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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

Clean Up Campaigns- Keeping the pretty island “pretty”
San Pedro, Ambergris Caye has for many years been a coveted destination for travelers. This beautiful island and its people have experienced exponential growth and development throughout the last thirty years and just like with anywhere else in the world-with growth- comes growing pains- these pains include sanitation! We are a beautiful coastal community, and while we are lucky to live in what many call paradise, it does come with responsibility, because trust us- we don’t always wake up to beautiful beaches. Every day loads of debris wash in with the evening’s tide (in some areas more than others). These include Sargasso and debris including garbage, that wash in from deeper seas. Whose responsibility is it then to clean up what’s been washed in? While the town council does presume the responsibility of cleaning the public beaches, that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t all do our parts- After all, it is most definitely our civic duty. Thankfully we realize that, as several volunteer groups have come together to tackle the problem of pollution. We give all these groups and they’re volunteers two-thumbs up and encourage everyone to volunteer!

David Miguel Nanes Schnitzer charged in Belizean courts for forged documents
47-year-old David Miguel Nanes Schnitzer, who was arrested in San Pedro Town on Tuesday, November 3rd, was brought before the Belize court on a single charge of producing a forged document. Nanes Schnitzer was arrested following a special operation conducted by the San Pedro Police Department, International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) and the US Marshals Service, as he is wanted in Mexico for involvement in the Allen Stanford Ponzi scheme. Before being extradited, Nanes Schnitzer will need to face charges before the Belizean tribunal for having an invalid driver’s license. After his arrest, Nanes Schnitzer was remanded to the Belize Central Prison and first appeared in court on Friday, November 6th where he pled guilty to the charge of having a fraudulent driver’s license (SP-2269) which was found on the day of his arrest. On his second hearing on Friday, November 9th, Nanes Schnitzer changed his plea from guilty to not guilty under advice from his Attorney-at-law Liesje Barrow Chung in hopes of being granted bail. But Chief Magistrate Anne Marie Smith still denied him bail, as he presents a high flight risk. Nanes Schnitzer will not appear in court again until Tuesday, December 4th, when Magistrate Smith with give her final ruling.

Island to celebrate Garifuna Settlement Day
With Garifuna Settlement Day slated for Thursday, November 19th, the San Pedro Branch of the National Garifuna Council has announced several activities which will be held to commemorate their culture and heritage. With the assistance of the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) and the San Pedro House of Culture (SPHC), the event will serve to promote and raise awareness on the vibrant Garifuna culture. This year’s celebrations are being held countrywide under the theme “Bungui Lerebei Sun Katei Lidan nei fureindei, Luma Benefau Awanseruni Houn Garinagu: God is the strength of all things, Garifuna Progress lies in Education and Hard Work. In San Pedro, activities kicked off on Thursday, November 5th with a presentation on Reef TV’s Morning Show. On Saturday, November 14th everyone is invited to participate in a Garifuna Cooking demonstration at Central Park from 10AM to 3PM. This will be followed by the Ms. Garifuna San Pedro Pageant scheduled on the same day at 7PM at the Honorable Louis Sylvester Sports Complex. Five lovely ladies will be contesting for the crown from reigning Miss Garifuna San Pedro Tisane Martinez. The contestants are Sheila Montero, Zennia Nunez, Nicole Dun, Michelle Martinez and Ashanti Martinez. The night will include entertainment by Black and White Charikanari Dancers, as well as great food and drinks. Tickets for the event are on sale at the SPTC at the following costs: Children – free, high school students – $5, adults – $10 and reserved -$15.

PM Barrow sworn in: Cabinet members and Senators appointed
After winning 19 out of 31 seats in the 2015 General Elections, the United Democratic Party (UDP) has officially taken over control of Central Government for its third consecutive term. As such, on Thursday, November 6th, UDP leader and elected Area Representative for the Queen’s Square Constituency, Honorable Dean Oliver Barrow, was sworn in by Governor General Sir Colville Young during a private ceremony as a three-peat Prime Minister. Following his official installation, Barrow announced the members of his Cabinet and Senate who will be assisting him in running the country for the term of 2015-2020. The official announcement was made on Monday, November 9th during a press conference at the Biltmore Plaza in Belize City.

SPRCS students enjoy some cool treats
There were big smiles on their faces as the students and staff from San Pedro Roman Catholic School (SPRCS) were treated to delicious paletas on Monday, November 9th. Courtesy of long time island visitors, Debby and Larry Heimgartner and Manelly’s Ice Cream Shop, over 1,000 popsicles (paletas) were handed out. The treats were definitely well received in this hot weather, as both students and teachers accepted them with much gratitude. For years, the Heimgartners have distributed these tasty strawberry and chocolate treats to the students and staff of SPRCS as a form of appreciation towards the community for the support and hospitality that has been extended to them. “We are happy to be giving back to San Pedro and that the children are enjoying these treats,” said Larry. He also commented that when he first started, there were under 500 students and today, that number has doubled!

Ambergris Today

Belize Declares November 29 “Small Country Sunday”
Small businesses often struggle to stand out when they’re up against big-box retailers, and small countries—like Belize—can feel the same effects. With the busiest travel and shopping season ahead, the Belize Tourism Board is putting an exotic twist on shopping local and encouraging travelers to book like they buy: small. As a result, Belize declares that Sunday, November 29 will mark the inaugural “Small Country Sunday,” a day to honor small nations and encourage travelers to book their adventure somewhere new. “We’re thrilled to announce this initiative,” says Karen Bevans, Director of Tourism at the Belize Tourism Board. “Small Country Sunday is a movement to connect travelers to Belize, who struggle to compete with the big budgets and infrastructure that many larger countries have. This program will directly impact the livelihood of many small business owners and families who rely on tourism.”

Residents Shocked About News of Fugitive Caught in San Pedro
“David was a regular customer here at the restaurant and bar,” commented a local resident in North Ambergris Caye. “He came in daily and became a friend throughout the two years. I was shocked when I learnt this news about him! Especially his wife, she was a sweet person (At least that’s how I know her). Reminded me of Rjay who was extradited few years back whom I was roommates with! He did seem a little stressed out lately!” “David and Elizabeth frequented our establishment as well; as a matter of fact, our first dollar came from them -- we have it signed on our door,” commented another business owner in North Ambergris Caye. “We also became friends with both of them and are still in shock about this news.” David pleaded guilty on the count of his forged documents at Belize’s Magistrate’s Court; his bail was denied on the grounds that he is a flight risk and was remanded to Belize Central Prison. While Stanford has since been convicted and sentenced to a hundred and ten years in prison, there are no criminal charges pending against Nanes in the United States.

Misc Belizean Sources

Training of Trainers Business Labs on IP and Product Branding for Creative Industries
SBDCBelize in partnership with Young Americas Business Trust (YABT), Organization of American States (OAS), Ministry of MASHAV – Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Jerusalem and The Golda Meir Mount Camel International Training Centre (MCTC) coordinated a five day Business Lab focused on Intellectual Properties and Commercialization of Creative Industries held from November 9th to November 13th, 2015 at the Belize Training and Employment Centre (BTEC) Building located in Freetown Road, ITVET Compound, Belize City. The objective of this workshop is to provide tools and skills to national institutions that implement economic development programs by providing potential local trainers and facilitators with a flexible and effective methodology to create a heightened awareness among nationals and to explore opportunities along with the related steps to start up their business. Additionally, it will focus on providing participants with hands on training and helping them acquire tools that will aid them in the development of innovative ideas and their implementation.

Regional Strengthening of Health Services and Efficient Accessibility of Ambulances throughout Belize
As Belize strives to enhance a sustainable and effective health system throughout the country, the Ministry of Health is proactively seeking to scale up and maintain regional health clinics and hospitals in line with the growing demands in health. In line with this, the Ministry of Health has procured and will be handing over six (6) new ambulances on Wednesday, November 11th in the Ministry of Health Parking Lot, Belmopan. These ambulances will be placed across the different regions, namely: Punta Gorda, San Antonio, Independence, Dangriga, Orange Walk and San Ignacio/Benque. The ambulances will be officially handed over to regional managers and administrators of the polyclinics and hospitals mentioned above. This equitative distribution by the Ministry of Health is regarded as a further improvement and response that these clinics must have in order to improve health services throughout Belize.

Bartender needed on CayeCaulker
Meldy's is looking for a male bartender to work from 6:30am to 3pm. Must be flexible, punctual and willing to work on holidays and flexible hours. Please contact 629 0202 to schedule an interview. We are located in Caye Caulker.

Ti Bum has passed away
"She no bizniz" as the song says, but the local dancer featured in the Ti Boom Boom video by Reckless passed in the month that honours her culture.

Miss Divali Nagar Pageant
Miss Namita Balani, Miss East Indian 2015-2016. Miss Namita Balani, who won the Miss East Indian Belize 2015 – 2016 Cultural Pageant, organized by the Corozal Organization of East Indian Cultural Heritage (COEICH), is presently in Trinidad and Tobago where she will be proudly representing Belize in the Miss Divali Nagar Pageant on Sunday, November 8, 2016. Other participants hail from Trinidad & Tobago, Canada, Surinam, Jamaica and Florida. Ms. Namita is doing very well in the preliminary activities and we do hope she can bring home the crown! The pageant will be broadcasted on ZEE TV. COEICH wishes her all the best as she represents Belize and we also encourage young ladies of East Indian descent to participate in our annual Miss East Indian Cultural pageant to be held in August 2016. We are pleading to the Belizean public to visit the National Council of Indian Culture of Trinidad and Tobago’s (NCIC TT) Facebook page and like Ms. Namita’s picture as this can help her win Ms. Popularity. Any help and consideration will be much appreciated.

Crocodiles in Corozal Bay
We have received numerous reports of two crocodiles roaming in our Corozal Bay for some time now. One has been spotted in-front of Rainbow Park and the smaller one has been seen between Scotty's Bay Inn and Scotty's Bar & Grill. Swimmers should be careful and exercise caution when venturing into these waters. Here is a photo of the smaller one taken in-front of Scotty's Bar & Grill. We ask the Forestry Department and other relevant authorities to please take note and action in relocating these two crocodiles.

BWRC Auction Gala
The Belize Wildlife Referral Clinic's 2nd annual Auction Gala fundraiser is on Saturday the 21st, and the SIRH. There will be great food, entertainment, and plenty of great silent auctions. "Don't forget to purchase your tickets for BWRC's Annual Auction Gala at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel to support BWRC's free medical care and rehabilitation for imperilled wildlife!"

Guava Limb Café: Sharing Knowledge with Tourism & Culinary Students
The Guava Limb Cafe hosted 7 Tourism students from the Centro Escolar Mexico, to give them some insight into the tourism and restaurant business. Thanks, Guava Limb! In related news, they are almost done with their latest upgrade, and the new kitchen is fully functional...and still preparing the same amazing food. "7 young and energetic students from The Centro Escolar Mexico in the Corozal District made their way to Western Cayo to visit the restaurant of the year 2015, The Guava Limb Café."

Paradise Theater: Playing this weekend!
Ricki And The Flash, No Escape, American Ultra, The Outfield

Paint N Splash in San Pedro
This Thursday at Crazy Canucks Beach Bar 2p.m.

Calendar of classes and workshops offered at Belize Botanic garden
Evening classes will be held at the Garden Shop, 37 West Street, San Ignacio: 6pm-8pm. All-day classes will be held at Belize Botanic Gardens: 7:30am-3pm. Bring notebook, pen, gardening clothes and water bottle to all classes! Instructors: Rudy Aguilar, Freddy Tut and Josue Mai instructors of BBG’s two-year Professional Gardeners’ Programme, funded by duPlooy’s Jungle Lodge and the EU. 1. SOILS and ORGANIC FERTILIZERS $80 per person Two part class: Saturday 14th Nov. 7:30am- 3:00pm; Saturday, 21st Nov. 7:30am-3:00pm Healthy, vibrant plants need healthy, balanced soils. You can improve your garden by understanding how to assess and then amend the soil. Bring container to bring home your own organic fertilizer! Topics include: Soil Mixes, Soil Types, Rock Fertilizers, Manures, Compost, Liquid Fertilizers. 2. PLANT PROPAGATION $120 per person Two evening classes plus two full days: Friday, 27th Nov., 6pm – 8 pm; Saturday, 28th Nov., 7:30 am to 3 pm; Friday, 4th Dec., 6pm – 8 pm; Saturday, 5th Dec., 7:30 am to 3 pm Producing your own plants from seeds you have saved, or from cuttings, slips of plants, or pieces of root, can be a rewarding hobby or profitable business. Bring home your own “plant baby”! Topics include: Grafting, Budding, Plant layering, Cuttings, Seed planting.

Saga Humane Society 2015 Auction is now open
With only forty-four days until Christmas, and Thanksgiving in the US right around the corner, many of us are searching for that perfect holiday gift. Well look no further. The Saga Foundation has some fantastic gift ideas for you in the 2015 Holiday Auction. Our generous business owners here in San Pedro have donated activities and excursions, golf cart rentals, meals galore and some amazing accomodations. There is something for everyone. You even have the option to "Buy Now" if you don't want to wait until the auction closes on December 15, 2015. And remember, all proceeds will go directly to the care of the animals of Saga Humane Society.

Boledo Drawing: November 11, 2015: 11

Donation to the San Pedro Cancer Society
Mayor Daniel Guerrero and Councilor Ruben Gonzalez presented a cheque of $5000.06 to the President and Members of the San Pedro Cancer Society. This total was collected on the Dollar Drives that was made by the Staff of the San Pedro Town Council in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We thank the public for being a part of the Dollar Drive, from the smallest to the biggest contributor. Thank you!

His Excellency Oren Bar El, Ambassador of Israel to the Republic of El Salvador, makes a courtesy visit to Mayor Daniel Guerrero while traveling our country

Government of Belize Provides New Vehicles to the Belize Police Department.
The Government of Belize, through the Ministries of Finance and National Security, has purchased 10 new patrol vehicles for the Belize Police Department at a cost of BZ$280,000. The vehicles were officially handed over to the Police Department today, November 11, at the Belmopan Police Station. The vehicles will be distributed to the formations in Belize City, Ladyville, Belmopan, Dangriga, San Ignacio, the Intermediate Southern Formation (Independence Village) and the Special Patrol Unit (headquarters in Belmopan). Minister of National Security Hon. John Saldivar presented the keys to Commissioner of Police Allen Whylie, who received them on behalf of the Belize Police Department.

BLACK SMOKE BLOWN AT THE SUGAR CANE FARMERS OF THE NORTH
We have read from media reports that "the first estimate for prices of raw sugar cane has been released, and it is a blow to farmers in the North who have a record amount of cane in the field for the upcoming sugar crop. Producers Belize Sugar Industries Limited (BSI) have estimated a price of $41.56 per ton, with some 1.225 million tons of cane available from which BSI expects to mill 129,000 tons of sugar. However, according to former BSCFA president and branch leader Alfredo Ortega, there is more than that amount available. According to BSI officials the low estimate price reflects the prices in the EU market and they claim to have started seeing this since last year but it did not have an impact then due to prices in former contracts with Tate & Lyle that extended to the 2015 crop. The drop in the EU market is below the minimum price of 4.25 euros that was in the last contract with Tate and Lyle.

Detour at the Corozal Community Hospital
We would like to inform the general public of a temporary detour at the Corozal Community Hospital for the rest of this week. The reason being the Hospital driveway will be grated and paved this week. In the mean time, parking in the rear of the hospital can be accessed by a temporary road near the eye center, just after the round about. We apologize for any inconvenience; however, this project will greatly improve the quality of service for the residents of Corozal.

Channel 7

Four On-Base For The PUP; Who Will Rise on January 31?
The PUP met at party headquarters today for the first time since their bruising election defeat a week ago. The party called all executive members and standard bearers to a farewell luncheon for outgoing party leader Francis Fonseca. The various candidates all arrived between 12:00 and 12:30. Only one man was missing – and that is the guest of honour – Francis Fonseca. He arrived close to 1:00 pm and joined his colleagues at an event where – we are told – he received unanimous praise. After that luncheon, the members of the executive remained for a meeting to discuss principally – the national convention which needs to be held to elect a new leader among other posts. That meeting ended around 3:15 pm – and Chairman of the Party Henry Usher gave the media a briefing on what was decided:…. Henry Usher - Chairman, Fort George "We will have a national convention. There was some question whether it would have been special convention to elect a party leader or a national convention. It was decided by the majority of the national executive that we will have a national convention. The date of the national convention will be the 31st of January that is a Sunday in 2016. We will have a deadline for nominations for the open post of the 15th of December 2015 and of course the deadline for the delegates list to come in around the same time. By the constitution it has to be 30 days prior to the date of the national convention."

Briceno Makes It Plain
And while Briceno didn’t want to talk to us there – yesterday, he did speak to his own TV Station, CTV-3 back in Orange Walk. The former leader made it public that he is seriously considering offer himself for leader at the National Convention: Hon. John Briceno - Area Representative, Orange Walk Central "Will I do it, like I said it is always a great privilege to be the leader of the PUP, so it's not something I take likely and I am seriously considering it that is something that I will probably do. But before I make that final decision, I think I need to continue to talk to my colleagues and trying to put together a winning formula so that we will be able to do the work that needs to be done; there is a lot of work to be done especially after every lost."

Cordel Considering
Lake Independence Representative Cordel Hyde has also expressed interest in pursuing the leadership post. Today he told the press he’s been receiving a lot of calls of support and is considering it:… Hon. Cordel Hyde - Area Representative, Lake I "We've had a lot of request, a lot of well wished, a lot of encouragement from a lot of people all over the country; whether through text, through e-mail messages, whether through Facebook messages encouraging us to take the plunge and step up to the challenge at hand and I can tell you that we are seriously considering it at this moment. We're talking to a lot of people and it's a big deal but it's one that we are taking very seriously and we don't have to make that decision today, tomorrow or the day after. Truth be told in this meeting that is coming up right now is a good chance that they will give us until the middle of December to get in our names and a convention won't be due until early in the first quarter."

Is Chinese Businessman Responsible For Andy Avilez Death?
In police news tonight – investigators are trying to determine if a man named Andy Avilez died as a result of injuries he received in a fight with a Chinese businessman early last month. The entire ordeal started back on October 9th when 52 year old Chen Wen Hua from a popular hotel in the area of Dolphin Drive got into a fight with 51 year old Avilez who he claims to have caught stealing tools. Now Avilez is very well known to police and the cops say they found the men wrestling a drain: Wen Hua said Avilez caught him on the side of his face with an iron rod. Avilez was charged with wounding, and when was taken to court on October 13th, he pleaded guilty. But he had a different account of what transpired and said police were fabricating a story against him. He said he was riding my bicycle, picking up bottles out of a drain and that’s when he felt someone strike him in the head. He says he fell and and the person continued to flog him. Avilez said he had to go to the doctor, and showed the Chief Magistrate a doctor paper where he said he spend 6 days in the hospital.

Belmopan Police Looking Into Saldivar's Supporter
And in another controversial police case, tonight Belmopan police are commenting on that John Saldivar supporter who allegedly fired a gunshot into the air. On Friday, we showed you that viral video which showed John Saldivar calling off police who intended to detain the man they suspected of discharging a firearm in public. Saldivar says that he was trying to defuse a possible mob scene with his supporters who may have attacked the police had they pushed the issue. The Prime Minister accepts his explanation, but what about the police themselves? Saldivar is once again their minister - and their boss - but this evening, Commander of the Belmopan Police made the point that he can see Saldivar’s point, but that his officers will deal with anyone who breaks the law. Here’s what he had to say to our colleagues from Plus TV this evening:

Cane Country Blues
Last night, we told you how the low international prices of sugar may threaten the local industry. The cane farmers are heavily invested, and they have loans at the bank to service. Today, our News team travelled to Orange Walk to speak with a few of the farmers to get a first-hand perspective on the loss of earnings that could come out of the next sugar season. Daniel Ortiz has that story: All these sugar cane stalks, tall and numerous, belong to cane farmer Marcel Gutierrez, They're about ready to be harvested, and Guiterrez and his family have been preparing for the opening of the new season which should take place later in this month. This is a huge investment for him and his family, and the only way of life he’s known for the past 22 years. He says the problem with the 21% pay cut that’s been announced is that he won’t get a return which will allow him to pay his loan to the bank which financed his cane fields. Marcel Gutierrez - OW Cane Farmer "I made a loan this year the differential price will be good and not be good. For approximately the next year I will can't clean my cane fields, not fertilize, nor pay my workers to clean the cane because it will be a very low reduction of price. And it's very hard with me and family to survive on this low price of cane."

7 New Ambulances To Be Deployed
The ambulances are finally here. In May, former Health CEO Peter Allen told us that the Ministry of Finance had approved the purchase of 6 ambulances and that they were just working on the delivery details. Well, they were delivered and officially handed over at the Ministry of Health’s Belmopan Office today. We spoke to Minister Pablo Marin about these long awaited ambulances and how they will improve health services across the country. Hon. Pablo Marin - Minister of Health "It’s 7 ambulances that we have received. Its money from the Ministry of Health from the PCP and that is why 4 of the ambulances are going down south. They are going to PG, Independence, San Antonio, Dangriga; that's 4 of them. We'll take one to Cayo and one to Benque and one has already been delivered to Corozal; that was the first one we got. As you can see it’s the first time ever we have 7 new ambulances in the country and we are looking already to purchase 2 more. One will be for Orange Walk and the other one will be looking at where the next one should be going."

Hon. Pablo and Health: A Ways To Go
Now these Great Wall ambulances were scheduled to be delivered just before the election – but shipping delays pushed that back to this week. So it comes as a post election bonus, a sort of fresh start for Minister Pablo Marin’s re-election and re-assumption of the cabinet portfolio. Hon. Pablo Marin - Minister of Health "I feel proud of myself. I feel proud of my staff that we have accomplished so much in the Ministry of Health. We have received grants from the Japanese that's about 5 million dollars. We have received grants from the European Union. We have invested in clinics around the country. We have fixed the labs in the country. We have fixed pharmacies in the country." "In Corozal the operating theatre was removed from Corozal and taken only in the region of Orange Walk. I have opened an operating theatre in Corozal and its working. In San Pedro, you had an 8 hour service in San Pedro; now I can boast I have a 24 hour service in San Pedro. Benque, we had an 8 hour service; now we are implementing a 12 hour service in Benque and that we have done all over the country. We are looking now to do a hospital in San Pedro which we needed. We need to do a hospital in PG; we definitely need that. And these things we have done through time, so how is it that they will say that the Ministry of Health has not improved?"

Western Regional: Betta Must Come
And on that list of improvements is the Western Regional Hospital. The Hospital Management and the Ministry have come under heavy criticism after a series of unfortunate incidents, culminating in a rat biting a new born in an incubator. Minister Marin told us that they are very serious about eventually building a new hospital. Hon. Pablo Marin - Minister of Health "Definitely we are going to continue to do renovation of the Western Regional Hospital; which is an old hospital. We need to do a lot renovation there. This 30 million dollars that we are going to get will improve the facility tremendously. The operating theatre that we have at the Western Region is new operating theatres; so that will be added to this new building that we're going to do. And eventually we need to tear down the old one and rebuild it again; but it takes time and also I'm asking the people working at the hospitals to have a little more love to their job and to give that extra mile in the hospitals. The hospitals are for the people and we have to realise that eventually myself or maybe one of my family will go to the hospital and then you need to take care of them."

WRH Vendors Doing Ok, But Want Better
Apart from the renovations, another issue on the hospital grounds was the vendors. They were removed from the premises and forced to sell outside the compound. Well, when we spoke to one of the vendors today he told us that business is going very well but that he and all the vendors would still prefer to be back on the compound. Russell Arnold Jr. - Vendor "It's about 2 months now since we are out there from inside to outside the hospital and business still going on, it's not bad. People still come in and buy because they see us coming out every day. It's raining, right now I'm filling up and we are not giving up, we are coming out every day and city council come and when I went to them they gave us a letter to move but since 2 months ago they didn't move us. They told us fill the spot and we can stay until they can give us help back inside." Courtney Weatherburne "So you guys are still managing out here?" Russell Arnold Jr. - Vendor "Yeah, we are still managing out here. Business move different because people just pass through coming in and buy from us; which that never does happen."

Progress After Peter?
As we told you, CEO Peter Allen has been replaced by Dr. Ramon Figueroa in the Ministry of Health. Allen is now the CEO in the Ministry of Finance, Public Service, Energy and Public Utilities. Marin told us – sure, Allen will be missed but the Ministry will also benefit from Figueroa’s expertise. Hon. Pablo Marin - Minister of Health "I will miss Peter Allen, I will not say no but remember Dr. Ramon was already the DHS and for him to be able to come as the CEO it's just for me a plus and now I'm going to have Dr. Manzanero as the DHS; which is he is a workaholic and I know that he will give another good part for the Ministry of Health. And I think everybody in the Ministry is happy about it even though when they talk about Peter Allen they say he's a little bit too strict; English man like. But in that manner we have to say thanks to Peter Allen because we have gotten a lot of grants because of his dedication to the ministry." Peter Allen had been the Health CEO from 2008.

Sustainable Energy Showcase
It’s Caricom Energy Week – and – in it’s final pre-election gasp - the now dismantled Ministry of Energy, Science & Technology and Pubic Utilities organized what’s called an energy expo. It’s an effort to raise awareness about sustainable energy sources as a key to sustainable development. We found out more form the organizer:… Ryan Cob - Energy Officer, Ministry of Energy "We're inviting the general public and schools to come in and learn about the energy sector. We'll be having different booths by Pro Solar, BECOL, DFC, BNE as to educate one, the school children about energy sector but because we're bringing all the public to one general location we also needed to have a way for people to finance these types of things. These technologies are relatively expensive so that's why we've invited the DFC along here as well at the expo because they have a line of credit so as to support these type of technology and activities. It's a one stop shopping centre basically that we're providing here today. It's economic that's driving us, so all the interventions, all of the recommendation that we are doing; yes policy helps to motivate it but it's economics that actually drives it." It was a one-day event.

Wesley Students Learn Garifuna Culture Intuitively
It’s one week before Garifuna Settlement Day, but Wesley High School in the Albert Area today went out of its way to re-enact the arrival of the Gairfuna to these shores. It’s called yurumein, and the re-enactment requires that the actors come in to shore on canoes – or the next best thing. Today in a sudden squall the next best thing was the Coast Guard – who assisted with two very sea worthy vessels. But whether canoe or coast Guard, you could still hear the drums coming to shore. 7News was there for the arrival:…

V Is For Veterans
If you took notice today you probably saw lots of folks walking around with a red poppy pinned on their clothing. It’s not a decoration or accessory – it’s a sign of remembrance for the men and women who fought and served during World Wars 1 and 2. Tonight, we take you back to 1914 and tell you why today is significant. “In Flanders fields the poppies blow. Between the crosses, row on row,” Those are the 2 opening lines of the Great War Poem written by Canadian John McCrae in 1915. It was written in remembrance of all the men who fought in World War 1 and 2. At the Ex-Servicemen League’s office, the walls are filled with picture frames of men and women who played a key role in the war.

Community Endorsement For Northside Cops
Today, the police from precinct three went into the community for their meet and greet. Now, we’re always showing you the southside cops going on their community rounds – but today precinct three from the northside was making the rounds. We found them in Rhaburn’s Alley off New Road where the partnership was evident:…

Marching With Meaning
And the community policing unit in precinct two got their own kind of community endorsement with the gift of eight thousand dollars worth of Marching Band Equipment at the Yabra Community Centre. Sergeant Brent Hamilton told us more: The Police Youth Cadets marching band comprises 40 members.

Great Wall For Great Cops
In our last segment, we told you about the ambulances that were delivered to the Ministry of Health. Well, 10 patrol vehicles – also Great Wall Brand - were also handed over to the Belize Police Department today in Belmopan. These patrol vehicles will be distributed in Belize City, Ladyville, Belmopan, Dangriga, San Ignacio and Independence Village. The cost of all the patrol vehicles is $280,000.

Channel 5

Will Cordel Hyde Replace Francis Fonseca as New P.U.P. Leader?
The biggest single issue on the political front in this week following the 2015 general election is the leadership vacuum in the Opposition People’s United Party. The day after a [...]

Lake-I Area Rep Says P.U.P. Needs to Renew Itself
Hyde says that successive failures have shown that it is time to stop paying lip service to change, and to make something happen. He wants to be an agent of [...]

Where Does Julius Espat Factor Into Leadership Equation?
Current Deputy Leader Julius Espat has also found himself thrown into the mix for leader. Today he didn’t go so far as to confirm that he will submit his name [...]

Julius Seconds the Notion for Urgent Change in P.U.P.
Espat agrees with Cordel Hyde that the Party needs to go back to its roots and shake things up, since the package currently being served isn’t getting the job done. [...]

Kareem Musa – Is He Also at the Gate for Leadership Race?
One name thrown into the leadership race is Caribbean Shores Area Representative Kareem Musa. He’s relatively new, with only one very significant, but recent victory under his belt. Like Espat, [...]

EU Sugar Prices, Cause for Concern Up North
The 2015/2016 sugar crop is slated to start in the next fourteen days, but the news tonight is that while sugar prices on the world markets are good, prices in [...]

No Post Mortem Into P.U.P.’s Defeat at Polls, Full Steam Ahead
Those interviews with P.U.P. representatives were done at Independence Hall, where the P.U.P. held its National Executive meeting following a luncheon with leader Francis Fonseca. Chairman Henry Charles Usher told [...]

New P.U.P. Party Leader Will Choose Opposition Senators
Another decision that was taken at the Executive meeting of the People’s United Party is that as it relates to the senate, the status quo remains.  The three senators who [...]

Sugar Assessment Incomplete Says B.S.I. Official
Earlier we told you about the low sugar prices that farmers will be paid for the new sugar crop. There is another issue that is bubbling. It involves the results of [...]

Still No Arrest in Election Day Shooting
Exactly seven days after a man fired his weapon into the air in front of hundreds of witnesses on election night, there has been no arrest. The alleged shooter, identified [...]

Will Minister of Police Be Investigated for Role in Incident?
Discharging a firearm in public is a criminal offence. So is obstruction. And from the video, there it appears that there was obstruction by John Saldivar and by his supporters [...]

Bottle Picker Dies After Being Badly Beaten By Chinese Businessman
There is an ongoing criminal investigation into the death of fifty-one-year-old Arlie Andrew Avilez of Belize City. Avilez passed away since October but a post mortem examination has just been [...]

Popular Belize City Tailor Charged for Sexual Assault of Minor
There is another investigation ongoing by the Crime Investigation Branch in which a well-known Belize City tailor is at the center of a sexual assault allegation. A fourteen year old [...]

8 Years of UB Market Expo
A market expo showcasing the ingenuity and creativity of students from the University of Belize was held today in Belize City. A large array of products made by the students [...]

6 New Ambulances for Health Sector; 10 New Police Vehicles Received
A fleet of badly needed vehicles has been acquired for the Ministry of Health and another by the Ministry of National Security. The Ministry of Health says that it has [...]

Youth Cadets Receive Marching Band Equipment
A rather hefty donation of marching band equipment, including drums and cymbals, was also handed over today to the Cadet Corps of the Eastern Police Division South. The donation was [...]

Indian Community Celebrates Diwali in Belize
Every year around this time, the Indian Community celebrates their new year. Known as Diwali or Deepawali, it is a festival of lights that religiously commemorates the return of King [...]

CTV3

Police Narrow Investigation On Whereabouts Of Anthony Quim
Orange Walk Police have narrowed their search for twelve year old Anthony Quim on the island of Ambergris Caye after receiving information of his whereabouts. Reports to our newsroom indicate that Quim may be in the company of two elder boys, one of which we have been able to acquire a recent photograph. Police say they believe Quim is in the company of Milton Canchan and another minor in the San Pedrito Area of San Pedro Town. As of newstime though, police have been unable in locating the missing boys. Meanwhile, police asks anyone with information on their whereabouts to come forward or call the mother, Xiomara Quim at 665-8084. We’ll keep monitoring this story for any developments…

BSCFA Orange Walk Branch Meets With ASR/BSI On Way Forward Of Industry
As sugar cane farmers brace to face significant financial crisis, there is one option that organizations and even BSI may take. That is to approach lending institutions and lobby for a more accommodating repayment plan to help ease the blow from the price cut in the coming crop. Chairman of the Orange Walk Branch of the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association, Alfredo Ortega says this was discussed in a meeting on Tuesday. “We as an organization we are looking forward, yesterday we had the meeting with representative from BSI and we told them that we need to join hands together to have a chat with the financial institutions to see how best we can find a way on having the institution at least contemplating at least on how they can balance with those farmers because as you know currently as is what this price is doing is pushing the farmers five steps further to poverty, we have been in poverty and with this situation is chasing the farmers and not only the farmers but also those people that re depending on the crop not only on the crop but those that are doing the necessary husbandry at the cane field level so this situation will really put a negative impact to the cane farming community and it will chase us to a poverty situation if nothing is being done that is very important for us that we negotiate with the institution to see how best they can alleviate this situation in regards to what amount will they going to be charging the farmers for the upcoming crop.”

Police Arrest And Charged Miguel Chata For Attempt Burglary
In other crime news from the North, police in orange walk have arrested and charged a burglar who attempted to burglarize Hilda’s Hotel located on Zericote Street. Authorities say the quick response from the Hotel’s security led to the detention of a male who is no stranger to the law. “Ruben Guerra, Belizean businessman of 13th Guadalupe Street, reported that on given date at about 2:30am whilst at his home he got a phone call from his security guard who informed him that someone is trying to break into his business establishment Hilda’s Hotel on Zericote Street, Orange Walk Town, Mr. Guerra informed police who responded and caught Miguel Chata , a Belizean unemployed of San Lorenzo Housing Site who was seeing jumping out of the yard with a machete in his hand, police have arrested and charged Miguel Chata for the crime of attempt burglary.”

BSCFA Orange Walk Branch Requesting Increase In Pound Of Sugar
There may be an increase in the price of sugar on the local market. Following the announcement of the first payment to sugar cane farmers for the coming crop, stakeholders have begun discussions on the way forward to remain in the industry and be more competitive in the international market, ensuring the sustainability of the industry in Belize. With the new price cut, farmers look for ways to cushion the financial blow and are preparing to approach the government with a proposal to increase the price of sugar in the country which has stood at fifty cents per pound for about fifteen years says Chair of the Orange Walk Branch of the BSCFA Alfredo Ortega. “We have been asking the government to increase this price so that farmers can have at least a little bit of pillow in regards to dollars per ton of cane, a math was made that if the price of pound of sugar is increased for twenty five cents farmers are able to get five dollars per ton of cane delivered so that is something that was charged to the Chairman of the SICB Board about two years ago...

Belizean Hindu Community Celebrates New Year - DEWALI
And before we leave you tonight, members of Belize’s Hindu Community are busy celebrating their new year. It is called Diwali, or the festival of lights, a time when Hindus all over the world pray for blessings. The scenes on your screen are from celebrations in India, which included dancing, games, skits, firecrackers, fireworks and other entertainment. It is particularly associated with Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, and marks the beginning of the fiscal year in India. This special day, is widely celebrated by Indians residing all over the globe. Similar to the Easter season, this date varies every year and falls normally between the months of October and November following the traditional Indian calendar. Here in Belize, there is a gathering at the Belize Hindu Temple to celebrate the Festival of Lights. The Indian community comes together and lights a candle after which everyone continues to socialize, greet and wish one another a successful year.

LOVE FM

Remembrance Day Observed in Belize
Remembrance Day or as some may know it, Veterans Day, is being celebrated today in memory of World War 1 when fighting ceased when an resolution, or temporary end of warfare, between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. For that reason, […]

The Future of the PUP Mouthpieces ….. Belize Times/Vibes Radio
It is no secret that the main Opposition Party has been grappling with some serious financial woes in recent years. A struggle that the PUP has never seen before as it has always had the physical and financial wherewithal to rally supporters, sparing no expense. With another five years of being in opposition, Love News […]

PUP Chairman Speaks on Election Outcome
It is no secret that the main Opposition Party has been grappling with some serious financial woes in recent years. A struggle that the PUP has never seen before as it has always had the physical and financial wherewithal to rally supporters, sparing no expense. With another five years of being in opposition, Love News […]

Manifesto Review: Sports and Infrastructure
Tonight we continue with our recapping of the UDP Manifesto Promises made on October 21 at the party’s Secretariat on Youth for the Future Drive. Yesterday we brought you the commitments made in the financial sector with the objective of managing the country’s debt and borrowing as well as giving the local business persons a […]

PUP Senators Remain
Friday, November 13 will be the first official gathering of the elected Area Representatives and appointed Senators at the National Assembly in Belmopan. According to the Chairman of the PUP, the three Opposition Senators will not be changed. HENRY CHARLES USHER “In terms of the Parliamentary appointments we have a joint meeting of the House […]

Union Lifts Strike Action Against CIBC First Caribbean Int’l Bank
Staff who are members of the Christian Workers Union at First Caribbean International Bank have decided to lift their strike against the financial institution. As you may recall, these employers picketed in front of the bank in an effort to display their frustration and discontent with the management of FCIB. The strike started about 14 […]

PUP Sets Date for Election of New Party Leader
During today’s National Executive meeting of the PUP, it was decided that the National Convention will take place in early 2016. That is where a new Party Leader and some posts in the National Executive will be up for election. Chairman, Henry Usher explained. HENRY CHARLES USHER “A National Convention which means that other posts […]

PUP Meets Following Announcement of Fonseca’s Resignation
The National Executive of the People’s United Party met just after one o’clock this afternoon at Independence Hall in Belize City. Chairman of the PUP, Henry Charles Usher spoke to us on what the agenda entailed. HENRY CHARLES USHER “We had a meeting at the National Executive. We had three items on the agenda, the […]

Upcoming Conference Will Bring Women Together for Business Growth
Women Entrepreneurship Day is a movement that is about celebrating and supporting and empowering women who are entrepreneurs. On November 25, there will be a Leadership Conference for growth-oriented business women to link and experience in-person interaction, acquire knowledge and learn how to grow their businesses. Danalyn Myvett, President of Belize Centre for Training and […]

Belize Tourism Board Holds Small Country Sweepstakes
The Belize Tourism Board has embarked on a new marketing initiative called Small Country Sunday. According to a release issued by the BTB, Small Country Sunday is a movement to connect travellers to Belize, who struggle to compete with the big budgets and infrastructure that many larger countries have. This program will directly impact the […]

PlusTV

Did Minister of National Security Obstruct Justice? Police respond…
On the night of the elections, Plus TV got an exclusive video of recently re-elected area representative John Saldivar as he ordered the police personnel who were stationed at the Belmopan counting Station at Comprehensive High School to back off as they moved in to arrest a man whom they suspected ...

PUP’s talk about new leader options
Last week we told you about open vacancy for party leader in the People’s United Party. Several names have since been tossed into the conversation when considering the viable options within the PUP. Some of those names include Kareem Musa, John Briceno, Julius Espat and Cordel Hyde. On Friday, Espat...

San Ignacio Police arrest one of their own
San Ignacio police have arrested one of their own for police brutality. Over a month ago, a resident of San Ignacio, Gustavo Williams, reported to authorities that while he was detained at the station for domestic problems, 26 year old Police Constable Kent Thompson opened the cell door and beat him...

Man arrested at bus stop for cannabis
Camalote police conducted a search at a bus stop where they found 64.8grams of Cannabis. On Monday the 9th of November, while police were on mobile patrol in Camalote Village, they conducted searches on several individuals at a bus stop. One individual was 22-year-old Shaquille Wayne Banner of Belmo...

Barber shop search led to discovery of Cannabis
A police search in a barber shop led to the discovery of 215 grams of Cannabis. On Tuesday the 10th of November, police conducted a search in the barber shop located in San Ignacio Town. With the consent of the owner of the establishment, checks were made behind a counter inside the barber shop whi...

Youth cadets receive marching band equipment
ALBA Petrocaribe Belize Energy Limited (APBEL) has made a donation of $8,000 worth of marching band equipment to the band established by the Police Department Youth Cadet Corps in 2013. The handover took place today and we spoke to Officer in Charge of Community Policing for South Division Precinct ...

New Ambulances for Regional clinics
Minister of Health Pablo Marin handed over 6 new ambulances to regional health clinics across the country. The handing over took place this morning at the Ministry of Health Parking Lot in Belmopan and is as a result of the Ministry’s goal to enhance a sustainable and effective health system throug...

Breaking Belize News

Burglar arrested in Orange Walk
On Wednesday November 11th 2015 Ruben Guerra Belizean Businessman of #13 Guadalupe Street reported that on the said date at about 2.30 a.m. while at his house he got a phone call from his security guard who informed him that someone was trying to burglarize his business […]

Illegal immigrants busted for crack and weed in Orange Walk
On the 11th day of November 2015 about 9:30 a.m. Orange Walk Police visited the home of Jose Bonilla located in Guinea Grass Village, Orange Walk District with the intention to execute a search warrant for drugs. Jose Bonilla, a Salvadoran national along with his common law […]

Police Department gets 10 new vehicles
The keys to 10 new police patrol vehicles were handed over to Commissioner of Police Allen Whylie, by Minister of National Security John Saldivar, earlier today in Belmopan. These vehicles, at a total cost of BZ $280,000, were purchased by the Government of Belize through the Ministries of […]

Report says Belize met most of Millennium Development Goals (MDG), poverty still high
With approximately 40-45% of Belizeans living either poor or indigent despite real economic growth, the target to eradicate extreme poverty and hunger as part of the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) created by the United Nations 15 years ago has not been met, as cited in a report obtained […]

Police investigate death of 51-year-old man
Belize City Police is investigating of a 51-year-old man who was charged by police for a brawl he was involved in, shortly before being hospitalized. Arlie Andrew Avilez of Belize City was arrested then charged for “wounding”, appearing in court on October 13th and was hospitalized two days later on […]

San Ignacio resident busted with 215 grams of weed
An 18-year-old male of Vaca Street, San Ignacio Town, was arrested and charged yesterday evening for the offense of “Possession of controlled drugs with the intent to supply”, after he was busted with a substantial amount of cannabis. Police visited Larry’s New Looks Barber Shop on Far West Street in […]

Ministry of Health hands over new ambulances
In an effort to enhance our health system in Belize, the Ministry of Health, headed by Minister Pablo Marin, continues to seek ways in which it can scale up and maintain regional health clinics as well as hospitals to satisfy the growing health demands. As a step towards […]

12 year old boy still missing
Today makes five days since 12 year old Anthony Quim was reported missing. His mother, Xiomara Quim told police that on Saturday around 4:00 a.m., her son left home to an unknown destination and has not been seen or heard from since. Anthony is described as being […]

People’s United Party to hold executive meeting on leadership
Following the People’s United Party’s (PUP) defeat in the November 4th General Elections and its former leader, Francis Fonseca stepping down from that position on November 5th, there has been a media frenzy trying to figure out who are the candidates aspiring to fill that gap in the PUP. It […]

Belize: The Way Forward For the PUP
The People’s United Party (PUP) has lost 8th elections in a row since the general elections of 2008. For the third consecutive term, they will serve as Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition. Their “guided democracy” philosophy is obviously not working too well for them. They will not get different results […]

Blogs

The Toledo People’s Eco-Park Plan
This is a story about a people who are struggling, striving for the opportunity to help themselves; a story about people who are suffering, who have found a solution to their suffering, but are not being given the chance to act on that solution; a story where the reader has the power to affect the outcome, which is not yet written. Today the indigenous people and culture-groups of the Toledo District in Belize, Central America, live in economic poverty, and are needlessly suffering as a result. Infant mortality, child malnourishment, unemployment, crime and illiteracy rates in the south of the country are high, while the rest of the nation races to the forefront of the glamorous highly profitable global tourism industry. Sadly the impoverished communities of the Toledo District are treated as an inconvenient embarrassment by the developing Belizean government, and are viewed as un-marketable by national tourism organizations and related private-sector business associations. The Kek’chi and Mopan Maya, Mesitso, Garifuna, East Indian and other ethnic groups of Toledo find themselves trapped in a vicious cycle of colonialism, dependent upon the meager contributions of local government and foreign aid to survive. Lacking the trappings of modernity to attract to their district the kinds of trade and commerce which preoccupy their nation’s leaders, these communities have no leverage with which to inspire their government to assist them in the areas of environmental, social and economic development. Instead the indigenous populations of southern Belize quietly endure an unspoken discrimination in the form of disregard for their legal democratic voice and abandonment of their solutions to the alleviation of poverty, thus earning this beautiful, wild territory its unfortunate moniker, “the Forgotten District.”

High Season Comes Early to Ambergris Caye, Belize
This past week…I wasn’t sure if it was just me. I saw tourists. Lots of them. More people unloading at Tropic Air, more golf carts filled with visitors and town just felt like it was hopping. But…it’s early November? A time of year that’s just…quiet. Usually super quiet. Could it be true? The streets were busy so… I decided to talk to a few professionals. A golf cart company manager. Two hotels. One of the airlines. One of the tour companies…to see if I was right. Is it busier right now than it usually is in the beginning of November? I spoke with Ultimate Golf Carts – the manager said that they have 20 carts and are busier than they have been in seasons. They are almost fully booked November to February – and totally booked for Christmas through New Years. (And there is certainly more transportation competition on the island). Okay, what about tour companies? I talked to Rebecca, the owner of Seaduced by Belize with her husband. They specialize in snorkeling, sailing and mainland tours. She said that they are busier – and especially for bookings in the beginning of December. A historically slow time as people abroad prepare for the holidays.

Plan your Belize Honeymoon around these 6 Romantic Ideas!
With Belize becoming THE new Romance Destination, we thought we’d compile a handpicked list of activities to do in Belize on your next Romantic Getaway – all that would be missing is you (and your love!). A private beachside moonlit dinner, a sensuous chocolate spa treatment, stargazing from your outdoor hot tub jacuzzi or perhaps an adrenaline pumping adventure will surely up your romance factor. So, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion such as a birthday, a honeymoon, an anniversary, or just looking for the ideal weekend getaway, Belize is definitely the right destination. Here’s why!

The Secret to Scoring the Best-Value Property on Belize’s Paradise Island
A blessed sea breeze keeps you cool…elegant frigate birds glide and cavort above the sea, ready to grab a quick breakfast in the clear waters below them… This is Ambergris Caye—an island less than 40 miles from the mainland of Belize. The best on-beach deals are usually found for resale condominium units in established developments. There are a variety of beach condo complexes that have a track record and reputation, and are well priced when compared to new condo developments. For example, I found a one-bedroom condo at an established beach development going for under $89,900. It’s only one-and-a-half miles south of the town center. Look a half-mile across the bridge and you can find furnished two-bedroom condos. In an established condo complex, I came across one for $280,000. Both are close to the town’s amenities, but removed from the hustle and bustle of the town center. Another option is to look north where major growth is occurring. It used to be an ordeal to navigate the dirt road north during the wet season. But paving of 10 miles of the road north is underway. It should be completed during the next dry season. Once the paving is complete, it will be much easier to reach the more remote northern areas of the island. But real estate prices have not yet adjusted upwards for the few northern condo complexes already there that aren’t as easy to reach. Right now you can buy a new condo or casita on the beach for under $130,000.

From San Pedro to Dangriga, Belize For a Free Veterinary Clinic
Yesterday morning, I woke up early to pack for a short trip to Southern Belize. Short in duration, not in travel time. Just one day to help with a free veterinary clinic that I helped with last year. The clinic where I ended up finding the best dog in the world. ELSIE! Who in one year went from this…neglected, starved almost to death, with tick fever…

Placencia Village in Belize: What is There to Enjoy?
A beautiful peninsula in southern Belize, Placencia Village is home to some of the best beaches and activities in the country. Follow this Placencia Village travel guide to help you experience this place at its best. A gorgeous green peninsula in Southern Belize, Placencia Village has 16 miles of sandy beaches, with the warm Caribbean Sea to the east and the charming Placencia Lagoon on the west. Placencia is divided into two parts, north of the airstrip and south of the airstrip. The whole of the village can easily be covered on one beach cruiser ride. Its busy part is on the south where visits will find a good amount of restaurants, banks, bistros, coffee shops, banks and guest houses. You will also find the taxi and bus station, and the harbor. The northern portion of Placencia, on the other hand, includes the Garifuna Village and is less densely populated. It has so many more expensive Placencia Village hotels. Because of its close proximity from the famous Belize Barrier Reef, it has a real surf. The water is clean and clear, and has trade winds that are gently and cooling. Tourists can find many sights that are calming to the spirit, such as the picturesque Belizean sunset on a deserted peninsula beach in Placencia.

Pook’s Hill All-Inclusive Jungle Lodge in Belize
It was called the bird’s nest; our large bungalow at Pook’s Hill Lodge was elevated about 20 feet off the ground and tucked far away from the rest of the hobbit looking bungalows. It was surrounded by green trees and vines; this was the middle of the jungle. In the light of day it was all rather exotic, and I was well aware that it would get even more exotic as the sun went down as I know from experience that’s when the jungle tends to wake up. I could tell Allie was impressed, she had never stayed or seen such a place before – and neither had I. It’s hard to build natural looking, modern living spaces in the jungle! We got settled in that night and had dinner in the communal dining area which was screened in to protect us from mosquitoes. As Allie put one of everything on her plate to try I smiled and realized this was one area that I knew I would have no issues with Allie – she was adaring eater, just like her sister. I love daring eaters. 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. - See more at: http://www.weblogtheworld.com/countries/central-america/pooks-hill-all-inclusive-jungle-lodge-in-belize/#sthash.6I7lFo42.dpuf

Garifuna Settlement Day: A Quick Look at the Garifuna Culture
November 19th is observed as Garifuna Settlement Day and a national holiday in Belize. The Garifuna people take this particular day, to commemorate the arrival of the Garinagu to Belize and to celebrate their contributions to the development of the country. In the days leading up to the 19th, Dangriga and its surrounding communities prepare for the arrival of locals and international travelers, seeking to imbibe in the typical Garifuna food and drink, dance to the rhythmic beating of the drums and partake in the week long festivities. What’s not to be missed is the “arrival re-enactment,” where everyone gathers to watch this modern day portrayal of the first Garinagu people to the shores of Belize. The Garinagu are descendants of the Carib Indians of St. Vincent and the Nigerian slaves whom were shipwrecked on the island in 1763. They were exiled to Roatan, Honduras by the British in 1796, and migrated to Belize in 1802 after civil unrest in Roatan. Presently, the Garinagu make up 6 percent of Belize’s population and are predominately found in Southern, coastal villages, such as Hopkins and Placencia.

International Sources

Virtual School Trip for student with Belizean Heritage
It's not a local story but a good story. Max Castillo is the son of Alya Rosado, who grew up on Princess Margaret Drive.
Teacher coordinates ‘virtual field trip’ for student with severe allergies: When it comes to allergies and children today, the risks are a true reality for many families that can be a matter of life and death. For third grader Max Castillo, allergies can keep him out of the school. But his teacher is trying to keep him as close to the classroom as possible - even when it may seem impossible. Max has anaphylactic allergies to wheat and dander that have plagued him since birth and a severe gluten sensitivity that attacks when the 8-year-old is even exposed to it. Last year, Max had a 7th birthday he would rather forget. “He ended up being hospitalized for five days and missed his birthday,” said Ted Castillo, Max's father.

The only affordable retirement for most Americans isn’t in America
Christine Schofield, mother of three, disappeared the day after the Bowl-A-Thon: February 13, 2012. She’d co-chaired the annual fundraiser with Holly Riordan at the Brunswick Zone in the Chicago suburb of Woodridge. The Grand Prize at the auction was a wheelbarrow full of wine bottles, which Christine wreathed in flowers. Altogether, the event raised more than $35,000 for We Grow Dreams, a not-for-profit greenhouse providing employment for teenagers with disabilities. Christine had been guilty of dreaming through the internet. She’d harbored a secret addiction for photo-gazing at the sprawling mansions in Latin America—mostly, the expansive kind built by industrialists and profiteers. When Panama and Guatemala and Ecuador out-priced even her fantasies, her dreams turned to Belize. Belize sat as a tiny nation of 350,000 people—roughly the population of Tampa, Florida—nestled on the Yucatán peninsula. “A thumb,” Christine said, laughing, “sticking it to the butt of the world.” As a former British colony, Belize was the only English-speaking nation in Latin America. It became sovereign in 1981, though it still remained part of Queen Elizabeth II’s vast commonwealth.

Videos

World Pediatric Project - Belize City, 3min. I traveled with the World Pediatric Project to Belize City, Belize. My assignment was to document the mission in photo and video. Here is a short clip from the trip.

Honeymoon in Belize, 3.5min. My husband and I honeymooned in Belize in the beginning of March 2015. Every day we were there was a truly unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

My Trip to Belize 2015, 15min.

Evidence of Journey Belize Mission Project 2015, 4.5min. Evidence of Journey showcases their time in Belize as a part of the Belize Mission Project which provides free dental services to the people of Belize. In addition they share the Gospel of Jesus Christ through their music ministry and personal testimonies. Eddie Kilgallon, Dusty Workman and his daughter Peyton Workman have put together a small sample of their time in Belize.