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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
2017 Police Statistics show a decrease in major crimes countrywide
The Belize Police Department has released the official crime statistics for 2017. Figures show that while major crimes experienced a decrease of 6.8% countrywide, there was an increase in homicides. Overall, 1,992 crimes were reported to the police department across the country. San Pedro Town recorded a total of 100 major crimes, with a decrease of 38%, compared to 2016.
2017 registered 142 homicides total, four more than in 2016. The official report also showed a decrease in arrests made for murder crimes, with only 54 arrests reported countrywide, nine arrests less than in the previous year. San Pedro reported eight fatalities in 2017, the same as 2016 and 2015.
Kevin Urbina is the Grand Champion of Estel’s 7th annual BBQ cook-off
Hundreds of island residents and visitors enjoyed finger-licking BBQ at Estel’s Dine by the Sea’s 7th Annual BBQ Cook-off Tournament held on Tuesday, January 30th. This year’s competition featured nine grill masters, including: Ali Rush, Charles Worthington, Rick Saager, Amy Knox, Keith, Palapa Bar& Grill, Jim Gochenour, Sergio, and Kevin Urbina. The annual competition is also a means ofraising funds for the Sunshine Scholarship Foundation in San Pedro Town. With approximately 195 tickets sold, attendees not only enjoyed an amazing BBQ lunch but also live musical performances and special drinks. 50/50 raffles took place to raise more funds, and some winners generously donated their prize money right back to the Foundation.
Belize Defence Force welcomes new commander on its 40th anniversary
The Belize Defence Force (BDF) celebrated its 40th anniversary with military ceremonies and displays, along with an open day fair for the public at their headquarters in Ladyville north of Belize City. The celebration began on Friday, January 26th with an official ceremony that saw the swearing in of a new BDF Commander and the graduation of 89 new soldiers. The following day, an all-day fair welcomed civilians into the military complex for a fun-filled event with military exhibits, live music, entertainment and of course lots to eat and drink.
The formalities of the occasion started on Friday afternoon, as newly promoted Brigadier General, Steven Ortega became the eighth commander of the Force. He took over from retired Brigadier General David Jones who held the post since 2013. Thereafter, the military top brass was joined by proud families in the graduation ceremony of a new group of soldiers that have been training for the past four months.
Developer north of San Pedro Town removes illegal beach fence after public complaints
Residents from a subdivision along the beach north of San Pedro Town are relieved that a fence used to obstruct vehicle passage on the beach for quite some time was removed on Wednesday, January 31st. They claim that the fence, which extended to the shoreline was erected by one of their neighbors, who is a developer in the area. The residents stated that because there is no designated access to the main road in their area they have no choice but to drive through the beach to access their homes. The presence of the fence became a frustrating inconvenience and those affected denounced the illegal move by the developer in blocking national land (beaches), which should remain accessible to everyone. They claim the developer initially did not consider its removal, but after being confronted with the facts of breaching the public land law, the fence was immediately reduced to accommodate the 66 feet required by law between any beach property and the water level.
Ambergris Today
Two Guatemalan Fishermen Caught Fishing Illegally In Southern Belize
Park Rangers of the Toledo Institute for Development and Environment (TIDE) along with personnel of the Belize Coast Guard arrested two Guatemalans who were fishing illegally near the Rio Grande in Southern Belize. The fishermen tried to escape, but the patrol team was equipped and motivated to apprehend them. The two fishers had no documents for fishing in Belize and fished with illegal fishing gear with the marine reserve (over 2 miles of long lines with 400 hooks in water and additional long lines with 413 hooks in their possession).
Misc Belizean Sources
Ministry of Agriculture Launches Project on “Developing and Enhancing of Small Scale Agro-processing Capacity in Belize”
On January 30th, 2018, the Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) held a small opening ceremony for the launching of a Technical Capacity Project in “Developing and Enhancing of Small Scale Agro-processing Capacity in Belize”. The ceremony was held in Belmopan at the Ministry of Agriculture Showgrounds Conference Room. The project objectives aim to:
Improve small-scale agro-processing in Belize;
Formulate a National Agro-processing Plan that will be able to coordinate quality products for markets locally and internationally;...
Blind date with a book! Corozal Public Library
We've stepped into the Month of Love! For the Month of February we are inviting the public to come to the library and pick a DATE...! See you there!
Consejo Village Council Free Medical Clinic
FREE Medical Services and medicine for everyone at Consejo Village, Corozal this Sunday, February 4th from 8:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.
San Pedro: Section of Sea Grape Drive Closed Saturday 4pm-6pm
Drivers are advised that tomorrow Saturday, a section of sea grape drive will be closed, from the gas station south to hurricane st (Taste of Thailand ) from 4pm to 6pm. Thank you.
NICH Lecture at St Hilda's Anglican School in Georgeville
This morning adventure.
A few students got the experience of wearing an authentic jade necklace for answering questions.
Image may contain: 2 people, people smiling, people standing and indoor
Inauguration of Dr. Carissa F. Etienne as Director of Pan American Health Organization
Minister of Health Hon. Pablo Marin was present at the official ceremony to inaugurate Dr. Carissa F. Etienne as Director of the Pan American Health Organization and Regional Director for the Americas of the World Health Organization (WHO) for a second term. Dr. Etienne officially began her second term of five years today.
Minister Marin, on behalf of the Government and people of Belize, assured Dr. Etienne of our continued partnership and commitment to advance health for all in our region.
STRENGTHENING BELIZE’S OIL SPILL RESPONSE CAPABILITIES
Representatives from various Government and Non-Governmental Organizations, Private Sector,and Academia associated with Disaster Risk Management and Oil Spill Response will meet at the
Belize Biltmore Plaza Hotel, Belize City on 5th & 6th February 2018, as part of the national consultation process to review and make recommendations to improve a Working Draft of the
National Oil Spill Contingency Plan.
The Department of the Environment (DOE) within the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries,and Environment & Sustainable Development, and Immigration (MAFFESDI) commenced
implementation of the Consultancy to Update and Align the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan of Belize (NOSCP) in August of last year. The overall objective is to strengthen prevention,
preparedness and coordinated emergency response nationally for an oil spill event in terrestrial,aquatic and marine environment, and align the plan to meet international standards for Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Co-operation (OPRC).
Ministry of Health issues first list of 'Over the Counter' Medications for General Use
As part of the ongoing changes to the Food and Drug Regulations, the Ministry of Health is sharing a 'first list' of Over the Counter Medications that can be sold at your neighborhood supermarket. Note that this is a 'first list' that will be changing based on continuous review by the Director of Health Services.
BELIZE COAST GUARD
OFFICER SELECTION BOARD
13th & 14th February 2018
The Belize Coast Guard will be holding an Officer Selection Board on the 13th & 14th February 2018 to select potential candidates to attend the Mexican Naval Academy entering summer 2018. Candidates must be a citizen of Belize between the ages of 17 – 20, the individual must be unmarried, fluent in Spanish and have no tattoo.
The Officer Selection Board will comprise of the following:
a. Coast Guard Personal Fitness Test – This includes a push-up test, sit up test, pull up test and a timed two miles run
b. Basic swim test – candidates will be required to tread water for two minutes then swim 200 meters
c. General Knowledge Test...
Koko King Movie Night
It's been a long and rainy week - let's hope it stays dry for tonight as 2 of my favorites are on show - 'Honey I Shrunk the Kids' and 'Ferris Beuler's Day Off' - come and enjoy with your family!!!
Beach cleanup on Caye Caulker
The sun is back, and Oceana has rescheduled the Beach CleanUp for this Sunday. Everybody welcome!
Looking for a Bakery in Corozal?
Need something to snack on while paying bills? Or, just buy to eat for dinner? Belize Scoop Page have confirmed Today Febraury 2, 2018 PANADERIA DON CHAPARRO reopened on 4th Avenue next to Western Union. There space is bigger to have better equipement to make there breads better. More space to give better service to Corozal, Corozal, Belize people. Different types of sweet bread is made, cheese bread, salt bread, cinnammon bread @ lots more.
Note to Corozal entrepreneurs and farmers
Do business with Panamanian exporters during the round table event at #EXPOCOMER 2018, the most important trade exhibition in Central America and the Caribbean with +30 participating countries. We offer a semi hosted program for international importers. Contact us for more information.
Valentine Bash at CWC
The SISE Town Council is having a Valentine Bash at the Cayo Welcome Center on Friday, February 16th. Grupo Jade will be performing.
Belize Mountain Bike Ride 2018
Mountain bikes have arrived to Belize for the Belize Mountain Bike Ride 2018. Start date: 4th February. End date: 10th February at Las Cuevas
Research Station, Chiquibul.
Regional Chiefs of Mission Meeting
Yesterday in Mexico, Secretary Tillerson hosted a Regional Chiefs of Mission Meeting. Chargé d’Affaires Adrienne Galanek proudly represented U.S. Embassy Belize!
Belizean delegation to the United States
Under Secretary Shannon was honored to host the distinguished Belizean delegation to the United States, which included Foreign Minister Elrington, Ambassadors Gutierez and Rosado, CEO Andrews, Senator Courtenay, and Director International Affairs Ayesha Borland. Discussions focused on the importance of peacefully of resolving the Belize-Guatemala border issue.
US Under Secretary of State meets Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington
Under Secretary of State Tom Shannon enjoyed meeting with Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington on January 30 to discuss the strong U.S.-Belizean relationship. The United States welcomes the productive discussions at the OAS and the upcoming referenda on the Belize-Guatemalan border issue. We strongly support such efforts to secure a lasting, peaceful solution to the dispute.
The Hokeb Ha Vase
The Hokeb Ha Vase became the logo for the Institute of Archaeology. It was discovered in 1973 inside the Hokeb Ha Cave in Toledo. It features two young Lord's in conversation, but what they are talking about still remains a mystery. It will be displayed at the Milwaukee Public Museum for the Maya Hidden World's Revealed exhibit, which opens on February 10, 2018.
Oil Spill Workshop
Due to several calls and messages of concern, please note that the Oil Spill Workshop being coordinated by the Department of Environment next week is to address the national response (capacity) to handle incidents at land and sea. The marine incident scenarios include incidents of ship collision (with other ships as well as the Belize Barrier Reef); the exportation of crude (from the onshore production) as well as the importation of refined fuel products, all of which can result in devastating pollution. Offshore oil exploration and extraction is not on the agenda given the passage of the offshore oil moratorium legislation, which became law on December 30th 2017. We thank you for your vigilance and commit to updating you in this regard. Oceana will be one of the observers at the workshop on February 5th-6th. Our collective leadership and continued vigilance will ensure the stability and sustainability of our collective future.
Channel 7
Political Friction Leads to Fight In Cayo
It seems the municipal election fever has political operatives a little hot-blooded - 18 year old PUP supporter Michael Lemus claims San Ignacio UDP Mayor Earl Trapp and his councilors beat him up pretty badly yesterday evening. Lemus' account is that at 6:15 he and a relative drove past Trapp and his team on their campaign trail. According to Lemus, he proclaimed his support for the PUP and Trapp and his team dragged him out of the vehicle and beat him up. Here is a phone interview with Lemus' mother.
Voice of: Aranelly Lemus, mother:
"What he told me was that Trapp and the councilors attacked him."
Reporter:
"Did he say why they attacked him, if this is the case?"
Voice of: Aranelly Lemus, mother:
"He told me he shouted 'PUP got my back, they will win', and right there the problem started."
Attorney For Extradition Back To Court
2 weeks ago, we showed you the arraignment of Andrew Bennett, who becomes the first Belizean attorney to face extradition to the United States. They want him to stand trial in the District of Puerto Rico for 7 counts of money laundering.
At the last hearing, the issue was whether he should be granted bail while the Chief Magistrate reviews the documents, to decide whether or not he should be extradited.
This morning the case went back before Chief Magistrate Sharon Frazer, and this time it was all about the preliminary formalities. Solicitor General Nigel Hawke is trying to ensure that the extradition procedure is followed to the letter of the Extradition Act and treaty with the United States.
Church Pulls a Disappearing Act in UNIBAM Appeal
It's been a little over a 1 year and 5 months since Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin delivered the landmark ruling in the Caleb Orozco/UNIBAM case, legalizing gay sex between consenting adults. But, an appeal of the judgment is still pending.
Viewers will remember that there was an outburst of negative reactions to the decision, with the loudest protests coming from the churches. They pushed Government to appeal, asserting that they would seek to overturn the ruling. But, tonight, the news is that the appeal case could take place without them.
First, the Evangelicals wanted to enter the case as interested parties, but because they were not a part of the case at its inception, they were unable to participate. So, the substantive appeal of the Section 53 judgment, which has the possibility of overturning the Chief Justice's decision completely, fell to the Catholic Church.
Alleged Killer Wilmar Was A Juvenile Criminal
All week we've been reporting on 20 year old Wilmer Escobar, the Bella Vista resident accused of killing the "Oh" sisters - mercilessly chopping them to death.
Well, it turns out that he's also Wilmar Guzman - who's been in trouble with the law since he was a teenager. A check in our archives shows that when he was 16 years old and living in San Juan, Stann Creek - he was sentenced to serve 6 month at the Wagner Youth facility for theft. That was in 2013. But, he escaped by scaling the facility's fence during a shift changeover. He was recaptured and served his time.
Sometime after that he moved to Bella Vista - and on the night of Sunday January 21st he allegedly met the sisters Cresencia and Josephine and chopped them to death. He is also believed to have raped them. Police have strong evidence against him - including a confession and items stolen from the girls - as well as scratches on his face and neck.
Security Guard Remanded For Stabbing Another Security Guard
Last night we told you about 34-year-old Kenrick Valencio, the security guard who was stabbed in front of the Novelo's Bus Terminal early on Thursday morning.
Today, the man accused of stabbing him - another security guard named John Brackett was charged for Attempted Murder. Magistrate Michelle Trapp read the charge which alleged that the 49 year old Brackett attempted to murder Valencio with the use of a deadly weapon.
No plea was taken, but Magistrate Trapp asked him if he had any special reasons why he should be granted bail. He asked the court to consider that he is a diabetic, and that he is also a dedicated father who works hard and has a job as the sole provider for his family.
Wetlands Are a Wondrous Thing
"Wetlands for a Sustainable Urban Future" is the theme at this year's World Wetlands Day. The special day was celebrated in Belize at one of the country's most celebrated wetlands in Crooked Tree.
But, not only a wetland - it was an opportunity to forge a truce between the conservationists and the community. Sahar Vasquez found out more.
Today residents of Crooked Tree and members of the conservation community gathered in a small classroom in Crooked Tree to celebrate World Wetlands Day. Wetlands are not generally something you will fund on a tourist brochure or a bucket list, but they do hold great importance in protecting Belize from flood waters, and that was the idea behind today's ceremony.
Man Accused of Aggravated Assault While facing Murder Charge
Nelson Henry got off a murder charge last week Wednesday, and in only 9 days time, he was back before the court today for unlawful imprisonment and aggravated assault charges.
The alleged victims, who are 2 young boys, say that on Monday, January 14, Henry and others broke into their home in Burrell Boom Village, and held them against their will. The victims say that in the home invasion, Henry and the alleged accomplices then stole a few kitchen knives and 2 machetes, all to a total value of $45.
You may be wondering how it is that Henry is accused of committing a crime while he was still accused of murder. Well, Henry was out on bail since September 2017, when the prosecution's murder case against him started falling apart.
Dion Would Not Do Double Duty Like Darrell
Yesterday, we showed you the UDP's manifesto launch for its Belize City slate.
But one burning question we had for the man at the head of that slate is what kind of Mayor he'll be. His predecessor Darrrell Bradley was a part -time mayor who juggled his time between his private law office and the Mayor's office. The voters seemed just fine with it - since we had brought it to light early in his first term - and he was easily elected for a second term.
So we asked Dion Leslie, if elected, whether he will also be juggling between his private family business at Leslie's Imports - and the Mayor's office. Here's what he said:...
No Saving Wooden Home In Santa Elena
There was nothing the San Ignacio Fire Department could do to save a wooden house that caught fire early this morning. It happened at around 4:30 in the Santa Cruz area when the 500 square foot structure was completely destroyed. It was the residence of a market vendor. Initial assessments say that the blaze may have originated from an electrical source.
Coffins, Skeletal Remains In The Sea
7News has obtained an unusual video. It is reportedly captured in this area - about 5 miles due north of Ladyville along the Belize District coastline.
As first reported in the Guardian newspaper, It shows 7 coffins along with skeletal remains in shallow waters in an area known as Little Rocky Point. Apparently, the property owner had gone for some water recreation when he came upon the disturbing sight.
When we called the Department of Archeology they say they are looking for the area but have not found it yet. They do plan to investigate it and determine the origins of the coffins.
The area is known to have significant historical sites - but we note that. We'll tell you when the Institute of Archeology does find out something.
Mexico Wants Belizean Beef
Belize and Mexico continue to share good neighborly relations - and as you heard the Ambassador say last night - Belizeans spend tens of millions of dollars in Chetumal annually. But the trade relationship is imbalanced because Belize - historically - has had a hard time exporting legally into Mexico. Now, there's a whole lot of illegal cigarettes and cattle going into that country from Belize - but doing it the right way has proved challenging. That is the subject of a partial scope trade agreement that's been on the negotiating table for many years.
Yesterday, the Mexican Ambassador told the media that Mexico wants Belize's beef:...
Measles Not Here So Why The Scare?
Earlier this week the Ministry of Health put out a public information notice on measles - after a single case appeared in Guatemala. It could pose a threat to Belize - but even the CEO in the Ministry of Health said the chance of that is remote:...
Dr. Ramon Figueroa - CEO. Ministry of Health:
"We have not had a measles I think since 1991. So for us it's mostly trying to keep an infectious disease out of the country. Remember that measles while we grew up getting measles and all the other vaccines preventable diseases, there are some potential risk associated with measles, encephalitis - they are rare but they can happen. It's mostly public health reaction so it's best to prevent, if you can, the introduction of an infectious disease back into the country."
Virulent Strain of Flu Not In Belize
Figueroa also commented on the status the seasonal flu in Belize. It's typical of this time of year - but it's newsworthy right now because in the states - an especially strong flu has killed 53 children. That's the H3N2 strain - which Figueroa says did make only a single appearance in Belize:...
Dr. Ramon Figueroa, CEO, Ministry of Health:
"Late last year we had actually a group from the Ministry of Health and the Karl Heusner meet because it was being reported that we had an excessive amount of cases, of virulent cases at the KHMH."
"We had had a report of an H3N2 strain sometime in February last year and we had a case that was exposed to the US, came to Belize ended up at KHMH and died. Again as things have it I think we didn't follow proper procedure in terms of sampling we are still investigating the case I think part of CDC's role right now will be to follow up on that case."
TB Detection, Not Incidence Up
We also asked Figueroa about the prevalence of tuberculosis in persons with HIV, or living with AIDS. There are reports of an increased number of TB related deaths. TB is known to be especially deadly in persons who have an impaired immune system.
Dr. Figueroa says it's not that there are more cases of TB - just that there is a greater rate of detection:
Jules Vasquez:
"Is there any rise in the number of TB cases related to HIV infection?"
Dr. Ramon Figueroa, CEO, Ministry of Health: "Rise, I think we have been detecting more cases. I wouldn't say it's a rise. Remember now we also have the capability for quick diagnosis through equipment now that we have the gene expert - that we have procured and distributed in some of the region. So we have a better diagnostic capability. I wouldn't say we have an increase in the numbers. I think we have been detecting more cases."
Public Dialysis Continues
And, lastly, we asked Figueroa about the state of dialysis machines in the public healthcare system. We know that over the years the present machines have depreciated significantly- even as the number of persons with end stage renal failure continues to climb. Figueroa says the Taiwanese are helping with technical support - and dialysis machines should continue to be available at public facilities:
Dr. Ramon Figueroa, CEO, Ministry of Health:
"We just did an assessment with the help of the Taiwanese. We have an ongoing kidney project [Renal Project] and we got some expert to come in and do an assessment of both the KHMH and the Loma Luz services being provided and compare in terms of qualities. We were pleasantly supplied that the qualities between both of them however, yes through the government subsidies that has been given to Karl Heuser and Loma Luz. We only have spots for 15 and we know we have a long waiting list.."
Battle For The Basketball Soul Of The City
And, finally, tonight, there is a battle for the basketball soul of Belize City. We know all about the Belize Hurricanes - but now, a new franchise, the Belize Defenders wants to take away their crowns as Kings of the City.
The Defenders play their opening game tonight at the SCA Auditorium against the Orange Walk Running Rebels. The team manager had some serious trash talk for his cross town rivals today:..
The Hurricanes and the Defenders will meet later in the season to settle the battle for city supremacy on the court. It was to have been the first game of the season but it got rained out.
Channel 5
Cayo Mayor Vs P.U.P. Supporter: Mischief or ‘Chance’?
As the March seventh elections draw closer, temperatures are running high in Cayo where the two political parties are clashing and violence is emerging. On Thursday evening, a young man [...]
Foreign Affairs Says Andrew Bennett Extradition Docs Legit
This morning in the Chief Magistrate’s Court, a U.S. request for the extradition of attorney Andrew Bennett got underway. The extradition request contains seven counts of money laundering and conspiracy [...]
The Section 53 Appeal: Are Catholics Out?
Could the Government of Belize end up going it alone in the upcoming appeal of the August tenth, 2016 judgment of Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin regarding the amendment of Section [...]
John Brackett Jailed for Revenge Attack on Security Guard
Forty-nine-year-old construction worker John Brackett of Prince Street, Belize City, is behind bars tonight. Brackett is accused of the attempted murder by stabbing of thirty-four-year-old security guard Kenrick Valencio, of [...]
Teen Love Triangle Leaves 1 Injured, 1 Imprisoned
Another case of attempted murder was heard in the Magistrate’s Court. Eighteen-year-old Elroy Williams from Lords’ Bank is accused of attacking Michael Jones with a two-by-four board on January thirty-first. [...]
4 Charged in Home Invasion, including Former Murder Suspect
A total of four persons have now been arraigned for a reported home invasion in the village of Burrell Boom, involving a woman whose house was invaded and two men [...]
Bel-Am Denea Joseph’s DACA Dreams
Earlier this week we told you about the Belizean who attended the State of the Union Address. It wasn’t a diplomat or a highly politically connected person – it was [...]
Fire Destroys Santa Elena Home
A fruit and vegetables vendor at the San Ignacio Market is tonight without a roof over her head after a fire gutted her elevated wooden home this morning in the [...]
Tour Operators from Fort George Unite
We have been continuously chronicling issues regarding the tour operators, guides and other workers in the Fort George Tourism Zone for some years now. Often we are called out to [...]
Mexico Reiterates Support for I.C.J. Resolution of Dispute
Mexico was one of the thirteen countries at Wednesday’s meeting of the Permanent Council of the Organization of American States which supported Belize and Guatemala during their appearance there. Both [...]
Tackling Gangs and Crime at Mexico-Belize Border
Mexico continues to count the cost of the ongoing drug war in which thousands have been killed over the years. While the annual murder rate is much smaller than Belize, [...]
The Good Will Not Suffer with the Bad in Mexican Travel
Mexicans are not alone in engaging in criminality. Witness Robert Gentle, who was recently caught driving a Lincoln Navigator over the border in which cocaine was found. He tried to [...]
Cities and Towns Doing More for Themselves
Belize’s two cities and seven towns have been clamoring for greater autonomy. Belize City, under Darrell Bradley’s leadership, led the way with the installment of the twenty-million dollar municipal bond [...]
Faber Tells Election Contenders, ‘Go Home!’
Since 2006, the United Democratic Party has, with few exceptions, been the political party in control of both central and municipal governments. The Opposition People’s United Party has held on [...]
CitCo Workers to Get Insurance
With only a few weeks to go before his tenure at City Hall comes to a close, Mayor Darrell Bradley has been announcing a number of incentives for the staff [...]
Protecting Wetland Sanctuary in Crooked Tree
Every year since 1998, Belize has been celebrating World Wetlands Day, but even before that, in 1984, Crooked Tree was designated as a wildlife sanctuary. Crooked Tree is a waterfowl [...]
Audubon on the Comeback Trail
Back in May of 2017, the Audubon office in the village of Crooked Tree was burnt down in a case of arson. It is speculated that the crime was as [...]
Play Ball! City Defenders Vs O.W. at S.C.A.
The Belize City Defenders, formerly the No Limit, play their inaugural game tonight at the SCA Auditorium in Belize City. The team has undergone a complete transformation since changing ownership [...]
LOVE FM
Peace walk in memory of slain sisters to be held this weekend
Paul Mahung reporting… An event entitled Walk for Justice and Call for Peace in Toledo Communities will be held this weekend in the Toledo District. The event is a result of the recent gruesome murder of nineteen year old Cresencia and her seventeen year old sister Josephine Oh. The community level event will begin in …
Ladyville man to stand trial for sex offences
At a preliminary inquiry that was held yesterday before Chief Magistrate Sharon Fraser, without any consideration of the evidence, 21 year old Abel Lara, a resident of Ladyville charged with unlawful sexual intercourse, was committed to stand trial in the next session of the Supreme Court, which will commence on April 3. The incident occurred in …
US couple assists residents of More Tomorrow Village
Fem Cruz reporting… “Janae Wetherington from Shea Mission, Georgia USA is here at More Tomorrow Government School on a mission for Christ handing out food items. Wetherington spoke to Love News about how this vision came about. Janae Wetherington “We started six years ago coming to More Tomorrow and fell in love with the children, …
Punta Gorda Police continues its outreach to the community
Paul Mahung reporting… “Personnel of Punta Gorda Police Formation made a generous presentation yesterday to a family in Toledo. The presentation of a food hamper was done by WPC Aretha Gordon of Punta Gorda Community Policing Unit on behalf of Toledo Police Formation. Aretha Gordon “After viewing news clips from PG TV a few weeks …
Prime Minister hopes CCJ upholds Court of Appeal’s decision on CLICO case
In an interview on Thursday Prime Minister Dean Barrow commented on the Colonial Life Insurance Company, CLICO case before the Caribbean Court of Justice. CLICO had sued government for four million dollars after closing its doors in 2009. The contention is that the 54 CLICO policy holders were not paid compensation, which is reported …
Belize securing accreditation for educational institutions
The Ministry of Education is working towards instituting proper accreditation of tertiary level institutions and Universities in the country. Deryck Satchwell, Deputy Director for Tertiary and Post-secondary Education Services in the Ministry says that up to now, there is no accreditation system in Belize. Institutions are licensed to operate by the Ministry of Education and …
Inmates graduate from Rehabilitation Program at the Central Prison
The Kolbe Foundation saw the first graduation of its newest program, the Remand Rehab Center. The program focuses on rehabilitating inmates who are on remand for more than a year. It is a program which inmates voluntarily subscribe to. Virgilio Murillo, CEO at the Kolbe Foundation says that the first course saw 32 inmates graduating. …
New Tour Guide Association seeks betterment for membership
The Belize City Tourism Zone Operator and Workers Association is a relatively new group. Vice President Jimmy Robinson says they have been functional for about a year now and represent tour operators, tour guides, vendors, and braiders. The Association held a meeting today in Belize City to listen to the concerns of its membership and …
Love FM’s Karen Koote talks about her love for Love
Tonight, as we countdown to the 25th anniversary of Love FM we once again take a look at the experience of one of the company’s long-standing employees. Tonight we hear from one of Belize’s favorite radio announcers, Karen Koote. She has been with the Love family for nineteen years. She shares her story and her …
Alleged brawl between San Ignacio Mayor and PUP supporter
We are thirty-three days away from the municipal elections and both major political parties have been aggressively attempting to convince voters to cast ballots in their favor. Yesterday things got too aggressive in San Ignacio Town between rival political party members. At around 6 o’clock incumbent Mayor of the twin towns Earl Trapp was on …
Anti-Gay Preacher banned from Jamaica
Steven Anderson is a preacher from the US and he is known for his anti-gay lectures. However, recently he is known as the preacher who the Jamaican Government banned from entering their country. The controversial pastor is considered a hate preacher because of his comments on several issues, including the 2016 shooting of 49 people inside the Pulse gay nightclub in Orland, Florida. He has also been accused of calling for the execution of gays by stoning, and has asserted that women should not work, lead in church or dress how they want.
Catholic Church loses attorney for Section 53 appeal case
On Wednesday Executive Director for United Belize Advocacy Movement (UNIBAM),Caleb Orozco, along with his attorneys appeared before the Justices of the Court of Appeal. In 2016 the Supreme Court ruled that Section 53 of the Constitution of Belize was unconstitutional. The ruling was appealed by the Catholic Church of Belize as an interested party and the Attorney General’s Office appealed a particular section of the ruling. According to Orozco, a date for substantive arguments was expected to be set.
Andrew Bennett’s extradition request laid before the court
Attorney Andrew Bennett, who is wanted by the US Government, appeared before Chief Magistrate Sharon Fraser along with his attorney Anthony Sylvestre this morning. The US has requested for Bennett to be extradited to the US territory of Puerto Rico where he is wanted for money laundering charges, allegations which Bennett denies. Today in court, the extradition file was laid before the court and Foreign Service Officer in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Jenina Urbina, testified. Urbina told the court that she received the extradition file while she was assigned to the US desk.
Belmopan resident fined 10K for 79.5 grams of weed
A man has been ordered to pay ten thousand dollars after being arrested for drug trafficking. If twenty eight year old Mateo Gonzalez does not pay they amount he will spend three years behind bars. Earlier this week, police searched Gonzalez’s residence on Kaimat Street in the Maya Mopan Area of Belmopan. There they found 79.5 grams of marijuana. He was taken before a Belmopan Magistrate yesterday when he was officially arraigned and fined.
Belize Hotel Association attracts many at New York Times Travel Show.
The Belize Hotel Association participated in the 15th Annual New York Times Travel Show. The Association was represented by the 2nd Vice President Barbara Hall and Treasurer Rudy Gonzalez. The Belize Hotel Association booth kept visitors informed and engaged about the country with the purpose of convincing the visitors to vacation in Belize.
Belmopan Police Formation cares
The Belmopan Police Department is known for its outreach community efforts, especially with children. Today Belmopan’s Commanding Officer, Senior Superintendent of Police, Howell Gillett, host forty students of Faith Nazarene Primary School of San Ignacio Town. The children were given a tour of the Belmopan Police Station and they were treated to a motivational speech by one of the police officers.
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Police say they have Errol Smith’s murder
Belmopan police say they have cracked another murder case. Today, Devon Brooks was arrested and charged for the December 2017 murder of Errol Gabourel Smith. Smith’s body was found floating in the river near the Y-Wam Bridge in Roaring Creek village. He had been shot to the head and thrown in the ...
Belize Bank filed enforcement order; voting at parliament may be postponed
The much anticipated House Meeting where parliament is to vote on whether or not to pay that 90 million dollars to Belize Bank, as ordered by the CCJ, was to be held on February 16. However, the Government of Belize says it is waiting on advice from its lawyers to see if they will progress with tha...
Sunshine Holding wants BTL Employees Trust to hand over some compensation monies
The BTL nationalization saga is supposed to be over following that last 78 million US dollars that government paid out to the Ashcroft Alliance in the latter part of last year. However, it’s not quite over. When GOB acquired BTL, it also acquired another Ashcroft company called Sunshine Holdings. No...
Walk for Peace planned for murdered Oh sisters
The San Jose and San Antonio Villages are organizing a “Walk for Justice” in memory of murdered sisters Crisencia and Josephine Oh. The walk will be held this Saturday February 3rd. Organizers say the walk is intended to condemn crime, and appeal for justice, unity and peace in the Toledo Distric...
Accused murderer found with items belonging to murdered sisters
Today at its bi-weekly police briefing, police updated on the arrest made in the case of the murder of the Oh sisters in the Toledo District. Police have arrested and charged 20 year old Bella Vista resident Wilmer Alexander Escobar for the gruesome double murder of Josephina and Cresencia Oh , tee...
Ladyville gas station robbed
A gas station was robbed in Ladyville. The 19 year old cashier at Puma Gas Station located at Marage Plaza, Ladyville Village, reported that at 9:50pm last night, Wednesday January 31st, he was at work when three men entered the gas station. One of the men pointed a firearm at the cashier and deman...
Man stabbed in Belize City
A man was stabbed in Belize City early this morning. CIB Inspector Wilfredo Ferrufino told us more. Insp. Wilfredo Ferrufino – CIB, Belize City “This morning about 5:00 am police visited the KHMH and there they observed one Kenrick Valencia 34 years old security guard of Lords Bank. H...
PM hopeful CCJ will uphold CLICO judgment by Court of Appeal
CLICO, an insurance company which was headquartered in Trinidad and Tobago, closed its operations in 2009 due to financial problems. It had clients in Belize and when the company folded, it left 54 Belizean policy holders without compensation for their insurance purchases. The matter was taken to co...
PM not worried about Trump’s comments
In his state of the Union address delivered on Tuesday night, American President Donald Trump, once again, made mention of those countries who voted against America’s decision to move its US Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem, recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital city. Belize, along with 128 other ...
Can UDP hold on to its municipal seats?
The campaign trails are blazing leading up to the Municipal elections scheduled for March 7th. The United Democratic Party presently holds 62 of 67 municipal seats countrywide. PM Barrow was asked today, considering 10 year s in office already, if it is realistic to expect the UDP to hold on to all its seats in the new round of elections? Here is what he had to say.
When is Barrow leaving his Party Leader position
And the Prime Minister was also asked about his plan to leave the seat of Party Leader of the United Democratic Party. When exactly is he planning on leaving to make room for his successor?
Prime Minister Dean Barrow:
“I have to go, as you know, certainly in time for the next general elections. And I have not made any secret of the fact that I must go early enough to allow my successor a chance to lead the party into the 2020 general elections as prime minister. When exactly, or how much space that will require, and when exactly I go, is still a matter that I have to agree with the party.”
Missing park rangers found safe and sound
As we reported yesterday, 43 year old Luis Ramirez and 21 year old Elroy Villanueva were found safe and sound after being missing in the Caracol archaeological Reserve since Monday evening. An intense search was conducted by the BDF and members of the Police Special Patrol Unit when sometime aroun...
SIB stats: Inflation rate at 1.1%
The latest figures on consumer prices released by the Statistical Institute of Belize show that for the year 2017, Belize reported an annual national inflation rate of 1.1 percent. For the month of December 2017, the average Belizean household experienced a one percent increase in the cost ...
Water bill may be going down
And while inflation rate remains up, your water bill may be going down by as much as 6.39% . The Public Utilities Commission has reviewed the rates for the Belize Water Services and if there is no objection, by April 1st, BWS customers should be paying 16 dollars and 37 cents for every 1000 gallons ...
New donated equipment can test for Viruses
And while Trump’s statement about funding for places like Belize maybe unsettling, there was a US donation made to Belize yesterday. Yesterday, the Central Medical Laboratory of Belize received medical equipment from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The equipment will allo...
SIB Says Imports down for 2017, Exports slowly rising
SIB also released its initial estimates for ANNUAL IMPORTS for 2017 and the Imports side of the economy continue to show shrinkage. Merchandise imports for the year 2017 amounted to $1.8 billion, which represents a 4.1 percent or $79 million dollar decrease in total imports compared to 2016. The yea...
Ministry of Agriculture Imports US sheep
45 US born sheep were flown into Belize on Monday, and landed at the Phillip Goldson International airport. That’s a first for Belize and the Ministry of Agriculture says it is actually exciting news for Belize’s sheep industry. The purchase of the sheep Dorper and Barbados Black Belly sheep was fa...
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