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The news will be a bit brief for the next week or so due to time constraints


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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

Islanders demand justice for Faye Lin Cannon
The tragic death of 13-year-old Faye Lin Cannon has brought together an island community in collective mourning. The young American girl had been living on the island for several years, and suffered a death that many deem preventable. Physically and sexually assaulted, her death was officially ruled as caused by internal hemorrhaging due to a punctured heart. She had three broken ribs. Believed to have committed these heinous crimes against Faye is her adoptive mother Anke Doehm, and stepfather David Boehm. Both are yet to be charged, but they remain in San Pedro Police custody.

Opening of the Lobster Fishing Season
The Belize Fisheries Department would like to advise the public that in accordance with the Fisheries Act (Chapter 210s, revised 2003), the open season for the Spiny Lobster Fishery is from June 15rg to February 14th, inclusive in any year. The public is advised of the following regulations which relates to the Spiny Lobster (Crawfish) in Belize: 1. No person shall take in the waters of Belize or buy, sell or have in his possession crawfish - a. If the cape length is less than three or tail weight is less than four ounces: b. Between the 15th February and the 14th June, inclusive in any year: c. That is berried, has eggs or spawn:

September Celebrations Theme Announced!
The National Celebrations Commission is pleased to announce the winner and theme for the upcoming September Celebrations. After careful deliberation by the Commission, the submission made by Ms. Janine Sosa was selected. The theme focusses on our unified Belizean people, cultures and country. This year's theme calls on us to recognize the often difficult decisions that must be made to ensure our nation's progress. It acknowledges the moment in which we take pleasure in the victories of our past and present, and uses these accomplishments to strengthen our advancement into the future.

House of Representatives proposes Stamp Duty Transfer Tax increase
At the sitting of the House of Representatives on Friday, June 30th in Belmopan City, a bill was read and entered to raise the stamp duty transfer tax, from 5% to 8%, on all foreign -purchased properties in Belize. The current rate of stamp duty on Belizeans and foreigners alike is 5%, with the first $20,000 exempted. This new proposal from Central Government has Ambergris Caye Real Estate agents concerned, as they see the proposed raise as a threat to their business.

MURDER
Another suspected murder is being reported in San Pedro Town. The victim has been identified as 56-year-old Plutarco Noralez, Belizean labourer and resident of San Pedrito Area. According to the police report, on Wednesday, July 5th, about 9:00 am San Pedro Police responded to a report at the Dr Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II, where they saw a male person lying motionless on a bed. Initial investigation revealed was that about 7:55AM Noralez arrived at the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II, and complained of severe chest pain. Noralez was escorted to the Emergency room area where he was attended. Shortly after, about 8:50AM, he passed away. On Thursday July 6th, a Post Mortem Examination was conducted on his body and the cause of death was "Traumatic Asphyxiation due to severe oedema of Epiglotis due to neck and chest compression due to blunt force trauma".

Ambergris Today

No Charges Yet For Faye's Parents Who Remain In Police Custody
As the day ends with residents all angry, frustrated and and feeling hopeless and partly responsible for the death of 13-year-old Fay Lin Cannon, the Criminal Investigation Branch of San Pedro Police Department continues their investigations. Prime suspects in the murder case, David and Anke Doehm, have not been charged with murder or conspiracy of murder. The Doehms remain in San Pedro Police custody tonight as the Magistrate explained that the 48-hour investigation period won't expire until Saturday, July 8. If the Doehms are found guilty of Faye's death, San Pedro Police will have the right to keep them in custody over the weekend until they can reappear in court on Monday, July 10. At a closed-court family matter case held today with Anke Doehm, the hearing resulted in San Pedro Town Magistrate Janel Villanueva granting full custody of Cannon siblings to the Department of Human Services.

Misc Belizean Sources

mzz

The Government of Belize Reaches Important Cornerstone in Border Management
The UN Migration Agency (IOM) reports that an important upgrade to Belize's Border management system is complete. Particularly, this initiative strengthened the capacity of Belize's Department of Immigration and Nationality Services (DINS) and its staff to manage the border more efficiently through an upgrade of the recently installed PIRS/MIDAS computerized border information management system. The MIDAS system has been designed by OIM to be compliant with international standards and is currently operational in 19 countries. It also enables the production of real-time reporting over the 1.5 million border transactions per year in Belize. MIDAS automatically checks all recorded entry and exit data in the border posts, allows the collection of biometric data and more accurate capture of information. "With this Belize can count on a better risk assessment of those travelling and more targeted interventions at the front line and faster clearance of passengers" said Mr. Jason CLARKE, IOM's Senior Specialist in Border and Identity Solutions.

Opening of the Lobster Fishing Season
The Belize Fisheries Department would like to advise the public that in accordance with the Fisheries Act (Chapter 210s, revised edition 2003), the open season for the Spiny Lobster Fishery is from June 15th to February 14th, inclusive in any year. The public is advised of the following regulations which relates to the Spiny Lobster (Crawfish) in Belize:

Fit Bodies Bootcamp
Who's going to make it out today??

National Song Competition 2017 to be held in Dangriga
The National Celebrations Commission is pleased to announce the involvement of the different municipalities in ensuring that the September Celebrations festivities are experienced as an all-encompassing national experience. This year the energy, fun, and celebration of the National Song Competition will begin touring the country as representatives from several towns and the city of Belmopan were present for a lotto pick of this year's venue for the National Song Competition 2017. The winner and host of this year's National Song Competition 2017 which will be held on Saturday, August 12th will be the nation's beautiful Culture Capital, Dangriga Town.

Home Invasion on San Pedro
On 06.07.17, police responded to report in the San Pablo area and visited a house on Hope Street where 53-year-old KELLI RICO, manager of corner Hope Street and Sting Ray Drive in the company of her father 75-year-old Doyle Harris reported that on Thursday 6th July, 2017 about 6:30 p.m., they arrived at home and were about to have supper when a person kicked opened their door and pointed a handgun at them. A few minutes later a female entered and took two diamond rings from her father, a gold necklace with a gold US coin medal and two knives. All items were valued at approximately $14,650. The thieves then locked them in the house and escaped.

Coming Soon to Belize City: The Brand New, World-Class Civic Center!
Features: � An air-conditioned interior with a seating capacity of 4,500 � A FIBA standard wooden main court similar to NBA courts, and three practice courts � A centralised scoreboard, and shot clocks for each of the six backboard � Offices, media boxes and multiple locker-rooms � Underground parking for 100 cars and courtyard parking for an additional 100 cars � A 65,000 gallons water tank Expected date of completion: December, 2017

Barcelona FC first captain and goalkeeper Francisco Sedano Antolin "Paco Sedano" is in Belize
He will be holding a press conference later today about his visit to Belize. He had the opportunity to swim with sharks at Hol Chan Marine Reserve this morning after which he visited Ambergris Caye. He was swarmed by fans on the island.

The Santa Rita Wedding Garden Re-enactment
They say good things come to those who wait. Despite the unexpected delay, the show must go on and it did! The Santa Rita Wedding Garden Re-enactment last night was a different version, than has usually been presented to us in the past. It portrayed the re-enactment of the bond between a Mayan Princess and a Spanish Conquistador that led to the birth of our Mestizo heritage, but it was also complimented by a presentation of our more modern Mestizo traditions and culture. It was, to say the least, short and sweet. The re-enactment of our Mestizo/Maya culture never disappoints. We gave our camera up a bit last night (we slipped in one or two), and we were glad to do so because the images captured will be everlasting and forever embedded in our hearts, minds and souls.

Invest Belize Magazine Vol 5
The 5th volume of Invest Belize is out. Beltraide had the launch on Wednesday. They spent some time on this magazine, and it shows once again. It's online, and it's worth a read. "Belize's premier business and investment magazine comprised of engaging articles, enlightening statistics and important information on the country's business community. It provides an opportunity for Belizean businesses to make their mark with its wide distribution both nationally and internationally. We welcome both local and foreign parties as they promote their business or investment. Our upcoming 5th edition of the magazine will be centered around the theme, 'Innovative Strategies & Competitive Investment.'"

APEX Music @ Xunantunich Archaeological Reserve!
Thank you, National Institute of Culture and History and Institute of Archaeology!

Channel 7

US Couple Held Pending Charges For Death of 13 Year Old Daughter
Tonight, an American husband and wife are still detained for questioning in the death of their 13 year old adopted daughter. Faye Lin Cannon was found dead in her room in a condominium on northern Ambergris Caye on Monday morning. Her parents, Anke and David Doehm who have been living in Belize since 2012 told police she had been locked up in her room for three weeks refusing to come out or eat anything. They said that she'd had trouble breathing on Saturday, and then on Monday morning she woke up, asked for water and went back to bed. 15 minutes later, he father found her unresponsive. When police asked about visible bruises and a bump with a cut wound on her head, her parents said she was mentally ill, and would bang herself against the wall during her attacks.

Trove of BDF Uniforms Found At OW Residence, a Mexican Had The Connect
Tonight all kinds of questions are being asked after close to 100 BDF uniforms were found in a home in Orange Walk, along with a few unserviceable outboard engines - also from the BDF. These were all found at a home in Baeza alley, but what's really raising questions is how the police, and the BDF were led to the trove of uniforms. Yesterday, a joint patrol operating in the western Orange Walk district searched a Mexican who had one of the BDF uniforms on him. He was taken in for questioning and he led police to his Belizean contact - at this home in Orange Walk - which is where all the items were found.

Erwin Santos Takes Plea for Firearm, Sent To Jail
Murder suspect Erwin Santos has been sentenced to 5 years in prison for a firearm offence. This is after a .22 rifle was found at his family home in Teakettle village. Santos who turned himself into police two days ago, was taken to the Belmopan Magistrate's court this morning where he pled guilty to the charge. Police told us that a murder charge will follow but this sentencing gives them more time to further investigate his involvement in the murders of Markey Mendez as well as Unitedville resident Jorge Lemus.

Ladyville Gunman Jesse Mejia Back To Court
While Belmopan Police are working on closing that case, Ladyville police have also made major head way in another. As we told you, 22 year old Jesse Mejia was charged for firearm offenses on Wednesday, but today he was brought back to court for additional charges. Those are attempted murder, dangerous harm and use of deadly means of harm. Mejia is accused of shooting Elward Mckay on Pigeon Street in Ladyville. It happened on Monday night. Mackay had just gone to buy food when Mejia allegedly rode up from behind and shot him.

Two Cases Of Aggravated Assault Involving Females
Two cases of aggravated assault involving females as perpetrators are making news tonight. The first happened in Ontario Village in the Cayo District where at 11:30 on Wednesday night, 60-year-old farmer HUGH LAMB, was awakened by the sound of a woman calling him. It turned out to be a nightmare encounter with this woman who he knew. It ended when she ran into his room, grabbed his double barrel shotgun, and ran outside and met two men. One of them clubbed Hugh Lamb in his head with a metal pipe. They ran off, firing shots at him with his own gun. He was unhurt and police are investigating.

Saving Souls On Southern Waters
Yesterday a joint patrol between the Belize Coast Guard and TIDE, responded to a distress signal from a capsized boat off the coast of Punta Gorda. The joint patrol's quick action resulted in the rescue of all the passengers of the overturned boat. Acting Vice Commander of the Coast Guard, Lt. Gregory Soberanis, gave us more details... Lt. Gregory Soberanis - Acting Vice Commander, BCG: "At approximately 5:30 yesterday evening, the coast guard received a distress call that a vessel had capsized in Punta Gorda and just east of Punta Gorda town about 15 minutes away. We responded by deploying the joint patrol with TIDE and the coast guard to the location. Arriving at the location the personnel who were on-board the capsized vessel had been rescued and were taken to safe harbour. We confirmed that all personnel were safe and that there was no injury that all was well. Upon confirming that personnel on-board the capsized vessel were well and that there were no injuries, the joint patrol consisting of TIDE and the coast guard proceeded back to the operating base."

Minister says Time Away From CODICADER Should Be Used To Improve
As we told you two nights ago, Belize's student athletes will have to sit on the sidelines, possibly for two years because Belize is expected to be sanctioned by the organizers of the Codicader games. The organizers want Belize to host the Codicader special athletes games in August, and Government is saying it can't afford it. That's because the Ministry of Sports is still recovering from hosting last year's games, and then would still have to pay for a large contingent to go to the regular games in October. So, the Ministry - through the National Sports Council - is waiting for the official letter of sanction to come from CODICADER next week. In the meantime, sports Ministers Patrick Faber says Belize's athletes and coaches should use the time to try and re-focus their energies on getting better:...

Former CEO Freed From Free Zone
Back in May, we told you about all the difficulties at the Corozal Free Zone where the Zone Chamber of commerce had turned against Former Chief Executive Officer Valentino Blanco. Under intense pressure, the board placed Blanco on 30 days administrative leave. Well, earlier this week we learned that his contract is being being bought out and he won't be returning to the post. As the brother in law of the Minister of State in the Ministry of Health Angel Campos, Blanco and his perceived political connections was never popular with the Zone;s private sector interests.

Belizean Busted In Playa
A 46 year old Belizean named Edward Amado Gonzalez was arrested in Play Del Carmen, Mexico for stealing two credit cards. A Mexican newspaper report says he entered a private property and stole the two credit cards. He was caught inside the house by the owner, a 55 year old American. He called police as Gonzalez threw away the credit cards and tried to flee in a Volkswagen Jetta. But police caught him and have him in custody. He is reported to have entered Mexico as a tourist.

A Gender Violence Outlook For All
Gender based violence: it covers a wide spectrum of issues centering on abuse especially against women and girls but also men and boys. It is a chronic social problem that certainly won't go away overnight. So the National Women's Commission along with its partners keep revising and updating their national plan of action in seriously addressing this problem. The revised action plan for 2017 to 2020 was launched yesterday at the Biltmore and one of the lead figures in this initiative Anne-Marie Williams told us this plan focuses on a more multi-sectoral approach.

Mother Pleads For Missing Daughter
Regrettably, it's an all too familiar story: teenaged girl goes missing, and her parents don't know where to find her, or where to turn for help. Tonight that's what Belize City mother Roshawn Casey is facing tonight: her 14 year old daughter went missing last week and hasn't been seen since. She says her daughter has done this before, but that doesn't make it any easier. And, tonight, she makes a desperate plea for her return:... Her mother believes she is with friends and hopes that she returns soon.

Belize Immigration Systems Meet International Standards
The UN Migration Agency sent out a release this week saying that an important upgrade to Belize's Border management system is complete. It's an upgrade of the recently installed PIRS/MIDAS computerized border information management system - which they use in those immigration kiosks at all points of entry and exit. The IOM says this system is compliant with international standards and is currently operational in 19 countries. They adds that "It also enables the production of real-time reporting over the 1.5 million border transactions per year in Belize."

Soberanis Superior
Earlier in the news, we showed you Lieutenant Gregory Soberanis. As we told you last week, he excelled in a one year training course at the United States Naval War College. Soberanis distinguished himself among his counterparts, winning the International Leadership Award and was voted President of the Naval Staff College while he attended. When we spoke to him today, Soberanis told us about his experience at the training course, and how it will help to bolster the Coast Guard's activities here in Belize...

The End Of A Rough School Year
The 2016 - 2017 school year is over - and it was a rough one. The school year came to an end earlier this week after three extra days were tacked on at the end of the year - to make up for days missed due to a teachers' strike. Attendance during those extra days was poor, as might have been expected, since the school year was already over. Education Minister Patrick Faber said he would have wished that it were otherwise, but, regardless, he's keeping his hopes up for next year:...

Banking Sector And Money Supply
From education we go to the banking sector - where we continue our interview with Scotiabank's Managing Director, Michael Shaw. It's not often we get to talk to a bank manager - and so we asked him about the money supply, and why banks are offering such low rates on savings. Its been working out well for a credit hungry government, which has been capitalizing on the excess liquidity by offering government paper, at attractive rates. Its last offering of one hundred and forty million dollars was over subscribed by 35 million dollars. We asked Shaw if the market's thirst for a good rate suggests that the banks are doing something wrong:...

Cheques Will Be Processed Faster
We also asked Shaw about the Central Bank's new Automated Cheque Processing system, known as "APS 3" . The system was activated today and it means faster cheque clearing and processing. All cheques deposited countrywide will be processed electronically, allowing for faster clearing time. Shaw explained how it will benefit you in real terms: Michael Shaw, Managing Director - Scotiabank Belize: "The main feature is these cheques will be processed a lot quicker, so the end customer gets the transaction done a lot faster, a lot cheaper and a lot more efficient."

A Theme To Remember For September
The theme for this year's September celebrations has been chosen. It is: "Belize, Confronting Challenges! Celebrating Triumphs! Renewing our Resolve!" It was submitted by Janine Sosa and was selected from among more than 250 entries. She gets a cash prize for the winning entry.

Carnival Queens On Parade
And while that theme talks about Challenges, Triumphs, and Resolve, the Belize Carnival Association is thinking more about partying for its September celebrations. They're starting things off this weekend with the Miss Carnival Pageant 2017 tonight, and the Little Miss Carnival Pageant on Sunday night. Here's how they hyped it for us yesterday:...

The Swift Dynasty?
And turning now to politics, the UDP deadline for submission of names of prospective candidates for the City Council election is generating lots of activity in the red camp. It's even spurred a teenager to declare for the race. Mark Swift is far from an established political name, but his father, Ryan who's a UDP lifer, feels he can take his young son over the top with his old political machinations. He asked us to speak to the young hopeful for ourselves - and we did: The deadline for Belize City Council candidates is next week.

Amandala

ark Pollard, 49, missing 4 days after early morning jogging
At about 5:00 Monday morning, Mark Pollard, 49, a resident of Peter Seco Street (Belize City), left home on his regular early morning workout and jogging session. He told his family that he would be jogging to Haulover Bridge, and back, an undertaking which normally took him about one hour. Mark set out but did not return. Later that day, Mark's family made a missing person report and commenced searching for him. During an interview with us yesterday, his twin brother, Jarret, told us that the police have not been helping them search for Mark. He said he is getting the run-around. He went to seek help at the Mahogany Street Police Sub Station, and they sent him to Queen Street Police Station. Police at Queen Street then sent him back to the station on Mahogany Street. So far, he told us, they are getting no assistance.

Cordel Hyde says minimum wage must be a living wage
For Belizean workers living on the minimum wage, it's been five long years since there has been an adjustment, and recently a group of activists which includes Moses Sulph and others, held a small protest to raise awareness about the issue. Speaking on the adjournment of the House of Representatives meeting on Friday, June 30, Lake Independence representative Cordel Hyde lent his voice to the call for an adjustment to the minimum wage, citing that, "For the almost 60,000 Belizeans who are making just $3.30 per hour, this is no laughing matter." Hyde said that "�when you get down to the bottom of it, this issue of a minimum wage that is below a living wage, means early and premature deaths for a lot of people, because the truth of the matter is a lot of people who are on minimum wage can't really afford to buy healthy food, and so they end up eating and having a lifestyle that is unhealthy, that leads to diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, high cholesterol, cancer and the list goes on."

Castro attempts to castrate Senate Inquiry
In her testimony before the Senate Select Committee, Alvarine Burgess accused Cabinet Ministers Anthony "Boots" Martinez and Edmond Castro of being involved in a visa hustle at the Immigration Department. When he appeared before the committee today, Martinez denied the allegations made against him and so did his UDP colleague, Castro, who had sued Burgess almost four years ago for defamation but withdrew the case, reportedly after being advised that the ruling might not be in his favor. Today, Senator Elena Smith would press Castro for more answers into the allegations made against him by Burgess. Here is an excerpt from the exchange that took place:

Foreigners owe $400 mil in land tax: Senator Lizarraga
At today's sitting of the Senate, Mark Lizarraga, senator for the business community, said that outstanding or uncollected property tax due to the Government of Belize is in the hundreds of millions, with as much as 400 million dollars due from foreigners. The assertion was made in the context of the debate on the Stamp Duties (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill put today to the Senate from the House, which proposed an increase in the rate of stamp duty for land transactions from 5% to 8%. Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte, a Government Senator, noted in the Senate that the increase would not apply to CARICOM nationals and Belizeans, in answer to a question from Senator Lizarraga over whether applying the rate to foreigners would not violate the Treaty of Chaguaramas, under which the CARICOM Single Market and Economy is established.

Autopsy says death of 13-year-old girl was due to physical and sexual abuse
The lifeless body of American, Faye Lin Cannon, a 13-year-old student of San Pedro, was found on her bed in her room by her adoptive parents, who are also Americans, at about 7:30 Monday morning. Police took her to the San Pedro Polyclinic, where she was declared dead on arrival. The child's body was then taken to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, where a post-mortem examination was performed this morning. It certified the cause of her death as compression on the chest causing internal hemorrhage and sexual and physical abuse. Police have detained the girl's adoptive parents as they investigate her death. Police said that on Monday morning, they went to the room of the teenager and saw her apparently lifeless body on her bed. According to police, the officers saw bruises on her legs, and a cut wound on the right side of her head. The right side of her head was also swollen.

"We did not expect that as Ministers they would come here and be disrespectful." - Senator Elena Smith
his newspaper has documented every single sitting of the Senate Select Committee since last year when the committee was established to investigate the findings of the Auditor General in the Special Audit of the Immigration Department. We have documented the appearances of controversial former UDP Cabinet Minister Elvin Penner, embroiled in the Won Hong Kim scandal, which erupted after it became publicly known that a South Korean criminal was issued a Belizean passport and nationality certificate while in a Taiwanese prison. We have documented the appearance of the elusive "Mr. Middleton," an alleged visa agent, later identified as Orange Walk resident Barton Middleton, who had allegedly sold stolen visa stickers to former Belize City Deputy Mayor, Eric Chang, and the Financial Controller of the Belize City Council, Patrick Tillett.

"In the Paint" - Interoffice basketball round-up
In games played last Friday night, it was the Kings subduing Infotel/Mars Distributors by the final score of 77-70. Despite having four players scoring in double figures, Infotel was no match for Jacob Leslie and the Kings, as Leslie hit for 28 points on 11 of 24 shooting from the field, which included 5 for 9 from behind the arc. His teammate, Farron Louriano was no slouch either, converting 9-of-15 attempts from the field, for a total of 24 points, to go along with 9 rebounds and 2 steals. Earl Johnson's 20 points led the quartet of Infotel players who managed to score in double figures; he was followed by Herman Ramos 13 pts, Elvis Olivera 11 pts, and Travis Lennan 10 pts.

Belize Football Commentary - A case study in football continuity
When it comes to raw talent, especially as it relates to football, Belizean athletes are abundantly blessed with it. When it comes to the technical aspect of football, however, we sometimes seem to be light years behind our neighboring countries. Take the recently concluded UNCAF U-20 Female Championship, that was held last month in Managua, Nicaragua, for example. Our female players exhibited the will to win, and did their best on the field; but due to a lack of preparation, among other factors, they ultimately succumbed to the superior tactics of both Nicaragua and Costa Rica. Sometime in 2012, under the guidance of Santiago "Santi" Valencia, a reinforced Youth With A Mission (YWAM) All-Belize Male U-15 team won a gold medal in a quadrangular football tournament held in the Dominican Republic (DR).

All visitors win in Week 5 of National Over 40 Tournament
The Belize National Over-40 Football Tournament 2017 continued over the weekend with Week 5 games featuring all 8 teams in the competition, and the visitors were victorious in all 4 games played. On Saturday afternoon at the MCC Grounds, visiting Belmopan Veterans came away with a 3-2 victory over BDF Veterans, with Gary Wiltshire (38', 78' & 82') netting all 3 goals for the visitors; while BDF got a goal each from Joel Wade (4') and Godfrey "Brads" Dominguez (75'). And later on Saturday night at San Pedro Stadium, the visitors were also victorious, as Kulture Yabra Veterans won, 3-1, over San Pedro Veterans. San Pedro got the first half lead through Edgar Lima (5'); but Kulture came back strong in second half, as goal scoring leader Kevin Rowland tied it up at the 52nd minute, and Maurice "Magic" Francis struck twice (58' & 71') to secure the Kulture victory.

Smart 13 & Under Mundialito 2017 championship and awards
The final day of the 2017 Smart 13 & Under Mundialito Tournament began today with the 3rd place match; next was the traditional exhibition game featuring Officials vs Coaches, and then the championship final, followed by the awards ceremony. In the 3rd place game, Hattieville Riverside Boys clipped Ladyville Rising Stars, 1-0, with a goal from Jose Almendarez. The exhibition game was won by Officials, 1-0, over Coaches, with a goal from Tyrone "T-Bone" Muschamp.

EDITORIAL: Insolence and arrogance
In the morning and the afternoon of Wednesday, July 5, during the Senate Select Committee inquiry into the Auditor General's report of scandalous transactions at the Department of Immigration, two different Cabinet Ministers of the ruling United Democratic Party (UDP) gave sustained displays of insolence and arrogance which were broadcast on national radio and television. In Belize, you know, there are adult citizens who are committed adherents of the UDP, on the one hand, and of the Opposition People's United Party (PUP), on the other. Committed UDP adherents will vote UDP no matter what, whereas committed PUP adherents will do the same for the PUP. In the beginning of party politics in British Honduras in 1950 and 1951, the difference between the two political parties, the PUP and the National Party (NP), was manifest and very clear to see. The PUP wanted to end British colonialism; the PUP wanted self-government and independence for Belize. The NP wanted the colony to continue being run by the British; the NP was pro-colonial. The PUP had a prominent workers' base, whereas the NP supported the giant industrial employer/landowner of the time, the Belize Estate and Produce Company (BEC), and the huge mercantile houses such as Brodie's and Harley's.

From the Publisher
The strangest thing I remember about my visits to the old United States Consulate on Gabourel Lane/Hudson Street as an 18-year-old Belizean preparing to take up an American State Department university scholarship, was when a Consulate official, out of the blue, advised me that I would have to wait two years before I applied for U.S. citizenship. This was the summer of 1965. For me, the comment was strange because it had never occurred to me to become an American citizen. Yes, I wanted to go to the United States very badly, but I was happy in Belize and considered it my home. Looking back, I can understand how the Consulate would have assumed I wanted to become an American: everybody else did, and does. My love for Belize basically derived from the fact that my parents and my brothers and sisters lived in Belize, from the fact that I had status and self-esteem in Belize, and from the fact that my family was privileged to have access to a private caye about nine miles south southeast of Belize City - Spanish Caye.

BELIZEAN LEGENDS SHINING STARS!
Belizeans in Los Angeles, California and Belize will remember one of the first efforts of diaspora news in 1983 for the Los Angeles Belizean Community: the outstanding newspaper by the Los Angeles Muslims of Belize (LAMBS) called, "Belizean Focus". The newspaper that was published by L.A.M.B.S. documented one of the most interesting phenomena that today has created what is called here at this documentary series, "The Belize Gang Crisis." As seen on this headline in a 1984 edition of the Belizean Focus the headline titled, "Belize / Third Greatest Drug Trafficking Country to the U.S." has become a wake-up call for most Belizeans today in terms of the destabilization of a once peaceful Belizean society. The legendary newspaper that ended publication in 1985 during the creation of the organization BREDAA that later brought Belizeans in L.A. the popular radio show on KPFK Los Angeles called, "Belize-Caribbean Pulse", was the first in the Belizean diaspora to call the crisis for what it has become today in Belize.

The Cane Farmers Association and the Northern Cane Workers Union
With the passing of the Sugar Industry (Control) Ordinance in 1959, the government created the Sugar Board, through which it controlled delivery licenses and quotas. The law also authorized Plantations Limited to deliver such cane as was required for up to one-third of sugar production. A companion law created the Cane Farmers Association (CFA) with powers to negotiate on behalf of farmers, organize cane deliveries and make loans to members. The law gave a privileged position to the large producers and was open in several places to diverse interpretations. During the 1960s most Corozal rural men became members of the CFA, and not surprisingly it became characterized by confusion and internal conflict, as opposing factions tried to interpret the laws and use the CFA to suit their interests. There were three major factions: two groups of small farmers led respectively by Mateo Ayuso and Jesus Ken and a small but powerful group of large producers. Plantations Limited was not directly involved in the faction fights, and was often the target of all three.

The selfless genius
I can recall two times in my childhood when my joy for football at the MCC Garden was so overwhelming I couldn't hold it in. I remember when my 18-year-old brother, Migayl (Michael Hyde), burned Sol, twice. Independence was my team and Sol (Roland Craig) was my portero, but Migayl was my brother. The first one, he went high in the air and crashed a header into the far corner to Sol's left. The second goal unlocked a 2-2 tie. Di Buuki (Charles Leslie) had served it on a platter, about five yards outside the eighteen. I ran all the way home that day. The second time I went home on air-was when "Peeta" stopped Keith Gardiner's penalty. Time was winding down on the day, the sun having disappeared behind the pavilion on the west side of the stadium. Time was winding down on Landivar too. The vaunted team from the city was down, 2 goals to 1, to RAC, the champions from Stann Creek.

Right to the Point: Spouse � lover � partner - what are their options
I am pleased that so many have taken an interest in the issue of the common-law spouse and its proper legal definition and the rights, benefits and detriments that ensue from it. Now, I must make it clear that each case turns on its own unique facts and that one simple factual difference can alter the legal response to any particular case. What I explain is not legal advice, but the legal position of the law and based on your situation you need to seek legal advice on how that affects your individual circumstance. I must admit, that from one end the married spouses are asking their own questions and on the other end those I classified as the mistress/lover/ partner or any other name, other than married spouse or common-law spouse, are also asking their own questions. It is good that eyes are being opened and adults involved in these intimate, life-changing relationships are thinking critically and choosing to address their legal status within their relationship.

Pastor Louis Wade cleared of all charges in Robert Montero incident
Pastor Louis Wade is singing "hallelujah" today after Magistrate Hurl Hamilton cleared him of all the charges brought against him in relation to an incident involving a confrontation that took place between the pastor and Robert Montero, son of UDP Minister Rene Montero. The young Montero told police that Wade had physically and verbally assaulted him in November 2016 at the Santa Elena Sports Complex. No charges were brought against Wade at the time because the officer that dealt with the matter did not believe Montero's account of the incident. However, one week before the matter was statute-barred, the authorities apparently instructed police to assign the case to another officer, who accepted Montero's version of the incident.

Environmentalists follow-up on oil spill in Guatemala
The negative effects of an oil spill was what sent environmental activists and the media on a 2-hour boat trip from Punta Gorda Town to the Cadenas Belize Defence Force outpost area along the Sarstoon River on Wednesday. As KREM News has been reporting, this past weekend there was an oil spill not in Belize's territorial waters, but rather, inland in Guatemala at the Gracias a Dios river. The concern was that since the said river runs into the Chocon River, the Sarstoon was also at risk because the Chocon empties into it. The Belize Coalition to Save Our Natural Heritage, Wil Maheia of the Belize Territorial Volunteers and SATIIM coordinated the mission. After the 2-hour boat ride under-at times-heavy rainfall, there was no visible sign of petroleum in the waters.

Crazed man beats ex-girlfriend in the head with a hammer
A man who has been on the run from police since June 11, after he used a hammer to beat his ex-girlfriend in the head, was captured in Punta Gorda Town yesterday, Wednesday, and was transported to Belize City today to answer for his sadistic behavior. This evening, Domestic Violence Unit police confirmed that George Gill, 28, is in police custody and will be booked on charges. Amandala has also learned that a bench warrant has been issued from the Orange Walk Magistrate's Court for Gill, who has not been attending court for a drug trafficking charge that had been brought against him in that jurisdiction. Gill's ex-girlfriend, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Amandala that since the frightening incident of June 11, Gill has not stopped harassing her and continues to threaten her and members of her family.

Zoning and the City's entertainment mecca
There has been disquiet in the seaside community of the Caribbean Shores area over noise pollution, parking disruptions and public urination in the area known as Belize City's entertainment mecca, at the heart of which is the renovated BTL Park which has become a hub for enterprising Belizeans who benefit from the renewed buzz of activity by park patrons. However, the area is also known for partying, live concerts, public movie screening and open-air clubbing-the effects of which are said to spill over into the surrounding domiciles of families many of whom are affluent. Belize City Mayor Darrell Bradley recently told the media that zoning regulations, which would arguably help to regulate and mitigate the situation, are in the works, and he went further to say, based on his understanding, that draft zoning legislation went to Cabinet last Tuesday.


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The Reporter

San Pedro protest postponed
Over 50 San Pedro residents gathered this morning, as a sign of protest against the events surrounding the death of 13-year-old Faye Lynn Canon; however they were sent home because they didn’t have a permit. Community resident, Shelley Hubert, said that there were more people […]

Healthcare professionals discuss diabetic amputation
The Nurses and Midwives Council of Belize, in collaboration with the Belize Diabetes Association of New York, held a training conference today, focusing on how to prevent diabetic amputation. The conference gathered doctors, nurses, and personnel from the Diabetes Association of Belize, Kidney Association of […]

Bangladeshi businessman strangled to death; police seek suspect
A Bangladeshi businessman who operated a booth at the old Novelo’s bus terminal in Belize City was discovered strangled to death inside his apartment in the upper flat at #4 Orange Street on Saturday evening, about five hours after he had left his business establishment. […]

Principal placed on administrative leave pending outcome of sexual offence charges
Johnny Valencia, the principal of Monsignor Romero primary school in Valley of Peace, Cayo has been placed on administrative leave; and now a second student at the school has filed a charge of sexual misconduct against him, with a third possible charge pending investigations. According […]

Murder suspect hands himself in to Corozal police
The man who is accused of the June 29 slaying of a San Joaquin man and the attempted murder of his friend, handed himself in to Corozal police custody on Sunday morning. Arthur Joel Tzul, 33, walked into the Corozal police station on Sunday in the company […]

Burglar falls alseep and gets caught
A man is in trouble with the law after he was found sleeping under a tree and in possession of several stolen items on the Iguana Yard Resort compound in Bullet Tree village early Monday morning. Hilberto Ye, 21, a laborer of Bullet Tree was discovered sleeping […]

Munchie vs Gapi again!
Right around the third year since the brutal murder of Orange Walk businessman, Ramon Cervantes Sr., his son Ramon Jr., who has had a protracted conflict with his Orange Walk North political rival, Gaspar Vega over the murder, came out swinging this week, in response […]

PUC approves BEL submission, no light bill increase
With prices going up for many goods and services, Belizeans can rest a little easier knowing that their light bill won't be going up soon, after the latest decision by the Public Utilities Commission (PUC). On Wednesday, June 28, The PUC accepted Belize Electricity Limited's submission under […]

BTB launches new and innovative Virtual Trade Expo
The Belize Tourism Board (BTB), unveiled it first ever live Virtual Trade Expo at the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza Hotel last Thursday, which saw the participation of a host of local travel agents and international buyers. The launch of the new platform provided 27 local travel […]

Caribbean tourism stakeholders seek to make region climate change-resilient
Stakeholders in the Caribbean’s tourism industry are seeking to make the region climate change-resilient, in light of increasingly harsher weather conditions the region faces. They also feel that adaptation and resilience are key issues facing Caribbean tourism because it is a region heavily reliant on […]

Charges against Pastor Louis Wade thrown out
The sitting San Ignacio Magistrate, on Tuesday dismissed charges brought against Pastor Louis Wade, ruling that the misdemeanor charges were a direct result of "executive manipulation". In May, Wade was charged with 'common assault' and 'indecent words', levied against Robert Montero, son of Minister Rene […]

Bad PSE scores a community problem says Education Minister
The 2017 Primary School Examination results highlighted a repeated trend of poor performance, particularly in English and Mathematics; and the Minister of Education, Patrick Faber, is calling on school sand communities to be a part of the solution. In June the Ministry of Education released the preliminary […]

Gas prices continue to fluctuate
Only 12 days after its last price change, the cost of fuel in Belize got its eighth price adjustment for 2017. As of Tuesday, July 4, the price for Premium fuel went up, while the price of Regular and Diesel went down. Premium moved from $10.53 to […]

Destra loses negligence lawsuit
Trinidadian Soca superstar, Destra Garcia, owes over $16,000 in damages after she lost a negligence lawsuit in the Belize Supreme Court for injuries she caused to Fernando Oliva at a concert in 2015. Oliva's attorney, Steve Perrera, explained that the Supreme Court of Belize ruled that Destra's […]

Editorial
The Ministry of Education has been trying for the last 12 years to improve student performance at the primary school level. In the words of Education Minister Patrick Faber, "If every year your school comes with failing grades, then you are failing those children; the entire school community is failing […]

American couple under fire for adopted daughter’s death
Two American nationals – husband and wife – are in police custody pending investigations into the death of their 13-year-old adopted daughter who died suddenly on Monday in San Pedro town. A post-mortem examination on the child’s body revealed she had been physically and sexually abused. According to police, around […]

Sparks fly as Castro and Boots testify
The most confrontational testimonies of the ongoing Senate Inquiry took place this week as Edmond "Clear the Land” Castro and Anthony “Boots” Martinez faced the Senate Select Committee on Wednesday in Belmopan. Both men became hostile toward the probing senators, repeatedly interrupting them, being uncooperative, and selectively choosing which questions […]

No government response on potential Sarstoon river oil spill
Up to press time, the Department of the Environment (DOE) had not issued a statement on the potential dangers of an oil spill in the Sarstoon river caused by a Guatemalan oil truck. According to Guatemalan publication, Publinews, the tanker crashed on Saturday, July 1, […]

Southside Belize City welcomes new commander, Marco Vidal
Former Gang Suppression Unit (GSU)chief, Marco Vidal was welcomed this week as Commander of the Eastern Division South, formerly headed by ACP Chester Williams. Vidal, whose reputation for a tough, no-nonsense style of policing raised concerns that the recent calm in Belize City’s southside would […]

Man drowns in Macal river
A man has reportedly died of drowning in San Ignacio town. The incident happened on Sunday in the Macal River. Police say they were summoned to the branch mouth area at around 11:00 a.m., where they observed the decomposed corpse floating down the river. The […]

Breaking Belize NewsPJ

NICH hosts Benque Viejo's Alborada Day 3
The Community of Benque Viejo Del Carmen has started its 9 day Fiesta in honor of the Patron Saint - Our Lady of Mount Carmel. These nine days are a faithful Catholic devotion that started today July 7th and leads into the 16th (the main [�]

Record amount of sugar with less cane; 2017/2018 sugar crop closes
The 2017/2018 Sugar crop, ended with the month of June, and American Sugar Refineries/Belize Sugar Industries (ASR/BSI) is reporting that the mill grounded a record amount of sugar, despite havig less can that it did last crop. ASR/BSI reported that it produced some 144,086 [�]

Boots defends his conduct at Senate hearing
Minister Anthony "Boots" Martinez, having shocked the nation with his testimony at the Senate Inquiry this week, said that he feels there was nothing wrong with the way he conducted himself as he spoke to the senators. Martinez told the media that he did [�]

BBN EXCLUSIVE: Belizean taxi driver hijacked by two Guatemalans
A taxi driver from Bullet Tree Village went through a horrible ordeal last week Wednesday. According to the taxi driver, around 9 pm last week Wednesday, two Guatemalan men chartered him from San Ignacio to Bullet Tree Village. When he arrived, they told him that they [�]

More than $9000 in boat motors stolen from Progresso Lagoon
According to police reports, on Wednesday, July 5, 2017 at 5:30 p.m., Linda Cabral, 65, of Progresso Village, Corozal District reported that sometime between Monday July 3rd, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. and Tuesday July 4th, 2017 at 4:00 p.m., someone stole a 9.9 out board motor [�]

51st annual Benque Fiesta kicks off
Picture: Belize Tourism Board The annual Benque Fiesta 2017 officially kicks off on July 13, 2017. Before the grand opening ceremonies, residents in Benque Viejo begin the fair to honor their patron saint Our Lady of Mount Carmel (Nuestra Se�ora de Monte Carmelo). It begins with 'Las Alboradas' [�]

An important notice from the Belize Fisheries Department
The Belize Fisheries Department informs the public that in accordance with the Fisheries Act (Chapter 210s, revised edition 2003), the open season for the spiny lobster is from June 15th to February 14th, inclusive in any year. The public is advised of the following regulations which relates [�]

Woman steals almost $15k from retiree
Yesterday, police responded to a report in the San Pablo area of Ambergris Caye where Kelli Rico, 53, in the company of her father Doyle Harris, 75, a retiree reported that on Thursday July, 6th, 2017 about 6:30 p.m., they arrived at home and were [�]

Over 900 grams of weed found in Camalote
Yesterday, around 7:30 a.m., Belmopan Police conducted an Anti-Drug Operation within Camalote Village, Cayo District. Police found a black plastic bag containing 924 grams of cannabis in an abandoned lot. It was deposited as found property. [�]

Woman steals shotgun in Ontario Village, Cayo
On Wednesday, July 5, 2017 around 11:30 p.m., Hugh Lamb, 60, a farmer of Ontario Village, Cayo was in bed when he heard someone call out his name. Lamb told police that upon making checks, he saw a female whom he recognized. They had a [�]

Blogs

The International Costa Maya Festival is back!
The award-winning festival is the largest in Belize, and dates back to 1991, when it was called the Sea and Air Festival. Featuring the Mundo Maya countries of Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua and now Panama, the festival celebrates the dance, sound and cultures of these vibrant countries. It is always held on the first weekend of August, starting Thursday and running through the Sunday. In 1996, the first ever Reina de la Costa Maya Beauty Pageant was held, and has become one of the highlights of the festival. In fact, it opens the grand weekend of events, with a bit of glitz and glamour. Rich cultural costumes, sexy swimwear and elegant evening gowns grace the stage, and at the end of the night, one of the eight beauties has the honor of overseeing the festivities, and represents the region for a year. This year's pageant will be held on Thursday, August 3rd.

International Sourcesizz

CCJ welcomes new judge
PRESIDENT of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) Sir Dennis Byron welcomed the newest judge to the CCJ bench Justice Denys Barrow. Sir Dennis said after assumption ceremonies in Justice Barrow's country of Belize, he was sworn in and became the first Belizean to a CCJ bench. "I have no doubt that Mr Justice Barrow will serve the citizens of the Caribbean with fervour and with the wisdom, strength of character and sense of fairness that has characterised his distinguished career. We are grateful to have him on the bench of the CCJ and as a part of the leadership team at the Court." He said Justice Barrow has had judicial appointments across the region, served on the International Labour Organisation's Committee of Experts and has had a career in private practice for more than four decades.

New Species of Amazon Parrot Discovered in Mexico
Possible new species of parrot in Mexico near Belize! Closely related to the white-fronted, but an all red fiery face and bright blue wings with a unique hawk-like call. Not official yet, but research is convincing.

Videos

  • Fortis Inc. and BECOL about the future plans for investments in Belize, 38min.

  • San Pedro calls for justice regarding the homicide of 13-year-old Fay Lin Cannon, 3min.

  • Carnival Conquest-Cave Tubing in Belize 2016, 3min.

  • Belize HD, 7min.

  • Belize Plongee HD, 6min.

  • Weltreise Tag 517 � Fahrt nach Orange Walk Town, 7min.

  • Freediving Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Belize | 4k, 1min.


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