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Specials and Events

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


The San Pedro Sun

Awesome Selfie/ Photo Ops You Don't want to miss when in Belize
What started as a community beautification project quickly turned into a popular photo op landmark, everyone from children, locals, and tourists don't pass up the opportunity to take fun pictures at or on the huge colourful letters! After all, who wouldn't want to brag about being in Belize? Probably the ultimate proof of having a good time in Caye Caulker is the green stain that will be left on your tongues from the Lizard Juice- we call this Lizard Tongue! When on vacation in Caye Caulker the most popular drink is definitely the Lizard Juice, the green slush- like drink will have you feeling really happy after a cup or two of the lizard green concoction. In Caye Caulker, you can find it Habaneros, however it's become so popular that you can find stalls that make the desired drink at various expos, concerts and fairs.

Better late than never: Island celebrates Independence Day Parade
After being postponed due to inclement weather, San Pedro's Independence Jump-up Parade took place on Sunday, September 25th with festive colors and music taking over the streets. Kicking off at 11:30AM from the Boca del Rio Park, the parade made its way from Laguna Drive unto Pescador Drive and ended at Central Park on Barrier Reef Drive. Residents lined up along the parade route to view and cheer on the passing floats and revelers in elaborate costumes. Leading the parade was the San Pedro Traffic Department with the San Pedro Fire Department following closely behind. Miss San Pedro Iris Salguero greeted the crowd from a beautifully decorated float representing San Pedro's marine life. Keeping the patriotic vibes on high was the San Pedro Dance Academy and Drum Corps, who entertain the spectators with their rhythmic beats and choreographed routines. Also present at the parade was the San Pedro Police Department proudly carrying an extra-large Belizean Flag.

Mercury in Fish from the Macal River
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Department of Environment and the Belize Electric Company (BECOL), has finished another mercury test on the fish taken from the Macal River. The following Public Advisory is being issued to guide the general public on the amount of fish that can be eaten weekly from the Macal River to avoid ill effects due to mercury exposure. For this analysis, 12 types of fishes were caught from the Macal River. Of those twelve species 50% had levels of mercury above the recommended level of 0.5 mg/kg. Of that 50%, only three (3) or 25% of those fishes are normally consumed by persons living in communities around the Macal River. These fish include the Bay Snook, Baca and Botasi.

Ambergris Today

Independence Day Parade with Island Charm in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye
The biggest one-day blowout celebration on the island of Ambergris Caye definitely has to be the San Pedro Independence Day Jump Up Parade. The energy of the islanders anticipating the 'jump-up' as we call it in Belize, can be felt in the air as national pride is the driving force that fuels such passion to celebrate in grandeur. Elaborate floats are constructed; colorful costumes are sewn and assembled, while spirits come at a natural high - islanders are ready to celebrate like no other people can in Belize. The charm of Ambergris Caye includes its inviting and friendly people. You just have to say the word and you are invited to join a group in the parade; getting your costumes ready is part of the fun. If you are just a spectator on the side of the streets, it is easy to just jump right in and dance alongside the festive crowd and get your pictures taken to freeze frame the wonderful moments.

San Pedro Celebrates Belize Independence Day Like No Other
An Independence Day Parade for the books as the Flying Pi�ata Makes a Comeback - The rain might have postponed the celebrations one week back and it was not the biggest parade ever, but the always-festive people of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize, put on a spectacular show of colors, music and dance during one of the island's biggest events. Last week's rain delay only helped fuel everybody's energy to maximum level and allowed more groups to join in on the fun, all eager to celebrate Belize's Independence. For the first time ever, the parade took more of a Caribbean Carnival theme as the Carnival group leader of Belize City, The Titans, were invited to lead the parade along with the San Pedro Town Council float and a new group emerged to bring even more spectacle to the parade with feathery Carnival costumes. The Mystic Mas Band organized a 75-plus group of beautiful ladies who performed in gorgeous costumes and choreographed dances throughout the length of the parade.

Misc Belizean Sourcesmzz

The Board of the Belize Sailing Association Plans to Deprive two Teenage Belizean Sailors of Support Ranging from Highly Valuable to Absolutely Essential
As most of you know from recent posts, it took quite a struggle to get the Board of the Belize Sailing Association (BzSA) to agree to send Antonio Ricardez, 15, of Belize City and Blanca Velasquez, 15, of San Pedro. to the 2015 ISAF Youth World Championship Laser Regatta in Malaysia in December. Now the BzSA Board is denying vital support to the sailors. In part of an email sent today, Monday, Sept. 28, Sharon Hardwick, Chairwoman of Belize Sailing Association (BzSA) tells the International sailing Federation (ISAF) the following: "The Belize Sailing Association have not sanctioned any Coach reason why we did not registered one." "Therefore, I feel this should clarify registration on a go forward basis. No Official Coach sanctioned and No Official Team Lead." This consequence of the BzSA Board's decision is clear in an ISAF email on the same date to Sharon Hardwick that says: "Only team leaders and coaches registered and endorsed by an MNA* may register for the event. That means that 'club' coaches are not allowed." If qualified people accompany the sailors but are "Not Official" as the Chairwoman says, they'll be "not allowed," reduced to spectators from afar, and the two children will have no coach in a World Championship event and No Chaperone with the appropriate access.

Belize and Mexico sign a Memorandum of Understanding
At the "Foro de Cancun 2015", Belize and Mexico signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish stronger business relations between both countries. The Hon. Erwin Contreras, Minister of Trade, Investment Promotion, Private Sector Development and Consumer Protection signed on behalf of Belize while Mr Francisco N. González Díaz, Director General of ProMéxico, signed on behalf of Mexico. The signing was witnessed by Quintana Roo's Governor, Roberto Borge Angulo. "The signing of the MOU is a very significant milestone in BELTRAIDE's BelizeINVEST Unit's young existence! We have now been able to formalize an MOU with PROMEXICO, one of the foremost leaders in the field of global investment promotion," said Mr. Nick Ruiz, General Manager of BELTRAIDE's Trade and Investment Development Division. He added: "We have been working on this since late 2012; now we can proudly claim that our international network includes a partnership with PROMEXICO, a relationship which we will leverage to increase capacity here at home."

San Pedro Town Council: Thank you San Pedro!
The San Pedro Town Council would like to thank everyone for assisting all the events in celebration of Belize's Independence. We are really grateful for your cooperation and understanding when we decided to postpone the parade to a later date due to weather conditions. Thank you San Pedro for making this event possible once again. We hope everyone enjoyed all the events - from the Miss San Pedro Pageant, Independence Eve and the Parade to the Color After Party with Gilharry 7 & DJ Debbie and the Flying Pi�ata. The San Pedro Town Council keeps on working hard in making these events possible for everyone to enjoy. If you have any comments or suggestions on how we can improve our celebrations, please feel free to inbox us or email us at [email protected]. Long Live San Pedro! Long Live Belize!

Rooms for Rent in Bahia
Private Bath Upper Flat :$500 Lower Flat : $440 For more info Call: 602-1772

Community Collaboration Creative Arts
Roots Wraps and Smoothies is having their first Community Collaboration Creative Arts, Cocktails, and Cuisine event this Saturday. They'll have sushi! "Our first in a series of collaborative events. We hope that you can join us."

San Pedro Blood Drive Saturday, October 3at 9:00am - 7:00pm, Dr. Otto Rodriguez Polyclinic II
Then need for blood is greater than ever. Please do your part to help us fulfill this need.

General Election 2015
His Excellency the Governor General has issued a Writ of Election for the holding of a General Election to be held on Wednesday 4th November 2015. Polls will open at 7:00 a.m. and close at 6:00 p.m. Nominations for persons wishing to contest the election will be received on Friday, 16th October 2015 between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. at the various Nomination Centers, Countrywide. Section 57(1) of the Representation of the People Registration Rules states "The persons entitled to vote at the election of a divisional representative shall be those persons whose names appear on the register for that division as existing on the Nomination Day." With nomination day being the 16th October, 2015 only persons who registered on or prior to 10th September 2015 are persons whose names appear on the register and are therefore eligible to vote in the General Election. This is in conformity with the time table mandated by the Representation of the People Act to ensure that the period guaranteed by law for making objections and the hearing of appeals by the Revising Officer is complied with. Persons who applied to be registered after 10th September, 2015 would not have gone through the process required by law as of nomination day.

Belize PM calls snap elections
After just over three-and-a-half years into his government's current term of office, Belize Prime Minister Dean Barrow has called early general elections. "I have today advised the governor general to dissolve the National Assembly and to fix Wednesday November 4, 2015, as the date for the next general elections," Barrow announced on Monday evening. Nomination day will be October 15. Having secured a period of restoration, Barrow said, he believed the time had come to ask for a fresh mandate. "The clean-up having been completed, the UDP [United Democratic Party] must focus now exclusively on the positive, on forwarding opportunity and change," he said. The November 4 general election will be the earliest election ever in Belize, coming just three years, eight months after the March 7, 2012, poll when Barrow's UDP won 17 seats in the National Assembly to the opposition People's United Party's 14.

Caye Caulker Bartending training
Belize Mixology will be in Caye Caulker at Roses Grill and Bar signing up last minute participants for Bartending training starting on October 1st. Inbox or text 664-1515 to sign up. Spaces are limited.

Seadoos for sale in Corozal
If you are an avid sea venturer ...a lover of the sea! Here is your chance to purchase a pair of Seadoos. Located n Corozal Town. 2000 GTI- Engine size 781 & 2002 GTX-Engine size 951 2 men Bombadier Seadoos Engine's Completely Rebuilt - In good working condition New paint - New Batteries - Runs strong up to 40 mph. For sale with accessories i.e. Life jackets, anchors, and tandem trailer. Will only sell the pair. Price - $16,500 Bze. Call 667-7359 and ask for Robby.

100,000 Poets for Change Concert
The Soul Project was the venue for this year's 100,000 Poets for Change Concert. It was a fun night, and the tamarind, and sorrel lime wines were incredible.

Harrington Trapp's Same Old Me: Belizean Musical Artist!
The legendary Belizean musical artist, Harrington Trapp, musical career span from his time as as a vocalist in the 1960's with bands in Belize like The Promoters and Glenn Bood & The Telegrams, to his work as a musical artist and vocalist in the United States in the 1970's and 80's with Belizean bands like the legendary, The Webb, to the reggae band called the Babylon Warriors. Since making his mark as an outstanding vocalist and trombone player with the Webb, Trapp later went on to carve out a career for himself as a solo artist and vocal stylist in the 1990's and beyond. His incredible body of work has warranted much respect and admiration from new and younger Belizean artists of today who credited the veteran Belizean artist, producer, and musician, with a model to emulate in their careers. Influenced by the 1960's R&B African-American musical renaissance of the 1960's of artists like Sly & The Family Stone, and other soulful troubadours of that era, Trapp began developing his authentic Belizean soulful style as a vocalist since his early musical debut as a teenager in the 1960's classic Belizean musical spectrum.

Renovations at Glover's Reef Research Station
Even as the GRRS on Middle Caye is closed for its regular two month shutdown WCS is hard at work improving facilities for visiting researchers, students, guests and staff. Improvements include extensive renovations to our dock, library, dorms and staff quarters. We look forward to opening again at the end of October for another productive year of research, monitoring and education programs.

Help Us Spread our Wings 4Education
Want to help another COOL organization working really hard to conserve birds of prey in Belize? Here is your chance. Belize Raptor Center is working tirelessly all over the country helping to educate the young minds on the benefits of Raptors. They have reached thousands of kids in Belize and with your help, they can do even more. Donate now, show you care enough...

Channel 7

PM Intervenes To Avert BEL Strike
At noon today, The Belize Energy Workers union declared that it will go on strike tomorrow - that's after talks with BEL Management broke down last night. But the breaking news tonight is that the strike may be averted. That's after the Prime Minister met with the union this afternoon at his Coney Drive office. That's the very latest, and we'll tell you all about it shortly - but we begin with last night's meeting. It was held at the Ministry of Labour in Belmopan - and at around 10:00 pm, talks broke down, when, the union claims, Management refused to give anymore and held to its position. With that the Union consulted its membership this morning and agreed to go on strike. General Secretary Marvin Mora appeared at noon in front of BEL's Corporate Headquarters backed up by his executive:... Marvin Mora, General Secretary - BEWU "Our membership suggested a strike tomorrow and it is over 50% of the union countrywide who have accepted that preposition. So, unless we don't get any resolution to our situation then the union will have to effectuate that strike tomorrow." Mike Rudon, Ch5 "Give us an idea in numbers?" Marvin Mora, General Secretary - BEWU "In terms of our numbers, we are about 147-148 employees."

The Nitty Gritty Behind The Earliest Election Ever
The Governor General has issued a Writ of Election for the General Election on Wednesday 4th November 2015. The offIcial announcement says, quote, "Polls will open at 7:00 a.m. and close at 6:00 p.m. Nominations for persons wishing to contest the election will be received on Friday, 16th October 2015 between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. at the various Nomination Centers, Countrywide." Only those who registered on or before 10th September 2015 will be allowed to vote. At 3 years and eight months, it's the earliest into a term that any government of Belize has ever called general elections, and yesterday evening in Belmopan, the press grilled the PM for a clear answer on why so early. Here's more from that exchange: Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister "I hate to put it like this, but to some extent, the fact that this was an election season, was a distraction and if we had prolong it, if we had extended it, a great deal beyond today's date, it would have meant that that distraction would have been compounded. We are confident that this is the time to go and we are confident that people will re-elect us."

PM Responds To Hard Words From Communication Workers
While we were on the topic of the BTL settlement, we took the opportunity to ask the Prime Minister about the position that the Belize Communication Workers Union has taken. 12 days ago, the union released a scathing public statement criticizing the Prime Minister and his Government for the nature of the settlement and the way the negotiations were conducted in private. They have suggested that the Prime Minister's actions are similar to Former Prime Minister Said Musa. So, how did the Prime Minister take to such strong language? He said that he found the union's statement derogatory: Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister "I find it outrageously derogatory. But there is freedom of speech in this country and so the press release from that point of view was entitled to say what it did. It is my understanding that very many members of the staff at BTL took exception to that press release or certainly to the tone of the press release. I don't know how that kind of language got away from the union executive. Because it is absolutely reprehensible. Cannot be justified and regrettable. But it's there, it's part of the record, we have to move on. The managers, the board of directors at BTL must address the legitimate concerns of the workers and then we move on."

Santa Cruz 13 Back To Court; Tension Mount At Uxbenka
You may remember the 13 Mayans from Santa Cruz, Toledo, now referred to as "the Santa Cruz 13" who were charged and arraigned for unlawfully imprisoning Creole Belizean Rupert Myles. They had handcuffed Myles with the intention of ejecting him from their village after he illegally built his house on the Uxbenka Mayan Natural Monument. Today, those 13 Mayans went back to the Punta Gorda Magistrate's Court for their second adjournment since being arrested and charged. Since the prosecution needs time to build their case, they asked the sitting Magistrate to grant them more time. The Magistrate considered their request, and granted a further adjournment until October 27. But, while this case makes its slow process to completion, the villagers of Santa Cruz are getting frustrated. The Director of Archaeology, Dr. John Morris told the press 3 months ago that criminal action was going to be taken against Myles for destroying a natural monument because a major portion was bulldozed to build him a road to his house. According to the Maya, nothing has been done by the state, and instead of taking steps to move Myles, he appears to be content with squatting, and he's even expanded the property on the monument that he is claiming for his personal use.

Another House Tumbles Down
Tonight - there's another report of another home that has fallen. An elderly woman is homeless after the wooden structure she called home crumbled to the ground around 4:30am. 62-year-old Laura Prince - who lived alone - was trapped under the fallen structure and had to be rescued. Today in an interview with 7news, she described what happened and how lucky she is to be alive. Laura Prince, House fell "This morning I got up about 4am, come out of my room, went into the hallway and by time I got there, the house just come right down with me. I dropped on the floor and I was trapped for a little while. The police and the ambulance came and took me out of the place. This house is up for 42 years. I try getting help, but no one tries to help me. No politician. I am not putting politics in it, but no politician came to help. This is way back in the PUP days, come in UDP days. Mr. Finnegan have my papers from when he first got elected. I went to him for a house he had me fill out a form and he says that he will take the papers to Belmopan for me and since then I haven't heard from him again - 8 year now.

Grassroots Philanthropist Dara Says US Embassy Rejected Him "Cold"
Dara Robinson has been on this newscast countless times - following up on his life's work, which is feeding hungry children. He's tireless, action-oriented and committed. He's been honoured as a First Caribbean unsung hero, received the meritorious service award from the Government of Belize, and the Ubuntu community award from the ministry of education. But, none of that mattered last Thursday when Dara went to the US embassy in Belmopan and was rejected outright when he applied for a visa. Dara wanted to go to the Belizean communities in Los Angeles and California to fundraise for his feeding programme, but the consular officer told him he doesn't have strong enough ties to Belize. For this grassroots philanthropist, he fells as bad about the rejection as he does about watching 320 dollars go down the drain in a three-minute interview. He told us more:.. Dara Robinson, Rejected For US Visa "This guy while he was talking he was on his computer. He barely watch me. He took this same paper and he fold it up like this and push it through the window and he says Mr. Robinson, you have to try again. You don't have strong ties to your country and I say what? How will you tell me I don't have strong ties to my country when you don't even allow me as a first timer to show you what kind of ties I have? Because if they think I want to go and live in America - that is the least thing. Jules, I am 44 years old and never yet - when it was $90 I never try think to go and live in America. That is not in me."

PM On Uxbenka
Earlier we told you about the situation in Santa Cruz village. A few months ago, Prime Minister Barrow and his Government had come under fire from the Mayans who believed that the state had been heavy-handed against them for trying to protect national patrimony. Since the Director of Archaeology confirmed that Myles was the one who was in the wrong, what does the Prime Minister have to say about all this now? Well, he told the media yesterday he still believes that they made their right a wrong when they used force against Myles: Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister "I am telling you that the position is that the law of this country is what it is, it still prevails. The Mayans, like all other citizens of Belize are bound by those laws and you cannot use force to evict somebody from lands that's in dispute and I will leave it there."

Is Dean Barrow Worried About Jimmy Morales?
In a few days following the results of from the First Round of Guatemala's Presidential Elections, the most popular candidate, Jimmy Morales, granted an interview to the Guatemalan Press. His comments suggested that he has eyes on Belize, and he did bring it up during an election cycle. That suggests that Guatemala's foreign policy could become more aggressive, even through the diplomatic channels, if Morales is elected as President. It did not go unnoticed by persons in Belize where it went viral on the social media, but is Prime Minister Dean Barrow taking notice? He said yesterday that while it is cause for concern, Morales has to get elected first: Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister "Let's wait and see. I don't know that he will necessarily win. We will deal with what happens when it happens. Look, he's made at least one statement that is troubling, but I am hoping that if he does win the Guatemalan foreign policy establishment, the Guatemalan political elite and certainly the international community will make absolutely clear to that gentleman that any notion of pursuing their claim in a way that is disruptive of the good relations between Belize and Guatemala, that is threatening to Belize simply will not be tolerated. So, I am sure that we will be able to deal with that situation if and when it occurs."

Goldson, A Hero's Home
Last night, we gave you a brief look into the ceremonial opening of the Goldson House, to chronicle the life and Legacy of National Hero Phillip Goldson. That event was held yesterday evening in Belmopan, and our news team arrived back in Belize City after the news was finished. So, tonight, we take you back to the Goldson house, to show you just how it looks. Daniel Ortiz has that story: Daniel Ortiz reporting Orange Street, Belmopan, was taken over for the evening. A tent was erected, and where vehicles would have normally passed, chairs were laid out for all the guests who showed up for this very important ceremony. Prominent amongst the other attendants were the Head of State, the Head of Government, the Tourism and Culture Minister, the NICH representatives, and the family and friends of the late Philip Goldson.

Senior Citizen's Week Observed
"Sustainability and Age inclusiveness in urban development": that is the theme of this year's Senior citizen week. An art exhibit as well as a story telling session were held at HelpAge today where members from Belize City and Punta Gorda participated. We met with the coordinator and she told us how important it is to engage our senior citizens in activities such as these. There will be a pampering session for the member on Friday morning. Activities are being held at all 11 branches countrywide.

US Embassy Gives 1M For Community Agencies
This afternoon the US Embassy in Belmopan signed over grant funds to 7 Belizean organizations working for community outreach. It's a part of the Central American Regional Security Initiative's Economic Support Funds, and the Ambassador's HIV Prevention Program. So, to qualify, these 7 organizations were had to convince the vetting team from the Embassy that these funds to are going to benefit the community. The US Ambassador told us today that these recipients are being given a total of almost a million US dollars: These receiving organizations are Belize Credit Union League, the Building People Movement, PathLight International, RET International, the Youth Enhancement Services, the Empower Yourself Belize Movement, and the Love Foundation Belize.

A Hero Of The Sea
Oceana named its 2015 Ocean Heroes on Saturday, September 26th, in Caye Caulker. They are Biologist Miguel Alamilla and the recently deceased Captain Romi Badillo. Tonight, with video courtesy OCEANA we look at Alamilla who has been managing the Hol Chan Marine Reserve since 1997. Alamilla has also been leading a monitoring program to protect the highly vulnerable marine turtles that live and nest on the shores of Ambergris Caye. Badillo, who was honoured posthumously was recognized for his contribution to the Fisheries Department; the tourism industry; support for scientific research; and in channel marking and navigation.

CTV3

Paving Of Guadalupe Street Gets Underway
The Orange Walk Town Council has begun laying the first of two coats of pavement on Guadalupe Street. Rehabilitation work on the street began a few weeks back and with the good weather today, the council nears completion of that project. We spoke with Mayor Kevin Bernard who says work should be done shortly. "This really means a lot for the residence of this area, this is a very, very busy street and so we will be putting down the second coat very soon, I must again thank again the business community who contributed significantly to this project and of course the people of Orange Walk through the taxes that they have been paying and the council is putting the entire rest of the bill." Dalila Ical - Reporter "When do you expect to have this completely finished?" Mayor Kevin Bernard - Orange Walk Town "The first coat will be done today and then within the next 14 to 16 days they will be monitoring the work and then they will be putting down the second coat but I believe within the next 15 days we should have the second coat of this street paved." Mayor Bernard adds that the work on other streets are going to continue as they have identified priority street that need urgent attention.

BCC Launch Its Social Economic Alliance Manifesto 2015
The Belize Chamber of Commerce is getting ready to launch its Social Economic Alliance Manifesto 2015, the first of its kind by the chamber. The chamber began the process in 2005 calling for governance reform which according to former Senator Mark Lizarraga is desperately needed to bring about social and economic growth in Belize. Lizarraga told us today that they will be inviting politicians to sign onto the manifesto. "We will be inviting politicians to sign on to and what we will be asking them basically for is for them to commit on these reforms that we believe are needed to have the social and economic impact that our country needs to further develop so that we can have more job creation, more industries and a higher standard of living for the Belizean people, this new manifesto that we are going to be promoting will be calling for several things but the most important ones I believe is that we want to see the full inclusion of social partners on all government owned bodies or boards including the Central Bank, we believe that if government owns an entity that social partners should be on those boards...

Corozal House Of Culture Remembers Hurricane Janet
Since 1930, there have been 16 hurricanes, 8 of which were major Hurricanes that have either made landfall in Belize or passed close enough to cause damage or loss of life. One of those phenomenon is Hurricane Janet which impacted Corozal on the 27th of September, 1955. Janet turned Corozal Town into rubble as it left only about 10 houses standing. The winds of Janet were up to 175 miles per hour also causing damage to neighboring Chetumal Quintana Roo, Mexico. To date, 60 years after the phenomenon destroyed part of the north, Janet is still being remembered with an exhibit at the Corozal House of Culture.

Avicela Duran Back In The Country
Orange Walk Police have confirmed that the common-law-wife of Manuel "El Pelon" Castillo is back in the Country. Authorities have been tight lipped about Avicela Duran's appearance at the Orange Walk Police Station several weeks ago flanked by an attorney to clear her name. For context, Castillo, who remains a fugitive, is wanted for the kidnapping and murder of Ramon Cervantes Sr. and the murder of Sonia Abac in July 2014. Since the incident, it was reported that Castillo and 26 year old Avicela Duran absconded from the police. She was wanted for questioning.

Well Known Orange Walkeno Beaten Nearly To Death
A well-known Orange Walkeno that goes by the name of "Paraquat" was viciously attacked and left for dead by two men last night on Queen Victoria Avenue. From what we've been able to gather, Paraquat was defending another person whom these men picked upon. We are told that because he intervened, the men, who seemed under the influence of alcohol, took out there frustration on Paraquat hitting him several times to the head and face. The injured man was then left for dead until about half hour later when a Good Samaritan checked on him and called the authorities. We are told that because Paraquat did not want to seek medical attention, fearing for injections, the police stated that they could not do anything for him if he does not do so voluntarily. Shortly after, the same Good Samaritan picked him up and took him in his vehicle to the Northern Regional Hospital. The individual told us today that he observed several large gashes and flesh wounds on the victims head and face. From what he gathered from those on the site, the men, who are believed to be from Belize City, attacked Paraquat, threatened others and demanded for a girl who was eating to accompany them.

PM Speaks About Why call an Early Elections
The Belizean public goes to the polls on November fourth to vote in a new government or keep the Dean Barrow administration in office. The Prime Minister made the announcement yesterday and this naturally has caused quite a stir in the country. So why did the PM call an early elections? In an interview late yesterday evening with the Belize Media, the PM explained his reasons. "Well I said that the 4 year point is the marker and so since that was my calculus, we are not too early, in terms of that yardstick. This particular juncture though, seems to me to be right. We've had a string of elections already in this current year. Everybody knew that the election was coming sooner rather than later. It struck me that let's get it over and done with, so that whoever wins can then concentrate fully on the business of governance, on the business of development, on the business of improving people's lives. If the longer I had waited, the more difficult it would have been to continue to focus on issues of governance - all important issues of governance. I hate to put it like this, but to some extent, the fact that this was an election season, was a distraction and if we had prolong it, if we had extended it, a great deal beyond today's date, it would have meant that that distraction would have been compounded."

Mayor Kevin Bernard Weighs On Elections Date
Politics is all the talk this week as Prime Minister Dean Barrow announced the date for the next general elections. Today while speaking with the Mayor of Orange Walk Kevin Bernard, we asked him for his views on the PM's announcement. "I believe that the government is in some serious problems the prime minister has called the elections 17 months away from its due time and that shows you that this is the second time that he has been calling an early elections and I don't want to hear about transformation, lives really has not been transformed in this country the economy is in shambles, foreign investment is down a lot of people in poverty and so I think that at the end of the day while street and all on these things yes it does enhance your community government must look on the way how to provide employment, how to create opportunities for our people and that has not been done and I think that it is high time that people of Belize look at the better picture, look at what we can do to save this country, ...

PlusTV

BEWU Announces Industrial Action-Prepares for Strike
The Government of Belize in 2011 seized BEL from Fortis, promising to save the company financially for the benefit of the Belizean people, but will they be able to save the utility from industrial crisis that today, through an official statement from the Belize Energy Workers Union, knocked on its d...

BEL Management Responds to Call for Strike: "We are Ready"
In response to BEWU's threat of industrial action, the management of BEL sent out a press release saying that in light of the announced strike on the part of the BEWU, the BEL management has activated its contingency plan to mitigate any possible impact of a strike. The management makes note that ov...

BEL and BEWU reach agreement
Late this evening, the Christian Workers Union sent a press release expressing their solidarity with the members of the sister union the Belize Energy Workers Union BEWU and called on its own members to be ready to show visible support for the members of BEWU. However, that might not be necessary at...

Woman homeless after Belize City house collapses
A 62 year old Belize City woman suffered personal tragedy this morning after her house on Ebony Street collapsed without warning. The house had been standing for at least 42 years, but due to a combination of wet weather and aging wood, it crumbled and left her out of door. Laura Prince described he...

PUP marks 65th anniversary
It has been over six decades since the formation of the People's United Party on September 29, 1950 - after a year's worth of demonstrations and protest against the British colonial system by the original People's Committee. It found its feet in the 1960's under the lea...

Older persons celebrate long lives with storytelling
The week of September 28 to October 3 is Older Persons Week. About 7 percent of the Belizean population is above the age of 60, but many still work and are active in the community at all levels. Under the theme "Sustainability and Age: Inclusiveness in the Urban Community," Helpage Beliz...

Minors busted with Cocaine
Belmopan police busted an 18 year old and two minors with cocaine. According to reports, yesterday at around 10:30 am, Belmopan Police along with Special Patrol Unit conducted a search at a house on St. John Street, in the San Martin area, Belmopan. Upon searching the shed attached to the rear of t...


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Let's do it
The talk about early general elections has been in the air for several months now, but today Prime Minister Dean Barrow ended the suspense when he announced that he has advised the Governor General to dissolve the National Assembly and set November 4 as the date for general elections. In the history of general elections in post-independence Belize, this is the earliest point in the term of a current administration that general elections are being called. The second term of the ruling United Democratic Party government of Prime Minister Barrow would not have ended until March 2017. Barrow's November general elections announcement appears to be a departure from his earlier stated position at the beginning of this month. "Elections will be no later than the first part of next year. I am thinking in terms of the next general election of somewhere close to the 4-year marker, which would mean, then, that we are looking at not beyond February/March of next year," Barrow had said in an interview.

Kenrick Bowman, 42, indicted on "sex act in the presence of a child"
Kenrick Alston Bowman, a Belizean/American who is a registered sex offender in the United States, walked calmly beside his police escort from the court's holding cell and took his place in the courtroom of Magistrate Ladonna John this morning. The forty-two-yearold Bowman, who has been in police custody since Wednesday, has been making national headlines on allegations that he has been sexually active with a number of young boys at his Police Street address. Police's investigation of the alleged pedophile, however, has so far only resulted in a little-used charge of "engaging in a sexual act in the presence of a child." Bowman, who was unrepresented by an attorney, pleaded not guilty to the charge, which dates back to sometime in January, 2015.

2 ca�eros murdered in cane field
Two men were shot to death by an unknown gunman who ambushed them at about 10:30 Friday morning as they were working in a cane field in the San Comal area, located about three and a half miles northeast of Corozal Town. Police say that Rojelio Rancharan, 42, a driver of Paraiso, an area of Corozal Town, and Victor Enrique Cayuno, 58, a laborer of San Andres, Corozal District, were found lying face-up; each had been shot in the right side of the head. Superintendent Dennis "Desho" Arnold, Commander of Corozal Police, said that at about 10:40 Friday morning, a 54-year-old man went to the police station and reported that shots were fired at him and his friends while they were working in the cane field in the San Comal area.

Mercury levels dangerous in Bay Snook from Macal River
-In a press release issued today, Monday, the Ministry of Health, the Department of Environment and the Belize Electric Company (BECOL) have issued advice to the public about the excessive levels of mercury found in fish taken from the Macal River, and about what amounts of the fish can be safely eaten to avoid ill effects due to mercury exposure. According to the release, twelve types of fish were caught from the Macal River. "Of those twelve species 50% had levels of mercury above the recommended level of 0.5 mg/kg. Of that 50%, only three (3) or 25% of those fishes are normally consumed by persons living in communities around the Macal River. These fish include the Bay Snook, Baca and Botasi," stated the release. The release further detailed, "After testing, the mercury levels were found to be the highest in the Botasi with 1.55 mg/kg and the second highest in the Bay Snook with 1.44 mg/kg or both approximately three times the recommended levels. Baca was also found with elevated level of mercury 0.68 mg/kg or a little over the recommended level of 0.5 mg/kg."

Unidentified man in KHMH needs family support
-An unidentified man is presently hospitalized in a critical condition at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, and up to press time tonight, word from hospital authorities is that no one has come forward to acknowledge kinship with him, or to give information about his identity. He is presently receiving medical treatment at the Intensive Care Unit, and has been doing so for about a week, but neither KHMH officials nor the police have any information about him. They do not even know his name. His family members are needed to identify him and to give family support during the time of his illness, say hospital authorities.

One killed, one injured in accident on Philip Goldson Highway
One of two persons travelling in an SUV from Ladyville to Belize City on the Philip Goldson Highway was killed immediately due to massive head and body injuries, while the second person suffered injuries that were not life-threatening when the vehicle crashed into a fence. At about 6:30 this morning, at Mile 2 on the Philip Goldson Highway in front of the Coral Grove Puma Gas Station, near the property of businessman Jose Shoman, an SUV, driven by John Jeremy Gordon, 35, slammed into a concrete fence on Shoman's property. Gordon's girlfriend, Jamelia Arnold, 27, was extracted by the Belize Fire Service from the vehicle using the "Jaws of Death," and taken to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, where she was admitted in a stable condition. Gordon was subsequently recovered from the vehicle, but he was already dead.

Verdes answers dismaying loss with uplifting win
A week after suffering an 8-0 loss at the hands of Queretaro, Verdes FC bounced back Tuesday with an impressive 2-1 win over visiting San Francisco. The victory was the Belizean power first in the SCCL after five all-time games. Like he has done for Belize so many times before, forward Deon McCaulay got his name on the scoresheet by striking for both goals, including the game-winner with two minutes left in normal time. Head coach Walter Salazar was gratified by his team's response to that that lopsided setback in Mexico. "It took a lot for the team to recover spiritually," he said. "In the previous match, we went with the extra motivation of playing against a big team, Queretaro, and to return home with that loss was hard. Each day in training, there was a different motivation to try to get the team to adapt. We had training in the days after, but we also had chats so that the team was prepared for this time, for this match."

Postponed PLB games on this weekend
All games were postponed over the past weekend in the Premier League of Belize (PLB) 2015-2016 Opening Season, but the schedule has just been pushed back a week, so the same Week 5 match-ups are on for this coming weekend. The most highly anticipated match-up of course will be the clash of the two undefeated standings leaders, Verdes FC and Police United FC, which takes place on Verdes' home turf at the Norman Broaster Stadium on Sunday. Week 5 schedule completes the first round of competition: Saturday, October 3 7:30 p.m. - Placencia Assassins FC vs Wagiya FC - Michael Ashcroft Stadium Sunday, October 4 3:30 p.m. - BDF FC vs Belmopan Bandits FC - MCC Grounds 4:00 p.m. - Verdes FC vs Police United FC - Norman Broaster Stadium N.B. The Lilly White/Dubu Blend Over-40 clash with San Pedro Over-40 is also set to take place this Sunday at the MCC, starting at 1:30 p.m., according to Lilly White.

High school volleyball season begins at Bird's Isle
The Central Secondary Schools Sports Association (CSSSA) 2015-2016 Volleyball Tournament gets under way today, Monday, September 28, at Bird's Isle, beginning at 4:30 p.m. Six (6) female and nine (9) male high school teams from Belize City will battle for 5 weeks to represent the CSSSA at the national tournament, which is scheduled to start on Friday, November 6. Participating high school teams are: FEMALES (F) - ACC (Anglican Cathedral College); BHS (Belize High School); LTH (Ladyville Technical High School); NHS (Nazarene High School); SCA (St. Catherine Academy); and WES (Wesley College). MALES (M) - ACC; BHS; GLH (Gwen Lizarraga High School); LTH; MWH (Maude Williams High School); NHS; SJC; SVT (Sadie Vernon Technical High School); and WES.

Editorial: Belize's Independence - pre and post
This September Belize celebrated 34 years of political independence. Prior to that September 21, 1981 milestone, Belizeans had been agitating for self-rule for 31 years, beginning with the formation of the People's Committee in January of 1950. Today, Hon. Dean Barrow's quest for a third consecutive term as Prime Minister is historically noteworthy, because it would establish him as Belize's most important post-independence Prime Minister. Previous to Mr. Barrow, Dr. Manuel Esquivel of the United Democratic Party (UDP) and Hon. Said Musa of the People's United Party (PUP) both led Belize for two five-year terms, Dr. Esquivel from 1984 to 1989 and from 1993 to 1998, and Mr. Musa from 1998 to 2008. It is clear, of course, that the dominant Belizean politician of the pre-independence era was the PUP's Rt. Hon. George Price, who led Belize from 1961 to 1984 under the Cabinet constitution. (Mr. Price led Belize to self-government in January of 1964.) Mr. Price led the PUP to national election victory (in coalition with the General Workers Union {GWU}) in 1957, when Belize was still a full-fledged British colony. Mr. Price was a consensus politician who was significantly influenced by his Roman Catholic religion, his Maya/Mestizo ancestry on his mother's side, and his social justice concerns. By the time he led Belize to independence in 1981, Mr. Price had become so iconic that analysts have not noted the fact that his influence on post-independence Belize was actually marginal, more symbolic than substantial.

From the Publisher
In my last column I briefly discussed the disappointing division which took place in early 1973 in the UBAD organization which I led. Some of the people in my executive apparently believed that the People's United Party (PUP) government of the day was the ultimate enemy, and to a certain extent they were justified in so thinking at that point in time. Despite all the pressure the PUP was bringing down on UBAD, however, I personally believed that the ultimate enemy was not the PUP, but rather it was white supremacy in all its forms, local and international, manifested and disguised. My understanding of the division in the UBAD leadership involved the eagerness of half the UBAD executive to embrace the so-called Unity Congress, which was the immediate precursor to the United Democratic Party (UDP), which was established on September 25, 1973. As the president of UBAD, my position was that the Unity Congress had to prove certain things before any embrace could take place. I was highly skeptical of the Liberal Party, because to me this was a paper party which had not put in any real work in the streets. I was correct where my skepticism was concerned, but I was too inexperienced to recognize and accept that the Liberal Party was more important to the Unity Congress organizers than UBAD was, because the Liberal Party was bringing Chamber of Commerce money support and the Liberal Party was bringing a chunk of Roman Catholic blessing.

Prevention is better than cure
On September 24, the Ministry of Health, PAHO and other partners commemorated Caribbean Health & Wellness Week by having a Health & Wellness Open Day, at the Battlefield Park under the theme "Healthy Living, Healthy Aging." Present at the event were the Belize Cancer Society, the Diabetes Association, the Kidney Association, Belize Wellness Institute, Cayo Healthy Living, Vega Bites and several fruit vendors. In all there were a total of 22 booths. Dr. Jorge Palanco of PAHO said that Caribbean Health & Wellness week is observed by all CARICOM countries, and that it was birthed in 2007 out of a summit of the CARICOM Heads of Government held in Trinidad & Tobago. There was a need to address non-communicable disease by all governments of the region and to review policies, and so it was decided that observing a health and wellness week throughout the Caribbean would be a step in the right direction, said Polanco. He added that they issued a declaration to this effect and it was implemented in 2008.

Giann Ramclam wins Fr. Marion Ganey Quiz Competition
Giann Ramclam of Holy Redeemer Primary School is the Belize District winner of the Fr. Marion Ganey Quiz Competition. Second and third places went to Mikaylie Jonch of Holy Redeemer Primary School and Homayra Sarah of St. Joseph Primary School respectively. The competition was held at the Holy Redeemer Parish Hall on September 25. Despite the rain, a total of six schools were able to participate in the event: St. Ignatius Primary School, represented by Shandel Parham; Ebenezer Primary School, represented by Ashanny Flowers; St. Joseph Primary School, represented by Alanna Guerra and Homayra Sarah; Holy Redeemer Primary School, represented by Giann Ramclam and Mikaylie Jonch; Queen Square Primary School, represented by Gerald Parks; and St. John's Vianney Primary School, represented by Marli Mclaren and Jayra Young. In the first and second round of the competition, each participant was asked three questions and awarded five points each for every correct answer. Only five participants advanced to the third round - Gerald Parks, Homayra Sarah, Giann Ramclam, Mikaylie Jonch and Marli Mclaren.

U.S. Embassy is taking food out of our children's mouths, says Dara
Do you recall the days when the US Embassy used to give non-immigrant visas free of charge? Now a visa application costs BZ$320, more than a week's salary for a large number of Belizeans. This doesn't guarantee that you will get a visa; neither will your money be refunded if a visa is denied to you, however. Therefore, many Belizeans feel cheated when their visa is denied. This was exactly how Joel "Dara" Robinson, a born Belizean, felt when the US Embassy refused to give him a visa. Robinson, 44, told Amandala that he visited the U.S. Embassy for the very first time on Thursday, September 24, to apply for a visa. He said he gathered all his documents and cut his dreadlocks, only to find out that the Consular officer refused to look at his documents that he presented, and told him that he doesn't "have strong ties to Belize," and so would be denied a visa.

Breaking Belize NewsPJ

Miguel Alamilla and Captain Romi Badillo named "Ocean Heroes"
Marine conservationist group OCEANA has named Miguel Alamilla, manager of Hol Chan Marine Reserve, and the late Captain Romualdo "Romi" Badillo, as 2015 Ocean Heroes. Alamilla is cited for his contributions in expanding the footprint of the Reserve to 131 square miles of reef, shoals, sea, lagoon and wetlands. Miguel Alamilla [�]

BTL declares $17 million profit at AGM
Shareholders heard from the board of directors of Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL) at tonight's Ninth Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Biltmore Plaza Hotel that the company's profits had slipped again, by $2.1 million to $17 million; however, this erosion, said company chairman Nestor Vasquez, is due to depreciation of [�]

Woman homeless after Belize City house collapses
A 62 year old Belize City woman suffered personal tragedy this morning after her house on Ebony Street collapsed without warning. The house had been standing for at least 42 years, but due to a combination of wet weather and aging wood, it crumbled and left her out [�]

PUP marks 65th anniversary
It has been over six decades since the formation of the People's United Party on September 29, 1950 - after a year's worth of demonstrations and protest against the British colonial system by the original People's Committee. Today the PUP marked its anniversary by opening Independence Hall to [�]

Older persons celebrate long lives with storytelling
The week of September 28 to October 3 is Older Persons Week. About 7 percent of the Belizean population is above the age of 60, but many still work and are active in the community at all levels. Under the theme "Sustainability and Age: Inclusiveness in the Urban Community," Helpage [�]

BEL responds to BEWU strike threats
Earlier today, The Belize Energy Workers Union (BEWU) announced that it intends to strike tomorrow as negotiations with Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) have not progressed the way they had hoped. In response to the the BEWU's announcement, BEL has sent out a press release detailing their preparations for the union's strike. Here [�]

Governor General issues Writ of Election
Governor General Sir Colville Young has issued Writ of Election to be held on Wednesday, November 4th 2015, with polls opening from 7:00 a.m. in the morning until 6:00 p.m. in the evening. Nominations for those contesting will be received on October 16th, 2015, from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at nomination centers countrywide. The [�]

Council of Aging observing Day for Older Persons by unveiling new strategic plan
In 2003 the National Council of Ageing (NCA) was officially opened to ensure the continued involvement in and contribution of the Elder Person to society and creating an environment of independence, dignity and integrity. Ever since, NCA has joined hands with other countries to observe October 1st, as International Day [�]

$50,000 Vessel goes missing in Caye Caulker
Yesterday, September 28, a fisheries officer attached to the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve reported to police that sometime between the hours of 10:30 p.m. on September 27 and 6:15 a.m. yesterday morning, a 25-foot fiberglass boat along with its 100 horsepower Yahama engine were stolen from the reserve which is [�]

Belmopan Police arrest teenagers for drug trafficking
Excier Quintanilla, an 18 year old male of San Martin area in Belmopan along with two minors, ages 16 and 15, were arrested and charged for the offence of "Drug Trafficking". The teenagers were arrested yesterday, September 28 following a search conducted on #22 St. John Street by Belmopan Police [�]

Drones to assist Caneros in Orange Walk
New technology is being marketed in Belize that can positively impact the Sugar Industry. Yesterday, Inspection Robotica and Skynet a professional robotics services company and an aerial services company visited with several companies to introduce their new state of the art services being offered in this region. [�]

BEWU announces strike tomorrow
The Belize Energy Workers Union (BEWU) has announced that it intends to strike tomorrow as negotiations with Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) have not progressed the way they had hoped. BEWU Vice President Marvin Mora told the media that the union made the decision after a meeting with Labor Minister Godwin [�]

New Belizeans sworn in; will not be able to vote in elections yet
A regular ceremony for swearing in of new Belizeans took place Friday in Belmopan at the University of Belize Gymnasium. These 213 persons from 26 countries have been waiting for many years to join the Belizean family, but they will not get a chance to vote in the [�]

BEL conducts mass disconnection in Stann Creek, customers complain they never got bill
Confirmed reports coming out of the Stann Creek District are that Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) disconnected a large amount of customers' power yesterday after their bill for the last month was not even delivered to them. We were told that these customers were not given adequate notice before being disconnected [�]

Maya people of southern Belize win international prestigious award
For their efforts in preserving their traditional territories and resources, the Maya people of Belize, represented by the Maya Leaders Alliance (MLA), have been awarded the 2015 Equator prize, according to the Oak Foundation. The prestigious award highlights the efforts of indigenous people in Belize in gaining protection [�]

Can Belize's tourism industry rebound from lower arrivals?
Tourism industry website TravelPulse reviewed the ongoing situation regarding tourist arrivals in Belize, questioning whether the "flat numbers" of the first half of 2015 can pick up as the high season approaches. According to TravelPulse Belize hosted 1,804 less overnight visitors from January to July of this year, [�]

Blogs

Community Collaboration helps us all
Recognizing a need to build a blood supply for Ambergris Caye, Belize Red Cross - San Pedro Branch and the San Pedro Cancer Society are working together to hold a blood drive. It will be on Saturday October 3, 2015 from 9:00 am - 7:00 pm at the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic ll. This community collaboration is to increase the blood supply for Ambergris Caye Residents and a joint effort of the Belize Red Cross - San Pedro (BRCSP) in with the San Pedro Cancer Society, the Belize National Blood Transfusion Service (aka The Belize Blood Bank) and medical professionals of Belize to improve the process for Ambergris Caye residents to receive blood in time of need. By helping ensure that blood is available whenever members of the Ambergris Caye community or visitors require medical attention, your blood donation may one day save a life. It is important for residents of Ambergris Caye to recognize that there is a blood supply allocated for all island residents and visitors. Of greater importance is for all residents to recognize the necessity of the BRCSP blood drives on Ambergris Caye to keep a full supply of blood on hand at the Belize Blood Bank in Belize City.

San Pedro Belize's 2015 JUMP UP Parade - THE ENERGY! Part Two
Along the beach on what was a beautiful, INCREDIBLY hot day. We had all hoped for sun�AND WE GOT IT. Here is the parade�and the audience on Sunday. Good grief�it was FANTASTIC! And everyone ended in the park for a huge performance by Gilharry 7. And THEN a powder color party. This bloggist is too�old. I was BEAT by the heat. And headed home for a little nap. San Pedro - you killed it. Despite the rain-out and postponement�this parade was absolutely one of my favorites of all time.

Welcome to the Belize Jungle
This was a trip of firsts for me in a way too; it was my first trip to Belize. As we made our way with our driver to Pook's Lodge in the heart of the jungle, I was surprised and excited about what I saw of Belize. I was expecting a country that was quite developed and 'Americanized', but it was grittier and less developed than what I thought. I was excited not only because that's the type of travel I prefer, but I was excited to expose Allie to something that was quite different from her normal view. She said very little as we drove deeper into the jungle down bouncy, crumbling dirt roads. I wondered what was going through her head as she looked out the window at the simple living conditions and daily life of people in Belize. I wondered if she was car sick, I wondered if I needed to find the barf bag that I have learned to always carry with me on niece trips! The jungle touches many senses. Obviously from a visual perspective you are surrounded by dense green jungle everywhere you look - it's pretty amazing to think about what is inside that foliage, or to see geckos and lizards scurry. But you are also treated to jungle surround sound in the mornings. Waking up at Pooks Hill was a beautiful symphony of birds, bugs, geckos, and the occasional monkey. As the sun came up so did the volume creating a beautiful 'nature's alarm'. As cool and different as the jungle environment and creatures are, there's also a part of me that thinks - there are plenty of things in the jungle that I really don't want to see. The jungle held other challenges too - about as scary as bugs in your bed; we were completely unplugged from the grid. Horror! No cell, no texting, no internet, no Snapchat. "What if something is happening and I don't know about it!" Allie suddenly says as she lies on the bed fidgeting trying to figure out what to do with her phone, which is now as useful as a brick. She was like a meth head going through withdrawals from her phone and internet access. She didn't know what to do, so she sat around balancing a bottle on her head.

Top 35 Resorts in Belize
Have you ever tried to pick just 35 resorts out of the hundreds sprinkled like sugary sands across Belize? It's no easy job; there are amazing places everywhere you look. But as the saying goes, somebody's got to do it, so we are tackling the challenge. Grouped by area, any one of these gems will delight, surprise and pamper you.

This is Belize: When is a dog not a dog?
My friends Rodney and Wayo were enjoying a quiet night at Wayo's eponymously named beach bar in the Boca del Rio neighborhood of San Pedro, Belize Typical off-season night. Nobody else around. Except for Rodney's little dog, Miss Pearl. Miss Pearl is like an appendage to Rodney, himself a burly good old boy from Texas. If Miss Pearl isn't sitting quietly at his feet, the Jack Russell Terrier is perched contentedly on his shoulder. Where Rodney goes, Miss Pearl goes. "I think we should go club hopping," mused Wayo, while closing up his bar. So Rodney, Wayo and Miss Pearl piled into Rodney's golf cart and headed into town. Naturally, after stops like the Latino Club, they ended up at the biggest nightclub in town, Jaguar's across from Central Park. But before they could enter through the giant fanged jaws that lead to the pumping beats and crowded dance floor, a Jaws-sized policeman stepped between them and the entrance.

International Sourcesizz

Belize Seeks To Rebound From Flat 2015 Visitor Arrivals
In recent years among the fastest-growing Caribbean travel destinations, Belize is seeking to rebound from flat visitor growth during the first eight months of 2015, said Belize Tourism Board (BTB) officials. Belize hosted 214,177 overnight visitors between January and July, a 0.8 percent decline from the 215,981 travelers hosted during the same period in 2013, according to BTB statistics. Only in March did the destination register an increase over 2014 arrivals, with 39,136 overnight visitors compared with the 38,719 hosted in March of 2014. Belize also hosted its highest one-month visitor total in March. The country recorded its lowest overnight arrivals total in May with 24,707 visitors. Last year, Belize hosted 321,217 overnight visitors, a healthy 9.2 percent increase over 2013. BTB officials are hopeful that recent data indicates a turnaround is imminent. The country's overnight arrivals showed a 1.6 percent increase in June, and a 3 percent increase in July when compared with 2014 data.

Belize Program Combines Service Learning, Community Impact
University of Arkansas students interested in taking part in the education programs scheduled during the spring Study Abroad trip to Belize are invited to attend an informational meeting from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 12, in Room 206 of Peabody Hall. Faculty in the College of Education and Health Professions will lead projects to include teaching literacy skills to local students. The U of A students will also learn about the country's culture and visit historical and cultural places in Belize. They will receive 6 hours of course credit. The U of A has led the service-learning project in Belize since 2006. More information is available on the Office of Study Abroad & International Exchange website.

One Woman's Quest to Inspire Girls to Travel the World
When Tracey Friley first learned the staggering statistic that less than 38% of Americans have passports she began to wonder about another statistic-how many of that 60% included underserved communities, in particular young American girls? She learned the answer in 2010 when she led a travel camp to St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands with a group of young women. Instead of passports, the majority of the girls on that trip were traveling with their birth certificates. Since then, Friley has been called the "Pied Piper of Passports," and she has created The Passport Party Project, a grassroots initiative dedicated to getting passports in the hands of underrepresentedyoung women. She has garnered awards from National Geographic, American Express and the U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs and gained support from companies like Expedia, HomeAway and Heys Luggage, and since that first "passport party" has gotten passports for more than 150 girls aged 11 to 16. Once the young women have their passports, Friley organizes trips that will allow some of them to travel out of the country for the first time; so far to places like Belize, Paris and Toronto.

Fortis Announces Fourth Quarter Dividends
The Board of Directors (the "Board") of Fortis Inc. (the "Corporation") (FTS) today declared a common share dividend of $0.375 per share on the issued and outstanding fully paid Common Shares of the Corporation, payable on December 1, 2015 to the Common Shareholders of Record at the close of business on November 18, 2015. The 10.3% increase in the quarterly common share dividend is equivalent to an annualized common share dividend of $1.50. The Corporation is targeting annual dividend per common share growth of approximately 6% through 2020, based on a 2016 dividend of $1.50. "Fortis has achieved a number of significant goals that enhance value for our shareholders," says Barry Perry, President and Chief Executive Officer, Fortis Inc. "Our U.S. utility acquisitions, UNS Energy in Arizona and Central Hudson in New York, are fully integrated and performing well. The 335-megawatt Waneta Hydroelectric Expansion in British Columbia was successfully brought online in April and is operating consistent with plan. The non-core generation assets in Ontario and New York and commercial real estate were sold this year, with the sale of hotel assets pending. Recently, we reached a resolution with the Government of Belize regarding expropriation matters related to Belize Electricity.

Southern Miss Observes Maya Week
The University of Southern Mississippi is hosting Maya Week on its Hattiesburg campus the week of Sept. 29-Oct. 2. Hosted by the Department of Anthropology and Sociology, a lecture series over the course of the week will consist of four presentations of research from several sites in Belize and Guatemala. All of the presenters are recent Ph.D. recipients or doctoral candidates who have just returned from summer fieldwork and will be discussing their findings. The first presentation featured Amanda Harvey of the University of Nevada-Reno, who received her master's degree from Southern Miss in 2011. She presented "Three Decades of Research at Tipu, Bilize (1538-1613)," which is an analysis of the skeletal remains recovered from the colonial Maya site in Belize. The artifacts, which are currently curated at Southern Miss, date from the 16th and 17th centuries. Some of the week's other presenters will also be gathering data from the Tipu site to use in their own research while they are here, since it is one of the largest and best-preserved Mayan collections.

Caribbean Tourism Organization Wants Reform of Air Travel Regime
The Caribbean Tourism Organization on Tuesday urged regional authorities to foster competition among carriers through an "Open Skies" policy and to work toward eliminating secondary security screening at airports in Caribbean Community member-states. Open Skies would allow regional carriers, including LIAT, Caribbean Airlines, Air Antilles, Winair, SVG Air, InselAir, Hummingbird Air, Seaborne Airlines and Air Cara�bes, to fly without restriction within CARICOM, CTO Secretary General Hugh Riley said in a statement. In a speech last week at the World Routes 2015 forum in Durban, South Africa, Riley called for major collaboration in intelligence sharing and security processing.

Videos

  • San Pedro Parade, 1min. As usual Island Films does a beautiful job of capturing the spirit of Belize! The San Pedro Town Council would like to thank everyone for assisting all the events in celebration of Belize's Independence. We are really grateful for your cooperation and understanding when we decided to postpone the parade to a later date due to weather conditions. We would like to applaud all those who participated in the parade; this was only possible because of you. Thanks to your beautiful and elaborate costumes and decorations, San Pedro had a great and successful Independence Parade.

  • San Pedro Independence Day Jump Up Carnival, 4min. The biggest one-day blowout celebration on the island of Ambergris Caye definitely has to be the San Pedro Independence Day Jump Up Parade. The energy of the islanders anticipating the 'jump-up' as we call it in Belize, can be felt in the air as national pride is the driving force that fuels such passion to celebrate in grandeur. We can go on and on about how COLORFUL, ENERGETIC and WELCOMING the San Pedro Independence Day Parade Jump Up is, but all you need to do is look through the amazing images that we have captured for you to be fully convinced that you need to come experience this amazing event on La Isla Bonita

  • Blackbird Caye Resort, 3min.

  • St. Andrew's Chapel - Psalm 113, 4min. The Upper Division of St. Andrew's School lifts up a joyful noise to the Lord as they sing praises to their God!

  • CHRONIXX CONCERT 2015 BELIZE CITY, 61min. CHRONIXX BELIZE CITY AT THE RIVERSIDE TAVERN.

  • Xunantunich Ruins, Belize part 3, 13min. While touring Belize, our next adventure took us to the Mayan Ruins, Xunantunich. Located right on the border with Guatemala.

  • Belize Caye Caulker, 14min. On early British maps the island's name is spelled "Cay Corker." Known historically for its plentiful supply of exposed fresh water at La Aguada, one theory holds that this island was a favourite stop for sailors to replenish and cork water bottles. The Spanish name of the island is Cayo Hicaco, which means "the island of the cocoplum." "Caye Caulker" could be an anglicized pronunciation of Cayo Hicaco. Another theory is that boats were caulked in the protected bay, La Ensenada, on the western side of the island leading to the "Caulker" name.

  • Belikin ad: Funny or insulting?, 1min.
    Racist and insulting. It could be funny in a different social context. But you can't ignore the context that exists.
    Mien Guys lighten up..and enjoy the joke..you guys are the ones making the doctors rich..stop di ker up unnu presha fi simple things.."have a beer and a smile"

  • BATTLE OF THE DRUMS ROAD SHOW AD 2015, 1min.

  • Sunrise in Caye Caulker Belize, 6min. 'No Shirt, No Shoes�No Problem.' You'll see this sign everywhere in Belize, but no place is it more apt than Caye Caulker.

  • Bowen & Bowen -Belikin Beer commercial 2015, 1min.

  • The Road to Belize, 9min. Description Volunteering...the impact can be local or as far reaching as Belize...get involved in areas that mean the most to you.

  • Fresh squeezed coconut water Belize City, 2.5min.

  • Fresh Fish and Lobster Belize City Belize, 4min.

  • Welcome to Birds Isle and Sunsets in Belize, 6min.

  • BTL Park Belize, 3.5min.

  • Spooners Cafe Belize City Belize, 1min.

  • Walking the streets of Belize, 5min.

  • Boat ride to San Pedro Caye Belize, 3min.

  • Touring San Pedro Caye Belize Part 1, 8min.

  • Touring San Pedro Caye Belize Part 2, 6min.


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