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Specials and Events
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, West Vision (Cayo) and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials
The San Pedro Sun
NDACC highlights effects of tobacco with a variety of activities
On Tuesday, May 30th, National Drug Abuse Control Council (NDACC), joined by Projects Abroad, students, teachers, and community members met at the Central Park to participate in the ‘World No Tobacco Awareness Walk and Poster Competition’. The gathering proudly marched with their handmade posters depicting the dangers of tobacco. The walk proceeded to the roundabout at the San Juan Area, and headed back down through Pescador Drive, culminating at the park.
As part of the celebrations, a poster competition had been held, and on Wednesday, May 31st, Romero announced the winners. In first place, five students from Isla Bonita Elementary School (IBES) won $75 in cash: Marries, Madison, Edwardo, Brigel and Marwa.
Institute of Archeology intervenes on demolition of Maya mound in San Pablo Area
After the partial disturbance of a Maya mound in the San Pablo neighborhood, south of San Pedro Town, the Institute of Archeology (IA) has issued a stop order to halt any further development. The Mayor said that the site is part of San Pedro Town’s cultural heritage, which might even have a connection with Santa Cruz, Marco Gonzalez, or any other archeological site on the island. He is hoping that the Ministry of Natural Resources can exchange the property with the owner, and swap it for another piece of land. The IA is currently in the process of excavating the site to retrieve its Maya remnants and record its data, and the community is grateful that further development has stopped. Brown, along with the Mayor, look forward to having the site put back into its original condition, cleaned up and registered as an archeological site.
Ministry of Defence accused of inappropriate use of resources
The Minister of Defence, Honourable John Saldivar is being monitored following reports of inappropriate use of resources after he was allegedly caught using coast guard vessels to shuttle his basketball team (Belmopan Bandits) to and from Ambergris Caye for various sporting activities. The issue also received reaction from the Embassy of the United States, since the vessels were donated by the American Government. In view of such accusations, the Ministry of Defence issued a press release on Tuesday, May 30th, justifying the use of the vessels.
Reports of the inappropriate use of the coast guard vessels came to light on May 25th, when the U.S Embassy acknowledged the reports.
San Pedro Lions celebrate 39th Annual Convention
From Friday, May 26th through Sunday, May 28th, Lions and Leos of the Lions Zone 59 attended the 39th annual National Convention in San Estevan, Orange Walk. After three days of activities, the San Pedro Lions returned home with a total of five awards.
President Nigel Belisle told The San Pedro Sun that on Friday night, the San Pedro Lions presented a demonstration of the San Pedro Lions Club’s many services and accomplishments. From bingo night, BBQ sales, various fundraisers, eye screening programs, Mosquito Coast Park, to the recently launched eye clinic, the Club has been tirelessly active within the community.
Ambergris Today
Belize Met Service Launches New Website - Hurricane Season Starts Today
We know that Belizeans are more looking forward to Lobster Season than the Hurricane Season this year, but we cannot ignore the fact that the hurricane weather phenomenon is inevitable and we have to make preparations every year to stay safe. Last year Hurricane Earl was a major blow to Belize, particularly major damage to almost all over-the-water structures on Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. An above-normal Atlantic hurricane season is most likely this year, but that does not mean that Belize will get struck by a hurricane. It just means that we must all be prepared.
World No Tobacco Day Awareness Walk And Poster Competition
As part of World No Tobacco Day, the National Drug Abuse Control Council (NDACC) hosted a poster competition and arranged a No Tobacco walk on Tuesday May 30, 2017 starting from the Central Park.
Winners of the Poster competitions are as follows:
First Place: Marries, Madison, Edwardo, Brige and Marwa from the Isla Bonita Elementary School,
Prize: $75.00 Cash.
Second Place: Caroline Sersland and Anna Garcia from Isla Bonita Elementary School,
Prize: $50.00 Gift Certificate from Sand Bar.
Misc Belizean Sources
Placencia Breeze June 2017
What’s Inside Pg 3 Recycling at Lobsterfest Pg 5 Tour Guide Training / Lobsterfest Vendors Form Pg 7 From the Fire Hearth - Lobster and Mangos / Lobsterfest Duck Race Pg 9 Seine Bight News Pg 10 Lobsterfest Raffle Prizes Pg 11 Croc Corner / POV Pg 15 & 18 Placencia BTIA Members Pg 16 & 17 Placencia Peninsula Map Pg 19 Beach Cleanup / Placencia Lobsterfest Art Winner Pg 20/21 Placencia Peninsula Guide Pg 22 PHS News Pg 23 Pop-up Placencia Pooch Parlour! Pg 24 Rotary News / 11th Battle Cancer Walk/Run Pg 25 Chocolate Festival Pictures Pg 26 Community Corner Pg 27 Fitness Page Pg 28 Cruise Ship Passengers arriving in Placencia Pg 29 Placencia Regatta Winners Pg 30 Placencia Peninsula Happenings Pg 31 Calender of Events
Succotz Culture Fair 2017
Save the date!! The 3rd Annual San Jose Succotz Archaeology and Culture Fair is coming up in exactly 1 month! Look out for more details!
A Tropical Night Out
A Tropical Night Out - A Rotary Club of Belmopan's Fundraising Event!
June 10th, 2017 at Civic Center, Belmopan City.
Come and enjoy a fun night out in Belmopan with the #1 Band in the land, Gilharry 7 Band!!!
Starts 7:00 p.m.
Tickets are $25 and includes a Belize Duck Race Ticket! How awesome is that!?!
Food and Drinks will be on sale!
Call 607-3884 for tickets!
Today in Belize's history in the year 1797
fourteen men from the Belize River Valley paddled into Belize Town to cast their vote in favor of staying to defend The Belize Settlement against an impending attack by Spanish troops. Of these 14 men, 11 had never previously attended any Public Meetings in the settlement. When the vote was taken 51 voted in favor of evacuation, while 65 voted in favor of defense. The votes of these 14 men made the difference . We are here because they were here!!!
Beyond the Horizon: 2017-Belize
16,834! That's how many patients were seen at the amazing Beyond the Horizon: 2017-Belize free medical clinics across Belize! Thank you and BRAVO!
San Pedro Traffic Department Bicycle Safety Poster contest
Primary School Students, create a poster for Bicycle Safety, hand your poster into the San Pedro Traffic dept for a chance to win a NEW Bicycle, (donated by SP hardware). Use your artistic skills to promote Bicycle safety. Closing date Friday 23rd June 2017. Good luck.
MUSEUM MAY REVIEW:
The PANAMA Photographic Exhibit Launch 2017 (May 18th, 2017-Evening)
The Museum of Belize (NICH) in collaboration with the Embassy of Panama was proud to launch 'PANAMÁ: COSTUMBRES Y TRADICIONES', as a part of our International Museum Day celebration.
This photographic exhibit highlights contrast between the Belizean and Panamanian culture not to mention varying connections between both countries' culture and practices.
'PANAMÁ: COSTUMBRES Y TRADICIONES' is now opened to the viewing public until July 18th, 2017!
Bark and no Bight
I hope you are all entertained
Hope the anxiety, eases you pain
The PUDP Select Committee is in vain
Belize is playing PUDP’s game
This inquiry is to keep the Opposition tame
It’s all a blasted game
No one will be fined
Non one we be confined
All they are doing is marking time
To distract you from re registration time
PANCAP REGIONAL PARLIAMENTARIANS FORUM CONCLUDES WITH CALL FOR NON-PARTISAN APPROACH TO ISSUES RELATED TO STIGMA, DISCRIMINATION AND HIV TRANSMISSION
Deputy Secretary General, CARICOM Secretariat, challenges parliamentarians to implement CARICOM Model Anti-Discrimination Bill
Regional parliamentarians, civil society leaders and UN partners at the PANCAP Regional Parliamentarians Forum, Wednesday May 31, 2017
Wednesday, May 31, 2017 (PANCAP Coordinating Unit, CARICOM Secretariat): The Pan Caribbean Partnership against HIV and AIDS (PANCAP) Regional Parliamentarians Forum, 30 - 31 May, Kingston, Jamaica, concluded with recommendations from parliamentarians on a non-partisan approach to issues related to stigma, discrimination and HIV transmission.
Rainy Season Opens, Public Urged to Take Precautions to Prevent Dengue and Zika
The Ministry of Health reminds the public to be aware of the dangers of Dengue and Zika as we enter the rainy season. These infectious diseases are transmitted by the bite of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. Both mosquitoes are most active in early morning and late afternoon.
Activities that should be done to prevent Dengue and Zika include:
- Avoid having containers that can collect water in your yard, especially tires;
- Cover water storage containers such as drums; and
- Change the water in flower pots every 4 or 5 days.
Theme for the September Celebrations
The National Celebrations Commission makes calls for submission of theme for the September Celebrations and submissions for the Song Competition.
"Festival of Arts: A Historical Perspective"
Join us today at The Bliss Center...as UWI & The National Festival of Arts present the 2nd Annual Vernon Leslie Memorial Lecture - "Festival of Arts: A Historical Perspective".
Library Tour of St. Francis Xavier Primary School!
Visitors were the infants! They were well behaved and made the Library shine with their happy faces!
Corozal Rotary Club 2017 Raffle
Good evening everyone....we wanted to let everyone know we will be outside Carlos Orio' computer store "Office Solutions", 4th Avenue on Friday morning 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon to sell Raffle Tickets for the HOT Motorcycle. We will have the bike there at Carlos' Friday to see. We will be awarding at Art in the Park July 15th.
Come down and get your chance before the tickets are sold out!!!
Men @ Work Art Exhibit
You are kindly invited to the launch of Men @ Work Art Exhibit showcasing creations by ten Corozal cultural artists of various genres including paintings, jewelry, carvings, furniture and more. Please join us at 7pm this Friday June 2 for a night of artistic appreciation.
Succotz Culture Fair 2017
The 2017 Succotz Archaeology and Culture Fair is on June 25th. They'll have food, fun, and a Maya ball game.
"Save the date!! The 3rd Annual San Jose Succotz Archaeology and Culture Fair is coming up in exactly 1 month! Look out for more details!"
Morena Son arrives today for Belize International Jazz Festival
They perform Saturday at the Mexican Institute & Sunday at the Opening Concert at Memorial Park
Placencia Municipal Pier Inauguration
Photographs
Stann Creek ITVET Grant
The U.S. Embassy in Belize is proud to support the Stann Creek ITVET as it implements a three-year grant aimed at creating economic opportunities for at-risk youth through the provision of skills and trade. We accomplish this through a series of educational programs: Information Technology, basket weaving, jewelry making, wood carving, cosmetology and baking. To date, the program has benefited more than 200 students. Some of the participants have gone on to open their own business or are gainfully employed. This funding is made available via the Central America Regional Security Initiative Economic Support Fund (CARSI ESF) in order to provide youth and marginalized communities with productive alternative activities that increase education and leadership opportunities. The goal is to reduce incidents of crime and violence by providing these types of opportunities to at-risk youth. Since 2013, the U.S. Embassy has provided nearly US $7.5 million in CARSI ESF grants to several NGOs working towards improving opportunities for Belizean youth.
Paradise Theater playing this weekend
The LEGO Batman Movie, A Cure for Wellness , Life, Colossal
Channel 7
PM Finds Silver Lining In Castro Visa Cancellation
Since UDP Minister Edmond Castro's two US visas were cancelled earlier this week - most informed observers have concluded that the US State Department is sending the Barrow Cabinet a stern and strong message. But the Barrow administration has been busy looking for a silver lining in this dark cloud which has cast a long shadow over the Cabinet room - where other ministers who signed an immigration recommendation or two, might well be concerned that Uncle Sam is watching them too.
Today, we got a chance to speak with the Prime Minister about it at another event. He gave the most charitable interpretation possible to the cancellation. Here's how he put it:...
Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister:
"I am to some degree, perplexed, because I only know what I have heard from Minister Castro and what I have seen in a letter that he shared with me from the US Embassy meaning that there is no indication of any reason for the revocation of the visas except that the minister declined to come in when invited to do so to discuss the whole issue of renewal of the visas since those visas were about to expire."
Opposition Leader Briceno Says Fire Castro
So, while that's the Prime Minister's position on the cancellation of Castro's visas by the US, Opposition Leader John Briceno says that the Prime Minister should fire Edmond Castro from his Cabinet.
Briceno was on a roll yesterday, taking questions on a number of controversies facing the Barrow Government right now. When the press asked him about Castro, he didn't skip a beat while reminding how the PUP handled it when Max Samuels faced the same issue:
Hon. John Briceno, Leader of the Opposition:
"I think it's shameful and disgraceful that we have now a sitting minister who the US government has decided to canceled his visa and we need to ask the question why. Why would the United States government canceled a sitting minister's visa? Not only his tourist visa, but even his diplomatic visa."
Boots Bothered By Cancellation of Diplomatic Visa
But, as Briceno correctly pointed out, revoking a diplomatic Visa is quite severe. And, for once, his UDP opponent Boots Martinez agrees with him. Yesterday he told us that it does bother him that Castro, his Cabinet colleague was stripped in that fashion:
Hon. Anthony Martinez:
"The reasons would bother me. Like why would you want to revoke a diplomatic visa? I could understand the ordinary visa, but a diplomatic visa to me is a slap in the face. That is just my view."
PM Says Saldivar Won't Do It Again
And while the Prime Minister has argued - perhaps not so convincingly - that Castro's Visa might have just come to a natural end - he cannot say the same for John Saldivar's use of a Coast Guard vessel for his basketball team. Let's just say, it's almost an international incident - because we are told the US has made its displeasure known at the official level, and in the press. Today the Prime Minister said it's an exercise of poor judgement but not the end of the world:...
Jules Vasquez, 7News:
"We heard the Americans, the US Embassy officials have made some level of official complaint, made their displeasure known, and they've made it known as well to the press in a statement to the reporter."
Boots Wouldn't Have Done It Either
And just like the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister, Saldivar's Cabinet colleague Boots Martinez said he wouldn't have done what Saldivar did, but that doesn't make it wrong:...
Jules Vasquez, 7News:
"How do you view this sort of thing being a former team owner yourself?"
Hon. Anthony Martinez:
"Put it this way, for me I think it would be difficult for me to do that. But apart from that I see no problem really. There is a social component in life you know. In my view as I understand it, Mr. Borland said that Minister Saldivar provided the gasoline for the boat and he see no problem with it. There is a social component, it's not just criminal you should chase all about the world, there is in my view a social component. I would have find it difficult to do it, but it is a social component."
Opposition Leader says Misuse of Coast Guard Vessels Very Bad For Barrow Admin.
But, while the Prime Minister says that there will not be a repeat of the use of the Coast Guard boats as a sports ferry, the Opposition Leader says that this should not have happened in the first place.
By his interpretation, this is just another fatal strike against the Barrow Government:
Hon. John Briceno, Leader of the Opposition:
"Here we have now no other than the minister of defense using these boats that have been donated for a specific purpose, for our security and for the fight against drugs and the Minister of Defense is using those vessels for his own personal use, for his basketball or football team or whatever team that he has. It is wrong and what he is doing, he is putting this country at risk, because the donors I am told are very upset and they donors could very well decide that you know what, if this is what you are going to do, if this is the abuse you're going to have, we are going to stop assisting our country."
PM Says Yellowman Was Wrong, But Not Wrong Enough to Be Fired
And then to that other subject that's been getting so much bad press for his administration. We're referring to the incident where Brian "Yellowman" Audinett threatened and assaulted the media.
Barrow has been silent on it both as Party Leader and Prime Minister - but today he made it clear that the Mase-bearer's actions were inexcusable.
Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister:
"I think that Yellowman's behavior is absolutely regrettable. What the chairman of the party wished to do, attempted to do: shine a light on Eamon Courtenay and the PUP and their hypocrisy and political dishonesty was well done. But Yellowman's behavior in terms of the media cannot be countenanced and so I certainly deplore it, out of hand. Again, though, as I understand he sent a letter of apology to the speaker - I think it would be good if he also sent a letter of apology to the media, in particular to you, madam."
PUP Keeps Up Pressure On Yellowman
So, despite the Prime Minister's insistence that he does not support Yellowman's removal from the position of Sergeant at Arms of the National Assembly, the Opposition is not backing down. Yesterday, John Briceno said that both the Sergeant at Arms and Party Chairman Alberto August acted disgracefully, and that should not be overlooked.
Brother Barrow Sworn In As CCJ Judge
Denys Barrow is one of the most well-known and well-respected attorneys in the country and the region. The younger brother of Prime Minister Dean Barrow, has been at the top of the legal profession for more than two decades. Barrow has also been a judge on the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and the Belize Court of Appeal, and now he is taking his years of experience and knowledge to the highest ranking court in the region. Barrow was officially elevated to the Caribbean Court of Justice as a Judge this morning, becoming one of seven judges on the court, and the first Belizean to hold the position. It's a great honor and today he was showered with honors and tributes from the legal community. The day started with his official elevation and swearing in overseen by the head of State, Governor General Sir Colville Young, and the President of the CCJ, Sir Dennis Byron.
PM Shares in Brother's Bench Big-Up
The Prime Minister also attended today's swearing in, both as proud big brother and the Head of Government. PM Barrow said it is a great honour, but he doesn't grudge his brother:
Jules Vasquez, 7News:
"How do you feel fraternally?"
Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister:
"Well it's a great day for him and clearly a great day for the family of which I am a part and a great day for Belize. So congratulations all around."
Who Will Replace Denys Barrow As Government Attorney?
But, Denys Barrow's departure means that Government is in immediate need of an accomplished Senior Counsel to take on the mountain of litigation it has to contend with - mostly from the Ashcroft Alliance. The PM says they will have to look to the wider region to find the right fit:..
Jules Vasquez, 7News:
"As he leaves, from a tactical perspective, the government loses its best and most expensive attorney. How does this affect you going forward knowing that there are many battles still to be fought?"
Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister:
"It is a huge void to fill, but naturally we will manage. There is going to be a combination I think of local representation together with one or two lawyers drawn from the wider Caribbean."
Ashcroft Alliance Expected To Appear With Whopping Legal Bill
And one case the government will definitely need some very senior counsels for is the pending matter of the settlement costs with the Ashcroft Alliance. In September 2015, Barrow met with Ashcroft and agreed to settle the BTL acquisition case - but it came at a dear cost - almost half a billion dollars. But, now, that could go up by many millions more, because he also agreed to pay Ashcroft's legal costs. The bill for that is reportedly being submitted this week - and it's huge. Barrow told us he will fight it:...
Jules Vasquez, 7News
"What is the quantum of that? We're told it is in the many scores of millions of dollars?"
Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister:
"Well so I've heard. No question at all, but that we will challenge the quantum. You're right the settlement agreement does provide for the Ashcroft Alliance to recoup its expenses."
Ready Call Going Through Changes, 100+ Jobless
Tomorrow the Ready Call Center celebrates it's 12th anniversary in Belize. While there may be a cocktail or even a party for the staff and employees, something even more significant will be happening: the operations up at their Burrell Boom office will be shut down. It's bitter sweet because some workers will be accommodated at Ready Call's shiny ICON building in the City, while others - as many as 100 - will have to say their good byes and move on, at least for now. Courtney Weatherburne has more details.
Anita Garbutt, Employee:
"I'm from Orange Walk and normally to get here I have to wake up about around 6:00 in the morning, wake up do what I need to do, go out get the bus by 7, get here for my shift which is at 9:00."
Man Arrested For Stealing Hilux From His Employer
He was accused of stealing a HILUX from his own employer, and now Kareem Harvey has been charged with Aggravated Burglary.
Police caught the 23 year old resident of Poison Wood Street in Belmopan in the vehicle on Saturday after his boss, the female Manager of the Pesticide Control Board in Central Farm reported to police that he held her up at gunpoint and put a plastic bag over her face. He snatched her purse with 4000 Euros and sped off in the Hilux and sped off with his loot. Harvey had been working with the Ministry of Agriculture for a year.
Alvarine Makes Allegations Against Another
We've already shown you huge chunks of yesterday's Senate Hearings on Immigration where Alvarine Burgess took the stand and alleged that she did immigration business with UDP Ministers Edmond Castro, Boots Martinez and Erwin Contreras. All three ministers have denied her claims.
She also named Police Officer Rochelle Chan as the supposed mastermind, who recruited her, and he told us she's lying. But there was one other person she accused in her testimony from yesterday. He is immigration officer George Reynolds.
Alvarine And Aldo Rounds 1 Thru 15
So, we've given you a summary of most of the important parts of the testimony that Alvarine Burgess gave to the Senate Select Committee.
But, as she was giving her narrative of the way the visa business worked at the Immigration Department, there were a number of instances that she and Chairman Aldo Salazar clashed on the details. As viewers are aware, he was very resistant to her appearing in the first place, and so, he was definitely her toughest cross-examiner. That led to numerous sparring matches between the two, and we've put together a few of them for you to decide if her story withstood his scrutiny:
Former Ambassador Nisbet's Testimony
Burgess was the second witness for the day; the first was Cherie Nisbet, the Former Belize Ambassador to Taiwan. She basically broke the whole story when she sent and email to her bosses at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in which she alerted them that Former Deputy Mayor Eric Chang attempted to visit Won Hong Kim, who was in a Taiwanese detention center.
In that email, she told her bosses that Chang called her "in a panic" asking her to urgently issue a visa to 2 South Korean nationals who "NEED" to go to Belize. She said that she inquired about the emergency, because she needed to be satisfied of the specifics to justify issuing the emergency visas. She said that Chang told her that he would have to call a "minister" in Belize to issue the visas upon arrival.
PM Says Hearing Should Continue
The hearings continue next week when Immigration Minister Godwin Hulse is expected to testify. But, how long will they continue after that? We've heard UDP politicians pushing for it to come to close. Just yesterday the Deputy Prime Minister said it has served its useful purpose and is now turning into a political witch hunt more than it is a legitimate inquiry. Surprisingly today the Prime Minister said he doesn't agree. He thinks it should continue, for a time:..
What Will Be Security Procedures Going Forward
But what will be the security provisions going forward? And who will be allowed to watch the hearings? Yesterday, the UDP Chairman Alberto August and his group called "Belizeans Against Courtenay" dominated the gallery while grassroots activists Geovannie Brackett and Raymond Rivers were denied entrance.
Briceno - who was in there with a few PUP supporters and area reps - said that this was unequal treatment:
Getting NEMO On Page
Today marks the official start of the hurricane season, so NEMO and other emergency management agencies gathered at in Belmopan for a "state of readiness" review. The agencies assessed their current state of preparedness for any major natural disaster, and and strategies for response. the National Disaster Coordinator at NEMO, Col. Shelton DeFour spoke to the media today about the review...
Natural disaster response organizations throughout the country will be on high alert until November 30.
And while hurricanes are a visceral threat, don't forget about regular rainy weather. June first is the start of the rainy season and the Ministry of Health reminds the public to be aware of the dangers of Dengue and Zika - which are spread by mosquitoes. They remind the public to discard containers that can collect water in the yard, especially tires, to Cover water storage containers such as drums because these are ideal breeding sites for mosquitoes.
Channel 5
C.C.J. Welcomes Newest Judge Denys Barrow
The big day arrived for Senior Counsel Denys Barrow, who this morning became the seventh and final member of the Caribbean Court of Justice and will shortly be off to [...]
P.M. Says No Impropriety Behind Revoked Visa
Prime Minister Dean Barrow broke his silence today in respect of a raft of issues plaguing his administration. First, there is the embarrassing cancellation of Edmond Castro’s diplomatic and tourist [...]
P.M. Distinguishes Castro Circumstances from Max Samuels
In her testimony before the Senate Special Select Committee on Wednesday, whistleblower Alvarene Burgess attested that the U.S. Embassy is in possession of an audio recording in which Castro can [...]
Who Will Replace Denys in Fight Over B.T.L. Settlement?
Judge Barrow’s departure to the seat of the CCJ leaves behind a vacuum, as not only was the venerable attorney government’s chief legal counsel; he is also recognized as its [...]
Expenses for B.T.L. Settlement Will Go to the C.C.J.
As the PM has openly stated, litigation over the remaining B.T.L. bill will certainly be taken up at the CCJ level, notwithstanding the presumed total that’s left to be paid. [...]
P.M. Puts Confidence in Coast Guard in Wake of Saldivar Scandal
Is the owner of the Belmopan Bandits, Minister of Defense John Saldivar, justified in using coast guard vessels to ferry members of his basketball club to San Pedro on game [...]
Barrow Declares It Will Not Happen Again
The use of the boats, says the prime minister, isn’t a decision that he would have taken; however, he says that Saldivar will not be using those vessels for future [...]
Newborn’s Parents Detained after Callous Disposal in River
Police investigations continue in the south following an act of infanticide. Police say that after twenty-nine-year-old Santos Cac Asig gave birth to a baby boy on Sunday, she threw the [...]
P.M. Says Spare “Yellow Man”
The conduct of Yellow Man during the May seventeenth meeting of the Senate Special Select Committee has been widely condemned, following verbal threats he made to members of the media [...]
“Yellow Man” Responsible, Says Finnegan, But Should Not Be Dismissed
Because of his unbecoming behavior, there are loud calls for Yellow Man’s removal since as mace bearer he should be upholding the dignity of the House. Senior Minister Michael Finnegan [...]
Faber Says “Yellow Man” Will Also Be Discussed by U.D.P.
Yellow Man will get his day before the National Assembly Staff Committee. They will decide what course of action, if any, will be taken following the Mace-bearer’s behavior at the [...]
How Alvarene Burges Was Introduced to Rochelle Chan
Wednesday’s public hearings of the Senate Special Select Committee were dominated by a woman whose name never appeared in the Auditor General’s Special Report on Immigration 2011-2013. But Alvarene Burgess [...]
Burgess Worked with Boots, Did Not Pay Contreras
While Edmond Castro was Alvarene Burgess’ main contact, on a few occasions, she had to go elsewhere to get recommendations when he was out of the country. Once, she turned [...]
Recommendation Rubberstamp: Alvarene Says the Hustle Continues
Burgess testified that, to her knowledge, no visa for which she obtained a minister’s recommendation was rejected. This buttressed previous testimony that Immigration staff considered a minister’s intervention tantamount to [...]
P.U.P. Throw Support Behind Alvarine Burgess
Reaction to the testimony of Alvarene Burgess has been sharply divided along political lines. The Government’s supporters believe she has no basis for her claims; the Opposition has largely cheered [...]
Senate Inquiry Not Done Yet, But Costs Keep Piling Up
Chairman of the Senate Special Select Committee, Aldo Salazar says there are only few witnesses left to testify before the committee and his recommendation is for an early end to [...]
P.U.P. to Call Out Gaspar Vega at Next House Meeting
Orange Walk North area representative and former Deputy Prime Minister Gaspar Vega has not attended a single meeting of the House of Representatives since October last, after resigning from Cabinet. [...]
On 12th Anniversary, Ready Call Center Will Cut Jobs
One of the biggest private sector employers is trimming down the size of its work force. And the jobs of at least two hundred and thirty employees are on the [...]
D.P.M. Speaks of Closer Ties with Cuba
Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Faber, along with Ministers Manuel Heredia Junior, and Minister Angel Campos concluded an official visit to the Republic of Cuba on Monday. The delegation met with Cuba’s [...]
Man Charged for Stolen Agriculture Hilux; Cops Honored
Twenty-three-year-old Kareem Harvey, a resident of Poison Wood Street in Belmopan, has been charged with Aggravated Burglary in reference to a 2016 government-owned Toyota Hilux, stolen from an employee of [...]
Further Violence Reported at Old Border Crossing
There has been further violence at the old border crossing at Subteniente Lopez, Chetumal. According to a report on POR ESTO, contrabandistas resorted to extreme violence at midday on Wednesday to [...]
Frank Lizama’s Name Tied to Skills Training Center in Collet
For the past five years, we have shared with you many stories of the Skills Training Center in the Collet Division since it opened its doors. But on Wednesday, the [...]
Healthy Living: Milk Still Does a Body Good
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations celebrated the first World Milk Day in 2001. It was meant to be a day to remind people across the world [...]
CTV3
PM Barrow Speaks On Castro's Visas Revocation
The news that UDP Minister Edmond Castro’s U.S. tourist and diplomatic visas were revoked by the United States Embassy has resulted in political embarrassment for the Barrow Administration. Yesterday Opposition Leader Hon. John Briceno called on Prime Minister Dean Barrow to get rid of Castro, but today when Barrow addressed the matter, he went to bat once again for his embattled Cabinet colleague.
What Is The Future OF Yellowman
But while Castro escaped public chastisement, Macebearer Brian “Yellowman” Audinette was not so lucky. You would recall that Yellowman and UDP Chairman Alberto August led disruptions of the Senate hearing two weeks ago. Yellowman even turned on members of the media and assaulted three, including Krem News’ Director Marisol Amaya. Prime Minister Barrow had not commented on the issue until today when he made himself available to interviews. He said while he supports August’s campaign, he decries Yellowman’s actions.
PM Measures Words When Speaking On Saldivar's Use Of US Vessels
The Prime Minister was on damage control mode today, responding to a number of controversies that have surfaced over the past weeks. Another is the admitted report that coast guard vessels were used to ferry members of sports teams privately owned by the Minister of Defense, John Saldivar. There are reports that the donors of the vessels are not happy with the situation, but Prime Minister Barrow was measured in his criticism claiming that while the Minister has ensured that it will not happen again, his intentions were good natured.
Domestic Exports Up By 2.2 Percent For April 2017
Yesterday we brought to you the latest figures as it pertains to the country’s consumer price index and total imports for the month of April 2017. While the price of goods saw an overall increase of 2.2 percent compared to April of last year, imports decreased. But the same cannot be said about our country’s total domestic exports for April 2017 which grew by 3 percent or $1 million amounting to a total of $35.7 million in comparison to April 2016.
LOVE FM
Ambassador Nisbet Recounts Eric Chang’s Desperation for Belizean Visa
Before Alvarine Burgess gave an attention grabbing testimony, the former Belize Ambassador to Taiwan, Cherie Nisbet appeared before the committee. At the time when former UDP Belize City Deputy Mayor, Eric Chang, attempted to visit South Korean Wong Hong Kim, she was contacted by Chang who was urgently requesting a visa for two South Korean […]
Onlookers Warned Not to Disrupt Senate Proceedings
Before the commencement of today’s Senate Hearing, the Chairman of the Committee, Senator Aldo Salazar gave a stern warning to members of the gallery. Senator Salazar warned that he would clear the entire gallery if the hearing was interrupted or disrupted by anyone in anyway. More police officers were present for today’s hearing. The chairman […]
Statistical Institute Says Sugar is Belize’s Top Export Earner
Consumer prices rose on average by two point two percent during April as compared to the same period last year. The latest figures from the Statistical Institute of Belize show that for the first four months of 2017, a year-to-date inflation rate of one point nine percent was recorded. The rise in airfare prices is […]
Castro Has No Interest in the United States
Late yesterday evening Minister Edmond Castro issued a statement on the US Embassy’s cancellation of both his tourist and diplomatic visas. According to the Government Minister, no reason was given to him for the decision but they did extend an invite for him to go into the Embassy to seek another approval. In his statement, […]
Briceno Wants Castro Fired From Cabinet
While Minister Edmund Castro has expressed no interest in learning why the US Government revoked his tourist and diplomatic visa, the Leader of the Opposition is very interested in knowing the reason. John Briceno told the media this afternoon that the Prime Minister needs to fire Minister Castro. JOHN BRICENO “I think it’s shameful and […]
LOO Says Defence Minister Put Belize At Risk for the Bandits
The Leader of the Opposition, John Briceno, then shifted his attention to Minister John Saldivar. Saldivar has come under heavy criticism surrounding the use of the Belize Coast Guard vessels to transport Bandit basketball players to San Pedro for a game. In an interview yesterday, Commander of the Belize Coast Guard, Admiral John Borland, explained […]
Mother of Murder Victim Outraged at DPP’s Decision
The mother of 31-year-old, Glen Ramirez Junior has expressed outrage at the decision of the Director of Public Prosecutions surrounding her son’s killing. Agnes Ramirez told Love News that there was more to the entire situation and that a proper investigation was not conducted by the authorities. To add to that, she is of the […]
2017 Hurricane Season Will Be Above Normal
In a few hours, the hurricane season for the Atlantic Basin will officially open with a prediction of an above normal season. The Chief Meteorologist, Catherine Cumberbatch along with her deputy, Derrick Rudon hosted the media at a press brief today to speak about what can be expected. CATHERINE CUMBERBATCH “The forecast has been released […]
CEMO – Ready to Be Activated
The City Emergency Management Organization today held a press briefing to present the city’s preparedness for the hurricane season and other emergencies. Councilor responsible for Emergency Management in the City Phillip Willoughby says they have been working throughout the year and are well prepared to handle emergencies. PHILIP WILLOUGHBY “Our partnering agencies and stakeholders within […]
Belize Port Authority, Coast Guard’s New Neighbour
A three storey concrete structure was inaugurated this morning just next to the Belize Coast Guard off the George Price Highway. That edifice which was constructed at a cost of about one point seven million dollars is now housing the offices for the Belize Port Authority. On hand to declare the facility open was Minister […]
PlusTV
Edmond Castro’s Visas revoked
US Visas of the the Minister of Transport and NEMO, Edmond Castro, were revoked. A press release from his office was issued yesterday saying that “Castro has been given notification by the United States Embassy that his Diplomatic and Tourist visas have been revoked, and that no specific reason was...
Castro not worried about revoked VISA
As we said, Castro says in his press release issued yesterday that he once held a US Permanent Residency or Green Card, which he turned in eight years ago in 2009 and that is when he was issued both visas (Diplomatic and Tourist). Today, the media caught up with Castro and asked him about the visa i...
Man found dead, hanging at his workplace in Belmopan
The staff at the Ministry of works arrived at work this morning to a shocking discovery. One of their colleagues was found dead, hanging by the neck at the compound in Belmopan. The deceased has been identified as Michael Kerr, a mechanic of the Ministry of Works. No foul play is suspected but poli...
Florencio Pop gets his sentence reduced from 15 years to 8 years
Yesterday, Florencio Pop was successful in getting his 15 years sentence reduced to 8 years. Pop, along with his attorney, Oscar Selgado, appeared before Justice Dennis Hanomansingh who handed down his previous sentence 5 years ago. When Pop appeared before Justice Hanomansingh, under the advice of ...
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