had to be rescued from his own home after his roof blew off during the storm. But, that was just a small snapshot of the devastation that Maria wrought all across Dominica. Tonight 15 people are dead and many others missing. Yesterday in an emotional interview with ABS Television in nearby Antigua, Skerrit revisited the horror of Hurricane Maria.

Dominica's Destruction Takes A Toll On Citizens
So, while the Prime Minister of Dominica gave a broad overview of the damage that Hurricane Maria caused, our colleagues from ABS Television and Radio in Antigua and Barbuda went on the ground for an up-close look. Here's what a number of the hurricane victims told that news team about the massive rebuilding efforts they must undertake: Hurricane Maria has 175 mile an hour winds when it hit Dominica. The Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility - will make a payout of 19 million US dollars to Dominica for Hurricane relief. As viewers are aware, CCRIF SPC acts sort of like an insurance company, but specifically for CARICOM Nations.

Cops Shot A Man In Griga, Get 6 Lbs. Weed
Police have shot another man in Dangriga - the last case was in July when the cops shot a teenager and didn't charge him for anything. In this case, the cops found their suspect with 6 pounds of weed. On Wednesday night at around 9:25, police on mobile patrol near Castillo's Alley saw 38-year-old Adolpho Nunez. Nunez ran away when he saw the patrol but one of the officers identified himself and ordered Nunez to stop. Nunez then allegedly threw a black bag of weed at the officer. They then started to fight and that's when the officer shot Nunez to the leg. The bag had 6 pounds of weed. The shooting is currently under investigation - while Nunez is in the hospital pending charges.

TV Thieves Tied Woman Up
A woman was stabbed to the neck and left tied up in her home by two men who were stealing her television. It happened on La Croix Boulevard in the Lake Independence area this morning. at 4:20 AM, 45-year-old Romie Anthony was awakened by noise coming from the hall. When she went to check what was happening, she saw two men in dark clothing with masks removing her flat screen television from the wall. One of them grabbed her, and one stabbed her to the neck with a sharp object. They then took her to her room where they tied her with an electrical cord. 20 minutes after the burglars left with the television, she freed herself and called the police. No arrests have been made.

Man Stabs "Bra'anlee"
This evening in Orange Walk town, a man allegedly stabbed his sister's boyfriend. It happened at around 4:45 when 34 year old Ajit Ramclam was visiting his girlfriend. He and her brother got into a fight, and the brother stabbed Ramclam in the back and hand with a knife. He was admitted to ward in a stable condition.

The Passing Of Patrick Grant, The Constant Gardener
Patrick Grant - he's the very senior citizen who was viciously beaten down and robbed at his Fern Lane home in December of 2015. His neighbor Chester Noralez was charged for dangerous harm and burglary. Well we have some sad news: he died yesterday. According to his family, he was not feeling well and was hospitalized on Monday. After several tests, the doctors found that his kidneys were failing. Relatives say he had no known kidney ailment. Patrick Grant was 95 year old. After the 2015 incident we had been following Grant's progress and recovery. And 7news handed him a brand new weed whacker to replace the one that had been stolen. Here's how he reacted then, in January of 2016.

PUP Demands That GOB Lower Fuel Tax
The PUP is demanding that government lower fuel prices by reducing its tax take. A late evening release quotes Party Leader John Brice as saying, quote, "the People's United Party will not stand on the sidelines and just watch the government saddle the backs of the Belizean people with these exorbitant fuel prices." Briceno says forty-three percent of the pump price is collected by Government in the form of taxes." A statement says "The PUP is calling on the government to immediately reduce the taxes on fuel."

Cowpen Connected to Power Grid
A few weeks ago we told you about a rural electrification project that the European Union along with the Government of Belize and Belize Electricity Limited implemented. The project brought Electricity to 500 households, 27 communities, and 13 farms in the south. Today we met the European Union Ambassador to Belize at one of those newly electrified banana farms in Cowpen. Sahar Vasquez has the story: In Cowpen Village, residents in these humble homes had become accustomed to living without electricity. But through a partnership between the European Union and Government along with BEL helped change the way of life for these people by installing safe and reliable electricity. Candalari Cal, Resident: "16 years I don't have and now I have which is good. Everything is changing. Right now my children are happy for us to have TV and light at home.

Elrington At UN
The United National General Assembly runs from September 12 to the 29th - but the real action started this week with the general debate - where presidents, prime ministers and foreign ministers present their views to the plenary session. Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington made his 9th presentation for Belize - and he told the gathering Belize is trying to bring Guatemala to the table:... Hon. Wilfred Elrington, Minister of Foreign Affairs: "Likewise, when Belize's territorial integrity was at stake, Belize turned to the UN to defend its sovereignty over its land and for as long as we have been a dutiful Member State, we have had peace. We want that peace to endure and so we have taken every measure to bring Guatemala to the table of justice in respect of its unfounded claim on our territory."

Wilfred, Diplomatically Speaking
And before he went to New York, on Wednesday Elrington addressed the diplomatic community that gathered in Belize City for the celebration of Belize's Independence. According to a release, Elrington presented the most recent activities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs including the current development agenda of the Government of Belize, recent economic and political developments in the country, priority areas of international cooperation, and regional development.

The Flag at 36
To close off the September festivities we leave you with Thursday night's flag raising the 36th time Belize's flag went up at midnight

Channel 5

Premium Fuel Hiked Again; Fourth Increase of Gas Prices in 2 Months
Independence Day in Belmopan was full of invective from both sides of the political spectrum, and there is a major announcement on Petrocaribe to report tonight. But we begin with [...]

P.U.P. Condemns 'Historic' Fuel Prices - Says Taxes Should Go Down
At news time, the Opposition People's United Party has sent a release calling for Government to immediately reduce taxes on fuel, to alleviate the recent increases in fuel prices. The [...]

The 2 Belizes of Independence Day 2017
Now to Independence Day�independent now for thirty-six years, is Belize any better off?� According to the Prime Minister, the country appears to be shaking off the malaise of recent years [...]

Petrocaribe is Back - in October
"Petrocaribe will roll it once more," Prime Minister Dean Barrow confirmed Thursday morning during his Independence Day address. This follows a meeting with a delegation of Venezuelan officials who arrived [...]

Support for PAC Expansion and Lands Reformation
The Government faces no end of scandal in many of its Ministries, from Immigration to Health, Education to Works to Finance. But the hot button issue of the moment is [...]

O.W.'s Kevin Bernard Refutes "Erroneous" Integrity Commissions Statement
On Wednesday, the Integrity Commission announced that it forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecution the list of persons in public life who failed to submit their declaration of assets, [...]

Rare Bail for Accused Murderer at Supreme Court
It's a rare occasion for an accused murderer to be granted bail by the Supreme Court; in fact, it has only happened three times before. But tonight, twenty-eight-year-old Nelson Henry [...]

Moses Babb Brought to Court for Shooting of Aaron King
Eighteen-year-old Moses Anthony Babb has been remanded to the Belize Central Prison after being arraigned earlier today on a slew of charges resulting from a near fatal shooting on Sunday.� [...]

The Lights are Turned On in Cowpen
Cowpen is a small village located in the heart of the banana belt in southern Belize. It is populated by workers of the industry, who toil the fields or package [...]

12-year-old Killed Instantly in Highway Accident
Just before nine o'clock on Thursday night, as many Belizeans were returning home from the carnival road march in Orange Walk, a fatal road traffic accident occurred around mile twenty-six [...]

Father and Daughter Struck by Hit-and-Run Vehicle
Meanwhile another staff member is the victim of a hit and run in the city. Master Control Operator Alvin usher and his daughter Brianna are lucky to be alive after [...]

Single Mom Robbed and Stabbed at Home
A forty-five-year-old single mother of Belize City is tonight recovering from multiple stab wounds to the neck following a home invasion at her La Croix Boulevard house in Lake Independence. [...]

Where is Daniel Leal, Missing Since Tuesday?
The family of twenty-four-year-old Daniel Leal is seeking public assistance in locating their loved one who has been reported missing since September nineteenth.� According to Martha Leal, a teacher of [...]

Suspected Drug Trafficker Brought Down by Police
A suspected drug trafficker is recovering at the Southern Regional Hospital from a gunshot wound to the leg.� Adolpho Nunez, also known as Sand, was in the vicinity of Rear [...]

Franz Parke Close to Appointment as Appeal Judge; Did Classmate P.M. Help Him Out?
The Governor General has received the instrument of appointment for Jamaican-American attorney Franz Parke to the Belize Court of Appeal for a five-year term beginning in October. �Parke was previously [...]

Foreign Minister Reports to U.N.
This afternoon, Minister of Foreign Affairs Wilfred Elrington addressed the United Nations. Last year, he earned rave reviews for a speech he gave in New York at the General Assembly [...]

New Management for Queen of the Bay?
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Patrick Faber addressed the Independence Day ceremonies for the first time as co-chair of the September Celebrations Commission. His [...]

Faber Says the Youth Shall Inherit Belize
The deputy P.M. made reference to the coming of new, younger leadership as the older generation, including Prime Minister Dean Barrow, departs. Faber addressed the importance and necessity of change [...]

Help on the Way as P.M. Recounts Maria Terror in Dominica
The Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility has announced that Dominica will receive a payout of over nineteen million U.S. dollars following the passage of Hurricane Maria as it begins the [...]

Mexico Red Cross seeks donations for earthquake victims
It's been three days since a seven point one earthquake hit Mexico City, killing two hundred and eighty-six persons and hundreds more remain missing, at last count. Those numbers continue [...]

LOVE FM

Elrington takes crisis of correspondent banking to UN
The annual General Debate of the seventy second session of the United Nations General Assembly began on September 19. The debate presents an opportunity for world leaders to discuss global issues at the UN Headquarters. This afternoon, Minister of Foreign Affairs Wilfred Elrington made his presentation. Elrington stated that Belize, as a middle income country, [�]

Opposition Leader slams Government in his Independence Day address
Belize celebrated its 36th anniversary of independence yesterday. The official ceremonies which took place at the foot of the National Assembly building saw members of the diplomatic corps, members of the parliament, the judiciary and others gathered. As is customary, the Leader of the Opposition delivered an address. Earlier this week Leader of the Opposition, [�]

Scandals have eroded public trust says Opposition Leader
The Opposition Leader said the Barrow administration has been plagued with numerous scandals which have eroded the confidence of the Belizean public. Opposition Leader - John Briceno "Truly when we see this administration overwhelmed with scandal on top of scandal involving high ranking ministers, elected representatives and their cronies we are compelled to agree that [�]

Prime Minister says economy on right track
Earlier this month the IMF completed its Article Four consultation with Belize and stated that Belize's macroeconomic outlook remains weak. It said Belize's economic growth is expected to rebound however the medium term outlook is relatively weak with high debt, and large external imbalances. In his address yesterday on the occasion of the nation's 36th [�]

Petrocaribe to continue rolling in Belize
On Wednesday we reported that the Petrocaribe agreement appeared to be back on track. Yesterday during his address, Prime Minister Barrow made it official. Prime Minister Dean Barrow "At the end of last week, however, we announced the suspension of the PetroCaribe fuel and financing arrangement. This had to do with a number of issues [�]

Decriminalization of small quantities of marijuana to come into effect
During his address the Prime Minister made several announcements including the impending decriminalization of small quantities of marijuana. Prime Minister Dean Barrow "We celebrate now the imminent passage of the marijuana decriminalization Bill. This is a first step in ameliorating conditions that saw principally the already marginalized ending up in jail for weed possession. Weed [�]

Agriculture sector bouncing back after Hurricane Earl
Prime Minister Barrow said the Agriculture sector is recovering from the damages sustained during Hurricane Earl. Prime Minister Dean Barrow "We see that the recovery has been steady and confidence in the sector high. Our officials have been busy securing market access to CARICOM for poultry, beef and direct consumption sugars. Arrangements for duty free [�]

Major infrastructural works on the horizon
Prime Minister Dean Barrow highlighted several infrastructural projects that are to be completed across the country. Prime Minister - Dean Barrow "Next month I sign the OFID loan for the Haulover Bridge replacement, and this will top off the ongoing Highway upgrading between Belize City's Buttonwood Boulevard and the PGIA junction- and how beautifully this [�]

Belize Progressive Party unimpressed with Independence Day speeches
The Belize Progressive Party was not impressed with the addresses made by the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition at yesterday's Independence Day ceremony. The BPP says both lacked depth regarding the wide expanse of governance-related issues and the subsequent, detrimental impacts on Belize. It goes on to say both were devoid of [�]

Young girl killed in road traffic accident
12-year-old Dafnie Polanco died in a road traffic incident which occurred last night at mile 26 � on the Phillip Goldson Highway. According to police reports, at around 9:00 p.m. they visited the scene where they saw a blue Mazda pick-up truck in the drain facing the direction of Orange Walk Town while a Grey [�]

The Reporter

Family feud results in stabbing
A dispute between two brothers-in-law ened up with one being stabbed and the other being detained. The incident happened some after 4:00 p.m., this evening in Orange Walk Town. It happened when Ajit Ramclam, 34, visited his girlfriend's house on Marcelino Tun Street, and became embroiled in an altercation with her brother, who reportedly produced a knife and stabbed him. Ramclam was taken to the Northern Regional Hospital with stab wounds to the back and a cut wound to the right hand. He is admitted to ward in a stable condition. Police have detained the suspect pending investigations.

Girl, 12, dies in traffic accident
A 12 year-old girl died in a traffic accident on the Philip Goldson Highway on Thursday night. Police say the incident happened between miles 26 and 27 sometime around 9:00 p.m., and involved a blue Mazda pick-up and a gray Toyota Corolla. Travelling in the Mazda pick-up was David Polanco, Darcie Lopez, Tyrone Parham, Daphnie Polanco, Davisha Polanco and another person only identified as Davina; while travelling in the Toyota Corolla was Jadiel Usher and Dion Skeen. Police say both vehicles were travelling in the direction from Orange Walk towards Belize City when the Corolla clipped the Mazda, causing both vehicles to overturn. Daphnie Polanco suffered severe injuries and died at the scene.

Breaking Belize NewsPJ

PUP condemns the hike in fuel
The People's United Party (PUP) is gravely concerned and dismayed by the recent increases in fuel prices that have occurred over the past two weeks in Belize. According to a release issued a short while ago, these new pump prices with premium gasoline reaching almost twelve dollars per gallon are among the highest in history, even though the cost of crude oil on the world market is hovering around fifty dollars per barrel.

Belizeans to feel the pinch; fuel price for Premium increases tonight
Two days ago, the Belize Bureau of Standards announced an increase in fuel price. Regular gas went from $10.21 to $11.13. Today, the Bureau announced that effective midnight, premium gasoline goes up by 93 cents.

12 year old boy missing in Spanish Lookout
A twelve year old child from Spanish Lookout is reported missing. According to reports, Peter Dyck, a Mennonite boy residing with his parents in Spanish Lookout was last seen last night at his home.

World Pharmacist's Day to be celebrated next week
On Monday, September 25, 2017, World Pharmacy Day will be celebrated. The theme for this year's Pharmacy Day in Belize is " Belizean Pharmacists Contributing to Improved Health and Wellness of our Communities."

Remote areas in Banana belt get power
European Union Ambassador, H.E. Maltorzata Wasilewska visited several areas in southern Belize today to mark the conclusion of a $4.5 million dollar project in collaboration with Belize Electricity Limited (BEL), to supply power to remote communities.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosts annual diplomatic briefing
On Wednesday, September 20, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wilfred Elrington addressed the diplomatic community gathered in Belize City to participate in the events scheduled in celebration of the 36th Anniversary of Belize's Independence.

Bahamas extend congratulations on Belize's 36th Independence anniversary
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Bahamas issued a statement congratulating Belize on its thirty sixth anniversary of its Independence. "Belize has been our diplomatic partner since for 36 years, and our countries have continued to maintain friendly and cooperative relations. We are confident that these relations will be further strengthened and enhanced in the years to come," the statement read.

Masked men attack, rob, and stab woman in her own house
This morning around 4:45,police visited the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) where they saw 45-year-old Romie Anthony of La Croix Boulevard, Belize City suffering from stab wounds to her neck.

Dangriga man shot by police while attempting to escape
Around 9:25 p.m. on Independence eve, police were conducting a mobile patrol along Rear Pine Street and Castillo's Alley in Dangriga where they attempted to search Adolpho Nunez, 38, aka "Sand" who ran away upon seeing them.

13-year-old girl reported missing in Trial Farm, Orange Walk
Yesterday morning around 7:40, Silvia Marina Guillen,33, of Trial Farm Village, Orange Walk District reported to police that on Independence eve, her 13-year-old niece, Kenia Estelita Briceno went missing from Orange Walk Town, while working at the fair with her relatives.

Libertad man stabbed while socializing
On Tuesday, September 19, 2017, Corozal Police responded to a report in Libertad Village, Corozal District around 10 PM. Police saw Juan Rosado,33, Belizean laborer of Libertad village suffering with multiple stabbed wounds to the upper portion of his body.

Traffic accident on Burrel Boom road leaves three hospitalized
On Wednesday, September 20 around 12:10 pm, Ladyville police responded to a road traffic accident on the Burrell Boom, Hattieville Road about a quarter mile after the Fresh Pond junction. There, police saw a blue jeep patriot that was driven by Raymond Garbutt parked across the road with its entire front portion damaged.

Dominica to receive US $19 million for Hurricane relief efforts
Today, CCRIF SPC (formerly the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility) announced that Dominica will receive a payout of US $19,294,800 under its tropical cyclone policy following the passage of Hurricane Maria on September 19. This payout will be made within 14 days of the hurricane.

Canadian woman accused of kidnapping son has case adjourned until November
A Canadian woman accused of kidnapping her son and absconding to Belize for three years had her case adjourned until the end of November. Robin Leanne Greenway-Trockstad, 33, had taken her son and fled to Belize. According to an article from Lethbridge News, the Crown prosecutor says it handed over many documents to the defence and needs time to review them.

Blogs

Attempting to master Bocawina Falls
Through the Belize Tourism Board (BTB), I, along with a group of media colleagues spent a weekend exploring Hopkins and trying new and exciting adventures. Out of the 19 of us, 9 decided to brave the falls. I watched as everyone calmly took to the ropes and began their slow descent. Our guides Victor, Victor and Israel were more than clear with the instructions, but even they had seen enough people panic at the first step and forget the rules completely. The roar of splashing water as it gushed down the rockface reminded me that there was a 100-foot distance to the ground and pools below. When my turn came, I tried to remember the instructions. Slack on the left hand, pull with the right hand, wide-legged stance, lean back�back�LEAN BACK! The secret was really in leaning backwards. I slipped twice, but the time-tested ropes held, and this time, I picked myself up and kept going. The cold rushing waters actually felt refreshing, because trust me, I broke a sweat in those few minutes of effort!

San Pedro's 2017 JUMP UP Parade Celebrates 36 Years of Independence
Happy Independence Day! 36 years ago yesterday, an official ceremony was held. At the stroke of midnight, the UK's Prince Michael of Kent (representing the Queen) lowered the Union Jack and Belize's first Prime Minister, the Honorable George Price raised Belize's flag. September 21st is celebrated EVERYWHERE in the country with fireworks, 21 gun salutes and lots and lots of dancing and parading. San Pedro holds the JUMP UP parade. It is always BLAZING HOT (why do countries always seem to declare independence in the hottest months?) and SO MUCH FUN. It is one of my favorite days of the year. Our 2017 parade may have been the smallest one I've seen. Next year is an election and the parade seemed�politicized. It started with the UDP (the Red party and the current governing party) and ended with a HUGE PUP display (the blue).

Fun Facts for Kids about the Amazing Belize Rainforest
One of the most mysterious and least explored places on Planet Earth, the vast rainforest in Belize is home to an astounding variety of beautiful flowers, colorful birds, and exotic wildlife. Here are some fun facts about Belize's rainforest: It's Huge! More than half of mainland Belize is covered in rainforest. A rainforest is like a regular forest except that it gets lots and lots of rain (as you'd expect), meaning that plants and animals really love it. There are hundreds of different kinds of trees in the rainforest but also fragile, beautiful flowers like orchids. Did you know that the Black Orchid is the national flower of Belize?

Be Like Dooley Bear! When in Belize, call the hotline to report child abuse
Raise Me Up is an amazing non-profit organization here in San Pedro, Belize. They are always holding fundraisers to help the island children. In addition to running the food bank and the literacy programs, they are building the first women's and children's shelter here in San Pedro. They asked us if we could design the countrywide ad campaign to get the word out on how to report and hopefully stop child abuse. Of course, we were ready to help!

Operation Black Phoebe Blog #4
From I began birding I've always wanted to see a Black Phoebe. Something about this bird had me drawn to it, I mean it's a black flycatcher with a contrasting white belly who loves rapids a strange combination but cool none the less. I had some free time so I decided to use it to search for the Phoebe. This first step was to find where this little bird would be so I went to my trusty friend called eBird to look for recent sightings. As seen on the map above the Cayo district is definitely the place to go for Mr Phoebe. The latest sighting at that time was at the Xunantunich ferry so I was planning to go there but then I realized it's like a 3 hr bus ride which wasn't a problem I mean it's a Black Phoebe. To be sure I checked with the chief Roni to see if I had a good chance at Xunantunich. He told me to try Guanacaste National Park instead and if I wasn't successful there to try Ian Anderson's Caves Branch. So I adjusted my plans, I contacted my friend Jose from Guanacaste and we were set to meet up in the morning and start operation Black Phoebe.

International Sourcesizz

Over 100 artists to perform for One Island Hurricane Relief concert
Over 100 artists will be performing at a concert and telethon on Sunday to raise funds for those affected by recent hurricanes in the region, One Island will be held at the Queen's Park Oval from 1 pm to 1 am on Sunday, September 24, Republic Day. Speaking at the launch of the event on Tuesday, media personality Errol Fabien who initiated the concept, said he was encouraged to begin a movement for Barbuda after seeing the devastation caused by Hurricane Irma. "Having visited Barbuda and many of the islands up the Caribbean, I remembered always seeing products from Trinidad and Tobago readily available and sold in these countries, I knew then that we, T&T had to come together to help our brothers and sisters as we are all One Island," he said.

The Garifuna Collective, Featuring Umalali, to Perform at Flushing Town Hall
Flushing Town Hall will present The Garifuna Collective and Umalali on Friday, October 6. The Wall Street Journal calls their performances "a completely irresistible groove," with songs that celebrate the history and traditions of the Garifuna people, a unique culture based on the Caribbean coast of Central America that blends elements of West African and Native Caribbean heritage. The Garifuna Collective is a multi-generational ensemble featuring some of the most accomplished musicians of the Garifuna community. They aim to tell the stories of the women and daughters who, while working to support their families, sing traditional songs to pass some of their heritage down to future generations. Umalali, the Garifuna word for "voice," is a moving ensemble that captures the beauty and power of Garifuna female expression. The Garifuna Jazz Ensemble, led by Lucy Blanco, will open the show with joined by a cast of well-seasoned musicians. The Garifuna people are struggling to retain their unique language, music, and traditions in the face of globalization, and Garifuna artists are fighting to preserve their culture.

After Maria and Irma: Caribbean Tourism, Island by Island
Will increased cruise ship tourism without sane regulations in place to protect our dwindling manatee population spell their demise in Belize?
After two major hurricanes tore through the Caribbean in less than two weeks, some of the most idyllic - and tourism-dependent - destinations have been devastated. Ferocious storms are nothing new to these islands, but Hurricanes Maria and Irma were some of the most powerful Atlantic basin storms ever recorded. Cities, and some islands, are almost entirely in ruins. Puerto Rico and St. Croix, two places that were in good enough shape after Irma to be relief hubs for their neighbors, were subsequently pummeled by Maria. In Puerto Rico, at least 10 people died. The storm brought catastrophic flooding, destroyed homes and infrastructure, and left people without power, clean water and essential services. In Dominica, at least 15 people were killed. In the hardest-hit places, including Dominica, Puerto Rico, Barbuda, St. Martin and the U.S. Virgin Islands, a slow and arduous recovery lies ahead.

Videos

  • Travel Vlog | Belize 2017, 2min. Enjoy two minutes of the best summer ever in Belize!

  • Swimming with Sharks at Shark Ray Alley In Belize, 2.5min. In July 2017 Gavin and I took an 8 day long vacation to Caye Caulker,Belize. We did an all day excursion which included swimming with stingrays and sharks at Shark Ray Alley and also stopped to see all the beautiful coral.

  • Belize Independence Day Parade San Pedro, 2min.

  • Johnny Cakes, 1min. Get 'em while they're hot! Fresh Johnny Cakes! Grab the recipe here: https://therecipeisland.blog/2017/06/28/johnny-cakes/

  • Casava pone, 1/2min. Yuca Cake! Grab the recipe here -> https://therecipeisland.blog/yuca-cake/

  • Belize: An underwater world of mystery and danger, 1.5min. Belize has some of the most spectacular and thrilling scuba diving in the world. Its reef is home to sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, eels, octopus and an endless assortment of beautiful fish. those daring enough to venture beneath the waves will get to truly experience the wonder and mystery 60 to 80 feet down. Imagine sharing this world with sharks and sea turtles that are curious enough to approach and interact with visitors. It is peaceful and almost silent among the coral. For almost an hour, these divers saw the creatures of the reef up close and looked into the eyes of animals that most people will only see in pictures.

  • Magnolia Warbler, 2min.

  • White-collared Manakin, 3min.

  • The Birds of Belize, Version 12, 234 species, complete DVD, 57min.

  • Pinnated Bittern, 1.5min.

  • THE OFFICIAL 21st CEREMONIE TOOK PLACE WITH SPEECHESS IN ORANGE WALK, 10min.

  • HUNDREDS FLOCK TO ORANGE WALK TO WISH BELIZE HAPPY 36TH BIRTHDAY, 4min.

  • BELIZE'S INDEPENDENCE DAY SPEECHES, 10min.

  • Help a soul day Belize, 3min. Have an inside look at our day here at PHS. This video shows how the Siene Bight Outreach Program functions and showcases all the fantastic volunteers. Would you like to help out PHS?

  • Belize PSA, 1min.

  • Scuba Diving Belize, Shark Ray Alley, 2min. Scuba diving and snorkeling in Belize between Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye at Shark Ray Alley, January 27, 2015.

  • Los Cayos de Belice | Belize, 2min.

  • Lamanai Mayan Ruins | Belize, 2min. I went to Belize and Guatemala with EF tours over my last spring break and the Lamanai Mayan Ruins was just one of many stop!

  • San Pedro Belize Sept 21st 2017 Parade Bruk Down, 1min. Go ladies! Independence Day Parade.

  • The Great Blue Hole, Belize footage 9/9/2017, 10min. Mike Bletsch and I on another adventure to the Great Blue Hole of Belize.. Amazing place.. Bucket list dive. Did it.. Great Experience going to 140 feet to see the gigantic Stalagmites that they take you to on this dive.

  • Independence day in Belize. Parade-masquerade in San - Ignacio, 5min.