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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

Ministry of Health monitoring unauthorized medicine
The Ministry of Health (MOH) has increased its monitoring of medicine in Belize, due to unauthorized and expired medicines found circulating in the market. These unauthorized medicines have been found in different pharmacy's, mostly in the Cayo (San Ignacio) and Belize district. A warning is in effect to pharmacists and the general public in regards to multi-vitamin Neurobi�n ® 50 mil (Vitamins B1 + B6 + B12) syrup in the 240ml bottle. "We believe that the quality may be compromised," said the MOH. "The product has been removed from the establishments where it was found and we continue to remain vigilant for any unauthorized product that may still be present in the country."

SPHS; the first in Belize to get free Diginet High Speed Service
On Wednesday September 6th, a ceremony was held at the San Pedro High School (SPHS), organized by Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL). With the aim to officially launch the Diginet program at the school, SPHS becomes the first secondary institution to receive this program across the country. Attending the ceremony were BTL staff, San Pedro Town council members and the media, along with school staff and students. With the new internet program, the high school internet speed will upgrade from 8MB to 60MB. The Diginet is not in efficient use as yet, as the principal, along with the school committee will decide how it will be offered to the students. To learn more about the Diginet program you can visit www.digicell.bz/en/diginet. This program will be granted free to all secondary institutions across the country.

Department of Environment releases annual 2016-2017 report
For the fiscal year of 2016-2017 the DOE processed 137 projects, of which 79 were of the environmental clearance variety. That figure shows a gradual increase in projects, compared to the previous year. This fiscal year, there were a large amount of tourism-based projects as well. A total of 180 compliance inspections were reported for 2016-2017, of which 80% were inspected and the remaining 20% will be addressed in the fiscal year of 2017-2018. On Ambergis Caye, the DOE was not the only company that conducted compliance inspections. On Thursday, February 16th, the National Environment Appraisal Committee (NEAC) conducted a compliance inspection that revealed several projects requiring follow-up on outstanding matters. Another challenge, DOE reported nine incidents of Marine Groundings for 2106-2017. The main location for these incidents were at San Pedro, Caye Caulker and Raguana Caye. These groundings have a negative impact on the marine ecosystem, as they damage the coral and sea beds, which take a long time to recover.

San Pedro to receive three new schools
The San Pedro Sun has confirmation that plans are underway for the construction of three new educational institutions on the island in the future. The funding for these educational institutions is coming from a Caribbean Development Bank loan of $70 million dollars, granted to the MOE. The program is to serve areas in need of educational institutions, in which San Pedro was included. The island is expected to receive a pre-school, primary school and secondary school. The MOE will be visiting the island at the end of this month to verify the location and to make sure all processes of the construction of the new educational institutions are clear. "The construction of these educational institutions are designed to start up early next year," said Erold Gill from the MOE. Prior to the construction of the schools, a community consultation will be held to ascertain the best possible location for the schools. It is expected that the schools will be state of the art and able to accommodate San Pedro's growing population.

Ambergris Today

Caribbean Hotel Tourism Association Statement On Hurricane Irma
The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has expressed sympathy for the loss of life and hardship following the passage of Hurricane Irma and has urged Caribbean residents and visitors in the projected path of the storm to take continued precautions as it makes its way through parts of the northern Caribbean. CHTA's Director General Frank Comito warned that the Category 5 hurricane was packing winds of 180 miles per hour, and the effects of the storm were already evident on the dual-island of St. Maarten/St. Martin, St. Barth�lemy (St. Barts), and Barbuda, where, according to reports, widespread damage has been sustained.

Belize Tackles Potential Radiation Sources And Disposal Of Hazardous Chemicals
Belize Launches Inventory Exercise on Potential Sources of Radiation - The Government of Belize today, September 5, held an opening ceremony to launch the National Inventory on Radiation Sources, an initiative derived from the establishment of a National Radiation Safety Infrastructure in Belize. A team from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Mission to Belize is in the country to carry out this exercise that is jointly spearheaded by the Department of the Environment (DOE) and the Belize Defence Force (BDF).

San Pedro High Is First School To Receive New DigiNet Fiber Optic Internet
San Pedro High School and Belize Telemedia (BTL) celebrated in a brief ceremony after classes yesterday, Wednesday, September 6, 2017, the installation to the school of DigiNet, the fastest internet service in the country. San Pedro High is the first school on Ambergris Caye to have access to the DigiNet service as part of BTL's Internet to School Program. DigiNet will boost the school's internet speed from 8Mbps to 60Mbps, making internet more reliable to the faculty and student body. BTL, along with Huawei Marine, have successfully installed fiber optic submarine cables between Belize mainland and San Pedro, allowing Ambergris Caye to be the first location in the country to experience faster fiber optic internet service.

Misc Belizean Sources

mzz

Earthquake felt in Belize 10:49pm last night
A large earthquake measuring at least 8.0 on the Richer Scale has struck southern Mexico. According to Earthquake Track, it happened 17 minutes ago and shook Chiapas, Mexico and was felt in Belize, Guatemala as well as in Distrito Federal, Mexico. Epicenter 96 km SW of Pijijiapan, Mexico. 8.0, 2017-09-08 04:49:21 UTC 15.068°N 93.715°W

San Pedro Back 2 School Bash 9/16
Calling all youth! Come out and enjoy a fun day at the beach. * Exciting Water Games * Free Food * Limited edition t-shirt for every student who comes * Multiple chances to win fun prizes! *Saturday, Sept. 16th at 1pm * At the Sagebrush property behind the tollbrige. * Ages 13 to 18. Beach Party!

Unethical and irresponsible tour guides, Hol Chan & Shark Ray Alley
Unethical and irresponsible tour guides are giving our favourite tourist attractions a bad name it seems. Please only support tour operators that respect our marine life and habitats.

Help a Child Learn to Read!
Help a Child Learn to Read! Join our Literacy Team! No experience needed, for as little as 2 hours a week YOU can make a difference! Information Session at Holy Cross Anglican School Friday, September 15th at 10:00am Come out and learn how YOU can make a difference.

We introduce Andre Pitts another of our Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative
Andre Pitts is the Founder and President of Group Hug, an organization dedicated to inspiring and spearheading volunteerism, goodwill, and proactivity amongst young people. Group Hug solicits, organizes, and distributes school supplies to families in need. In addition to managing Group Hug, he works at the Government of Belize Press Office. He received his Associate's Degree in Paralegal Studies from the University of the West Indies, and he is currently pursuing his BA in Political Science as well.

PAN YAAD 2017 IS HERE!
Date: Saturday, September 16 Where: Marion Jones Sporting Complex Time: 7:30PM Price: Adults $10 | Children $5 Contact us for your tickets today! 227-2110

An Evening of Folk and Classic Featuring Francis Reneau
You are invited!!! Wednesday, September 13th 7PM, Bliss Centre ... Free

Caye Caulker Volleyball School Marathon

Belize Mixology on Caye Caulker
September 26th to 28th is Introduction to bartending. Cost 250. Advanced bartending is september 29th to October 2nd. Cost 350. Prices include all liquor and equipment. Certificates are awarded after successful completion. No experience required for Intro. Inbox or text 624-9407 or 664-2531. Spaces are limited.

Ministry of Health and KHMHA Advise Public on Temporary Health Service Situation
The Ministry of Health advises the public of an ongoing situation in the Northern Health Region with medical equipment maintenance and upgrades in relation to our operating rooms. This situation has affected the region's ability to perform surgeries requiring anesthesia. As a result all surgery related cases are being referred to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Authority (KHMHA). The Ministry of Health has been working to vigorously try to correct the situation in the least amount of time and we expect a resolution before the start of this long holiday weekend. Management from the Northern Health Region along with management from KHMHA are in communication to ensure the least disruption in the care of patients being transferred and received at the KHMHA.

Memorandum of Understanding (Mou) Signed by the Belize Agriculture Health Authority (Baha) and the Sugar Industry Research and Development Institute (SIRDI)
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) has been established on the 4th day of September 2017, between Belize Agriculture Health Authority (BAHA) and the Sugar Industry Research and Development Institute (SIRDI). The major objectives are: 1.1 To contribute to the sustainability, development and economic viability of the agricultural sector in Belize; 1.2 To engage in technical exchanges and capacity building between both parties for the purpose of reciprocal transfer of technology, training in agriculture and other related fields; and, 1.3 To identify synergies where technical expertise can be harnessed to improve the execution of work plans.

Ministries of Human Development and Defence launch Belize Youth Challenge Programme Recruitment Drive
The Ministry of Human Development, Social Transformation, and Poverty Alleviation and the Ministry of Defence have joined forces to launch a youth intervention project entitled the Belize Youth Challenge Programme (BYC). The mission of the programme is "to intervene in and reclaim the lives of at-risk youth to produce programme graduates with the values, skills, education and self-discipline necessary to succeed as adults." The new 2-year pilot programme is an upgrade and strengthening of the National Youth Cadet Service Corps and is modelled after the Youth Challenge Programme run by the Louisiana National Guard in the USA. The programme targets Belizean males 15-17 years old who are out of school, unemployed/underemployed, and who are at-risk of or may have already come in contact with the law. It will utilize military principles to teach the youths discipline, personnel administration and teamwork, while developing their vocational and academic skills via life skills, literacy and PSE classes or attending the online high school.

Belize Signs Agreement on Police Cooperation with the Republic of China (Taiwan) and Receives a Grant of BZ$100,000.00
Today, the Government of Belize and the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) signed a Cooperation Agreement aimed at developing police cooperation and combating transnational crimes. Signing on behalf of the Government of Belize was Minister of Foreign Affairs and Home Affairs, Hon. Wilfred Elrington, and on behalf of the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) was Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to Belize, His Excellency Charles K. Y. Liu. The Agreement sets out the framework for police cooperation between both governments. The scope of cooperation includes the exchange of personnel visiting for study and training programs, sharing of information in the area of law enforcement, cooperation in combating transnational crimes and the implementation of other areas of cooperation.

Special Envoy issues release on Tower Hill Bridge demonstration where journalist Marisol Amaya was manhandled by the police
On September 6. 2017 frightening images were seen on national television of the unacceptable treatment of a female journalist by law enforcement officers. The journalist in question. Ms. Marisol Amaya of KREM News, was conducting an interview when she was assaulted by a police officer. Sadly, this is not the first time that Ms. Amaya, in her capacity as a journalist, has been disrespected in plain view on national television. As a citizen. I embrace the concept of a free press, given the role of journalists in a democratic society. The rights of journalists are enshrined in the Belize Constitution (Chapter 4), and they must therefore be afforded all rights and privileges as citizens of Belize. Journalists should not be subjected to inhumane treatment by anyone. least of all. law enforcement officers! Ms. Amaya is a woman, mother, sister. a daughter and a journalist. I join the wider society in condemning the assault made upon her person by police officers. This reduces the image of our country and contravenes all efforts being made by many agencies to end violence against our women.

PUP's United Women's Group condemns the actions of the police at yesterday's demonstration at Tower Hill Bridge
The media plays a critical role in Belize's democracy and therefore it is crucial that its journalists are not censured, stifled or bullied in any way. In this regard, the United Women's Group of the People's United Party denounces the use of unwarranted force by the police against a media worker covering yesterday's protest at the Toll Bridge in Orange Walk Town. The excessive use of force was evident by the body slamming of Marisol Amaya, the News Editor of KREM News, which was clearly visible and is utterly unacceptable. "This was uncalled for and demonstrates an abuse of power by these authorities. No political party or organization should condone the behaviour of our armed authorities to treat journalists in this manner. We are outraged that the government and the police forces would tolerate this treatment of the media that was on full display yesterday," says Tanya Santos, President of the United Women's Group. Senator Valerie Woods, a member of the UWG, states that "the freedom of the media and its access to information is critical to a healthy democracy. The force used against Ms. Amaya was despicable and the approach used by the Police Department against the media yesterday was not necessary. The protest was by all accounts a peaceful one and the authorities response and mistreatment of Belizeans is unacceptable"

FCD Biologist pursues degree
FCD's very own Biologist, Boris Arevalo has now travelled to Florida in pursuit of his PhD Degree. From all of us at FCD we wish him all the best and God Bless.

For the ladies. Mistress Sharmane Garcia says BFLA After Dark
Because the men keep saying they are being left out...If you think you can handle the After Dark Session, bring your money and your game face! I DARE YOU!!!!

Macaw 2017 season concludes
The Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao cyanoptera), representing Belize's largest parrot species, is locally endangered due to poaching and is listed in the Wildlife Protection Act as a species of conservation concern. For Belize, the wild population estimates are around 200 individuals (Matola & Sho 2002). Nationally, the Chiquibul Forest is the key foraging and breeding habitat for the species. The Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD) annually undertakes a seven-month biological monitoring program aimed at protecting and documenting the wild populations of macaws. Specific effort is directed since FCD has identified the macaw as the flagship species for the conservation and management of this Key Biodiversity Conservation Area. Poaching is a major threat to the survival of Scarlet Macaws in Belize. In 2011, poaching rate was at 89% which was leading to the demise of the wild population. But with the adoption of an adaptive and robust management and conservation strategy the incidences of poaching were reduced to an average of 35% from 2012 to 2015. Thereafter from 2015 to this period, none of the chicks monitored have been lost to poaching (See Figure 1).

ALASKA Coffee shop
It is hot and just in time for the month of September. Just in time for a cool stop at ALASKA Coffee shop. Drive by with your car and stop for a short stop to buy what you need. Buy cold beers, Iced coffee, Snacks and more. ALASKA is located where Esmeralda's Pharmacy use to be.

Carnival 2017....King & Queen winners...

BEL Job Opening
A vacancy exists at Belize Electricity Limited for a Senior Manager, Finance, Business Strategy & Purchasing.

BTEC Hospitality Training
BTEC will be having a free 3 week training course in hospitality, including housekeeping, waiting, and reception, starting on September 25th. "Excellent 3 week training coming to CAYO! Free of cost. Invest in yourself and sign up at the San Ignacio library starting tomorrow- Sept 7th."

Belize Fishing Report, Aug. 27th - Sept. 3rd 2017
Happy anglers and plenty of tailing bonefish. Thirty to fifty bonefish a day have been the stories of the week. The fishery has experienced some ups and downs over the last month with the threat of tropical storms looming, which has created sporadic feeding, but when the bite has turned on, it has been prolific.

Paradise Theater playing this weekend
After what seems like a billion years, the new lamps have arrived for the projector in #1.. meaning the picture is way better . We also hooked up a new projector on Screen 2, until the last one (which was brand new) goes in a gets fixed because........ BZ... which is a huge improvement from the other other.. backup. .. anyway .. See ya at the movies!!
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN 5, Despicable Me 3, Ghost House, Unlocked.

Belizean ID exhibit
A wonderful day as we launched the Belizean ID exhibit! We graciously thank our community for supporting this educational exhibit. It was an honour to have Ambassadora of the Republic of Cuba to Belize Lizzette Perez and Consular of Cuba to Belize Mr. Hernandez with us. Thank you to our Key note speaker Mr. Omar Mitchell and Mrs. Lydia Ramcharam Pollard curator of the Window into the Past East Indian Museum for your kind vote of thanks. A great thank you to the Standard three students and Maestro of Corozal Methodist School for attending the opening ceremony. The exhibit will be on display through to May 2018, we kindly invite you to visit the House of Culture to view more.

Carnival Jouvert
The Carnival Jouvert is set for September 9th, 2017 and will be commencing at 4:00 AM. There will be a Ceremony for the souls that have gone ahead in the name of Carnival in honor of Jermaine Madrill at 3:45 AM followed by a moment of silence and laying of wreaths. The route for the Jouvert will be as follows: � Start from Belcan Bridge � To Central American Boulevard � Left, on to Cemetery Road � Left, on to East Collet Canal � Left on to Vernon St. � Right, Youth for the Future over BelChina Bridge � Right on to North Front Street � Left on Queen Street � Left on Daly Street � Right on Craig Street � Left on Marine Parade � End at Dock Bands Public Mud - Belcan Bridge Madd Squad - beside Pallotti SOS - coming from MJSC Coco Devils - Courts

Channel 7

Police Minister Apologizes, But Says Police Were Doing Their Job on Bridge
Last night we showed you everything that happened when the PUP went to block the Tower Hill Bridge in Orange Walk. It unfolded quite quickly after the party had a rally in the town's Central Park. From there, the PUP Leader John Bricneo and his Orange Walk South Representative raced to the bridge and blocked it. The rest, as they say, is history - or at least history in the making. 45 Minutes later, the bridge and the road were cleared and the police had teargassed and dispersed dozens of party supporters. But did police go too far? And did they target and attack a female journalist? Those are some of the many burning questions in the public mind after yesterday's event son the bridge.

The Mandhandling of Marisol
And while the Minister of State apologized, it wasn't enough for KREMANDALA, whose news editor Marisol Amaya was lifted and thrown to the pavement, and then hauled off the road. Today several organizations came to Amaya's defense including the Prime Minister's wife, Kim Barrow - who is the special envoy for women and children. Her statement says, quote, "frightening images were seen on national television of the unacceptable treatment of a female journalist by law enforcement officers...Sadly, this is not the first time that Ms. Amaya, in her capacity as a journalist, has been disrespected in plain view on national television."

Is The SPU Out Of Control?
Special Patrol Unit commander Inspector Aaron Gamboa is the officer who lifted Amaya, hauled her away and dumped her on the pavement. We took careful note of his combative behavior and that of his officers out there yesterday - and today we asked the Commander of Operations about it:... Jules Vasquez, reporter: "The second time I've seen the special patrol unit engage in this type of finger pointing behavior and it seems that they temperament of the SPU I believe matches Mr. Gamboa, which Mr. Gamboa behaves in the creole sense of the word "Ignorant, intemperate, irascible, sassy." What would be your comment Mr. Minister or your Mr. Commander of Ops about the temperament and the unnecessary and distasteful use of combative tactics?"

Journalist: Too Much Tear Gas
And realizing too much tear gas is one more excess that the SPU is accused of. We got directly gassed at least two times on the bridge - during the second gassing we were interviewing PUP Leader John Briceno. LOVE FM Reporter Dalilah Ical told the police it was excessive and unwarranted; the Operations Commander disagreed:... Reporter "I feel that there were unnecessary force used, because after the first uproar of canisters were released. Mr. Briceno moved away from where all the chaos began and then I was trying to interview him on the side of the road and I was telling the officer to let us finish the interview, and then they threw those canisters. What that necessary? We were no longer in a group, we were no longer on the street. We were on the side doing an interview."

Home Affairs Minister Said The Media Enjoyed Being Roughed Up
But the Minister of Home Affairs Wilfred Elrington had no apologies. He says that, to him, it looks like we in the media were having a good old time getting hauled and pulled:... Hon. Wilfred Elrington, Minister of Foreign Affairs: "I thought the police did a good job. There was no provision under the terms for the demonstration, for it to be extended to the toll bridge and I would not have encourage the blocking of the bridge. I dont think that was necessary at all. So that I thought police had to act to make sure that in fact the commerce of the country and the free passage of people in the society were not impeded." Jules Vasquez, reporter: "And the roughing up of the media?" Hon. Wilfred Elrington, Minister of Foreign Affairs: "I thought that the media were enjoying it actually or were in the thick of things. When you look abroad you see the same thing happening."

Why Didn't Broaster Read The Riot Act?
And, critics say that what should be "natural and normal" is for the police to have read the Riot Act. That's the warning - given in the Queen's name that those unlawfully assembled and resisting the police should immediately disperse or face the use of force. That responsibility would have fallen to ACP Edward Broaster, but he says in his opinion it was not necessary: Jules Vasquez, reporter: "Should the Riot Act have been read the whole in the name of the Queen thing? Should that have been read before the crowd was forcibly disperse with tear gas?" ACP Edward Broaster, Operations Commander: "This was not that case Jules. This was a clear obstruction of a major thoroughfare where members of the public were gathering illegally blocking the ordinary citizens from traversing the highway."

Aragon Blames It On JB
And while the PUP may decide to sue the police, will the police decide to charge John Briceno? Today the Minister of State suggested that he is responsible:... Hon. Elodio Aragon, Minister of State - Home Affairs: "It was only when the Leader of the Opposition announced publicly on the mic inviting his people, his followers to go out there at the toll bridge to block the road. Is he responsible for what has transpired there? I don't know. Is he directly the person who has lead these people to be in harm's way? Those are the questions you have to ask him."

Reports Say Mennonite Businessman Met Death In Melchor
7News has received multiple credible reports that say a Mennonite Businessman from Spanish Lookout has been killed in Melchor. Reports to law enforcement say it happened earlier this week in Melchor at a bar. The businessman was reportedly in the bar with two business associates, one Guatemalan and one Belizean, when a gunman walked in and shot him in the head. He reportedly also shot after his Belizean association - but that person - also reportedly from the Spanish Lookout area escaped. The Mennonite was reportedly involved in cross border trade with business interests in Melchor.

Man Dies In Fatal Accident After Being Flung From Vehicle
There was traffic accident last night on the Philip Goldson Highway which killed a man from Carmelita Village in Orange Walk, and left his wife in the hospital. It happened at around 7:00 last night between miles 14 and 15 on the Phillip Golden highway. 38 year-old Joaquin Villamil was traveling in his Isuzu Trooper SUV with his wife, 37 year-old Julissa, heading to Belmopan. Joaquin Villamil lost control of the vehicle and ran off the road, where it flipped several times. First responders tell us that both he and his wife, Julissa, were violently flung from the vehicle, but Joaquin suffered the worst of the injuries. The vehicle landed on top of him, and they had to push it off to rescue him.

The Wife Of Slain San Pedrano Speaks
Last night we told about the murder in San Pedro where 36-year-old Rudolph Pitts was killed and 22-year-old Edgar Lopez was injured. Lopez escaped but Pitts's body was found yesterday in Northern Ambergris Caye. His decomposed body was brought to the city today for burial. We spoke to his wife who shared with us her shock at his untimely death. Angela Pitts, wife of Rudolph Pitts: "He is a hardworking father of 7 kids." Sahar Vasquez, reporter: "Was he the source of anybody targeting him? Was anyone threatening him before hand?"

Compol Whylie Gone Again?
We haven't seen Commissioner of Police Allen Whylie in the news for some time - and that's because he was reportedly on a month's vacation leave, followed now by a month's sick leave. That's a lot of missing weeks for the Top Cop - and today we had to ask the Minister of State with responsibility for Police if Whylie is really interested in the job:... Jules Vasquez - Reporter: "We were told he was in a month's leave, now I heard, additionally, he is in another month's sick leave. If he is unwell, of course, we wish him the best, but at the same time, one thinks that if you are in charge of an important national operation you can't take two months off. If you don't want the job somebody else has to do the job. The department requires strong consistent leadership."

Wilfred Says Let The People Decide On Viva Vega
And while Whylie's position may seem suddenly precarious, another public figure who had seemed to be retiring is now back in the front and center. Embattled Orange Gaspar Vega told us yesterday that if he cannot find anyone else to beat the PUP - he will run again for the UDP in Orange Walk North. Now, in the standard doublespeak of politics, that translates to mean: Gaspar Vega will run again in Orange Walk North. That's a lot of baggage for the UDP to carry into the future, and today we asked two of his colleagues who they felt about it - first to Wilfred Elrington:... Hon. Wilfred Elrington, Minister of Foreign Affairs: "I think people are free to decide what they want to do and it all depends on their constituents whether the constituents are supportive of them."

Aragon Says Vega Is A Friend, But...
And while Elrington is somewhat removed from the Orange Walk scene, Elodio Aragon is directly plugged in. Since Vega's demise, he has taken up the role of the UDP's senior politician in Orange Walk. It has seen him assume a more central, national role, but today he seemed sort of divided on whether having Gaspar Vega back would be a good thing or a bad thing:... Hon. Elodio Aragon Jr.- Orange Walk East, UDP: "He's still a representative of the people of the north and I think that at the end of the day, the people will decide for him, so I leave that there." Jules Vasquez- Reporter: "Ministers John Saldivar and Minister of State Dr. Angel Campus were there to support him. Why weren't you there then to support his candidacy or to support him generally?"

PM Pulls Plug On Senate Hearings
Last night, we had coverage of the Senate Hearings on Immigration which resumed yesterday, after a month's break. Well, these upcoming sessions may very well be the winding down of the hearings because the Government does not intend to pay any more money to cover it. In a letter dated August 3, Prime Minister Dean Barrow wrote to National Assembly Clerk Eddie Webster to make that position clear. The Prime Minister says, quote "You wrote on July 20, 2017 on behalf of the Special Select Committee, requesting a supplementary allocation of $124,202 to cover sittings through to November of 2017. Then, on July 21, 2017, you wrote again asking for another supplementary allocation of $41,350 to pay outstanding bills of the Committee as of July 31, 2017.

Surgical Crisis At NRH
There's a major health situation in the Northern Health Region - and as a result, all surgeries now have to be done at the KHMH. A press release from the Ministry of Health says there's a problem with medical equipment maintenance in the Northern Regional Hospital's operating rooms. Specifically, they can't do any procedures requiring anesthesia. It's a huge inconvenience for the public in the north - and a major addition of workload for the KHMH, and the Ministry says it expects a resolution before the start of this long holiday weekend.

Taiwan Donates To Law Enforcement
All throughout the news, we've been showing you the comments from the police bosses discussing the showdown between the police and the PUP at the Tower Hill Bridge in Orange Walk. Well, the opportunity to speak with the police and politicians came after a ceremony for the Government of Belize and the Taiwanese Embassy to sign a cooperation agreement aimed at developing police cooperation and combating transnational crimes. The Government of Taiwan wants to help the police department improve their capacity by providing assistance from their country's police force, training and study opportunities for police officers, and the sharing of information on different law enforcement strategies.

Las Flores Residents Protest For School Land
Despite a compromise proposed by the mayor of Belmopan, the dispute over land for St. Michael Roman Catholic School in Las Flores Village continues, and today it was backed up by a protest in Belmopan City. Though the Catholic school management has accepted a compromise, the community is pushing the issue - and today they said it's not political - we have this clip courtesy PLUS TV in Belmopan:...

Declaring A Carnival Truce
The highly anticipated Carnival is coming up on Saturday. Belizeans wait all year for this event but every year brings its challenges to the groups. This year's challenge seemed to be a feud amongst groups - which played out in a parking lot fight after the King and Queen competition on Saturday. Yesterday, the Belize Carnival Association, band leaders, and the police all came together to assure the public that there is now peace amongst the groups and all they simply want is a safe and fun carnival for all to enjoy. Greg Vernon, President - NICH: "With this, we have a good competitive spirit which to at least calm down and make sure that we go out and head down the road very safely." "We are moving forward with sportsmanship especially as it relates to clause 7 in our rules and regulation. It is very important that we look to our left and our right and we say we would like to be as safe as possible coming down this road."

Pickstock Band Steps Out
But there's no peace in Pickstock where that well known junior Carnival Band has abruptly pulled out. At yesterday's press conference the association announced that the Pickstock Carnival band and the leader Garreth Gill would no longer be allowed to take part in the carnival. He was not happy about this and came to our studio to express his frustration with the decision. Garret Gill, Pickstock Carnival Band Leader: "Our band has gotten disqualified, which I did not get in black and white, so I can't verify it. Miss Sandra is the president for carnival and she and I have our ups and downs. If she and I had an issue the best thing she should have done was to call a meeting to address the issue. We have an issue also with sponsors, because we didn't get back Cuello's, we didn't get back Wave Radio, we didn't get back WASA and we were waiting on these people to give us a feedback and that's what pushed our band back from not being fully prepared for camo night."

Judge Explains Pickstock's Exclusion
Of course, there are two sides to every story so we got a comment on the decision from the head judge of the carnival who played an integral role in making the final call. Here's how they put it: Judge of the Carnival: "As far as we are aware, the carnival association, the commission and the judge association that Mr. Gill had some feud with some of the lady concerning $1,000 and the owner who have Gary the sponsorship has been bothering the commission and the carnival association for the $1,000 because they cannot find Garret and there is a rule that says you have to follow the rules, because they all have the rule book. Mr. Gill has been sending WhatsApp messages and email messages to Miss Sandra who is the president of the carnival association. He says that she has his name slander all over the place which is not true, because Miss Sandra is doing the best that she can to uplift carnival and to help the band leaders."

Night Three Was a Spree!
And while that was Tuesday night - last night the revelry continued at four more camps. We leave you tonight with a look at all the energy, excitement and elaborate designs they put on display. Enjoy Wednesday nights Mas Camp visits, and join us back here tomorrow.

Mas Camp, What a Way!
And so, Gill - who is one of the more colorful carnival characters wasn't there when we went to visit his Mas Camp on Tuesday night. We should have aired this last night - but we were overloaded with news - so tonight here's a look at the bands who were displaying their Carnival costumes and spirit:..

Channel 5

Anatomy of assault: why police were wrong in treatment of Marisol Amaya
There is mounting outrage tonight, including from us here at Channel Five, at the unnecessary use of force against the media by the police on Tuesday. Krem's Marisol Amaya was [...]

Police plan review of yet another Tower Hill incident
The police department says it has commenced an investigation into the tear-gassing of protestors and the roughing up of Marisol Amaya at the hands of the Special Patrol Unit.� According [...]

Organizations roundly condemn police for Amaya assault
Condemnation of Wednesday's events has come in fast and furious from several organizations. We lead with the statement issued this evening by KREM Radio in support of assaulted journalist Marisol [...]

Ombudsman asked to intervene
Ombudsman of Belize Lionel Arzu has been asked to intervene to publicly condemn the behavior of the police in respect of several recent incidents involving members of the Opposition and [...]

Aragon neutral; says O.W. North will decide on Gaspar Vega
On Wednesday, during the rapture of public support from his constituents, Orange Walk North Area Representative Gaspar Vega stated that he would contest his seat in the House of Representatives [...]

Police minister does not support corruption, but not about to abandon a friend
Gapi Vega, in recent times, has become a pariah within his own party, causing a wider chasm to drawn between aspiring leaders Patrick Faber and John Saldivar.� The two have [...]

Best friends Faber, Saldivar clash over Vega
Two of the most powerful men in the ruling United Democratic Party appear at odds over support for embattled Orange Walk North area representative Gaspar Vega. Deputy Prime Minister and [...]

Allen Whylie sick; should he be replaced as ComPol?
Commissioner of Police Allen Whylie is on sick leave for a month.� His absence, however, comes at a critical time during the September Celebrations when the Belize Police Department remains [...]

Las Flores villagers protest land sale at City Hall
The Las Flores Steering Committee has been leading the fight against the completed sale of parcels eighty-seven-thirteen and eighty-seven-fourteen near Saint Michael R.C. Primary School in the community outside Belmopan [...]

Area rep says church has final say
Belmopan Area Representative John Saldivar also chimed in on the current land dispute in Las Flores.� While the suggestion to cede parcels sixty-two fifty-two and sixty-two fifty-three to the Catholic [...]

Little feedback on nationality list; is it worth it?
As promised, the Senate Special Select Committee is turning the page after months of questioning on past misdeeds of the Immigration Department. For two and a half hours on Wednesday, [...]

What's the point of recommenders?
In the case of recommenders for passports and nationality, Diana Locke made the point that records of persons named as justices of the peace, teachers and even religious professionals have [...]

RTA kills husband, lands wife in hospital
Just after seven on Wednesday night, there was a fatal traffic mishap on the Phillip Goldson Highway. Joaquin Villamil and his wife Julissa were travelling between miles fourteen and fifteen, [...]

Belizeans in Florida brace for Irma
It appears that Hurricane Irma is not slowing down and it is heading straight for Florida. Latest weather projections show that it may hit Miami directly. Thousands have evacuated the [...]

Devastation in wake of Cat 5 storm in northern Caribbean
Hurricane Irma continues forward as a category five storm and has left a path of destruction in its wake - almost completely destroying Barbuda, and causing massive damage in Saint [...]

Taiwan boosts police communication
Belize has received one hundred thousand dollars from the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in a formal cooperation agreement on police development, including the exchange of personnel visiting [...]

Get your SSB money direct
On Wednesday, we told you how the Social Security Board is moving online and how employers are making their payments via the online portal. Well, it is not only the [...]

S.S.B. and the pensioner problem
So, the S.S.B. wants to increase contributions for the forty percent of its insured persons. Those persons earn between three hundred and twenty dollars to five hundred and twenty dollars [...]

Day three of Carnival mas camps
Day three of mas camps took place on Wednesday night. The bands were in true form as the judging begins, all leading up to Saturday's road march. The competitive spirit [...]

Police, Carnival brass get ready for Mas
On Wednesday, carnival band leaders signed on to a peace declaration following a violent incident involving supporters at the conclusion of the King and Queen Competition. Greg Vernon of the [...]

Challenging the epidemic of suicide
Our viewers have probably noticed that this news station does not regularly report suicides. We understand how this can lead people to believing that Belizeans are rarely taking or attempting [...]

LOVE FM

Is Wednesday's incident another black eye for Police?
There is still much controversy over the incident on Wednesday at the toll bridge at Tower Hill, Orange Walk where the People's United Party extended their protest and blocked the northern end of the bridge for at least an hour. The incident has stirred much debate over the use of force and tear gas by [�]

Krem decries the attack on their News Editor
The Krem Management has issued a statement on behalf its News Editor, Marisol Amaya. The statement reads quote, "The images clearly show that Ms. Amaya was the only female congregated around a political leader being interviewed, along with other male media-members and party supporters, when she was specifically grabbed from behind by no other than [�]

Special Envoy condemns attack on media
The Special Envoy for Women and Children Kim Simplis Barrow fired off a release condemning the attack on the media that happened yesterday on the Toll Bridge in Orange Walk Town. The Special Envoy says the frightening images of Krem News Director Marisol Amaya being assaulted by a police officer are unacceptable. In her statement, [�]

PUP condemns attack on media
As expected, the People's United Party is also condemning the attack on the media. The PUP says that the police used excessive force on members of the media who were covering the demonstration on Tower Hill yesterday. In its release the Opposition states quote, "The aggressiveness and indiscipline of officers of the Special Patrol Unit, [�]

BPP condemns attack against media
The Belize Progressive Party is also weighing in on the attack on the media. The BPP says that members of the Belize Police Department used an unreasonable degree of force. The BPP is demanding that an apology is issued to the media and extended to Marisol Amaya. The BPP is also demanding that the behavior [�]

Broaster said both UDP & PUP illegal gatherings were asked to move
The Police Department Officials have stated that the PUP assembling at the Toll Bridge in Tower Hill was illegal. The PUP did not have a permit for that. But they were not the only group to have assembled illegally on that day. Earlier on Wednesday morning, a small group of UDP supporters gathered on Clarke [�]

Acting Commissioner says Toll Bridge incident under investigation
So what happens now? Acting Commissioner of Police, Noel Leal says they are still reviewing the situation and will be addressing any questionable action by the police if the need arises. Acting Commissioner of Police, Noel Leal "I've already began to get some of the reports, we'll be compiling them together looking at everything contact [�]

Minister of Police addresses Toll Bridge incident
Today while addressing Wednesday's events at the Toll Bridge in Tower Hill Orange Walk, Minister Elodio Aragon briefly switched hats and took a political jab at PUP Party Leader John Briceno, calling him irresponsible. Minister of Police, Elodio Aragon "We have no problem with that provided you follow through with getting your permit, signing your [�]

Police and Taiwan signed cooperation agreement
This morning representatives of Belize Police Department and the Embassy of the republic of China (Taiwan) signed a cooperation agreement and received a donation of communication equipment. Minister of State in the Ministry of Home Affairs Elodio Aragon and Ambassador Charles Liu spoke on the cooperation. Elodio Aragon, Minister of Police "Today we are here [�]

Las Flores staged demonstration to express discontent over land dispute
A protest was held by members of the Las Flores Steering Committee in Belmopan this morning. Committee members expressed their discontent over a parcel of land adjacent to St. Michael Roman Catholic Primary School that was sold to a private individual by the Belmopan City Council. As we had reported on Tuesday, Mayor Khalid Belisle [�]

UDP & PUP showdown in Orange Walk
Well over a thousand people participated in today's protest organized by the People's United Party's Orange Walk North Committee. The crowd assembled at the San Lorenzo Road junction and after nine o'clock in the morning they marched towards the Orange Walk Central Park. The PUP had support not only from the Orange Walk North constituency, [�]

Will Gasper Vega return to Politics?
While the embattled Gaspar Vega made his appearance today, he made an unexpected announcement. After he had indicated that he would be abandoning his political career, today he said, he is willing to run again if it meant keeping his enemy, Ramon Cervantes, out of office. Former Minister of Natural Resources, Gaspar Vega "If it [�]

Director of Immigration testifies before Senate Select Committee
After a one month hiatus, the Senate Special Select Committee resumed its duties today with the interrogation of Director of Immigration Diana Locke. Locke appeared in a private session this morning and in the afternoon a public session was held. At the beginning of her testimony Locke was asked about the changes that have been [�]

John Saldivar comments on Las Flores' land dispute
Yesterday we shared a release from the Las Flores Community Steering Committee which stated that they rejected the agreement reached between the Belmopan City Council and the Roman Catholic Diocese over lands adjacent to St. Michael RC School. Today Belmopan area representative John Saldivar was asked about the controversy. Belmopan area representative, John Saldivar "I [�]

Belize receives grant from Taiwan
The Government of the Republic of China, Taiwan, made another contribution to the Government of Belize. The contribution is earmarked for the infrastructural development of Belize and Ambassador of the Republic of China, Taiwan Charles Liu presented a bilateral cooperation grant to Prime Minister Dean Barrow. The grant is for the year 2017 under the [�]

SSB holds consultation on proposed increase of contributions
The Social Security Board hosted the media this morning in Belize with the objective to engage members of the media and provide accurate information on the Proposed Wage Ban increase. The SSB has launched a nationwide consultation with stakeholders with the purpose to receive feedback in regards to a possible increase of social security contributions [�]

SSB unveils Facebook
During this morning's event, Social Security Board also unveiled its Facebook page. It is hoped that through this medium Social Security will better engage its customers. The Social Security Board announced a stronger online presence that employees and employers can utilize to make secured financial transaction. CEO, Dr. Colin Young told us more. CEO of [�]

Carnival groups vow to keep the peace
In an effort to avoid any disputes, fights, shootings or any other incidents that may result in the injury of others, leaders of all carnival groups participating in this year's Carnival Road March signed a declaration of peace. It's a move that organizers have made in order to have band leaders commit to a peaceful [�]

Shooting incident in San Pedro leaves one man dead
A shooting incident, last night in San Pedro, has left one man dead and another injured. 36-year-old Rudolph Eric Pitts was shot and killed, while, 22-year-old Edgar Lopez escaped and is now hospitalized. Deputy Officer Commanding of Eastern Division, Superintendent of Police Raymond Reyes, spoke to the media about the shooting incident. Deputy Officer Commanding [�]

Keenan Flores is a free man
Twenty-three year old Keenan Flores, a resident of Dangriga, who was charged with drug trafficking on July 31 for 2.2 kilograms of suspected cocaine, was freed of the charge when he appeared today before Magistrate Aretha Ford. Magistrate Ford told Flores that the prosecution has withdrawn the charge because, according to a memorandum from the [�]

Making PG's roads safe
A two day planning meeting of representatives from the Ministry of Economic Development Road Safety Project and Punta Gorda Town Council Traffic Committee ended today in Punta Gorda. Correspondent Paul Mahung reports. A main participant at the meeting was Chairman of Punta Gorda Town Council Traffic Committee, Ivan Avilez. Chairman of Punta Gorda Town Council [�]

EMTs better prepared to save lives
An emergency medical technician course came to an end earlier today in Belmopan. The course formed a part of the Belize Road Safety Project. Correspondent Fem Cruz has the story. Fem Cruz, Love FM: "The EMT this afternoon concluded a three months training with the support of BERT, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of [�]

The Guardian

Social Security may fail within 4 years
On Wednesday September 6th the Social Security Board hosted members of the media to a mixer with the sole purpose of informing on the proposal to increase coverage via increased contributions. Established in 1981, the Social Security Board provides a safety net for employed persons who would otherwise not have benefits accrue to them while they work. Since its inception the board has had only one adjustment in its rates and coverage and that was back in 2001. Now a full 16 years later there is an urgent need to revisit the scheme. Speaking to the media, the SSB's actuary, Hernando Montas, spoke plainly and explained that under the current demands, the fund will collapse within 4 years. Actually, the fund is currently operating at a deficit if it were solely dependent on contributions in order to make benefit payments. Chief Executive Officer for the SSB told the media that the deficit is for 11.4 million dollars. In 2016 there was 81 million dollars in contributions while benefits paid out amounted to 92.4 million dollars.


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Grenade and explosive taken off the streets of Belize City
Law enforcement personnel have expressed concerns for public safety and security during the September Celebrations after a fully functional grenade was found in Belize City. Officers of the Gang Suppression Unit came across the explosive in an abandoned lot at the corner of George and Plues Street on Wednesday, September 6, at around 1:15 a.m. General David Jones, the Commander of the Belize Defense Force, confirmed to the press that the military's operations office received a call from the police about 15 minutes later. A BDF officer trained in explosives safety was then dispatched to the area where the grenade was found, and it was retrieved.

Trapp is back and half his slate are women
This past Sunday, like the Sunday before, was another victory for the women of the United Democratic Party and by extension the nation of Belize. Like the Sunday before in Belize City, so was the UDP Convention, held in Cayo District very well attended.The latter convention was held to vote for the slate that will represent the great UDP, in the 2018 Municipal Election, for the TWIN TOWNS of SAN IGNACIO and SANTA ELENA. A total of 2,739 voters from the Twin Towns came out and cast their votes. In the race to fill the slot for a Mayoral Candidate, the very popular, Incumbent Mayor Earl Trapp received: 2,102 votes. His challenger, Lupita Ferguson received: 548 votes. Some 89 ballots were spoilt and were therefore rejected.

JP Darlene Padron clears her name on land forgery case
A week has passed since Belmopan resident Amy Forte threatened to sue the Government of Belize if her name wasn't cleared in what she alleges is land fraud. She claims that her signature was forged in a land conveyance deed, but the Justice of the Peace who authenticated the document, says there was no forgery. The JP is asserting that she did sign the document. While the Prime Minister has requested that a full investigation be carried out on the transaction, the police department that has tasked the head of the Major Crimes division to investigate the matter is yet to receive a statement from Forte. This is where the investigation stands now, basically while Forte has complained to the Prime Minister through her attorney, she has not done so to the police department in order for criminal proceedings to take place.

CariWaC ADVANCES - First Ladies/Spouses Network formally launched
First Ladies and Spouses of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) launched its network, "Spouses of Caribbean Leaders Action Network (SCLAN)" to tackle issues related to the health and wellbeing of women, adolescents and children in the Caribbean. SCLAN is the advocacy and action platform to advance the Every Caribbean Women Every Caribbean Child (ECWECC) initiative, now re-titled Caribbean Woman Caribbean Child (CariWaC)" H.E. Ms. Kim Simplis Barrow, Spouse of the Prime Minister of Belize and Special Envoy for Women and Children in Belize, was elected as the first Chair of the Network, while H.E. Ms. Sandra Granger, First Lady of Guyana, was elected its Vice Chair. Other members of the executive body are: Her Excellencies, Ms. Reema Carmona (Trinidad and Tobago); Ms. Martine Moise (Haiti); and the Most Honorable, Juliet Holness (Jamaica). Also at the Launch were: Her Excellences, Ms. Maria Browne (Antigua & Barbuda) and Sybilene Patricia Minnis (The Bahamas).

Alcaldes must undergo training before being sworn in
Hon Michael Peyrefitte, Attorney General of Belize along with Hon. Carla Barnett Minister of State in the Ministry of Natural Resources held meetings in the Toledo district with Alcaldes and members of the district association of village councils on Thursday August 31. According to Hon. Peyrefitte, the meetings held with the Alcaldes centered on the legitimacy of their appointments. According to the A.G. none of the Alcaldes were sworn in by himself or any representative of his ministry thereby making their positions not legally recognized.

Belize City Councilor makes donation to Black Cross Nurses
On Wednesday September 6th, Councilor Hyacinth Latchman-Cuellar handed over a donation to the President of the Black Cross Nurses Association Ms. Karen Taylor. The Association had to acquire a new building and will add an extension in order to accommodate its office and a room to prepare food for the "Meals on Wheels" Program and host craft and game evenings for the elderly.

BNTU Pres Elena Smith on NEWS 5:"�says to us as a people, that internationally we are not recognized."
It occurred on Aug 31, 2017 on Channel 5; none other than the President of the Belize National Teachers' Union said some things that made no sense whatsoever! I pasted the exact text from the TV's Website: "When you listen to the Foreign Minister and certain words that he uses� Come on! I don't see where any Belizean, any person who says that I love this country, would not be offended by the way the Foreign Minister uses words, the way he describes our borders, and he pretends as if though he is the only one who knows these words and he knows what they mean and the rest of us don't know what these words mean. We must take offense when no person other than our Foreign Minister describes our borders in such a way and says to us as a people, that internationally we are not recognized. How we can sit back and accept that, yet we say we love Belize?

Carnival Kings and Queens
On Saturday, September 2, 2017, carnival groups made their way to the Marion Jones Stadium to display the intoxicating shimmer and color of their costumes. The event started as early as 5:00 p.m. where a total of 8 judges did their prejudgment. During this segment of the judging, the costumes were looked at for its sturdiness, use of color, as well as mobility of the costume. Quite importantly, the judges looked for how well of a job the reveler did portraying and using the costume as well as how well he or she explained the meaning behind the costume. Two groups did not make the competition so there were a total of 14 bands, 8 juniors and 6 seniors, competed in the King and Queen Competition. Irahunu Mas Band from Seine Bight Village and Caribbean Treasure Band from Belize City removed themselves from the competition and carnival activities but Caribbean Treasure Band will participate in the road march as a participant and not a competitor.

Carnival Mas band leaders band together to sign Declaration of Peace and Safety
With the carnival road march quickly approaching, and the air of violence and debauchery not too far behind, members of the carnival world met on Wednesday, September 6, 2017, three days before, to settle on some agreements. The basis of the declaration is to assure peace among and between band leaders as well as revelers and, to some extent, spectators. On behalf of the Belize Police Department, Desiree Phillips, Eastern Division Regional Commander, wants to assure the public that the department has already called for additional man power to quickly dissipate any unruly behavior. The duty of law enforcement officers is to promote safety and peace and that is the exact intention of the police department. Apart from an increase in man power, there will also be increased safety measures being carried out by additional patrolling officers.

FFB holds extraordinary congress... accomplishes nothing
The internal struggle over leadership of the Football Federation of Belize (FFB) appears to have gone dormant, at least until the elections become the highest priority once again. The FFB held an extraordinary congress on Saturday, September 2, and all the delegates showed up, allowing for quorum to be reached. The major business of the day were some important items which the congress couldn't address on July 24 and 25, 2017, 9 weeks ago, when the delegates staged a protest and forced the congress meeting to be cancelled. At that time, they were not prepared to move forward with the elections for president and vice-president because they did not agree with the Electoral Committee's decision to disqualify Sergio Chuc from running for president.

National Flag Day held in Belmopan
National Flag Day was held in Belmopan last Friday to the full embrace of its residents. Mayor Khalid Belisle on that occasion unveiled a flag monument, which includes a specially designed plaque and a flag pole. The plaque itself stands out markedly and gives a detailed description of the flag of Belize. In its entirety, the sparkling plaque reads as follows: "The flag of Belize is made up of Blue (Azure) with a White circle and a Red (Gules) border, these two horizontal red borders are 1/5 of the total width of the Flag, with the Coat of Arms centered on the white circle.

New Health Centre in Santa Elena Town to be inaugurated
The Government of Belize steadfast in its continued commitment to address the basic needs of Belizeans, in the areas of water, sanitation, education, and health, has funded the rehabilitation of the Santa Elena Health Centre Project at an estimated cost of $270,000.00. The residents of Santa Elena will benefit from having primary health care services aimed to improve community health thus, making critical achievements in improving the quality of health of men, women, and children of Santa Elena Town. Residents will also enjoy economic benefits from the closer proximity to the health centre as the cost of travel and time would be significantly reduced since they will no longer have to travel to San Ignacio for health care services.

Job Preparedness Training begins in San Ignacio
As a part of the Youth Resilience and Inclusive Social Empowerment (Youth RISE) Project, the Cornerstone Foundation this week started a job training program. This program is being held in partnership with the Department of Youth Services and the Ministry of Human Development. The job preparedness training has been designed for 15 to 16 year olds and will be held for the next six weeks from 9:00 a.m to 11:30 a.m on both Mondays and Wednesdays. As part of the joint effort, the program comes at no cost to the participants.

6 years later and Johnny has still not answered accusations of corruption against him
On Wednesday of this week the PUP held Protest march and rally in Orange Walk , which is, Johnny Briceno's backyard . Apparently they could not get enough takers from Orange Walk ,so they busted in a few persons from out of town; paid protesters, from Belize City, Cayo and as far as Dangriga, to make up numbers .The event was dubbed as an anti-corruption protest march and rally . The fact of the date being, September, 6 caught our attention right away, as it brought back memories of something that happened exactly 6 years ago on the 6, September, 2011. That event was a story about some alleged corruption against Johnny .That story broke on Wave Radio/Tv station's Fus Thing Da Mawnin .The story was based on WIKILEAKS Cable.That WIKILEAKS cable dated back to 2007 when a US Oil company called Lagoon Resources applied for a Production Sharing Agreement. The October 2007 cable, which was classified as confidential, alleged that Lagoon Resources did everything necessary to get the PSA, including offering the government higher royalty and production sharing rates - but the PSA went instead to, quote, "a politically connected local company."

The Ministry of Health remains vigilant for our safety
The Ministry of Health has issued a report of an unauthorized Neurobi�n ® 50 mil syrup 240ml bottle that has been found to be circulating in the Belize market. Investigations conducted by the Ministry of Health so far indicate that this Neurobi�n ® 50 mil has NOT been granted an importation permit for entry into Belize and the Ministry believes that the quality may be compromised. The said product has been removed from the establishments where it was found and the Ministry continues to remain vigilant for any unauthorized product that may be present in the country. The said samples of products is labeled to come from "Merk", has an expiry date of November 2020 and claims to contain the Active Pharmaceutical ingredients such as Vitamin B1, Vitamin B6, Hydroxocobalamin, Cyanocobalamin and Lidocaine Chlorhydrate

Nemo Minister inspects flood mitigation works in Toledo
On Friday September 1, Minister of National Emergency Management Hon. Edmond Castro was on a working tour in Punta Gorda. Hon. Castro was welcomed to the municipality by Punta Gorda Mayor Fern Gutierrez and he accompanied NEMO District Coordinator Kenton Parham and Assistant Coordinator Dennis Williams on an inspection of areas where flood mitigation works have been carried out in that town and surrounding communities over the past six weeks. Those areas, which are known to be susceptible to seasonal flooding, include Hopeville, Magoon Area, Cattle Landing and Jacintoville.

Reviewing & refreshing disaster management - NEMO village leaders conferences
Halfway through the hurricane season and heading into what is normally the most active portion of it, Belize's National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) continues to review and refresh its Emergency Management Plan and the roles and responsibilities of its coordinators, committees and volunteers countrywide in preparation for the eventuality of storms and flooding events. In line with this objective, three Village Leaders Conferences were recently conducted in the Toledo District. The most recent Village Leaders Conference was held at Corazon Creek High School and was attended by Chairpersons and Alcaldes from Santa Teresa, Mabil Ha; San Lucas, Coraz�n, Otoxha, Conejo Creek and Corazon Creek.

How to handle an oil spill
The threat of an oil spill can almost permanently damage lives and environment as well as having unconstructive effects on the economy and society of any country. On Belize, those effects would be felt even twice fold considering out geography and demography. As responsible stewards of the environment, it is essential to maintain vigilance in the case of such an emergency. Effective planning and response requires the cooperation of relevant agencies that can ensure proper risk management as it pertains to looking after Belize's terrestrial and marine environments. In an effort to strengthen Belize's response capabilities, representatives from various ministries, departments, private sectors, civil and academic society and NGOs met on September 5th to 7th, 2017 at the Radisson Fort George Hotel.

Of this and that....PUP's Facebook elections
Unable to find candidates to run for the municipal elections, the PUP are finding candidates on Facebook to have them run a parallel election on Facebook. They are selecting some of the persons who post in a prolific fashion and are going so far as creating posters for them to run for the PUP in the Facebook municipal elections. The problem is that even on Facebook people are not voting especially when people see that hand of oppression on the banners being created; they immediately shy away. Its like rubbing salt on fresh wounds and even though the people being picked are good people the blue tinge just makes Facebook users hate them. The PUP need to stop this for the sake of those involved.

PUP mischief making in Orange Walk
Johnny Briceno who has very much to answer as it relates to allegations of corruption against him seems to have forgotten his past and is attempting to somehow lead a charge of corruption against the UDP and in particular the Area Representative for Orange Walk North. To this end he mobilized a national operation bussing in people from all across the country to Orange Walk town for what they call and anti-corruption demonstration. In the end a mere one thousand fanatics showed up, of course their pockets was anywhere between 40 and 50 dollars heavier. They paraded through the streets of Orange Walk and made all the noise they wanted. But it seemed that this was not enough for Briceno, he somehow wanted to look like a leader and instead of disbursing the crowd at the end of the parade, they were egged on to go to the Tower Hill Bridge and block it.

Shyne during school time
This week classes started for all primary schools across the country and any parent who has had to prepare their children for school will tell you that this is perhaps one of the most stressful times of the year. And that is so because of the expenses that come with the new school year. Parents must find the finances to purchase, books and other school supplies, uniforms, shoes and other necessities for their children. Among those necessities are school bags. For one division in Belize City however, when the school opened parents for a hundred children did not have to worry about school bags. That worry was taken away by aspiring area representative Shyne Barrow.

The Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) Contributes to Infrastructural Development of Belize
On Wednesday, September 6, His Excellency Charles Liu, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan), presented a bilateral cooperation grant to the Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of Belize. The grant from the Republic of China (Taiwan) to Belize is for the year 2017 under the Bilateral Cooperation Program between the two countries. The purpose of the grant is to assist the overall development of Belize and particularly in the development of its transportation infrastructure.

Social Security
On Wednesday September 6th the Social Security Board hosted members of the media to a mixer with the sole purpose of informing on the proposal to increase coverage via increased contributions. Established in 1981, the Social Security Board provides a safety net for employed persons who would otherwise not have benefits accrue to them while they work. Since its inception the board has had only one adjustment in its rates and coverage and that was back in 2001. Now a full 16 years later there is an urgent need to revisit the scheme.

Taiwan, a Valuable Partner for SDGs - True Universality
"As we embark on this great collective journey, we pledge that no one will be left behind"-Transforming Our World: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. New York is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. As with visitors from other countries, those from Taiwan love to experience first-hand the city's famous attractions-the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and, of course, the very nerve center of global affairs: the Headquarters of the United Nations. These landmarks-the latter in particular-are symbols of equality, diversity and freedom. Regrettably, the brilliantluster of these ideals has become tarnished of late as more and more visitors from Taiwan find themselves being turned away from the UN grounds, discriminated against simply because of their country of origin.

Mayor Earl Trapp in San Ignacio now tasked to do more work
With the counting of the ballots now over and Mayor Earl Trapp Junior having won another landslide victory, the future of the Twin Towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena continues to be placed on a forward course. As the Chairman of the United Democratic Party Alberto August has observed, "Your UDP Mayoral Candidate was elected with 2,102 votes." Coming from humble beginnings, Mayor Earl Trapp did not win those votes by pure charisma alone. He is a hard worker and is frequently seen getting his hands dirty as major works are undertaken around the sprawling twin towns.

UDP presents its Orange Walk Municipal slate
After months of PUP concocted rumors that the UDP has a difficult time to get candidates in Orange Walk to represent in the upcoming elections in March, the bombshell was dropped on the PUP. On Thursday the 31st August, 2017, the Orange Walk Executive Committee introduced to the media, the candidates who will represent the United Democratic Party in Orange Walk. At a press conference the candidates made a brief introduction and fielded questions from the media. The dynamic team all of whom are of impeccable character were remarkably well composed and handled themselves admirably. The Mayoral Candidate, Mr. Phillip De La Fuente, who has been a past Mayor of Orange Walk has said that he decided to run for mayor because as he put it he "is dismayed at the way the Town is being run" and promised to change this for the better.

Stann Creek takes the crown at the 77th Annual Queen of the Bay Pageant
September in Belize is not September without the curtsy of the girls vying for the title of Queen of the Bay. The 77th Annual Queen of the Bay Pageant was held at Bird's Isle on Saturday, September 2, 2017. There, the eight contestants participated in patriotic talent, costume, and swimsuit displays, answered questions, showcased their evening gowns, marched the stage, and curtsied before the audience and judges. Aaliyah Ysaguirre represented the Culture Capital and her poise and elegance won over the judges as she was crowned the 77th Queen of the Bay, making it the third consecutive year that a representative from Stann Creek has walked away with the crown. Besides walking away with the crown, Aaliyah was also titled Miss Eloquence.

Accommodations to suit any pocket and preference in Hopkins
On a trip held by the Belize Tourism Board on Friday, August 25 to Sunday August 27, 2107, media persons were taken to the Hopkins Village in Stann Creek to discover Belize. Aside from both terrestrial and marine activities, we were given the opportunity to get an inside look at some very high end hotels and resorts as well as their rooms, restaurants, bars, and other amenities. The group of 14 journalists and reporters had the luxury of calling the Almond Beach Resort and Spa and Jaguar Reef Lodge their home for the entirety of the trip. When we were not being consumed with work, sun, and engaging in group activities off site, we had downtime to explore the resort. We were initially given a tour of most of the compound which covered several rooms, pools, the spa and caf�, the beach, and the main restaurant and lobby.

Over 2 kilos of cocaine turned out to be sugar
Over 2 kilograms of cocaine found inside a blue GMC Jimmy Blazer more than a month ago turned out to be pure sugar. The allegation was made against 23-year-old Keenan Flores who has been on remand at the Belize Central Prison since the incident on July 31, 2017. Flores has since been freed after getting the news before Magistrate Aretha Ford. Before the magistrate, the charge was withdrawn from against Flores by prosecutor in the case, Cpl. Christopher Smith. A memorandum from the forensic analyst certified that the content that was suspected to be cocaine is actually sugar.

Domestic of Teakettle is given bail for drug charge
Adrian Azueta, a 26-year-old domestic of Teakettle, was arraigned on September 4, 2017 for possession of over two pounds of marijuana. The drugs were found in her possession on Sunday, September 3, 2017 in the Ladyville Area. Azueta was unrepresented when she appeared before Magistrate Carlon Mendoza in the Belize City Magistrate's Court to answer to a single charge of possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply.

Ex-prison officer charged for assaulting an attorney
Attorney and former DPP Prosecutor, Leroy Banner, reported to police that on Saturday, August 26, 2017 at the Cricket Field in Double Head cabbage, he was assaulted by two men known to him. One of the alleged attackers was arraigned in the Belize City Magistrate's Court on September 1, 2017 where he appeared before Chief Magistrate Sharon Fraser. He is Calbert Reynolds, a 28-year-old former prison officer. In court where he was unrepresented, Reynolds was read two criminal offenses, aggravated assault with a dangerous instrument and threatening words. He pleaded not guilty to both charges.

Gilbert Goodger denied bail for drug related charges
Gilbert Goodger is on remand at the Belize Central Prison after he was denied bail for a second drug related charge in a matter of days. He appeared before Chief Magistrate Sharon Fraser on September 4, 2017 where he was read two drug related offenses. According to police, a search was executed at Goodger's home. There they found cannabis in two plastic bags which amounted to 233 grams. A further search was conducted which led to the discovery of 0.5 grams of cannabis. Goodger claims that he was not at home at the time of the search but claimed full responsibility and that is why his girlfriend was not charged.

Two teenagers remanded for armed robbery
A 17-year-old Chinese salesman was robbed at Good Fortune Store and two men accused of the robbery were arraigned and remanded on September 4, 2017 before Magistrate Carlon Mendoza. The young men, 18-year-old Luquan Flowers and 19-year-old Duesberry Bowen, were arraigned in the Belize City Magistrate's Court where they were represented by attorney Oscar Selgado. The duo was charged jointly with robbery of Ming Long Li while Bowen was charged alone with one count of aggravated assault with a firearm upon Li.

Taxi driver shot in Cayo
Taxi drivers in Western Belize are once again becoming the focus of criminals. At 8:50 p.m on Saturday Efrain Cu was observed by Police to be suffering from four gunshot wounds. The taxi driver from Santa Elena had a wound on the right upper shoulder, left chest and upper leg. Cu had picked up three strangers at the Cayo Welcome Center in central San Ignacio and drove them to a location near the Collins Boulevard near the Bullet Tree Road. There he was shot and his Geo Prizm valued at $10,500.00 was then forcefully taken from him.

Teenager is accused of harm twice in 2 years
A Belize City teenager who two years ago was convicted of harm was on Wednesday before the court for the offense of wounding. She is 18-year-old Daniel Garnett, a resident of Belize City. Garnett appeared unrepresented before Magistrate Aretha Ford on September 6, 2017 where she was read a single charge of wounding upon Tyra Humes. The allegations against Garnett are that on Saturday, September 2, 2017, she punched Humes in the face at the BTL Park. Humes further alleged that she was also hit in her chin with a lock Garnett had gotten hold of.

More time for Inmate for smuggling weed
Richard Taylor, is a 23-year-old prisoner incarcerated for 5 years of a 7 year sentence for burglary. Authorities at the Central Prison were able to detect marijuana being smuggled up his rectum during a routine check and now he has a drug trafficking charge to answer to. He was arraigned before Magistrate Aretha Ford on September 1, 2017 where he was given the option of pleading guilty to drug trafficking or to possession. He pleaded guilty to possession and was sentenced to 5 months set to run concurrently with the remainder of his time for burglary.

Dragons and Belize Bank Bulldogs in the finals of Firms' Basketball competition
The Belize District Basketball Association Firms' Competition will enter its championship round on Friday 22nd September and Saturday 23rd September at 8:00 pm at Swift Hall in Belize City. The championship series is utilising the best of three format. If a third game becomes necessary, that game will be played on Friday 29th September. In the first game of the semi-final round which was played on Saturday 2nd September, 2017, Dragons the number one seed eliminated Tuff 'e' Nuff by the score of 84-76 to advance to the championship round. The top scorers for the Dragons were Auburn Rivero with 15 points, 1 rebound, 3 assists and 4 steals; Akeem Watters with 14 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assist and 1 steal and Eyan Rene with 13 points, 5 rebounds and a steal.

Burrell Boom and Lucky Strike win in Leal Cup Tournament
The 2017 Leal Football Cup Tournament continued on Sunday 3rd September, out at the Sandhill Football Field. In the first game of the day, Burrell Boom defeated Sandhill New Site Warriors by the score of 4-1. The goals for Burrell Boom were scored by Dennis Munoz, Angel Gutierrez, Misael Munoz and Erick Gomez, while the lone goal for Sandhill New Site Warriors was scored by Jordan Wade. In game two, Lucky Strike won over HVYSC by the score of 3-2. The goals for Lucky Strike were scored by Keenen Gillett (2) and Travis Heredia, while the goals for HVYSC were scored by Carlton Rogers and Trvaun Rhaburn. In the third game of the day, Sandhill Blue Hawks and Sandhill Scorpions played to a 0-0 draw.

Guardian Cubs win in Belize City Senior Male Softball opener
The Belize City Softball Association 2017 Senior Male Competition opened on Wednesday 30th August at Rogers Stadium. Organised male softball took a hiatus under the last Belize City Softball Association for four years and finally returned with only three teams. The teams are Guardian Cubs, Dream Crushers and Dodgers. In the first game played, Guardian Cubs defeated Dream Crushers by the score of 5-3. The winning pitcher was Jason Garcia and the losing pitcher was Konrad Gonzalez.

Stann Creek Football Association to hold First Division Tournament
The Stann Creek Football Association is inviting all interested teams to a meeting to discuss the upcoming Stann Creek Football Association First Division Cup Tournament. The meeting is scheduled for Monday September 18, 2017 at 6:30PM upstairs of the Dangriga Town Hall. The main purpose of the meeting is to discuss the start date of the tournament, registration per team, the tournament regulation and picking of teams to be place in their respective group which is either A or B. The association is asking interested teams to please be on time.

Verdes FC early leaders in the PLB Football Opening Season
The Premier League of Belize 2017 Opening Season competition continued over the weekend with four games on the schedule. On Saturday 2nd September, at the Ambergris Stadium in San Pedro Town, the host team San Pedro Pirates FC blanked the visiting Freedom Fighters by the score of 2-0. The goals for the San Pedro Pirates FC were scored by Luis Alchnovic in the 45th minute of play and Hector Martinez in the 90th minute of play to give the San Pedro Pirates its first win of the 2017 campaign. While at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium in Belmopan, the defending champions Bandits Sports edged out the visiting Police United by the score of 3-2.

Popular businessman dies in traffic accident
Family members, friends and well-wishers have said their final goodbyes to the well-known businessman, Omar Ortiz, who died in a traffic accident on the George Price Highway. The 46 year-old was driving his Toyota Laand Cruiser on Thursday, August 31, heading to Galen University, where he is the Vice President. At around 8:30 a.m., he was in an area between miles 30 and 31 on the George Price Highway, near Mahogany Heights, when he somehow lost control of the vehicle. It flipped over 6 times, and a vehicle he had passed on the way stopped to help him in that distress. Those first responders found all the airbags in the vehicle deployed, and they reportedly had to cut the seatbelt to free him. He suffered an injury to the neck, and fearing that they would do more harm than good, they called and waited for an ambulance to arrive and properly transport him. That ambulance arrived from Belize City, and he was rushed to the Belize Healthcare Partners Hospital.

Elderly Motorcyclist killed in accident
An elderly man was thrown off his motorcycle and killed on Tuesday morning while riding through Buena Vista Village in Cayo. Jessica Miller, a U.S citizen has reported to police that she was driving through Buena Vista when the left rear side of her vehicle collided against the motorcycle. The driver of the motorcycle, 80 year old Salvadoran Jose Francisco Ayala suffered serious bodily injuries and was pronounced dead on arrival at the San Ignacio Community Hospital. Miller has been served with a notice of intended prosecution

No Watch GAPI, Watch Kareem!
Goodness! I received a lot of feedback from my opinion piece last week which mentioned Hon. Vega. It seems that he still has many faithful supporters in OW North who swear by him. They maintain that under Gapi Orange Walk North really underwent notable development with thousands of titled house lots having been issued, several schools built, community and sport centers opened, drains installed, roads paved, feeder roads cleared and educational grants awarded, among other projects. Listen, the alternative for Orange Walk North, or the entire country even, is not an attractive option. Change monkey for black dog they say. We no want no sprang, they chanted today Wednesday. I won't lie to you and say the pro- Vega crowd was big, but they had heart to go out there against the might and money of an organized PUP leadership.

Tell Me My Chances
South Side Belize City, the very bleakest part of our country which also happens to be our most densely populated- here jutting zinc fences enclose clustered decrepit homes; abandoned lots can be seen, overgrown with weeds and infested by critters. Jobs are hard to come by, and children often go to school hungry. The depth of poverty here is not known by many. Although Southside Belize City appears to be where it is concentrated, poverty in Belize is by no means quarantined within this area. It seeps in varying degrees throughout. However, for a long time, the depth of poverty in which some Belizeans live, was unbeknownst to me; that is up until very recently when I began to work in some of the challenged areas of Belize City, alongside Dion Leslie, a man who believes he has a vision to improve Quality of Life here for the people.

Breaking Belize NewsPJ

Massive Earthquake measuring 8.0 gives Belize a shake
A massive earthquake measuring at least 8.0 on the Richer Scale has struck southern Mexico. According to Earthquake Track, it happened 17 minutes ago and shook Chiapas, Mexico and was felt in Belize, Guatemala as well as in Distrito Federal, Mexico.

Mennonite Businessman murdered in Guatemala
BBN has been reliably informed by residents of the Spanish Lookout community that a Mennonite businessman, Eddie Braun was murdered in Guatemala on Tuesday, 5th September. Details surrounding the incident are sketchy but according to our sources, the incident occurred somewhere between Melchor de Mencos and Flores in the Department of Peten.

Special envoy condemns assault on Marisol Amaya
In light of the assault by police officers on female Journalist and editor of KREM news, Marisol Amaya, many have expressed outrage by the actions of the police including the special envoy for women and children in Belize, Kim Simplis Barrow.

United women's' group demands respect for media
The United Women's Group (UWG), (women's arm of the People's United Party) issued a statement today demanding respect for the media. According to the release, the UWG says that the media plays a critical role in Belize's democracy and therefore it is crucial that its journalists are not censured, stifled, or bullied in any way.

Recinos Imports donate cereals to Belmopan Police Feeding Program
Today, Belmopan Police and Recinos Imports from San Ignacio signed an agreement where 140 students of two primary schools in the Belmopan Police Jurisdiction will receive breakfast cereal as part of the Belmopan Police Feeding Program.

Prominent Belizeans express outrage over Police abuse of KREM's Marisol Amaya
Less than 24 hours after KREM's Editor, Marisol Amaya, was manhandled and abused by police at a PUP protest near the Tower Hill bridge in Orange Walk, various media personalities, political activists and women's advocates have condemned the abusive action by police.

Drug peddler arrested and charged in Belize City
Police have issued an official report on the arrest of a Belize City, "drug peddler."According to the report, at around 3:15 yesterday, officers of the Gang Suppression Unit were conducting a search on Nargusta Street.

GSU find cannabis in gang turf
side from busting a drug peddler at around 2 p.m. yesterday, the Gang Suppression Unit found 157 grams of cannabis.The discovery was made at around 2 p.m. in an abandoned open lot on Haulze Street.

Saldivar has doubts about Amy Forte
While Prime Minister Dean Barrow believes that Amy Forte's signature may have been forged in a land scheme involving the family of Gaspar Vega; John Saldivar has publicly discounted Forte's credibility. On Wednesday, Saldivar questioned Forte's credibility, given the fact that she never made formal complaints into the allegations of fraud to the police.

"No apologies," says John Saldivar
Minister of Defense John Saldivar had only apologies for those that disagree with him, but none for using government resources in transporting his football team to and from matches in the cayes. Saldivar was heavily criticized earlier this year when it was discovered that he was using boats donated to the Belize Coast Guard, by the United States Government to take the Belmopan Bandits to their games.

Taiwan contributes to infrastructural development of Belize
His Excellency Charles Liu, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan), presented a bilateral cooperation grant to Dean Barrow, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of Belize two days ago. The grant from the Republic of China (Taiwan) to Belize is for the year 2017 under the Bilateral Cooperation Program between the two countries.

Ministers Faber and Saldivar bicker about support for Vega
Yesterday, photos of the PUP's protest against Gaspar Vega in Orange Walk flooded social media. While the protest was on, Deputy Prime Minister of Belize, Patrick Faber posted on his social media page - "for those wondering on a day like today, I do not support or defend corruption and my expectations are that those in our beloved UDP don't either."

San Pedro men ambushed; one killed
On Tuesday night, San Pedro residents - Edgar Rene Lopez and Rudolph Pitts were ambushed while walking on a back road near Bright Waters Resort. Lopez and Pitts were shot at by three men. When police visited the Poly Clinic in San Pedro, they saw Lopez suffering from gunshot wounds to the left side of the head and the upper left arm. Lopez is a caretaker and a resident of Mile Ten North of San Pedro.

Hurricane Center monitoring 3 Hurricanes; latest update on Irma
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is monitoring three hurricane - Jose, Irma and Katia in the Atlantic. Hurricane Irma is a catastrophic category 5 hurricane. As of last night, the eye of Hurricane Irma was located near latitude 19.1 North, longitude 66.1 West.

Hurricane Jose forms in Altantic
Last night, tropical storm Jose was upgraded to a hurricane and it is located east of the powerful Category 5 Hurricane Irma in the Atlantic. The NHC is reporting that the center of Hurricane Jose was located near latitude 13.9 North, longitude 45.8 West. Jose is moving toward the west-northwest near 16 mph (26 km/h), and this general motion is expected to continue for the next couple of days.

Fatal road traffic accident on Philip Goldson Highway leaves one dead
Last night around 7:15, Ladyville Police responded to a road traffic accident between miles 14 and 15 on the Philip Goldson Highway. When Police arrived at the scene, they observed a red Isuzu Trooper on the right side of the road. Beside the trooper was Joaquin Villamil,38, a businessman of Carmelita Village in an unconscious state.

Vega announces his return to politics
Yesterday, the Opposition People's United Party (PUP) held a protest in Orange Walk town to stand against corruption in the Lands Department initiated by former Lands Minister, Gaspar Vega. But Vega also had supporters standing up for him. A small group of about 40 people came out to show their support for Vega in front of his house.

Blogs

September Celebrations! How To Celebrate in 2017
It's the most wonderful month of the year. Sure it's hot and generally humid. Mosquito spray is a must at dawn and dusk and the stream of tourists has slowed to a trickle. BUT�it's Independence Month! IT'S PARTY TIME! Belize celebrates two major holidays in September and for many, it can feel like the time between Sept 10th and 21st makes for one big HOLIDAY! Time to decorate your home and your cart and your person and get out your calendar. Though I've missed a few events - like the Miss San Pedro pageant - here are my favorite things to do in September.

September Celebrations Calendar of Events 2017
Our young ( 36 years) and vibrant country is gearing up for September Celebrations with this years theme being, Belize - confronting challenges, celebrating triumphs and renewing our resolve. Countrywide, numerous cultural, religious, and sporting events are being held from the beginning of September up to the big finale on Independence Day, Sept 21st. This is a very patriotic month and many people show their pride decorating homes and businesses in the country's colors; white, blue and red. September Celebrations Calendar Here are some of the many events going on this month that are worth the traveling around the country to see:

CARNIVAL IN BELIZE
September is a month of celebration sprinkled with competitions, pageants, and concerts, but the revelry peaks with Carnival - a crescendo of lively music, vibrant floats, and participants in detailed costumes that shimmer and shine through the streets, infecting people with their exuberance. This year, Carnival will be celebrated on the 9th of September, and if you find yourself in Belize on that day, here's why you might want to save the date. The road march started as a small street parade in 1975 and has grown bigger and brighter each year. The first challenge of the month is the Carnival King and Queen competition, which was held on September 2nd at the Marion Jones Sports Complex. It serves almost as a stress test for the complex outfits as contestants must parade their large, elaborate costumes for the judges. This year, a total of 14 groups, 8 Junior and 6 Senior groups, showcased their elaborate creations. Jump Street Posse took home the title in the Junior category and Belizean Jewels came on top for the Senior category.

Burying Summer in History
When I first sought Galen as an option to further my studies, my sole purpose was to enrol in the archaeology program. So, believe my dismay when I was told that archaeology was no longer offered as major. I felt like a little kid who was eating a quadruple scooped ice cream, which was smothered in whip cream, drowned in chocolate syrup and had an enormous juicy scarlet cherry placed perfectly on the top, when suddenly some stranger comes marching along, slaps the ice cream out of the kids hand and continues walking along, leaving the kid lamenting over a dying dream. Apparently, the archaeology program was replaced with anthropology. When I first heard this transition, I was like Anthro-what? Is that the study of ants? But I was later enlightened. Anthropology is the umbrella and archaeology is just a subfield under it. Ms. Gibbs explained that during the summer semester the field archaeology was taught by Dr Jaime Awe. For that split second my heart stopped beating. Dr. Awe has always been my role model, and having the opportunity to work with him for an entire month would be the highlight of my life! I didn't need to hear anything else. Galen here I come.

International Sourcesizz

Irma's destruction: island by island
The category five hurricane has ripped through the Caribbean, leaving flattened landscapes, flash floods and loss of life. Barbuda, the first island to feel the force of Hurricane Irma was devastated by its high winds, with Gaston Browne, prime minister of Antigua and Barbuda, saying 90% of buildings had been destroyed and 50% of the population of around 1,000 people left homeless.

Our Weather-Prediction Models Keep Getting Better, and Hurricane Irma Is the Proof
By Wednesday of last week, even as Tropical Storm Harvey continued to rain devastation on the Gulf Coast, a new storm, Irma, was taking shape in the eastern Atlantic. Within thirty-six hours, it had morphed into a Category 3 hurricane. Then it seemed to hesitate momentarily, as if to gather itself. "Irma has begun a cycle of reorganization called an eye-wall replacement," the Weather Channel reported on Friday. This brought to mind something like a home-renovation project, but in practice the replacement cycle is more like mounting a Formula One engine in a Corvette. The eye of a hurricane acts like a chimney, sending warm air whirling into the upper atmosphere. It may hold stable for a while, but eventually it shrinks and sputters, often to be replaced by a larger and more powerful eye, which forms around it. Then the storm hits fifth gear. Yesterday morning, Irma indeed achieved Category 5 status, with winds of a hundred and eighty-five miles per hour, ranking it among the most powerful Atlantic hurricanes in recorded history.

Spouses of CARICOM leaders launch action network
First Ladies and Spouses of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) have launched its network, 'Spouses of Caribbean Leaders Action Network' (SCLAN) to tackle issues related to the health and well being of women, adolescents and children in the Caribbean. SCLAN is the advocacy and action platform to advance the Every Caribbean Women Every Caribbean Child (ECWECC) initiative, now re-titled Caribbean Woman Caribbean Child (CariWaC)" H.E. Ms. Kim Simplis Barrow, Spouse of the Prime Minister of Belize and Special Envoy for Women and Children in Belize, was elected as the first Chair of the Network, while H.E. Ms. Sandra Granger, First Lady of Guyana, was elected its Vice Chair.

Guatemalan Artisans Are Pushing to Remove 64,000 Fake Maya Products From Etsy
In San Juan La Laguna - a town on the shore of Lago de Atitl�n in Guatemala - the 20 or so Maya women who make up Casa Flor Ixcaco, a collective that produces organic fabrics, have seen their work misappropriated on several occasions. Plenty of business owners come into the group's store, ask for a sample of the work, and promise to return to place a large order. But they never come back. "What happens normally, and it's happened to me, [is] people come here and ask for samples and [then they create their own products], but now they use chemical dyes and industrialized thread," Delfina Par, a member of Casa Flor Ixcaco, tells me on the phone in Spanish. "And they say it's handmade and made by us, but normally what they do is take the samples as an example, and later they produce large quantities, but with low-quality thread. That's what has affected us most."

Videos

  • Smart Belize Promotional Update, 27min.

  • Recruitment for Belize Youth Challenge Program, 30min.

  • Teaching young children Patriotism, 24min.

  • KTV Finalist - Last Roll Call, 33min.

  • Belize Dispora - BackPacks for Kids International, 17min.

  • THOUSANDS OF PUP SUPPORTERS TAKE PART IN MASSIVE PROTEST IN THE NORTH, 9min. Before the chaos played out at the toll bridge here in Orange Walk, Belizeans in the thousands together with the opposition People's United Party seized the streets of Shuga City as they marched against corruption". The aim was to send a strong message to Government that Belizeans have had enough of the corruption and enough of Gaspar Vega.

  • FINAL DAYS IN BELIZE || TRAVEL VLOG, 18min. Last couple days in Belize celebrating my birthday.

  • Rediscover Yourself . . . Table Rock Jungle Lodge, Belize, 1.5min. Table Rock Jungle Lodge is an award-winning eco-lodge located in San Ignacio, Belize. With only ten cabanas and over 105-acres of rainforest preserve, working farm, and half-mile of river frontage, Table Rock's intimate setting within the trees has hosted more than 6,000 guests since its opening in the fall of 2007.

  • Marines in Belize, 2min.

  • Belize Partnership Update, 9min. Pastor Paul at Kings Children's Home gives Mount Pleasant an update.

  • In honor of manatee awareness month in Belize and International Manatee Appreciation Day!, 2min. Oceana Belize

  • Belize Rural South PUP Endorsement Convention, 100min.

  • BELIZE CITY - FOOD CRAWL 2017, 5min. During the weeks before my departure, I visited few of the many restaurants in Belize City. I am a person who likes to try most things at least once. So in this video, there are places I already visited and places I visited for the first time. Enjoy and don't get too hungry. - Coral Bubbles( downtown location) - As seen in my previous video. this place has the best BOBA milk tea in Belize City, and they recently opened a downtown location, which is great because I don;t have to go far. - Midtown restaurant and Bar - this place just opened recently so I and my friend decided to try it out to see if it was any good. Check out the food and prices in the Video. This is considered to be a high class restaurant, the prices were definitely of one, however, the food is another story. - Gong Cha - a famous franchise in different parts of the world, however, this is the first one in Belize, the atmosphere was nice and modern, the prices are reasonable and some of the dishes are really good - Wine N Wok - first teppanyaki restaurant in Belize City, went there specifically to try it out, it was entertaining but the food was not up to par, check it out in the video - Pandora Cafe - little cafe with great drinks, get ready to pay a little extra for the drinks but most of them are quite delicious so worth it.

  • Adventure TRAVEL in BELIZE: Part II: Caves, Canoe & Jungle, 38min. This is the second half of our trip to Belize in March 2017- going from Hopkins to Belmopan first we stopped at St. Herman's cave at the Blue Hole National Park, Then to Belmopan, the Belmopan market, took a Canoe trip on the Belize river, visited some butterflies, went on a cave waterfall climbing expedition, explored a national park and visited some mayan ruins.

  • Day at the beach in Belize, 2min. Splendid white sand beach and spectacular blue waters to enjoy here in Placencia, Belize during low tourist season in September. Featuring the two most popular beachside bars in the area with live Reggae music and dancing! Join us for our next wellness retreat and have some Caribbean style fun!

  • Belize Adventure, 4min. The beautiful country of Belize!

  • Unbelizeable - 2 Weeks in Belize, 31min. Two weeks exploring the beautiful country of Belize. For a small country in Central America there is so much to do here.


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