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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
Pink eye epidemic results in medication shortage on Ambergris Caye
The number of cases of Conjunctivitis, or 'pink eye,' across Ambergris Caye has led to a medication shortage. The contagious virus is an inflammation or swelling of the conjunctiva which causes irritation and reddening of the eyes. To treat the symptoms doctors are prescribing special eye drops and creams that are now in short supply.
While medication is limited on the island, Dr. Salim from the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II says the number of people needing treatment has been decreasing. "We had hundreds of patients per day, it's down to like 50 patients per day". The polyclinic confirmed that they were out of medication for a while, but it is now available for patients.
Pharmacists on the island are also reporting that they are out of medication, but efforts to provide more are underway.
All set for San Pedro Volleyball Tournament
The San Pedro Volleyball Association along with the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) will be hosting a volleyball tournament starting Saturday, October 7th. The tournament will see participants competing in four categories, primary school, high school, female and senior male. In addition, tournament organizers are encouraging friendly games between players 40 and over.
A total of 32 teams have registered to play. Everyone is invited to come out to the Angel Nu�ez Auditorium and support their favorite teams. The first round of games will take place on Saturday, October 7th starting at 3PM and Sunday, October 8th starting at 1PM. Schedule is as follow:
ADVISORY NO. 1: TROPICAL DEPRESSION SIXTEEN (TD 16) FORMS OFF THE COAST OF NICARAGUA
NEMO in collaboration with the National Meteorological Service hereby informs the general public that Tropical Depression Sixteen (16) with maximum sustained winds of 35 miles per hour recently formed off the coast of Nicaragua. TD 16 is located at 12.2 North Latitude and 81.9 West Longitude. It is moving due northwest at 7 miles per hour. It is forecasted to continue move in that direction. If it maintains its projected path based on that forecast it is expected to become a Tropical Storm and by Friday, 6th October 2017 it is expected to be east of Belize, or directly in front of us.
Island community steps up to assist Mexico's Relief Efforts
Belize's neighboring country of Mexico continues to recover weeks after a 7.1 magnitude earthquake affected their capital city. In the wake of the catastrophe that has left more than 360 residents dead, many organizations have stepped up to provide assistance. Among those aiding Mexico in its disaster relief is the community of San Pedro Town. In an effort to raise relief funds for our Mexican counterparts, the San Pedro Town Council, in collaboration with the San Pedro Lion's Club, Projects Abroad, Sagebrush Church and the San Pedro Branch of the Belize Red Cross embarked on a massive humanitarian fundraiser.
The fundraising efforts started on Saturday, September 30th with a food sale and dollar drive at Central Park. Throughout the day, volunteers united to show love and kindness to those affected in Mexico City. At the end of the day a total of $806 was collected in cash donations, along with $942 from the food sales, resulting in a combined total of $1,748 to be donated to Mexico.
PC Nestor Campos is September's Officer of the Month
On Friday, September 29th, the San Pedro Police Formation awarded the title of Officer of the Month for September 2017 to Police Constable (PC) Nestor Campos. Presenting the award were Officer in Charge of the Coastal Executive Unit, Superintendent Henry Jemmott and Area Representative, Honorable Manuel Heredia Junior. For his hard work and determination, PC Campos received a commemorative certificate as well as a monetary gift.
In May 2017, PC Campos was assigned to man the North Ambergris Caye Police Substation. Since then, Campos has demonstrated commitment to his policing duties. "We decided to award him as Officer of the Month for his good work in managing the booth north of the San Pedro Town. PC Campos has also been conducting great community policing with the residents of Northern Ambergris Caye. We believe that his efforts has assisted the community in minimizing incidents of crime," said Jemmott.
Ambergris Today
NEMO Issues Tropical Depression Advisory (TD 16) Forms Off Nicaragua Coast
NEMO in collaboration with the National Meteorological Service hereby informs the general public that Tropical Depression Sixteen (16) with maximum sustained winds of 35 miles per hour recently formed off the coast of Nicaragua.
TD 16 is located at 12.2 North Latitude and 81.9 West Longitude. It is moving due northwest at 7 miles per hour. It is forecasted to continue move in that direction. If it maintains its projected path based on that forecast it is expected to become a Tropical Storm and by Friday, October 6, 2017 it is expected to be east of Belize, or directly in front of us.
Misc Belizean Sources
Forest Department Continues to Enforce New Amendments for Forest Offences
With the logging season swiftly approaching, the Forest Department wishes to remind the public that any person found engaging in illegal logging will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
The Forest Department continues to enforce the new amendments to the Forest Act, which stipulate that:
1. Any person in possession of specific timber species, such as Mahogany, Cedar, Rosewood, Santa Maria, Pine and others listed in the Second Schedule, may face imprisonment or be fined up to three times the value based on the (a) commercial price, (b) ecological value, and (c) rarity of the timber species. (calculations specified in Second Schedule)
Someone burned tires this Wednesday October 4th near the Haulover Bridge
The police department is expected to question the usual suspects. The road has been cleared.
Poesia versus diferendo
abre dialogo intelectual entre Guatemala y Belice
SPOOK Halloween Costume Party Oct. 28
The Biggest and Most Spooktacular Halloween Costume Party on the Westside. Every year It Gets Bigger and Better. Come dressed in Costume of your choice and win great Prizes inside the Fabulous Next Lounge - Princess Int'l San Ignacio - Saturday October 28th,2017. Musical Niceness by Cloud 9
Welcome to Belize, Kendis Gibson!
2017 Coastal and River Cleanup
Department of Youth Services cleaning around Roaring Creek
New plant species for Bladen Nature Reserve and Golden Stream Corridor Preserve!
15 years ago this tree species was found by botanist Dr Steven W. Brewer in Bladen, it has been identified this year as a new species! Botanists have named it Parasenegalia lundellii. It is found on limestone hills. This is the third new plant species for the Maya Golden Landscape. Read more at http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.3417/2015050.
The Placencia Breeze October 2017
What's Inside: Pg 3 From the Fire Hearth - Beers & Bocas Pg 6 PanAm gives back to comunity Pg 7 Croc Corner Pg 9 Tipsy Tuna - Membership Spotlight Pg 10 Fishing Tournament Winners & Sponsers Pg 11 Seine Bight News Pg 15 & 18 Placencia BTIA Members Pg 16 & 17 Placencia Peninsula Map Pg 20/21 Placencia Peninsula Guide Pg 22 PHS News Pg 23 Placencia Community News Pg 24 Beaches Cleanups / Conch Recipes / PHS News Pg 27 End of World Marathon Pg 28 Placencia Rotary News Pg 29 Mistletoe Ball Pg 30 Placencia Peninsula Happenings Pg 31 Calender of Events See Less
World Animal Day today, Free Big Red!
First Friday Tres Cocos Trash Pickup for October
Friday, October 6 at 8 AM - 10 AM, Meet in front of Paradise Theater. We really, really, need your help.
Even if you can't join us on Friday, can you at least repost this message so that others might see it and join the fun?
While tossing trash on the roads and beaches of Ambergris Caye is an all-day, every-day thing, we only get out there once a month to clean up. We wish we had the numbers to do more, but we don't.
If you can join us this Friday, I promise you one thing: You'll feel better about this island and yourself. (OK, maybe that is two things.) I can also promise you iced coffee and cookies at Marbucks, because they love us and we love them!
Splashers
Join us this week at Crazy Canucks to paint "Blooming Love" from 2pm-4pm! Remember to sign up to reserve your seat for Thursday October 5th.
Belize to Commemorate Anti-Corruption Week in December
On Monday, October 2nd, Belize's Project Board for the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) convened its bi-monthly meeting at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Headquarters in Belmopan.
The UNCAC Project Board is tasked with making management decisions by consensus for projects, including approval of project plans and revisions; conducting a comprehensive assessment of the legal and institutional framework of Belize to support the development of a National Anti-corruption Implementation Plan; making recommendations for enhancement of state institutions/human resources and civil society organizations to nationally implement anti-corruption policies; and implementing a nationwide Anti-corruption Advocacy Campaign utilizing a multi-sectoral approach.
Ladyville Spooktacular
Ladyville Community Center is going to be spooktacular on Saturday October 28..from 6:00pm - 10:00pm make it a family affair...at 10pm put the kiddies to bed and get ready for the dance call Vampire's kiss with music by DJ Vic.. those in costume receive a free vampire's kiss martini!
Rhythm of Change Belize ( ROC) is proud to introduce our new Ambassador : Jyoti Chandwani
Jyoti is a dedicated mother, wife, business partner and Yogi. She has been practicing yoga for over four years and believes in its power to transform one's life and overall well-being.
She takes her practice "off the mat", by devoting time to serve others. She believes that true happiness comes from giving. And that helping others along the way satisfies the soul. Jyoti is also a Reiki practitioner. She travels along with ROC Yoga instructors to the Belize Youth Hostel and Belize Central Prison ( Kolbe Foundation )to teach Yoga.
Caribbean Resilience Forum
On September 26-27th, 2017 Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute was represented in Nassau, Bahamas at the Caribbean Resilience Forum by our Director Mrs. Arlene Young and Chief executive Officer Mrs. Chantelle Samuels. The Forum was centered around gathering key stakeholders who could scale up climate resilient coastal zone management in The Caribbean region. While attending the forum our Chief Executive Officer presented on the new Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan.
PACT- UB Scholarship Program 2017
Five students received scholarships valued at $50,000 to pursue bachelor's degrees as a result of a partnership between the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) and the University of Belize (UB). On Wednesday, September 27, 2017, the PACT-UB SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME Ceremony took place in the Administration Conference Room at the UB Belmopan Campus.
The five students awarded are from the Faculty of Science and Technology and Faculty of Nursing, Allied Health and Social Work. Monica Coe is pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Natural Resource Management; Luwin Tzib, a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics; Maria Pech, a Bachelor's Degree in Natural Resource Management; Daedra Bennett, a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work and Tara Scarborough, a Bachelor's Degree in Biology.
In a room filled with parents and UB and PACT staff, the recipients shared their thoughts about being awarded and Ms. Tara Scarborough said she felt privileged to be there amongst students who have made both their parents and UB proud.
PACT Scholarship to 5 UB Students
UB students receive PACT scholarships
Full Moon Concert in Corozal
The Corozal House of Culture kindly invites you to enjoy the Pan American holiday weekend with a night of high energy sounds by Dynamics of Belize. Please join us at 7:30 pm Saturday October 7th, 2017 at the House of Culture for a great night of Belizean music.
Power interruption portion Belize City on Friday, October 6 from 9:00am to 3:00pm
Buttonwood Bay and Belama Phase 1. BEL to install poles for high voltage lines and connect commercial customer in the area.
"How exciting is your life?" asked a young Belizean student
Well, Kendis Gibson's visit to Samuel Haynes Institute of Excellence today definitely made our day exciting and special!
Home Remedies for Pink Eye Symptoms
Tulsi, also known as holy basil, is known for its healing power. It has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that protect the eyes from environmental damage and free radicals. It also has the power to fight viral, bacterial and fungal infections in the eyes.
The bioflavonoids present in green tea - like matcha green tea - relieve irritation and inflammation caused by pink eye while fighting bacterial and viral infections. Dip a green tea bag in boiled water and place it on the infected eye once it's cool enough to touch. Or make a cup of green tea and soak a clean washcloth in it to create a warm compress.
Channel 7
Bank Robbery At Scotiabank Spanish Lookout
There was an armed robbery at the Scotiabank Branch in Spanish Lookout today - the first one since that deadly heist in March of 2010.
Fortunately, this time around, no bank employees, security guards, or customers were hurt, but the 3 armed robbers managed to get away with an undisclosed amount of cash.
The incident actually started in Belmopan this morning, where 3 Hispanic men approached 62 year-old taxi driver Oscar Cordon, who works the Belmopan terminal circuit. Police say that the men approached him to do a taxi run but he refused. That's when the men forced him to take them, and at some point, they threw him into the car trunk.
They then drove to an area near the Buena Vista Junction, which just outside of Spanish Lookout.
17 Year Old Charged for Killing 18 Year Old On San Pedro
Two persons were charged for murder today. The first is a 17 year old - who has been charged for the murder of 18 year old Christian Contreras. As we reported, Contreras and 28 year old Ryan Lucas were shot in front of Compadres bar in San Pedro town in broad daylight at 11:30 yesterday morning. Contreras died on the spot while Lucas received various injuries.
It happened in plain view and Island police have moved swiftly to make an arrest. Today an ID parade was conducted and a 17 year old was today charged for murder, use of deadly means of harm and attempted murder on Ryan Lucas.
Police still don't know the motive but are confident based on eyewitness accounts that they have the shooter. The suspect is not an island resident but went to the island form southern Belize and has been living there for a year.
Police Catch Up With Alleged Shooter In Bar Brawl
An alleged killer was also charged today - this one in Belize City. 23 year old Steve Martin Moss was charged with the murder of 31 year old Daniel Anderson.
When he appeared before Chief Magistrate Sharon Fraser. Moss was also charged with 2 counts of attempted murder and 2 counts of use of deadly means of harm for the other party goers who were injured. Moss was remanded to prison.
The incident happened on Sunday morning at Alex Underwood's 28th birthday celebration at Bismark Club. Daniel Anderson was at the party with friends and a confrontation was sparked between Moss and Anderson while another started up with Anderson's girlfriend and another female.
Is Compol Whylie Headed For The Exit? He Says He's Only Human
And while police have been making arrests for recent murders, its an uphill battle - especially in the Belize District where there have been close to 20 murders in the past three months.
And through these turbulent months for law enforcement, we've been pointing to the absence of Police Commissioner Allen Whylie.
Well, this week, he's back on the job after two months total of personal leave and sick leave. But his absence was cause for speculation that Whylie's job was up for grabs, and and that a new Commissioner of Police was in the making.
So today, in his first press opportunity today after his return, the question was put directly to him. Is he on the way out? Here's how he answered:
COMPOL Says GSU Not Going Anywhere
And in that same breath, Police Commissioner Whylie also said that as far he knows, the Gang Suppression Unit isn't going anywhere.
Now, you'll remember last week when Prime Minister Dean Barrow acknowledged the public mistrust for the GSU. That's because many in the public were all too willing to believe the worst of the unit, suspecting that they killed 17 year-old Kelvin Usher when he went missing near Lucky Strike Village.
The Prime Minister said, "There is... going to be...a re-purposing of the GSU."
Some have interpreted that statement to mean that it may be disbanded, but the Commissioner said that that's not his impression:
Santa Martha Village Underwater
Tonight Belize is keeping its eye on Tropical Depression 16 - which, NEMO says could cause heavy rain and flooding in Belize. But, in Santa Martha Village on the old Northern Highway - there's already heavy flooding!
Waters inundated the southern-most village in the Orange Walk District over the weekend, and Floodwaters overtook them yesterday.
But, Santa Marta is a tiny village on al title used road - so this flooding event hasn't gotten the attention it should have. But as you can see, it's very major with waist high water in some areas.
Today our colleagues from CTV-3 spoke to a few villagers - who are crying out for help:
TD 16 Threat: NEMO Says No Boats On Friday
And while Santa Marta's plight has gotten little attention - tonight's the nation's eye are on Tropical Depression 16, which is hovering off the coast of Nicaragua. According to the latest report from the National Hurricane center in Miami, the system has winds of 35 miles an hour, and is presently 60 miles west of San Andres Island. A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Sandy Bay Sirpi Nicaragua to Punta Castilla Honduras. The system is moving northwest which would push it way from Belize, but NEMO says, you have to be prepared for anything.
NEMO says If it maintains its projected path it is expected to become a Tropical Storm and by Friday, 6th October 2017 it is expected to be east of Belize, or directly in front of us.
An advisory adds, "The public is hereby advised to make preparations to protect life and property. If you are at risk to bad weather and flooding start discussing arrangements to move to higher grounds."
It also says, "Do not venture out to sea after Friday, 6th October 2017."
Another Tyre Fire - This Time It's Haulover Bridge
Before dawn today, someone started a tyre fire on the southern approach of the Haulover Bridge.
As many as 15 types were placed on the road and set on fire - in an attempt to obstruct the heavy rush of early morning traffic from northern Belize into the city.
But while it did inconvenience a few drivers who were on the road very early - the tyre fire didn't have much of an effect.
That's because the Fire Department came and put it out quickly, and swept the debris off the road. The regular flow of traffic was restored within an hour, meaning that traffic was moving as normal by 6:00 AM.
A Shark's Story
Sharks and stingrays are NOT the first species that come to mind when you think of protection or conservation. Besides, you probably figure that those sea creatures can protect themselves...and the fewer sharks there are preying on fish and terrorizing swimmers in the waters, the better, right?
Wrong. Conservationists say that in fact sharks and sting rays have a central role in the marine life. Today at a workshop at the Biltmore, Courtney Weatherburne found out just how special these much misunderstood species are in Belize.
Courtney Weatherburne reporting:
Sharks are one of the most feared animals on the planet. But apart from roaming and hunting prey in the depths of the sea, sharks play a very important role in harmonizing the marine ecosystem.
Life In Prison For Yo Creek Villager Guilty of Murder
Javier Ack was murdered on June 14th, 2012. He was drinking with friends and an argument ended with Ack being fatally stabbed in the heart.
Yesterday in the Northern Session of the Supreme Court, the alleged perpetrator, Yo Creek resident Edwin Hernan Castillo was sentenced to life in prison by Justice Herbert Lord after he was found guilty of committing the murder.
But new parole make it so that those sensed to life can qualify for parole. So, with that, Justice Lord gave Castillo a minimum sentence of 25 years. Castillo has been in prison since 2012 so he will have to serve 19 years in prison before he can apply for parole.
Ministry Says Teachers at Claver College Making Baseless Demands
Yesterday we told you about the complaints from the teachers at Claver College Extension in Punta Gorda. According to them, the ministry did not give them their usual stipend. Well, today the Minister of Education Patrick Faber told us the teachers are going about this all wrong.
Today Faber explained that the Education Ministry has no obligation to afford them any financial stipend because they are a separate institution - they are not a grant aided school.
This stipend came about because the college reached out to the ministry, asking for help and the ministry assisted them as a good will gesture from the government.
New Forestry Fines Nothing To Play With
A week ago we told you about the 47 year old Guinea Grass resident who had to pay a fine of over $22,000 for illegally harvesting Mahogany logs. Well if that penalty isn't steep enough for you, it can go significantly higher depending on the bust. That's reflected in the new amendment to the Forestry Act. In a release it states "With the logging season swiftly approaching, the Forest Department wishes to remind the public that any person found engaging in illegal logging will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law." The Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries today gave us an idea of just how hefty the fine for offenders can be.
Hon. Omar Figueroa:
"That SI was signed earlier this year, I think it was in January or February and I think we just caught some folks with logs and they were fined pretty hefty. I think it was about $22,000.00 for Mahogany that's been out of season of course."
COMPOL Asks Public To Help the Police
Earlier in the newscast, we showed you Police Commissioner Allen Whylie's first comments since his return to duty from two months leave.
He asked for the opportunity to make a plea to the general public to help them solve crimes. Often the police investigators struggle to find leads on major incidents such as murders, and they are convinced that someone in the public saw or heard something which can help them to look in the right direction.
The trouble is that these eyewitnesses refuse to come forward, and that causes investigation trails to go cold. The lack of public cooperation also prevents police from bringing charges against suspects because they have no evidence, even though they may believe that they have the right suspect.
So, the Commissioner is asking eyewitnesses to come forward and assist them when necessary. Here's his public plea:
Are The Police Pushing Away The Press (Again)?
Of course, a big part of that appealing to the public involves the media. But, the police have been giving that same media the cold shoulder recently.
In March of this year, the press and the police hammered out a working compromise where they would facilitate all requests for information, so that we could better inform the public.
The rule was that all requests for interviews from ranking police officers would be considered on a case by case basis by the Commissioner.
Well, for 2 exactly weeks now, the top brass have been consistently refusing all interview requests - in total about one dozen requests, all denied.
Senate Hearings Slog On
The Senate Inquiry into Immigration Irregularities continued today - with more from current Director of Immigration Diana Locke.
Director Locke is always forthright and provides full disclosure, but today's session turned into a real slog through administrative minutiae - with the Committee members going point by point through a checklist of shortcoming identified by the Auditor General.
It was about as fun as watching grass grow. Sparks didn't fly at all but we did get clarity on a few issues like this bogus entry stamps in circulation which are used to falsify entry dates into the country. We have footage courtesy the National Channel on CCV cable:
Director Says Biometric Data Lapse Can Be Fixed
We also got some clarity on the issue of biometric data. This should be in the system and should accompany every passport issued - but the database fell out of sync with the passports because of a computer software problem. Senator Lizarraga asked if the database will, or can ever be restored:
Mark Lizarraga - Senator, Private Sector:
"Director, in the absence of biometrics, so many instances where we did not take biometrics..."
Diana Locke - Director of Immigration and Nationality:
"We take the biometrics, we just can't match them against the database."
Mark Lizarraga:
"The auditor general has highlighted many instances where passports were issued without biometric checks. Am I correct?"
Immigration Director Makes A Plea To Public
And the Director also had some words for those members of the public who are fed up with the very difficult system of applying for passports at immigration. She says she hears your pain, but patience is a must:...
Diana Locke - Director of Immigration and Nationality:
"It's very frustrating to the public I must add because a lot of people come with what they've been accustomed to doing 10 years ago or 5 years ago and that's not the way it's done now. And so when you ask them to have it corrected they are highly upset, very abusive to our staff, insulting and we just have to continue to serve. We want things to be done right but we also need to do it right. It works both ways. The public needs to understand and there are very understanding members of the public and there are some that are not so understanding. And so I appeal to those persons to please understand where we are coming from and, in trying to correct these things that you are asking me to ensure that we are going to do, that they have a role to play, that they too must do their part. It works both ways."
Kendis Gibson Back In Belize to Work With Media and Inspire Kids
Kendis Gibson has been featured on this newscast many times before. He's the Belize City boy who's made a name for himself in the American media as a co-Anchor of ABC's America This Morning and World News Now.
Well, tonight, Kendis is back in Belize. He arrived this morning, a guest of the US Embassy as part of their Speaker Program, and will be doing short seminars on Investigative Journalism and Ethical Reporting.
But, he also has another mission - and that's to connect with young people from communities similar to the one where he grew up. And so, after eating a full plate of rice and beans at Bird's Isle, Gibson went to the Samuel Haynes Institute of Excellence to speak to a group of excited students. Sahar Vasquez was there:
Capital Cops Commander Rewarding Good Police Work
This afternoon, 7 police officers from the Belmopan Police Station were given a nod by their police bosses for the "above and beyond" duties they performed during the September Celebrations. September is one of the busiest months for law enforcement, and these cops excelled when it mattered most.
So, the Belmopan Commander felt it necessary to treat the 7 police constables under his command. He treated them to a meal at Scotchies in Belmopan with their boss, Police Commissioner Allen Whylie. We stopped by for the award ceremony, and here's what the commanders told us:
Tourism Stakeholders Get Together For Hurricane Relief
The Virgin Islands, Anguilla and Barbuda, Puerto Rico, and Dominica are a just a few of the Caribbean countries that were pummeled by Hurricanes Maria and Irma.
Many in these countries lost everything and are now forced to rebuild their homes from nothing.
Belize and other Caribbean countries have pitched in to help with the long road to recovery. BEL has sent linesmen to assist with electricity restoration in the US Virgin Islands, and now The Belize Tourism Board in Collaboration with Belize Tourism industry stakeholders has launched a "Dollar for the Caribbean Relief Fund Campaign". This morning the BTB along with the Belize Hotel Association and Belize Tourism Industry Association came together to explain:
A Garifuna Gala For the Karifuna
Tourism Industry stakeholders aren't the only Belizeans assisting with relief efforts. The National Garifuna Council is also pitching in. The council has pledged to donate $1000 to Dominica. Dominica holds a special place in their hearts because it is the home of the Kalinago people - who are indigenous inhabitants of the Lesser Antilles, and ancestral relatives of the Garifuna. About 3,000 of them currently live in Dominica and are suffering the effects of the hurricane. The council is holding a gala to help raise funds this weekend in Dangriga. Public Relations Officer Gwen Gonzalez told us how you can help.
Channel 5
Spanish Lookout Scotia Bank and Belmopan Taximan Robbed
There was a brazen heist at the Scotia Bank Branch in Spanish Lookout, Cayo. The same branch, which was hit seven years ago, is located immediately next to the police [...]
Burning Tires for High Gas Prices?
Early this morning, travel by commuters on the Haulover Bridge at the northern entrance of the City, was interrupted by a predawn bonfire that filled the air with thick black [...]
Steve Moss Charged in Bismark Shooting
Police have made a significant arrest in the murder of Daniel Anderson who was killed over the weekend.�� Late this afternoon, Steve Martin Moss, a twenty-three-year-old stevedore of Queen Charlotte [...]
Minor Charged for San Pedro Murder
A seventeen-year-old has been charged for the murder of eighteen-year-old Christian Contreras in San Pedro. As we reported on Tuesday night, two persons were in police custody, including a minor. [...]
Returning Police Commissioner to Look into Interview Impasse
Since the thirteenth of September, the press office of the Belize Police Department has failed to facilitate, according to media records, a single interview on any subject, including high profile [...]
The "Re-Purposing" of the G.S.U. Begins
The Gang Suppression Unit is apparently headed for a much narrower mandate within the Belize Police Department. This is after their run-in with Cameron Usher Senior and Kelvin Usher, which [...]
How Do You Solve a Problem like Police Corruption?
The Police Department is also tackling continuous egg on its face from officers breaking the law with impunity. Whether it is extorting members of the community, or stealing the proceeds [...]
At Senate, Headaches with Taximen and Queuing Continue
After four sessions, the Senate Special Select Committee finished its questioning of Director of Immigration Diana Locke this afternoon at the National Assembly. Among the first things discussed was the [...]
Look Out for Bogus Immigration Stamps
The Committee has been questioning Locke on how the department intends to implement certain recommendations of the Auditor General. While some are easier implemented than others, there are some recommendations [...]
Immigration Hooks Up with Interpol; What Happened to Nationality Committee?
Another important recommendation is the installation of background checks for persons applying for nationality. The Immigration Department, according to Director Diana Locke, is now at least partially linked to the [...]
ABC TV's Kendis Gibson Returns to Native Belize
Emmy award winning journalist Kendis Gibson is back in Belize. The Belizean-American ABC News Anchor is here courtesy of the US Embassy. He will visiting with different students to speak [...]
High Gas Prices Subject of Latest Protest
On Thursday morning at ten, weeks of frustration surrounding the ever-increasing cost of gas will blow up in what is intended to be a peaceful protest march from Constitution to [...]
Shop Argument Leads to Wounding Charge for Student
In the court of Chief Magistrate Sharon Fraser, twenty-three-year-old Adelma Maximo, a student at Gwen Lizarraga Evening School, was charged with wounding.� Maximo wanted to plead guilty with an explanation, [...]
Can ComPol Mediate Vidal-Williams Feud?
The simmering feud between Assistant Commissioner of Police Chester Williams, former head of Eastern Division South, and successor Senior Superintendent Marco Vidal reached boiling point earlier in September. Responding to [...]
Commissioner Not Ready to Step Down Yet
Commissioner of Police Allen Whylie says he is not quite fifty years old and has held his current job for nearly five years. �He politely disagreed with our position that [...]
Work Continues on Managing Shark Population
Back in 2012, a national shark working group was established to devise a national plan of action for the conservation and management of sharks. That plan now provides for a [...]
Forestry Combats Illegal Logging
Earlier this year, the Forestry Department announced the amendments for forest offences; those changes saw a significant increase in fines for forest related crimes. In light of the approaching logging [...]
T.D. Off Nicaragua Headed Belize's Way for Holiday Weekend
All eyes are on Tropical Depression Sixteen which has maximum sustained winds of thirty-five miles per hour and recently formed off the coast of Nicaragua where it is moving at [...]
Tourism Board Plans Relief Effort for Caribbean Partners
It has been weeks since hurricanes Maria and Irma devastated parts of the Caribbean whose economies depend heavily on the tourism dollar. Today, the Belize Tourism Board, in collaboration with [...]
LOVE FM
BTB launches "Dollar for the Caribbean Relief Fund Campaign"
It was in September that two category five hurricanes, Irma and Maria, ripped through several Caribbean countries leaving massive destruction in its wake. A number of people died while others were left homeless without food, electricity and water. In an effort to help these stricken countries, today, the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) officially launched a [�]
Steven Moss charged with the murder of Daniel Anderson
Twenty-three year old Steve Martin Moss, a construction worker of 7165 Queen Charlotte Street in Belize City, was charged with the murder of 31 year old Daniel Anderson when he appeared today before the Chief Magistrate, Sharon Fraser. Moss was also charged with 2 counts of attempted murder and 2 counts of use of deadly [�]
Commissioner of Police is back on the job
Commissioner of Police Allen Whylie is back in office after being out on vacation leave and on a long sick leave. In his absence, there have been a number of speculations that have surfaced and most surround his ability to continue as the head of the Department. Today he refuted those speculations and said he [�]
Police say: "Not boycotting the Media"
And while the commissioner has just returned to office, we inquired about the recent developments between the department and the media. Since the last week in September, the Department has refrained from granting any interviews to the media, despite repeated requests as we cover serious crime incidents across the country. That "radio silence" was most [�]
Erwin Rodriguez still missing, family concern
Seventeen year old Erwin Rodriguez is still missing. He was reported missing by his family who last saw him on August 24. His mother Sylvia Rodriguez says that they continue to search for the teenager and have been receiving some support from church members. Rodriguez says that others joined in the search on last Sunday, [�]
US Embassy will no longer handle Social Security inquiries
The US Embassy held its first Consul open house last Friday in an effort to reach out to some of its customers. The Embassy invited Representatives of the government offices, non-profit organizations, travel agencies, and internet cafes to the Consul. The Consul shared information and answered common queries and also looked at common mistakes made [�]
NEMO issues advisory on Tropical Depression 16
Tropical Depression 16 has formed off the coast of Nicaragua. NEMO has issued its first advisory and it reads, quote, "Tropical Depression Sixteen with maximum sustained winds of 35 miles per hour recently formed off the coast of Nicaragua. TD 16 is located at 12.2 North Latitude and 81.9 West Longitude. It is moving due [�]
Woman caught attempting to smuggle two Belizeans into the USA
Two Belizeans were arrested in Arizona, USA for Immigration offences. According to an article published by the Associated Press, Border Patrol officials say they've arrested a woman at an immigration checkpoint north of Tombstone after finding a Mexican man and two Belizeans in the trunk of her car. The article states that agents had referred [�]
Kirk Pitts walks free from charges
Forty year old Kirk Pitts, a barber of Antelope Street in Belize City, who was charged with possession of ammunition without a gun license and possession of less than one gram of cannabis, was freed of those charges when they were struck out today by the Chief Magistrate, Sharon Fraser, for want of prosecution. Pitts [�]
Broad daylight murder leaves community in shock
San Pedro Police are investigating the shooting death of 18 year old Christian Elisandro Contreras. He was fatally shot at around 11:30 this morning while at the corner of Laguna Drive and Conch Shell Street in the Boca Del Rio Area of San Pedro Town. He was shot twice to the chest, once to the [�]
Police seeking suspect for the murder of Sutherland
Belize City police are investigating the murder of 29 year old Dorian Sutherland who was shot about five o'clock on Monday evening. Sutherland, also known as "Sonny" was reportedly shot after he had an argument with someone still unidentified. Police, again, have not released much information on the case but have said that they have [�]
Anderson's killer still at large
Police are still looking for the man who killed thirty-three year old Daniel Anderson on Sunday, October 1. Investigators have identified the gunman but they have yet to make any arrest. Anderson was fatally shot to the back after a fight broke out at Bismark Club in Belize City. The shooter also injured twenty-seven year [�]
Sanitation workers received their salaries 3 days late
Yesterday, reports surfaced that employees the Belize City Council had not received their salaries for the end of September. According to the council's public relations officer quote, "The city council is definitely not in "financial trouble" and salaries have not been consistently deposited late. Employees have never received their pay after the 15th or ending [�]
HRCU says: "Could not pay CitCo workers on time because cheque was late"
Whose fault is it that the sanitation workers received their salaries three days late? Well the Belize City Council is not taking the blame and Holy Redeemer Credit Union is not accepting the fault either. HRCU was made aware of the matter by its member-owners and this evening the financial institution fired off a release [�]
Is Belize City Council facing financial problems?
Is the Belize City Council facing financial challenges? The Council's Public Relations Officer Shane Williams told the media quote, "the city council is definitely not in financial trouble and salaries have not been consistently deposited late." End of quote. According to Councilor and Mayoral aspirant, Dion Leslie, the council is going through its low season. [�]
Senator Smith's reaction to PM decision to allow Senate Hearings to continue
It was in mid-September, that Prime Minister Dean Barrow sent a letter to the clerk of the National Assembly, in which he stated that it was time to end the Senate Hearings. Barrow claimed that his administration was no longer, in a position, to financially support the Senate Hearings. This sparked reactions from many organizations, [�]
President of BNTU discusses demands that led to strike
The Belize National Teachers Union, BNTU, one of the biggest and strongest union in Belize, has been known to get the government's attention. It was a year ago, today, that the BNTU held a nationwide strike which lasted for 11 days. The purpose of the strike was to get the Government of Belize to commit [�]
BNTU launches documentary as a tribute to strike
The Belize National Teachers Union launched a documentary that featured highlights of last year's strike. President, Senator Elena Smith spoke to Love News. Elena Smith, BNTU President "Today is the first anniversary of our strike, the start of our 11 days last year and so we are starting our documentary today to remind the people [�]
Chamber advises GOB to create a fuel price formula
Last week Prime Minister Dean Barrow stated that fuel prices should decrease by mid-October. Today the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry, BCCI, welcomed the PM's public assurance. The BCCI says that with taxes comprising up to 43% of end prices to the consumer, Government is in the best position to manage pump prices for [�]
Is the high incidents of pink eye causing price gouging?
Conjunctivitis or pink eye is still on the rise and the price for pink eye related medication is as well. Last week, reports surfaced that several pharmacies across the country increased prices of pink eye medication in response to the spread of pink eye. Reports are that representatives from several pharmacies are informing customers that [�]
Breaking Belize News
BNTU writes PM Barrow for updates on demands made last year
Last October, the Belize National Teachers' Union (BNTU) presented Prime Minister Dean Barrow with a [�]
5 students receive scholarships from the PACT- UB Scholarship Program
Five students received scholarships valued at $50,000 to pursue bachelor's degrees as a result of [�]
Prime Minister's pick for Court of Appeal was center of investigation involving DEA
Franz Parke, the Jamaican attorney selected by the Prime Minister to serve as a judge on the [�]
Scotiabank issues statement on robbery today
Scotia Bank Belize issued a press release today informing the public that at about 9:20 [�]
Seven Belmopan officers awarded today
Today, seven police officers attached to the Belmopan Police formation were awarded for their great [�]
Bridge in Santa Teresita collapses
On Monday morning, farmers from Santa Teresita were coming out of their village as per [�]
Stevedore charged for murder of Delbert Anderson
Today, police formally arrested and charged, Steve Martin Moss, 23, a stevedore of Belize City, [�]
BNTU waiting on update from PM
Yesterday, the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) launched a documentary of its 11-day strike last [�]
Salaries delayed for sanitation workers; CitCo and HRCU play blame game
Sanitation workers of the Belize City Council were delayed in getting their end of September [�]
Three masked men hijack taxi man; rob Scotiabank
By Zoila Palma:According to confirmed reports, Oscar Cordon, a 62 year old taximan from Belmopan, reported that he [�]
Kendis' fun filled Agenda
By Zoila Palma: ABC Journalist and News Anchor, Kendis Gibson arrives in Belize today. Gibson will be in [�]
Forest Department enforces new amendments for Forest Offenses
The Forest Department today announced that with the logging season swiftly approaching, the department is [�]
NEMO issues advisory on Tropical depression
NEMO in collaboration with the National Meteorological Service hereby informs the general public that Tropical Depression [�]
Attempted robbery at Scotia Bank in Spanish Lookout
BBN has received confirmed reports about an attempted robbery at the Scotia Bank Branch in Spanish [�]
Tropical depression sixteen forms in Caribbean; warnings issued for parts of Central America
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued an advisory on the formation of tropical depression sixteen. [�]
Tropical depression forms in the Caribbean
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is closely monitoring Invest 90L in the Atlantic. The Mexican Meteorological [�]
Lyndon Lewis re-arrested for the murder of Bullet Tree man
ew Yesterday, BBN reported that Lyndon Lewis received bail of $3000 for the charge of 'conspiracy [�]
Burning tires block Haulover Bridge this morning
BBN received confirmed reports of tires burning on Haulover Bridge in Belize City this morning. [�]
Chamber welcomes PM's comments on gas prices, calls for crack down on tax evaders
The Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), in a release this evening, welcomed Prime [�]
Belizean Smiles - Romeo Kotch
There are many bartenders in Belize who can manage to capture your heart (and liver). One of those talented mixologists is Romeo Kotch, who hails from Benque Viejo Del Carmen, in the Cayo District.
You're not supposed to play favorites, seeing as every bartender works hard to serve your beverage of choice, but I really genuinely have mad love for Romeo. It could be the fact that he has looked out for us every time we go to his workplace (El Divino at Banana Beach), or that he has given me solid advice to stay safe - especially with which cab to take in the late hours of night.
International Sources
Tropical Depression 16 Forms in the SW Caribbean
Tropical Depression 16 has formed in the SW Caribbean on Wednesday morning. This depression will slowly organize over the next few days as it drifts northward toward Belize and the Yucatan Peninsula before emerging in the Gulf by this weekend.
Conditions are favorable for slow organization over the next few days. The latest NHC forecast track brings the storm toward the FL Panhandle coast as a Cat 1 hurricane by Sunday afternoon. The latest computer model forecasts bring the storm northward into the Gulf this weekend with potential landfall points from Louisiana to the Florida Big Bend.
Tropical Storm Nate on verge of developing in western Caribbean
Tropical Depression 16 has formed just southeast of the Atlantic coast of Nicaragua as of late Wednesday morning, and it may rapidly develop into a tropical storm or hurricane then threaten the central to northeastern Gulf of Mexico coast this weekend.
Because of the proximity to land in Central America, people may have little time to react and prepare for a tropical storm or hurricane.
The tropical depression may evolve into a tropical storm at any time as it wanders toward the north-northwest and near the Yucatan Peninsula into Friday.
Belize to create world's first ray sanctuary
The government of Belize today announced the establishment of the first-ever nationwide ray sanctuary, motivated, in part, by data from Global FinPrint scientists at FIU.
Globally, rays are threatened with extinction due largely to overfishing, habitat loss and climate change. They are even more at risk than sharks. More than 20 species of rays are known to populate the waters along Belize.
As part of Global FinPrint, FIU researchers have deployed baited remote underwater videos (BRUVs) to monitor the abundance and distribution of sharks and rays, hoping to fill critical data gaps and guide conservation strategies throughout the world. While combing through hundreds of hours of video footage to inform Belize's National Plan of Action for sharks, scientists found thriving populations of rays. Global FinPrint researcher and FIU Ph.D. student Kathryn Flowers shared the find with officials from the Belize Fisheries Department.
Community mourns charter captain Richard Benson
Friends and family of longtime St. John charter captain Richard Benson are mourning his death after his body was found in the British Virgin Islands.
Linda Worthington, Benson's ex-wife, said in an email from her home in Belize that "there has been an outpouring of compassion and love from so many people that loved Richard."
It's thought that Benson left St. John on his 84-foot wooden charter yacht, the Goddess Athena, in an effort to outrun Hurricane Irma. Friends and family from around the world posted messages online hoping that he would be found safe, but his body was recently located and the Goddess Athena remains missing.
Garifuna Dance: Flavor, Culture and History
I had never before danced any of the Caribbean dances with the discipline and awareness they deserve. Maybe I've improvised a crazy, spontaneous version of the Palo de Mayo (Caribbean Maypole Dance) at some party, but never with the spiritual connotation which this culture imbues in its dances.
My colleagues at the Niu web-zine challenged me to attend a three-hour workshop in Garifuna Dance. I accepted, and off I went to dance with my "ancestors" and to get to know a different world that exists within our geographic limits, but which I was unaware of.
When I arrived at the Spanish Cultural Center in Nicaragua, the place where the workshop would be held, I ran into some 25 people who were willing, like me, to participate in the workshop. That was my first surprise.
10 Best Beach Resorts in Belize
Looking for Belize hotels? Here are the best beach resorts in Ambergris Caye, Hopkins and Placencia.. With stunning beaches, some of the Caribbean's best snorkeling (Belize is home to the world's second-largest reef), and easy direct flights from the U.S., it's no wonder that Belize's beauty is no longer a secret. Bonus: English is the official language. Here are the best beach resorts on Belize's islands and seaside towns.
AmbergrisCaye.com 
