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Posted By: Marty Today's Belize News: October 11, 2018 - 10/11/18 12:15 PM


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Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, and other specials


The San Pedro Sun

Guatemala includes Belize's map in official government advertisements and new drivers' licenses
The Guatemalan territorial claim on Belize continues aggressively, as the neighboring country continues to promote their rights over Belizean territory. The Guatemalan government has on several occasions openly stated that they do not recognize borders between both countries and remains to include Belize annexed to their map in official propaganda and documents. The most recent incident involves an advertisement posted on their government's official Facebook account, showing Belize as part of Guatemala, while samples of their new designs for drivers' licenses also include Belize as an additional Guatemalan department. The issue is expected to be resolved at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) if citizens of both countries vote to take the matter there via a referendum. Guatemala held its referendum in April of this year voting to take the claim to the ICJ, while Belize will hold its referendum in April of 2019.

First-ever Diving Accident Management Conference held in San Pedro Town
Ambergris Caye was the setting for the first ever diving accident management conference with the aim to better-prepare tour operators and medical personnel in evaluating diving illnesses and teaching the proper procedures to handle a diving emergency. The event was held at the Banyan Bay Suites south of San Pedro Town on Friday, October 5th and Saturday, October 6th, with a good turnout of participants from as far as the Stann Creek District. The event was organized by San Pedro's Dr. Daniel Gonzalez in collaboration with the Belize Chamber Project and Divers Alert Network (DAN). Gonzalez shared with The San Pedro Sun that given the fact that the area around Ambergris Caye is a premier diving destination, it is very important that persons working in the tourism industry be trained and ready to efficiently address any giving situation with diving incidents.

2018 Copa San Pedro playoffs draw near
As the regular season of Copa San Pedro 2018 draws to an end, teams brought even more intensity this weekend at the Ambergris Stadium in San Pedro Town. The first set of matches were played on Thursday, October 4th, starting at 7PM, with San Mateo F.C winning 3-0 over U17 San Pedro Pirates. The next match saw Genesis F.C taking a 2-1 victory against Talal F.C at 9PM. The following day, Boca Bombers won 5-2 Warriors F.C, while the match between G-Strikers and Vince Assassins ended in a 0-0 draw. The regular season of Copa San Pedro 2018 will culminate this weekend, with eight matches starting on Wednesday, October 10th at 7PM. The first match will see San Mateo FC vs. U17 San Pedro Pirates, followed by Los Catrachos F.C going against Peacemakers. On Thursday, Vince Assassins play versus Young Strikers at 7PM and G-Strikers face Peacemakers at 9PM. The football weekend continues on Friday, October 11th...

Mayors from across Belize sign agreement to Promote Wellness Spaces and Healthy Lifestyles
Mayors from all municipalities across the country signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Ministry of Health (MOH) for the promotion of Wellness Spaces and Healthy Lifestyles on Wednesday, October 3rd at the steps of the Independence Plaza in Belmopan City. Present at the signing ceremony was the Health Minister Honorable Pablo Marin, along with the Mayors of Belmopan, Belize City, Benque Viejo, Corozal, Orange Walk, Dangriga, Punta Gorda, San Ignacio, and Santa Elena Towns and the Deputy Mayor of San Pedro Town.

Ambergris Today

Mirab's Grand Opening Of Super Department Store In Belize City
It took us most of the morning to 'kinda' get a grasp of all the merchandise carried by the new Mirab Department Store that held its grand opening today, October 10, 2018, in Belize City. We still have to go back to spend more time browsing and shopping. It's a first of its kind for Belize with a great 'shopping mall' feel to the store. It's HUGE! It's ELEGANT! It's 'Three stories of retail therapy', says Mirab. The Bou-Nahra family made a bold move in launching Belize's first high end shopping experience, a state of the art department store located 1.5 Miles on the Philip Goldson Highway. Ambergris Today and other invited media reps of Belize City were treated to a first look of the store half an hour before the doors opened to the public.

Jose "Milo" Paz Dies In Plane Accident In Panama
It is with profound sadness that we report that San Pedro has lost a son of the soil. San Pedrano and senior pilot of Tropic Air, Jose 'Milo' Paz was found dead in Panama in a plane accident. According to sources, Paz had taken a week off work to pilot a private charter out of Panama on Tuesday, October 8, 2018, when the plane went down sometime after takeoff. It is said that the charred remains of two pilots were found on the scene and one was identified to be that of Jose 'Milo' Paz. Members of the Paz family will be travelling to Panama to retrieve the body, more on this news as it becomes available. On behalf of the community of San Pedro, Ambergris Today, wishes to express its most sincere condolences to the family of Jose Paz.

Misc Belizean Sources

mzz

Paint N Splash
See you this week at from 2-4pm Thursday to paint this beautiful picture by Sandra van Noord.

LICA's annual Halloween Bazaar on Caye Caulker
LICA's annual Halloween Bazaar coming up soon. It is an event fill with fun games and delicious treats for the entire family. We are hereby asking our community members for your kind sponsorship of any prize towards our games (tombola, ring toss, spin the wheel, balloon darts, peg board, gate prize, King and Queen prize ect). Prizes may be a bottle item, fan, iron, toys, home gadgets ect. Proceeds of this Halloween Bazaar will be used to construct bicycle racks for our students and a portion towards teachers' summer salaries. We can do this with your help. Thank you for your continuous support. LICA-BUILDING POSITIVE INTELLIGENT CHARACTER.

Rapidito Construction Depot
Looking for a data entry clerk / office assistant! Monday - Saturday from 8am to 5pm Female is preferred*** Must live in Caye Caulker*** If interested, kindly fill out an application at the RCD office! We look forward to having YOU join our team!

World Mental Health Day 2018
Today, October 10th, the Ministry of Health joins the international community to observe World Mental Health Day under the theme Young People and Mental Health in a Changing World. An official ceremony to commemorate the day will be held at the Bliss Center for the Performing Arts in Belize City, starting at 1:00 p.m. Following the ceremony there will be a speech competition in which seven youths from high schools across the country will present prepared speeches on the theme to a panel of judges. Other activities will also be held in all districts today in an effort to raise awareness about mental health issues.

TRADE LICENSE HOLDERS and LIQUOR LICENSE HOLDERS please take note!

SAGA Halloween Spooktacular
SUNDAY NOVEMBER 4 11AM-5PM FIDO'S COURTYARD. Don't miss out on the fun and your chance to take home prizes and gift certificates from our many generous donors. Silent Auction, Pet Costume Contest, Raffles for groat prizes overy 20 minutes, Face painting, SAGA Store, Delicious eats and treats!

SFXCU Quiz Contest
Everyone are invited to attend SFXCU Quiz Contest being held at the Civic Center from 8am until. Come out next Wedensday Oct 17 at the Corozal Civic Center.

PACT in Punta Gorda Town
PACT recently traveled to Punta Gorda Town to close a Multiple Investment Project awarded last year to three partnering organizations, Ya'axch� Conservation Trust (Ya'axche'), the Belize Audubon Society (BAS) and the Toledo Institute for Development and Environment (TIDE), for a total of BZ$399,992.00. The project was entitled "A holistic approach to effective management of the protected areas system in Southern Belize". This Multiple Investment aimed at improving management effectiveness across three protected areas in southern Belize through capacity building, institutional strengthening, improved enforcement and fire management. These protected areas included the Paynes Creek National Park, Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and the Golden Stream Corridor Preserve.

Corozal World Diabetes Day Walkathon
Belize Diabetes Association, Corozal Branch is located at the corner of College Road and 7th Avenue. Help us make a difference, Join our World Diabetes Day Walkathon on Wednesday, November 14th starting at 1:00 p.m. from the Civic Center for 2 miles throughout the streets of Corozal Town and back.

New River Challenge Finale
Corozal - Everyone is cordially invited this Monday, October 15th to witness the grand finale of the first ever New River Challenge at Rainbow Beach, Corozal Town. Come out and enjoy a full day of Fun in the Sun.

Channel 7

Teenaged Killers Charged, Confessor Claims It Was "Emo" Ritual
Last night, we told you how police had made major headway in their investigation of the murder of 19 year-old Bobby Garcia. He was the high school student from San Ignacio who was found dead on Sunday morning atop a temple in the Cahal Pech Mayan site, which is located in his home town. He died from a stab wound to chest, and his throat was slashed. Today, the police got the directive from the DPP's office to charge their two teenaged suspects, aged 14 and 15 with Garcia's murder. They have since been arraigned on the offenses of murder and conspiracy to commit murder, and they have been remanded to prison until December 10th.

Veteran Pilot Dies In Mysterious Crash
Veteran pilot, former PUP politician and well known San Pedrano Milo Paz has died. It is reported to have happened in Panama on a private flight. Reports say Paz and another pilot both died, and that their charred remains were found yesterday evening - and taken to Panama City. His boss and long-time friend John Greif spoke about Paz as a friend and a senior pIlot:...

Port and Workers Union Meet
Time is ticking on a 21-day strike action notice for the Port of Belize. The Christian Workers Union - acting on behalf of the stevedores - sent the notice letter to the Government 12 days ago. The central dispute in this impasse is that the two sides cannot agree on the hours of work for the stevedores. The Port says that the law is clear that employees of this country should only be working 15-hour shifts with 9 hours of rest. That's in complete contradiction of the current practice of the stevedores, where they go on work-shifts that far exceed that 15-hour limit. The stevedores don't want to cut their hours of work because, less hours mean less pay, and if their salaries are cut, they won't be able to feed their families.

Utility Workers Support Stevedores
So, while there are positive steps that have been taken to end this dispute between the Port of Belize and the Christian Workers Union, the utility workers have thrown their support behind the CWU. A joint press release from the Belize Water Services Workers Union, the Belize Communications Workers Union, and the Belize Energy Workers Union says quote, "The Utility workers Unions... hereby express solidarity with the… (CWU), as they address the current impasse in negotiation with their Employer, Port Of Belize Limited. We hold firm to the belief that safety adherence, or the compliance with current labour legislation, are not to be used as an excuse to reduce the take home income for the workers.

OW Police Department Being Purged After Narco-Cops Charged
7News has confirmed that there is a mini purge happening at the Orange Walk police formation. This is after two officers in that district - including Orange Walk Town Commander, David Chi - were charged for landing a drug plane one month ago. Reports tell us that It's apparent to the new Commander, ASP Juanito Cocom that the narco's, or their agents have infiltrated the formation and compromised other officers. He reportedly requested the transfer of 20 officers. Reports confirm however that only 5 transfers were approved.

Matura Man Charged For City Shooting
On Monday we told you about the attack on Thomas Ferguson Jr. On Friday night, the 19 year old was shot in the lower back and lower abdomen but survived. It happened not far from his home on Arlington Drive. Yesterday Jermaine Matura, accompanied by his attorney, Leeroy Banner, went to the police station and handed himself in. Today, the police arraigned the 26 year old.

City Mayor Returns Fat Envelope to Businesswoman
Most of us don't like to admit it, but we know that - for many - bribes are a part of doing business - especially with local and central government. But, not for Mayor Bernard Wagner. 7News has seen a copy of a letter where Wagner is returning a "gift" to a Chinese businesswoman who had left a fat envelope behind after a visit with the city administrator Stephanie Garbutt. Garbutt reported it to the mayor and handed over the envelope which had $2,500 dollars in fifty dollar bills.

Mother of Missing Teen Desperately Wants Her Home
The mother of a Missing 13 yr old Nazarene 2nd form student stopped by our studios today. She says that her daughter Astaejah Dymond has been missing from the family home since Monday. The last time she saw her daughter was at school Monday evening. Since then she and other friends and family have been searching for the wayward teen. Her mother made a plea for her safe return today.

PUC Meets with Regional Regulators
By now, you probably know what the PUC does: the Commission regulates the utility companies, namely BTL, BEL, and BWSL to make sure they get a fiar return on their investment, without gouging consumers. The PUC is also a part of an organization of utility regulators from other Caribbean countries. It is called the Organization of Caribbean Utility Regulators (OOCUR), and today, they held their 16th conference here in Belize, with the PUC as their hosts. We stopped by for day 1 of the conference, and spoke with the chairman about the shared issues and challenges that regulators around the Caribbean face. Here's what he told us:

Three Brothers Wait For Judge's Decision in Killing of BDF Reservist
3 brothers, 46 year old Phil Staine, 37 year old Kareem Staine and 41 year old Orlando Staine, are back at the Belize Central Prison tonight. They are waiting on a decision from Justice Adolph Lucas who has presided over their trial for the murder of 23 year-old Denver Villafranco. Villafranco, a BDF volunteer, was fatally stabbed in January of 2015. The trial without jury of the 3 Staine brothers began early last month. The Crown relied mainly on the evidence of three witnesses one of whom testified that the deceased and the brothers were fighting in a drain and he saw when Phil Stain stabbed Villafranco.

Mirab, the Multi-Million dollar Shopping Experience Worth Every Dollar Invested
We don't usually put store openings on the news - unless that opening is a societal event. And so it was today for the new Mirab Store, which represents the most money ever invested on building a commercial space in Belize. Doe it meet expectations? Jules Vasquez was among the first to visit:.. Jules Vasquez reporting: This is the moment shoppers have been waiting months for. The opening of the doors for the biggest, most decked out Department store in Belize's history.

Mental Health And Teens
Today was observed as World Mental Health Day under the theme Young People and Mental Health in a Changing World. Now, you may be mistaken to believe that mental illness affects mostly the elderly, but the Ministry of Health is reporting that in Belize youths accounted for 15% of the total consultations for mental health services over the last 10 years. And, of the mental health issues, anxiety accounted for 55% of those consultations. The rates of suicide attempt per 100,000 people for age groups 10-14 and 15-19 were 17.6% and 74.3% respectively. So, for World Mental Health Day, the Ministry hosted an event at the Bliss Center for several high schools all across the country.

Post Office Hopes To Be More Efficient With New Vehicles
The Post Office is hoping it can increase its efficiency with the donation of two vans from the International Postal Union. We were at the handing over at the post office today - where we found out how this will increase efficiency in the delivery of mails: Hon. Edmond Castro- Minister of Transport: "Today we are happy to see that we have in house, in hand, key in hand of two key vans that was very much needed. One of the vans will be traversing Belize/Corozal, the northern zone. The other van will be going on the West, on the George Price and Phillip Goldson, politically correct. All we ask is for the caretakers of these vans to take it easy."

Cayo Fire Station Is In The Dumps
And while there is a plan to stretch those dollars mighty thin for some new fire trucks - the fact is that the crises in the fire department is more than just fire trucks. The Department's physical infrastructure is in terrible shape in some areas - like Cayo. We saw the PUP area rep make a Facebook post about it, and we asked the Minister when it will be fixed:...

Bliss Gets Repairs
Another place that needs urgent repairs is the Bliss Center. And today NICH announced that it will get primary renovations to the roof and upgrades to the Air Conditioning system. The new Bliss was opened in March of 2003 but only days after the re-opening, the roof started to leak.

Channel 5

Popular Pilot Missing; Feared Dead After Plane Crash in Panama
Believed to be missing and feared dead, well-known pilot forty-nine-year-old Jose Milo Paz has not been seen or heard from since Sunday. His family in San Pedro Town has been [...]

Belizean Nurse Killed in Car Wreck in North Carolina
While the death of Paz has not been officially confirmed, tonight we can report that another Belizean has been killed in the U.S. �She is thirty-five-year-old Jacqueline Dawson. She too [...]

2 Minors are Arraigned for the Murder of Bobby Garcia
Two minors were arraigned today for the murder of Bobby Garcia, a nineteen- year-old San Ignacio resident.� Garcia's body was found inside a temple at the Cahal Pech Archaeological site [...]

P.U.P. Reps Say There's No Division in the Party
There was some straight talk on Tuesday by the P.U.P. southern caucus chair, Mike Espat, as well as from Cayo South Area Rep Julius Espat and Cayo Northeast Orlando Habet.� [...]

CWU, Port of Belize Meet on a New C.B.A., but Impasse Continues
A meeting was convened earlier today between the executive of the Christian Workers Union, the Labour Department and the Port of Belize Limited. But soon after it started, it was [...]

Ministry of Health's Epidemiologist Resigns
Epidemiologist, Doctor Ethan Gough has resigned from the Ministry of Health. His resignation, we understand, took the ministry by surprise because it has only been about a year since he [...]

Taiwan Appoints New Ambassador to Belize
The Republic of China (Taiwan) has appointed a new ambassador to Belize. He is Remus Chen and his new post was announced early this week by Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign [...]

Welcome to the Dilapidated Fire Station in San Ignacio
The fire station in San Ignacio, which services both of the twin towns, is in a most deplorable form and firemen assigned to that location are required to work daily [...]

Additional Fire Trucks, a Promise or a Reality?
The shortage of equipment across the fire department has been a contributing factor in the loss of lives, as well as property, in at least two tragedies that have occurred [...]

What About Fire Hydrants and Water Pressure?
According to Castro, they have been able to locate used fire trucks for a fraction of the cost elsewhere in the United States.� They are now looking into the possibility [...]

Mirab Opens Its New Mega Department Store
Mirab has a new department store and today it opened for business, offering a high-end shopping experience. The Mirab store relocated from the Fort Street area to the Philip Goldson [...]

Tropic Air President Says Investors Need Better Support
Today's opening of Mirab's new department store drew hundreds of Belizeans and several high profile personalities. �Businessman John Greif the Third is one of those persons in attendance. The President [...]

New Vehicles for the Post Office
While the internet provides an instant way to communicate, post offices continue to provide essential services. In rural communities across the country, the delivery of mail and packages remains a [...]

A Mother's Plea for the Safe Return of Her Teen Daughter
A thirteen-year-old Nazarene High School student has been missing since Monday evening. Today, her mother Shemadine Panting came to News Five studios to report that Asha went to school and [...]

World Mental Health Observed in Belize
Today, October tenth, Belize joined the globe to observe World Mental Health Day under the theme, "Young People and Mental Health in a Changing World." According to the World Health [...]

"Stop Abuse and Violence Against Seniors"
HelpAge Belize is sending out a call to action for everyone to stop the abuse, crimes, and violence against older persons. Global statistics indicate that one in every six seniors [...]

HelpAge Says Elder Abuse Must Be Addressed
According to Bulwer, the time has come to bring this issue to the attention of the public, as it is also a public health problem, and a legal violation. She [...]

LOVE FM

Do we need CICIG? Some Belizeans don't care if we become part of Guatemala
Guatemala's unfounded claim on a significant portion of Belize continues to be in the forefront of public discourse as the education campaign about the International Court of Justice (ICJ) continues across the country. Emotions have run very high today as a video was posted on social media went viral when a Belizean woman made it �

MISS SCUBA BELIZE TO REPRESENT BELIZE IN MALAYSIA
Belize is looking to take part in the Miss Scuba International pageant. It is new to Belize and is being led by former Mayor, Zenaida Moya. Sitnah Blease: "Several young Belizean women are currently preparing to represent Belize on the national level of pageantry in countries such as the Philippines, Bolivia or Thailand. The recent �

BELIZE CELEBRATES MENTAL HEALTH DAY
Today, October 10th, the Ministry of Health joins the international community to observe World Mental Health Day under the theme Young People and Mental Health in a Changing World. In Belize, youths accounted for 15% of the total consultations for mental health services over the last 10 years and anxiety accounted for 55% of those �

SAN PEDRO PILOT DIES IN PANAMA
Milo Paz junior had worn many hats on Ambergris Caye. Born into a political family, Paz junior once served of the P.U.P. Belize Rural South Constituency. Paz was well known and well-loved throughout the community in San Pedro Town. Paz also took wings and was a veteran pilot who flew over the years for Tropic �

Belize hosts OCCUR's conference
Belize is hosting the sixteenth annual OOCUR conference, which is being attended by regulators from across the Caribbean. The event is being held at the Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza. Reporter Johnelle McKenzie filed this report. Johnelle Mckenzie: "The Organization of the Caribbean Youth Health Regulators is holding its 16th Annual Conference in Belize �

New trucks and Bowsers coming to the Fire Dept.
The Fire Department has faced criticisms as they have worked with old trucks throughout the country. Recent fires in San Pedro and Orange Walk have put the department under extra scrutiny but the Minister of Transport Edmond Castro says that new trucks and water bowsers will be purchased for the Fire Department. Edmond Castro, Minister �

Mail Service gets a boost
Though the world is more connected through social media and instant messaging services, the Belize Post Office is still mandated to keep the old way of doing things moving and that includes the movement of packages. Earlier today, the Postmaster General, James Gabourel said the post office received two new mail vans to aid in �

No Plastics, No Styrofoam Kids Summer Camp becomes an Art Exhibit
The "No Plastics, No Styrofoam Kids Summer Camp" was a unique summer activity in the Cayo district that had the patronage of Minister Omar Figueroa. In July, over 50 kids learned about conservation and participated in clean-up activities. Though school is now open for the kids, they got together to put their art works on �

Labour Minister brings CWU and Port back to the bargaining table
The Utility workers Unions (BWSWU/BCWU/BEWU) are in solidarity with the Christian Workers Union (CWU) as they address the current impasse in negotiation with their employer, Port Of Belize Limited. The joint press release says that they believe that compliance with current labour legislation is not to be used as an excuse to reduce the take-home �

Two Minors arrested in connection with the murder of Bobby Garcia
Police have arrested two minors, a 14-year-old and a 15-year-old in connection with the murder of (BOBBY GARCIA VO) Bobby Garcia that occurred at the Cahal Pech Maya site on October seventh. Police have charged the two minors for the crime of murder and conspiracy to commit murder. Garcia, a resident of Kevin Drive Street, �

Several persons charged for kept unlicensed firearm and ammunition
49-year-old Hubert Young, 50-year-old Denise Young Slusher, 19-year-old Kristy Kiana Young, 24-year-old Kaim Akeem Mitchell, 27-year-old Ericson Young, 24-year-old Mario Fernandez and 23-year-old Kevaun Khalie Slusher were arrested for "kept unlicensed firearm and Ammunition".

GSU recovers firearm and ammunition
49-year-old Hubert Young, 50-year-old Denise Young Slusher, 19-year-old Kristy Kiana Young, 24-year-old Kaim Akeem Mitchell, 27-year-old Ericson Young, 24-year-old Mario Fernandez and 23-year-old Kevaun Khalie Slusher were arrested for "kept unlicensed firearm and Ammunition".

Judge Lucas to decide the fate of three brothers
The fate of three brothers, (VO MURDER) 46 year old Phil Staine, 37 year old Kareem Staine and 41 year old Orlando Staine will be decided by Justice Adolph Lucas on November 5. The trio were on trial for the murder of 23 year old Denver Villafranco, a BDF volunteer who was fatally stabbed around 7 p.m. on January 17, 2015.

Minors charged for Cahal Pech Murder
Police have arrested two minors, a 14-year-old and a 15-year-old in connection with the murder of Bobby Garcia that occurred at the Cahal Pech Maya site on October seventh. Police have charged the two minors for the crime of murder and conspiracy to commit murder.

Jermaine Matura on trial for attempted Murder
Twenty-six year old Jermaine Matura, accompanied by his attorney, Leeroy Banner appeared before Magistrate Aretha Ford, where he was charged with attempted murder. Matura was also charged with dangerous harm and use of deadly means of harm. Senior Magistrate Ford explained to Matura that she will not take a plea since the offences are indictable.

The Reporter

30 DAYS ON LOCK-DOWN - THERE WERE NO REGIMENTED PROGRAM
There were no regimented programs tailored specifically for the 51 detainees who were housed for the past 30 days at the Hattieville Prison, but CEO of the facility, Virgilio Murillo, told the Reporter this evening that there certainly were motivational programs that they took part in that seemed to give some of them a new perspective on life.

LEADERSHIP IN TURMOIL
There is a clear distinction between politicians and leaders. Belize has sadly only had politicians in elected office. It is sad because in times of turmoil, people look to leaders to lead. All too often in Belize, these times are when politicians run and hide; either they hide important truths from the people, or they hide themselves behind their arrogance, ignorance and greed.

COAST GUARD/MINISTRY MUM ON BUSANO'S CRIMINAL HISTORY
The Belize Coast Guard and officials in the Ministry of National Security are yet to publicly address reports that an active Coast Guard officer was convicted of assaulting a woman during his time of service with the British military and was accused of raping two other women and sexually assaulting another, though those charges against him were later dismissed.

LOCAL PILOT DIES - DOING PRIVATE CHARTER IN PANAMA
There is confirmation at this time that the body of senior Tropic Air pilot and San Pedro resident Milo Paz has been found. Paz had taken a week off work to pilot a private charter out of Panama yesterday, when the plane went down sometime after takeoff. Friends of the family say the plane and charred remains of two pilots, one of them identified as Paz, were found sometime yesterday evening.

Breaking Belize NewsPJ

Minister of Tourism expresses condolences in passing of Milo Paz
The entire country and especially San Pedro residents have been rocked by the passing of career [�]

Owner of Tropic Air reflects on the life of Milo Paz
John Greif, the owner of Tropic Air, today commented on the tragic passing of his employee, [�]

Utility Workers Union expresses support for CWU!
The Utility Workers Union (UWU) has issued a press release expressing its support for the Christian [�]

Police charge two teens for murder of Bobby Garcia
Cayo police have charged two teens, ages 14, and 15, in connection with the murder of [�]

Zenaida Moya crowns 'Ms. Scuba Belize'
Former Mayor of Belize City, Zenaida Moya, continues to engage in pageantry. Yesterday in her capacity [�]

Belize postal service acquires 2 new vans
The Belize Postal service today announced the acquisitions of two (2) new mail vans. The vans [�]

World Mental Health Day 2018 commemorated
Today, the Ministry of Health joins the international community to observe World Mental Health Day. The [�]

Three men busted with illegal forestry
Three Belizean men were arraigned yesterday on charges of 'unlawful possession of forest produce'. They were [�]

Michelle Brown to stand trial for murder of Fareed Ahmad
Constable Michelle Brown will stand trial for the December 2017 murder of businessman, Fareed Ahmad. Police [�]

Convicted rapist loses appeal
Convicted rapist, Harrim Perez, lost his appeal against conviction in the Court of Appeal. Yesterday, the court [�]

Belizean pilot killed in Panama plane crash
Yesterday, Belizean pilot, Jose Milo Paz, a member of the Tropic Air flight crew died [�]

Blogs

Repeat Visitors First Meal Choice
There are certain restaurants on Ambergris Caye that many repeat visitors put at the top of their to-do list. It was a given that my Canadian company Heather suggested Estel's Dine by the Sea for her first breakfast on the island. I could not even begin to count the number of friends who have made that same choice over my 12 years living in Belize. As soon as we got close, my craving switched instantly. Seeing the big weekend smoker action made me want Charles's Worthington's world-famous Belizean barbecue and more specifically his brontosaurus pork chops. My pic does not do justice to the size of the chop, in reality, I had a whole other plate full of fries as there was no room for them with my main meal. Charles even stopped by our table after to see if I was able to finish it my pork chop. My plate was already gone but the answer was of course and just barely. I had to leave some fries behind so I could fit it all in:D Heather opted for my usual favorite breakfast since she got my standard, I pulled a pic of that option from my tacogirl Belize Blog Instagram.

International Sourcesizz

A Homage To The Belizean Barbecue
The best tip I read as we researched Belize was "Don't be afraid of the street venders." Placencia, Belize resident Gary Peterson extols the virtues of the Belizean barbecue. If you're a meat lover, Belize really could be a place to get comfy in. One of the first pleasures I encountered on my first adventure in Belize, was that barbecues seemed to be everywhere! They're in every village large and small, on the side of the road or in front of homes. The smells permeating from these black charcoal or propane tanks make you delirious. Ask any Belizean where he eats most often, and the answer is the local barbeque favorite, or in his front yard. In Belize, the drum barbeque grill is king, made from old propane or butane tanks. The local welder cuts them in half, welds on hinges and a handle, adds four legs and paints them black. Job done.

Ka'ana Wins World Travel Award for 4th Consecutive Year
Mexico & Central America's Leading Boutique Resort 2018

Water outage Thursday in Corozal
Belize Water Services informs its customers in parts of Corozal that there will be low water pressure in the water supply today, Thursday, October 11, 2018, starting at 1:00pm. The entire Corozal Water Distribution System will be affected. This low water pressure is necessary for electrical maintenance at the Calcutta Pump Station. Due to the upgrade, customers may experience discoloration when water is restored. Residents of these or nearby areas are advised that water supply should return to normal by 5:30pm.

New clinic for Caye Caulker Humane Society
Please meet our beautiful new clinic! This building truly was a labour of love on the part of many people! Thanks are in order for Susan Pelt for her excellent work at being our building goddess and forewoman and overseeing the construction of the building while most of our volunteers were out of town; Carol Koris for being painter and general helper extraordinaire; Cher Mungovan for supply transport and needle sorting, Tom Sullivan for generously allowing us to build on and use his land; Roberto Cruz, Manager at Weezie's and huge help throughout the process; David Gray doing the electrical wiring for the building, David Waugh for doing the wiring, plumbing and being our Door Wizard); Matt Bamford for making our cupboards and Matt and Keith Tzac for putting in window inserts allowing us to attach screens or plastic covering as needed; Allie Johnstone for painting us great signs; and finally, Frontier Belize volunteers for helping move all our crap and sorting through leashes and collars.

5 Things To Understand Before Moving Money Across International Borders
We Americans have it relatively easy when it comes to moving money in and out of our accounts. You can wire $150,000 to Belize for the purchase of a beach house or receive $200,000 from the sale of a home in Mexico without anyone asking you to explain where the money came from. That's not the case in the rest of the world, and restrictions on currency movements are becoming more common. Virtually all banks everywhere now ask for proof of the source of funds for large transfers and increasingly even for small ones. If you're buying or selling real estate, a copy of the sales contract generally satisfies the inquiry. Additional hoops must be jumped through in countries that impose capital and/or exchange restrictions to control the flow of money coming and going.

UAE to fund US$34.5 million renewable energy projects in Caribbean
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is proceeding with US$34.5 million in grants to fund renewable energy projects in the Caribbean that are built to withstand Category 5 hurricanes and located for enhanced resilience. The UAE's minister of climate change and environment, Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, made the announcement at the second annual Bloomberg Global Business Forum, held on the sidelines of the recent 73rd Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The US$34.5 million comes on the heel of US$15 million of projects announced last year.

Videos

  • Meet the First Ever Miss Scuba Belize, 3.5min.

  • Belize Audubon Society Goes Boat-to-Boat, 6min. On Monday night we reported on the Belize Audubon Society's work with the Managed Access Programme. That programme was first piloted in one site and after seeing some positive results, there was a national roll out. It is considered a model to be followed in the region, but there are still some areas that need to be adjusted since in some quarters the benefits are not felt. The Belize Audubon Society is one of the N.G.O.s that manages the Lighthouse Reef Atoll, a popular fishing zone. In recent years, it has implemented a grassroots approach to meet the fisherfolks boat-to-boat. The initiative also strengthens relationships, encourage fisheries regulations compliance and promote sustainable fishing. News Five's Andrea Polanco tagged along on a recent boat-to-boat meet up and shares more in the following story.

  • Belize- Jaguar Paw Tubing Excursion, 10min.

  • Belize September 2018, 15min.

  • Whale shark spotted at the silk cayes, 3min.

  • Love Entertainment Show 10th October 2018, 2hr.

  • Richard Branson to explore the Belize Blue Hole, 1min. Virgin Group Founder Richard Branson is set to explore the depths of the "Great Blue Hole" in December.

  • The new Mirab Department Store opened today in Belize City, 1min. We Walked the Red Carpet and got a first look before the doors opened to the public. The new Mirab Department Store opened today in Belize City. Now located at 1.5Mls, Phillip Goldson Highway, the three-storey luxury MEGA STORE has over 100,000 square feet of display area and houses a Ashley Furniture Home Store (opening in November). The Mirab Department Store provides a variety of brand selections Belizeans have come to know and love. The only one of its kind in Belize! Get Ready to SHOP!

  • Creative Tours & Adventures Promo, 1min.

  • 'TAXI' Around The World 2018, Part 3: Belize, 7min. After some wonderful days in Mexico, I'm now heading south to Belize. Here in Belize, the main attraction are the laid back beaches on Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye. The water around the islands are turquoise coloured and abundant with marine life. Belize is unbelievably beautiful! 00:06 - Day 9: Caye Caulker, the beach holiday paradise. 03:01 - Day 10: Lobster, lobster & lobster! That's what on the menu in San Pedro. 06:48 - Extra clip: Go slow!

  • Gringo in Belize by Dennis Wolfe, 3min. The definitive song about Belize. I wrote this about a lot of different people--not just about myself.

  • Elvis Is Alive Down In Belize by Dennis Wolfe, 3.5min. Those who want to disappear and re-invent themselves can always come to Belize. Is Elvis one of them?

  • Open Your Eyes with Dr. Angel Cal, 31min. This is something every Belizean should watch. For years Belize have ignore the history of the Maya people of Belize (Yucatec Maya,Mopan Maya & Kekchi maya ).
  • © Ambergris Caye Belize Message Board