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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
Charged with the murder of Jose Beltran, Luis Campos is set free
After being behind bars for three years, 26-year-old Luis Campos walked free from the charges of murder and conspiracy to commit murder in connection with the death of 42-year-old taxi driver Jose Rigoberto Beltran. Beltran was killed by a single gunshot while inside his taxi vehicle on April 28, 2015. Campos along with three other men (Mark Arzu, Alfredo Trapp, and Santos Garcia) were jointly charged for Beltran's death, but unexpectedly on Friday, May 11th after appearing in the court of justice before Supreme Court Justice Francis Cumberbatch, a 'noelle prosequi' was entered by Crown Counsel Killeru Awich on instruction from the Director of Public Prosecution, Cheryl Vidal. The formal notice means that the case has been abandoned by the plaintiff and therefore the Crown does not wish to proceed with the trial due to lack of evidence.
Scotiabank donates computers to Holy Cross Anglican School
The San Pedro Pirates Football Club held a press conference at the Ambergris Stadium VIP room in San Pedro Town, on Thursday, May 10th. During the conference, members of the media and invited guests were introduced to the new board of directors of the island football club.
Shortly after 4PM, Hector "Tito" Alamilla Jr., Councilor in charge of sports, welcomed everyone and explained the purpose of the conference. "The owner of the football club has approached us for administrative help with the club, and we have accepted the offer. We want to make the San Pedro Pirates a championship team that can represent Belize and why not - [we have] a state of the art stadium that can host top foreign teams," said Alamilla. He then introduced the new board of directors, which include Emeliano Rivero as President, Rocio Rivero as Secretary, Tony Maldonado, and Hector Alamilla Jr. as Managers, Eiden Salazar is in charge of Public Relations and Felipe Sansores as Marketing Agent.
San Pedro Pirates F.C introduces new board of directors
The San Pedro Pirates Football Club held a press conference at the Ambergris Stadium VIP room in San Pedro Town, on Thursday, May 10th. During the conference, members of the media and invited guests were introduced to the new board of directors of the island football club.
Shortly after 4PM, Hector "Tito" Alamilla Jr., Councilor in charge of sports, welcomed everyone and explained the purpose of the conference. "The owner of the football club has approached us for administrative help with the club, and we have accepted the offer. We want to make the San Pedro Pirates a championship team that can represent Belize and why not - [we have] a state of the art stadium that can host top foreign teams," said Alamilla. He then introduced the new board of directors, which include Emeliano Rivero as President, Rocio Rivero as Secretary, Tony Maldonado, and Hector Alamilla Jr. as Managers, Eiden Salazar is in charge of Public Relations and Felipe Sansores as Marketing Agent.
Disputed San Pedro Municipal Elections Trial Begins in Supreme Court
After the first court hearing on the controversial results of the 2018 San Pedro Town Municipal Elections on Wednesday, March 28th between the San Pedro United Democratic Party (UDP) and the San Pedro Peoples United Party (PUP) at the Supreme Court in Belize City, the case was scheduled to be heard on Monday, May 14th and Tuesday, May 15th. On Monday at the first hearing, witnesses from both parties and government are expected to be present and speak on the information that has been submitted. A verdict is expected to be delivered the following day.
Regardless of what the Supreme Court decides, PUP party leader Honourable John Brice�o has stated that they will accept and respect whatever decision is made.
Illegal Guatemalan encroachment continues to threaten the Chiquibul Forest
The illegal encroachment of Guatemalan peasants into the Belize Chiquibul National Park continues to escalate as new findings have confirmed agricultural activity up to 2.7 kilometers within Belizean territory. The protected area is situated in the Cayo District in western Belize and borders Guatemalan territory. The latest discovery was made by Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD) south of the national park in an area known as Cebada, revealing plantations of beans, corn, and bananas allegedly planted by Guatemalan farmers from nearby villages along the Belize-Guatemala border. It is alleged that after Guatemalans voted 'Yes' on the referendum to take the territorial dispute with Belize to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), many of the residents along the border have been informed that Belize is now Guatemalan territory, and that works are underway for them to start occupying parcels of land in the Chiquibul area.
Reef Fair 2018 Promotes Education and Conservation of the Reef and Marine Ecosystem
As part of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve Reef Week 2018, a Reef Fair was held at the Central Park in San Pedro Town on Thursday, May 10th. The Reef Fair saw various organization educating students and residents on the protection and conservation of marine life. Groups present at the fair included Oceana Belize, Reef Angels, Blue Ventures, American Crocodile Education Sanctuary, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development, Belize Forest Department, San Pedro House of Culture, La Isla Bonita Elementary, Department of the Environment, and Ricklee Rescue and Response.
At 9:30AM, the Reef Fair began as booths opened to the public highlighting topics such as the importance of protecting and preserving the Barrier Reef, as well as different wildlife and marine ecosystems. Students also had the opportunity to play games to win prizes, testing their knowledge about environmental topics. Throughout the fair, refreshments were served by the Hol Chan staff.
Ambergris Today
San Pedro Tour Operators Address Concerns To BTB
The San Pedro Tour Operator Association held a meeting on Wednesday, May 9, 2018, at the Sunbreeze Conference Room where they presented their financials to its members and discussed concerns with representatives of the Belize Tourism Board.
The Director of Cruise and Destination Planning, Mrs. Noriko Gamero was also present at the meeting where she address issues and concerns brought up by the SPTOA. Some of these issues included unlicensed tour operators, the lack of law enforcement/prosecution amongst other issues.
Youtuber Reports He Found Peter Pan's Neverland In Belize
The Jewel, Belize, is gaining lots of attention as a well-known Youtuber is reporting that he is found Peter Pan's Neverland in Belize. Sounds funny right, but for many Disney diehard fans this is one pretty awesome piece of news and to the Belize Tourism Board this is awesome exposure to our little country.
Youtuber Matthew Patrick has his your tube page names GameTheorist where he has a lot of videos on theories of games and several Disney inspired videos. This time around he chose Peter Pan's Neverland and has put together a video where he strongly believes that the Turneffe Atoll in Belize is Neverland.
San Pedro Is Ready To Play Some Serious Futbol
The San Pedro Pirates Futbol Club yesterday, Thursday, May 10, 2018, made a special announcement of the introduction of a new managing team, coach and coaching staff which they are positive will lead them to victory in the upcoming Premier League of Belize (PLB) soccer competition.
President and owner of the San Pedro Pirates, Emiliano Rivera has formed a committee with members how have various skills in different areas of the sport. He is joined by his wife as secretary of the club and by Tony Maldonado and Hector Alamialla as Co-Managers, Felipe Sansorez as Marketing Manager and Eiden Salazar in Public Relations.
Pirates have participated in two season of PLB reaching as far at the top four teams in the competition. The new managing committee is promising a stronger soccer team for San Pedro that is more disciplined, serious, prepared, trained and community minded.
Misc Belizean Sources
Finals of the PLB cancelled
The championship game which was to be played on Saturday,12th May, 2018 at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium has been cancelled after results of the appeal match between Verdes FC and BDF FC. As stated on document attached, the game of 29th of April,2018 will be replayed. Also note that Bandits SC has qualified for the Finals of the PLB Closing Season and will be awaiting for the winner between Verdes FC & BDF FC, replay match date and time to be announced.
An apprentice of Dr. Elijio Panti: Silverio Canto "Teacher Sil"
Are the Maya dead? Did they disappear? Those are some questions that academics have debated over the years. However, I consider Silverio Canto as part of the answer to the question. Silverio is living proof of the continuity of Maya lineages and identity in Belize. A celebrated community activist, teacher and church leader, he continues to practice many Maya traditions in our piece of heaven.
One of the apprentices of Don Elijio Panti, Silverio has a wealth of knowledge about herbal healing. His knowledge about Maya traditions extends from herbal medicine, to the teaching of the Yucatec Maya language and the practice of sacred Maya ceremonies. Mr. Canto's awareness of traditional practices has attracted the attention of many scholars and students who visit him to learn about "we", the Maya. He has featured in many documentaries and has shared some of the contemporary practices of the living Maya.
Currently, Mr. Canto owns and manages a restaurant where he sells Belizean food. His family greets their customers with a smile in a pleasant environment. His business not only identifies with Maya practices but is also an example of the economic opportunities in our community.
Caribbean Culture and Lifestyle: The Belize Edition Summer Issue
In January of this year, McNab Publishing released a brand new travel magazine called Carribean Culture and Lifestyle: The Belize Edition. The magazine focuses on Belizean travel, culture, and lifestyle. Today, the Belize City based publishing house released another edition of the CCL magazine, this time with different destinations and cultural pieces. We visited this morning's launch and found out more about the new issue.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Conducts Diplomatic Briefing on ICJ Referendum Public Awareness Campaign
Today, May 11th, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs held a Diplomatic Briefing on Belize's Public Awareness Campaign in preparation for the referendum on the referral of the Belize-Guatemala Dispute at the Ministry of Agriculture Conference Room, National Agriculture and Trade Show Grounds in Belmopan.
The presentation was delivered to representatives of the British High Commission, embassies and international and regional organizations resident in Belize. Representatives of the diplomatic community were given an overview of the Belize Public Awareness Campaign Plan of Action by His Excellency Alexis Rosado, Ambassador of Belize to Guatemala.
Notice to all Justices of the Peace
The Attorney General's Ministry informs that all Justices of the Peace, including Senior Justices of the Peace, must contact the Ministry to verify their JP status before July 31, 2018. This exercise is being carried out in preparation for the upcoming re-registration process by the Elections and Boundaries Department.
All Justices of the Peace are required to provide some form of proof of their status. Those who fail to verify their status will no longer be able to use their JP title. Persons can either visit the office of the Attorney General in Belmopan or contact the office via email at [email protected].
Ten commandments of no to the ICJ
The Belize Progressive Party (BPP) as a part of its 8867 territorial integrity pillar and its 'No to the ICJ' Campaign, has developed its ten commandments, which it is releasing as a part of its accelerated public awareness initiative on the subject.
1. Thou shalt not sacrifice one single solitary square centimeter to the enemy
� Belize was 8,867 sq miles yesterday, is 8,867 sq. miles today and shall be 8,867 sq. miles tomorrow and the day after, ad infinitum!
2. Thou shall not cast on the water thy birthright for a gamble in a foreign land of uncertain devices
� We have inherited this beautiful and precious jewel of a country from our forefathers and we must not under any circumstance run the risk of losing it to a game of chance!
Channel 7
PUP Citco Suggests Disgruntled Ex Employees Behind "Domestic Terrorism"
"Domestic Terrorism" - that's what the Belize city council is calling the attempt to set Sharlene Rudon's vehicle on fire. Rudon is the Human Resources manager at the council and the person who signed the majority of the termination letters that went out on Tuesday. On Wednesday night, someone threw a molotov cocktail at her Ford Escape parked in front of her home - fortunately it did not catch - and the vehicle received only slight damage.
It's a very disturbing event - and last night at minutes before newstime the City Council put out a very strongly worded statement, saying, quote: "It was clearly a deliberate and dangerous act of arson, and there can be no doubt that it is directly related to the recent restructuring of the Council which has resulted in the termination of five employees....
The Council condemns this reprehensible act which we view as no less than domestic terrorism, carried out no doubt by an agent or agents acting on behalf of one or more of the persons terminated."
Former Citco Employee Rejects "Terror" Narrative
Today we asked Cecil Jenkins for his response to the statement - which casts a very serious allegation on him and the other 5 persons who were terminated. Jenkins said it is a reckless and baseless claim which damages his reputation:...
Cecil Jenkins Sr., Terminated from City Hall:
"Jules when they're painting you as a domestic terrorist, those things can condemn your life on a whole. Anyone of us, on behalf of me, if they say something like that incriminating you like that, your professional ways of dealing with people. You going to walk to another business, and apply for a job, how will they look at us? I can attest that I Cecil Jenkins have nothing to do with any kind of arson to Miss Rudon or to condemn anyone's life. Whosoever has done such an act I believe that such things should have never happened? I hope that no one is taking what we're going through for their own purpose. I condemn such act and I don't believe in things like that. I am a believer of the law..."
Deputy Mayor Stands By Firings
Jenkins was the former Sanitation Manager - until he was sent home on Tuesday. As recently as December 2016, he had been awarded Employee of the Year in his department. Similarly, the terminated Shanna White was employee of the year for 2016 and 2017 in the Parks and Playgrounds unit - until she was sent home.
Today we asked the Deputy Mayor to defend the firings:...
Jules Vasquez, reporter:
"How do you answer the criticism specifically from the CWU that you guys did not observe due process in dealing with their members?"
Oscar Arnold, Deputy Mayor - Belize City:
"I would have to check with our HR professionals to really give you an idea of what the due process was or if it was or wasn't. I believe it did. I know that people are really, heavily looking at the dismissals, but there is another part of the restructuring. There were actually human resources that were move from one unit to the other unit as well, because that also forms part of restructuring - trying to get people in areas where they can provide value, where they weren't maybe doing it before."
Fired Workers Believes In Union Leader
But the Christian Workers Union which represents two of the six employees does have that moral authority. Today Cecil Jenkins told us he is confident in the union and the impartiality of its President Mose Hyde:...
Reporter:
"Do you retain full confidence in your union?"
Cecil Jenkins Sr., Terminated from City Hall:
"Jules I have high respect for the Mose Hyde, I believe that he is an honorable man regardless if he is the brother of Cordel Hyde or the brother in law of Mayor Wagner, but on the 4th of May, the union members executive body had a meeting with all members of the Belize City council at 1:30 that afternoon..."
Killed Trying To Catch Chain-Snatcher
A Las Flores man was killed trying to recover a woman's stolen chain. This morning around 2:00, 23 year old Luis Monge and his friends among other La Cabana club-goers were finishing up their night of partying. It was closing time. While they were outside, a man in the crowd snatched a woman's gold chain and ran off. Monge and his 19 year old friend Dennis Monterrosa chased after the chain snatcher. There was a struggle among the men and that is when the robber stabbed Monge to his arm. Monterrosa was cut to his head. Monge was rushed to the hospital but he didn't make it. Police recovered the knife from the scene. Police also have the alleged robber detained. He was caught on the scene after police fired a warning shot to break up the fight. We should note that this suspect was recently charged in a high profile robbery in Belmopan. Our information is that Monge leaves behind two children.
Wife Not Satisfied With Alleged Killer's Story
A guilty conscience is a terrible thing. As we told you last night police charged 45 year old Albert Jones for Alaine Garcia's murder. Now normally there has to be a dead body for it to be a murder but in this case Jones allegedly admitted to killing Garcia. He told police he confessed because Garcia was 'haunting him' and it was just weighing on his conscience. But although Jones has been charged, Garcia's common law wife of 15 years, Kellyn Neal is not satisfied. She says Jones' story does not add up. Neal asks how did Jones kill Garcia, chop him up and then dump his body parts in a pond by himself and in broad day light? Neal shared more about her questions and concerns.
Kellyn Neal, Common-Law-wife:
"At first I felt satisfied because it is not usual that someone would confess to a murder. But after getting the details of what happened and putting everything together it. I am pleased that someone confessed but it is not adding up because I don't see how that person could have confessed to that and how he alone could have killed Alaine..."
Alleged Killers Gets Off
He was one of the four accused in a sensational broad daylight murder on San Pedro in 2015 - but, tonight, 26 year old Luis Campos is free after another "nolle pros".
He was charged with murder and conspiracy to commit murder of 42 year old San Pedro Town taxi driver Jose Beltran. Today Crown Counsel Killeru Awich entered the "nolle pros" motion on instruction from the Director of Public Prosecutions, Cheryl Vidal. The reason? A lack of evidence. Three other men are still charged for the offence. They are Mark Arzu, Santos Garcia and Alfredo Trapp.
Police found Beltran dead in his taxi van on April 28, 2015. He had been tied up and shot in the head. Police believe that he was killed because his assailants wanted to use his vehicle to carry out a crime. Campos was represented by attorney Leeroy Banner.
GOB Falls To Ashcroft Alliance Again
For 3 days now, Justice Courtney Abel has been listening to arguments on the last court fight over money connected to the half a billion dollar settlement over BTL.
The judge is being asked to determine who should - and shouldn't - have been paid over 114 million dollars out of the entire amount.
The Government controlled company, Sunshine Holdings Limited, is claiming that the amount should have been paid to them, and that the Barrow Government wrongly paid it to the former owners, Dean Boyce and the Trustees of the BTL Employees Trust.
When it was an Ashcroft Company, Sunshine held over 11 million shares in BTL. All that changed in 2009, when the Government nationalized the telecoms company. In one fell swoop, the Government acquired all of those shares, and it also took over Sunshine itself.
Men Charged For Beating Pott, Lawyer Says Injuries Arise From Crash
Tonight, Demetrio Pott remains in critical condition at the KHMH and today in Corozal town, three men were charged for causing his injuries. Carlos Westby, Deltran Perez, and Leodigario Chan were charged for dangerous harm of Demetrio Pott, while Westby and Chan alone were charged for wounding Pott's brother, Adan.
It happened on April 27th. When the Pott's crashed into a vehicle in Trial Farm and the three men allegedly beat them down. Today outside Corozal Magistrate's Court, their attorney said it's the impact of the accident, not any beating which has Pott on life support in the hospital.
Family Of Fourteen Homeless After Fire
Tonight a family of fourteen is without a home. Early this morning the family's home on Iguana Street was destroyed by a fire. The residents all managed to escape unharmed but they lost everything. The fire department responded quickly but it seems they were not able to stop the fire from spreading, not because the blaze was too big, but because the fire truck had an unforeseen mechanical issue. Assistant Fire Chief Matura told us that the failure was not something they could have predicted.
Benisford Matura, Assistant Fire Chief:
"We arrived at number 7007 Iguana Street and found a two storey structure totally engulfed in flames. The upper flat was engulfed in flames. We got into operation and started to extinguish the fire but our unit experienced a mechanical failure with the pumping and could not discharge the second unit's water on the fire, so hence the reason we had to use only one unit to extinguish the fire."
Foreign Affairs Briefing Friends On ICJ Process
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs today held a diplomatic briefing today with the diplomatic corps on their plan of action for the Public Awareness Campaign leading up to Belize's ICJ referendum on the Belize-Guatemala territorial dispute.
It took place at the Ministry of Agriculture's Conference Room at the Show Grounds in Belmopan.
The briefing was held with representatives of the British High Commission, embassies, and international and regional organizations resident in Belize. At the head table were Foreign Affairs Minister Wilfred Elrington, CEO Pat Andrews, and Alexis Rosado, the Belize Ambassador to Guatemala.
They were given an overview of the Belize Public Awareness Campaign Plan of Action.
Belize Security Team Invited To Israeli Exhibit
As a jewish nation at odds with many of its Islamic neighbors, Israel has made an industry of exporting its security expertise. And now some of that may be coming to Belize.
According to a release from the Israeli Embassy in Mexico, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Edward Broaster, BDF Captain Roberta Usher, along with Lieutenant Ray Good from the Coast Guard all attended the sixth seminar on Homeland Security and Cyber Emergency Management in Mexico.
The release says the group was able to see the latest technologies in cyber security and defense from 25 different Israeli Companies.
The group ended by having a meeting with the Israeli Ambassador to Belize Jonathan Peled.
Murder Victim's Relative Speaks
Earlier in the news, we told you about 23 year-old Luis Monge, who was stabbed to death at the end of their night of partying at the La Cabana Bar in Belmopan.
He and his 19 year-old friend tried to chase down a chain snatcher. They ended up in a struggle with the assailant, and he was fatally stabbed in the arm.
Now, he has a grieving family, blindsided by his sudden demise.
Our colleagues, Our Colleagues from Plus TV News spoke with his cousin today, and here's what she had to say:
A Magazine Showcasing and Celebrating Tourism
In January of this year, McNab Publishing released a brand new travel magazine called Carribean Culture and Lifestyle: The Belize Edition. The magazine focuses on Belizean travel, culture, and lifestyle. Today, the Belize City based publishing house released another edition of the CCL magazine, this time with different destinations and cultural pieces. We visited this morning's launch and found out more about the new issue.
Tanya McNab, McNab Visual Creative Director:
"Traditionally we had been introducing the magazine once a year and we found that before you know it, it becomes a bit dated. It is not as current, businesses change, things change, and so we thought that if we were to do something that was produced every three to four months that we would be able to put out better content, more relevant more up to date, and things like that so we said it is traditionally not what we do but we are going to try. It has been a learning curve for us in producing so quickly but we are getting there."
PUP Senator Questions Immigration Split
Earlier in the news, we showed you our interview with Eamon Courtenay as he emerged victorious in the latest lawsuit between the Ashcroft Alliance and Sunshine Holdings Limited.
The press also asked him for comments as PUP Senator on a recent law that was passed. It splits the Immigration Department into 2. One section will be in charge of granting Nationality and Passports, and another section will be responsible for "immigration and border management".
Courtenay gave his opinion that this change will weaken the checks and balances at the Immigration Department. As viewers will remember vividly, that department has been wracked with scandals which culminated last year in the 13 month long Senate Hearings on Immigration.
Here's how he questioned whether or not the Government was listening to a major complaint from the public servants who testified in those hearings:
Senator Showdown In Albert?
And while Senator Courtney is not aspiring for elected office, the two other PUP senators seem as if they may be vying against each other. Persistent and credible reports out of the PUP are that Senator Valerie Woods is contemplating a run against the PUP caretaker for the Albert Division, Senator Paul Thompson.
It's not yet confirmed and Woods has not submitted her name - but we know she has been canvassing heavily for support within the party. Woods grew up in the Albert division. For his part, Thompson might have expected some protection from a challenge since he was the campaign manager for the PUP City Council slate which pulled off a huge upset in the March 7th elections. But, that seems unlikely - as there are elements within the PUP leadership who are pushing for him to be replaced by a woman candidate.
Compelling, but still, it's all speculative and today, the divisional Chairman Oscar Arnold wouldn't say much:..
Micah Makes Up
At the end of April, PUP City Councillor Micah Goodin made news when he came out and blasted his Mayor, Bernard Wagner on Facebook. Goodin went on a rant, threatened resignation…the whole nine yards.
And, now, in a familiar pattern he has posted an apology for his rash words - saying he supports the mayor…no doubt only chapter one, in a city council soap opera, with Goodin as the conductor.
Today, the Deputy Mayor said it's a case of no harm, no foul:…
Deputy Mayor On Candice Firing
And while the Goodin matter was ironed out in-house - the case of the terminated City Administrator Candice Miller will have to be resolved in court.
Miller's four year contract was terminated for "gross dereliction of duty" - and she has challenged that in an interview with 7NEws.
So, why was she terminated? Today the Deputy Mayor said it's because of the actions of the previous mayor:...
Oscar Arnold, Deputy Mayor - Belize City:
"Think that the previous mayor acted irresponsibly as well and he put the microscope on duly on the ex-city administrator, because agreeing to 4 year contract passes the time of the council doesn't give the new council coming in to really evaluate what's going on or what was happening with the city administrator. You signed a contract even before another one was expired. That's just irresponsible. So he put her on duly under the microscope."
Candice Says Contract Not Unusual
And we did ask Miller about that - the timing of her contract, renewed for four years in September of 2017 , just 6 months before an election.
Here's how she explained it:
Candice Miller, Former City Admin.:
"Mayor and then I get it. It's not parked while I am at my office."
Jules Vasquez, reporter:
"Now much has been made about this contract that Mayor Bradley had overstep his moral authority. He was within his legal authority, but to tie the life of another council into this city administrator was unfair to the incoming council. So it was treated as something that was corrupt and what would be called exceptionable - he shouldn't have done that."
Hopeful Hoops
And finally tonight, taking a break from all that politics, the Ahmadiyya Basketball League Belize is having its finals on Sunday. They've gone large by renting out the civic center for the event. And that's because they're expecting company: two bus loads of Mexican fans coming to support their team. We learned more from the organizers today:…
The event runs from midday to four on Sunday and the public is invited.
Channel 5
Ain't No Sunshine: Gov't Company Shut Out of B.T.L. Compensation
After three days of litigation, Supreme Court Justice Courtney Abel issued a comprehensive judgment against Sunshine Holdings Limited's claim for compensation, in respect of shares it owned in Belize Telemedia [...]
G.O.B. Now on the Hook for Money Owed to S.S.B.
The case was comprehensively lost, but did Sunshine really lose anything? Not according to Justice Abel. He found that the company had been fully relieved by its owner, the government, [...]
Is B.T.L. Litigation Over?
So at long last, is it over? The now nearly nine-year saga of Telemedia's acquisition by government started in August of 2009 and effectively concluded with the settlement in 2015. [...]
Deputy City Mayor Defends Terminations as Part of Restructuring
The Belize City Council has broken its silence on the dismissal of six employees earlier this week, including City Administrator Candice Miller.� While the writings were on the wall for [...]
CitCo Ready for Litigation over Firings
Sacking Candice Miller, whose contract as city manager extends to 2021, and several of her colleagues from City Hall, has likely exposed the Belize City Council to litigation.� Those lawsuits [...]
Council Concerned over HR Director Vehicle Firebombed
The torching of Human Resources Manager Sharlene Rudon's vehicle continues to be investigated as a criminal matter.� The Ford Escape SUV was scorched by a firebomb on Wednesday night while [...]
In Belmopan, Stolen Chain Leads to Fatal Stabbing
A Roaring Creek resident is tonight in police custody, following an early morning murder in Belmopan. Reports are that as police were closing up shop at La Cabana Night Club, [...]
Homeowner Blames Fire Service for Lost House; Firefighters Say Illegal Connection Overloaded
An early morning blaze completely destroyed a wooden home on the south side of Belize City. But tonight the question is - did those fourteen persons, nine adults and five [...]
Fire Service Working to Maintain 'Dated' Fleet
Deputy Fire Chief Benisford Matura has spoken on the dated fleet of trucks - and how it slowed them down from carrying out the kind of fire-fighting needed to save [...]
SUV Burns on North Creek
Sometime after midnight on Thursday, an SUV belonging to Melanie Staine was observed on fire on North Creek in Belize City. The Fire Department was called out to extinguish the [...]
Micah Goodin Apologizes; CitCo Back Together
An olive branch, in an attempt to mend a somewhat broken relationship between Councilor Micah Goodin and Mayor Bernard Wagner, has been extended via an online apology on Thursday.� The [...]
Pitts' Pique a Matter for Central P.U.P.
So how does the council feel about Doctor Candice Pitts who took a somewhat similar aim at her own party after being asked to step aside in Port Loyola in [...]
Government Ready to Meet with Teachers on Collective Bargaining Agreement
The Collective Bargaining Agreement between the Government of Belize and three of the unions is a matter that is still on the table.� The Public Service Union, the Belize National [...]
G.O.B. Accepts ex-Contractor General's Reports
On Thursday, the DPM also gave us an update on the Contractor General. If you'll recall, Godwin Arzu's contract was not renewed and his replacement has not been announced.� Arzu [...]
Thinking of Summer with Arts Camp
On Thursday, the Belize District Art Showcase opened at the Mexican Institute in Belize City. The two-week exhibition features art pieces from students in pre-school, primary and high schools. The [...]
The Problem with Split Immigration Department
Earlier this year, amendments to the Immigration, Belizean Nationality and Passports Acts passed through the National Assembly. Collectively, they proposed to divide the functions related to immigration and nationality services, [...]
Diplomats Meet with Foreign Affairs on Referendum Campaign
The countdown is on to next April's referendum in Belize on the referral of the Belize-Guatemala Dispute to the International Court of Justice. The public awareness campaign is being stepped [...]
Appeal Reversed for B.D.F. in Football Dispute
An unorthodox decision by the Football Federation of Belize Appeals Committee is throwing a wrench in the Premier League of Belize Championship Finals. Last week, we reported about a protest [...]
Caribbean Culture and Lifestyle Magazine Launched
Caribbean Culture and Lifestyle launched its second edition today. The magazine, published by McNab Visuals, will be used to promote travel and culture locally and regionally. �It goes to print [...]
Best Youth Athletes Converge for Championship
The National Sports Council held its annual national track and field championships at the Marion Jones Stadium in Belize City today. Over two hundred students, the best of the best [...]
LOVE FM
City Hall bosses concerned over safety of staff
But it seems that the troubles at City Hall are many. On Wednesday night, the vehicle of the Council's Director of Administration, Sharlene Rudon was set on fire. While Rudon and her family managed to intervene in time to save the vehicle, the incident has raised concerns at City Hall. In a statement issued Thursday �
Ahmadiyya Muslim Community to hold basketball tournament
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is having its basketball finals this Sunday at the Civic in Belize City. Basketball teams from Belize and Mexico will converge to prove that they are the best team of their category. President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Naveed Mangla shared why you should attend Sunday's game. Naveed Mangla, President of the �
Patrick Faber has his eyes on the UDP Leadership
Patrick Faber says he still has hopes to lead the United Democratic Party. The Deputy Prime Minister is also the Deputy Party leader of the UDP and he has his eyes set on the leadership. Since Prime Minister Dean Barrow will not seek re-election, he will step down as Party Leader giving way to a �
Education Minister will meet with teachers
Minister of Education Patrick Faber says he will meet with the Belize National Teachers Union to discuss new concerns as part of a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). The parties have not been able to conclude the negotiation for a new CBA and the BNTU has written to Minister Faber requesting a meeting. Yesterday Faber told �
Ain't no sunshine for Sunshine Holdings as Justice Abel dismisses case
Today Justice Courtenay Abel dismissed a claim brought by Sunshine Holdings Limited against the Government of Belize and the BTL Employees Trust. The claim is connected to the half a billion dollars settlement that GOB had to cough up for the nationalization of Belize Telemedia Limited. It's a very interesting, complex and as Justice Abel �
Nepal Citizens flagged as high risk
On Tuesday, two citizens of Nepal, a country in Southeast Asia landed on a Copa flight at the Phillip Goldson International Airport. These two persons were deemed as potential security risk however they still managed to set feet on Belizean soil. We understand that three persons from the Immigration Department are being investigated for allegedly �
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Belize City Man Shot While Sleeping
There was another shooting in the Jane Usher Area of Belize City. According to reports, 50 year old Merrick Lambey was sleeping on the sofa in his living room when a male person entered through his front door and fired about 5 shots in his direction. Police told us more at this morning's press brief...
Dennis Matura walks from murder charge
24 year old Dennis Matura has been freed of murder charges. Matura was accused of the Aril, 2012 murder of Michael James Garbutt who was gunned down execution style on Albert Street. It was a broad daylight killing, where Garbut was shot as many as five times, including a bullet to the head. The s...
Albert Jones confesses to murdering missing man
A Hattieville resident, 45-year-old Albert Jones Senior, is on remand tonight after police say he confessed to the murder of a man who has been reported missing. Jones was arraigned this evening for the murder of Alaine Garcia, a Mechanic and father of Hattieville Village. Now, Garcia has been ...
CITCO Director of Admin's vehicle torched
The vehicle of the Belize City Council's Director of Administration, Sharlene Rudon, was torched on Wednesday night. Rudon told police that sometime around 11 p.m., her car was parked in front of her King's Park home when someone lit it fire. Rudon is the person who signed the termination letters of...
PATRICK FABER ADDRESSES CITCO TERMINATIONS
And still on the subject of termination of City Council Employees, yesterday, the Belize City Council issued an official press release stating in part, quote, 'after more than two months reviewing of the departmental structure, with the desired objective of fostering efficiency and effectiveness, t...
Drugs were coming from Guatemala to Belize city
Yesterday we reported that San Ignacio Police intercepted a blue Great Wall Wingle rental pick up in Teakettle Village carrying a total of 26.429 kg of Cannabis. Upon seeing the cops, the driver of the vehicle attempted to evade the police and collided into a hill. The occupants of the vehicle jumpe...
FABER SPEAKS ON CHIQUIBUL ENCROACHMENT ACTIVITIES
Yesterday we reported that FCD rangers discovered a complex array of clear encroachment activities in the area of the reserve better known as South Cebada. The rangers reportedly came across fresh survey lines, plantations of beans, corn, and bananas planted by Guatemalan farmers. Rangers were also ...
Belize City Man Shot While Sleeping
There was another shooting in the Jane Usher Area of Belize City. According to reports, 50 year old Merrick Lambey was sleeping on the sofa in his living room when a male person entered through his front door and fired about 5 shots in his direction. Police told us more at this...
Dennis Matura walks from murder charge
24 year old Dennis Matura has been freed of murder charges. Matura was accused of the Aril, 2012 murder of Michael James Garbutt who was gunned down execution style on Albert Street. It was a broad daylight killing, where Garbut was shot as many as five times, including a...
Albert Jones confesses to murdering missing man
A Hattieville resident, 45-year-old Albert Jones Senior, is on remand tonight after police say he confessed to the murder of a man who has been reported missing. Jones was arraigned this evening for the murder of Alaine Garcia, a Mechanic and father of Hattieville Village...
CITCO Director of Admin's vehicle torched
The vehicle of the Belize City Council's Director of Administration, Sharlene Rudon, was torched on Wednesday night. Rudon told police that sometime around 11 p.m., her car was parked in front of her King's Park home when someone lit it fire. Rudon is the person who signed the...
PATRICK FABER ADDRESSES CITCO TERMINATIONS
And still on the subject of termination of City Council Employees, yesterday, the Belize City Council issued an official press release stating in part, quote, 'after more than two months reviewing of the departmental structure, with the desired objective of fostering efficiency...
Drugs were coming from Guatemala to Belize city
Yesterday we reported that San Ignacio Police intercepted a blue Great Wall Wingle rental pick up in Teakettle Village carrying a total of 26.429 kg of Cannabis. Upon seeing the cops, the driver of the vehicle attempted to evade the police and collided into a hill. The occupants...
FABER SPEAKS ON CHIQUIBUL ENCROACHMENT ACTIVITIES
Yesterday we reported that FCD rangers discovered a complex array of clear encroachment activities in the area of the reserve better known as South Cebada. The rangers reportedly came across fresh survey lines, plantations of beans, corn, and bananas planted by Guatemalan...
Who's footing the bill for Teacher's Day celebrations?
A National Teacher's day celebration is scheduled for May 18th at the new Belize Civic Center, but who will foot the bill? Teacher's day is celebrated annually on different levels using a cycle of celebration. On the first year, teacher's day is celebrated on the school level,...
LA RIVERA' COMMUNITY WANTS SQUATTERS REMOVED
Over the past few weeks, Plus News has been following the Mount Pleasant Creek Squatting issue in Belmopan. The issue caught the eyes and ears of the nation and many Belizeans took to social media to voice their concerns. After the issue raised national concern, the Belmopan City...
INDEPENDENCE VILLAGE LAND ISSUES
Land dispute issues are also brewing in Independence Village between its community members and the Village Council. According to reports, villagers of Independence Village are infuriated following a village council meeting that went 'south' last night. According to information reaching Plus News, during an Independence Village Council meeting on Wednesday night, villagers questioned Village Council members about a De-reserved area of land located between Independence Village and Punta Gorda junction.
TWO BUSES STOLEN FROM ROMERO'S CHARTER SERVICES
Last week Friday we reported that a stolen bus overturned on the Southern Highway. While information was sketchy at the time, Plus News now understands that the overturned bus was the property of Romero's Charter Service
located in Cattle Landing village. However, the over turned bus was not the only bus stolen. A second bus was also stolen from the Charter Service Company that same Thursday morning.
Police update on Eric Mendez house shooting
On Tuesday we told you that 20 year old Eric Mendez had been arraigned on the charge of attempted murder. Mendez is the accused gunman who shot Tyrone Stevens several times on Sunday while Stevens went to a store to purchase. Yesterday we reported that while Mendez is on remand at the Hattieville prison, gunmen opened fire on his home in the Jane Usher area on Monday night and it is believed to be directly connected to the Tyrone Stevens case. Police told the media what happened on Monday night.
More Drugs; more guns
The war on drugs is a daunting one and seems to have intensified following the decriminalization of marijuana late last year. This morning, police conducted a search on 19 year old Alexander Steven Castillo and found 464 grams of compressed cannabis in his school bag. Castillo was then taken to his home where cops found more weed under his mattress...
JOINT COMMISSION DEFINES BILATERAL AGREEMENT IMPLEMENTATION ROAD MAP
Yesterday the Belize Guatemala Joint Commission met for the second time this year in Guatemala City. The meeting was headed by the Ambassador of Belize in Guatemala H.E. Alexis Rosado, the Ambassador of Guatemala in Belize H.E. Georges de La Roche; and Mr. Manuel Washington Abdala, Special Representative of the Secretary General of the OAS for the Belize-Guatemala affairs.
BELMOPAN LION'S CLUB OFFERS FREE OPTOMETRY EXAMINATIONS
For the past 4 days, the Lions Club in Belmopan has been partnering with Optometrists from the Southern College of Optometry in the U.S. to offer eye examinations to residents of Belmopan and surrounding villages. The eye clinic began on Monday morning at the Lion's Building in Belmopan and concluded earlier this evening. Plus News Spoke to Mike Thomas, a member of the Lion's Club in Belmopan who told us more about the Clinic.