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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
San Pedro Roman Catholic School to compete at the volleyball district finals
The female and male volleyball teams from the San Pedro Roman Catholic Primary School (SPRCS) are gearing up to represent San Pedro Town at the Volleyball District Finals on Thursday, February 15th in Belize City. Both teams emerged victorious at the Belize Rural South Volleyball elimination tournament for Zone 5 (Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker) on Thursday, February 1st held in San Pedro. The sporting event, organized by the National Sports Council also included the participation of male and female teams from Isla Bonita Primary School, Ambergris Caye Elementary School (ACES), New Horizon Seventh Day Adventist Primary School, and Holy Cross Anglican Primary School.
Belize Police Department sets plan to combat crime countrywide
The Belize Police Department (BPD) presented a comprehensive approach to tackle the alarming issue of crime and violence in Belize via the National Crime Fighting Strategy 2018- 2020. The plan has been in the making for quite some time but was not unveiled until Tuesday, February 6th by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The purpose of the plan is to reduce the murder rate and gang violence across the country, as 2017 went on record as one of the most murderous years in history, registering 144 homicides.
Annual Bob Marley tribute concert held on Ambergris Caye
The San Pedro House of Culture hosted their 8th annual tribute to Bob Marley Concert on Tuesday, February 5th at Central Park in San Pedro Town. Every year the Reggae icon is celebrated in various parts of the country in commemoration of his life and his significant contribution to the music industry.
In San Pedro Town, the event started at 4PM, with Marley's music filling the atmosphere. Attendees enjoyed Rastafarian dishes which are large aspect of Marley's culture. Later in the night local artists took to the stage performing some of Marley's most popular songs such as, One Love, Is This Love, Get Up Stand Up, and No Woman No Cry among others. "This event serves as a way to remember the great person Bob Marley was as well as the wonderful things he contributed to various societies around the world," said organizer of the event Ernildo Jones.
School children learn about crocodiles with ACES
The students at The Island Academy (TIA) enjoyed an interactive lesson on Crocodiles on Tuesday, February 6th courtesy of the American Crocodile Education Sanctuary (ACES) team. The senior and junior students learned important facts about American and Morelet crocodiles that are found in Belize. They also had the opportunity to meet 'Enchilada,' a rescued baby American Crocodile ACES brought to the presentation.
The educational presentation started shortly after 8:30AM with croc wrangler and field biologist Chris Summers from ACES welcoming the students to the session. Accompanying him was Christina Manzi who assisted in the lesson and David Ozier, a volunteer from Canada who is filming ACES' work for their website. Ozier has extensive experience in the writing and filming of nature documentaries and was more than happy to come to Belize to work along with Summers and his team.
Ambergris Today
PIC OF THE WEEK: El Gran Carnaval De San Pedro Is Here!
El Gran Carnaval de San Pedro is here! The San Pedro Town Council has set up a great photo prop at the Central Park for you take your pictures at! "El Gran Carnaval de San Pedro: Canta, Baila y Goza!" Don't miss out on all the fun activities this year and make sure to take your picture with friends, family or just a selfie at the Central Park's Awesome Prop! Que viva el Carnaval!
Special Application Needed For Police Officers To Work Special Duty
The Belize Police Department takes this opportunity to inform the general public of the policy in respect to police officers working Special Duty at business establishments and major events.
With immediate effect the business establishments/individuals requesting officers to work Special Duty must apply to the respective Formations/Sub-Formations Commanders at least (72) seventy two hours prior to the scheduled event. The application should include the specific duty requested and the time frame.
Misc Belizean Sources
Kindy take note of Archeological site update
FRIDAY 9 FEBRUARY 2018:
THE XUNANTUNICH, NOHOCH CHEEN, ATM AND BARTON CREEK ARCHAEOLOCICAL RESERVES ARE ALL CLOSED DUE TO FLOODED RIVER CONDITION.
ALL OTHER ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESERVES ARE OPEN FOR VISITATION.
PLEASE EXERCISE CAUTION AT ALL TIMES.
BELIZEAN STUDENTS IN TAIWAN ARE SAFE AND SOUND
An earthquake measuring 6.0 on the Richter scale occurred off the coast of Hualien in eastern Taiwan at 11:50PM on February 6, 2018, causing severe damage. Following the earthquake, President Tsai Ing-wen and Premier Lai Ching-te instructed all government agencies to fully support the rescue efforts and exhaust all possibilities in searching for survivors.
The Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) wishes to advise that the 136 Belizean students in Taiwan are all safe. There has been no reported injury to any Belizean student so far and the Embassy will continue to monitor the developing situation closely and will update the Government of Belize if any further development.
Poco Loco Food Court opens in San Pedro
Well, soft opening, that is... We're putting the finishing touches on the food court, but we'll be serving up our launch menu items from Black Daag Burrito Company and Big Up Burger! Chase your order with a beverage from Tipsy Toucan Bar, and make it a complete meal!
Sprouts Soup & Salad Bar and Driftwood Crepe Shop are opening VERY soon, so stay tuned for more news from those storefronts...
Street Art Festival
Saturday, Feb. 24th, Albert Street, 2-10pm. The Belize City House of Culture and Downtown Rejuvenation Project will be one of the sponsors for the 2018 Street Art Festival. Visit our booth on Albert Street near Scotia Bank where you will learn more about the Downtown Rejuvenation Project and participate in fun games. Think you are good in History and Social Studies? Come and take our History and Social Studies Quiz Challenge! Prizes will be available while stocks last. See you there!
RFG Insurance opens new branch agency in Corozal
On 7th Avenue at Vasquez Tire Shop. Covering Insurance for cars, properties, liability and boats.
We also sell new tires, used tires, and lubricants. For your construction needs we sell sand and gravel. Come visit our new office.
Agent: Jairo Vasquez 653-6530
DJ Championship Auditions
The DJ Championship auditions are coming to Cayo next week. They'll be at the Wing Stop Belmopan on Thursday, and on Saturday they'll be at Thirsty Thursdays here in Cayo. They have the list of rules for the 5 minute set on their page.
The Central American Waterbird Census 2018 is here!
Participating is easy! Contact us to join a team in one of the well-defined wetlands listed and count the waterbirds present - both species and individuals. Belize joins 6 other Central American countries in this year's Census - volunteer today!
For more information, contact [email protected]
New Caye Caulker Sign
Met the artists of the new Caye Caulker sign. Should be done today..just have the lobster on the Y to finish. The guy on the left did the concrete work and the other has done the painting. They have done a super job!
It's on the North east part of town, at the park about a block from the Split, Next to Caye Reef Condos.
Bayron Castellanos was the man in charge of doing the lettering to the guy in the pic Mariano for assisting as his helper and to Maigan for designing it.
BELIZEAN ACCOMMODATIONS AMONG TRIP ADVISOR'S TOP 2018 AWARDS IN THE WORLD AND CENTRAL AMERICAN CATEGORIES
The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) is pleased to announce once more that several Belizean accommodations have been recognized in this year's
TripAdvisor's 2018 awards list, both at the World and Central American categories. This year Coco Plum Island Resort ranked fourth in the Top 25 Small Hotel, 7th among the Top 25 Hotels for Romance and 9th on the Top 25 Hotels for Best Service in the World Category. Meanwhile, the Phoenix Resort in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye ranked 12th on the top 25 Luxury Hotels in the World Category and placed second on the Top Ten Luxury Hotels in the Central America category. Vanilla Hills Lodge in San Ignacio placed first in the top 25 B & Bs and Inns in Central America.
BELIZE MARINE CONSERVATION AND CLIMATE ADAPTATION PROJECT (MCCAP)
The Government of Belize, in collaboration with the World Bank (WB) and the Adaptation Fund (AF) is implementing the project entitled "Marine Conservation and Climate Adaptation Project"
(MCCAP). The project development objective is to implement priority ecosystem-based marine conservation and climate adaptation measures to strengthen the climate resilience of the Belize Barrier Reef System and its productive marine resources.
"Belikin Limited Edition" at the Placencia Sidewalk Art Festival
Here you go! Don't miss your chance to meet these amazing artists all in one place and see their original work on canvas as the Belize Brewing Company debuts their new "Belikin Limited Edition" on Friday 9th February here at Naia to kick off the Placencia Sidewalk Art Festival. The artists:
Anton Leslie,
Debbie Cooper,
Eduardo "Papo" Alamilla,
Ernest Garcia,
Gayla Fuller,
Gilvano Swasey,
Greta Leslie,
Jorge Landero,
Kelvin Baizar,
Nelson Young,
Terryl Godoy,
Walter Castillo.
Rong's Supermarket on 4th Avenue robbed at gunpoint
Video surveillance camera shows that around 3:25 p.m. this evening three creole male bandidos, two brandishing what appeared to be two guns, proceeded to clean out the cash register at Rong's Supermarket where the owner and his wife were the attendants..
During the ordeal the owner (whose name has not been released) was severley beaten and was taken to the hospital for treatment.
Police were immediately on the scene and so was the asian/chinese community in Corozal who came out in numbers to support their fallen countryman. Many Corozal residents stopped by to show their solidarity and support against the reckless crime and violence that continues to hurt business in our communities.
Vacancy at BEL
A vacancy exists at Belize Electricity Limited for the post of Business Analyst in the Business Performance Department (Belize City).
Boca's 3rd Anniversary
Boca's is celebrating its 3rd anniversary on Valentine's Day. They'll be raffling a 1 day rental from Western Belize Auto Rental as part of the celebrations. You'll get a chance for every $50 you spend there over the next week. Happy anniversary!
Cayo Rotaract Wins Project of the Year
Congratulations, Rotaract Club of San Ignacio! They won the 'Project of the Year Award for their wonderful School Refurbishment Project, where they fix schools in need. Keep up the amazing work.
"Through out the year we have been updating you on all the different schools and projects we have been doing with our Rotaract School Refurbishment project and this year we are proud to announce that our Rotaract club won Project of the year at the annual Rotaract Belize Intercitadina, a victory we share with all the clubs that participated. The Rotaract School Refurbishment Project is a national project proposed by Ms. Yasel Acosta that was fully sponsored by Westrac Ltd. Thank you Westrac Ltd without your help none of this would be possible! Now we will represent the country on a district level."
Paradise Theater playing this weekend:
Darkest Hour,
Daddy's Home 2,
The Star,
Tragedy Girls.
Sunday Night we will be hosting a comedian/Impersonator presented in spanish brought to you by Reef Radio for those interested in taking out there significant other to celebrate Valentines day a little early! 8pm $25 pre-sale Tickets $30 at the Door. Tickets can be purchased at Reef Radio
*Darkest Hour was nominated for 6 Academy Awards and Gary Oldman won best Actor at the Critics Choice and the Golden Globes Awards for his portrayal of Winston Churchill.*
Channel 7
Israel's Killers to Court
Belmopan police have come through again - charging two men today for the murder of public officer Israel Perez. Those men are 33 year old Cruz Castillo and 22 year old Stanely Herrera Jr. The cops have collected a large trove of evidence from Cruz Castillo's Cotton Tree home - he is the main accused. The evidence gathered so far suggests that Castillo killed Perez and then almost assumed his identity - driving his vehicle, using his tennis shoes, and taking the dead man's customized medallion - and putting it on his own chain!
But the charade ended when police found him handling Perez's stolen property - and, after a few days of investigation, they gathered enough evidence to charge him and Herrera Jr.. Courtney Weatherburne was at their quite eventful arraignment in Belmopan today.
PUP Bash Bradley For Contract Extensions
Turning now to politics, last night you heard Belize City Mayor Darrell Bradley defending his decision to give City Administrator Candice Miller - reportedly a 4 year contract renewal - just as his term is winding down.
Now those who study governance and public administration will tell you that for an outgoing elected official - ethically, that's just not "the done thing." But, in his defence, The mayor said, quote, "I'm the mayor up until the last day of this month. I do things which I consider to be in the best interest of the City. People may disagree. They may complain, but I am the mayor."
Indeed, Mayor Bradley added that he did it to give security of tenure to all staff at city hall, including, apparently, contract officers.
GOB Gets A Break: Sunshine Case Will Be Heard
On Monday, we told you how the Ashcroft Alliance and the Government of Belize were going back to the Supreme Court to argue over the BTL acquisition yet again. This is now taking place even though the half a billion dollar settlement was supposed to settle all fights over the acquisition of the telecoms company.
As we reported, it's over the Sunshine Holdings Limited, which has swapped ownership from being an Ashcroft Allied entity to being a Government controlled company.
Under the Musa Administration, when Sunshine was an Ashcroft Company, it made 2 loans of 10 million dollars each: 1 from the Social Security Board, and the other from the Government itself. The company the used these investment loans to buy shares in BTL.
Sunshine Fight Will Be Highly Complex, Protracted
So, while that was the first round of fights over the Sunshine, what do these attorneys see as the real issues that the court will have to decide on?
We asked both sides to summarize their case, and why they think they will win. Here's how they explained it:
Rodwell Williams, SC - Attorney for Sunshine:
"Pending before the court were 2 applications 1 by the claimant, Sunshine, to continue the freeze, and for an ancillary order to the freeze, and one by my friends to strike out the claim and He proceeded with the hearing of the application to strike out the claim because if the claim is struck out, then there would be nothing left to discuss about freezing. Mr. Courtenay began his arguments and the court - we had some discussion, and it was felt that in my view, my view, that it was bound to fail, and the court indicated that there was sufficient merit that it should go to trial on the merits. So, rather than expend, time, energy, and money on preliminary issues, we have decided an early trial date. So, we have early trial on the merit. In the meantime, the freeze remains to abide the outcome."
Sunshine Fight Is Really All About SSB Money
So, as you will certainly have deduced, it's a complex case, but at the end of the day, the Government of Belize has basically been saddled with a 20 million-dollar debt that it did not incur. So, we asked the Ashcroft Attorney why GOB, and by extension, you the taxpayers, are at risk of trying to repay it.
Here's how that back and forth went about why the Ashcroft Alliance, from their perspective, does not owe that bill, even though these loans were made when the Alliance was in control of Sunshine:
Daniel Ortiz:
"What would you say this interpretation that, okay, these loans were made when BTL under the management and control of the Ashcroft Alliance, and so, why should the Government and people of Belize be on the lam this particular debt that we didn't incur?"
Unitedville Saw A Localized Flash Flood
If you were in Belize City last night you had cool and calm night, but for residents out west - it was very very wet. It rained almost all night and flooded them out. Those affected the most were Unitedville residents - who live close to the creek. The waters rose and inundated their yards, homes and the village bridge. Courtney Weatherburne has more.
Unitedville resident Alberto Cocom makes and sells coconut oil - he has his own home-styled factory in his kitchen.
He had already made a few buckets and was preparing to make more when last night's flash flood ruined those batches and washed away most of his coconuts.
Water Rising In the West
And while the Unitedville flash flood was an isolated event - the Cayo District is under close watch tonight because river levels are rising. This is most visible at the Iguana Creek Bridge which continues to rise at this hour. District Coordinator Al Westby told us about the water levels at the dam:..
Al Westby - NEMO Coordinator, Cayo:
"Just the last report I got from a BECOL rep that all three dams are rising still. So, that's not...it's good and bad news for us - they're taking in water, but they're not spilling as yet. The Iguana Creek bridge is under water. We have different areas that tributaries come and contribute to these cutoff areas. We have to look at San Marcos, which is a village within the Buena Vista area. There's a lot of families there. We have to look at El Progresso 7 Miles. Anybody who live along the low lying areas, we ask that they heed to these type of waters and take precaution as those people did last night in Unitedville."
PUP National Convention Come Rain Or Shine
But whether the rivers continue rising or not, the PUP is moving forward with its national convention on Sunday. They had already postponed it two weeks ago due to rain - and they aren't about to do so again. The Party Chairman says it will be a massive event:
Henry Charles Usher - PUP Chairman:
"Well today we're having our walk through before Sunday's massive national convention. We expect to have over 15,000 and we're preparing for over 15,000 party supporters, members of the public, Belizeans from far and wide to be here on Sunday. It'll be the biggest convention in the history of this country. We're bringing in over 230 buses from outside in the districts and we have to make sure that the buses come in, that they offload their passengers on a timely manner. But I'm looking forward to it. This Sunday is our Superbowl. Last week they had Superbowl in the US, well, this Sunday the PUP is having its Superbowl on February 11th right here at the ITVET."
COMPOL Cracks Down On Special Duties
It was probably the best racket that the cops had going. It's called "special duty" - and it's how all ranks of police officers get paid to use their uniform - and earn extra dollars on the side, tax free. If you're not familiar with the term - you certainly are familiar with the practice. When you see uniformed police working at bars, nightclubs, or concerts, they're on special duty, meaning they are earning $12.50 an hour for constables, $ 14.50 per hour for Sergeants, and $15.00 per hour for senior officers.
Now, it's legitimate work, much needed for the maintenance of law and order, and there's there's nothing wrong with it. In fact there are provisions for all these requests for police officers to be processed through the police administrative office.
Will Belize Send For Bacchus?
On Tuesday we told you about Canadian Jordan Bacchus. Bacchus was a person of interest in the murder of San Pedro star athlete Melvin Almendarez but fled to his home country of Canada before he could be detained.
Bacchus who was also wanted in Canada was found and arrested last week Friday in Ontario Canada. Today, we asked the police about Bacchus's extradition to Belize after he has been processed in Canada.
Sahar Vasquez:
"Will he be extradited to Belize to face murder charges?"
CDB President Expects Belize To Rebound
Yesterday, we showed you Caribbean Development Bank's annual press conference from Barbados - where the statistics reflected that Belize's economy was one of the most sluggish in the region, registering an anemic .6% GDP growth. It was also one of only five countries whose public debt grew in 2017.
But still, the CDB's president remains confident that Belize can juggle growing death and slow economic growth to rebound. He told our colleague from Jamaica Nationwide News Kalilah Enriquez more:
Dr. W. Warren Smith, President - CDB:
"We have been investing in infrastructure projects in Belize which are very targeted. Belize is a large country compared to the population that it has so the infrastructure needs are great and they have challenges on the social sector side because you have a lot of inward migration into Belize because the borders are pretty open so there's a challenge to try to keep up with the requirements for adequate education and other services to the people of Belize."
Hard Drugs In Little Trinidad
It's a tiny village in Orange Walk North, but Trinidad was loaded with crack when police went on a search yesterday. The first search was done at the home of 25-year-old Raquelo Gomez.
Police found a plastic container that contained 2.4 grams of Crack Cocaine. At the time 36-year-old Marcela Gomez was also present. Police arrested and charged both women with drug trafficking.
The second search was at an abandoned lot in the village. They found a small plastic bag containing 40 pieces of crack cocaine. No one was present at the time of the discovery so the drugs were labelled and deposited as found property.
Belize's Best Resorts Get 17 Spots On Trip Advisor Top 25
Trip Advisor is a popular site that tourists all around the world use to plan travel and to rate their hotel and restaurant experiences. For the past 16 years, they have recognized the countries that get the most reviews and opinions in a year with the Travellers Award.
This year Belize is big in the awards with 17 different hotels making the top 25 list in different categories. These Belizeans hotels range all over the country from the always popular San Pedro to peaceful and quiet Cayo. You can view the full list on our website.
The Wisdom of 104 Years
Sunday, February 4th marked Mary Tate's 104th birthday. Tate was born in 1914. She dedicated the majority of her life to raising her children and ensuring they got only the best.
Tate resides at Sister Cecilia's Home for the Elderly now. She is confined to a wheelchair but she does not let that break her spirit. At 104 Tate is still bursting with energy and endless good humour and grace.
We stopped by the home today to celebrate Tate's incredible milestone.
Rodwell Says It Wasn't Him
Earlier in the news, we took you to the Supreme Court for the latest fight between the Ashcroft Alliance and the Government over the BTL acquisition and its settlement.
Today's case gave us the first opportunity to ask Rodwell Williams about that BTL Settlement Deed from 2015 which still continues to haunt the Barrow Administration.
You'll remember that when the half-a-billion-dollar BTL settlement was first introduced to the Belizean people, the Prime Minister had an interesting sales pitch. He acknowledged that this was indeed an astronomical figure that the the country would have to pay for the the company, but of that final figure, 60% of it would go into a trust to be used on projects for the people of Belize.
PUP Say Faber Was Intimidating
Last week at the launch of the UDP Manifesto, the ruling party's Deputy Prime Minister urged voters to cast their municipal ballots for his party's slates because they can be assured of a good working relationship with a UDP Central Government.
It's an old and true formula for political persuasion - and the PUP rejected it today:..
Henry Charles Usher - PUP Chairman:
"We have seen a PUP town council in Orange Walk been able to get the work done, being able to deliver for the people under a UDP central government so the blueprint is there it can work..."
Channel 5
Cotton Tree Duo: Cruz Castillo and Stanley Herrera Jr. Arraigned for the Murder of Israel Perez
These the two men were arraigned this afternoon in the Belmopan Magistrate's Court for the murder of Immigration clerk, Israel Perez. �Cotton Tree residents, Cruz Castillo and Stanley Herrera Junior, [...]
Canadian National Wanted in Belize, Arrested for Drug Possession
On Monday, we reported that Canadian national Jordan Bacchus was arrested by police in his home country for possession of drugs. According to the Canadian media, Bacchus will answer to [...]
Couple Hospitalized after Mid-Afternoon Stabbing
A stabbing incident earlier today on Gill Street has left a couple hospitalized at the K.H.M.H. after receiving injuries to various parts of their bodies.� Thirty-five-year-old Rhonda Burgess and her [...]
The P.U.P. to Review Contracts Issued Past the Life of the Current City Council
A four-year contract renewal for Candice Burke to remain city administrator, along with four other directors, has brought outgoing mayor Darrell Bradley under fire.� On Wednesday, he confirmed that a [...]
Guyana's Opposition Leader Turns Down Nomination of CJ Kenneth Benjamin
Guyana's Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo has turned down the nomination of Chief Justice of Belize Kenneth Benjamin to be Chancellor of the Judiciary of the South American country, according to [...]
P.U.P. Chairman on DPM Faber's Comment on Election Outcome
The United Democratic Party remains at the helm of central government until general elections are called.� It means that until then, all municipal bodies will be functioning under the leadership [...]
P.U.P. Prepares for What It Says Will Be a Mammoth Convention
Since postponing its national convention a few weeks ago due to inclement weather, the People's United Party has been busy organizing what it is calling the biggest political gathering that [...]
Protest in Cayo Against the Alleged Padding of the Voters List
A protest was held today in front of the Elections and Boundaries offices in Santa Elena. Supporters, as well as candidate councillors of the People's United Party, came out to [...]
P.U.P. Mayoral Candidate Says: Win Elections Legally
During the year-long immigration hearings of the Senate Select Committee, the former director of Immigration Ruth Meighan confirmed that at least two thousand persons, who did not qualify, illegally obtained [...]
Kaya Cattouse Slams Cycling Federation for Excluding Female and Junior Races in its Annual Calendar
Well-known female cyclist Kaya Cattouse is the latest athlete to come out against the Cycling Federation of Belize, amid the controversy surrounding the stalling of its elections.� She is not [...]
Cattouse Says There's Lack of Transparency under Leslie's Presidency
Cattouse has since taken to social media to vent her frustrations with the Cycling Federation.� She outlines a number of issues, including a lack of transparency under Leslie's presidency. [...]
The Vision of the Political Aspirants in Punta Gorda
In our ongoing series on mayoral candidates, we headed to the southernmost town of Punta Gorda.� The population is mixed and there are just under four thousand voters who are [...]
Town Councils Heavily Indebted to S.S.B.
With�elections four weeks away, all eyes are how town councils have been performing in the different�municipalities. �Today, News Five learnt that at least three councils�are heavily indebted to the Social [...]
Gomez Women Charged for Drug Trafficking in Orange Walk
Ongoing anti-drug operations took police up north to the village of Trinidad in the Orange Walk District.� In an empty lot there, they found a plastic bag containing forty pieces [...]
Overnight Flash Flood in Unitedville, Cayo
There was a flash flood in the west on Wednesday night. Sometime after mid-night, NEMO was called out to an area in Unitedville where a portion of the George Price [...]
Age is Just a Number: Mary Tate Turns 104
Mary Tate of the Sister Cecilia Home for the Elderly celebrated her one hundred and fourth birthday today in grand style. She was serenaded by the other residents, ate birthday [...]
Healthy Living Heads to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at the K.H.M.H.
There is good news coming out the country's largest referral hospital, the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital.� That is that the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit is finally in operation. It's been [...]
LOVE FM
Can PUP capture the majority of municipalities in the upcoming elections?
The People United Party presently controls only one municipality which is Orange Walk Town. Linsford Castillo, the party's Secretary-General says they are hopeful that these upcoming municipal elections will change all that. Linsford Castillo - Secretary-General, PUP "We are in full engagement as far as the ground campaign is concerned. We're now really, less than �
PUP gears up for Municipal Elections
The People's United Party will be holding its National Convention on Sunday at the ITVET compound. This event is taking place less than a month away from the municipal elections. Love News caught up with the PUP supporters at ITVET as they prepared for the National Convention and spoke with Linsford Castillo, Secretary-General of the �
Two charged with murder of Israel Perez
Belmopan Police have charged two men with the murder of Israel Perez. The men identified by police as 33-year-old Cruz Castillo and 22-year-old Stanley Herrera, both of Cotton Tree Village, were charged this afternoon with murder. They are scheduled to return to court on April 12. A post-mortem examination has also certified that Perez bled �
Statistical Institute of Belize closes four of its offices
Apart from its headquarters in Belmopan, Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) had branch offices in Corozal Town, Orange Walk Town, Belize City and Punta Gorda. However, that is no longer the case since this past Monday SIB closed those offices as part of its restructuring exercise. Love News spoke with Diana Castillo-Trejo, Deputy Director General, �
Love FM welcomes Jamaican artists for Saturday concert
The Cucumber Beach at Old Belize will be transformed this weekend as four of Jamaica's golden singers will take to one stage and celebrate Love FM's 25th anniversary with their best hits. We are talking about Lloyd Lovindeer, "the doctor of science"; Ernie Smith; Pluto Shervington and Boris Gardiner. They touched down today at the �
No special jobs for Police without permission
The Police Department has officially announced that with immediate effect police officers cannot work special duty without proper permission being granted. In a release issued today, it states that quote, "business establishment/ individuals requesting officers to work Special Duty must apply to the respective Formations/ Sub-Formation Commanders at least seventy-two hours prior to the scheduled �
Cycling Federation not showing accountability, Tarique Cano says
In his letter Tarique Cano also spoke of several other concerns he has with the management of the Cycling Federation of Belize and the sport itself. According to Cano there is a lack of any systematic and comprehensive criteria for the selection of cyclists to the National Team. He also says that the Federation has �
Are female cyclists being treated unfairly by the Cycling Federation?
Well known female professional cyclist Kaya Cattouse is also speaking out against the Cycling Federation of Belize. Cattouse has become an advocate for women and youth cyclists who she says have not been given the same opportunities by the Federation. She says quote, "Instead of finding ways to encourage participation and build the female field, �
No charges yet in death of elderly man
Police have not charged 47 year old Anselm Gillett in the death of 77-year old George Young who died in a road traffic incident on the Burrell Boom/Hattieville Road on January 29. Authorities say that the file is being prepared to be sent to the Director of Public Prosecution for directions. Police report that the �
Tarique Cano wants to be President of the Cycling Federation
Tarique Cano, a professional cyclist in Belize, says he is a registered member of the Cycling Federation of Belize, CFB. Cano sent a letter to the President of the CFB Dion Leslie expressing 7 concerns with regards to the management of the sport. In response, the CFB told Cano's attorney that he is quote, "not �
No extradition yet for Jordan Bacchus
Earlier this week we reported on the detention of Jordan Bacchus, a Canadian who is a person of interest to Belize Police in the shooting death of Melvin Almendarez who was killed in San Pedro Town in May of 2016. He was reportedly detained following a raid of a house in Northern Ontario as police looked for drugs. A report indicated that the Sudbury Police would process Bacchus for a drug-related office and that considerations would be made for his extradition back to Belize to be investigated for Almendarez's murder.
Who was responsible for 'poorly' drafted BTL Settlement Deed?
On September 11, 2015 the Government of Belize and British Caribbean Bank Limited arrived at a settlement, so did the Government of Belize, Dunkheld International and the Belize Telemedia Limited Employees Trust. The settlement was for the nationalization of BTL. The Caribbean Court of Justice stated that the settlement deed was poorly drafted. So who drafted it? Senior Counsel Rodwell Williams says it was not him.
Sunshine's case to go to trial
Attorneys for Sunshine Holdings, the BTL Employees Trust and the Government of Belize presented themselves before Supreme Court Justice Courtenay Abel today. In November of last year, the Government of Belize made the final payment for its acquisition of Belize Telemedia Limited. However, Sunshine Holdings is still trying to collect what it believes it is owed. Under the Musa Administration over ten years ago, the Social Security Board loaned Sunshine Holdings ten million dollars.
TAA and MLA condemn "politicizing" of Guatemala's claim over Belize
The Toledo Alcaldes Association and the Maya Leaders Alliance have issued a joint release condemning what they call the "politicizing of Guatemala's claim over Belize". The Association states that persons working with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are conducting a survey within communities in southern Belize surrounding the Belize Guatemala territorial dispute and taking the �
Belize City Council extends staff tenure
During an interview in Belize City today Mayor Darrell Bradley said that the Belize City Council has been working on securing the tenure of its staff since with the security of tenure the Belize City Council will be able to attract more qualified persons. Darrell Bradley - Mayor of Belize City "This is part of our �
Musical documentary to be screened in San Ignacio
The documentary, Aldea Mundial will be shown this weekend in San Ignacio. The documentary features different cultures including the Garifuna. Jesse Louis is traveling across the countries to show the film and he spoke with Love News. Jesse Louis - Prompter "We are actually carrying on our bikes: bass guitar, cables, a projector, a projector �
Robbers hit Chinese business in Dangriga for the third time
Police in Dangriga is investigating an armed robbery that occurred at a business establishment in that municipality. Correspondent Harry Arzu has the story. Harry Arzu - Reporter "Love FM: Shortly after seven o'clock last night three male persons of dark complexion entered Bengushe store located on Penn Road here in the Bengushe area of town �
Building regulations enforced
Mayor Darrel Bradley said that there is an increase in construction in the city which has created a problem with persons not adhering to the building regulations. As a result, the Council is trying to be as vigilant as possible to ensure that persons comply with the building regulations. Darrell Bradley - Mayor of Belize �
National Plan on chemical management updated
Today was the conclusion of a two-day consultation workshop that dealt with updating the National Implementation Plan (NIP) on the Persistent Organic Pollutants (POP) in Belize. The workshop was an initiative of the Department of the Environment in collaboration with the Basel Convention Regional Center for the Caribbean in Trinidad & Tobago. Love news spoke �
Mother searches for missing son
Sharliine Neal, the mother of Geovanni Augustine Fernandez, visited our studios to report that her son went missing. Sharliine Neal, Mother of Geovanni Augustine Fernandez "He gone from last week Friday, I call him , he doesn't answer his phone, it cut off and I start worry because they found a little boy that's 18, �
Broadcaster Mario Lopez speaks of his journey with Love FM
In our countdown to Love FM's twenty-fifth anniversary, today we share with you the story of Mario Lopez, also known as DJ Super Mario. Lopez has been involved in the broadcasting industry for a number of years and is a staple on Estereo Amor, our Spanish speaking station which came along one year after Love �
Police Department to strengthen the Professional Standards Branch
And while police want to improve the disciplinary process within the department, it is also aiming to ensure that officers are properly monitored. Allen Wylie - Commissioner of Police "Additional Police officers will be identified and posted to the PSB to allow for a PSB officer to be stationed in every police district. Belize Police �
New laws and amendments in the fight against crime
Strategy number two will focus on legislative reforms. The department feels that to increase its effectiveness in addressing crime, and especially gang-related crime and violence, legislation reform is key. For this, recommendations for amendments to existing legislation and the writing of new ones have been made. One of these is the enactment of an anti-gang �
Fareed Ahmad was constantly followed, family says
Yesterday, the family of the late Fareed Ahmad hosted a press conference to express their desire for a proper, impartial and transparent investigation into his shooting death. Ahmad was killed in December of last year and WPC Michelle Brown was charged with murder.
Cyclists call out Cycling Federation of Belize
Two cyclists have written to the President of the Cycling Federation of Belize, Dion Leslie, expressing concerns they have with the management of the Federation and the sport. Through attorney Hector Guerra, cyclist Tariq Cano, on a letter dated February 6, points out to Leslie seven issues he has been having with the Federation.
Police strategy to disarm criminals
On Tuesday the Belize Police Department presented its new National Crime Fighting Strategy. The strategy targets gangs and is also focused on amendments to existing legislation and the creation of new ones to fight crime. The department will also be conducting some in-house cleaning and strengthening the Professional Standards Branch.
Cycling Federation responds to Cano's concerns
Late this evening the Cycling Federation of Belize responded to Tarique Cano through its attorney, Bryan Neal. According to the letter, Cano is quote, "not a registered member of the Cycling Federation of Belize since he has not completed the required process".
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