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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
Belize Cancer Society of California assists San Pedro Cancer Society
The President of the Belize Cancer Society of California in the USA, Arlette Pilgrim visited the island to make a donation to the San Pedro Cancer Society (SPCS) on Tuesday, April 24th. The donation was received by President of SPCS, Delsie Graniel, Vice-President Miguel Perez and Treasure Claudia Miranda.
Pilgrim donated several items on behalf of her organizations, including bras, prosthetic breasts, lymphedema sleeves for patients who have had mastectomies, and comfy shoes. In addition to the donations, Pilgrim surprised the local cancer society with a “Smokalyzer” which can detect the amount of carbon monoxide in people’s breath.
Book Week celebrated in Caye Caulker
The Belize Book Industry Association (BBIA) celebrated their annual Book Week under the theme: “Read it! Dream it! Live it!” with a “Book Fair” at the basketball court in Caye Caulker on Wednesday, April 18th. Held in commemoration of International Book and Copyright Day each year, the Association organizes several activities.
This year’s event began at 9:30AM, as residents were invited to view the several booths providing information on the importance of reading. The activities were aimed at promoting the importance of reading, publishing, and copyright and also to pay tribute to authors in the book industry, professionals or volunteers. Other activities that attendees got to enjoy included cultural performances, face painting and even storytelling sessions.
9-A-Side Football Tournament begins in Ambergris Caye
San Pedro Sports Committee’s (SPSC) 9-A-Side Football Tournament kicked-off this weekend at the Ambergris Stadium in San Pedro Town. The tournament is seeing the participation of various teams in three different categories for a chance to win one of three championship trophies. The under-13 (U-13) category has the participation of San Pedro Pirates F.C and San Mateo F.C., the under-15 (U-15) will see the participation of San Mateo F.C, Terror Squad, Atletico Madrid, Los Catrachitos and Larubeya F.C. while in the female category the teams that will be competing for the championship include Island Warriors #1, Island Warriors #2, San Pedro High School (SPHS), Ambergris Combined Force, and Island Strikers.
Ambergris Today
Government Of Belize Releases Statement On Recent Spate Of Illegal Airplane Landings
The Ministry of National Security along with its regional partners, including the United States, Mexico, and Central American neighbors rely on information from each other, and the available radar capabilities, to keep informed of any airplane tracking towards Belize and the region. Despite these efforts, there has been a spate of illegal airplane landings in the country as the aircraft manage to avoid detection from the available regional radars.
Belize’s Department Of The Environment Tackles Medical Waste
On Tuesday, April 24, 2018, The Department of the Environment held a national consultation to address medical waste in Belize. Martin Alegria, Chief Environmental Officer stated that the department has hired three consultants to look at Belize’s current position in three areas concerning medical waste management. The aim is for Belize to manage medical waste more efficiently and minimize secondary or direct impacts on human health and the environment.
Misc Belizean Sources
Garbage Bins Must Now Be Kept Inside Your Yard in San Pedro
The San Pedro Town Council hereby informs the general public that effective Friday, May 4th, 2018, all garbage receptacles/garbage drums used for the disposal of residential and commercial garbage must be placed inside your yard.
Please note that all garbage bins must be easily accessible by
sanitation workers for disposal.
Failure to comply in removing bins off the street will result in the removal of these bins by the San Pedro Town Council.
BELIZE FISHING REPORT: Weeks of Apr. 16th thru Apr. 22nd, 2018
Every angler this week has caught bonefish. From the experienced angler to the inexperienced angler, the bonefish of Belize are an achievable goal. Our guides will put you on the bonefish so that you can enjoy the tug. Work on your double haul and come on down.
BTB Site visit at Copal Tree Lodge
Community Rehabilitation Department Honours 99 clients at Youth Resiliency Awards
Today, the Community Rehabilitation Department (CRD) within the Ministry of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation held its first Youth Resiliency Awards ceremony to recognize current and former clients who have made tremendous strides to live a positive life despite the adversity they face. Ninety-nine youths from across the country were awarded within three categories:
“On the Right Path” – 63 received certificates and a gift bag in this category
“Milestone Achievement” - 30 plaques were distributed to clients who also received a gift bag, $20 phone credit courtesy of Belize Telemedia Ltd. and a $50 gift certificate.
Inauguration Ceremony for the Rehabilitation and Expansion of the Orange Walk Town Farmers’ Market
The newly rehabilitated and expanded farmers’ market in Orange Walk Town officially opened today, April 26th, 2018.
Financing in the amount of BZ$$554,986.10 for the works, was provided by the European Union through funds from the Accompanying Measures for Sugar (AMS 2013) programme, which supports the Government's Sugar Adaptation Strategy with counterpart funds by the Government of Belize.
Discussing Development of Commerce Bight Port for Response to Maritime Disaster
Minister of Transport and National Emergency Management, with responsibility for Ports, Hon. Edmond Castro met with representatives of Recological Systems Limited on Tuesday, April 24th. The company formally submitted a proposal to the Government of Belize for development of the Commerce Bight Port in the Stann Creek District for terminal related business with an emphasis on the establishment of a First Response to Maritime Disaster, offering protection to Belizean waters should an incident occur that could affect maritime livelihood.
Transport Minister meets with Representatives from Spanish Lookout to Discuss Establishment of Transport Office to Service that Community and Surrounding Areas
On Wednesday, April 25th, Minister of Transport Honorable Edmond Castro met with representatives from the Spanish Lookout Community in Belmopan to discuss the details of a plan to establish a new Transport Office to service that community and surrounding areas.
The undertaking is being facilitated by the community itself which has identified a building to house the office, which should become operational by the middle of May 2018.
Belize and Cuba meet for a Fisheries Exchange to Share Challenges, Innovations and Success Stories for Good Governance of Fisheries and Sustainable Management of the Caribbean Ecosystem
Sustainability and good governance of marine resources are critical for the national interests of both Belize and Cuba. This week, from April 24-28th, 2018, delegations from Belize and Cuba comprised of government representatives, managers, scientists, leaders of the fishing industry and representatives of fishing communities are meeting in Belize to share lessons learned and success stories in sustainable fisheries management and good governance of the seas.
Movie Night at KoKo King
Family Friday!! Breadwinner and the Greatest Showman!! Kids dinners, popcorn and marshmallows!! See you Friday night!!!
GOB and OFID Sign Loan for Phase One of Caracol Road Upgrading Project
San Pedro Mother's Day 2018 Extravaganza!
The San Pedro Town Council and Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr. present its Mother's Day 2018 Extravaganza!
This year's line up includes Mérida's popular comedian, Nani Namu, Cayo's Ismael Chacon as El Buki and our very own Wil & Dale and Yaka's Elite Dancers!
It promises to be a great show which will start at 8:00 p.m. Gates open at 6:00 p.m.
Tickets are only $20 and it includes a gift, gourmet dinner, a drink and dessert!
Open Mic Night on Caye Caulker
Gonna be an awesome night!
Sign up now!!
Caye Caulker Health Week May 14th-18th
Caye Caulker Village Council presents Health Week May 14th-18th, 2018 Free Consultation & Eye Exam From BCVI, Free Consultation From Internist & Pediatrician from Belize Medical Associates with discount from lab & pharmacy, More Still to Come For Dental Care & Promotions by Dr. D's Clinic. Stay tune!
BBIA Book Week 2018
The BBIA's 2018 Book Week event was well attended, with many authors and publishers there with a selection of their works. The poetry readings and plays at the Wildfire Artzmosphere were fun and entertaining too.
"We celebrate the 2016-2017 Literary Prize Winners: Dino Gutierrez Ivory Kelly Tisa Grant Jacklyn Burns Mary Gomez Parham. Like the Belize Book Industry Association to get started on your 2018-2019 Submission. Winners get Recognition, Cash Prizes and Published. Thanks to all who participated in making Book Week possible."
BBIA picture album.
Cayo Scoop day album.
Cayo Scoop Wildfire album.
Vacancy for Park Ranger at Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Application deadline May 2, 2018
Channel 7
Drug Jet Flown to Williamson Hanger, BDF Airwing
The drug plane that landed on the San Estevan/Progresso Road has been removed - and it is secured in a hangar at the BDF Airwing in Ladyville tonight.
For sure, it’s nothing to celebrate - since no drugs were intercepted and no arrests made - but it was an unusual sight to see a jet whipping down a village road.
That’s just what happened today when the aircraft - flown by a mystery pilot - used the long, straight road as a runway - and took off in a flash.
From there it went airborne, and then landed at the PGIA just a few minutes later.
Drug Plane “Super-unknowns”
But, let’s not get ahead of ourselves: the news tonight is that the government found a pilot who could fly the jet, thus getting rid of one major headache and embarrassment - an empty drug plane on the side of the road.
But, the issue remains, police still have no idea who landed the jet in Belize, and what they did with the drugs.
Today, at the bi-weekly police press conference, the head of the National Criminal Investigations Branch told us what they have so far on the illegal landing:
ACP Joseph Myvette - Head, NCIB
"On Tuesday the 24th April shortly before 5 AM police received information of an aircraft that had landed on the San Estevan Progresso dirt road. As a result police proceeded to the area where upon arrival they observed a white in color twin engine Hawker Siddeley HS125 Series 700 A aircraft on the ground. The area was secured and later processed. Upon inspection of the aircraft it was found.."
Working Man Killed Because Of Someone Else’s Beef
A 26 year old working man was killed last night in the city. Kemmar Wade’s body was found in a crashed car in front of the Lion’s Den compound next to the KHMH. It was one more senseless murder: Wade was killed because of a dispute his friend had with someone else. Courtney Weatherburne has more on the murder motive and how Wade ended up in the Lion’s Den compound.
To passersby, this late night accident may have looked like a fender bender in the BCVI compound, but really, this mishap is the tail end of a St. Jude Street shooting.
The victim - 26 year old Kemmar Wade was inside the car bleeding to death.
Wade had been renting a Mopan Street room for a couple years. His neighbor says he was at home last night hanging out by the front gate – which she says was strange since Wade usually kept to himself in his room.
Cops On Killing
So, from what we found out on the ground, the motive seems pretty clear cut. But, today, police would not confirm that information. Here is what they had to say:…
Daniel Ortiz:
"Persons have informed us that they believe that this particular murder is retaliation so to speak in some ongoing feud. Persons are telling us that Mr. Wade's brother - there was a theft of his gold chains valued around 2,000 dollars and that he may have retaliated against the person he believed to be the thief by burning that person's vehicle and that there was a subsequent retaliation with Mr. Wade being shot as a consequence of all of this back and forth. Has any such information come to police?"
Police Seeking Suspects In Rosado Murder
Police also discussed their investigation into Monday’s murder of business man, Oscar Rosado Sr.
The 70 year-old was killed in a broad-daylight robbery turned murder at his business place, Rosado’s Construction Supplies, which is at the junction of Partridge Street and the George Price Highway.
As we told you, 3 men went into the shop pretending to return some nails. The gunman held up Rosado’s wife, Elena realized that main culprit was trying rob them, but before she could warn her husband, he held her up at gunpoint. Coming to her rescue, Oscar Rosado Sr., shoved the gunman, who shot him twice in the face, killing him inside his store.
Here’s what the cops had to say about the case today:
No Arrests Yet For Killing Near A School
On Tuesday morning, Dangriga witnessed a shocking, broad-daylight, execution-style murder.
As we told you, 55 year-old Patrick George Crossdale was riding his motorbike toward his home when a man jumped out of the bushes and fired 5 shots at him.
We asked the police about the murder of the Jamaican not far from the Gulisi school, and here’s what they had to say about it:
Wilfredo Ferrufino - Inspector, CIB:
"The 24th sometime around 10:30 AM Dangriga responded to shots fired in the Monument site area. Upon arrival we received information that the victim was transported to the Southern Regional Hospital.;;"
Uno Robbery, Four Suspects, Tens of Thousands Gone
Earlier this week, we told you about Monday’s armed robbery at the UNO Gas Station in San Ignacio Town.
It was caught on security camera, and cell phone by civilians standing outside the gas station. They saw the robber dashing off, but the police told us today that he was one of a team of 4 accomplices, and that they actually got away with a whopping $33,000 in cash and cheques.
Here’s what the Head of the National Criminal Investigation’s Branch had to say on this topic:
ACP Joseph Myvette - Head, NCIB:
"On Monday 23rd April shortly before 11 AM police were called to the UNO gas station located on the Benque Veijo Road in San Ignacio Town where upon arrival it was reported to them that the gas station was approached by 4 male persons - 2 of whom entered whilst 2 remained outside..."
Elite Cyclist Brandon Cattouse Positive For EPO
One of Belize’s premier cyclists is under scrutiny tonight after he tested positive for a performance enhancing substance in the sample he gave at the end of this year’s Valentine’s tour. 7News has confirmed that Brandon Cattouse has come up with a positive test for EPO - which is the blood boosting agent used in cycling scandals all across Europe. It increases the number of oxygen-carrying cells in the blood is purported to give cyclists more power and endurance.
An hour ago, the National Anti-Doping Organization sent out a release saying, quote, “Results received from UCLA reference lab for Anti-Doping have revealed an Adverse Analytical result for sample from Brandon Cattouse tested during the Valentine’s Day race, 11 February 2018….(he)tested positive for recombinant human erythropoietin.”
Mayor Asks, Why 59 Grand For Gilbert?
It’s been 50 days since a PUP council was elected into City Hall and today the mayor Bernard Wagner presented a transition team report. And, included in there were a whole lot of goodies on what the previous administration did and didn’t do.
But one of the most attention grabbing revelations was something that happened after the election on March 8th, when what the Mayor says is an oversized payment was authorised for contractor Gilbert Franklin:..
Bernard Wagner - Mayor, Belize City
"When we assumed office on March the 8th after winning the election on March the 7th we noted this particular accounts payable which was done on March the 8th - one day after we winning the election...”
New Mayor Says Fiscal Indiscipline Reigned Under Last Council
And while that happened on March 8th., the new Mayor says that before March 7th, his predecessor was running a council with no fiscal discipline:…:…
Bernard Wagner - Mayor, Belize City:
"Everybody was running a free for all, everyone - I'll give you some examples. Look at the categories. Overtime: budgeted 136,000 - spent 332,000, is there prudence there? Summer employment; this is when we employ youths - 20,000 budgeted - spent 44,000. Special portfolio allocation: budgeted 180,000 - spent 406,000. Donation: budgeted 72,000 - spent 163,000. This big one here, celebration and festivities, a lot of parties were going on here deputy. 96,000 - spent 455,000. Entertainment..."
New Mayor Says Tax/SSB Withholdings Were Not Paid By Predecessor
And while big money was being spent on entertainment, the new Mayor says his predecessors were not paying taxes or social security.:
Bernard Wagner - Mayor, Belize City:
"We want to point out there that this city council has not paid in the employee income tax deductions to GOB since August of 2017, totally almost 173,000 dollars. Social security 40,000 still owed and not paid in; deducted from the employee but not paid in, is this the way we run business? We also note that the council has been accumulating large GST liabilities by not paying the GST tax which is on the invoice for waste control; 2.4 million and Belize Maintenance Limited 2.7 million and you can check the auditor’s report, it's right there. See the note and read the note and comprehend the note; weak fiscal and financial management."
No More Property Tax Discounts?
And, as you can probably tell from his impatience with budget over-runs and fiscal indiscipline, the current mayor is a banker - and they do love that bottom line. And that’s why the mayor frowns on the long-established practice of giving discounts on prepaid property tax:
Bernard Wagner - Mayor, Belize City:
"We also found that there is an inefficient and ineffective method of tax assessment delivery and we also noted that the discount program is one of the chief drivers in eroding our capital base for the council, so we need to certainly look at that going forward. There is no need to give discounts; the council lose on an annual basis over 800,000 in discounts. The best incentive for paying taxes in my view is to give the tax payer value for money. We also need to look at revisiting the situation with the collection agents. We are currently 13 agents collecting taxes and it cost the council over 269,000 annually."
The Bouyant Bond
And, while the mayor hopes to get more recurrent revenue by trimming the discounts, where will he get money for capital projects? The mayor says they want to re-float that 20 million dollar municipal bond. That would mean rolling over the payments to bondholders that come due in the middle of this year - and paying them back on better terms over a slightly longer period. Deputy Mayor Oscar Arnold - also a banker - introduced that one:
Oscar Arnold - Deputy Mayor, Belize City:
"Mayor Wagner along with the rest of the city council team has pledged to look at re-floating the municipal bond but only and I stress to look at capital projects as well as projects that will create opportunities for the residence of Belize City. Whatever contracts that will be given out were the funds of the re-float will be issued will be above board and will be public knowledge."
CITCO Will Undertake Roadworks in Lake I
And one of the council’s first chanced to show that transparency is in its first major project, which is re-paving Holy Emanuel Street. That runs from La Croix Boulevard to Lake I Boulevard - which links to the new Chetumal Street Bridge. It’s a major road - which was poorly paved a few years ago - and now has to be re-done. Arnold says he expects that they will do a stellar and cost effective job of re-paving it:..
Oscar Arnold - Deputy Mayor, Belize City:
"Preliminary works have already started where the studies have been conducted for paving Holy Emmanuel Street. For those of you who don't know where Holy Emmanuel Street is located, it is the street that passes through the Gungulung area that connects La Croix Boulevard to the 3.8 million dollar calamity that is now known as the Lake I Boulevard. So we will show that we can pave this street at far less cost and better workmanship."
CARACOL - A Road Runs Through It
And while the city government hopes to pave that major street in Lake Independence, Central Government today signed off on a most ambitious road project in the Chiquibul.
It’s the Caracol Road upgrade project. The loan motion for the project was tabled at the senate last month, and, now, it will finally become a reality. Today the Government of Belize and the OPEC Fund for International Development signed off on the $40 million US project. With this road upgrade agreement, about 26.4 miles of gravel road will be upgraded to an all-weather, paved standard. Five double-lane reinforced concrete bridges will be constructed and the Georgeville and Santa Elena access roads to the Caracol archaeological site will be upgraded.
At the signing in Belmopan, The Director- General of OFID along with the Prime Minister spoke on the benefits of this collaboration.
Recognizing Resiliency
Yesterday we told you what Restore Belize is doing for boys aged 10 to 14 to keep them out of school and away from the gangs.
Well, the Community Rehabilitation Department under the Ministry of Human Development has been doing its part by making interventions for young people that have gotten into trouble with the law. Many of their clients face many challenges like being kicked out of school for committing crimes, so the Department assists them by enrolling them in programs to continue their education.
The Department observed the incredible progress their clients had made under difficult circumstances and decided to reward them in the “Youth Resiliency Awards” ceremony today at the Bliss Center. We were there this morning and found out more:…
Hand In Hand Hits the Big 3-5-0
Hand in Hand Ministries has officially distributed its 350th home in Belize. It’s a big accomplishment for them and their supporters. We stopped by today and spoke to some excited members of the Ministry, and of course the happy recipient.
The house has electricity and plumbing. It cost a total of $17,800 Belize Dollars to construct.
Inspector Ferrufino and The Collapsing Fraud Case
Last night, we told you about the strange twist in the case of the 3 Mexicans accused of fraudulently withdrawing tens of thousands of dollars from Atlantic Bank ATM’s across the country.
As we reported 26 year old Belen Hernandez and 31 year old Lionel Rodriguez went before Corozal Magistrate Patricia Arana yesterday. Lead investigator, Inspector Wilfredo Ferrufino, had to disclose that the cops had no evidence to provide the court so the 2 charges against them in that jurisdiction were thrown out. But before they could go anywhere, the cops had new charges against both.
Johnny Matus Wasn’t Hard To Find
And keeping it on news in Corozal, we asked police for details about the recapture of 19 year-old Johnny Matus, who was one of 3 prisoners who escaped from the police station’s holding cell 2 weeks ago.
Matus was found in his home village of San Narciso, and he has since been arrested, charged, and arraigned on the offense of escaping from lawful custody and damage to property.
Stormy Relationship Leads to Stabbing
And in our last story from today’s press conference, police shared the details about 19 year-old Herman Solis, who was stabbed by his common-law wife in Sandhill Village.
19 year-old Renesha Alvarez is in police custody for stabbing Solis in the upper left side of his chest near his heart. Alvarez has not been charged with any offenses as yet.
Hands To The Plow In Port
The Port Loyola Organization for Women – PLOW has been helping struggling women in the community for years. Well they finally have a proper facility to continue their outreach work. The Government of Belize and Opec Fund For International Development joined up to sponsor their new office. It was officially opened yesterday on Kraal Road and the Director General of OFID discussed the impact PLOW has had and will continue to have on Port women.
Suleiman Al-Herbish - Director- General, OFID
"Our motto, our slogan is Uniting Against Poverty, so poverty reduction is our mission. It’s a noble mission and, as you know, poverty has many aspects."
Channel 5
CitCo Reveals Heavy Misspending by Previous Administration
For the past three weeks, Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner has been hinting at the gross wastage of public funds at City Hall, during the time of the previous city [...]
Contractor Paid Within Hours of P.U.P. Election Victory
Perhaps equally as astounding was the processing of payment to one Belize City contractor in the immediate aftermath of the March seventh municipal elections. An invoice in the sum of [...]
Administrator’s Contract a “Reward” for Management
Of particular interest is that the expenses incurred by the Public Relations Department, as well as the office responsible for parks and playgrounds, kept mounting annually, with little or no [...]
Kemmar Wade is Latest City murder Victim
A twenty-seven-year-old customer service representative was ambushed and killed on Wednesday night in Belize City. Kemmar Edgar Wade was shot to the back of his head, rib cage, and left [...]
Trio Still on the Run for Oscar Rosado Murder
Businessman Oscar Rosado Senior was laid to rest today following funeral services in Belize City. But according to police, the hunt for his killers goes on. Three persons are sought [...]
Cops Also Seeking Killer of Patrick Crossdale
Fifty-five-year-old Patrick Crossdale, a Jamaican national residing in the Monument Site area of Dangriga Town, was ambushed on his way home on Tuesday near the Gulisi Primary School. A single [...]
Police Say Sample Taken from Downed Jet
The suspected drug plane that was found on the San Estevan/Progresso Road early on Tuesday morning has been removed and flown to the B.D.F. Air Wing across from the Phillip [...]
No Word on Fate of City Administrator; Councilors Restricted to Policy
Embattled City Administrator Candice Miller remains on suspension until early May when she is to return to office at City Hall. The revelations of extravagance under her watch makes for [...]
Belizeans First for City Concerts
Last Friday, the cost of the February tenth concert at B.T.L. Park, billed as a free entertainment event for the public, made headlines when it was disclosed that a whopping [...]
Brandon Cattouse Handed Provisional Suspension after Failed Drug Test
Cycling has been big in the news this week as the upcoming elections for the Cycling Federation were announced to be postponed. Tonight, there is more news to report from [...]
1 of 3 Corozal Prisoners Recaptured; Policeman also Charged
Nineteen-year-old Johnito Matus, one of three charged for burglary offenses, managed to hack his way out of the Corozal Police Station holding cell two weeks ago. Also going at large [...]
New Charges for ATM Theft Trio
In January a trio of Mexican nationals, including a husband and wife, were arraigned in the courts for theft of tens of thousands of dollars from two of several Atlantic [...]
Westar Cheque Cashers Sought
A Roaring Creek businessman has been robbed of over seventeen thousand dollars. According to the owner of Westar Gas Station in Roaring Creek, fifty-six-year-old Nelson Gallardo, sometime between March twenty-ninth [...]
2 Acquitted in Robbery
Two Belize City men, accused of robbery and wounding, were set free of the charges today after the complainant did not show up to the Magistrate’s Court. Twenty-six-year-old Matthew Smith, [...]
Fishermen Deny Violations in Court
When we report on court cases involving fisheries violations, it usually ends with a guilty plea and heavy fines. But two fishermen today chose to challenge the department on their [...]
Youths Recognized at ‘Resiliency Awards’
About a hundred at-risk youths were recognized today for staying the course despite their exposure to crime and other societal ills. Many had been caught up in the cycle of [...]
Another New House Handed Out by Hand in Hand Ministries
A Southside family of four received a brand new home from the Hand in Hand Ministries this afternoon. The mother of three children was approved for her new home on [...]
Money is Here for Caracol Road
Belize now has some eighty million dollars to work with from the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) for the Caracol Road Upgrading Project. Following approval from both chambers of [...]
Stella Maris Marks 60 Years
It stands alone as Belize’s all-purpose center for special education. But sixty years on from its humble beginnings, Stella Maris School still has many struggles and challenges. While it has [...]
Blue Balloons in the Air for Autism Awareness
Blue is a color in Belize mostly associated with the People’s United Party. But it also represents children living with the development condition known as autism. It affects how a [...]
ITVET Hosts Open Day
Today, visitors at the ITVET, Belize City, got the opportunity to experience the products and services made by students enrolled in the vocational and technical programs. Over four hundred students [...]
Healthy Living: Be Good to Your Liver
It’s an organ that we don’t typically think about. In fact, we only know something is wrong with it when it is severely damaged and usually it’s at its last [...]
LOVE FM
Belize CitCo updates on Social Infrastructure plans
As part of today’s press conference, the Belize City council updated the media with regards to its manifesto promises. Deputy Mayor Oscar Arnold focused the first half of his presentation on crime and what the council plans to do to help residents who are dealing with the loss of a loved one to gun violence. …
$80 million for the upgrading of the Caracol Road
The Government has secured a forty million US dollars loan from the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID). The monies have been earmarked for the upgrading of the Caracol Road. Phase One of the project will include the upgrading of 26.4 miles of graveled road to an all-weather, paved standard. Five double-lane reinforced concrete bridges …
Belize City Council says previous council overspent tens of thousands of dollars
Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner says that the previous council did not adhere to its budget and overspent tens of thousands of dollars on several goods and services, including concerts and a huge fuel bill for the City Administrator, Candice Miller. The newly elected Belize City Council summoned the media this afternoon to disclose what …
One of three escaped prisoners captured in Corozal
One of three prisoners who escaped police custody on April 11 in Corozal Town has been captured. Inspector Wilfred Ferrufino from the Crimes Investigation Branch in Belize City told the media today that he has been charged for escape and at least one officer attached to that formation has also been charged in connection with …
Still no arrest in murder of 55-year-old Jamaican in Dangriga
Police also continue their investigation into the murder of 55-year-old Jamaican national Patrick George Crossdale in Dangriga Town. Crossdale was shot and killed shortly after ten o’clock on Tuesday morning. Inspector Ferrufino says they have still not established a motive for his death. Inspector Wilfred Ferrufino, Crimes Investigation Branch: “Information is that he was on …
Victim of fatal shooting drives himself to the hospital before succumbing to injuries
Shortly after eleven o’clock on Wednesday night, a vehicle crashed in the Lion’s Club parking lot adjacent to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City. First responders initially believed that it was a traffic incident but, when medical personnel examined the body of the driver in the vehicle, they realized he had been shot. …
PlusTV
Oscar Rosado Sr. killed in store robbery
Oscar Rosado Sr. was killed this afternoon during a store robbery in Belize City. Rosado was at his store, Rosado’s Hardware, located near the Lord Ridge Cemetery in Belize City this afternoon around 1 p.m. We understand that three armed robbers entered and demanded money. During the robbery, Rosad...
PG MAN MURDERED IN BELIZE CITY
One man was murdered in Belize City over the weekend. Police reports are that on Friday night around 11 pm they responded to a report on Rectory Lane where they saw the motionless body of 25 year old Punta Gorda Resident Albert Johnson laying face up with 2 apparent gunshot wounds to the head. Poli...
Danny Mason’s lawyer makes no case submission on kidnapping charges
The Notorious William “Danny” Mason and the other men accused along with him appeared in court today. As the nation is fully aware, Mason and four other men from Roaring Creek, Ashton Vanegas, Keron Fernandez, Terrence Fernandez, and Ernest Castillo, are accused of the brutal murder of Pastor Llewe...
Pickup truck slams into moving house; one dead
A fatal road traffic accident claimed the life of a Belizean student over the weekend. Reports are that at about 3 o’clock on Saturday morning, 25 year old Daniel Urbina was driving a Toyota Hilux in the direction of Orange Walk when, at around mile 41,he collided into a wooden building being carri...
Accident on George Price Highway
There was a traffic accident outside of Belmopan, near Kiki Wittz Restaurant on Saturday afternoon. Plus News understands that a silver SUV with four passengers inside was heading in the direction of Belmopan to Belize City and turning left off the highway when a White Isuzu delivery truck that was ...
Body of Missing Man at Sea Found
The body of a man who was missing at sea has been found. On Friday we reported that there was an ongoing search for Leonel Velasquez who was reportedly headed to work at Turneffe Island Resort from Belize City on Thursday when he accidentally fell out of a boat. Reports are that his body was found ...
Uno gas station robbed in San Ignacio
There was a robbery in San Ignacio this afternoon. Police have not issued a report on this matter as yet but a witness pulled out his phone camera and captured two robbers running from the UNO gas station where the incident occurred. We understand that the incident happened sometime during lunch t...
Traffic accident victim succumbs to injuries
Last week we reported that Christian Charles was in critical condition at the KHMH after a suspected hit and run in Burrell Boom. The day after the incident, we spoke to a family member who sought the public’s assistance in donating blood for a surgery. Plus News understands that Christian Charles succumbed to his injuries at the KHMH around 5:30 a.m. this morning. Police told us more.
Gwen Liz Teachers Call in Sick
Last week Tuesday we reported that teachers at Gwen Lizarraga High school in Belize City staged a sit out protest. Teachers protested the Principal’s appointment of Alifah Elrington to the school Board. The teachers indicated that the protest was not a matter of the individual appointed but the lack of due process taken. Hon.Patrick Faber, Minister of Education visited the high school on the day of the protest to hear the concerns of the teachers.
Transport officer knocked down in Maskall Village
A Transport officer was crushed between a concrete house post, a bicycle and a Toyota RAV that was driven by a Chinese Business Woman. Reports are that yesterday around 2 a.m., police responded to a report in Maskall Village. Upon arrival at C&R’s shop, officers reportedly found Roderick Jones, a transport officer, motionless on the ground in front of the shop.
Rented car stolen in Belmopan
A Ford Explorer SUV was stolen in Belmopan on Friday Afternoon. Reports are that around 12:30 p.m on Friday, 26 year old Adriana Sedassey along with Jacklyn Pollard went to visit a friend on Antelope Street, Belmopan in a white Ford Explorer SUV Rental vehicle. Sedassey told police that they left the vehicle parked at the Corner of Antelope and Inez Streets, with the engine running.
Corozal man arrested for drug trafficking
Police found crack cocaine on a man in Corozal Town. Reports are that on Friday morning officers conducted a search on 39 year old Rios Normando in the South End Area of Corozal Town while they were on mobile patrol. The search resulted in the discovery of three grams of crack cocaine. Rios has since been detained by Police pending charges for DRUG TRAFFICKING.
Accident in Guinea Grass leaves one man hospitalized
Another accident was reported this weekend. On Friday April 20th at about 6:45 p.m., Police responded to a Traffic Accident at the junction of Guinea Grass Road junction. According to police reports, 50 year old Gerardo Mendoza, a Belizean of Orange Walk Town fell off the back of a green Nissan Pickup that was travelling from the direction of Orange Walk to Belize City.
Two separate robberies in Belize City
A Belize City Car dealer was robbed on Friday. 29 year old Winston James, Belizean car dealer of Belize City, reported that on April 20th at about 6:30 p.m., he was standing at the Corner of Nargusta and Sittie Street. That is when a known male person approached him and stole his gold chain valued $2,000. Police are investigating.
Belmopan Residents tour squatting for Earth Day
The residents of Belmopan who live in the East Picinni extension say they are committed to seeing the end of squatting that has been taking place in their vicinity over the last couple of months. Yesterday being Earthday, a group comprised of residents got together with 3 City Councillors; and walked through the Belmopan buffer that was being aggressed by squatters.
Police Department Launches ‘Internet Watch Belize Reporting Portal’
The Belize Police Department has launched a new way to battle Child Pornography in Belize. This morning personnel from the Belize Police Department made a guest appearance on our Rise and Shine morning show to inform the public of its new online portal where the public can make reports of online chi...
CCCU President Receives Key to City
Yesterday, the New Belize City Council Mayor Bernard Wagner welcomed the Caribbean Confederation of Credit Union to Belize City. A ceremony was held at City Hall where Mayor Wagner gifted Hally Hynes, President of the CCCU, with the keys to the city. Wagner told the media that this move is in line w...
Police Finds Cannabis in Seine Bights
Police officers found two plastic bags of cannabis while on foot patrol. Reports are that on Wednesday about 8:20 p.m. police officers were conducting a foot patrol in Seine Bight Village when they discovered two black plastic bags on the street side containing cannabis. The first bag contained a to...
Brian Hyde Guilty of Second Degree Murder
22 Year old Belizean Brian Hyde was found guilty of second degree murder, in a US Court. You might recall the gruesome murder of 17-year-old Starlette Pitts, her boyfriend Kelly, and her mother, 37-year-old Dorla Pitts back in August of 2015. Hyde was arrested after a Fort Myers police officer found...
Fatal Traffic Accident Claims Life
A fatal traffic accident on the Stann Creek Valley Road claimed the life of one man. Reports are that about 1:50 p.m yesterday, Police responded to a Road Traffic Accident between Mile 6 & 7 on, Stann Creek Valley Road. When Police arrived they saw the motionless body of 82 years old, Belizean F...
Law Making Forum 2018
The Belize Law-Making Forum 2018 was held yesterday and today at the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza. The Forum was hosted by The Attorney General’s Ministry in conjunction with the Office of the Prime Minister under the theme “Sound Policy for Better Law”. Attorney General Michael Perryfette tol...
New Coast Guard Facility in Southern Long Caye
Southern Long Caye in the Belize District has received a new and improved Coast Guard facility. The Minister of National Security Hon. John Saldivar accompanied by C.E.O Felix Enriquez, Rear Admiral John Borland Ministry of National Security personnel, and members of the Belize Coast Guard took a to...
Candice Pitts VS Gilroy Usher for Port
Doctor Candice Pitts, one of the 10 PUP Councilors holding office at City Hall in Belize City, has indicated that she will run in the 2020 General Elections as a PUP Standard Bearer for the Port Loyola Area. Pitts became well known during the campaign trail for her stories of selling Johnny Cakes as...
Belizean Students Trapped In Nicaragua
Several Belize students are trapped in Nicaragua as the country spirals downward into chaos. Thousands of demonstrators have taken to the streets in Managua, the capital, and other cities carrying out protests against the government of President Daniel Ortega of Nicaragua. The protests are now in th...
AG Says US Narcotic Reports Baseless, Unfair and Cowardly
On April 9th, in a released International Narcotics Control Strategy Report prepared by the Department of State for a Presidential report to Congress, Belize was identified as a major transit country for illicit drugs destined for the United States. In summary, the United States encouraged Belize to...
‘Re-Register and Vote’ says AG
The Belize/Guatemala land dispute has been the center of conversations for Belizeans home and abroad. Many of our nation’s leaders have weighed in on the matter in the aftermath of Guatemala referendum. The Attorney General was asked to comment on the dispute and the results of Guatemala’s referendu...
The Guardian
Orange Walk Town Council Broke
Things are slowly coming to a head in the PUP run municipalities. We are closely monitoring Belize City which by all indications will crash and burn sooner rather than later due to the poor fiscal management by that Municipality’s Mayor and Councilors.
In Orange Walk Town which is where the mismanagement is most evident due to the tenure of that council (6 yrs.), the workers are beginning to feel the pinch. Reports reaching the Guardian Newspaper is that the general workers of the Town Council, including street sweepers, garbage collectors, handy men, street repair crew men, etc. did not receive their weekly salary as is customary on Friday last.
Suspected Drug Jet lands in San Estevan
Another plane has been illegally landed in northern Belize, this time, it was on the San Estevan/Progresso Road. Again, there is suspicion that it was used to transport some sort of drug cargo, but there is no proof of that.
Aviation experts say that this is a British Aerospace 125, which is a twin-jet midsize business class aircraft. It has the ability to travel longer distances than the 6 other planes which have been discovered to have been illegally landed in Belize in the past 6 months. It also has the ability to carry a bigger cargo than those others, and in this instance, there were no seats found in the aircraft. That suggests that they were removed to increase the cargo capacity.
Oscar Rosado Sr. killed in robbery
Oscar Rosado Sr., the 70 year-old businessman and owner of Rosado’s Construction Supplies, was shot and killed inside his business establishment by robbers who pretended to be customers. They caught him and his family off-guard. This final robbery attempt at his business place was the third since 1999.
It happened at around 1:30p.m. at the Rosado Construction Supplies compound, located at the corner of Partridge Street and the George Price Highway. Rosado’s wife, Elena Rosado, told the press that minutes before his fatal shooting, 3 men entered their business place and ordered 2 pounds of nails. They were served, and the men exited, but according to Elena Rosado, they did not give off the vibe that they were legitimate customers. She began to suspect that they were robbers, using the business transaction to do some last-minute surveillance of the store.
Police say they have cracked the murder of Jason Belencio, a 30-year-old father of three, who was shot and killed on April 15, 2018. The murder of the loving father has left his friends, family, and even the wider population in grief. For this murder, the police have named a 16-year-old minor as the shooter. That minor has since been charged and arraigned at the Belize Family Court.
Cane testing for better sugar at BSI
It’s no secret to anyone that right now, the sugar cane farmers of the north are going through a tough transition in the sugar cane industry. Belize’s sugar is competing on an even playing field with sugar produced in the most technologically advanced countries in the rest of the world.
Since the changes to the European Union’s sugar market regime, Belize has lost preferential market access, and sugar produced here is competing directly with the sugar produced by the European beet farmers who can produce more sugar at a cheaper production price.
Maskall holds Agriculture Village Fair
There were over 5,000 persons in attendance at the Maskall Agriculture Village Fair on Sunday, April 22, 2018. The fair, which was held on the Maskall Community Grounds, was jointly hosted by Minister of Transport and NEMO, Hon. Edmond Castro, who is also the area representative for Belize Rural North, and the Maskall Village Council. Special guests and speakers at the opening ceremony included the Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Godwin Hulse, and Minister of State and Dangriga Area Representative, Hon. Frank “Papa” Mena.
AmbergrisCaye.com 
