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The San Pedro Sun

Veteran journalist Janelle Chanona to lead Oceana in Belize
Former journalist and newscaster Janelle Chanona is the new leader of Oceana in Belize. The announcement was officially made on January 6th, via a press release from Oceana’s office in Belize. Chanona replaces Attorney Audrey Matura-Shepherd who vacated her position on August 22, 2013. The new country leader of Oceana joins one of the world’s largest international ocean conservation groups. The former Belize newscaster and Belmopan native will lead Oceana’s efforts to protect Belize’s barrier reef. Chief Executive Officer of Oceana Andrew Sharpless is quoted as saying that “We are very lucky to have Janelle join Oceana… She has the right combination of skills and passion to be an excellent leader and to help Oceana win policy victories that protect Belize’s amazing barrier reef and its marine resources.” Chanona is a graduate of St. John’s College in Belize, of Loyola College in Baltimore in the United States and received a Master’s degree with distinction from Nottingham Trent University in the United Kingdom.

Farmers impacted as a result of unfavorable weather conditions
The widespread impact and sustained flooding is described as the worst adversity to have affected farmers nationally and even more severely in the Belize District. Increased and continuous rain combined with the inability of channels to carry off floodwater discharge has resulted in the damage of key agricultural products and areas inundated. The unfavorable conditions have resulted in pasture loss, decreased livestock production as well as increased pest and disease in key local agricultural commodities. In response to the challenges caused by climatic conditions the Ministry of Natural Resource and Agriculture has committed itself to providing assistance in the form of animal feed and some agricultural inputs to severely impacted farmers in highly vulnerable agricultural zones.The planned action was drafted as a result of feedbacks from farm visits, farmer meetings and extensive consultation with national counterparts resulting in an identified and prioritized strategy to help alleviate the existing conditions. The proposed intervention will commence on Saturday 4th January with the provision of cattle feed to livestock producers in the Crooked Tree and Blackburn livestock productive zones. On Wednesday January 8th assistance will be provided to the communities of the Belize River Valley and on Friday January 10th the communities along the old northern highway (Maskall zone).

Snorkeling is a ‘Splash” at the Silk Cayes!
Some experiences stay with you long after they’re over – memories tiding you over until you can relive the moment once again. Thoughts of vibrantly colored fish, curious sharks and even a territorial turtle or two, mingling with spotted eagle rays and southern stingrays swimming through iridescent blue waters certainly brightens up the day. Where did this experience take place? At the Silk Cayes off the coast of Placencia in Southern Belize! The Silk Cayes (also known as Queen Cayes) are two beautiful patches of white sand dotted with coconut trees, and rings of coral just waiting for the snorkel expedition of a lifetime. Taking us on that journey was the 2012 Tour Operator of the Year Splash Dive Center. When we finally arrived at one of the picturesque islands after a 45-minute boat ride, there was no dock awaiting us. The boat simply slowed down and pulled up to the brilliant white sandy shore. Just ahead, we could see a small lemon shark cruising, watching our arrival and quickly darting away when we began to alight.

Ambergris Today

Belize Farmers Impacted by Unfavorable Weather to Receive Assistance by Government
The widespread impact and sustained flooding is described as the worst adversity to have affected farmers nationally and even more severely in the Belize District. Increased and continuous rain combined with the inability of channels to carry off floodwater discharge has resulted in the damage of key agricultural products and areas inundated. The unfavorable conditions have resulted in pasture loss, decreased livestock production as well as increased pest and disease in key local agricultural commodities. In response to the challenges caused by climatic conditions the Ministry of Natural Resource and Agriculture has committed itself to providing assistance in the form of animal feed and some agricultural inputs to severely impacted farmers in highly vulnerable agricultural zones. The planned action was drafted as a result of feedbacks from farm visits, farmer meetings and extensive consultation with national counterparts resulting in an identified and prioritized strategy to help alleviate the existing conditions.

Puma in our midst – Keeping community and wildlife safe in San Pedro
On Friday, December 20, 2013, there was a great deal of excitement following eyewitness reports of a puma south of San Pedro Town. While Sanpedranos are very proud of their marine and land creatures, there was also, understandably a great deal of concern and fear about this uncommon and large predator in a populated, residential area. Mayor Daniel Guerrero did the right thing and immediately called the Belize Wildlife Conservation Networks’ (BWCN) Wildlife Advice Hotline for advice and assistance. This hotline is for the general public to report injured, orphaned, nuisance or abused wildlife. When a response is necessary they partner with the Forest Department and any relevant wildlife organization to ensure the best outcome for the caller and animal concerned. Because this is a voluntary organization with no paid members, funds were sought privately to fly a team to San Pedro to investigate as it appeared to be a matter of urgency. Unfortunately, the puma had disappeared by the time they had arrived and due to heavy rains; there was very little evidence that allowed them to gather information about the puma.

Flashbacks: Mexico’s Smallest Man in San Pedro -Margarito Esparza Nevares
The Mexico’s smallest man has been to San Pedro. He is Margarito Esparza Nevares born on June 10, 1936 in Sinaloa Mexico and is 27.5 inches small (about 2 feet). He is a well rounded artist having performed as a comedian, singer, composer and television conductor. Because of his small stature, he is known as “ El Enano Margarito” (Margarito the Dwarf). Margarito was well known at the time and it was Mayor Gilberto “Chico” Gomez who arranged for his appearance in San Pedro to perform on the occasion of the anniversary of San Pedro’s Township. The irony of life in that “Chico” (Small) brought the smallest man to San Pedro. Needless to say, he put on a first class performance that delighted everyone with his singing, guitar and comedy. Today Margarito is living in Monterrey, Mexico,is married and has three children, ten grandchildren and is still working in the television media.

Pic of the Week: Nothing Beats a Great Sailing Day in Ambergris Caye, Belize
There is nothing better than a fun day of sailing in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize. Whether it is for a snorkeling trip to Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley, day trip to visit nearby Caye Caulker, Barbeque picnic in North Ambergris Caye or a spectacular sunset sail, the packages offered are fun-filled and always make for great memories. Pictured here is a shot of Central Park in San Pedro Town as La Gaviota sailboat arrives back to the island after a superb sailing trip.

Misc Belizean Sources

Janelle Chanona becomes Oceana's new leader in Belize
Former newscaster joins ocean conservation group, pledges to win campaigns to protect Belize's reef. Oceana, the world's largest international ocean conservation group, announced today that Janelle Chanona has joined Oceana as its new leader for Belize. The former Belize newscaster and Belmopan native will lead Oceana's efforts to protect Belize's barrier reef. "We are very lucky to have Janelle join Oceana," noted Oceana CEO Andrew F. Sharpless. "She has the right combination of skills and passion to be an excellent leader and to help Oceana win policy victories that protect Belize's amazing barrier reef and its marine resources." Chanona, a former reporter and anchor with News 5 in Belize, most recently ran her own media and production company. She has produced documentaries for several environmental groups in Belize. Chanona is a graduate of St. Johns College in Belize, of Loyola College in Baltimore in the United States and received a Masters degree with distinction from Nottingham Trent University in the United Kingdom. A passionate diver, she is a frequent visitor to Belize's barrier reef, the largest such reef in the Western Hemisphere.

Belize Electricity Limited - Power Plants and SWOT Analysis, 2013 Update
Summary The report contains a detailed description of the power generation companys business operations, history, corporate strategy, and business structure. This report contains a detailed SWOT analysis, information on key employees (executives), and major products and services. Scope - Major Power Plants (assets) - summarized and detailed information about the power plants (assets). - Operational Metrics (capacity, generation, revenue, sales, number of consumers). - Business description - A detailed description of the companys operations and business divisions. - Corporate strategy - summarization of the companys business strategy. - SWOT analysis - A detailed analysis of the companys strengths, weakness, opportunities and threats. - Company history - Progression of key events associated with the company. - Major products and services - A list of major products, services and brands - Key employees - A list of the key executives and personnel heading key departments/functions. - Executive biographies - A brief summary of the executives employment history. - Financial deals - Coverage of key financial deals from 2006 onwards, depending upon information availability - Important locations and subsidiaries - A list of key locations and subsidiaries of the company, including contact details.

Belizeans with dual citizenships need a political party in Belize
By Wellington C. Ramos When Belize became independent on September 21, 1981, under the People’s United Party (PUP), natural born Belizeans who became citizens of other countries and obtained dual citizenships lost their Belizean citizenship. The Belizeans who possessed dual citizenships with the United States brought this to the attention of the United Democratic Party (UDP) during the political campaign of 1984. The United Democratic Party defeated the People’s United Party in the election of that year by a margin of 21 to 7. This was more than enough votes to amend the constitution of Belize. The UDP amended the Belize constitution to reinstate the citizenships of natural born Belizeans to get passports and some benefits but there were ambiguities in the constitution and the laws of Belize dealing with other fundamental citizenship rights. Some of these rights include voting by proxy, running for political office and holding other offices in Belize while still maintaining their dual citizenships.

San Pedrito gets Hard Core! Patching up the big holes... (10 photos)
Thank you, Mayor Daniel Guerrero...I like your idea, more hardcore less fireworks. Your priorities are sound!!

More streets get Hard Core Material. Sea Grape Drive, Princess Drive and San Juan Area. (14 photos)

Masters Degree Scholarship Opportunity

Fatal accident on the Southern Road heading to Placencia. (4 photos)
Mein thats so sad ... prayers goes out to the family who have to deal with this tragedy.. May God have mercy

Yoga and Coffee at Soul Project
En-lighten Up Yoga is starting up again Friday at the Soul Project. They'll also be having their 'yogi coffee house' after yoga. Yoga is one way to achieve your new year's resolutions. "Starting up This Friday!!!! Look forward to seeing everyone there!!!"

Motorcycle and passenger bus collide.
There are reports of a road traffic accident on the Southern Highway. Reports are that it happened earlier tonight at about mile 2 on the Southern Highway. Indications are that a motorcclist crashed into the rear of a parked passenger bus that was on the right hand side of the road. The first pictures from the scene show the impact of the crash, with the mangled motorcycle and the injured rider sprawled on the pavement.

Missionary doctors offer free clinics in Cayo villages
A group of missionary doctors is currently offering free, basic medical services, for residents of Georgeville and surrounding areas. The base for the free medical clinics is the Shining Light Baptist Church on the outkirts of Georgeville. Persons wishing to access these free clinics can just show up at the church. The free clinics in Georgeville will wrap up at 5 pm today, after which the group will move on to Buena Vista village which is near Spanish Lookout.

New Paediatric Intensive Care Unit at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital
Join our friends at the Challenge Gobie Foundation as they journey from Punta Gorda Town to Belmopan to raise BZ$1,000,000 for the New Paediatric Intensive Care Unit at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital! Find them on Facebook for more information and Register today. Registration closes on Thursday, January 9th.

Channel 7

Woman Hacked To Death In South
Tonight, we report on the first 2 murders for 2014, 2 of them involve brutal choppings, and both of them happened over the weekend in the Banana Belt. We start first with 41 year-old Maria Domitilia Perez, a Naturalized Belizean businesswoman of Benque Viejo Town. She was found on early Sunday morning on the Green Gold Banana Farm, located just off the Placencia Road. She had been savagely chopped to death most of the injuries to her head. Today, 7News spoke to the police officer commanding the Intermediate Southern Formation, who told us about what police found: Superintendent Alton Alvarez - Officer Commanding, Intermediate Southern Formation "Police responded to a report of a woman that was seen lying motionless somewhere within the Green Gold area in the Stann Creek judicial district. Independence Police responded and they came upon the said female lying motionless. The female has received multiple machete wounds to the head and body. On the scene the police recovered a cell phone. The cell phone was found on the person of the deceased and we believe that that cell phone is the property of the deceased."

Man Chopped To Death In Trio Village
Police are also asking for help from the public in locating the main suspect in the murder of 25 year-old Guatemalan Rene Arturo Perez. He was found chopped to death last week Friday in the Trio Village, near to the banana farm that he works. The last time he was seen alive, he was with one Donaldo, on Thursday night. He left his employer's banana farm, and on the next, day, his body was discovered. The officer commanding ISF told us today that this Donaldo, a Guatemalan who is still believed to be in the country, is their main suspect because they found evidence which suggests his involvement: Superintendent Alton Alvarez - Officer Commanding, Intermediate Southern Formation "On Thursday sometime around 8:30am Independence police received information with regards to a body that was found in the Trio area; that would be 5 miles east of Trio Village; that's on the Southern Highway leading towards from where we are at heading towards the Toledo District. This body was discovered by a concern citizen within that area. He is the farm owner in that area and he has called the police with respect to information. The police responded and came upon the body of one Rene Arturo Perez, 25 years old. He is a Guatemalan national. Apparently he has been working within that area as the assistant to that farmer that had called."

Teachers Bristle At PM’s Month Mix Up
One of the key features of the Prime Minister's New Year's Message was the raise of pay for teachers and public officers. The PM spoke of the increase in glowing terms and said it would be "substantial." That was all good and well - but it seems he mis-spoke when he talked about the date of implementation for the raise. The Prime Minister said it would be paid in August - but he told the union that it would be July. Now, it's only a technicality, because the effective date would still be April first - but the teachers say it is an important and consequential difference. Now, it would seem to be the kind of thing that could be cleared up with a simple phone call, but today the unions flexed with a press conference to say the PM is sending a wrong signal:.... Luke Palacio, National President - BNTU "The Prime Minister's New Year's message, he indicated that the salary adjustment would be effective in August, retro-active to April 1st 2014. Our understanding and agreement so far with the Prime Minister before his new year's message was that this salary adjustment would have been come effective on the 1st July, retro-active to April of 2014. We do take umbrage and very much concern that the Prime Minister would use his new year's message to give us this - what we consider to be a wrong signal."

Man Shot In Boom
A man was shot at the horse track in Burrell Boom on Saturday night with a nine millimeter pistol. At about 11:30, 28 year old Adrian Myvette was riding a bicycle when he was shot once to his chest and twice to his midsection by a man on a motorbike. The gunman sped past him, and left Myvette for dead at the entrance to the racetrack. Fortunately, are residents heard the gunfire and called police, who rushed Myvette to the KHMH. Now, it's the kind of thing that happens all too often in the city, but very rarely in small rural villages such as Burrell Boom. Today the officer commanding for those rural areas told us two persons are detained:.. Supt. Chris Noble, O/C Ladyville "That incident we do have very minimal information on. We know that somebody is at the Karl Heusner Hospital, the hospital authorities there are doing their best to deal with him. We have 2 persons in custody, we are continuing our investigation and what we have so far is that we are following up on a shooting incident in Burrell Boom."

Older Man Knocked Down On Southern Highway
Independence police are investigating a fatal accident that killed 61 year-old Juan Oh, a resident of Santa Rosa Village who was knocked down on the Southern Highway this morning before five thirty. 18 year-old bus conductor Freddy Acosta was on his motorcycle and he was heading toward South Stann Creek. He told police that while traveling at mile 23, he saw Oh riding on his bicycle. When he was about to overtake Oh, the elderly man allegedly swerved in front of his motorcycle, and he couldn't avoid a collision. Oh was run over, and he suffered severe bodily injuries, and he was rushed to the Southern Regional Hospital. The doctors tried their best, but he succumbed just before midday today. Acosta has been served with a notice of intended prosecution, and police will be verifying his version of events with persons who allegedly witnessed the accident.

Brian Townsend’s Funeral
Canadian Brian Townsend has been cremated, and now memorial services are being planned. On Thursday, with the facilitation of the Canadian Embassy in Guatemala, representatives of the family went to San Benito Guatemala to identify the decomposed body. It had been found in the Macal River on the Guatemalan side of Arenal Village on December 27th. One of those who went was Gelder Gamboa, a pastor for the 7th day Adventist Church who was assigned to assist the family since Townsend was a church brother. He told us that it was a grim mission - but it gave the family some closure:.. Gelder Gamboa "We went as a team to San Benito to identify the body. The body was 60% decomposed. He had multiple wounds on the body, but certainly we were able to identify brother Brain, it was him. From there the Guatemalan counterparts brought the body to Belize, where his son also identified him. Certainly it was Brian. It brought a closure to him. His body has been cremated and on this Sunday 12th, we will be having a funeral service at Valley of Peace Seven Day Adventist Church and then the remains will be guided back to Canada for the 19th of January for a funeral service by the family."

Modern Cigarettes A Commercial Dispute
Unless you frequent the Corozal Free Zone, you probably haven't heard of Modern Cigarettes. But, apparently the Chinese Brand is very popular with Mexicans, and now one company called Benque Duty and Tax Free wants to make it similarly popular west of the border in Guatemala. But that's become the subject of a bitter commercial dispute - one that's become so heated even the police got involved. The subject of dispute is a recent shipment of one thousand of what are called master packs of Modern Cigarettes. It's a lot of cigarettes, one full 40 foot container imported into Belize from Hong Kong. On Friday the container was headed to the Benque Viejo Free Zone when, acting on information, police stopped it at Roaring Creek. Now, Customs is the department which usually deals with containers, not police. But police got info that the container was suspect, and so they stopped and searched it.

Belize Woman Allegedly Ran Red In Chetumal
Belizeans drive freely in Chetumal - so much so, that it can seem like second nature. But, those traffic lights can be tricky and that's just what a Belizean driver who ran a red light found out. News reports from Chetumal say that Yara Oliva ran a red in her Isuzu Rodeo causing another driver in a Chevrolet Malibu to crash into the side of her vehicle. Mexican authorities say the collision caused over 15 thousand dollars in damages. The Mexican driver Edgar Manuel Medina Flores says his light was green and he crossed the intersection, and could not avoid hitting Oliva's vehicle as it ran through the intersection. The impact sent the Rode careening into the garage of a nearby house and crashed into a wall.

Major Road Upgrades Coming
Two major road contracts were signed today in Belmopan. They will benefit the Western and Hummingbird highways. On the Western, there will be major upgrading of signage and reflectors, while on the Hummingbird, 7 miles of intolerably bad roads will be re surfaced. CEO in the Ministry of Economic Development, Yvonne Hyde explained to the Government Press Office:.. Yvonne Hyde, CEO - Ministry of Economic Development "The first contract that we signed is geared towards to the provision "furniture," putting up signs, marking the road, putting in mile posts and ensuring that the road in terms of the laws is properly put together." Reporter "And these are for what area?" Yvonne Hyde, CEO - Ministry of Economic Development "The signage and the furniture will be along the highway itself. You can't mark part of the road and don't have the other part marked, so we will mark the entire thing and the signs will be along the 50 miles of road; from Belize City, the round-about at the Cemetery up to the cutoff at Roaring Creek - that the 50 miles."

Janelle C Is New OCEANA VP
Audrey Matura Shepherd left OCEANA Belize in august, and since then OCEANA International has been going through applications for country vice president. Today, last week's rumour was confirmed; the new vice president is well known television news reporter Janelle Chanona. And while Chanona is a journalist by profession, in a sit down interview with 7news today, she told us why she is fit for the job. Janelle Chanona, VP OCEANA "I really didn't think about it until I was asked to apply and that happened after Ocean's last press conference in Belize and it really came down to wanting to be a part of change. I just want to make sure that the resources that we do have are still here well into the future, if not healthier. It really was a no brainer after a while." "I really loved what I was doing. The private production work was really exciting for me and I love going out and meeting people. I did a lot of environmental projects as a private consultant, but this wasn't a bog leap for me; I want to do good. I want to make positive change." Monica Bodden "I know Mrs. Matura filled some big shoes. What's the plan you have for Oceana?"

Manslaughter For Man Who Knocked Down Elderly Woman
In October of last year, 7News told you about 68 year old British National Patricia Johnson, who was knocked down and killed near mile 2 and a half on the Northern Highway. Well tonight, 31 year-old Jason Grant, the driver who hit her, is out on bail after he was taken to Magistrate's Court today. Grant was arraigned before Magistrate Dale Cayetano this afternoon on charges of manslaughter by negligence; causing death by careless conduct; driving without due care and attention; driving an unlicensed motor vehicle; driving a motor vehicle without third party risk insurance; and using a motor vehicle without consent from the owner. He was granted bail of $5,000 which he was able meet, and he must return to court on March 17.

Hilux Hand Over
On Christmas Eve we told you about the lucky school teacher who won the brand new Toyota Hilux that was being raffled. Samuel Nicholson bought only one of the hundred dollar tickets and he did so for charity; he didn't even know what his ticket number was. And so today, after all the paper work and transfers were done, this unlikely winner got the keys for his new pickup which was delivered right to his school at EP Yorke. He told us he's still in shock.. Samuel Nicholson, winner "Actually, to be honest I am still in amazement. I never thought that something like this would have happened to me. I bought the ticket and now actually seeing the vehicle in front of me I could say that I actually won this vehicle. I am still in a bit of shock, but I'm getting there." Jules Vasquez "You don't drive standard and its a 5 speed standard. Is this something that concerns you and might you just want to hand it over to me now?"

More News: Scroll up from here

Channel 5

2 murders in the south: a woman is hacked to death
There have been two murders reported in Belize for 2014. Both of them occurred in the south and both victims were viciously chopped to death. The first murder occurred on [...]

…And a Guatemalan is chopped to death outside of Trio Community
  The first murder of the year also occurred within the jurisdiction of the Intermediate Southern Formation. Like Maria Perez, the victim was savagely chopped to death and left bleeding [...]

Burrell Boom resident is ambushed as he headed home
  There was more violence over the weekend. In Burrell Boom, eight expended shells were found at the scene of a shooting just before midnight on Saturday. The victim, Adrian [...]

B.N.T.U. comes out swinging on long-awaited salary adjustments
The Belize National Teachers Union came out swinging this morning on a number of issues. The union took umbrage to the prime minister’s recent New Year’s address, in which he [...]

Palacio says pending increments and salary adjustments are 2 different things
According to Luke Palacio, the fixed date was set by government and the delay, he says, needs to be explained by the prime minister.  Furthermore, Palacio maintains that there is [...]

OCEANA names Janelle Chanona as its Belize Vice President
After several months without a country manager, following the resignation of Audrey Matura-Shepherd, OCEANA in Belize has a new vice president.  Former Channel Five reporter and freelancer Janelle Chanona assumed [...]

Chanona says she will advocate for the protection of Belize’s natural resources
Admittedly, the bar which has been set extremely high by Chanona’s predecessor is a hard act to follow. And Chanona says she does have the best interest of the country [...]

B.N.T.U. reaffirms its support for the Occupational Safety and Health Bill
Back to the Belize National Teachers’ Union…During the last house meeting on December twelfth, executives from the National Trade Union Congress of Belize were ejected from the gallery after vocally [...]

Minister Balderamos-Garcia steps in to assist Lake Gardens Community
On Friday, a group of irate residents living along the Old Northern Highway threatened to block access to the road if businessman Roque Matus did not address the issue of [...]

Car washer charged for theft
A car washer, who works at the parking lot located behind the Belize City Magistrate’s Court, was today in front of the court to answer to a single charge of [...]

Electrician arraigned for October 2013 fatal traffic accident
Also in the court, an electrician who was involved in a traffic accident back in October 2013 was today charged with several traffic offenses in the Belize City Magistrate’s Court. [...]

George Price Highway to get much needed facelift
Tonight, there is some extremely welcome news for motorists and commuters who frequent the George Price Highway between Belize City and the capital. That stretch of road has been responsible [...]

Body of Canadian Missionary brought back to Belize and cremated
Around one p.m. on Thursday, the body of sixty-four year old Brian Townsend, a former missionary living in Valley of Peace was exhumed in Flores, Peten. Townsend’s body was found [...]

E.P. Yorke teacher drives off in a spanking new 2014 Toyota Hilux
Samuel Nicholson, a high school teacher at E.P. Yorke, is the lucky winner of a 2014 Toyota Hilux.  He won the annual Rotary Christmas Raffle after purchasing a single ticket [...]

Football, softball and cycling in Sports Monday
Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.   Week 13 in the Belikin Cup brought a pivotal showdown to the MCC Grounds yesterday as FC Belize in [...]

LOVE FM

Electrician Arraigned Following Fatal Accident
The police’s investigation into a traffic accident that occurred in October last year in which 68-year-old, American national, Patricia Johnson was knocked down and killed has resulted in the arrest of 31-year-old, Jason Grant, an electrician of Los Lagos. Grant appeared today before Magistrate Dale Cayetano and he was arraigned on 6 offences. He was charged with manslaughter by negligence, drove motor vehicle without due care and attention, causing death by careless conduct, drove an unlicensed motor vehicle, drove motor vehicle not covered by third party insurance and used motor vehicle without the consent of the owner. No plea was taken because the offences are indictable. He was released on a bail of $5,000 and his case was adjourned until March 17. The incident occurred on October 22 between miles 3 and 4 on Phillip Goldson Highway. According to reports, Johnson was crossing the highway when she was knocked down by a black Honda motorcycle driven by Grant. She received injuries to her head and body and died on the spot.

Another Meeting Date Set; Will Sugar Crop Season Start Soon?
Belize Sugar Industry, BSI, has positively responded to a letter from the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers’ Association requesting for a meeting. The date of the meeting is set for Wednesday January 8, at the BSI Staff club. On the agenda are the same issues that started to be discussed on Dec 23, 2013, when talks between the two stakeholders resumed after almost three months of cold relations between the two. BSI is looking forward to cane farmers agreeing on a date for the crop season to commence and agree that once the crop starts there will be no interruption. In the other hand, the BSCFA has said it will not agree to start the crop if first BSI does not legally compromise to make payment for bagasse. Last week Thursday the BSCFA sent a letter to the Prime Minister requesting for his intervention for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between BSI and BSCFA where both stakeholders agree to start crop the earliest possible but under certain conditions. Up until news time there has not been any official word coming from the PM’s office, but LOVE NEWS understands that when he spoke last Friday with a BSCFA director the PM said he will not agree to sign any MOU.

Belizean Woman Causes Collision in Chetumal
A Belizean woman is in trouble on the Mexican side after failing to heed at a red light in Chetumal, Quintana Roo. Reports indicate that Yara Oliva was driving an SUV in that municipality when the incident occurred which caused a traffic collision and the destruction of a concrete garage fence. The incident happened on Sunday, January 5 at around 2:30 in the afternoon. It is reported that Oliva was speeding on Avenida Primo de Verdad when she ran the red light at the intersection with Calle Independencia thus causing the collision between the Isuzu Rodeo and a Chevrolet vehicle driven by Edgar Manuel Flores. As a result, Flores sustained an injury to his nose and was taken to seek medical attention. According to Mexican Police, the estimated total of the damages caused is one hundred thousand pesos or seventeen thousand Belize dollars. Meanwhile the owner of the concrete fence that was destroyed is asking for its replacement.

Doctors Predict Full Recovery of Teen Injured at Sea
A teenager who was involved in a boating incident on Sunday in Corozal Town is said to have regained consciousness and is expected to make a full recovery. 19 year-old Ishak Trapp reportedly went for a boat ride in the Corozal Sea along with relatives and a friend in a boat. Reports are that the youths noticed that the boat was sinking and they attempted to bail it out. The vessel, however, capsized before they could reach to safety and the youths fell overboard. Trapp, who is unable to swim, went under the water and was eventually pulled up in an unconscious state. He was taken to the Corozal Community Hospital and then transferred to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. Today the youth regained consciousness and while he does not remember the incident, he is said to be responding well to questions. His family has declined comment and says that doctors have projected a full recovery for him.

Police Officers Assaulted In Line of Duty
Two police officers were attacked in separate incidents while in the line of duty in Orange Walk. The first incident occurred last Thursday when police officers responded to a report of domestic dispute in Trial Farm Village. Upon arrival at the scene, the police officers spoke with Alicia Wagner who told the officers that one John Wagner had inflicted a wound to her right elbow. Later during the day, while on police mobile patrol, the accused was identified and was approached by PC Zenubio Coc who informed Wagner that he will be detained. In insulting words, Wagner told PC Coc that he won’t go anywhere. Another officer, Abel Perez who went to render assistance was pushed in the chest by Wagner. Both police officers managed to subdue Wagner placing him under arrest and transporting him to the Orange Walk police station. While being transported Wagner allegedly threatened PC Mendez telling him “I know you good; you ride a motorcycle; I will kill you.” He was later charged for assaulting a police officer, insulting words, resisting arrest and using threatening words towards PC Coc.

Victim Identifies Tablet Thief
21 year-old Kenrick Longsworth, a resident of Castle Street, was charged with theft when he appeared today in Magistrate’s Court. He pled not guilty to the charge and Senior Magistrate, Sharon Fraser offered bail of a thousand dollars and adjourned his case until March third. The complainant, 19 year old Marianni Westby, reported to the police that on January first she was walking on Douglas Jones Street, heading towards New Road when a young man grabbed her tablet and ran. She said the tablet has a value of 300 dollars. While she was making the report, Longsworth was brought to the police station and she identified him as the person who stole her tablet. As a result, Longsworth was charged.

Senior Citizen Dies Following Traffic Incident
Independence Village police are investigating the death of a senior citizen which occurred between Saturday night and Sunday morning. Correspondent Harry Arzu has the details on this. HARRY ARZU “A senior citizen of Santa Rosa Village in the Stann Creek District succumbed to his injuries as the result of a traffic accident which occurred early this morning. The victim has been identified as 61-year-old, Juan Oh. Police investigations revealed that at about 5:50 this morning Oh was riding his bicycle towards Santa Cruz Village on the Southern highway and upon reaching mile 23 he was knocked off his bicycle by 18-year-old, Freddie Acosta who was traveling in the same direction on a motorcycle. Police say that Acosta reported that Oh strayed into his path which caused the accident. As a consequence Oh sustained head and body injuries and was transported to the Southern Regional Hospital for treatment but died sometime this afternoon. Acosta has now been served with a notice of intended prosecution while the body of Oh awaits a postmortem examination at the said medical facility morgue.”

Oceana’s New VP In Place
Janelle Chanona is the new leader for Oceana Belize. Today is Chanona’s first day as the Vice President of the world’s largest international ocean conservation group. Oceana’s CEO, Andrew F. Sharpless says that Chanona has the right combination of skills and passion to be an excellent leader and to help Oceana win policy victories that protect Belize’s amazing barrier reef and its marine resources. Chanona will lead Oceana’s campaigns in Belize which includes efforts to stop offshore drilling, as well as efforts to promote responsible fishing practices in Belize’s waters. Today, Chanona told us that she is ready and very capable in carrying on with Oceana’s battles. JANELLE CHANONA “I am a Belizean and I am a Belizean that loves what we have in Belize and I think at the end of the day that passion, as you know, you can’t get around that; if you don’t really truly care for something then no matter what they do to you, you can’t force it. So, I think if anything, if I can presuppose that’s what I think they liked about me, that I am positive about how much it means to me and that I want to make sure that it is as healthy as possible for my niece and my nephews and for your family, to make sure that it is as good as it can be.”

Veteran News Reporter Replaces Matura As Oceana’s VP
Floyd Neal acted as Audrey Matura-Shepherd’s right hand when she was the Vice President of Oceana Belize. Today, Love News confirmed that Neal has been fired from his position as the Administrative Director. Neal told Love News that his termination did not come as a surprise because a couple months ago, he realized that his job was being advertised on a website. Neal received his walking papers yesterday and was told that his post was being made redundant. Neal, however, is not making a fuss about it and told us that he will move on and hopes to find another job. And as for who will take over Matura-Shepherd’s post, we understand that former veteran news reporter, Janelle Chanona will do so and her first day in office is this coming Monday. We could not reach Chanona for confirmation.

PlusTV

Devastated Family, Community and Friends Mourn Brian Townsend’s Goodbye
Canadian Seventh Day Adventist missionary 64 year old Brian Townsend’s decomposed body was found in Peten, Guatemala, a few days after his disappearance from his home in Valley of Peace, Cayo District. The news is equally devastating for Townsend’s family and his son Kory who coordinated the search and...

Teachers Ask for Protection from Government
The BNTU this morning also commented on other pressing labour issues promoted by parent body the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB), several of whose members were famously ejected from the House of Representatives in December after loudly calling for the implementation of the Occupational Health and Safety...

Teachers’ Union Clarifies Salary Proposal
The Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU) has been pressing for a salary adjustment from 2005 – and after comments by Prime Minister Dean Barrow in his New Year’s Address to the Nation, it would seem they are on the verge of getting it. But before we get into the...

Assassin Machete-man Kills a Guatemalan National in Toledo
Meanwhile, Independence Police are seeking a man known to them as Donaldo, also known as “Tatereto,” in connection to the chopping death of 25 year old Rene Arturo Perez. Here again is PlusTV correspondent Harry Arzu reporting from the Stann Creek District. Harry Arzu- Dangriga Correspondent “Independence police continue...

Benquena Businesswoman Maria Perez Chopped to Death in Southern Belize
A woman was victim to a savage attack in the Stann Creek village. 41 year old Maria Perez was found with severe chop wounds to her body on a farm located off the Placencia Road. Police investigations have revealed that yesterday, at about 4:00pm, Perez arrived in the village...

Enjoying Relationship With God Brings Every Joy of Life
Our verse for this week is taken from….. Psalm 20:4” May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.” -And that’s the news. From all of us here at PlusTV…Have a blessed new year 2014!

Jennifer Tillet out on Bail
Since Friday night, 33 year old Jennifer Tillett of Jane Usher Boulevard is out on bail of $3,000 after being charged for burglary. She was arraigned on Thursday for breaking into the home of Farima Gordon on Fabers’ Road around two Thursday morning. Nothing was taken, and in court...

BAY Complies with no Random Cleaning of the Independence Park
Members of the Belmopan Active Youths also known as BAY got down and dirty earlier today and spent their Friday cleaning up the Independence Park in Belmopan. Project Director for the Belmopan Active Youths Sharlette Lopez, explained to us that today’s clean up on the park is no random...

Blogs

Ka’ana Resort: A 5-Star Boutique Hotel in Belize…Really.
Ka’ana Resort just outside San Ignacio is a relatively new one and one that I found pretty unique for Belize. It was designed by two super star Irish brothers, Ronan and Colin Hannan. I’ve never met them but after reading a bit about them in BusinessWeek, I can describe them with cool words I never get to use…like urbane and jet-setting. I stayed at Ka’ana for one night in November and was really hoping to meet the duo. But it wasn’t to be. They were probably at the Four Seasons Marrakesh or flying fishing on Christmas Island, perhaps sunning with Gwenyth in St. Barths. Next time… Ka’ana Resort is billed as a 5-star boutique hotel. A tall order for lodging in the Belizean jungle but the resort, set just outside of San Ignacio on the main road, surprised me in lots of ways. From the dual yoga mats provided in my walk-in closet to the beautiful turn down service, the resort is beautifully done and the final touches, impeccable. My pictures don’t do it justice…honestly…but here they are.

Belize Tops Caribbean for Decline in Murders
The Lodge at Chaa Creek welcomes news that, while the rest of the Caribbean has seen an increase in murders during 2013, Belize is the only Caribbean and Central American country where the murder rate has dropped – and substantially. Chaa Creek’s Safety and Security Manager Emil Bradley pointed to a January 3 2013 Belize 7 News report quoting recently compiled figures on crime in the region, and said this is good news for Belize’s fledgling tourism industry. “While one murder is way too many, Belize’s drop in crime, and especially in murders, is excellent news and bodes well for the future,” Mr Bradley said, “We have to commend both the police and the public for a great result in 2013,” he added. Mr Bradley also said that it was important to note that violent crime in the region rarely impacts tourists. “Unfortunately, it occurs among the disadvantaged in society and in the drug trade,” he said. While 7 News cautioned that their figures were preliminary and not yet finalised, the statistics put Belize well ahead of the region with a decreased, rather than increased murder rate last year. The figures coincide with those released by Belize’s Amandala newspaper late last year, which described a dramatic reduction in crime overall.

La Declaratoria de la Cumbre de Presidentes del SICA apoya la gestion de CENPROMYPE La Declatatoria de la Cumbre de Presidentes del SICA apoya la gestion de CENPROMYPE

What is a Business Plan & What Can It Do For You?
Below you will find a business plan template or business plan format, describing the main components of a traditional business plan. It’s basic design has been around for many many years, maybe even hundreds, I’m not sure, but it goes way back. A business plan is important both for you and for others who want to know about your business. It describes your business, it’s goals, and financial projections. In short, it serves as your business’s resume. Every business, of course, needs a direction and a strategy. That’s what a good business plan will give you. Remember this: a well-written business plan must provide your business with a blueprint for success. Your business plan will also go a long way to help you keep your thinking organized and in perspective. Your plan does not have to be long and complicated, especially at the beginning. For smaller businesses, keep it as simple and succinct as you can, yet informative. Use it as a living document, try to keep it flexible, modifying it often as needed. I actually know some small businesses without one and still doing pretty good. However, most business people would agree that every business needs a business plan in order to reach its full potential.

The Beauty of Belize
White sand beaches, untouched coral reefs, ancient Mayan civilizations and impressive marine life – Belize has it all. Divers and snorkelers will find an abundance of marine life at Glover’s Atoll, a protected reef system and the southernmost and smallest of Belize’s 3 atolls. Divers frequently encounter dolphins, turtles, sharks and manta rays there. Catch a glimpse of the largest fish in the world – the whale shark – from Placencia, Belize. The gentle (believe it or not) creatures are typically found within only 20 feet of the water’s surface, and congregate in Belize each year to feed on fish eggs.

International Sources

CES Live: Intel CEO Makes Big Move Into Wearables, Says No More McAfee
The McAfee brand, which took a hit in recent years after eccentric founder John McAfee made headlines in 2012 as a fugitive in Belize, is being abandoned and replaced with the name, “Intel Security.”

CES Live: Intel CEO Makes Big Move Into Wearables, Says No More ...
Security firm McAfee might be something of a household name these days, but that has more to do with the over-the-top antics of the company’s founder rather than what it’s achieved in the security space. That’s in spite of the fact that John McAfee hasn’t worked for the company in almost two decades. But apparently, Intel, the company that snapped up McAfee back in 2011, doesn’t like the brand name of its acquisition being dragged through the mud, as it were. So what’s it going to do about it? Why, it’s going to change the name in an effort to distance itself as much as possible from its ex-fugitive founder, although the software (and the logo) will remain exactly the same. The rebranding was announced at the CES show in Las Vegas on Monday, during Intel CEO Brian Krzanich’s keynote. He said that the McAfee name would slowly be phased out, replaced by the name “Intel Security”.

7 secret Caribbean islands
The Caribbean -- home to cerulean waters, vibrant coral reefs and sugar-white beaches -- is a near-perfect vacation destination, especially when it's arctic cold at home. There is just one problem: Everyone you know wants to go there. How to lose the crowds when seeking an ideal tropical getaway? Forget well-traveled spots, where the sprawling hotels are thicker than coconut palms. If you really want to leave the only footprints in the sand, go to one of the Caribbean's lesser-known islands. Petit St. Vincent, for example, a gem-like private island resort in the Grenadines, falls happily under the radar compared to its sister island, Mustique. Cayo Espanto Just off the coast of Belize, this diminutive private island -- at just four acres, it contains six luxe private villas and one overwater bungalow -- has hosted a staggering list of seclusion-seeking A-listers (Tiger Woods and Leonardo DiCaprio among them). As befits such a clientele, every aspect of the experience here can be tailored to guests' whims. The chef customizes daily menus, and staffers arrange outings like guided bird-watching treks, tours of Mayan ruins and beachside aromatherapy couples' massages. Rooms start at $1,495; 910-323-8355; aprivateisland.com.

Finally, A 3D-Printed Drone for Archaeologists
Though archaeologists have come a long way since Indiana Jones, they sometimes still cling to antiquated technologies, like balloons and ladders to take photos of their discoveries and trenches from above. This month, a company formed by recent college grads called Arch Aerial rolled out a small drone designed to accompany archaeologists on far-flung expeditions. Arch Aerial showed off their small vehicle — which is made largely from 3D-printed parts and runs on open-source flight software — here at the Archaeological Institute of America's annual meeting this past weekend. The team traveled to 12 excavations in Belize and Italy over this past summer to test out their prototype and check out the competition before coming up with a final design. Just in those test runs, Baker says they helped make some unexpected archaeological discoveries. For instance, on their second day of excavations in Belize run by their alma mater, the University of Texas at Austin, they found new structures after doing an aerial survey from more than 300 feet (91 meters) up.

Climate change a priority for new Caricom chairman
Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves said yesterday that he would use his six-month term as chairman of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) grouping to deal with the deleterious effects climate change is having on the socio-economic future of the 15-member bloc. St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Lucia and Dominica are now emerging from the effects of a weather system that left a trail of death and destruction over the Christmas holidays. Caribbean countries have also had to deal with the annual hurricane season and in many cases, like in Haiti, unseasonal rains that cause widespread devastation. "The big issue... is global warming, climate change. We are having systems affecting us outside of the normal rainy season and the normal hurricane season," he said, making reference to the floods in April last year and the Christmas Eve rains that resulted in the deaths of nine people and hundreds of millions of dollars in damages here.

Belize's Wild Interior
Cayo, referred to as 'Belize's Wild Interior,' got a great write up in the adventure section of Men's Journal magazine. They mention Caracol, Xunantunich, the Black Hole drop, and Waterfall Cave, among other great activities. Happy tourist season! "Avoid the cruise-ship crowds at Altun Ha and head to Xunantunich and Caracol, deep in Cayo district. On a hilltop seven miles outside the backpacker hub of San Ignacio, Xunantunich is reached via a hand-cranked ferry across the Mopan River and a hike. The ceremonial center, including the 130-foot-tall El Castillo pyramid, has been restored to its eighth-century glory. For a more strenuous outing, trek to the lost city of Caracol. Buried in Chiquibul National Park and only partially excavated, the 15-square-mile complex has the stones (including the 141-foot-high Caana pyramid, still the country's tallest structure) to prove its former might."

Belize, a Country that will Leave you Captivated!
It’s easy to understand why so many people love Belize. It’s quirky, diverse and fun…with tropical landscapes and stunning beaches. It’s close to the U.S. – and it’s English-speaking. One little peninsula in Belize offers the relaxed Caribbean beach lifestyle so many of us dream of. It’s a barefoot paradise with plenty of charm and a laid-back atmosphere. Come and explore this tranquil location for yourself and check out the hottest properties on the market on a personalized property tour.