October 9, 2016

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

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, Rise and Shine Morning Show, and the Dickie Bradley Specials

The San Pedro Sun

BelizeKids.org planning to open eye clinic
On Thursday, October 6th, BelizeKids.org hosted a meeting at the Lions Den with members from the Belize Council for the Visually Impaired (BCVI) and members from the San Pedro Lions Club. The meeting served to discuss their objectives and upcoming plans to open a vision clinic in San Pedro Town. BelizeKids.org is a non-profit organization that focuses on helping children in Belize, and establishing this free clinic will allow children, along with members of the community, to receive an array of eye services. In attendance was founder of BelizeKids.org, Don Listwin, Dr. Caroline Fisher, Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at Stanford University in California, USA, Executive President of BCVI, Joan Musa, Executive Director of BCVI, Carla Musa, Gil Nuñez of Canary Coves, Lion President Nigel Belisle, Lion Jan Brown, and BelizeKids.org facilitators Jeff Spiegel and Rebecca Coutant.

BNTU’s nationwide strike continues
Since Monday, October 3rd most of the educational institutions around the country have been closed due to the industrial action strike led by the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU). In San Pedro Town, the Roman Catholic Primary School and the San Pedro High School called off classes for the entire week, and on Thursday, October 6th teachers from the island travelled to Belize City to join BNTU’s nationwide demonstration which took place simultaneously in different parts of the country. Their demands for better governance and the implementation of the long awaited salary adjustment were on top of their agenda during the massive protest. The BNTU declared the strike as successful, after receiving support from many social partners and concerned Belizeans countrywide. At the same time, the ‘Stand up for Belize’ campaign was strongly pushed to increase awareness and garner more support from the citizenry. At a meeting on Tuesday, October 4th at the BNTU headquarters in Belize City, the Union stated that they are in for the long haul, but they continue asking more organizations to join them in the fight against the Government of Belize (GOB) for good governance practices and transparency.

San Pedro Police Department steps up operations during slow season
In an effort to deter crime on the island, the San Pedro Police Department (SPPD) embarked on an aggressive security campaign to guarantee a safer town during the slower months of the year. Traditionally the months of July through October often see an increase in criminal activity, accredited to the unavailability of employment in the Tourism Industry. By increasing police presence, SPPD hoped to ensure safety to all visitors and residents. As part of the campaign, the island saw an increase of police presence in areas considered ‘hot spots.’ Deputy Executive Office for the Coastal Zone Henry Jemmott stated that up to date, the initiative has yielded good results in cracking down on crime, particularly when dealing with drug trafficking and peddling. “We have seen the need to implement this system in order to detain and apprehend persons who are committing offences,” said Jemmott. In the past weeks, they have teamed up with other security agencies of the department and made several seizures and arrests.

Misc Belizean Sources

Belize vs. Honduras
The match ended in at 2-1 point win for Honduras. Belize goal by Elroy Kuylen. Nevertheless, we congratulate of Belize Jaguars in a great game!

The Farm House Deli to open at Mahogany Bay Village
Ian Anderson of The Farm House Deli today toasted with champagne as he announced the branch opening of his Belmopan Deli in San Pedro at the Mahogany Bay Village, Curio Collection by Hilton. After experiencing much success at various farmer's markets held on the island, Anderson has teamed up with Mahogany Bay Village with a grand opening of the San Pedro Farm House Deli expected around mid December. Congratulations.

Channel 7

Teachers Shall Not Be Moved! Strike Continues Into Second week
Teachers have now concluded 5 days of strike, and the news tonight is that on next Tuesday, it will continue. That's the decision coming out of a 6 hour-long meeting by the BNTU's Council of Management in Belize City today. We were there when they called a press briefing to share the news. Here's why the leaders say that the teacher want to continue staying out of classes next week: Luke Palacio - National President - BNTU: "Our council of management wants to make it known to the media and to the public in general that despite the propaganda being spread that the prime minister has invited us to a meeting, to the negotiations table; there has been no such formal request, not in writing, not via telephone call. We heard that like all other Belizeans when he had his video launch two Sundays ago. We take this opportunity this evening to call on the prime minister to set a date, a time and a venue for a meeting so that meeting can be held because like we've said before and we continuously say the doors remain open. However until that meeting is convened and the BNTU obtains a level of satisfaction from the responses or outcomes of such a meeting our members will remain on strike."

PM Writes To BNTU, As Requested
And the prime minister has written. Just about 30 minutes ago, the Government sent a copy of the letter that the Prime Minister wrote to the President of the BNTU. In it, it is clear that the Prime Minister is trying to keep his comments measured when he says, quote,"You have today told the media and the public that I have not formally invited the BNTU back to the negotiating table to discuss the eight demands contained in your September 12, 2016 letter to me... To say the least, I find this to be a fig leaf. I have publicly issued several calls for BNTU to return to negotiations with Government, the latest such call being just two days ago. I also note that after our meeting of September 22, 2016, you immediately wrote to reject the majority of the positions Government had put to you and made your decision to strike. You did not say to me then, or at any time thereafter, that you were willing to further engage. Indeed, it was quite clear that the opposite was true. As a matter of fact, my conviction is that you had decided to strike even before hearing Government's position. You came to that meeting with your minds already made up."

Catholic Diocese Tells schools To Open; Schools Stay Shut
And so, as the strike continues into next week, what will happen to Catholic Schools? Last night as we told you the Bishops sent out a statement saying, quote, "we support the appeal for students and teachers to get back to the classroom. The education of our young people is our primary concern. Other means besides strikes can be used to pressure the government for reforms to insure good governance." So then, did Catholic Schools open today? They didn't. We did a tour through the city of the largest Catholic Schools going from St. John Vianney, to St. Martin's De Porres to St. Ignatius, to Palotti, to SJC, to St. Joseph, to Holy Redeemer, to St. Catherine's and none of them were open. This is after the Apostolic Nuncio to Belize, basically Rome's representative in Central America, said on Wednesday, quote, "I want to see all the Catholic children at school, then we will speak…I prefer children to be at school…If we are playing around with our children, we are killing them."

Members Named To Senate Select Committee
And one of the issues the teachers have been agitating for is a Senate Probe into immigration irregularities. But they can't find common ground with the government on the composition of that body. Still, the motion for a 3-2-1 composition on the Senate Select Committee has been passed and now it's only left to name the members. Most of those names were released today, and they are as follows: Senator Dr. Carla Barnett, Senator Aldo Salazar – who are both UDP Senators, Senator Ashley Rocke from the churches, Senator Mark Lizarraga from the Business Community, and Senator Elena Smith from Labour and Civil Society. Those were the names sent on an official communiqué from the National Assembly today, which adds, quote, "The office of the Senate has not yet been informed of the name of the Opposition Senator." End quote.

Briceno Says Nothing Will Come Of Senate Cmte With Current Lineup
We do know that the Chamber is meeting next week Wednesday for a Special General Meeting and Business Mixer at the Radisson. The stated purpose for the meeting is to determine "what if any action" should be taken regarding the Motion and Terms of Reference passed in the Senate for the Special Select Committee, and whether or not the business Senator should participate in the Inquiry. The chamber was not satisfied with the motion's composition or terms of reference. So now they want to send a motion back to the senate, or impose a one-day business shutdown if the motion is unsuccessful. The first resolution states that if their motion with a different composition is not approved by the senate, they will activate a national business shutdown

Hurricane Matthew, Megastorm
Hurricane Matthew, once the strongest storms in the last ten years, is currently moving along the South East Coast of the United States. Before that, Matthew passed through several Caribbean countries, spreading destruction as it went. Major flooding and damage affected some parts of the Dominican Republic, Cuba and the Bahamas, but it was Haiti that was hit the hardest. So far, Hurricane Matthew has claimed 842 lives in Haiti. The UN is calling it the worst disaster in Haiti since an earthquake devastated the country in 2010. US Navy Vessels and other international organisations have already been sent to help with the relief efforts.

Child Burn Victims Flown Out
It's the fire tragedy that caught the nation's attention, the one on Aloe Vera Street on Tuesday night: one child perished, while his cousins were severely burned to 90% of their bodies. While the family gets ready to bury 11 year old Aaron Gabourel next week, 4 year old Ian Sambula-Carr and 8 year old Empress Hamilton were flown out today. 7News was at the hospital to see them off, and Daniel Ortiz has the whole story:… After spending 2 days at the KHMH, 4 year old Ian Sambula-Carr and his sister, 8 year old Empress Hamilton, were removed through the Emergency Section. They were heading to Shriner's Hospital in Galveston via a private jet. The KHMH has done all it can to save their life, and to ensure that they can have a fighting chance, they need more specialized care for those burn injuries which now covers most of their little bodies.

Shriners Doctors Flies In To See Off Empress and Ian
Empress and Ian were especially fortunate because Shriners actually sent a doctor down to Belize to make sure that the kids – who are in critical condition – would be stable to travel by air to Texas. Dr. William Sherman who is a burn surgeon told us what the kids would have to go through on the road to recovery:… Alex Courtenay: "Can you give us some information about the procedures that you came down to do on the two burnt victims?" Dr. William Sherman - Burn Surgeon, Shrines Hospital: "Sure so the two burn victims that I saw in the hospital today were fairly badly injured and they are going by air back to the United States so I assessed them and determine they were stable enough for transport however because of the extensiveness of the burns I wanted to ensure that they weren't going to be any problems in flight. So I performed some minor surgical procedures at bed side today to help prepare them for the flight."

Mother Recounts Saving Children From Fire
And their mother Melissa Hamilton is the one who will have to see them through that lifetime of post-burn care. She has that to deal with going forward but she also has to live with that trauma of Tuesday night when she had to snatch her children from the fire and throw them off the veranda. She also has burn wounds from that night, and tonight she tells us what she had to do to get them out of the house:.. Melissa Hamilton - Mother of Burnt Children: "All I remember when we run inna di house through the front door and start to throw in the gas on all of us and I ask ey whe you di do but he no ansa you know. So all I could ah mi think first di da dash out my lee 2 year old, my son Jeremiah done mi already grab my son Ian but a nail juke him in his toe so he had to let go. So I shove down Ian off the varanda and I grab Empress from the step and I da so I manage but he mussi say no you think you will get way I will make sure that you have scars too. See it ya, he make sure he give me something, all my face he wanted."

Woman Accused Of Stabbing Mom With Pint
On Wednesday morning, Hetta Marin was standing in front of her house when her daughter, Anifa, allegedly entered her yard holding a bottle. Marin called out to her daughter, telling her not to come any closer. Anifa then allegedly broke the bottle, approached her mother and stabbed her several times in the back, nose, chin and chest. Well, Anifa says she didn’t do it. She appeared in the Magistrate’s court today, and pled not guilty to the charge of wounding. She was denied bail and remanded into custody until November 29th.

Making Mental Healthcare Accessible
Mental illness comes in different forms and it's all around us, we confront it on the streets, in homes and in the community. But in most cases, that is where it stays, and those suffering are isolated and shunned. Health professionals are pleading to the public to break this barrier and reach out to those in need. Today a ceremony was held at the Battlefield Park to commemorate World Mental Health Day and psychiatric nurse Ingrid Claire told us how we can help those who are caught in the grips of mental illness. Ingrid Claire - Psychiatric Nurse: "The focus on this theme this year is getting the public and anyone does not have to be a professional to do this, so you do not need a counsellor, you don't need a psychiatric nurse all you need is to have the knowledge to do this and so we are involving the public in getting this information as to how you go about helping."

Briceno Joins Union, Says Sign UNCAC Now
As we've told you the government has committed to signing the UN Convention Against Corruption on December ninth. The Chamber says that timeline is right on time, but the BNTU has said, "we don't trust you, sign it now!" And yesterday, the opposition leader said just the same in Orange Walk when he marched with the teachers: Hon. John Briceno - Leader of the Opposition: "We know that the only reason that they have said they are going to sign it because they were afraid that the private sector, the chamber and the Belize Business Bureau were at the point of saying we are going to shut down businesses until the government does something. So again it's a delayed tactic to say okay we're going to sign it on the 9th of December."

Briceno Accuses PSU Leadership
And while the BTNU has found a willing ally in the PUP – and have gotten verbal support form all corners, the truth is the other major unions didn't join them in masse in their nationwide marches yesterday: not the PSU, not the APSSM not the BCWU, not the BEWU and not the CWU's varied memberships. The BNTU is determined but isolated and effective – and probably the favourite of students all over the country, who've gotten summer in October. But the one that really bugs the PUP is the PSU. Statistically, they have the largest membership – more than twice that of the BNTU, but historically that union has not been very united or effective. Today, their president concluded countrywide consultations on whether to join the BNTU but PUP leader John Briceno is not impressed with Eldred Neal. He called him a sell-out:..

18 Year Old Please To Selling Weed
Today in the Magistrate’s Court, 18-year-old Kristy Elizabeth Dawson was given a second chance instead of being sent to prison. Dawson was hanging out on Kelly Street in Belize City, when police stopped and searched her. The cops found one ounce of marijuana in Dawson’s purse, which she told them she was selling for quote, “a lady.” Despite admitting that she was selling the weed for someone else, Dawson pled not guilty to one charge of drug trafficking, but pled guilty to the lesser charge of possession. Taking her age into account, and the fact that it was her first offence, Magistrate Carlos Mendoza sentenced Dawson to fifty hours of community service starting Monday.

Belizean Pens Manley Biography
Godfrey Smith's first book, the biography, "George Price, A Life Revealed" was a runaway success, emerging as the definitive work on the man known as "the Father of The Nation." And in his new book, Smith tells the story of another great Caribbean leader, Michael Manley. This Biography – the first authorized by the Manley family tackles the life of the charismatic Jamaican Prime Minister, who, in the 70's emerged as one of the true icons of this regions, second only to Field Castro. The book was launched yesterday at the Image Factory in Belize City, and we got to hear about what we can expect to read in the book from Jamaican, Chief Magistrate Anne Marie Smith and the author, Godfrey Smith: Godfrey Smith - Author, Michael Manley: The Biography: "I consider Michael Manley to be the most gifted, charismatic, articulate, elegant, brilliant, statesman and politician the Caribbean has known and whose likeness shall never be seen again. Why is that important? Because we're surrounded by politics everyday whether you're involved with a party or not. And I think it's good to have somebody to measure against."

Belizean Arrested In LA
Yesterday in Los Angeles, Trenton Lovell, a Belizean, was arrested by police. Lovell was wanted for the murder of Sergeant Steve Owen. According to reports, on Wednesday Owen and his partner responded to a 911 call at an apartment complex in Lancaster, California. Owen’s partner went to check the back of the building, while Owen covered the front. It was then that Lovell opened fire on Owen, using a stolen hand gun. Lovell fired four additional shots into Owen’s chest leaving him in critical condition. Owen succumbed to his injuries later that day. According to Los Angeles County Sheriff, Lovell has been in and out of police custody for years. He has been arrested 11 times for crimes ranging from selling marijuana on the street to armed robbery.

The Reporter

GOB announces the first meeting of the Senate Special Select Committee
The Government of Belize (GOB) this week announced the date for the first meeting of the Senate Special Select Committee, which will conduct an inquiry into the incidents of wrongdoing cited in the Auditor General’s Special Report of the Immigration and Nationality Department. GOB announced that the Committee will meet on Wednesday,October 12th at the National Assembly building. The President of the Senate, Lee Mark Chang set the date according to Standing Order 72 (7) of the Senate. GOB also announced that the members making up the Committee will be Senators: Aldo Salazar, Dr. Carla Barnett, Reverend Ashley Rocke, Markhelm Lizaraga, and Elena Smith.

Long weekend off to a violent start
Police are working to try and curb a violent outbreak this weekend, after two shooting incidents left five people injured Friday night, including a police constable and a Belize Defense Force (BDF) soldier. Officer Commanding Police Eastern Division South, Assistant Commissioner of Police Chester Williams, explained that the first incident happened on Raccoon Street at around 9 p.m., where 27-year-old Florentino Ruiz and 24-year old Angel Antonio Ruiz suffered varying gunshot wounds. Florentino Ruiz got shot to the lower left side of the chest and the left shoulder, while Angel Ruiz got shot to the left cheek bone. Both men are in stable condition at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH).

Breaking Belize News

Belize Youths represent at 1st SICA Youth Forum in Nicaragua
A youth delegation led by CARICOM Youth Ambassador Tarun Butcher travelled to Managua, Nicaragua to represent Belize at the first ever SICA Youth Forum held on the 6th and 7th of October. The Belize contingent of youth leaders are Tarun Butcher, Juan Cal, Maelyn Rodney, […]

TIDE fish festival held this weekend in Punta Gorda
Annually, TIDE celebrates the community and conservation efforts of Punta Gorda town and surrounding communities. This year, TIDE planned its celebration under the theme “Our planet at the crossroads: Be the change.” The weekend events started on Friday with the annual fundraising seafood galla. Activities […]

Fair weather expected to continue
The 24 hour forecast is for sunny skies with a few cloudy spells today and partly cloudy tonight. Showers or thunderstorms will be generally isolated across the country, except in the south where a few more showers or thunderstorms are likely to occur. The […]

Belize Red Cross launches appeal for Haiti
The Belize Red Cross has expressed its solidarity for Caribbean countries affected by Hurricane Matthew including Jamaica, Haiti and the Bahamas. Hurricane Matthew continues to ravage eastern and central Florida as it makes its way northward. The Belize Red Cross announced that the International Federation […]

Five people shot last night in Belize City
Reports are that there were two separate shootings last night on the south side of Belize leaving five people injured. All five men have been hospitalized including a police officer and a BDF soldier. Assistant Commissioner of Police Chester Williams explained that the first incident […]

Is there a possible shutdown by the Chamber?
The Select Senate inquiry into the Auditor General’s special report on the Immigration and Nationality Department, for 2011-2013 is at the front of the agenda for the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The Chamber has been criticized for appearing to staying on the back […]

Special Select Committee’s first meeting on Wednesday
A special communique was sent out yesterday whereby the Clerk of the National assembly announced that the Senate Select Committee established last Friday will meet on Wednesday morning. The senators that will participate are: Dr. Carla Barnett and Aldo Salazar, government’s representatives; Church Senator Ashley […]

Teachers to continue Public awareness campaign
The BNTU announced yesterday, that the strike continues and informed all teachers that on Tuesday, October 11, 2016 they are to proceed with their public awareness/ education campaign. They have also been encouraged to partake in community service works. President of the BNTU told the […]

Belize Jaguars vs. Los Catrachos de Honduras
Belizeans have been waiting with much anticipation for the football game between the national teams of Belize and Honduras. This week, Belize’s Pro Footballer of the Montreal Impacts, Micheal Salazar came back to the country to participate in the match. The Belize national team take […]

Man stabbed to death in San Ignacio Town; police are investigating
A man was murdered in San Ignacio Town early this morning. According to reports, a female police officer was on her way to work when she found the man with stabbed wounds to the neck at a bus stop on Joseph Andrews drive. The man […]

Blogs

Battle of the Drums and Food Fete
From November 11-13, 2016, the town of Punta Gorda will play host to the 11th annual Battle of the Drums and Food and Fete competition. The festival celebrates the pride and musical traditions of Belize’s Garifuna culture with dozens of Garifuna music bands competing for the grand prize in a variety of styles like Punta, Chumba, Wanaragua, Hungu, and Paranda. The festival will begin at 7:30 PM on November 11, 2016, at the Toledo Community College in Punta Gorda Town and will continue throughout the night until 3:00 AM. While Garifuna artists from all over the country entertain festivalgoers with their lively drumming, the Food and Fete part of the festival will give attendees the opportunity to sample savory and sweet concoctions from the rich palate of Garifuna traditional dishes, including cassava bread, tapou (fish, green banana, and root vegetable soup), hudut (a savory stew made from fish, coconut, and bananas), and cassava pudding. As part of the Food and Fete part of the festival, there will be a Taste of Garifuna competition with top local cooks battling to whip up the tastiest dish.

Videos

October 8, 2016

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

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, Rise and Shine Morning Show, and the Dickie Bradley Specials

The San Pedro Sun

Hand-Over Ceremony of the Belize Coast Guard Maintenance Facility
On October 11, at 10:00 at the Belize Coast Guard Base 4 ½ miles George Price Highway, the United States Ambassador to Belize, Honorable Carlos Moreno, will hand over a boat maintenance facility to the Belize Coast Guard. This facility will enhance the Belize Coast Guard’s maintenance capabilities. It also includes rooms for added storage, training, billeting space, and a medical clinic. The United States Government provided USD $2.23 million to fund the facility and USD $483,000 of sustainment parts, maintenance equipment, and personal protective gear. Since 2011, the United States, through U.S. Southern Command’s counter narcotics program, has contributed more than USD $30 million to build the capacity of the Belize Coast Guard and Belize Defense Force.

San Pedro Kids Club: An after-school program for island children
In an effort to make San Pedro a more “Child-friendly” municipality, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) introduced the San Pedro Kids Club on Monday, October 3rd as the island’s new after-school program. This club was created to allow primary students to receive tutoring, engage in fun games, create arts and crafts, and play sports. Free of cost, the club runs from Monday to Thursday, 2:30PM to 5:30PM, at the Honorable Louis Sylvestre Sports Complex. Due to the recent strikes by the Belize National Teacher’s Union (BNTU), student participation was minimal. However, the kids club remained open for those who wished to attend. The club is operated by founders Dee Regis, Brittney O’Daniel, Britney Travis and Kaitlin McWhorter, Arts and Crafts Coordinator Carolina Kumul, Sports Coordinator Josean Kay, and volunteers of Sagebrush Ministries, who all believe that students are the shining stars of the future. According to them, 150 students from across the island have already registered.

Belize’s recovery after Hurricane Earl
After sweeping across Belize on August 3, 2016, Hurricane Earl is estimated to have caused $183.6 million in damages to both the agriculture and tourism sectors. Since then, several international organizations donated funds towards the relief efforts. Two months later, Belizeans are still recovering from the disaster and the Government of Belize (GOB) claims it is doing its best to make do with the resources available.

Lady Dixie Bowen inducted to Brentwood High Hall of Fame
As an alumna of Brentwood High School (BHS) Class of 1970, Lady Dixie Bowen, founder of The Island Academy (TIA), was among five others nominated and inducted into her high school’s Class of 2016 Hall of Fame in Brentwood, Missouri, USA. In order to be nominated, inductees must have achieved distinction in a particular area including, academics, athletics, business, community service, science, medicine, military service, public service, performing or visual arts, and Brentwood’s Alumni Association noted Bowen for being an exemplary alumna of the school.

Oceana in Belize questions Belize’s intent to participate in Sea Seep Survey
A press release sent out from the Ministry of Economic Development, Petroleum and Geology Department on Wednesday, September 28th, stated that they will be conducting a multi-beam and sea seep survey to the east of the Belize Barrier Reef. The survey would be conducted in the exclusive economic zone excluding all marine protected areas, as well as areas banned from petroleum exploration. The release explains that the sole purpose of the project is to gather new regional data to advance the knowledge of geology and hydrocarbon systems. However, the Belize Coalition to Save Our Natural Heritage, along with Oceana in Belize, are not convinced about the project’s environmentally friendly scheme, and are thus opposing the project.

Ambergris Today

Pic of the Week - Crocodile Goes on Golf Cart Ride
Island Problems - Living in and around the mangrove forests that comprise a majority of the island's topography, it is not that strange to encounter wild creatures such as the salt water crocodile that in habit Ambergris Caye. On her way to work, local island resident Melody Wolfe encountered this scene just across the Boca del Rio Bridge. She said; "Just another normal day driving to work." I guess its just a normal part of living on Ambergris Caye. Chris Summers of the Ambergris Crocodile Education Sanctuary (ACES) is pictured here after wrangling this average-sized crocodile and loading it on his golf cart to remove it from the populated area. His job, to examine the wild animal, take measurements and data and then relocate it to a less populated area of the island. Chris is the local Crocodile Dundee. THANKS CHRIS & ACES.

Letter from Roman Catholic Bishops on Teacher's Strike
With this letter we want to reiterate our support for all those pushing the Government of Belize to implement policies and laws to monitor and enforce good governance. Now that the Prime Minister has expressed a willingness and desire to go back to the negotiating table, we support the appeal for students and teachers to get back to the classroom. The education of our young people is our primary concern. Other means besides strikes can be used to pressure the government for reforms to insure good governance. We call on the BNTU and other unions, other social partners, the opposition and the Government of Belize to work together to see that these reforms are set into law in the coming weeks and months. The commitment of GOB to sign the United Nations Convention Against Corruption on December 9, 2016 is one good sign of movement in this area.

A New Member Joins the ‘A’ Team
As we embarked on our newest adventure to Travel Belize and began to immerse ourselves in the diverse cultures and destinations that it has to offer, our Ambergris Today team recognized the need to have someone at our home base to continue bringing you “News with a Positive Attitude”. We went in search of someone local or with enough time on Ambergris Caye to know our people and what matters to you, our audience. It had to be someone with a passion for writing, creativity and pull towards new online trends. Our task was not easy, but one we took very seriously. We hope that you, our readers, will be happy with our decision as we proudly welcome Solani Graniel as Ambergris Today’s newest team member.

Misc Belizean Sources

FREE Ear Cleaning, Hearing Aid Selection & Fitting
Dr. Buddy Fewell and team from Louisville will be providing FREE Ear Cleaning, Mold Making Hearing Aid Selection & Fitting at the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic on Monday October 31st, 2016 starting at 8am.

Anti human trafficking measures
Yesterday 12 persons completed a 4 day training of trainers programme on anti human trafficking measures. The participants came from the Immigration and Labour Departments, Ministry of Human Development, the Police Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Health. The training was facilitated by the International Organisation for Migration with funding from the US Government

SBDC Workshop: ENTREPRENEURSHIP DEVELOPMENT
Presented by: Mr. Jorge Gentle, Business Advisor SBDCBelize, Beltraide. Location: BTEC Building, ITVET Compound, Freetown Road, Belize City. Workshop Date: 13th October, 2016 Time: 9am to 4pm. The overall objective of this training is to equip our clients with knowledge, skills, and capabilities necessary to self-analyze their capacity as entrepreneurs, and be able to be innovative and develop the capacity to think outside of the box. Cost: $40.00, Includes snacks and Lunch.

YOA Orchestra of the Americas Southern Cone Tour Scholarship
National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) in conjunction with YOA Orchestra of the Americas invite all Belizean musicians to audition for a scholarship to participate in YOA’s Southern Cone Tour in the Summer of 2017.

Bird Conservation Program in the Chiquibul
FCD signed an agreement with Biologist/Artist/Writer - Mr. Marcus England based at Los Angeles for the development of a Bird Conservation Program in the Chiquibul. We are excited on this partnership.

Urban Birdwatch: Dangriga
Dangriga get those shorebirds and hudut ready for tomorrow. The birding crowd is coming your way!

The Belizean YLAI participants have arrived in the U.S. and are ready to represent Belize!
Lets wish them good luck for the next few weeks!!!

History of the San Pedro Sun
On March 13, 1991 the first issue of the San Pedro Sun was printed....The San Pedro House of Culture will launch the exhibit on the growth and coverage of San Pedro new over the last 25 years. Join us as we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the San Pedro Sun.

Monthly Weather Summary, September 2016
September 2016 in Belize was mostly moist, especially over the south and over inland areas. The first day started with a few showers and isolated thunderstorms over the south. On the second and third day, fair weather prevailed, with only isolated showers and isolated thunderstorms. On the second night, however, the south experienced a few more. On the fourth day, a weak tropical wave approached the country. This wave was associated with moisture preceding it and so a few showers and thunderstorms affected the country on the fourth and fifth. The following two days were sunny and fair with isolated showers and isolated thunderstorms. Another tropical wave affected the country on the eighth and ninth day. The north of the country experienced the bulk of the rainfall. Mainly fair weather followed on the tenth and eleventh day, except for afternoon hours, when inland areas experienced a few showers and thunderstorms.

Prime Minister requests BNTU to return to negotiating table
In a letter dated today, Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow wrote to the BNTU President formally requesting BNTU to return to the negotiating table

World Standards Day 2016
Government of Belize Press Office

Senate Special Select Committee Composition
Senate select committee composition is now official according to Senate President Chang. The senate composition has already passed in the senate to reflect the balance of power in the senate based on senate standing orders. Pup has 3 senators = 1 senator. UDP has 6 senators = 2 senators. 1 for church, 1 for unions and 1 for business. Total of 6 senators. All on the committee will have their chance to question relevant witnesses. We should be meeting shortly to confirm who will be on senate select committee. Then they will decide who is the chairman/chairwoman and start inquiry.

FCD will be hiring a Landscape Manager for the Vaca Forest Reserve
This activity forms part of the Chiquibul Forest Investment Initiative.

Belize Raptor Watch T-shirt campaign!
The 2016 Belize Raptor Watch is well underway and today we are launching a T-shirt campaign! Sport the new Belize Raptor Watch T-shirt and support raptor conservation at the same time. Our goal is to sell at least 50 shirts! All profits will go directly toward raptor research efforts and outreach in Belize. Check out the T-shirt at the link below, and score one of these awesome shirts before October 27th!

Channel 5

Strike Will Continue Into Next Week, But B.N.T.U. Up for Negotiations
There will be at least a sixth day of industrial action organized by the Belize National Teachers’ Union on Tuesday because Monday is a holiday. That is the news coming [...]

P.M. Says He Will Meet With B.N.T.U. as Part of Umbrella N.T.U.C.B.
Within a few hours of Luke Palacio’s statement, the Prime Minister responded. He wrote to the B.N.T.U. president saying that Palacio’s statement is a fig leaf. According to the Prime [...]

Teachers Will Continue Community Service and Public Education Campaign
So while they will be out of school once more, the teachers will not be idle. According to B.N.T.U. National President Luke Palacio, the teaching corps will be hitting the [...]

B.N.T.U. Executives Chastise Foreign Affairs Minister
Minister of Foreign Affairs Wilfred Elrington, speaking to reporters over the weekend following a meeting of the United Democratic Party’s National Party Council, made statements on the then-coming industrial action [...]

Teachers’ Union Salutes Catholic Bishop, Rebukes Papal Nuncio
The Teachers’ Union also addressed the ongoing concern with the Roman Catholic management. Following a letter from Bishop Dorrick Wright addressing the strike plans, the Papal Nuncio visited Belize during [...]

Teachers and Chamber of Commerce Meet Next Week
As has been reported, the Belize National Teachers’ Union and Chamber of Commerce and Industry have been in dialogue concerning the ongoing industrial action. We will have more on the [...]

B.C.C.I. to Decide on Role with Senate Inquiry, Possible Shutdown
But the ongoing teachers’ strike has somewhat overshadowed the Select Senate Inquiry into the Auditor General’s Special Report on the Immigration and Nationality Department, for 2011-2013. But the issue is [...]

G.O.B. Names Members of Special Committee; First Meeting on Wednesday
While the B.C.C.I. is yet to make a determination, the Government has pulled a fast one. The Clerk of the National Assembly announced that the Senate Select Committee established last [...]

Fire Victims Flown out to U.S. for Life-Saving Treatment
This afternoon, two minors severely burnt in an act of arson were airlifted to the United States. Four-year old Ian Sambula and eight-year old Empress Hamilton sustained burns to ninety [...]

Funds Needed to Pay for Air Ambulances
Yvette Burks of Burn Victim Mercy Fund is asking for assistance to repay a loan she took out to cover the cost of airlifting the burn victims to the Shriner’s [...]

Godfrey Smith Releases “The Biography of Michael Manley”
Attorney and author Godfrey Smith has released his second book, which he describes as the definitive biography of late Jamaican statesman Michael Manley. He previously wrote to great acclaim the [...]

Man Charged With “Going Equipped” to Burglarize House
A neighbourhood watch on Coral Grove Drive, Belize City, and quick response to a burglary in progress led to the arrest of a well-known criminal figure of Guadalupe Street. This [...]

Accused in Sex Assault Case is Cleared in Court
Back in March, we told you about thirty nine year old Amador Pott who was charged with sexual assault, exposing his person in public and using insulting words. Well, last [...]

Caleb Orozco Celebrates Gay Partners Taking Cases to Court
Domestic violence, unfortunately, is not unusual; many cases are reported at the Family Court and Magistrate’s Courts on a daily basis. But since August tenth, when Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin [...]

Foreign Affairs Minister Takes Credit for U.N. Speech
Minister for Foreign Affairs Wilfred Elrington, known for his cautious approach on the international stage with the Guatemalan claim, earned rare cheers for what was seen as a stronger position [...]

Guatemala and Belize Advance Efforts to Resolve Dispute
The Minister of Foreign Affairs Wilfred Elrington also spoke on how things are moving with relation to Guatemala’s unfounded claim to Belize. There are two significant developments. First, Guatemala’s Congress [...]

World Mental Health Day Observed
Every year, World Mental Health Day is celebrated on October tenth. The theme this year is focused on Psychological First Aid and the support people can provide to those in [...]

Pastors Meet to Boost Spiritual Work
This week, pastors from across denominational lines and the country converged at the Biltmore Plaza for a three-day conference funded by the Houston Texas Healing Church in the U.S.  The [...]

Teachers Training in Science Education under UNESCO
A two-day workshop to train teachers in science education was underway today in Belize City. Fifteen primary school teachers from across the country were hard at work with micro science [...]

Amandala

Brother kills brother
The Cain family in Louisiana, Orange Walk Town, is mourning the death of their eldest son, Ruben, 41, who died after he was stabbed by his younger brother, who is now in police custody. The incident occurred at about 3:45 p.m. yesterday afternoon in the family’s yard in Louisiana. Witnesses said that Ruben and his sibling became involved in an argument which escalated, and Ruben was stabbed in the chest. Police said that when they arrived at the scene, they saw a man lying on the ground with a stab wound in his chest, but he was still breathing. He was rushed to the Northern Regional Hospital, but he was declared dead on arrival. Police said that the deceased’s brother was arrested near the family residence, and that he did not resist arrest.

Trenton Lovell, 27, accused of murdering LA deputy Sheriff
Trenton Trevor Lovell, 27, a Belizean man who was on parole in Lancaster, Los Angeles, USA, was identified this afternoon as the man accused of shooting a veteran Los Angeles Sheriff Sergeant, Steve Owens, 53, stealing his patrol cruiser and then ramming it into another police mobile, resulting in the injury of another deputy. News reports published today indicate that Lovell had been booked at the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station on Wednesday at 5:25 p.m., and held in lieu of $2 million. In an account posted yesterday by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) homicide investigators learned that shortly after noon, their Lancaster Station received a call of a burglary at 3200 block of West Avenue J-7 in Lancaster, where Lovell had been staying at an apartment with his sister.

Arsonist’s fire kills child, 11
The Hamilton family on Aloe Vera Street in Lake Independence has not only lost the place they called home, but the life of an innocent 11-year-old child that was their son, nephew and brother. Seven persons, of whom four were children, were all at the Hamilton’s residence sometime after 8 o’clock on Tuesday night when an arsonist and now murderer stormed inside. He quickly doused the living room with gasoline and also threw some on the father, struck some matchsticks and ran outside. Aaron Gabourel, a student at Stella Maris, was asleep in his bed at the time. His father, Winston Gabourel, Sr., who was partly on fire, nevertheless ran to the bedroom to try to rescue his sleeping son. However, it was a failed attempt. The child had been too badly burnt on his arms and back, and lost his life as a result of the fire.

BNTU industrial action continues into its 5th day – Friday!
After 96 uninterrupted hours of industrial action, intense meetings and community canvassing, the teachers of the Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU) today showed no signs of exhaustion or exasperation as they militantly marched throughout the streets of Belize City. In mid-August, following the damages brought on by Hurricane Earl, Prime Minister Dean Barrow had met with the BNTU, the Public Service Union (PSU) and the Association of Public Service Senior Managers (APSSM) to discuss a deferral of promised salary increases of 3% until next April. While the other two unions had without reluctance accepted the deferral, the BNTU had insisted that it would only accept such a deferral on the condition that the government favorably responded to its 8 demands, which it believe would have contributed to good governance. Included in the eight demands were the appointment of the 13th Senator, the removal of Minister Godwin Hulse as Minister of Police, an international investigation into the William “Danny” Mason case, and the re-institution of the Integrity Commission and the Public Accounts Committee.

Brenae Timmons’ parents file lawsuit for Samuel Haynes Institute iron gate accident
A near tragic accident occurred on January 29, shortly after 6:00 p.m., in Lake Independence when an iron gate at the entrance of the Samuel Haynes Institute fell on top of 3-year-old Brenae Timmons, who had to remain in an induced coma for two weeks, and was hospitalized for 36 days—an ordeal that has damaged her brain. Brenae Timmons and her parents have retained attorney Hon. Kareem Musa, who filed a claim in the Supreme Court seeking general damages and special damages resulting from the accident. Brenae Timmons is named as the first claimant in the lawsuit, and, on her behalf, general damages are being sought for the severe head and brain injuries she sustained as a result of the accident. Her mother, Keisha Reneau and Bernard Timmons, her father, are named as the second claimants, in the lawsuit and they are seeking special damages.

Mayaro fever, a new viral disease, on the radar
A new wave of viral diseases caused by mosquitos has been sweeping our region, the most recent being the Zika virus, which could go undetected in the vast majority of people who contract it, but which could result in significant effects on patients, including a paralyzing condition known as Guillain-Barré syndrome. While there have been no cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome in Belize associated with Zika and no Zika-associated cases of microcephaly confirmed, the country has seen nearly 600 clinically suspected cases. Notably, this exceeds the number of clinically suspected dengue cases, which totaled 321 up to September 24. The first case of Zika was confirmed in Belize in May, and since then, it has cropped up in every district, with the bulk of cases being confirmed in the Belize and Cayo Districts. However, there are thousands of other cases where patients have been found to have Zika or dengue-like symptoms which remain a mystery, since those individuals have tested negative for the arboviruses (viruses transmitted by arthropods such as mosquitos) known to be circulating in Belize. Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero, underscored the need for alertness.

Toledo Union Field now Victor Sanchez Union Field
According to information we received today from Freedom Fighters FC manager, Clifford King, the old Toledo Union Field, which has undergone major renovations, causing previous home games for the Freedom Fighters to be played elsewhere, will be opened under a new name this Sunday, October 9, when they host the visiting FC Belize in Week 9 of the Premier League of Belize Opening Season 2016-2017. We asked Cliff about the reason for the name change and he promised to do some further research, but gave us this preliminary response: “I only recall Victor Sanchez briefly in his playing days, but more so as coach and football enthusiast in PG. He was even one of the local referees at one point.

2 defending champs fall in SSBA Basketball Tournament
The San Ignacio & Santa Elena Basketball Association (SSBA) hosted its third week of basketball games at the Victor Galvez Stadium in San Ignacio Town over the weekened. On Friday night, Belmopan defeated Cayo Storm, 42-34, in the Under 19 division. Denzel Brown was the top scorer in the game with 12 points, while Gabriel Hyde and Gerjen Hernandez netted 9 pts apiece in the win. Cayo Storm was led by Robert Jeffries and Kahlil Rancharan, who tallied 9 pts each. In game 2, Tuff Enuff up ended the defending U23 champs, 54-47. Douglas Valley had the game high with 16 pts, while Brian White and Sydney Bradley scored 13 and 11 pts, respectively. The top scorer for McRoe Lions was Francis Arana with 15 pts, while Jamal Augustine and Ian Rene tallied 12 and 10 pts, respectively. In the nightcap, Belmopan Print Belize was a no-show, giving the victory to Panthers in the Senior category.

Belize finishes third at AFECAVOL WCQT
Belize finished third at the AFECAVOL Men’s FIVB World Championship qualification tournament, after winning over Honduras 3-0 (25-16, 26-24, 25-15) at St. Catherine Academy Center of Belize City. Belize ended a 16-year drought of not reaching the podium in a major event. A festive crowd packed the SCA Center to watch Belize fire-up against Honduras with an exciting victory. Belize finished the event with 4-2 win-loss record, 18 points and third place. Honduras ended with 1-5, 8 points and sixth position. Belize had an impressive 11-4 blocking margin, stopping Honduras’ intentions in keeping the ball on their side of the court. Belize also held advantage in kills (38-30) and in serves (4-1); they scored on 23 opponent errors and committed 20 of their own.

Belmopan F.A. Kids, Female and Youth Cup 2016 Closing Tournament Week 6 results
The Belmopan Football Association’s, (BFA) Kids, Female and Youth Cup 2016 Closing Tournament, sponsored by Hon. John Saldivar continued with Week 6 games over the weekend at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium. In game 1 on Saturday, starting at 9:00 a.m., (U-13) Mountain View Revolution dropped Bandits, 2-1, with Allen Umana (8’ & 15’) netting both goals for Mountain View, while Allen Jones (32’) scored for the Bandits. In game 2, (U-13) Police Cadets bombed Armenia Red Dragon, 7-1, with goals coming from Alexander Waight (5’), Deron Guzman (12’), Dion Guzman (14’), Joseph Linarez (17’ & 21’) and Javier Ramos (24’), along with an own goal by Armenia’s Kenny Garcia (28’ auto goal); while Bryan Medrano (42’) got the lone goal for Armenia. In game 3, it was Piccini Rising Star, 4-1, over Salvapan FC. Piccini goals were by Michichal Duane (7’), Payravaughn Guy (31’), Herman Martinez (38’) and Antwone Lewis (41’); while Nigel Hernandez (43’) scored for Salvapan. Game 4 (Female U-17) saw Valley of Peace Girls with the 3-1 win over San Martin Medina’s Girls. Shaking the net for Valley of Peace Girls were Glendy Arevalo (15’) and Angelica Magana (35’ & 40’), while Ashly Rodriguez (45’) got the sole tally for San Martin Medina’s Girls.

Rome to Belmopan’s rescue
A couple weeks ago we had described the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) as an irresistible force and the Government of Belize as the immoveable object. In the Wednesday evening national radio and television newscasts this week, the immoveable object delivered a devastating blow to the momentum of the irresistible force. It was hours before a critical series of rallies by the striking teachers of Belize in the cities and towns of the nation scheduled for Thursday morning, October 7. In comments to the Belizean media on Wednesday after a meeting with the Prime Minister of Belize, Rt. Hon. Dean O. Barrow, the Papal Nuncio for Belize and El Salvador, Archbishop Leon Kalenga Badikebele, said everything the United Democratic Party (UDP) propagandists had been saying and everything the Government of Belize wanted to hear. The children belonged in school. The teachers should end the strike and return to the negotiating table. It was the Opposition which should be taking the initiatives the teachers of Belize had been taking.

From the Publisher
A close relative of mine visiting from the United States last week was berating me about criticisms I’ve expressed over the decades with respect to what he called Belize’s “creation story” or “creation myth.” He felt I had been doing a disservice where a vital part of our national narrative was concerned. He was, of course, referring to the Battle of St. George’s Caye history. In my old age, I try to avoid opinionated discussions with younger family members, because I have found over the years that such conversations become too heated, and end up as quarrels. As such, they serve no purpose. We were drinking a little wine at the time, and it appears this was a complaint he had wanted to make to me for a long time. I saw how dangerous such a conversation could become, and I did my best to humble myself and be calm, but while the conversation did not become explosive, it definitely became hostile.

Breaking News!
Dear Editor, Sealed indictments are being prepared against Belizean politicians! Secret Swiss and Caribbean bank accounts being investigated! Ambiguity discovered in tax-returns! Disgruntled cronies spill the beans! Just kidding! But it’s a thought…. Speaking of the plutocratic class, I read where Sedi Elrington’s arrogance and sense of self-importance was on display yet again, blinding him as to what’s really going on in the country. Misinterpreting the BNTU’s legitimate concerns over how Belize is being governed and how —as citizens— they are giving collective voice to these issues, Elrington seems to believe the teachers should “stay in their place” (House Negro?, Field Negro?, Uncle Remus?), and that they have no right to their demonstrations, and in addition, are too dumb to realize they can never breathe the exalted air he inhales!

Retirement Age in Belize Revisited
There is a close correlation between a person’s retirement age, pension and social security benefits in that they normally fall relatively close to each other. Though a country’s standard retirement age varies, the norm is between the ages of 55 and 70 years; with some being higher. The retirement age for most countries in this region falls between 60 and 65 years. Belize on the other hand has one of the lowest mandatory retirement ages of 55 years for employees of the Public Service, the largest employer in the country. The only other country with a similarly low retirement age of 55 years is Haiti. The variation between the retirement age for public servants and the age at which a person can access Belize’s Social Security benefits is wide — with the retirement age being 55 and the age for accessing social security benefits being 60 for retired persons and age 65 if you continue to work. This leaves a gap of 5 to 10 years leading to a level of uncertainty for retirees. Those in the private sector, according to the labour laws, may retire after attaining the age of 60 and after being employed for 10 years. Judges are given a little more time, with a retirement age of 65, but magistrates fall within the Public Service retirement scheme. According to a memo dated 2010 from the Ministry of Education, teachers are allowed to work until 60 once “they convey their decision in writing…to continue in the teaching profession in advance”.

USAID exits Belize
There have been recent reports that the US-financed program, Pan American Social Marketing Organization (PASMO), a social marketing program which began operating in Belize in 1999, has closed its doors in Belize and yesterday, it was formally announced that United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which also finances the Spanish program, PASCA: the Program for Strengthening the Central American Response to HIV, would cease having a direct presence in Belize. The programs have been active in helping the Government of Belize with its response to HIV/AIDS, and Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero, told the press Wednesday that something would have to be done to subsume the work under some other entity. A press release from the US Embassy in Belize noted that, “Since 2002, the United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), in large part thanks to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), has provided over US$4.25 million to the fight against HIV/AIDS in Belize and over 21 organizations in Belize have received support.”

Protesters (not BNTU) burn tires on BelCan Bridge
On April 20, 2005, the BelCan Bridge recorded a dramatic clash between police officers and supporters of the then Opposition United Democratic Party (UDP), joined by university students. That clash was a part of a sustained campaign against the administration of former Prime Minister, Said Musa, which had allegedly engaged in massive corruption. Eleven years, five months and three days later, BelCan Bridge would again record another clash between civilians and the state. However, this time it would be against the ruling United Democratic Party (UDP) government, under pressure by the Belize National Teachers’ Union, which is engaging in continued industrial action until government favorably responds to its 8-point demands for better governance.

The Reporter

Strike continues!
The Belize National Teacher’s Union (BNTU), after a full day of meetings, has decided to extend its sustained strike action against the Government of Belize into next week. The BNTU’s Council of Management met today, and the branch offices also held membership meetings to decide that teachers would not return to their classrooms on Tuesday. The union says that it is prepared to meet with Prime Minister Dean Barrow to resume negotiations on its eight-point list of good governance demands. The Union however, says it will await a formal invitation from the Prime Minister before going back to negotiate. The Union also said that it wants an apology from Minister of Foreign Affairs Wilfred Elrington for remarks he made against the teachers this week.

Chamber of Commerce considers shutdown
The Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) is considering a one day shutdown if the Government of Belize does not comply with its good governance demands. The BCCI said today that it will meet on October 12, for a special General Meeting, which will focus around the Senate Special Select Committee assembled to review the findings of the Auditor General’s Special Audit Report on the Immigration and Nationality Department, and on good governance matters, such as the installation of the 13th Senator, the reconfiguration of the Public Accounts Committee, and activation of the Integrity Commission. “Members did not feel that the motion that passed had either a composition or terms of reference that would allow for a thorough investigation of the matter. Therefore, a resolution will be presented for members to vote on sending our motion back to the Senate for full acceptance, or have a one-day shutdown if motion is not successful,” The Chamber said.

Mental Health parade hits Belize City streets
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with various other ministries and organizations, held its third annual Mental Health Walk through the streets of Belize City this morning. Participants, which included students from Wesley College, marched from Cleopatra White Polyclinic II, to the Battle Field Park, via Central American Boulevard, Cemetery Road, Orange Street, Albert Street and Regent Street. The Ministry followed up with a ceremony at the park, which entailed speeches by several guest speakers, including the Minister of Health Pablo Marin, Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry, Dr. Ramon Figueroa, and special guest speaker Kim Simplis Barrow, wife of the Prime Minister and Special Envoy for Women and Children.

Breaking Belize News

DYS Rep speaks of National Youth Party at BNTU’s rally
Shawn Saldano, the Public relations representative for the Department of Youth Services (DYS) was present yesterday at the BNTU’s rally in Belize city. Saldano gave a vivacious speech expressing his full support for the educators and also making it known that by doing so, […]

Patrick Faber says Elrington’s comments are ‘Unfortunate’
Foreign Minister Wilfred Elringron in an interview with the media had referred to the educators as not knowing whether they have the “wisdom, ability of competence to deal with those issues.” On the Open Your Eyes morning show, Minister of Education Patrick Faber was asked […]

Prime Minister will meet, but with N.T.U.C.B.
Prime Minister Dean Barrow has written to BNTU president Luke Palacio, stating that the BNTU’s request for a meeting has been trumped by its umbrella organization, the National Trade Union Congress of Belize. Palacio’s claim that no formal request has been made to return to […]

Chamber to decide on approach for BNTU’s request for solidarity
The Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) has not come out in full force in supporting the teachers. This is because, the Chamber is in a surveying process to determine how their members would respond to the BNTU’s call for their solidarity. Senator […]

Belize Bureau of Standards to observe World Standards Day
The Belize Bureau of Standards (BBS) has announced that World Standards Day will be internationally observed on October 14, 2016 under the theme “STANDARDS BUILD TRUST”. The BBS says that, “This year’s theme highlights that standards in everyday life instill trust and create a uniform […]

Teacher’s strike will continue
Belize National Teacher’s Union president Luke Palacio confirmed this evening that the industrial action which commenced on Monday continues at least to Tuesday. However, he opened the doors to a possible meeting on Tuesday or Wednesday, provided the Prime Minister formally reaches out to the […]

Catholic Diocese issues unsigned letter telling teachers to go back to the classroom
The teachers absence from classrooms across the country was felt yesterday, with rallies held in every district. Yesterday, the Catholic Bishops, Dorick Wright and Christopher Glancey sent out a letter saying it’s time to go back to school. The letter reads “We want to reiterate […]

Benque Viejo bus terminal closed
The bus terminal in Benque Viejo Town has been closed down and is causing a major inconvenience because buses have to park on the side of the road to load and off load passengers. A source told BBN that commuters have to stand up in […]

Police officers in Orange Walk involved in human trafficking ring
A police corporal and a police constable from Orange Walk may be involved in a human trafficking ring. According to reports, the two officers have been detained in connection with human trafficking charges; however the police department has not yet released the full details of […]

Belize will soon have a court-connected arbitration facility
A Government of Belize press release is reporting that the Supreme Court of Belize will soon roll out a Court-connected Arbitration facility which will be the first of its kind in the Caribbean Region. “The first cohort of participants, comprising eighteen (18) lawyers drawn […]

Blogs

Have Fun Stay Fit
In addition to being the title for this write up, Have Fun Stay Fit is also the business name of the great new personal trainers on the island. My friend Sandie told me about them and I was so surprised and very pleased that the price was $10.00 BZD per session. Sara and Greg use a solid combination that works your body hard and create the custom workouts geared towards the individual’s needs and goals. Workout sessions last about 30-40 minutes and as mentioned above cost $10.00 Belize dollars – so worth it. They can be done with a group or on your own. If you do not opt to work out at their San Pablo area house, they will choose a time and location that fits your schedule. For me that was 10:00 am outside my house on Sunset dock. Although a few friends have shown interest in trying it, so far no one has stepped up to the plate and come. That has not stopped me though, once again I am trying to get back into shape.

Hot Gorgeous Weather Continues in Belize & A Few Events Around San Pedro
The first week of this month has been absolutely jaw-droppingly beautiful. A frequent visitor friend and diver asked me yesterday – “why don’t more people come down to Belize in October? It’s spectacular!” Things are relatively quiet on the island. There are tourists…but not that many. A few businesses are remodeling, new businesses are being built and our first wave of tourism will be Thanksgiving week…and then followed by Christmas. Perhaps the biggest week of the year. Monday is a holiday here in Belize – Pan-American Day. Columbus Day in the United States (he wasn’t so kind to people in these parts) and Thanksgiving in Canada. Here in San Pedro there is a huge magic show coming to town. There is something about magicians that makes me physically tense and angry – but this should be a pretty great show sponsored by the Rotary Club of Ambergris Caye.

International Sources

Cat Found On Side Of Road Looks Completely Different Now
The veterinarian didn't see any way to put this cat back together again. His jaw had probably been smashed for days. And all that crust on his face? That was actually blood and pus from infection. He couldn't keep his mouth closed or his tongue from hanging out of it. And that was bone poking through his gums. The vet figured he should be put down. But the woman who found him lying at the edge of a highway in Belize knew this cat had a will not just to live, but to be loved. "He had been purring the whole time in the car," Melissa, the woman who found the cat, tells The Dodo, "like he was glad to be safe finally." But the cat was too tiny for surgery. Besides, how would he ever be able to eat with a mouth like that? "I randomly had a tin of cat food in my purse, the kind with the gravy," recalls Melissa, who asked that he full name not be used for this story. "So we said, let's see if he can eat." The cat shoved his entire head in the bowl, soaking up the rich gravy, broken jaw and all. So, it was settled. The cat would go home with Melissa, and a ready supply of antibiotics.

World Heritage Marine Sites & Our Fight for Healthy Oceans
Since the first marine site was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1982, 49 sites in 37 countries stretching from the tropics to the poles have received this prestigious designation as an irreplaceable wonder of the world’s oceans. Yet these unique places are facing unprecedented challenges and change. Right now, more than 15 World Heritage marine sites are suffering from serious coral bleaching and a third of all World Heritage marine sites are still unsustainably or illegally fished. From August 27-31, the guardians of the 49 World Heritage marine sites gathered from around the world in the Galápagos Islands aboard the National Geographic Endeavor for UNESCO’s Third World Heritage Marine Managers Conference, looking to share resources and find smart solutions.

Flesh-Eating Worms Have Returned to Florida
Increased trade with Cuba might have brought the little buggers back. Screwworms do exactly what it sounds like screwworms do. The adults lay eggs in open wounds, and the hatched larvae burrow, corkscrew-like, through flesh. Screwworms ate their way into livestock, dogs, deer, and even humans in the U.S. until they were wiped out in 1982, in one of the most successful national eradication campaigns ever. This week, however, U.S. officials confirmed that the screwworm is back. Poor deer in a wildlife refuge in the Florida Keys had somehow picked up the parasite, the U.S.’s first local infestation in 30 years. The screwworm “sends shivers down every rancher's spine,” said Florida’s agricultural commissioner Adam Putnam in an unusually vivid official statement. “I've grown up hearing the horror stories from the last occurrence.”

Videos

October 7, 2016

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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, Rise and Shine Morning Show, and the Dickie Bradley Specials

The San Pedro Sun

DFC 2016 Expo highlights impact on Belize’s Economy
The Development Finance Corporation (DFC), held its Productive Sector Expo on Saturday, October 1st at the ITVET Courtyard in Belize City. The event celebrated DFC’s 53rd year of serving the people of Belize, and featured more than 30 booths from private companies who are clients/supporters of DFC. Some of the businesses at the expo included energy-saving companies which produce solar panels, juice companies, and people in the arts and craft industry. The expo was considered the first of its kind and it featured a cross spectrum of DFC clients from different parts of the country. Representing Ambergris Caye in the small Micro Sector was the Ambergris Sausage Factory, which was flanked by other businesses including those from the larger productive sector businesses such as Toucan Industries. Entrance was free, and visitors had a chance to win some fabulous gate prizes, including $500 cash, plus a stay in a luxurious resort. The fair also included phone promotions from Digicell and SMART, entertainment was provided for children, and food and drinks were on sale. At the fair, DFC took the opportunity to feature their services to potential new clients.

BWG seeks to raise funds for Polyclinic ultrasound machine
In October, Blue Water Grill (BWG), together with The Phoenix and Wine de Vine, will be holding their monthly donation drive for a grand project: an ultrasound machine for the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II. Many community members cannot afford to visit a private clinic, and according to BWG, this could result in many negative outcomes, particularly for women seeking prenatal care. Since Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II does not have an ultrasound machine, and it costs $32,000 to obtain one, these three businesses will be pledging the initial $16,000. BWG is hoping to receive a matching amount in donations in order to purchase an ultrasound machine for the clinic. If the goal is not met in October, BWG will continue the effort in November. As to their August donation drive, the San Pedro Kids Club, organized by Britney O’D6aniel, was the recipient of $1,612. BWG customers gave $397, which they matched, and guests of The Phoenix donated $409, which they also matched. The total was handed over to the club, which is a new after-school program geared for children in primary school.

Rotary Club presents Magic Show on La Isla Bonita
The Rotary Club of Ambergris Caye (RCAC) is excited to announce that Intermagia International Magic will be coming to La Isla Bonita on Monday, October 10th. For the first time, eight members from Spain, Chile, Guatemala, Mexico and Costa Rica will be providing a day filled with mystical magical entertainment and will be performing two shows at the Paradise Theater at 2PM (children) and 7PM (adults). The show will open with San Pedro’s own local tumbling group, The Saints. The RCAC is encouraging the public to join them for this great cause. Tickets are $10 per child, and adult tickets are $50 per person. For $100, you could enjoy reserved seating through “Chairs for Charity.” Reserved ticket holders will be seated in the front row, and will be offered food and beverage service.

PM Barrow is confident that Belize will recover from “recession”
The current financial hardships Belize is experiencing has caused the country’s economy to plunge. From damages inflicted by Hurricane Earl, to members of the Belize National Teacher’s Union (BNTU) demanding their 3% salary increase, and even the recent settlement made by the Government of Belize (GOB) with the Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL) arbitration, the country’s economy is facing many challenges. During his Independence Day address, Prime Minister Right Honorable Dean Barrow announced that the country is experiencing a recession. “And the economic backdrop to it all is, at this time, a complicating factor since we are experiencing a recession caused by the vagaries of the commodities cycle: agricultural sector disease, the drying up of our petroleum resources, and the crash in global prices. It is, of course, a recession made worse by Hurricane Earl. But it is also a recession from which, I must say at once, we will absolutely recover,” said PM Barrow.

Ambergris Today

Invitation to Marriage Couples Retreat
The San Pedro Roman Catholic church invites both married and engaged couples to attend a married couples retreat. If interested you can registration at the San Pedro Parish or call 226-2479 or email at [email protected]. Date: Saturday, October 22, 2016 from 6:30pm-10:00pm. And Sunday, October 23,2016 from 8:30-5:00pm. Place: Sun Breeze Hotel conference room. Fee:$100.00 per couple (snacks and lunch included).

DFC EXPO Highlights Impact on Belize’s Economy
Following DFC’s 53rd year of serving the people of Belize, The Development Finance Corporation (DFC) hosted its first Productive Sector EXPO at the ITVET Courtyard in Belize City which was held on Saturday October 1st, 2016. Entrance for the Public was free with attractions including a $500 cash prize and Resort stays as gate prizes, Double Up and Phone specials by Digicell and SMART, Entertainment for children, a Jingle Competition, food, drinks and more. DFC’s EXPO featured a cross spectrum of DFC clients; from small Micro Sector Enterprise businesses such as The Sausage Factory (San Pedro) and Gordon’s Installation and Express Cleaning (Belize City) to larger Productive sector business such as Toucan Industries (Caribbean Sunrise juices, Belmopan) and Black Orchid Resort (Burrell Boom) to name a few. Key developmental partners such as BELTRAIDE, the Central Building Authority, the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) and the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (5Cs) were also present.

Belize Assesses Progress of Hurricane Earl Recovery & Rebuilding Efforts
Minister of State for National Emergency Management Hon. Edmond Castro has met with National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) co-ordinators in Rural Belize District to assess the progress of the recovery and rebuilding efforts for victims of Hurricane Earl, which made landfall in Belize exactly two months ago on August 4, 2016. The rebuilding efforts have included construction of homes and assistance with material for needed repairs such as lumber and zinc. In the Belize District, material has been distributed from the NEMO Office and Warehouse on the Phillip Goldson Highway near the Burrell Boom Junction, with loading, transportation and offloading assistance by the Belize Defence Force.

Misc Belizean Sources

NEMO Minister of State and National Coordinator Hand Over Houses to Hurricane Earl Victims
Minister of State for National Emergency Management Hon. Edmond Castro and NEMO National Coordinator Colonel Shelton DeFour were in Rural Belize District yesterday, October 5, 2016 officially handing over houses to victims of Hurricane Earl whose homes had been damaged beyond repair. The number of houses completed so far is 60 out a total of over 180 which are expected to be constructed for victims in the four districts most affected by the Hurricane, namely Belize District, Cayo District, Stann Creek District and Orange Walk District. Also, 80 roofs have been repaired by contractors working for NEMO; and a total of over 1,400 victims have been assisted with material to repair their homes. NEMO National Coordinator Colonel Shelton DeFour says the rebuilding efforts should be completed by late November or early December.

BELTRAIDE Launches Fund for Entrepreneurs
BELTRAIDE along with the Regional Center for the Promotion of the Micro and Small Enterprise (CENPROMYPE) and the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan), today will announce the launch of the Belize Emprende Fund. The objective of the fund is to provide resources to dynamic entrepreneurs for the support and establishment of sound business ventures. Belizeans (whether individually or in teams) who are 18 years or older and have a strong business idea, or who have an existing business that has been operating for less than 3 years are being encouraged to apply for the Emprende grant. Thirty- six Belizeans will be awarded the opportunity to receive grant funding of a maximum of $5,555 US each.

Cooking with Villamil family and the Cano family in Xaibe
Wonderful afternoon spent with our cultural culinary artists; the Villamil family and the Cano family in Xaibe Village,as plans for the Hanal Pixan event on October 29th.are coming together. Delicious Maya cuisine will be on sale. We invite you to taste pipian, toxcel, pib de tamal, tamal colado, cochinita pibil, tamal de chaya, maja blanco, chocosacan and more!

BTB's Annual Tourism Industry Conference will be held Saturday October 22nd, 2016 from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM at the
BTB's Annual Tourism Industry Conference will be held Saturday October 22nd, 2016 from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM at the Ramada Belize City Princess. The Belize Tourism Board’s annual Tourism Industry Conference aims to share knowledge with our tourism industry partners on how to effectively operate in the industry based on past, present and future opportunities, threats and accomplishments.

Unique Belize
Have you heard of Unique Belize? The new Destination Belize has! The latest edition includes an article about the initiative which helps market the arts and crafts made by Belizeans! Click here! https://goo.gl/phVVGt (See page 38)

Paradise Theater playing this weekend
Star Trek Beyond, Ice Age: Collision Course, Ghostbusters Answer the Call, Lights Out.
Also, Announcing the Intermagia International Magic Show coming to San Pedro for the first time for two shows on October 10th: 2pm & 7pm at Paradise Theater. Join us for an evening of tumbling & magic like you've never seen! Families and children are welcome at 2pm for $10 per person. Adults, please join us at 7pm for $50 a ticket. We also have a LIMITED amount of $100 reserved seating in the front row, which includes food/drink seat service. Each show will open with an opening tumbling act from The Saints. All proceeds will benefit Rotary Club's Wednesday softball night for San Pedro Kids Club. Buy your tickets at Crazy Canucks Beach Bar, Wayo's Beach Bar or Keller Williams San Pedro Belize Team on Front Street before they sell out! Seating is limited to 300 attendees.

Pan American Day on Monday
So folks, this weekend will be a long one with Monday October 10th being a holiday in lieu of Wednesday, October 12th, PAN AMERICAN DAY. Enjoy and be safe!

Power interruption 7:00am to 1:00pm, Wednesday, October 12, Orange Walk: Tower Hill, Guinea Grass, Santa Martha & Carmelita
BEL to install lightning arresters, replace utility poles & replace manual splices on power distribution system in area.

Belize vs Guatemala Boxing
It's time for the annual Belize vs. Guatemala boxing at the Cayo Welcome Center. It's free, and will be this Saturday, October 8th, at 7:00pm. Go Belize! "Coming this Saturday at the Welcome Center is our Annual Boxing Event. All Are Invited to come out."

Did you know the Institute of Creative Arts - NICH offers a Technical Audio Course?
The four-month certificate program equips graduates for employment with live sound companies, churches, DJ systems, theatres, radio & television, and live bands. Tonight, 11 people will graduate from the program ready for this career track: Congratulations to them all! You can learn more about the program from Mr. Whitfield Welch at the Bliss Center for Performing Arts: 227-2110.

Teachers out in full force at the BNTU's rally in Orange Walk Town!
10 photos, 2 videos

SBDC Workshop: MARKETING FOR SMALL HOTELS
Workshop Date: October 13th, 2016, 9am to 3pm. This workshop aims to provide attendee with the knowledge on: Marketing definition- its importance, the myths of Marketing, Knowing your product, , Identifying and Understand your customer, Strategies and Techniques including Branding, Promotion, monitoring and evaluation - Action Plan. This workshop is intended for hotel owners, managers, staff. LOCATION: San Pedro Town Council, Conference Room, Barrier Reef Drive, San Pedro. COST: BZ75.00 INCLUDES - Lunch and Snacks. To sign up, kindly contact our office 501-223-3195 at or email us at [email protected].

Two FARMERS MARKETS this weekend: SAN PEDRO and PLACENCIA
In addition to our two fabulous FarmHouse Deli FARMERS MARKET THIS WEEKEND, we will also be having two fabulous announcements .. special discounts and a sip of champagne to celebrate it all with. SAN PEDRO Saturday, October 8th .. being held at the MAHOGANY BAY RESORT from 11 am to 2 pm. with our usually exciting array of our Delicioius Deli Specials.. special discounts and pricing starting at 11 am .. PLACENCIA Sunday, October 9th .. Yes, SUNDAY this week .. we will be at the basketball court from 11 am to 2 pm with our usual array of Delicious Deli Specials.. special discounts and pricing start from 11 am .. We have special announcements in both San Pedro and Placencia this weekend so we will be toasting with champagne at 11 am sharp .. and to enjoy all our goodies and special discounts. We hope to see all our Deli friends in San Pedro and Placencia

Letter: Government of Belize announcement regarding the UNCAC
The Belize Progressive Party (BPP) recognises the government of Belize’s announcement of its intent to sign the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC), on 9th December 2016, as being a long overdue determination. Of more significance, we wish to inform Belizeans, not to relax your demands for the all elected officials to adhere to good governance practices and principles, as government’s announcement is but the initial step in a process that requires: ratification by the senate, acceptance, approval and/or accession via the requisite government bodies. Each of these steps are required to ensure that Belize is officially party to the treaty and therefore in full adherence. Therefore, given the extreme cunning demonstrated by the PM, in particular, amid the just pressure that is being brought to bear on his administration, by the BNTU and its partners, Belizeans must not fall victim to what fundamentally amounts to yet another means through which the Barrow administration is seeking to bide its time.

Cayo Urban Bird Watch 2016
The Belize Audubon Society had the 2016 Urban Bird Watch in Benque and Cayo this weekend. "A huge Thank you to Benque Viejo and San Ignacio towns for welcoming us this past weekend for Urban Bird Watch 2016. What an amazing time it was! Benque was a lot of fun we got 63 species for Benque Viejo with the furthest inland record of the Mississipi Kite. In San Ignacio we saw 70 species with highlights such as the Golden- winged Warbler and Gray- cheeked Thrush. Photos courtesy of: Roni Martinez"

Initial lecture of the Perspectives of our Past historical talks delayed
Kindly be advised that the initial lecture of the Perspectives of our Past historical talks scheduled for October 11th has been rescheduled to Tuesday October 25, 2016. Please join us for a scheduled talk on Tuesday October 18th, at CJC beginning at 10 am as we discuss the historic Public Market building which is celebrating its 130 year of existence.

Supporting Belize's response to trafficking in persons
All this week the International Organization for Migration, supported by a USD $500,000 grant from the United States, has been leading a multi-agency "training of trainers" course to support Belize's response to trafficking in persons. Ambassador Moreno spoke at the opening ceremony on Monday. Thanks, IOM for facilitating this great event, and thanks to all our Belizean partners for coming out to participate!

San Pedro Sun 25 Years, House of Culture
We invite you to take a walk down memory lane with us as we celebrate the growth and coverage of San Pedro news over the last 25 years.

Splashers
Morning Ladies to celebrate the new wonderful space we have I am planning a little party today. I will have Free Paint Rippers (in lieu of panty rippers). If anybody would like to paint please come between 11 and 4 as after 5 it will be of a fun athmosphere. Dancing and drinking wine. Bring your own bottle $15 corkage fee I will provide wine glasses and party snacks. We will be open until 9 :)

Pan American Day Celebration in San Pedro:
Central Park, Oct. 8

National Garifuna Council 1st Black, White, and YellowGala
As we continue to preserve, strengthen & develop our unique Garifuna Culture and promote economic development of our Garifuna people, the National Garifuna Council of Belize is hereby requesting your support for the first Black, White & Yellow Gala to raise much needed funds. Come out to enjoy the culinary flavors from Chef Sean Kuylen, listen to Garifuna artists such as Supa G, Lloyd and Adrian D Doc Martinez, enjoy a variety of music from DJ Cool and dance the night away with Wageirale Drummers band as we kick off the November celebrations with a CULTURAL TWIST. Inbox for Ticket locations or contact Sheena Zuniga @ 602-9802, Cynthia Cayetano @ 677-0799, Marsha Mejia @ 605-2270 or Gwen Nunez Gonzalez @ 621-4097. ABAN ISIENI!

Channel 7

Teachers Strike Continues Into Fifth Day
Today, was day 4 of the teachers strike, and demonstrations were held all around the country, as the 10 branches of the Belize National Teachers Union flexed their numbers. It was the union's way of putting numbers in the street, and giving others in the public a chance to show their support by marching along. We'll show you how the demonstrations looked in Belize City, Belmopan, Benque, and Orange Walk, but first to the most important news of the day. The strike will continue tomorrow, and there is a possibility that if the general membership so chooses, it could spill into next week. This afternoon, the President of the Belize District Branch told us that she and the other Branch leadership will seek out their teachers on whether or not they will strike next week:

BNTU Brings Out 675 In City
We had that opportunity to speak with the President of Belize District Branch today at their demonstration and rally. Our news team was out there from start to its finish, and Daniel Ortiz has the story: About 675 teachers from the Belize District Branch and their supporters from the political sphere and regular life paraded through the principal streets of the city, briefly commanding the attention of onlookers as they passed by in their second major demonstration in 2 weeks. They marched for about an hour from the Constitution Park to the BTL Park, for a quick round of presentations from their chosen speakers. At its start, it resembled a lively praise and worship celebration.

Belmopan Teachers Brought Out 300
And in the capital city of Belmopan the teachers and parents assembled at the Belmopan Comprehensive School this morning at 8:30. They moved off from there and walked along the ring road. As you can see in the footage we caught up with them as they passed the Catholic Church. The group was 296 strong. After the protest, they stopped off at the May Gordon Park where several teachers gave speeches. Then they all met at the George Price Center at 2:00 to plan their next step. Again, this decision will be taken to the National Council tomorrow for a national decision.

Benque Wasn't Buff, But Spirited
While the Benque teachers didn't have a huge turn out, they certainly brought a lot of energy. The teachers danced and waved their flags to the Punta version of their union song, "solidarity Foreover". There were just over 100 very enthused educators in the march.

Orange Walk Had Hundreds
And in Orange Walk the teachers were also spirited. They showed up in the hundreds for their procession through the town - where they were joined by the leader of the opposition John Briceno. They were also addressed by PUP Senator Valerie Woods, BPP Leader Patrick Rogers, and Hector Silva.

Bishops Tell Teachers To Go Back To Classroom
And while the teachers made their presence felt countrywide today - the Catholic Bishops, Wright and Glancey sent out a letter this evening saying it's time to go back to school. The letter opens by saying, "we want to reiterate our support for all those pushing the Government of Belize to implement policies and laws to monitor and enforce good governance." But, after that, it takes a turn. It says: "Now that the Prime Minister has expressed a willingness and desire to go back to the negotiating table, we support the appeal for students and teachers to get back to the classroom. The education of our young people is our primary concern. Other means besides strikes can be used to pressure the government for reforms to insure good governance. We call on the BNTU and other unions, other social partners, the opposition and the Government of Belize to work together to see that these reforms are set into law in the coming weeks and months. The commitment of GOB to sign the United Nations Convention Against Corruption on December 9, 2016 is one good sign of movement in this area."

Sudden Murder Saddens Succotz
The serenity in Succotz was shattered by a late evening slaying. 45 year old Luis Camal better known as "Johnny" was shot and killed around 8:00 last night. Camal, his wife and their 15 year old daughter were held up at gun point on the road linking Succotz and Benque. Instead of just taking their belongings, something went terribly wrong and the gunman took Camal's life. Courtney Weatherburne has more. 45 year old Luis Camal would have been among these vendors at the Succutz Ferry selling his wood carvings. Camal has been carving for about 25 years and he inspired his brother and sister To make art pieces of their own. It has become a family tradition. But it will be hard to keep that artistic spirit alive without him. Camal went to Luck's Computer shop yesterday evening to print the designs for his new carvings.

A Dangerous Stretch...
And the Camal's were certainly not the first to be held up at gunpoint on that road. Police admit it is a danger zone because of the poor lighting and the overgrowth along the hilly stretch of road. They constantly patrol the area but Superintendent Daniel Arzu says there is only so much they can do. Supt. Daniel Arzu, OC - Benque Viejo Police: "From our record or statistics will show you that Benque is a low crime rate area. How we come by that? We do proactive policing here and our relationship with our community is very firm. We engage with our community and we establish that bond. So we are a little bit surprise, but at the same token, we managed all our area of responsibility through effective patrolling, be it vehicular patrols or foot patrols and that particular area in deed is of concern to us and we've been patrolling that area effectively. But again, the criminals certainly will not wait for the police to engage or indulge in the criminal activities, they engage in the absence of the police. So it might seem 'look this area is not policed,' but like I said criminals prey over the opportunity and that's what they got and that is what really happens."

Fratricide In Orange Walk
41 year old Orange Walkeno Ruben Cain was killed last night, after he was stabbed to death by his younger brother. It happened yesterday at 3:45 at Cain's residence on Flamboyant Street in the Louisiana Area of Orange Walk. There was an argument between Cain and his brother which ended with the stabbing. By the time police reached the scene, Cain was dead. Cain's brother has been arrested and is expected to be charged tomorrow. The family refused to speak to the media.

No Air Ambulance Yet For Severely Burned Kids
Tonight, burn victims 4 year old Ian Sambula-Carr and 8-year-old Empress Hamilton are in critical condition awaiting an urgent air ambulance flight to Shriner's Children's Hospital. As we've reported the two children received second and third degree burns to 90% of their bodies when their family home on Aloe Vera Street burned down on Tuesday night. Their cousin, 11-year-old Aaron Gabourel perished in the fire. Aaron was a special needs child who attended Stella Maris school and today the Belizean Assembly for Persons with Diverse Abilities sent out a release supporting his mother, Carolyn Hamilton and expressing, quote, "anger, at the injustice and lack of compassion to those marginalized peoples who are most in need." End quote. The group says, quote, "This is a real human disaster and we are responsible to address this and others." The fire department continues to investigate the cause of the fire but so far has not found anything pointing specifically to arson. Still, we are told police have three persons detained for questioning.

Business Senator Speaks On UNCAC
Today Business Senator Mark Lizarraga marched with the Teachers Union against the government, but yesterday his Chamber of Commerce sent out a press release saluting the Government for committing to sign the United Nations Convention Against Corruption on December ninth. The Chamber has no problem with 2-month roadmap, since it will allow the Government time to properly prepare for the commitments which come with it. That's one of the 8 good governance demands that the teachers went on strike for, and from listening to today's speeches, it appears that the teachers aren't satisfied that the Prime Minister will actually sign it. They say that he once promised to appoint the 13th Senator, but then he did not bring that law into effect. Today we asked the Business Senator to comment on the split in sentiments: Hon. Mark Lizarraga - Business Senator: "There was a committee from the chamber set up to work with the government on looking on the road map of the things that we need to accomplish. For example, there are many pieces of legislation that will need to be enacted. So I can understand why we cannot fully commit to that as now but we can commit to the process and I'm not the expert on this so please excuse me, the chamber has been running with this.

Chamber Probing The Probe TOR
We also asked him for his perspective on last week Friday's Senate Meeting, which now ensures that there will be a Senate Committee that will investigate the Special Audit Reports on the Immigration Department. He voted against Church Senator Ashley Rocke's Government friendly motion which allows 2 UDP senators on this Committee. Critics say that the Government should not have this much influence on the tribunal since, it is this government administration which will be investigated for corruption. Today, Lizarraga told us that the business community is currently in consultations about the aspects of the Ashley Rocke motion which they do not agree with: Hon. Mark Lizarraga - Business Senator: "The chamber has decided to poll its members. As a matter of fact as we speak the chamber is in the process of getting survey feedback from its membership as to what our positions will be on that. Yes the committee was formed and yes the committee was formed with 6 members and we have supported consistently a committee with 5 members. that is not to say that the prime minister cannot say 'I'm only appointing 1 instead of 2', that is still a possibility but at this time the business community has not arrived at a final decision as to what his actions are going forward. As far as the calling of the committee to meet, appoint a chair and to finalize its terms etc. I have not been informed as yet from the national assembly that such a meeting has been called."

Sayonara Sarstoon S.I. Challenge
So much has been happening news-wise in 2016, that you might have to strain your memory to recall the "Sarstoon S-I." It was put out back in April of this year when Government wanted to shut down the Sarstoon so that no one could go in there and threaten the fragile relations which prevailed at the time. The S-I said that no one could enter the Sarstoon for a month. But, things still ended up going south with Guatemala, and the SI was cancelled before even a month had passed. But the PUP still challenged it in court, on the basis that it restricted citizens' constitutional right to freedom of movement - and that the government had no authority to enact such a law. Well, six months later, the Supreme Court struck out the PUP challenge, saying that it's now an academic matter since the law was revoked. The PUP's legal advisor Andrew Marshalleck was circumspect about the outcome:...

Herrera On Trial For Zeke's Murder
Charles "Bundy" Herrera is on trial for killing Ezekiel Medina in May of 2014. But the case has been going through a trial within a trial to determine whether a confession statement given by Herrera is admissible. Herrera took the witness stand and testified that the reason he gave the statement was because he thought that the DPP would not have charged him with murder. The grounds on which the caution statement was not admitted as evidence was that Herrera was taken to the police station at 7 in the morning and up until the time he gave the statement, which was about 12:45 p.m., he had not been fed or given any kind of refreshment. Justice Gonzalez was of the view that based on case law, this denial would have sapped the free will of Herrera, making the statement in admissible.

Cops For Human Traffic
Two Orange Walk police officers might be involved in a human trafficking ring. One Corporal of Police and a Police Constable have been detained in connection with human trafficking charges. The full details of the case have not been released as yet but we do know that the Professional Standards Branch in Belmopan is handling it. The Corporal of Police who is detained has a record, he has been disciplined before for misconduct. We will keep following this story.

The Fire Last Time
This week, the nation has faced a teacher's strike, and we've also seen bonfire on bridges in Belize City and the Hummingbird Highway. That of course, evokes memories the troubles of 2005 when teachers struck for 10 school days between January 24 and February 7, and then in April of 2005, there was the famous bonfire on the Belcan Bridge, which then led to looting in downtown Belize City. The social ferment at that time was far different than it is in 2016: there was much more agitation and discontent, and many more issues leading to national utility outages - most memorably a complete collapse of the phone system blocking out Belize form the world. So when the bonfire was lit on the Belcan Bridge on the night of April 21, 2005, it came organically out of a movement, and a sentiment that had been building for months. And what caused the scales to tip in the favour of anarchy that evening is probably nothing more than poor police management of a rebellious crowd - which started with students. We look back briefly at the event of that evening:..

Micro Science Makes Major Move
The sciences are ever growing and competitive fields that are important for the growth and development of a country. Teaching our students the right materials, and instilling an appreciation for science is important to the advancement of science. That's why the UNESCO Global Micro-Science Project came to Belize. The project's goal is to give our educators a new way to engage their students in the sciences, and give them to skills to further their studies. We spoke to the people involved with the project about how it benefits Belize... Orlando Medina, Science Curriculum Officer at Ministry of Education: "Today we have teachers from high schools country wide, we have representation from all the districts. They're getting familiar with what we call a micro science tool that they can use for the science, biology, chemistry, physics and integrates science. Basically it is like a laboratory that's in the form of a small kit. They have experiments that they are conducting using these little kits and then they are getting their results. We're just familiarizing them with it because it is a tool that they will be using in their classes, the kits."

Calling all Soundboys
For the last four months, eleven Belizeans participated in NICH's Technical Audio Course. Today, they graduated with certificates proving that they have the skill needed to work audio in the radio and television industries, theatres, churches, and even for live performances and DJs. We spoke to the man who taught these new sound engineers everything they know. So far, 25, people have graduated from the program. Everyone, not matter their age or experience level, is encouraged to take the classes. The program promises to provide students with the skills needed to do audio in the right way.

The Bust At Benque Bus Station
The Benque terminal has been closed down. While it certainly won't stop buses from coming in nor commuters from getting the bus, it will cause a major inconvenience with buses now having to park on the side of the road to off load and onload passengers. Also, the commuters will now have to stand in the sun and rain waiting for the bus. Now according to the terminal operator Thomas Shaw, all this could have been avoided if the bus companies would have paid their $3.00 a day fee to use the terminal. Shaw told us he took up operations at the terminal in March of this year. But it has been a lot of drama getting the bus companies to pay up. Shaw says one bus company owes him about $3,000. So he gave up and closed down the terminal on Friday the 7th. Shaw says he did the best he could for the comfort of the commuters and even tried to accommodate the bus companies by only charging $2.00 per day. But nothing worked so he says it is now up to the Mayor to address this terminal issue.

After Earl
It's been two months since Hurricane Earl hit Belize, and many storm affected persons are still recovering. NEMO and Minister of State, Edmond Castro, have been working to provide homes for victims of the hurricane whose homes were damaged beyond repair. So far, 60 of the planned 180 houses have been built, 80 roofs have been repaired, and 1400 victims have been given necessary supplies. Construction of all 180 houses is expected to be completed by early December.

Channel 5

B.N.T.U. Holds Countrywide Marches; Belize City Leads the Way
The Belize National Teachers’ Union led its members in mass demonstrations countrywide today, on this, the fourth day of a called strike. The union isn’t letting up as it continues [...]

Teachers’ Industrial Action Continues Into Fifth Day
After a momentous four days, the Belize National Teachers’ Union is trying to catch its breath and decide on a way forward. What we know for sure tonight is that [...]

Union Expresses Concerns About Extent of Finances to Continue Strike
As we mentioned earlier, the Belize National Teachers’ Union does have financial concerns, though there have been efforts made to raise donations in the community. The Union has a strike [...]

Will Papal Nuncio’s Declaration Sway Teachers to Return to School?
An example of the kind of pressure the teachers are facing beyond finances is the recent visit of Apostolic Nuncio to Belize and El Salvador, Archbishop Most Reverend Leon Kalenga. [...]

Roman Catholic Church Now Urges Teachers to Return to Classroom
Late this evening, the Roman Catholic Church stepped in line with the message from the Papal Nuncio. The Church says that they support the appeal for students and teachers to [...]

Opposition Leader Says Nuncio Should Have Consulted with B.N.T.U.
Roman Catholic Archbishop to Belize Leon Kalenga as we said has called on the Roman Catholic teachers to go back to the classroom. He urged that the B.N.T.U. and the [...]

Cordel Hyde Says Teachers Want Communication with Government
People’s United Party area representative for Lake Independence, Cordel Hyde, was one of several prominent politicians of the blue party to march in green with the teachers today. He is [...]

Orange Walk B.N.T.U. Draws Major Crowd for March and Rally
“We shall not moved” – that’s what teachers were chanting in the streets of Orange Walk Town today. Hundreds donning their signature green Tees congregated in the Queen Elizabeth Central [...]

Belmopan Teachers Out in Droves As Well
The teachers of the Belmopan Branch took to the streets, like their counterparts countrywide, this morning in the center of the capital city. They lined up at the Belmopan Comprehensive [...]

Brother to be Charged with Brother’s Murder in Orange Walk
A man was killed by his brother in Orange Walk on Wednesday evening. Forty-one year old Ruben Cain, a labourer of Flamboyant Street, was stabbed in the chest by his [...]

Police Hunt Persons Who Killed a Father in Front of His Family in Benque
There was another vicious murder that occurred overnight. A forty-five year old woodcarver was gunned down in bizarre circumstances in front of his wife and teenage daughter in his native [...]

Still No Decision by Chamber of Commerce on Support for Teachers
The strike by teachers continues in the headlines tonight, but for how long will the industrial action be sustained? One powerful organization that has not come out clearly in support [...]

Teachers’ Union Calls for Continued Community Support
But does the majority of Belizeans support the B.N.T.U.’s actions? That is a question more difficult to answer than to ask. There has been sustained pressure on teachers to return [...]

Cañero Leader Alfredo Ortega Rallies for Teachers
Earlier in the news we told you about the B.N.T.U. march that brought out hundreds in Orange Walk Town. Politicians, activists and other public figures joined the teachers today, including [...]

COLA’s Geovannie Brackett Appears in Orange Walk March
And if you missed the leader of COLA in the Belize City rally, it’s because he was in attendance at the Orange Walk parade. Geovannie Brackett said he was asked [...]

DYS Rep Speaks Out Against G.O.B.
The teachers were certainly fired up at this morning’s Belize City rally; and so was Shawn Saldano. If his name sounds familiar, it is because you probably know him from [...]

Education Minister Calls Fellow Minister’s Comment “Unfortunate”
Foreign Minister Wilfred has expressed strong sentiments about the teachers saying it was not in their remit to take on national issues. But that statement is not shared by all [...]

Luke Palacio Attacks Foreign Minister’s Comments
Not surprisingly, Elrington’s comments also struck a chord with the teachers. B.N.T.U. President Luke Palacio responded on Tuesday to the Minister’s commentary. Luke Palacio, National President, B.N.T.U. “In relation to [...]

Curiosity Kills “Sticks” – Now Charged with Belcan Bonfire
On Wednesday afternoon, six persons were hauled to the Belize City Magistrate Court – charged in connection with the burning of tires on BelCan Bridge on Monday afternoon. COLA President [...]

Chief Justice Drops Claim over Sarstoon S.I.
Today, Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin struck out the constitutional challenge brought by the People’s United Party of the Sarstoon Law. The statutory instrument, which was passed by the Government, prohibited [...]

Is Sarstoon Challenge Now Over?
Back in May of 2016, PM Barrow in an interview with News Five said that, “the S.I. was to serve the limited purpose of ensuring that at the time the [...]

ICA Closes Audio Technicians’ Course
For the second year in a row, an audio technician course was held at by the Institute of Creative Arts organized by Audio and Sound Technician Whitfield Welch. The program [...]

Healthy Living visits the Mental Health Welcome Resource Center
October tenth is celebrated globally as World Mental Health Day. Belize has come a long way in recognizing the mental health needs of our society. But we continue to fight [...]

The Guardian

Papal Messenger urges Catholic teachers to go back to the classroom
The Catholic Archbishop, Léon Kalenga Badikebele, visited Belize on Wednesday, October 5, and he paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Dean Barrow. He is the Apostolic Nuncio of Belize and El Salvador, and is a diplomat of the Holy See, the Catholic Church’s highest decision making body in the world, and he acts as the Pope’s Ambassador to Central America. While he was in Belize, he spoke to the local press about a number of pressing issues, including the failing health of Bishop Dorrick Wright, and the fact that thousands of Catholic school children are out of classes because of a strike organized by the Belize National Teachers Union. When he was asked about his thoughts on the strike, he told the media that as a leader in the church, his first priority is to the children. They should be in the schools, not being punished by their teachers who are making demands of their Government. He said, “I have to look after the children….I don’t know what is the position in the matter, but I prefer children to be at school. That is the future of our country. If we are playing around with our children, we are killing them...

11 year old dies in fire
11 year-old Aaron Gabourel, a disabled child, passed away after being burnt alive when his family’s Belize City house went up in flames. His father, 34 year-old Winston Gabourel Sr., his other family members, 4 year-old Ian Carr, and 8 year-old Empress Hamilton, are hospitalized for burn injuries. Ian Carr and Empress Hamilton are suffering from 90-95% burn injuries all over their body, and to save their lives, they will have to be flown abroad. It is believed that an arsonist set the fire which caused all this destruction. The entire family, which included the 4 burn victims along with 42 year-old Caroline Hamilton, 30 year-old Melissa Hamilton, and 11 year-old Jeremiah Hamilton, were all inside their home on #7 Aloe Vera Street. They reported to police that they saw a man who ran into the house, poured some sort of accelerant on the floor. He lit it on fire, and escaped in a boat, since their home is very near to the river.

Social Partners have majority on Senate Special Select Committee
The Prime Minister promised the Belizean people that there would be a Senate inquiry to review the Auditor General’s reports on the Immigration Department. That promise was fulfilled at the Senate Meeting on Friday, September 30. On the order of business for that sitting, there were two motions proposed which were to be moved, one from Church Senator Ashley Rocke, and the other by PUP Senator Eamon Courtenay. Senator Rocke’s motion was allowed to be tabled, and he presented a motion from the church that the Senate Select Committee be appointed to look into the findings of the Auditor General. Following through with the Barrow Government’s Commitment to make this a reality, the 6 UDP Senators supported this motion, and so it is certain that Senate hearings will take place. Senator Rocke moved the motion in which Churches made the recommendation that the Committee’s membership should reflect the current balance within the Senate. His motion, which was passed, now mandates, “That the Committee be appointed consisting of six Senators…

SSM
I understand that the Southside Masqueraders won the carnival competition this year, even though they were short of five of their star performers on center stage. I will explain shortly who failed to show up for practice for the SS Masqueraders. On PUPS TV last week, Belize’s most renowned and foul-mouthed demagogue, LuisWade, looked directly into the camera and asked UDP supporters to rally behind the teachers. Let me state my feelings on this patronizing statement; before I will ever support the PUP teacher’s union, I better support Johnny Briceño since the latter is not faking to be a PUP—he shouts it out loud and clear. Why would I support a PUP like Luke Palacio who is a PUP masquerading as a trade unionist? Why would I support a PUP talk show host like Wade who is masquerading as a pastor? Why would I support Elena Alcala from Corozal who is a PUP branch chairman of the BNTU masquerading as a union leader?

Control your outcome
Youths literally control the future of the country and, most importantly, the future of their lives. Everything that we do today is likely to have a direct impact on the future, whether that impact be positive or negative. So why not do something worthwhile? Why not make sure the effects are positive? It’s always easier said than done but it is possible. One aspect of life to strategically consider that has quite possibly the most resounding impact on our future stability, comfort, and standard of livings is to carefully evaluate the “right career”. The “right career” isn’t the career that necessarily pays the most or the one with the most luxuries associated with it. There is no way that the country of Belize, or anywhere for that matter, could survive with an influx of only doctors into the working world, or only lawyers, engineers, care givers, farmers, teachers, hospitality providers or any one single field of work. There needs to be a balance between all the necessary careers for the country to thrive in its productivity. So, then, it is necessary for each youth to assess his or her strengths and weaknesses, especially as it pertains to the education he or she will be subjected to.

WORDS OF LIFE with Barry Fraser
When I was twenty years old, I went back to school, after working for four years at an aluminum research facility. What changed my career path was meeting a dear retired farmer, who had moved into our village and attended our church. Mrs. Ward asked me if I would help her with her Sunday School Class of Primary School children. I thought that I would just be helping her set out the tables and chairs, and making sure the children had their books, pencils, and crayons, and then tidying up afterwards. But Mrs. Ward got me to teach! From then I was hooked on teaching. After assisting her for two interesting years, I went to a church-run teacher training facility for three years of full-time education. People join the teaching profession for various reasons. For some it is a job, for many a career, but for others it is a vocation. All teachers have a part to play in the raising up of the next generation, but it is now time to show that we value our teachers.

BNTU keeps moving and changing the goal post
Today marks 4 days that some teachers have been absent from their classrooms at the behest of the executive of their union , the BNTU . The executive of the union appears to be working for and on behalf of the People’s United Party . What we have noticed about the BNTU leadership is the uncanny ability they have in moving the goalposts in order to suit their needs. At first when they engaged government, it was about their 3% raise which was the third tranche of a three year salary increase they along with all government workers had negotiated for with government. Then as soon as the Special Audit Report was released and the PUP got embolden to enter the fray the BNTU changed and the chant then was “it is not only about the 3.” (3%). That soon changed a few weeks ago after they had a demonstration in Belmopan, where some teachers carried a huge banner that suggested that it was all about the 3%. The 3 was completely taken off the table unbeknown to the teachers, by their president and his executive. It seems as if though President Luke has taken off his GREEN BNTU shirt and put on a BLUE PUP shirt. He is now a full time PUP and a PART-TIME BNTU President. This is the way he and the major players in the BNTU have been running the BNTU as if though it is an extension of the PUP. We had to search the PUP Constitution to see if the BNTU is in there as a Standing Committee of that party.

Catholic Archbishop Kalenga meets PM Barrow, calls for BNTU to return to negotiating table
Prime Minister Right Honorable Dean Barrow met with Archbishop Leon Kalenga, Papal Nuncio to Belize, this morning at the Prime Minister’s Belize City office. Among other matters, the Prime Minister and the Vatican’s Emissary discussed the current Belize National Teachers’ Union strike, and the fact that so many Roman Catholic schools are among those closed by the strike. Archbishop Kalenga, as Representative of the Holy See, made clear that the interests of the children are paramount and that those interests require schools to be open and children and teachers to be in their classrooms. The Archbishop therefore called for the BNTU to return to the negotiating table with Government and for teachers to return to school. Children should not be punished, the Archbishop said, and issues between the BNTU and Government needed to be worked out through dialogue and not school closure. Prime Minister Barrow welcomed the Archbishop’s, and therefore the Catholic Church’s, position, and repeated Government’s own call for the BNTU to suspend its strike and resume the discussions with GOB on the 3% salary adjustment and the good governance agenda.

What makes the 13th Senator so bogus?
Currently, Belize’s Senate has twelve senators, six appointed on advice of the Government, three on the advice of the Opposition and one each on advice of the Churches, Business community and the unions. There has been much talk of adding a thirteenth senator who would be appointed by the NGOs. In fact this talk led to a constitutional amendment to modify the composition of the senate and make the appointment of this thirteenth senator possible. All that remains to be done is for the necessary order to be signed for enabling the law to come into effect. However, wiser heads prevailed and on reflection, it was realized that the appointment of this thirteenth senator would not provide the so called desired “check and balance” but would basically create deadlock in the operations of government. You see by the simple stroke of a pen, to allow the law for the appointment of the thirteenth senator to take effect, the constitutionally elected majority would then become a minority in the Senate. Some would argue that is not a problem as such because in the Senate, there is more mature debate and the social partners generally consider the merits of the legislation being proposed and do not necessarily oppose just for opposing sake.

BNTU bat for Mose, PUP, COLA, BPP, VIP… but not for the students and not for Belize
The big thieves PUP are broke and very hungry! They cannot wait to get their greedy paws on the PEOPLES’ money. In desperation, they clutch at every straw, every shadow! Recently they have lost every election, so they are looking to others to return them to power. Big dummy Luke Palacio, a rejected PUP candidate, feels that he can rescue the PUP, and redeem himself. It is well known that Luke Palacio ran on a PUP slate and lost; Luke’s agenda is of a partisan political nature. It is also well known that now Mrs. Edgar Flowers’ first child was fathered by Mose. Kremandala has declared that it is 100% behind Cordel, a PUP official! It is also well known that Mose addressed the BNTU two weeks ago! Whenever I see Luke, Mose and Mrs. Edgar Flowers together on the WUB Morning Show, all in green shirts; I realize that I am actually watching a PUP move; engineered by Krem. I wondered why the three were not in fact wearing blue and white. They throw stones, but hide their hands! It is an extremely smart move to have Luke and Mrs. Edgar Flowers front the play, bring on board the BNTU and then the teachers; smart but nefarious! Nefarious, because nothing is more corrupt than the Criminal Gang!

Belizean students in top Taiwan medical university
The future of Belize is in great hands! There are young men and women accessing advanced level education all over the world and many of them are excelling in their field of study. Medical students from Belize usually pursue their degree in Cuba, Guatemala, Mexico or the United States. However, thanks to a new program at I-Shou University launched in 2013, Belizean students can now pursue their medical degree and certification at one of the top universities and teaching hospitals in the world. Paul Morgan Jr. and Javier Alpuche are the first two Belizeans to take advantage of this program. It is called the School of Medicine for International Students. The school opened its doors to 40 students for the first time in September of 2013 and everything in the facility is brand new- from the door knobs to the high powered microscopes. The curriculum is taught in English and is designed to focus specifically on challenges doctors face in the ally countries. Individuals from most of Taiwan’s ally countries have taken advantage of the opportunity since it was made available in 2013 but no Belizeans did so until Morgan and Alpuche this year.

CCJ splits payment due to Ascroft for BTL down the middle
After trying its best to ensure that Lord Michael Ashcroft honors the verbal terms he had agreed to, the Barrow Government will respect the ruling of the Caribbean Court of Justice. The country will have to find 67 million US dollars more to pay the Ashcroft Alliance for the BTL settlement. Also, Lord Ashcroft will get 50% of 500 million dollar settlement, which is 10% more than he agreed to verbally. The court arrived at that ruling after analyzing the written contract that the Prime Minister signed on behalf of the Country when the 2015 Telemedia Acquisitions Settlement Act was passed into law. The CCJ judges, in their reasoning, say that the Government must honor the natural meaning of the written terms. They were critical of the attorneys who drafted the settlement deed, commenting that a judge should “avoid rewriting it in an attempt to assist an unwise party, or to penalize an astute party”.

Chancing the Ghetto Youth
Dianne Finnegan, Director of the Youth Apprenticeship Programme, has been terribly upset since the moment word came that three members of the programme had been arrested and charged for setting tires on fire at the middle of Belcan Bridge on Monday, October 3. Adrian Avaloy, 23, Clayburn Pascascio and a minor were arrested and charged on Tuesday for setting a bonfire. They were taken to court on Wednesday, October 5, to be arraigned for those charges. However, Mrs. Finnegan went to court and expressed her frustration at the individuals she accuses of leading the youth astray with financial incentives, COLA’s Geovanni Brackett and community organizer Perry Smith. “THIS IS A POLITICAL AGENDA and THOSE MEDIA HOUSES should now RAISE NOISE and call out THOSE INVOLVED who paid 3 of my youth to carry out THEIR POLITICAL AGENDA,” posted Finnegan on her Facebook page. Brackett and Smith may have been the subject of Mrs. Finnegan’s anger on Wednesday but her charge is not squared solely on them.

CJ says Evangelical Association not an interested party in Section 53 case
The National Evangelical Association of Belize, not the legally recognized Association of Evangelical Churches of Belize, applied for permission to be listed as interested parties in the appeal of the Section 53 ruling by Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin. The association was represented in court on Tuesday, October 4, by Anthony Sylvestre. Unfortunately for the spirited group, the Chief Justice did not even entertain the application. Chief Justice Benjamin rejected the application because the association was not an interested party in the case being appealed; therefore, they can not be allowed to now make submissions in front of the Court of Appeals. Anthony Sylvestre tried to scramble and get the assistance of a much more capable attorney, Dickie Bradley, to make presentations to the court. However, the Chief Justice had already made up his mind and informed Sylvestre that no time will be granted for him to consult with Bradley. There was nothing Sylvestre could present in law that would convince the Chief Justice to allow the association in on the appeal.

GOB sets date to sign UN Convention against Corruption
Cabinet agreed today to accept the recommendation of the Government/ Belize Chamber of Commerce & Industry Working Group on the Implementation of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) to sign the UNCAC on December 9, 2016, which is the International Day Against Corruption. By that date, the joint GOB/BCCI Working Group fully expects to have determined the scope of the necessary measures, including legislative and administrative measures, to ensure the proper implementation of Belize’s obligations under the Convention after signing.

No more Days of Biting
Perry “Sticks” Smith has been arrested and charged for his alleged role in setting tires on fire on the Belcan Bridge on Monday, October 3. Sticks was charged along with COLA President, Geovanni Brackett, and two others for starting the blaze that impeded the flow of traffic during rush hour and compromised the structure of a major bridge in the population capital. Brackett’s involvement in this blaze came as a shock to no one. However, Smith is an individual who passes himself off as a man of peace. Over the last couple of years he has organized community events across the city in gang controlled neighbourhoods to provide spiritual relief for residents of those oppressed areas. He calls the events “Days of Healing” and publicly advocates for peace in the city. However, peace was the last thing on his mind during the teachers’ strike on Monday.

New Destination Belize Magazine takes readers on memorable adventures
Perhaps even more than people interested in visiting the jewel, Belizeans need to get a copy of the new and improved Destination Belize magazine. Just spend a few minutes in the text and you will be packing your bags – ready for an adventure. My favourite piece in the magazine was written by Gonzalo Pleitez entitled “Journey through the underworld”. Pleitez writes about the Aktun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) caves in the Cayo District and its significance to the Mayas for whom the caves represented an entrance to the underworld, a place of evil and death. In his description of the landscape of Belize and the physical make up of the system, Pleitez writes, “the landscape of Belize was formed leaving features resembling chunks of Swiss cheese- with holes piercing throughout the land.” Pleitez chronicled how the caves went from a place where no Maya would venture to one where they would gather to make offerings to malevolent gods. He also gave a very valid reason as to why this intriguing system remained almost untouched even in the modern world: “As Belizeans we boast about our caves, but we ‘fraid fi duende.” This is a joke thrown into the piece but many of our ancestors were truly deadly afraid of Duende and other legends that lurk in areas such as the jungle and underground caves.

Corozal Free Zone signs contract for infrastructure works
On Friday, September 30, 2016 the Corozal Free Zone signed a contract to invest $2.5 million in infrastructure works. The project was designed by Young’s Engineering Consultancy Ltd. It includes the installation of storm water drain, sidewalks, parking areas, roundabout, pedestrian ramps; complete resurfacing with hotmix of the main thoroughfare known as “Freedom Avenue”, traffic signs and traffic markings. It also includes drains to alleviate the water that settles in front of the Las Vegas Hotel and Casino. The project was awarded to Belize Roadway Construction Limited of Belmopan City after successful bidding. Young’s Engineering Consultancy Ltd. has also been contracted as the supervising company for quality assurance. Funding for the project was secured through a Bond raised by private and institutional investors, the administration of the Corozal Free Zone, and the Government of Belize. The works are estimated to be completed in six months.

Goldson House in Belmopan holds open days
Belize’s National Hero, Phillip Stanley Wilberforce Goldson is once again being remembered for his good work for the Belizean people. The Goldson House for Democracy and Patriotism, which is located at number 82 Orange Street in Belmopan, held an open day on Monday and Tuesday of this week in honoring this great hero. Kendra Griffith, House coordinator of the Goldson House is inviting schools and members of the public to learn more about Belize’s pioneer in the social, economic and political spheres. Opened on September 28, 2015, the Goldson House is also celebrating its one year anniversary. Operated by the Institute for Social and Cultural Research, within the National Institute of Culture and History, the Goldson House is open daily from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm and contact can be made with them at 822-2613.

Talk on human rights made in Santa Elena, Cayo
The President of the Human Rights Commission of Belize HRCB met with residents of Santa Elena in the Cayo District on Wednesday of last week at the Santa Elena Baptist Church at the corner of Carillo Puerto Avenue and George Price Avenue. Attorney-at-Law, Leo Bradely Junior met briefly to sensitize residents on what the HRCB is doing to enhance their human rights. According to Leo Bradley the HRCB has been conducting human rights training with police and prisoners and would like to expand the training to immigration officers. He said that HRCB was a voluntary, nongovernmental, non partisan organization. As part of the day’s activities, Leo Bradley distributed two documents, the first being on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the other on the new criminal guidelines for interviewing and treatment of persons in police detention.

Minister of State for NEMO Hon. Edmond Castro assesses progress of Hurricane Earl recovery & rebuilding efforts in rural Belize District
Minister of State for National Emergency Management Hon. Edmond Castro has met with National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) co-ordinators in Rural Belize District to assess the progress of the recovery and rebuilding efforts for victims of Hurricane Earl, which made landfall in Belize exactly two months ago on August 4, 2016. The rebuilding efforts have included construction of homes and assistance with material for needed repairs such as lumber and zinc. In the Belize District, material has been distributed from the NEMO Office and Warehouse on the Phillip Goldson Highway near the Burrell Boom Junction, with loading, transportation and offloading assistance by the Belize Defence Force.

Brackett condemns himself
On Monday morning as the members of the BNTU Executives were making an appearance on Krem’s Radio/TV WUB Morning Talkshow, four police officers were seen outside the Kremandala’s compound . These officers had been dispatched to that location by the Belize City Eastern Division South-side Commander Assistant Commissioner Chester Williams. According to Williams, he had deployed the unit there along with Mobil patrols in the area as a part of a security detail to protect the BNTU who were set to embark on strike action to be able to carry out their plan of action, without interference from persons who may not agree with their actions and to prevent outsiders who may want to take advantage of the situation and embark on a criminal path under the guise of saying they were supporting the BNTU in their strike action.

A little truth serum anyone?
It would appear that last Sunday, before showing up for the KremSunday Review talkshow with YaYa Marin, Bill Lindo had a small drink of some truth serum because he finally began to make some sense and spoke quite a bit of truth for a change. Bill began his confessions by describing the Rt. Hon. Manuel Esquivel as a good and honest man. Bill explained that the problems Mr. Esquivel faced in the 1993 – 1998 term were principally because people did not want to accept the truth of what Mr. Esquivel was saying – that we were living well beyond our means and that we could not continue to credibly sustain an economy where we import so much more than we export. As a result, the voters eventually rejected the type of austerity that had to be imposed on the economy. Bill further confessed that what really sunk the UDP and Mr. Esquivel in the 1998 election is that big business interests’ money, principally from the Ashcroft Alliance and Bowen, flocked to the PUP. It will be recalled that both Michael Ashcroft and Barry Bowen were both knighted by the PUP not too long after that election victory and Sir Barry even got a senatorship.

Who set the fire on Belcan?
Geovannie Brackett, one of the chief mischief makers within COLA, had to hand himself into police for questioning. He and 4 others are suspected of cooking up that childish plot to burn tires on the Belcan Bridge. That happened at around at around 4 p.m. on Monday, October 3. That was the first day of the teachers strike when the leadership was gathered at the BNTU branch office in Belize City. Some individuals organized themselves to quickly assemble a pile of tires on the Bridge. They were then set on fire, and those conspirators then fled the area while the commotion forced a shutdown of the bridge during the evening rush hour traffic. The Cleghorn Street Fire station was only a few minutes away, and when the firefighters saw the rising black smoke, they sprang into action. With the help of the police who kept the public away, the fire was put out in only a few minutes. The police also detained Belize City residents Fitz Howard and Perry Smith, and they were taken in for questioning.

Copper Bank fisherman charged for out of season conch
A Copper Bank Fisherman, Benigno Lorenzo Cobb, 37, is out on bail after he was arraigned for being in possession of 314 conch during the closed season. Fisheries Officer Hampton Gamboa busted Cobb with the harvest on Friday, September 30, just Southeast of Northern Caye on the Lighthouse Reef Atoll. Cobb was arraigned before Magistrate Carlon Mendoza on Tuesday, October 4, where he was read a single charge of possession of conch during the closed season. The closed season is July 1 to September 30. Cobb was caught on the last day; presumably trying to get a jump on the market. In court, he was unrepresented and pleaded not guilty to the charge. He is challenging the Fisheries Department to prove its case in a trial against him. The case is being prosecuted by Calman Hall. Since he pleaded not guilty, Magistrate Mendoza offered bail in the sum of $3,500 plus one surety of the same amount. The case was adjourned for November 25, 2016.

Interdicted cop’s trial date set
Interdicted police officer, Urbie Alamilla, 35, has received full disclosure for a charge of discharging a firearm in public and will be tried in front of Magistrate Carlon Mendoza on December 2, 2016. Police Constable Urbie Alamilla is facing a charge of discharging a firearm in public. According to police reports, they responded to a shot fired at Green Jade Restaurant in Ladyville at about 10:52 p.m. on Saturday, June 18. Upon their arrival, officers observed a 9 mm expended shell on the floor of the restaurant. They were approached by Sharmaine Bainton who informed them that PC Alamilla was drunk and just fired his firearm inside the restaurant. Police say they were also met by Ashley Haylock of Burrell Boom Village who informed them that he had an altercation with a fellow he knows as “Borland” and Alamilla drew a gun, fired a shot towards the floor and left the establishment.

Parents charged for teenager breaking curfew
Stephanie Ortiz, 31, and her common-law husband Solomon Francis Alvarez, 47, were taken to court on Monday, October 3, for “allowing a child to be unsupervised”. The 14-year-old child was found hanging out at around 10:40 p.m. on Glen Street in Belize City. As a result of the child being found on the streets without a parent or guardian, the mother and step-father were detained and charged. According to Alvarez, who sells newspapers to earn a living, the child is his step-son and does not live with him and his common-law-wife. Ortiz told the court that her son is living with her mother. Both questioned why it is that they were charged for the offense when the child is not even living with them. While Magistrate Ford agreed with their position to a degree, she also informed them that though the child is living with his grandmother they are still legally responsible for him. Ortiz and Alvarez told the court that the boy has an uncontrollable behaviour and that he does not listen to them when they speak.

Jesse Mejia arraigned for attempted murder
Jesse Mejia, 21, has been wanted by Ladyville police since a chopping incident in the village on September 10 and he is finally in custody. On Monday, October 3, he appeared before Magistrate Aretha Ford where five charges were read against him: attempted murder, dangerous harm, use of deadly means of harm, wounding and aggravated assault with a machete. Police reports are that Mejia got into an altercation with Frank Robert Tejeda and his brother Leroy Tejada on Saturday morning, September 10, 2016. According to reports, during the dispute Mejia pulled out a machete and chopped the two brothers on their hands and face. The brothers were rushed to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital where they underwent treatment for their injuries and were listed in a stable condition.

Felipe Montejo cleared of molestation charge
Well-known Belizean tailor, Felipe Montejo, 66, is a free man after the father of the child who accused him of sexual molestation informed Chief Magistrate Anne Marie Smith that they want no further court action. On Wednesday, November 11, 2015, Montejo was taken to the Belize City Magistrate’s Court to answer to a single charge of sexual assault upon the 14-year-old girl. The child alleged that sometime in the month of August 2015, between 3 and 4 p.m., she visited Golden Scissors Tailor Shop to get help to do her homework and while inside his shop Montejo unbuttoned her school uniform and touched her on her private parts. Montejo at the age of 66 was lucky to have been granted bail. Normally, someone accused of such an act is denied bail and remanded at the Belize Central Prison. Montejo was granted bail of $2,500 and was set to be tried on Friday, September 30.

Bradley Paumen allowed to leave the country
Bradley Paumen is the Belizean American who has been in the news for allegedly putting a hit on Michael Moderi’s life after a land dispute. He and three others: mechanic Lisburn Anderson; Belmopan businessman Jahan Abadi, and Korean American Hyang Choing Park have been charged by Belmopan police with the offences of the perversion of justice and conspiracy to pervert justice. All four are accused of trying to plant a .22 rifle and 150 live rounds of ammunition in Michael Modiri’s vehicle in April 2015. Hyang Choing Park, is former common-law wife of Michael Modiri, and police are accusing her of being involved in the plot to set up her ex. Park was charged for hiring policeman Solomon Mas to act as her hitman. Abadi is accused of facilitating a key to get into Modiri’s vehicle so that the weapon and ammunition could be planted. They were initially arraigned on these charges on Thursday, January 28, in the Belmopan Magistrate’s Court. Paumen was first to be arraigned and represented by Senior Counsel Ellis Arnold before Justice Antoinette Moore on Thursday, January 14. Paumen is facing charges of abetment to commit murder and the Director of Public Prosecutions raised strong objections to bail. Cheryl-Lynn Vidal argued passionately that Paumen should be remanded because he is a flight risk.

Two charged for stolen vehicle that contained a licensed gun
A vehicle belonging to Ricardo Gongora was stolen with his licensed 9 mm pistol inside and two Belize City residents have been charged for the act. Dion Brandon Bennett, 35, aka “Buzzu” of the Ghost Town Crips was arraigned jointly with Denise Stewart, 24, for taking Gongora’s Ford F-150 without authority. Bennett alone was charged for the offense of theft for the gun and other items inside Gongora’s vehicle. The duo appeared before Magistrate Aretha Ford on Monday, October 3, where Stewart asked if she could plead guilty to taking a conveyance without authority and be imposed a fine since it is her first offense. Magistrate Ford explained that the offense carries a custodial sentence of up to three years imprisonment. The mother of six children, three girls and three boys, was not prepared to leave her children and entered a not guilty plea.

Teacher arraigned for aggravated assault of a police officer
Sometime between 12 noon and 1 p.m. on Friday, September 30, a mother and Gwen Lizarraga High School teacher, Gladys Paredez, 41, lost control of her temper and tried to attack someone at the Belize Family Court. However, police officers intervened and the teacher was restrained by four officers. The first officer to try and restrain the teacher was PC #498 Dominique Hutchinson. Officer Hutchinson received several scratches on his left hand during the incident and as a result Paredez was charged with aggravated assault and harm. Instead of being on the picket line with other teachers on Monday, October 3, Paredez was in the courtroom of Magistrate Aretha Ford. In court, Teacher Paredez was unrepresented and when asked how she pleaded she said, “Could be both, that depends… if he had not assaulted me first, I would not have assaulted him.” With those words, Magistrate Ford entered a not guilty plea on her behalf.

Long Caye resident cleared of rape charge
Long Caye resident Pedro Trujeque walked free from a charge of rape after the DPP’s office submitted a nolle prosequi in the trial against him on Friday, September 30, because the alleged victim could not be located. Trujeque was accused of raping a Honduran woman, in her 20s, on Long Caye on February 11, 2014. The woman made a report and requested court action but according to sources she just could not take living in Belize any more and left the country nine days after the incident and has not returned since. The woman claimed she came to Belize looking for a job and Trujeque told her he had a job for her. He invited her to the island where he had the job for her. One day after working, she told him that she was leaving the island to go get her passport stamped. He walked her to the dock and while waiting, rain came so they had to run into the house. According to the woman, that is when Trejuque asked her for a kiss and when she refused to kiss him he raped her.

Belize Bank Bulldogs repeat as National Women’s Softball Champions
The Belize Softball Federation held its XXVI National Women’s Softball Championship from September 30-October 2, 2016, at Rogers Stadium in Belize City. On Sunday 2nd October, 2016, in the championship game, the two times defending champions the Belize Bank Bulldogs defeated the BTL team in six innings by the score of 9-2 to capture the women’s title for the third time in as many years. BTL batting in the top of the 1st inning scored the 1st run of the game when its leader off hitter Lydia Cacho opened the game with an infield single. Cacho later scored on a fielders’ choice when Noricia Frazier grounded out to the second baseman. In the bottom of the 2nd inning, the budding champions tied the score at 1-1 when shortstop Sherette Vernon opened the inning with a single to centre field advanced on a pass ball by the catcher Earlene Belisle, advanced to third base on a fielder’s choice and scored on a wild pitch. BTL scored its 2nd run of the game in the top of the third inning when Lydia Cacho doubled to left field and scored on a fielder’s choice.

CYDP football competition continue at the MCC Grounds
The Conscious Youth Development Programme Football competition continued at the MCC Grounds with a number of games played on Sunday and Saturday October 1st and 2nd respectively. On Sunday 2nd October, in the only game played Ebony Lake FC and Kings Park Strikers FC played to a 3-3 draw. The goals for Kings Park Strikers FC were scored by Patrick Max (2) and Latrelle Middleton, while the goals for Ebony Lake FE were scored by Manu McCaulay, Jermaine Zuniga and Marguise Stamp. On Saturday 1st October, in the first game played, Yabra FC defeated Police Street by the score of 3-1. The goals for Yabra FC were scored by Delroy Andrews(2) and Germaine Foster. For the Police Street squad, the goal was scored by Tevin Robinson.

Belmopan Bandits maintain lead in Premier League competition
The Premier League of Belize Opening Season Tournament continued over the last weekend with four games on the schedule. On Saturday 1st October, 2016, at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium in Belmopan, the defending champions the Belmopan Bandits defeated Verdes FC by the score of 2-0. The goals for Belmopan Bandits were scored by Aloision Teixiera in the 33rd minute of play and again in the 71st minute of play via a penalty kick. On Sunday 2nd October, 2016, at the MCC Grounds the host team Belize Defence Force and FC Belize played to a 1-1 draw. The Belize Defence Force was the first to get onto the scoreboard when Michael Myvette scored the 1st goal of the game in the 41st minute of play to give his team a 1-0 lead. The first half of the game ended 1-0 in favour of the Belize Defence Force.

Sugar City Hoops rolls on in Orange Walk
The Sugar City Hoops Basketball competition continues in Orange Walk Town at the Orange Walk Multi-Purpose Complex and the East Sports Complex. On Saturday 1st October, 2016, at the East Sports Complex in the 17 and under competition, Ever Ballaz defeated Technical High School by the score of 45-36. The top scorers for Ever Ballaz were Tyrique Dawson with 21 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists and 4 steals; Diego Alvarez with 9 points and 3 rebounds and Elrick Tillett with 8 points, 18 rebounds, 3 steals, 2 blocks and 1 assist. For Technical High School the top scorers were Clinton Shaw with 18 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists and 1 steal; Henry Higinio with 7 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 assists and a steal and Brython Bull with 5 points. In the 25 and under competition, Jumani won handily over Belize Road Bullets by the score of 108-74. The top scorers for Jumani were Roger Reneau with 17 points. 7 rebounds, 4 steals, 3 assists and 1 block; Shemar White with 15 points, 7 rebounds, 1 block and 1 steal, Charlton Flowers with 15 points, 2 rebounds, 2 steals and 2 assists and Raul Vanegas with 10 points, 6 rebounds, 7 assists and 2 steals.

International Day of Older Persons and Senior Citizens Week Celebrated
On October 1 Belize along with the rest of the world celebrated International Day of Older Persons. The United Nations is marking the International Day of Older Persons by encouraging countries to draw attention to and challenge negative stereotypes and misconceptions about older persons and ageing, and to enable older persons to realize their potential to build a life of dignity and human rights. The theme for this year’s celebration is: “Taking A Stand Against Ageism.” Ageism is the discrimination of any person based on their age. A press release from the National Council of Ageing states that approximately 6% of Belize’s population is an older person and that each year this population continues to grow and it is projected that by 2040 this number will have more than doubled to 18%. Many older persons continue to be the back bone of their families contributing through child care, housekeeping and other domestic tasks that go unrecognized and unpaid. October 1st offered us an opportunity to show appreciation and recognition to older persons for their contributions and also to recognize the challenges that come with ageing.

Iconic Belizean passes
On Tuesday morning we were saddened to learn that Belize had lost one of it best citizens in the person of Ms. Norma Sutherland . Ms Norma as she was more affectionately known was a great teacher, parent and motivator. She had a passion for teaching and her students came first. The Guardian through myself had a personal contact with her. My first encounter with Ms Norma was about 35 years ago when I was a student at the then BJSS #2 now Gwen Liz High school. I never personally had her as a teacher but I saw the way she handled the young ladies she taught. My next encounter with her was about 30 years later when both of us tutored at Samuel Haynes Institute of Excellence. I certainly learnt a lot from her. My lasting image of her would be the way she got down and sat in the little chairs used by the infants 1 & 2 students. She did so to make eye contact. For her to die at this time during all that’s going on with our teachers reminds us that there were once great teachers. We could use those former teachers as a sort of gauge of where we are in regards to the quality of our teachers. Her motto and driving force was that it was all about the children.

The Belize Times

SIMPLE SEDI SEH TEECHAZ NOH READY!
In an interview granted to the media on Saturday, October1, 2016, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Pickstock Area Representative Wilfred ‘Sedi’ Elrington took the opportunity to express GOB’s opinion of teachers, coming out of a UDP National Party Council Meeting to address the BNTU’s industrial action. According to Sedi, the teachers should not really be dabbling in matters like corruption and good governance and those pesky social and political issues. He told the astonished media that, “It is not my understanding that they have the remit really to take on all the issues of the country, and I don’t even know whether they have the wisdom or the ability or the competence to deal with those issues.” The brazen insult by a senior Minister of Government is nothing new to the teachers who have had to endure vicious attacks from UDP operatives who have accused them of being “illiterate” and “money-hungry.” BNTU President Luke Palacio has been singled out for special attention, accused of misguiding teachers and persuading them to push a PUP agenda. This UDP government has continued to underestimate the teachers even as support countrywide grows and other entities have allied themselves with the fight for good governance.

COLA President Charged for Belcan Bridge Bonfire
This morning at 8:00am COLA President Geovanni Brackett and Perry “Sticks” Smith, accompanied by their attorney Kareem Musa, handed themselves in to Precinct One Police. They were charged with “causing a bonfire to be set” on the Belcan Bridge. Two minors and 23-year-old Adrian Avaloy were charged with “setting a bonfire.” ACP Chester Williams who was at Precinct One while Brackett and Smith were being charged affirmed that the Police have never been known to stifle activists and he was not following any political directive to charge the accused. He would not disclose what evidence they have gathered so far but stated that they have methodically conducted their investigation to get all the necessary evidence to lay charges.

CFZ CEO Terminated With Extreme Prejudice
The Belize Times has confirmed that politically appointed CEO of the Corozal Commercial Free Zone Raul Rosado was terminated, with immediate effect, on Friday, October 1, 2016. Rosado, who ran for office under the UDP, is related through family to former Deputy Prime Minister Gaspar Vega, and is also the Chairman of Minister of Health Pablo Marin’s Corozal Bay constituency. Reports are that Rosado’s termination is a result of serious and chronic wrongdoing which was brought to the attention of CFZ Executive Chairman Gregory Gibson by the Corozal Free Zone Chamber of Commerce.

GOB Conspiracy to Discredit Bishop Dorick Wright..?
A leaked BNTU letter in which President Luke Palacio asks Catholic Bishop Dorick Wright for a meeting has raised serious alarm. In the short letter, the BNTU expresses gratitude to the Bishop and to the Catholic Church for “the tremendous support given to us throughout our fight for Good Governance, Accountability and Transparency from the Government of Belize.” But it continues, “We also wish to express our deepest disappointment with the disrespect shown to you and your office by Sister Barbara (General Manager of Catholic Pubic Schools) and hereby reiterate our support for you as Leader of the Catholic Church in Belize. Having seen the manner in which matters have been dealt with, compounded by the visit of the Papal Nuncio, as well as the alleged attempt at your removal, we wish to meet with you at your earliest convenience to discuss these and other matters that are of concern to our Catholic teachers and Union.”

THINK ABOUT IT
Dean Barrow took over the Senate last Friday. With 6 UDP Senators and the President who is also a UDP, Dean “Whiff of Corruption” Barrow decided he would impose his will on the people of Belize. He had decided three weeks ago that there would be no Senate Select Committee to investigate the Immigration corruption scandal. He proposed that a Bi-Cameral Committee of a few Senators and a majority of Ministers in the House of Representatives was the only way to have an investigation. This was to be his way or no way. As a result, the proposal for a Senate Select Committee was defeated. At that Senate meeting, the Senator representing the churches did a strange thing. He spoke in favour of a Senate Select Committee but when it came to a vote he voted with the government/UDP Senators and defeated the motion. The people of Belize and the various social partner groups were alarmed. The Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which initially had been hoodwinked into agreeing with Barrow to undermine a Senate Select Committee, changed their minds and publicly supported the Senate Select Committee.

Yabra FC, Kelly Street, Coast Guard & Police FC Win in CYDP Football
Yabra FC, Kelly Street, Coast Guard and Police FC all won in Week 3 of the Conscious Youth Development Programme football competition at the MCC Garden over the weekend. In Game 1 Saturday morning, Yabra Strikers won 3-1 vs. Police FC when Germaine Foster scored the 1st goal and Delroy “Thinman” Andrews soon added 2 more. Tevin Robinson scored Police FC’s only goal. In Game 2 Saturday, Kelly Street FC won 4-2 vs Survivors United with goals by Steven “Bredds” Baizar, Francis Andrews and 2 from Kadeem Myers. Survivors’ Clinton Gill and Khambrel Blease scored a goal apiece in their loss.

Team Belize Wins 3rd place at FIVB World Qualifiers
Team Belize won the bronze medal with a 4 win – 2 loss record at the Central American regional qualifiers to the FIVB World Championships, hosted by the Belize Volleyball Association (BVA) at the St. Catherine Academy center in Belize City last week September 24-30. The win also broke a 16-year drought of not reaching the medal podium in any major tournament! Belize’s 4th win came Friday night, as Belize took all 3 sets: 25-16, 26-24 and 25-15. Bryton Codd led the attack with 14pts, while Karym Coleman and Keith Castillo hammered home 13pts apiece. The Hondurans conceded 23 pts to Belize on errors, while Belize made 20 errors. Belize had posted their 2nd win vs. Panama last Monday: 25-21, 25-12, 20-25, and 25-17, also getting 38pts from Panama’s errors.

Bandits Still No.1 in PLB Football
The undefeated Belmopan Bandits are still No.1 in the Premier League of Belize with 6 wins in Week 8 of the opening season tournament, while undefeated FC Belize fell to the No. 2 spot by a 1-1 draw with the Belize Defence Force at the MCC Garden on Sunday. The BDF scored first when Michael Myvette put some finesse on a pass from Paul Nunez for the finish into the net, BDF: 1-0 in the 41st minute. Oliver Hendricks equalized for FC Belize from the penalty spot in the 55th minute: 1-1.

Questions to Ministers
Would the Member for Queen Square and Prime Minister please confirm or deny reports that he is actively acting to remove Roman Catholic Bishop Dorick Wright because the Church has supported teachers and condemned corruption in this government? Would the Member for Queen Square and Prime Minister please state which Cabinet Ministers actively lobbied for the removal of his CEO Audrey Wallace on the grounds that as a member of the LGBT community she is bad for the government’s image? Would the Member for Collet and Minister of Education please say whether he has sought help for his problem which has been causing an embarrassment to his Party? Could he further say whether it is true that he has been asked by high-ranking members of the UDP to seek counselling?

MY PERSPECTIVE – THE TEACHERS AND MLK
A young friend of mine who is taking an Ethics course at the University of Belize told me recently that the teacher had asked them to read Martin Luther King Jr.’s “Letter From A Birmingham Jail.” Right away I told myself that I would go and read it again, having read it in college in the United States many years ago. In April 1963 Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK) had already emerged as the leader of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. The Montgomery Bus Boycott which made Rosa Parks famous had taken place, and MLK and other civil rights activists had formed the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. Things had not been going well when the campaign began in Birmingham, Alabama against racial segregation and economic injustice, and so MLK and others led marches and sit-ins, and they openly violated laws which they considered unjust.

Fortune Favours the Bold
Although grace of God and blessings of elders bring achievements, a hardworking and sincere person gets the cooperation of all due to his bravery. Fortune or destiny smiles on him because he dares to achieve the goal. Always luck goes hand in hand with people who dare to work out for enforcing something new to traditional systems. Only those people get positions in history that show bravery and fight against the prejudiced customs and rituals. In other words, those who move against the flow of the stream are heroes, not the persons who swim with the flow of the steam. Fear is a state of mind and unless and until one thinks more and more positively, bravery will not come. To progress and prosper one has to be bold enough to cross the hurdles in the path of destination. Challenges and obstacles are ever present in the way of life and if it is decided strongly to achieve the goal nobody can stop the person. Gandhi, Abraham Lincoln and George Cadle Price are the best examples of this, and the popular saying “fortune favors the brave” fits them perfectly.

Thinking Out Loud
As I write this, teachers countrywide have decided that they will extend the strike at least two more days. I have said it before and I will say it again. As the Mayor of Orange Walk Town, as a parent, as a Belizean and as a man I could not be more proud of these men and women who are fighting the good fight. They are demanding that this worthless UDP administration do the right thing – that’s all – just do the right thing and be a responsible government. What could ever be wrong with that? I can tell you that when we took office here in Orange Walk nobody knew how monies were being spent. All they knew was that money was going in and coming out and voters did not feel that they were getting value for money. One of the first things we did was to open everything up and make it all transparent so the people of Orange Walk could have an input in the work of the Council and see how their money was used. Our electorate deserves no less than the responsible and equitable allocation of their monies.

GOB Railroads Senate Committee Selection Process
At last week Friday’s Senate meeting, the Barrow Government ignored the will of the people who were calling for a completely independent Senate Committee to investigate the corruption exposed at the Immigration Department. Their 6 Senators predictably threw their support behind the Government-friendly motion which was tabled at the meeting by Church Senator Ashley Rocke. Once again, the Church Senator finds himself being accused of betraying his church constituents and the Belizean public. By his actions, he opened the door for the Government to get 2 of its Senators on that committee to inquire into wrongdoing by their own UDP colleagues. The immediate outcome of the meeting is that a Senate probe which was being demanded is now closer to becoming a reality. In getting there, the Church Senator recommended that the Government should get 2 Representatives on the Committee. Every other organization represented in the Senate is only allowed to have one member.

A SHARED RESPONSIBILITY
John Briceño, PUP Leader: We are grateful for the opportunity to share our initial plans on how we intend to govern our nation. We in the PUP know that through our struggle was born a peaceful revolution. Through our work to build this nation, our struggle has been constructive and progressive at its core. The Father of our Nation, the Right Hon. George Price bequeathed to us this spirit and understanding that together, through hard work and the guidance of our Creator, we can fulfill our aspirations. We in the PUP will always believe that our progressive revolution seeks to uplift our people – be it from the indignity of colonialism to any other form of injustice. We believe that our nation’s development hinges upon our collective responsibility to move Belizeans from poverty to prosperity. This is why we center our efforts and beliefs in Social Justice.

Barrow’s Incompetence – A US$67.3M Bukut
Prime Minister Dean Barrow has failed to deliver on his promise that the people of Belize will get 60% of that half a billion-dollar settlement that he negotiated with Lord Michael Ashcroft. Because he signed a badly drafted contract, about 50 million dollars that should have belonged to Belizeans is locked away. The Caribbean Court of Justice confirmed this on Thursday, September 29, when they handed down their judgment via teleconference. The Government, represented by Denys Barrow, failed to convince the judges of the apex court that they should bail out the Government of the contract they signed. They came to the Court with excuses that what was intended in the settlement deed was that the entire Accommodation Agreement portion of the award by the tribunal was supposed to be placed in a Trust for the benefit of the Belizean people. But the CCJ sent GOB packing with that invalid assumption.

“How did things come to this?” Cries D.O.B
“How did things come to this?” asked Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean O. Barrow in a 9-minute televised address on September 25, 2016 in a clear attempt to one-up the Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU) who in a September 23rd letter, hinted at industrial action. But while the PM seemed to question how we got here, the BNTU was clear on its stance. So, the following Monday, September 26th, they publicly announced strike action for Monday October 3rd. During the full week that passed, things happened hard and fast. In yet another attempt to dissuade the teachers from striking, a hastily-called special sitting of the Senate was held for Church Senator, Pastor Ashley Rocke to table – for a second time – a motion for a Senate Inquiry into the findings of the special Auditor General’s report on Immigration and Nationality. If it was intended to appease the teachers, it had the opposite effect.

Special Needs Child Perishes in Lake I Fire
Tragedy touched the home of 42-year-old Carolyne Hamilton on Aloe Vera Street Extension in Belize City before 8:00 the night of Tuesday, October 4, 2016. Her 11-year-old special needs son, Aaron Gabourel, died in the blaze. On the scene, we spoke with a distressed Nicole Hamilton, Carol’s sister who told us that at the time of the fire she was at a neighbour’s house after returning from the hospital where she had gone to see her partner who had recently been shot. She was called by her father who shared the bad news – “My pa tell me my sistah house geh ketch pon fire and my nephew supposedly geh bun up een deh. But I mi try be optimistic thinking that yes, di house bun but not di lee innocent baby.”

SOLIDARITY
The Office of the Prime Minister has now become the Department of Defence & Evasive Manoeuvres. Mr. Barrow, through his own bombast and greed for power, is now forced to spend much of his time defending his actions and the actions of his Cabinet even as scandal after scandal reeking of corruption threaten to capsize the ship of state. The Master of the Game has been forced to utilize every trick and treat at his disposal to deflect and dodge REAL scrutiny and any accountability. There is an underlying theme in the rallies being conducted by teachers as they maintain their bold and brave fight. They want real change, meaningful change for the benefit of the entire country, and ALL Belizeans. They are tired of the lies and tired of the rhetoric. They feel that they have been played by Dean Barrow, taken for fools by this man who used them to fight his political battles during those tumultuous times over a decade past.

If Dah Noh Soh
I deh tell yuh…disya govahment dah wah sissy govahment. Mein, unnu noh deh undastand weh pipple deh seh? Dih PM behave like he nack fuh he head. Pipple wah unnu fix up an fly right. But instead ah listen, unnu wah deh attack pipple like soh lee sissy. Dat dah lone fool. An dih mo unnu attack, the stronger dih teachers get, soh nack-head Dean betta get dih sense an man up quick, fast ah hurry. Yuh yer? Word to this overweight scribe is that CEO in the Office of the Prime Minister Audrey Wallace is gone. Remember a few months back when the real deal kicked the big deal’s ass? Apparently as far back as that Ministers have been pressuring the PM to get rid of Audrey, the only CEO allowed to sit in Cabinet. A little bird sang to me that the Ministers are telling him it doesn’t look good for his CEO to be an out of the closet member of the LGBT community at a time when this is such a hot topic. I’m just saying that’s what I’m hearing. Word is that the Prime Minister has given in and is pushing Audrey to BTL to take over when the first son leaves with his megabucks severance package in hand. Oh boy why doesn’t Dean adopt me?

Breaking Belize News

CEO of Corozal Free Zone resigns
Raul Rosado Sr., the CEO of the Corozal Free Zone for the last 8 years and also a high ranking UDP member and financier in the north has resigned from his post. But what led to his sudden resignation? There are multiple reports including […]

Compassion in the midst of recession
The administration led by Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow since 2008 has excelled in many ways. The physical transformation of the nation’s infrastructure network is one that is unprecedented and will no doubt go down in history. But another important thing that distinguishes […]

Teacher’s strike to go into fifth day
There will be a fifth day of strikes by the Belize National Teachers’ Union, on Friday. At this hour, the ten branches of the Union are meeting countrywide and on Friday morning, the Council of Management will meet and thereafter communicate the decision on […]

Teenager arrested in San Pedro Town for drug trafficking
A 16-year-old boy has been arrested in San Pedro Town for drug trafficking. According to reports, this morning around 8, authorities stopped and searched a teenager on Sea Star Street in San Pedro Town who at the time had a small cartoon box in […]

NEMO hands over houses to Hurricane Earl victims
The Minister of State for National Emergency Management, Hon. Edmond Castro and NEMO National Coordinator, Colonel Shelton DeFour were in Rural Belize District yesterday, October 5, 2016 officially handing over houses to victims of Hurricane Earl whose homes had been damaged beyond repair, according to […]

Blogs

The Great Belize Debate…Island or Mainland?
Today’s blog is a guest post by Lessons in Belize blog by Pepper Carpenter. She is documenting her journey and sharing the valuable lessons as she travels to and lives in different districts of Belize. After visiting the island of Ambergris Caye in 2013, Pepper was hooked! Returning several times to explore the many diverse areas of this beautiful country, from Corozal on the northern border, San Ignacio in the Cayo district to Placencia in the south and the beautiful islands of Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, it came down to two choices. I spent months looking at options in Belize. Placencia continued coming up in articles, real estate listings and travel blogs as a peaceful, quaint village on the mainland coast. I had not ventured to this southernmost region of the country, but felt it was worth a short trip after reading about the beauty of the beaches and uniqueness of this small fishing village. After the first visit, I have to say, I loved it! Yes, I loved Caye Caulker….but a little too slow. Yes, I loved San Pedro….but a little too crowded and fast. For me, I’ve found Placencia to be “just right”. It’s apparent the core values and kindness of the Belizean people are what makes this little country so appealing, regardless of which region you choose.

Creating a GREAT Future for our Children
We all know that the future is for our children, and in order to prepare them to venture forth, we need to nurture them from a young age. That’s the thought between the GREAT (Gang Resistance Education and Training) Program which aims to improve the lives of our children by guiding them along the right path. The GREAT Program targets children in the upper primary and high school levels and has 13 sessions delivered in the classroom once per week by a trained police officer. The Youth and Community Transformation Project’s objective is to reduce vulnerability of children and youth to crime and gang membership in Belize. This is being achieved by providing services to enhance literacy, adaptive life skills and expressive arts and sports skills, support conflict mediation and improve inter-linkages and the sharing of best practices among participating agencies working within these communities. The project is being financed by the Government of Belize through a loan facility from the Caribbean Development Bank.

Belize Weather: What to Expect
The weather in Belize is generally warm; our near-the-equator setting pretty much guarantees sunlight and blue skies throughout most of the calendar year. That said, Mother nature is still unpredictable and travelers may sometimes find themselves staring up at angry gray nimbus clouds, or no clouds at all. If you’re wondering what the skies are like here, allow us to give you the run down on Belize Weather, what to expect, and when! Belize is nestled in the Central American Jungle, right at the edge of the Caribbean Sea, just south of the Tropic of Cancer (totally not what it sounds like). The tropic of cancer is the northernmost point at which the sun may appear directly over Earth on the northern (summer) solstice. Residing within that range allows Belize to see warm, sunny, summer-like days long after other places have begun to chill over.

One Of The Most Affordable Options For Retirement In The Caribbean
I am a big fan of little Belize. I’ve been recommending Ambergris Caye, Belize’s Caribbean face, for years and, more recently, the country’s Cayo District for its back-to-basics self-resilient lifestyle. Another part of this country is worth a look, too. Northern Belize is a remote region of tropical rivers, hardwood forests, traditional farms, sleepy rural villages, and breezy Caribbean seashores. This is a refreshingly off-the-radar place where residents embrace a simple, friendly, by-the-sea lifestyle. It is also the best value destination in Belize and one of the most affordable options for retirement in the Caribbean. Northern Belize is an area of about 2,500 square miles and the point where the Caribbean and Central America meet. As that geographic juxtaposition suggests, the population is diverse, and it is becoming more so as North American retirees are beginning to recognize what this overlooked part of Belize has to offer and settling here in growing numbers.

Thanksgiving in Belize isn’t that different…
Since Thanksgiving is an American and Canadian holiday, you may believe that it is not celebrated in Belize. However, yes, Belize does celebrate Thanksgiving, and similar to the US, it is in November. As for why Belize celebrates Thanksgiving, I am not certain if it is due to the influence of American television or religion, but I believe it may be the latter. I say this because as a kid I remember having to go to church on Thanksgiving Sunday, and it was a big deal. Interestingly, everyone gave special offerings on this day, as a form to show God that we were grateful for our blessings throughout the year – kids would take a small basket of fruit, and adults would take homemade baked goods. At the end of the sermon, the items would be sold back to the congregation. Lol The church sermon would end at noon and we would go home to enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving meal, which was usually a whole roasted chicken with stuffing and rice and beans with potato salad, since my mom thought turkey was too dry. Anyway, I hope you enjoyed my vignette.

The National Symbols of Belize
A national symbol is any visual, verbal or iconic representation that serves to unite the people of a nation, while proudly portraying the country’s values and history. Each country has at least one symbol to celebrate and inspire patriotism and nationalism, Belize is no exception. A charming, sub-tropical country, Belize possesses 5 unique national symbols. Selected by a bipartisan committee, these symbols are easily recognizable and respected among locals and those familiar with the country. We’ve compiled these 5 “National Symbols” with information on each, so feel free to learn and enjoy!

International Sources

San Ignacio Resort Hotel
It’s not often you find a luxury hotel with an on-site iguana conservation project, but that’s what you get at the 26-room San Ignacio Resort Hotel. Family-run since 1976, it’s set in 17 acres of Belizean rainforest and is within walking distance to lively San Ignacio town. Dubbed the ‘the only jungle in town’, the hillside location on the Macal River in Belize’s Cayo District gives this hotel an out-of-the-way feel. although it’s only a 10-minute walk to the restaurants, bars and shops of San Ignacio, and there’s a casino next door. The Mayan site Cahal Pech is close by, and it’s a 30-minute drive to the temples of Xunantunich and 40 minutes to Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) caves. Many guests cross the border to Guatemala to visit Tikal’s Mayan citadel. Built by Escander and Paulita Bedran in 1976, this relaxed hotel is now run, in varying capacities, by their four daughters. The bright, airy lobby with its whirring fans is decorated with local artwork, and there’s an inviting lobby bar. Best of all is the outdoor patio overlooking the pool and rainforest; you might even spot an iguana over cocktails or dinner. It’s not ground-breaking design, but it’s classy, comfortable and colourful.

DYS Rep Speaks Out Against G.O.B.
The teachers were certainly fired up at this morning’s Belize City rally; and so was Shawn Saldano. If his name sounds familiar, it is because you probably know him from the music track “I am Belize,” or as public relations representative for the Department of Youth Services, which is a Government department. But Saldano did not let that stop him from speaking up today. Shawn Saldano, Youth Representative “Of course, some may want to label me now, but I am here to tell you teachers that there is no doubt in my mind that you get my utmost respect and regards. Now the purpose for the strike action—be it the three percent or be it the call for good governance—I continue to hear the words the lack of wisdom, competence and capability. But we must really ask ourselves, who taught you the content that you have and are able to exemplify today. Isn’t it the same educators?

Caribbean Tourism: The value of emerging markets
The value of emerging markets was discussed at a recent CTO SOTIC event held in Barbados. The Caribbean region harbors a wealth of opportunities for economic development. Being beautiful is both a blessing and a curse. Possessing some of the best beaches in the world, surrounded by the incredible Caribbean Sea, endless days of brilliant sunshine, and yet everything is not perfect in this region of sand, surf, and sun. While the individual nations rely heavily on the tourist for a positive and consistent revenue stream, the industry is very fickle and competition increases daily. In addition, the industry is subject to the whims of consumers who are easily bored, heavily marketed for their discretionary income decisions, easily deceived by what is instantly “hot,” and a moving target that is difficult (if not impossible) to corral.

Voting USA: Will my #Vote2016 be counted?
Election officials count every valid vote received by the state deadline! Register to vote, request an absentee ballot or check the status of your ballot. Select your State or territory of residence to get started.

World’s first ocean trash recon mission is complete – and the results are way worse than we thought
The Ocean Cleanup just completed its first aerial reconnaissance scan of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch to assess how serious the problem of ocean plastic has become - and the results are worse than anyone expected. At a press conference in Mountain View, California, teenage inventor, CEO and founder Boyan Slat announced that the organization spotted over 1000 large pieces of plastic debris in just 2 hours.

Videos

October 6, 2016

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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, Rise and Shine Morning Show, and the Dickie Bradley Specials

The San Pedro Sun

Vivian Noralez wins Miss Petite Teen Earth International
18-year-old Vivian Noralez made international pageant history as the first Belizean to compete in the Miss Teen Earth International pageant. She added to her achievements by walking away with the prestigious title of ‘Miss Petite Teen Earth International 2016’. After being in Panama City, Panama for five days, she arrived on La Isla Bonita in grand style on Monday, October 3rd, where a crowd of family, friends, and supporters gathered at Tropic Air to welcome her back. Miss San Pedro 2016-2017 Marisha Thompson, and Miss San Pedro Lions 2016-2017 Solani Graniel embraced Noralez and joined her on a gaily decorated golf cart to parade throughout the town’s core. Miss Teen Earth International was held at the Continental Hotel & Casino in Panama City, and the pageant focuses on promoting ecotourism, as well as environmentally beneficial activities. Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, Belize, Peru, Venezuela, Paraguay, the United States, Galapagos Island, and Panama were among the top 10 finalists. The competition saw swimsuit, national costume and evening gown segments, followed by an interview with the judges, which included on-stage questions.

BTIA’s 2016-17 Destination Belize magazine unveiled
Titled “Travel Curious”, the October 4, 2016 release of Destination Belize marks the first publication of the iconic magazine since 2014. Two covers were chosen for the official marketing magazine of the Belize Tourism Industry Association. The publication was successfully redesigned and re-branded through the efforts of McNab Publishing Ltd., the Belize Tourism Board and other tourism industry stakeholders. Destination Belize highlights the entire country of Belize, focusing on its natural and cultural gifts, told through informative articles and stories. Inspired by the social media driven “Capture the Cover Contest”, McNab and Leonardo Melendez Photography then captured similar visuals as those of the submitted photographs for the two cover shots. The images feature the wildly distinct features of Belize: our magnificent Barrier Reef Reserve System and the amazing underworld of the Aktun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Caves.

Team Victoria House are the 2016 6-A-Side Interoffice Football Tournament Champions
The 6-A-Side Interoffice Football Tournament came to an end on Saturday, October 1st , with three sets of games at the Honourable Louis Sylvester Sports Complex. The evening saw matches in the junior and senior category, culminating with the anticipated match for the tournament’s championship between Rain and Victoria House. After an intense match, Team Victoria House, with a final score of 2-1, was crowned the 2016 Champion of the Interoffice Football League. Around 8:30PM, the sporting arena was packed with football fans eager to see the championship match. The battle for the first place between Rain and Victoria House kicked off, and the cheers turned to loud roars. Victoria House was the first to score ten minutes in to the first half. Despite several attempts from Rain to even the score, the first half finished with Victoria House in the lead. During intermission, the spectators were treated to a dance performance by a group of talented dancers from Benque Viejo del Carmen.

Queen Conch season reopens
After a three month hiatus, the 2016-2017 fishing season of the Queen Conch (Strumbus Gigas) officially re-opened on Saturday, October 1st. Every year, conch represents a significant source of revenue for traditional fishermen, and its harvesting generates millions of dollars for Belize’s fishing Industry. The season runs from October 1st until June 30th of the following year. However, if the conch quota is met before the season ends, then the Cooperative Department of the Belize Fisheries Department (BFD) has the right to close the season early, which they did last year.

Team Belize grabs Bronze at Men’s Volleyball World Championship Qualification Tournament
Belize captured bronze at the Men’s Volleyball World Championship Qualification Tournament, after winning their final match against Honduras on Friday, September 30th at the Saint Catherine Academy Centre in Belize City. The title is the first time in 16 years that Belize has accomplished such a remarkable result in a sporting event of this kind. The tournament was held from September 24th through the 30th, and included teams from Belize, the Dominican Republic, Panama, Nicaragua, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras. At the start of the competition, Team Belize had a slow start, but eventually began improving their performance as the tournament advanced. All teams competed in a round robin series in which the most important aspect to advance was the amount of points each team accumulated.

Ambergris Today

Rotary Club to Present Magic Show
The Rotary Club of Ambergris Caye announces the Intermagia Magic Show — an evening of mystical magical entertainment from a traveling, international magic group with eight members from Spain, Chile, Guatemala, Mexico and Costa Rica. The event will be held at the Paradise Theater on Monday, October 10, at 2p.m. and 7p.m. Tickets can be purchased from Crazy Canucks, Wayo’s Beach Bar and Keller Williams on Front Street. There is also a limited number of reserved “Chairs for Charity” seating where reserved ticket holders can enjoy a front-row view and seat service. Monday will feature two magic shows —a matinee show for San Pedro families and children at $10 per person and a special adult show for $50 per person. The show will also open with San Pedro’s local tumbling group, The Saints. Last year, both San Ignacio and Belize City hosted sold-out events that were a huge success, so it’s going to be an exciting event to bring magic to the island of Ambergris for the first time.

New and Improved, Destination Belize Magazine Revealed
October 4, 2016, marked the release of the new Destination Belize magazine in a press conference that took place in Belize City. This issue becomes the Belize Tourism Industry Association’s (BTIA) 17th edition and a first for McNab Publishing Ltd., a publication that is the result of a successful collaboration with the Belize Tourism Board as well as other tourism industry stakeholders. Redesigned and re-invented, Destination Belize reveals Belize’s natural and cultural magnificence. The publication plays a vital role in marketing the country–delving into Belize’s six districts, sharing informative articles, and advertising Belize’s best tourism offerings.

Misc Belizean Sources

VACANCY NOTICE for Health Professionals wanted at the Ministry of Health.
Visit the link to see vacancy notice for a Mental Health Coordinator and Regional Health Manager among others. Take note of closing date for the vacancies.

COLA President charged in connection with Tire Burning on Belcan Bridge - Official Police Report
On Monday 3rd October 2016, about 4:30 p.m., police responded to a fire on the Belcan Bridge on Central American Boulevard, Belize City where they saw several tires on the bridge engulfed in flames. This incident caused hindrance to the free passage of traffic which was delayed for a long period of time. On Tuesday 4th October 2016, police investigations led to the arrest and charge a 16-year-old minor along with 23-year-old Adrian Avaloy and a 17-year-old all of Belize City for the offence of “Setting fire”. On Wednesday 5th October 2016, police arrested and charged 33-year-old Giovanni Brackett and 30-year-old Clayburn Pascacio both of Belize City jointly for “Cause a Bonfire to be set”.

Students from Sacred Heart Junior College have joined in the strike action
A group of students from Sacred Heart Junior College have joined in the strike action in solidarity with teachers. While this group was out with their placards early, the teachers are scheduled to convene at 1pm for their demonstration.

Belize Destination 2016/2017 Magazine Online
Access this superb publication online. Please enjoy.

Boo at the Zoo 2016
The Belize Zoo is having their annual Boo at the Zoo on October 29th. "BOO AT THE ZOO!: Join us for another spook-tacular 'Boo at the Zoo' event on Saturday October 29th from 1:00pm to 5:30pm. The entire family can come out and enjoy special animal encounters, treats, sweets and more! There will be prizes for the best kids' costume! Keep an eye out for updates on ticket outlets in Belize City, Belmopan, and San Ignacio. Call the Belize Zoo at 822-8000 or email [email protected] for more information."

New Soundz Rockz Benque
The Benque HoC had another great Full Moon Concert! "New Soundz Band from Orange Walk made a banging showcase of the richness and emerging talents in our Jewel. Our community and visiting audience totally enjoyed and danced the night away.We take this opportunity to send our humble acknowledgments towards all the logistical support to bring this event forward."

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2016
It's Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Miss Barrow, the Special Envoy for Women and Children, has a video out about breast cancer. Spread the word, and walk in a cancer walk if you can. "National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a chance to make a difference by raising awareness about the importance of early detection of breast cancer. Become involved by spreading the word about mammograms and self breast examinations for early detection and easier treatment."

Belize Bird Rescue thanks Mr Anonymous Oilman
A HUGE thank you to Mr Anonymous Oilman who sponsored our poor tractor through its hospitalisation and restored her to peak health and beauty. The Blue Beast is now back up and running (take THAT Hurricane Earl) and we are forever in your debt Mr Anon!!!! The Blue Beast is invaluable to BBR for collecting fresh browse, perching and produce, hauling caging materials and cleaning up around the aviaries. We have been lost without her. Welcome back lady, and bless that amazing, generous donation!

Have you applied for your parrot permit?
Got a parrot??? Get a permit!!! The deadline is near!!! Don't forget to apply! Apply for your permit by picking up an application form from any of the Forest Dept offices (Belmopan, San Ignacio, Orange Walk, Savannah Independence, Pine Ridge) or by visiting our website and downloading the application form. Our apologies, the information here is a little out of date in that the agencies have not been resupplied with the forms. http://www.belizebirdrescue.com/licence-programme

Expo Destinos 2016
Belize Tourism Board

BTB’s Annual Tourism Industry Conference
Saturday, October 22 at 9:30 AM - 4 PM. At the Ramada Belize City Princess. The Belize Tourism Board’s annual Tourism Industry Conference aims to share knowledge with our tourism industry partners on how to effectively operate in the industry based on past, present and future opportunities, threats and accomplishments.

Ambassador Carlos Moreno hosted an Environmental Round- table
On September 30, Ambassador Carlos Moreno hosted an Environmental Round- table with local Belizean stakeholders at the U.S. Embassy in Belmopan. Key government, environmental NGOs and private sector representatives engaged in the round table which focused on the issue of water management in Belize. The Ambassador’s Round-table brought together decision makers to discuss challenges and areas for collaboration in the formulation and implementation of polices aimed at conservation and better use water resources in Belize.

Top 7 Nonstop Airlines and Flights to Belize
Want a nonstop flight to Belize? According to American Airlines Flights to Belize, here are the following flight schedules of nonstop flights to Belize: American Airlines offer daily flights from Miami to Belize all year-round including that departs five times a week from October to November. It also has flight schedules on an everyday basis for the remaining months of the year. One of the cited schedules of flight from Miami to Belize is from: Friday 11:11am to Saturday 11:20am, Friday 12:20pm and Saturday 12:36pm. American Airlines offer daily flights from Dallas to Belize, one that heads off on Saturdays for all months except October and one that heads off daily in all months excluding October and November.

Cocktails for the Manatees
Saturday, October 15 at 8 PM - 11 PM, Hour Bar Belize. Things are looking up for endangered Antillean manatee, but the work is not done. This year we are seeing a slight reversal over previous trends. At least part of this can be attributed to the hard work of staff and volunteers of the Sea to Shore Alliance and our partners, who along with the people of Belize are committed to protecting them here, in their last stronghold.

Splashers
Join us this week at Crazy Canucks Beach Bar to paint these lovely Hibiscus!

Catholic Archbishop Kalenga Meets PM Barrow, Calls for BNTU to Return to Negotiating Table
Prime Minister Right Honorable Dean Barrow met with Archbishop Leon Kalenga, Papal Nuncio to Belize, this morning at the Prime Minister’s Belize City office. Among other matters, the Prime Minister and the Vatican's Emissary discussed the current Belize National Teachers’ Union strike, and the fact that so many Roman Catholic schools are among those closed by the strike. Archbishop Kalenga, as Representative of the Holy See, made clear that the interests of the children are paramount and that those interests require schools to be open and children and teachers to be in their classrooms. The Archbishop therefore called for the BNTU to return to the negotiating table with Government and for teachers to return to school. Children should not be punished, the Archbishop said, and issues between the BNTU and Government needed to be worked out through dialogue and not school closure.

Utilities Union & Christian Workers Union are in full support of the BNTU.

BNTU Corozal Town Branch
Today, Corozal Town teachers go on a house to house campaign advocating and teaching the most important lesson to all..."STAND UP FOR BELIZE" Students, teachers, business leaders, everyone in our Corozal Community you are welcome to join the motorcade that will leave the junction of Libertad at 9:00 in the morning Thursday, September 6th to the Andres Campos Civic Center for a grand rally. Support our teachers and wear "green". At this corner, we support our teachers 100% and we will march with them shoulder to shoulder until it is necessary.

5 things to know about BELIZE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 2016!
1. It takes place in Belize City from November 10-13 entirely at the Bliss Center for the Performing Arts with encore showings of select films to take place November 14-16. 2. Free Community Screenings will take place in 9 public spaces countrywide. 3. The BIFF Symposium will take place on November 11 & 12 also at Bliss. All master classes held as part of the two-day Symposium are free and open to the public. 4. Ticket prices will be: Opening Night - $25 (red carpet arrival, cocktail and film), with a CASH BAR; Closing Night - $15 (film, reception, awards show); Film Screenings - $10 each on Friday and Saturday; Festival Pass - $75 (Includes opening, closing and access to all films in the festival. 5. On a date to be announced, tickets can be purchased at the Bliss Box Office, and for the first time, online at the www.belizefilmfestival.com website.

A review of Tony Wright's book, "Belizean Musicians past and present!"
The classic long overdue history of Belizean musicians past and present finally came through Tony Wright's touching rendition in narratives of Belize's most celebrated musical artists and musicians of all times in the book, "Belizean Musicians past and present". It's been recently since yours truly luckily got a copy, earlier than was expected, through the kind efforts of my cousin Elena Babb who purchased it and send it through my sister who had just returned back to Los Angeles from Belize for the September celebrations. Browsing through it almost immediately, the colorful photos of some of my favorite Belizean artists, bands, and musicians made me smile and brought me back to the days of my teenage musical explorations in Belize when receiving a top vinyl album through the Belize post office of one of my favorite musical artists or bands from the States. Tony's acclaim book of Belize's musical best touched my heart as the copy touched my hands. Fresh off the press in Belize, the work pulled me deeply in a solitude moment of one automatic reading of every story page by page. In reflecting on its content, Wright had produced a masterpiece of Belizean musical anthology that will be the best Belize will ever see from a homegrown Belizean social revolutionary in a long time.

FCD returns back to the Vaca Forest Reserve
After 18 months of absence, FCD returns back to the Vaca Forest Reserve. Today a meeting was held with the Management Committee of Friends of the Vaca Forest Reserve. Attending were also representatives from the Forest Department, Agriculture Department and Cooperatives Department.

Channel 7

Child Perishes in Fire, Two More Critical
Tonight a family in the Lake Independence Area is grieving deeply after an 11 year old child perished in a house fire, while two others, 4 and 8 are clinging to life at the KHMH. And to make it worse, they are sure someone set their house on fire. 7News was on the scene last night and it's one of the worst domestic tragedies we've ever seen. Jules Vasquez has the report:… Last night Caroline Hamilton strode up Aloe Vera Street towards her home - the apparent confidence in her gait gave no clue of what she knew awaited her at the end of the street. She implores the fire men, "Is my child dead" - unable to respond, they return blank stares: Caroline Hamilton - Mother of Child Perished in Fire: "My baby dead? Please tell me..." Fireman: "No mommy we just the try figure out"

Pope's Emissary Says Catholic Bishop May Have To Be Replaced
Turning now to the news of a visit by Catholic Archbishop Léon Kalenga. He's the Apostolic Nuncio of Belize and El Salvador, and as the Ambassador for Pope Francis, he is the Vatican's Diplomat to Central America. He was in Belize today, after Sister Barbara Flores – manager of Catholic Primary Schools, sent him an urgent invitation last week. That's when the Catholic Bishop Dorrick Wright issued a statement in favor of the school strike and telling parents to keep their kids home – which went against what Sister Barbara understood to be the official position for Catholic Schools. So Kalenga was here on important church and state business, and as the Holy See's emissary, he paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Dean Barrow. That meeting was to have taken place at the Radisson Hotel, but at the last minute, it was changed to the Prime Minister's Belize City office. That shift did allow us to get an opportunity to speak with Archbishop Kalenga at the Radisson, and he shared briefly with us the reasons for his visit. Chief Among them is the failing health of Belizean Bishop Dorick Wright, and the very real possibility he will have to be replaced.

Archbishop Says Teachers Must Teach, Kids Must Be In School
This evening, the Office of the Prime Minister released a statement outlining the meeting Archbishop Kalenga had with the Prime Minister. That press release notes that the Archbishop discussed a number of topics with the Prime Minister. Those included, quote, "the current Belize National Teachers' Union strike, and the fact that so many Roman Catholic schools are among those closed by the strike." The release goes unto say, quote, "Archbishop Kalenga made clear that the interests of the children are paramount and that those interests require schools to be open and children and teachers to be in their classrooms." End Quote. In that brief encounter with him, the press did ask him to share his thoughts on the strike which continued for its third day today.

Application Forms Ready For Temporary Teachers
But, that call will most likely go unheeded tomorrow, which is when the teachers will hold their second national demonstration in 2 weeks. The strike continued today, and making good on their plan of action, we saw Belize City teachers going house-to-house, visiting residents to meet with them directly and share their reasons for the extended industrial action. Last night, Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Faber told us that the Statutory Instrument to hire temporary teachers has been signed and today we learned that the Ministry of Education has already sent out application forms for teachers who want to be hired as temporary replacements. He said that his ministry would only bring the emergency measures into effect as a last resort, and that, "It is my hope that we will not have to at all." Well, the strike continues tomorrow, and the pressure on the Ministry to keep school opened is building. We've since gotten a copy of those application forms, and it looks like this.

Utility Unions Urge Teachers Back To The Negotiating Table To Fight For 3%
And while the temporary teachers await activation, tomorrow, the real teachers take it to the streets in demonstrations all across the country – but who will join them? – And we don't just mean bystanders, we mean which union. As we showed you yesterday, the PSU is just starting its national consultations and the Belize City one ended with no clear consensus on whether to join them tomorrow. But the utility unions met into the night, and issued a press release saying that they support the BNTU 100%, while also urging them to go back to the negotiating table. The release says, QUOTE, "we hereby…express our support for the teachers to be paid their 3% increase….we…call on other members of the joint negotiating team…to do their utmost best to unify their position in this regard." End quote. This statement refers to the fact that two of the unions – the PSU and the APSSM have agreed to defer their 3% increase.

Matthew Descends on Bahamas
Hurricane Matthew, a storm that was at one point recorded as the strongest hurricane in the region in the last decade, passed through Haiti, the Dominican Republic and parts of Cuba yesterday, leaving devastation in its wake. Matthew, now a Category 3 hurricane, has moved on to its next target, the Bahamas. Since it made landfall yesterday, at least 25 people have been killed in Haiti, and the Dominican Republic, and thousands have been displaced. Heavy flood waters swept through urban areas and farm lands, carrying cars, boats and livestock and even uprooting trees. While the storm makes landfall in the Bahamas tonight, residents of Florida and other states in the South Eastern US have begun their evacuation efforts.

Brackett Told Teachers About Tyre Fires, And Then...
Geovanni Brackett – he's been one of the most militant critics of the government recently – and on Friday you heard him turn his venom on Senator Pastor Ashley Rocke. As president of COLA he's also been backing up the teachers in their strike – and when he addressed a gathering of the teachers at their national headquarters on Tuesday, Brackett made it clear that COLA has its own way of showing support: Geovanni Brackett – President, COLA: "I could tell you that we at COLA is supporting the teachers 100%. So no bex if a lee road gets closed here and there, or a little tyre gets burnt here and there so we a show a little support a different way."

Brackett Charged For Setting Up Belcan Tyre Fire
Literally minutes after he said that, when the teachers were wrapping up that meeting in song, – the trye fire started on Belcan Bridge. Now, you might say, well, ok, there it is….but that's not how it works – you can't charge someone for a crime based on what they say. Brackett was at the BNTU when the fire started – but police say he was the man who set it all up. Today he was charged with causing a bonfire to be set. After hiding out from police last night, he turned himself in today:… A small group of COLA loyalists gathered near the precinct one police station waiting for their president who pulled up in his attorney's BMW at 8:20 AM, along with his co-accused, Perry "Sticks" Smith. For today's performance, the t-shirted Brackett had to quickly slip into his militant uniform and was embraced by his COLA supporters. Those COLA supporters warmly welcomed Officer Commanding Southside Chester Williams who arrived and pressed the flesh like the police-tician that he is.

Brackett and Co. Taken To Court
So that was earlier today and this afternoon Brackett and Perry "Stix" Smith were arraigned at the Magistrate's court. As we told you they, along with Clayburn Pascascio were charged with causing a bonfire to be set without police permission. The trio pled not guilty to the charge and were released on bail of $500. When the men emerged from court we challenged them on their alleged involvement in the Belcan Bridge Blaze. Brackett and Stix maintained that they had nothing to do with it. Geovanni Brackett – President, COLA: "I maintain my innocence, during these heightened times and heightened period I'm expected that these kind of heat is to come down on me and I will remain that I am innocent until proven guilty." Courtney Weatherburne: "And I have to make reference to the comments that you made at the same BNTU meeting; Angel and I were there. You mentioned, I have the transcript right here that's already taken out that you mentioned that COLA is in full support of the teachers 100%. And in your words: "So no bex if a lee road gets closed here and there, or a little tyre gets burnt here and there so we a show a little support a different way." I have the transcript here sir what do you have to say in response to that?"

Stix And Dianne Duel Over "Youth"
Now even before the arraignment, there was some heated back and forth outside the courtroom about the role of the 2 minors. The allegation is that Brackett and his crew paid these minors to start the tire fire. Well, these boys happen to be a part of Dianne Finnegan's Youth Apprenticeship Program and she was there to defend her youth. We start off with Finnegan's comments and move on to Smiths and Brackett's as they deny the allegation. Dianne Finnegan - Coordinator, Youth Apprenticeship Programme: "The sad thing about it is that I've been saying forever that when you talk about crime and violence young people don't just get up and do things. It's instigated, it's because of a reason and what is so sad here is that adults who you think should know better, who say they represent the people and are there to try and make a difference, a positive difference in people's lives are the ones who are manipulating these individuals to get their agenda across and that is wrong and that is sad."

Musa Says Brackett's Tyre Comments Have No Bearing On What Happened
But Brackett's comments to the teachers about "a little tire getting burnt here and there" – how damning is it really? His attorney said it is inconsequential:… Jules Vasquez: "Are you concerned that those comments may assist in framing him?" Hon. Kareem Musa - Attorney for Brackett/Smith: "They are absolutely in no way connected, they would have to try to connect those dots and it's a far stretch to even connect that. Geovanni say things on a daily basis against this government but there is no connection, you have actually go out there and light the fire to be charged with this particular offence and that's not what the police is saying you know. They are not saying Geovanni went out there and set this thing on fire and that's the injustice of this whole thing, they are trying to say that he is one who organised it."

Chamber Applauds GOB, Says Luke Had It Wrong
Last night, we showed you how BNTU President Luke Palacio said that from his meeting with the representatives from the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry, he concluded that Government did not need to wait until December 9 to sign the United Nations Convention Against Corruption. During the news, two Government sources called us to say that Luke has it all wrong, and today, the Chamber confirmed that indeed he is. Their statement starts by applauding the Government's commitment to sign unto the UNCAC. Their statement says, "The BCCI also recognizes that the signing of the UNCAC triggers a time-clock for the effective implementation of a foundation framework that will enable the main sections of the convention: Preventive Measures; Criminalization and Law Enforcement; International Cooperation; Asset Recovery; and Technical Assistance & Information Exchange."

USAID and PASMO Shut Down in Belize
USAID, the United States Agency for International Development, and PASMO, the Pan American Social Marketing Organization, will both be pulling out of Belize in a few weeks. Recently both have been active in HIV and AIDS prevention and education awareness and as part of the winding down of operations, USAID held a forum today at the Radisson Hotel entitled, "Presenting results and good practices for 10 years of promoting a sustainable response to HIV in Belize." We stopped by to find out how exactly their absence in Belize will affect those vulnerable populations, such as men who have sex with men. Here's what the Director of Health Services had to say: Dr. Marvin Manzanero - Director of Health Services: "I know PASMO has closed the doors so whatever activities they were doing they would have to be subsumed somewhere else. It's not only the ministry of health I think other entities at the NAC will be looking at it. I believe PASCA is still going to be around for a next couple of weeks as I understand it but they are still wrapping up their activities as well. So some other entity or entities would have to pick up that responsibility."

Why Did Raul Rosado Roll?
He's been CEO of the Free Zone for 8 years, but Raul Rosado says he's moving on – and tonight, there are many murmurs about the terms of his sudden departure. Rosado told us today that he has been looking at business opportunities, specifically one in the free zone for the import and export in clothing, accessories and footwear. He said he didn't want to create a conflict of interest so he stepped down, in consultation with Free Zone Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Directors. Rosado conceded that the Zone's Chamber of Commerce was quote, "a little worried about the conflict of interest", so he agreed to resign. But what about reports that he had been intercepted with huge amounts of undeclared cash? Those were all over Facebook yesterday and Rosado says the rumour about being caught with 1.5 million us dollars in Southern Belize is false, and the report about undeclared money at the PGIA, is about another Rosado not related to him.

Magicians Visit And Cast A Spell
Magicians from South America and Europe will cast a spell with a mind bending performance at the Biltmore this weekend. It's the "Intermagia" Magic Show, organized by the Rotary Club of Belize, which features 3 magicians from Spain, Guatemala and Chile. They stopped by our studio today to tell us how they will show Belizeans what magic is all about. First, the Rotary's Fundraising Director did the introductions: Misty Michael – Fundraising Director, Rotary Club of Belize Sunrise: "This is the second year that our rotary club is organizing the Intermagia Magic Show. It's basically a magic show that has magicians from Central America, Guatemala, Mexico, Chile, Costa Rica, we have one from Spain who has worked with a very famous magician that some Belizeans might know, by the name of Chris Angel, in Las Vegas." Alex Courtenay: "And can you tell us a bit about the show that will be happening?"

Channel 5

11 year old Boy Killed in Tragic Fire; 2 Other Minors Cling to Life
The most tragic of deaths—heartless and cold—is that of an innocent child being killed. That’s what happened on Tuesday night on Aloe Vera Street when an arsonist entered into the [...]

Geovannie Brackett and 5 Others Charged for Belcan Tire Burning
On Monday afternoon, an eerily familiar scene unfolded on the Belcan Bridge in Belize City as burning tires blocked traffic and filled the air with thick, black smoke. Unlike the [...]

Dianne Finnegan Attacks Activists for “Recruiting” Youth Apprentices
The two minors charged along with twenty-three year old Adrian Avaloy for setting the tires on fire are participants in the Youth Apprenticeship Program that is coordinated by Dianne Finnegan. [...]

Kareem Musa Wonders at Police’s Double Standards
While Finnegan called out Brackett, Brackett’s attorney – Kareem Musa – who is also the area representative for the Caribbean Shores called out the police. He says he’d like to [...]

B.N.T.U.’s Branches Get Ready for Simultaneous Nationwide Demonstrations
Today is being celebrated as World Teachers Day. But, for the teachers in Belize, it’s day-three of their strike action as a part of the Stand Up for Belize Campaign. [...]

Teachers Hit the Streets for Public Education and Community Service
The Teachers’ Union believes its message can be better spread to the community. So today, the men and women usually found in their classrooms were out on the pavement across [...]

Utility Unions Throw Support Behind B.N.T.U.
On Tuesday evening, the three unions representing public utility workers – the Communication Workers’ Union, the Energy Workers’ Union and the Water Services’ Workers’ Union—met in Belize City to discuss [...]

Chamber of Commerce Still Deciding on Possible Shutdown
The Belize National Teachers’ Union wrote to the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Tuesday requesting their support for a shutdown of businesses on Thursday. According to the Union, [...]

Business Community Pushes for Governance Reforms While Waiting for UNCAC
Meanwhile the Chamber has reacted to G.O.B.’s announcement to sign the United Nations Convention on Anti-Corruption on December ninth. The B.C.C.I. says it supports Government’s plans to sign the UN [...]

Cayo’s Student Teachers Join B.N.T.U. Protests
On Monday, we showed you the students of Muffles Junior College protesting in solidarity with their teachers. It was a rather interesting dynamic, as many have criticized teachers about abandoning [...]

Papal Nuncio Visits, Weighs-in on Teachers’ Strike and Bishop’s Succession
On Tuesday, the B.N.T.U. sent a letter to Reverend Bishop Dorrick Wright expressing their support for him and in turn thanking the Reverend Bishop for his support of their strike [...]

Man Charged for Ladyville Attempted Murder
A Ladyville man was arraigned and charged with attempted murder, use of deadly means of harm, dangerous harm, wounding and aggravated assaulted of two brothers which happened on September tenth. [...]

Teenager’s Charges Dismissed; He Escaped Alleged Police Brutality
Teenager Leon Martinez is free of any criminal charges tonight. Police say he tried to escape from the Ladyville Police Station while under detention for an alleged burglary and common [...]

NEAB Out of Section 53 Appeal; UNIBAM’s Caleb Says They Were Taught a Lesson
On Tuesday, Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin, who, in August, authored the historic decision on Section Fifty-three of the Criminal Code of Belize, denied the application for leave to appeal made [...]

Caleb Orozco Says Sex Definition Needs to be Litigated
The Government, represented by the Attorney General, initially chose not to appeal the decision at all, provoking fierce reaction from Belize’s more conservative elements. It was only after some protest [...]

U.S.A.I.D. Closes Doors in Belize and Looks Back at HIV/AIDS Program
Back in 1996, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) closed its Belize office after thirteen years and more than one hundred million U.S. dollars in assistance to Belize. [...]

Grandparent Puts Idle Children to Work in Support of Teachers
Support has been coming in for teachers from all corners and tonight, one parent is taking on the challenge. Maria Villanueva, a resident of Belize City, is in full support [...]

B.N.T.U. Reflects on World Teachers’ Day
As we mentioned earlier in the newscast, today is World Teachers Day. While it was not planned to coincide with this ongoing strike, B.N.T.U.’s Kathleen Flowers, says they are gratified [...]

CTV3

Traffic Accident Claims Life Of Trial Farm Resident
A resident of Trial Farm Village is tonight dead after he reportedly lost control of his motor vehicle near the entrance of Blue Creek Road upon his return from ‘La Union’. According to reports the incident played out yesterday evening shortly after 6:00 in the evening when twenty eight year old Javier Quischan was travelling from an east to west direction on the Blue Creek Road approximately ¼ of a mile away from the police station on his motorcycle with license plate OW MC 00387. Quischan lost control of the motor vehicle and ran into a barbed wire fence. The twenty eight year old received a large cut wound to the neck which resulted in his immediate death. The body was transported to the Northern Regional Hospital where it currently awaits a post mortem examination.

GOB To Sign UNCAC On December 9th
Yesterday the Government of Belize announced their intention to sign onto the United Nations Convention against Corruption on December 9th which is celebrated as International Anti-corruption Day and not immediately as being asked by the BNTU in their list of eight demands. Today the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry who has pledged its support for teachers, issued a release supporting GOBs decision to sign the UNCAC on International Anti-corruption Day stating that a signature by the Government on that date would be symbolic. Although the BCCI has pledged their support for BNTU in their demand for good governance they also state that they recognizes that the signing of the UNCAC triggers a time-clock for the effective implementation of a foundation framework that will enable the main sections of the convention being: Preventive Measures; Criminalization and Law Enforcement; International Cooperation; Asset Recovery; and Technical Assistance & Information Exchange which will require the revision of local laws, the establishment of a secretariat among other necessities that would take time.

PSU Carries Out Rounds Of Consultation With Membeship
The Public Service Union has come under criticism lately for their role in the negotiations over the 3% salary deferral with Prime Minister Dean Barrow. The delay in the payment proposed by the Government was rejected by the BNTU, but supported by the PSU and the Association of Public Service Senior Managers. The disagreement over whether or not to defer the salary adjustment has created a division among the three groups, and it is believed that it is the reason why the PSU has not shown much solidarity with the BNTU. Well, in an effort to heal those wounds, the PSU has commenced a national consultation tour for members to decide the PSU’s next move. This morning we met PSU President Eldred Neal in Corozal Town where, despite it being his birthday, he was engaged with his membership.

Belizeans Robbed In Chetumal
Reports coming out of Chetumal Quintana Roo, Mexico indicate that a trio of young Belizeans were the victims of a robbery while crossing the old Mexico-Belize Bridge. Reports are that the victims were walking across to Subteniente Lopez when they met face to face with their assailant. One of the females fought with her attacker who fled the scene after the bag he took away from the victim ended in the Rio Hondo. The accident occurred at about midday yesterday and Mexican Authorities were called in to record statements from victims reported to be 22, 24 and 27 years old respectively. The victims identified their attacker as being of light brown complexion, wearing white shirt and brown short pant. When the bag was retrieved the victims realized their attacker made good his escape with BZ$200.00, $400 pesos and US$100.00

Three Utility Unions In Support For BNTU Strike Actions
The Utility Unions, which comprises of the Belize Water Services Workers Union, the Belize Energy Union and the Belize Communication Workers Union have pledged their support for the Belize National teachers Union. In a joint press release issued earlier today, the three unions expressed their support for the 3% increase for the BNTU as per their agreement with the Government of Belize. The Utility Unions’ also urged the Joint Negotiating Team (JNT) to come together and put an end to the salary deferral issue. In addition, the unions made clear that the issues brought forth to GOB by the BNTU would have been better addressed and resolved if all unions had acted together under one umbrella which is the NTUCB.

VIP Stands In Solidarity with Teachers Strike Action
The Vision Inspired by the People and the Belize Progressive Party today also responded to GOBs decision to sign onto the United Nations Convention against Corruption on December 9th. In their release the VIP commends the BNTU for their strike action, stating that the teacher’s actions have forced Government to set a timeline for signing on to the United Nations Convention against Corruption. The VIP also adds that the acceptance of the UNCAC is a significant undertaking which can only be successfully implemented with the input of workers, and as such is appalled that workers representatives are absent from the deliberations leading to the signature by government of the United Nations Convention against Corruption, and urge GOB to include the BNTU in the ongoing deliberations as workers representatives.

LOVE FM

Young Boy Perished in House Fire; Police Suspect Arson
An eleven year old boy perished in a fire last night in Belize City. He is Aaron Gabourel and he was asleep when his house caught fire last night. His mother, Caroline Hamilton, believes that it is a case of arson which makes this the second time her home was set on fire. She believes […]

CFZ CEO Was on His Way Out
He ran the Corozal Free Zone for over eight years but tonight, Raul Rosado is out of the zone as he was asked to resign. The request for his resignation came on the heels of reports that Rosado was found with an obscene amount of money at the Philip Goldson International Airport prior to leaving […]

COLA’s President Arrested for Bonfire among Others
The President of Citizen Organized for Liberty through Action, COLA, Geovanni Brackett, was charged in relation to the bonfire set at the Belcan Bridge on Monday. Brackett handed himself over to police this morning and Love News reporter, Hipolito Novelo was there to see how it unfolded. Here is his report. Also arrested and charged […]

Catholic Archbishop Says Strike Should Be Suspended and Classes Restored
The Most Reverend Archbishop Leon Kalenga Badikebele of the Roman Catholic Church is in Belize where he has been meeting with the Belize’s Catholic Bishop, Dorrick Wright as well as the Prime Minister, Dean Barrow. While the Archbishop Badikebele told the media today that it is not unusual for him to come to Belize since […]

Day Four into Strike Action by Teachers
The Belize National Teacher’s Union Belize City Branch held a meeting today to finalize plans for tomorrow’s demonstration. President of the Union’s Belize District Branch Kathleen Flowers that every branch will be having its own style of demonstrating; as for Belize City, she spoke of their plans. KATHLEEN FLOWERS “Tomorrow is a national demonstration day […]

BNTU Takes Teaching to the Streets
The Belize National Teacher’s Union embarked on an educational campaign today going house to house and to different establishments to educate the public on the eight demands made by the BNTU that has led to tomorrow’s demonstration. President of the Belize District branch Kathleen Flowers stated that the educational campaign had one sole objective. KATHLEEN […]

BNTU Gets Out-pour of Support from Fellow Sister Unions
The utility unions have pledged their support for the Belize National Teachers Union. A joint release from the Belize Water Services Workers Union, the Belize Energy Workers Union and the Belize Communications Workers Union, states quote, “As directed by our membership, and through this medium, we hereby publicly express our support for the teachers to […]

Education Ministry Pools Substitute Teachers in the Event of Prolonged Strike
Application forms are now available for substitute teachers that will take over the classrooms in the event the Belize National Teachers’ Union continues their industrial action. Education Minister, Patrick Faber spoke on the pool of teachers that will be chosen from should it come to that. PATRICK FABER ” A memorandum was sent out dated […]

Chief Justice Dismisses NEAB’s Application for Leave
In September the National Evangelical Association of Belize had filed an application in Belize’s court requesting leave to appeal the Chief Justice’s ruling on Section 53. Yesterday that application was struck out leaving the NEAB with a ruling to cover the legal costs incurred by Caleb Orozco as well as to the Attorney General. Love […]

USAID Closes Its Offices in Belize
After working for decades in Belize, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is removing its physical presence from Belize and closing its offices. Today, the organization held a halfday session that zoomed in on the last ten years and the outputs of the support they had given in the fight against HIV in […]

Breaking Belize News

Man murdered in Benque Viejo
Reports reaching BBN is that a man was shot two times to his chest on his way to San Jose Succotz tonight. The incident occurred in the area of Hills of promise, on his way back from Benque Viejo as he went to meet […]

PSU holds national consultation with membership
The Public Service Union (PSU) was one of the unions that supported Government’s decision for a delay in the payment of the 3 percent increase. The PSU and the APSSM both supported government whilst the BNTU rejected that proposal. This decision has created a division among […]

Traffic accident leaves one man dead
Javier Quischan, 28, from Trial farm village is dead after he lost control of his motor vehicle near the entrance of Blue Creek Road upon his return from ‘La Union’. According to reports, the incident occurred yesterday evening shortly after 6:00 in the evening when […]

Papal Nuncio says Vatican to arrange succession of Bishop Dorick Wright
The Vatican is seeking someone to succeed Bishop Dorick Wright as he continues to ail. In an interview with the media before his meeting with the Prime Minister, the Papal Nuncio told the media “Removal is not the word. Bishop Dorrick is still our […]

PUP calls on Belizeans to Stand up for Belize
The People’s United Party issued a release today with its party leader John Briceno’s message on the occasion of World Teachers Day. In his message, he states that it is time to build support for their vocation and encourage teachers to always look to […]

Catholic Archbishop Kalenga Meets PM Barrow; Calls for BNTU to Return to Negotiating Table
Prime Minister Right Honorable Dean Barrow met with Archbishop Leon Kalenga, Papal Nuncio to Belize, this morning at the Prime Minister’s Belize City office, according to a GOB press release. The Prime Minister and the Vatican’s Emissary discussed the current Belize National Teachers’ Union strike, […]

SHC calls off classes for today and tomorrow
The Board of Governors of Sacred Heart College and Junior College has cancelled classes for today and tomorrow. The reason mentioned in the press release is that 99 percent of the student population was absent for class today. The board says that this is […]

Ministry of Education puts out emergency teaching applications
Tensions have been running high between the BNTU and the Ministry since teachers have extended their strike to four days and it is not known if it will be extended for longer. The Ministry has been on a campaign of ‘giving facts on the […]

Utility Unions’ support BNTU
The Utility Unions’(Belize Water Services Workers Union, Belize Energy Union and Belize Communication Workers Union) have issued a press release expressing their support for the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) 3% increase as per their agreement with the Government of Belize. The Utility Unions’ also […]

Papal Nuncio to meet with Prime Minister
The Papal Nuncio Archbishop León Kalenga is in Belize. This comes after the Catholic diocese had sent out a press release expressing support for the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU). The media had got hold of a leaked letter that Sister Barbara Flores, General Manager […]

NEAB Application for Appeal Dismissed; Ordered to Pay Caleb’s Costs
.The National Evangelical Association of Belize (NEAB) went to the Supreme Court about three weeks ago to file its appeal application against Caleb Orozco’s victory in the Section 53 case. Yesterday, their application failed and this means that they cannot be joined in the case […]

COLA president and 4 other persons arrested for Belcan bridge fire
Assistant Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams has announced that they have arrested and charged Geovanni Bracket, President of COLA and 4 other persons who they believe are responsible for the burning of tires on the Belcan Bridge. Williams stated that the arrest came “after […]

Disabled child dies in fire in Belize City
Police in Belize City are looking for a man who set a house in fire in the old capital last night. According to reports, on October 4, 2016 around 8:00 p.m., Caroline Hamilton, 42; Winston Gabourel Sr.,34; Melisa Hamilton, 30, of #6 Aloe […]

Blogs

Hocus Pocus with Rotary Club of Ambergris Caye
I have always been a big fan of magic – I watch Fool Us when ever I manage to catch it on TV. I have even seen Penn and Teller live when I was in Las Vegas for the world famous Consumer Electronics Show – great time. So you can imagine how pleased I was to find out that thanks to the Ambergris Caye Rotary, a cool international magic show is coming to Ambergris Caye and there is something fun to do on our small island besides hang out at a bar :> Intermagia Magic Show consists of a group of traveling, international magicians with eight members from Spain, Chile, Guatemala, Mexico and Costa Rica. Where: Paradise Theater. When: Monday October 10th, at 2:00pm and 7:00pm. The 2:00pm show is a matinee show for families and children. Tickets are $10 per person. The 7:00pm show is a special adult show for $50 per person. There is also a limited number of reserved “Chairs for Charity” which are selling for $100 per person. Reserved ticket holders can enjoy a front-row view and delivered food and beverage seat service.

The Release of Destination Belize Magazine On A Beautiful Day in October
Yesterday was a gorgeous one on Ambergris Caye – and…it also marked the release of the new Destination Belize magazine. A magazine that was previously published by the Belize Tourism Board. And you could generally find it on your side table when you got to your resort… I’m not going to lie. The previous editions were pretty…blah. But this new one, revamped by McNab Publishing and the BTIA, is colorful and beautiful AND there is GOOD information and the pocket edition is super cute. Full sized with the reef…pocket size with the AAAHHHHHH-mazing ATM Cave. HUGE BUCKET LIST TOUR. And perhaps my favorite part…the MUST DOs in each location. Here is Ambergris Caye.

Signs You Should Move Abroad And Signs You Should Stay Put
Do you dream of living abroad? Think you could pare down your belongings to embrace a life living in a cozy (read: tiny) apartment on a steep cobblestone street? If so, you might be ready for the leap to move abroad, but if this doesn’t sound so charming, you might need to reconsider expat living. Before you pick up and move your life to another country, get some travel experiences under your belt first. Find out what cultures complement your personality — maybe it’s the relaxed pace of the Caribbean or maybe you’d more inspired being surrounded by artists and intellectuals in a European metropolis. You won’t know where you belong in the world until you explore it.

Gulisi Garifuna Museum in Dangriga, Belize: Top Tips Before You Go
Founded in 1984, shortly after gaining independence from Great Britain, the Gulisi Garifuna Museum is named for one of the heroes of the Garifuna’s flight across the Caribbean. Gulisi was the name of a single mother with 13 children who founded the village of Punta Negra (in today’s Toledo District) after escaping persecution from the British and a lengthy trek across the Caribbean. Today, the museum has multiple interactive exhibits on the Garifuna culture, including traditional drumming, Garifuna spiritual beliefs, a living full-size garden with traditional herbs and plants, and traditional dancing. There is also a special exhibition dedicated to showcasing some of the most famous musicians in Belize who were of Garifuna descent. In 2001, UNESCO declared that the Garifuna language, music and dance were invaluable contributions to the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The museum is located two miles outside of Dangriga in Belize’s southeastern Stann Creek District. The museum’s only official address is Chuluhadiwa Park but there are signs pointing to it as it lies just adjacent to the Hummingbird Highway. The museum is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Monday through Friday and from Saturday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM (noon) except for national holidays. Entrance fee is $5 USD for non-residents and BZ$5 for residents and locals. The museum is located right off the Hummingbird Highway approximately two miles outside of Dangriga near Chuluhadiwa Park.

International Sources

NOAA Outlook for Central America October 06 – October 12, 2016
Over the last 7 days, rains were light and scattered across the most of the region. Western/central Nicaragua, especially, saw little precipitation. TRMM estimates indicate that the greatest rain totals (>100mm) fell over parts of southern Honduras and El Salvador. Moderate rains were also observed around the Gulf of Belize, southern Guatemala, and in Costa Rica and Panama. The overall pattern was that of suppressed rainfall for the majority of the Central American region.

Using yoga for the better good
Shannon Reilly is a junior at Seton Hall and an internationally certified yoga instructor who enjoys art, and nonprofit work with children. Reilly started yoga at the age of 12 around the time she was diagnosed with scoliosis. What started out as a way to improve her posture quickly became an ally off the mats too. Reilly decided to do her training in Rishikesh, India, the yoga capital of the world, in an effort to learn the ancient roots of yoga and the theory and philosophy behind the lifestyle. This began her journey into becoming an internationally certified yoga instructor. Reilly first became interested in working with children when she and her mom volunteered at a summer camp in Ambergris Caye, Belize, teaching kids how to make “eco-art” with objects available on the island. Reilly is also a member of the nonprofit “Let’s Imagine.”

After Belize: Graduate student continues raising donations after study abroad
Graduate physical education student Heather Prochaska can sum up her undergraduate study abroad trip to Belize in two words: life changing. “It completely opened my eyes to the basic health care that we take for granted in the United States almost on a daily basis,” Prochaska, who graduated from the exercise science program in May 2016. During her group’s time in the Central American country, she volunteered at a hospital and orphanage, helped host a health fair marketplace, gave physical therapy sessions to the elderly and helped to run a health clinic to encourage better health care practices in local communities. Prochaska witnessed not only the stark differences between the health care in Belize and the U.S.—but also how closely tied job stability in the San Ignacio region was to health.

“Cancun Forum 2016”
We are happy to extend an invitation to your business to participate in the “Cancun Forum 2016” to be held from November 16th to 18th, in Cancun, Quintana Roo. The event is being organized by ProMexico, AMEXCID, COMCE and the Government of Quintana Roo. It is the most important business forum in the Greater Caribbean region, aimed to foster regional economic development and competitiveness by increasing trade and investment flows. The forum also seeks to promote Caribbean exports and investment within the region, and explore new business opportunities for Caribbean companies in global value chains.

Belize is Attracting Tourists and Investors: Is it Right for You?
Belize is a paradise close to home for most U.S. residents; and it’s attracting investors as well as tourists from the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. Belize is the first emerging market opportunity in the Caribbean and Central America to fully coincide with the demographic shift of Baby Boomers and it is the fastest growing region in these markets. Ambergris Caye, an island just off the coast of Belize in Central America has been named Mexico & Central America’s Leading Destination for the second year in a row at the 2016 World Travel Awards. Named after the ambergris that was once found along its shores, it’s actually a petite island that once attracted thousands of adventurers in the Seventeenth century — hunting for the elusive substance that is still a priceless addition to quality, high-end perfumes, and was also considered to have remarkable medicinal properties from healing tuberculosis to working as a guaranteed aphrodisiac. Anyone lucky enough to find a lump of ambergris, which is produced by certain types of whales for buoyancy, could sell it for a fortune and retire to a life of luxurious ease.

Videos

October 5, 2016

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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, Rise and Shine Morning Show, and the Dickie Bradley Specials

The San Pedro Sun

Michelle Nuñez Fourth Runner-up at Miss America Latina del Mundo Pageant
Michelle Nuñez made her triumphant return to Ambergris Caye after excelling at the Miss America Latina del Mundo pageant, held at the Barcelo Occidental Grand Xcaret Resort in the Mexican Riviera Maya. Nuñez made her mark in international pageantry, capturing the award for Most Original Cultural Costume and the fourth runner up position to the 2016 Miss America Latina del Mundo, a title that was won by Miss Peru. Upon her return to the island on Monday, October 3rd, supporters and fans gathered at the Tropic Air terminal to give her a San Pedro style homecoming. An emotional Nuñez thanked everyone who welcomed her and proudly shared with them her prize. “I am very happy for having represented Belize at such a prestigious level,” said Nuñez. “It was a great experience, but also a tough pageant. I am glad I did well. Even though I knew I was competing against top contestants, I was always optimistic about my goal.” An entourage of gaily decorated golf carts then escorted Nuñez in a parade through San Pedro Town.

GOB Agrees on Date to Sign on to UN Convention against Corruption
Cabinet agreed on Tuesday, October 4th to accept the recommendation of the Government/ Belize Chamber of Commerce & Industry Working Group on the Implementation of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) to sign the UNCAC on December 9, 2016, which is the International Day Against Corruption. By that date, the joint GOB/BCCI Working Group fully expects to have determined the scope of the necessary measures, including legislative and administrative measures, to ensure the proper implementation of Belize’s obligations under the Convention after signing.

San Pedro man in critical condition following shooting incident
San Pedro Police are investigating a shooting incident that occurred in the early hours of Monday, October 3rd. 32-year-old Wayne Allen was at his residence in the DFC Area, along with his common-law wife, when he heard a knock on his door around 12:40 a.m. When Allen opened his door, an assailant fired at him twice in the face. Deputy Officer in Charge of the Coastal Executive Unit, Superintendent Henry Jemmott explained what the investigation has revealed so far. “Police visited the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II after midnight on Monday, October 3rd. The investigation revealed that Allen was at his residence relaxing, when he was approached by a lone gun man who fired several shots at his direction causing his injuries,” said Jemmott. He continued to state that Allen was airlifted and transported to the polyclinic for further medical treatment at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City. He underwent surgery, but currently remains in critical condition.

Misc Belizean Sources

GOB Agrees on Date to Sign on to UN Convention against Corruption
Cabinet agreed today to accept the recommendation of the Government/ Belize Chamber of Commerce & Industry Working Group on the Implementation of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) to sign the UNCAC on December 9, 2016, which is the International Day Against Corruption. By that date, the joint GOB/BCCI Working Group fully expects to have determined the scope of the necessary measures, including legislative and administrative measures, to ensure the proper implementation of Belize’s obligations under the Convention after signing.

Cabinet Calls for a Return to the Negotiating Table
The Cabinet of Belize is disappointed that the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) blatantly moved the goalposts in deciding to strike, close our nation's schools and affect children and their parents. The initial BNTU campaign was first declared to be centered on a good governance agenda as set out in the eight demands contained in their letter to the Prime Minister. However, the formal strike notice sent to the Chief Education Officer dated September 30, 2016, did a switch and listed the 3% salary adjustment and the so-called Proposal 22 as the main reasons for the strike. Yet, the BNTU had already acknowledged that the Prime Minister has proposed a compromise on the 3%, to which the BNTU has not yet responded; and that Government is seeking to reconvene the Joint Unions' Negotiating Team to further discuss the compromise.

Employment Opportunity
Visit the link for current job opportunities under the Japan Caribbean Climate Change Partnership

E.P. Yorke keeps doors open on second day of teachers' strike
While many schools in Belize City had limited or no classes at all today, Edward P. Yorke High School did; it was also open on Monday. The reason, according to principal Rodrick Cardinez, is that school policy established under his term ensures that school will always be open unless otherwise ordered by the Ministry of Education, which directly runs the institution. The school's B.N.T.U. representative reports back to the Union. Cardinez says the school has always been flexible with absences caused by external forces, such as rainy days and storms. Four teachers of a staff of 39 absented themselves on Monday and three were absent today; but in each case work was left for the students. Student absences were low - 36 on Monday, 24 today - and the school will not penalize any student kept at home because of the strike.

Two fires were set this morning in the South at approximately 4am.
The fires located were set at 11 & 18 miles on the Hummingbird Highway. Reports to our newsroom is that traffic was blocked for some time until the firefighters could arrive on location and extinguish the fire.

The new Destination Belize publication is being launched today.

Florentina Choco graduates from Barefoot College
Florentina Choco is the first Indigenous solar engineer from Belize to graduate from Barefoot College. Floretina traveled halfway around the world to India to learn solar engineering. Since being back home, she has already trained fellow communities to set up 68 solar energy systems. 387 more villagers in Santa Teresa now have reliable and clean electricity.

BELIZE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
Not long now! BELIZE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL Bliss Center for Performing Arts countdown is on... Tickets for film screenings will $10. The symposium master classes will be FREE and open to the public. More details coming soon!

Improvements at Nim Li Punit
With plans underway for cruise tourism to start making its way to southern Belize, the Institute of Archaeology is already mobilizing and preparing for an increase in visitation for our archaeological sites, with renovations and improvements planned in particular at Nim Li Punit.

Belize's Ocean Heroes
The Ocean Hero award began as a way for Oceana to recognize and celebrate exceptional accomplishments in ocean conservation, advocacy and education. Being an Ocean Hero mostly means taking action to protect our oceans for people and creatures today and for generations to come. The wave to that kind of impact can start anywhere…and by anyone.

Crocodile conservation and awareness
During the month of Croctober, we are planning to head to the local schools to promote crocodile conservation and awareness, with fun games, coloring sheets, etc. 1/week. Today was more of an interactive presentation into the Wonderful World of Crocodiles at the Peninsula International Academy- we had a great time today with all the student's, and loved their enthusiasm and excitement to learn! And the student's made our day when we asked what month it was (as we thought they would say October), and they all yelled back "Croctober!!!!"

Oct 4 Croctober Fact
It's World Animal Day! Take a moment to learn something new about the wildlife around us (such as did you know there are 24 species of crocodylians in the world?), and what actions we can take to ensure future generations can enjoy the myriad of species we have today!

BAHA has confirmed bovine paralytic rabies as the cause of death in cattle in 12 farms in three districts
Orange Walk, Cayo and Toledo Districts. An increase in cattle deaths has been reported since January 2016 with a peak in June 2016. The vampire bat is the vector for bovine paralytic rabies and 1 or 2 farms being affected with rabies cases are expected per year. This current increase is an epidemic. This puts animal and human health at high risk. People should avoid contact with any animal showing nervous signs, avoid handling wild animals and avoid exposure to vampire bats and other bats. The last epidemic of rabies in cattle was in 1999 (period 1980 - 2015). In Belize rabies has been known to occur in dogs and cats (last case in 2008), wildlife (last cases in foxes in 2006 ) and in humans (last cases in 1989). Rabies is a highly fatal disease that affects all mammals, including humans. The disease is always fatal but can be prevented through vaccination. Although laboratory confirmation is essential, affected animals will usually show nervous signs and aggressive behavior. Most animals will show paralysis of the hind limbs, may be down and have excessive salivation. Avoid handling animals showing these clinical signs and immediately call BAHA animal health officers.

The WassUp Expo !!
An opportunity for Youths to find out Wassup In San Pedro If you are between 13 - 29 come along with your family to find out WassUp in San Pedro.Take advantage of promotions and special offers. Get involved with a community service project or group. Promote your club. Fitness centers, Cross fit , Non Profit, School and college groups, music, diving , fishing clubs,sports teams come together in one place on one day only at Clubs and organizations are invited to showcase, promote, share information, and gererate awareness on what they have going on. Entry to youths is free

Minister of State for NEMO Hon. Edmond Castro Assesses Progress of Hurricane Earl Recovery & Rebuilding Efforts in Rural Belize District
Minister of State for National Emergency Management Hon. Edmond Castro has met with National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) co-ordinators in Rural Belize District to assess the progress of the recovery and rebuilding efforts for victims of Hurricane Earl, which made landfall in Belize exactly two months ago on August 4, 2016. The rebuilding efforts have included construction of homes and assistance with material for needed repairs such as lumber and zinc. In the Belize District, material has been distributed from the NEMO Office and Warehouse on the Phillip Goldson Highway near the Burrell Boom Junction, with loading, transportation and offloading assistance by the Belize Defence Force. Hon. Edmond Castro said he is pleased with the timely assistance provided to residents affected, and he thanked the NEMO coordinators, other government personnel and volunteers, as well as local contractors who have been a part of the recovery and rebuilding effort. He also thanked Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow and the Ministry of Finance for promptly making the resources available for the rebuilding effort.

San Pedro Health Fair on October 22! Free check-ups!
CALLING ALL SAN PEDRANOS to bring your families and visit the Lion's Den on October 22 9 AM - 2 PM for a FREE Health Hair! High Quality services being provided by various health organisations include: - Breast Exams - Lice Checks - Blood Sugar/ Pressure checks - Drug Information - Practical Zika Information - Brushing and flossing demontrations - Kidney testing - Rapid HIV Testing .... and a kid's corner to keep them entertained while you get your health checks done!

Cayo Youth Council Supports BNTU
he Cayo District Youth Council of Belize would like to reiterate that it stands in solidarity with the Belize National Teachers Union. It also understand and supports the actions the BNTU has undertaken to gain the attention of the GOB as they demand the promised 3% salary increase as well as the immediate attention to be given to the eight (8) national issues plaguing this country. Today through their actions our teachers are sending a message to the students and families per extension that in life one must stand for what is right and not allow people to do or give you what it is they want without consequences. That it is important for the people to start to think for themselves and ensure that they all be a part of the decision making process of this country. Enough is enough.

Cayo Vehicles Collision
Accident on the Theodeoso Ochoa Street in San Ignacio Town. One person has been reported injured.

Belize's Kristian Usher: MMA Champ in Chetumal Fight
Valetodo Chetumal MMA & kickboxing tournament results. Well the night started with great controversy as one school from Mexico fighters didnt make weight until the day of the event. While all our Belizean fighters made weight on the day of weigh-ins which was Friday. Here are the results: 1. Elias Meyer lost by TKO due to stoppage by his corner in the first round. Please note that he competed in a kickboxing match. He went to fight in a MMA match but had to fight in a kickboxing match instead.

Murder of Bladis Gonzalez of Chula Vista
And all points bulletin has been issued for the arrest of Robert Locke a.k.a. "Conch Fritters" of Chula Vista Corozal District in connection with the murder of Bladis Gonzalez also of Chula Vista, Corozal which happened in Orange Walk. Subject is wanted for the crime of Murder that occurred in Orange Walk Town on the 2nd of October, 2016 that claimed the life of Bladis Gonzalez. If he is seen kindly arrest him and inform the Orange Walk Police at 322-2022, 911 or if you know his whereabouts call your nearest Police Station. In Corozal, please call 402-0022.

Billy White Wildlife Outreach
The Belize Wildlife Referral Clinic teamed up with the Forest Department and Wildtracks to talk about wildlife, and why it should be allowed to stay wild, to Billy White Village. Thanks, BWRC! In related news, they are having their annual fundraising Gala on Garifuna Settlement Day at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel. "Thanks to a fabulous team of educators (tagged in pics) from BWRC, the Belize Forest Department and Wildtracks for participating in another follow up event for a special patient, with so many lessons to be learned (sorry lengthy post on this one). A kind human sent young Howler Monkey 'Molly' to the Belize Wildlife & Referral Clinic - BWRC for veterinary care and to return to the wild."

Cayo Halloween Celebration
The SISE Town Council and Bamboo Bar are teaming up to have the best Halloween party Cayo has ever seen. The all day event will be at the Cayo Welcome Center on Saturday, October 29th. Ascenthium will be performing, along with Rosie Wood, Eddie Allen, and Justin Castillo. There will be costume contests for kids and adults. "On Oct 29th at The Welcome center will be filled with trick or treats! Live music! Great food and drinks! Its an all day event! Bring the family!"

Five most visited sites in Belize
TOP 5! The Institute of Archaeology (NICH) Belize reports that these were the five most visited sites in Belize, from January to July 2016. See you at International Archaeology Day at Cahal Pech! Nohoch Che’en 104,667 (number of visitors, local and foreign), Altun Ha 68,876, Xunantunich 62,425, Lamanai 41,555, Cahal Pech 18,953.

"Birds of Belize & the Art of Taxidermy" exhibit
Dr Steven Zitzer educating students from St Andrews and Sacred Heart Primary School at SISE House of Culture, during the first opening of the "Birds of Belize & the Art of Taxidermy" exhibit. Many thanks Dr Steven Zitzer, for sharing such an amazing and educational exhibit at SISE House of Culture. The exhibit will run through to November 9th 2016.

Releasing 5 scarlet macaws into the wild
On the 28th of September, FCD with support from the Forest Department and the Belize Wildlife and Referral Clinic released 5 scarlet macaws into the wild. These birds described as “High at Risk of being poached” had been hand reared by the FCD staff in the Chiquibul. Macaw Conservation is financed by USDOI, ROC Taiwan Embassy and WCS.

Punta Fuego Road Show
Saturday, October 15 at 2 PM - 5 PM, Dangriga Town. Faced with challenges in life and love, a young fisherman Richie is put to the test when deceit and danger come to his idyllic home town of Punta Fuego.

Channel 7

The Strike Continues, Demonstration On Thursday
There was no school again today - and the way it looks right now, there won't be any tomorrow either! This evening, the Belize City Branch President, Kathleen Flowers, announced at the union's National Headquarters that not only will it continue tomorrow, but it extends to Thursday when there will be another nationwide Teachers Demonstration. Here's what she said: Kathleen Flowers, Belize City Branch Rep.: "Strike action continues." Kathleen Flowers, Belize City Branch Rep.: "We shall not be moved, despite what will come at us with that announcement, we will stand our ground. We are standing our ground until we get a feeling that we have a solid enough bakerup to come in, not just a feeling, but we know where the feeling will come from because we are working a process. When we get a solid enough feeling and an indication from those persons we are calling on, then we will say here is the baton, the relay continues. Because BNTU has move this stagnant ship from out the dock and its sailing up the bay on our captaining it. Gearing up for day 3. How many more days there will be? I can just tell you that on Thursday we are doing our mass countrywide demonstration. You people like demonstrate yeah."

GOB Asks Teachers to Come Back To Table
So, while the strike by the teachers continued today and will extent to at least Thursday, today the Government publicly asked them to return to the negotiating table to talk about the 3% salary adjustment. As we told you yesterday, it is given as the cause for industrial action in the notice sent to the Ministry of Education. The Government released a statement today which says, quote, "The Cabinet... is disappointed that the... (BNTU) blatantly moved the goalposts in deciding to strike, close our nation's schools, and affecting children and their parents." End quote. Calling them out on the late addition of the 3% as a reason for the strike, the Cabinet says, " The initial BNTU campaign was first declared to be centered on a good governance agenda as set out in the eight demands contained in their letter to the Prime Minister. However, the formal strike notice sent to the Chief Education Officer...did a switch and listed the 3% salary adjustment and the so-called Proposal 22 as the main reasons for the strike. Yet, the BNTU had already acknowledged that the Prime Minister has proposed a compromise on the 3%, to which the BNTU has not yet responded…" End quote.

GOB Commits To Fixed Date To Sign Anti Corruption
And that's not all from the government today, another press release says that the Government has agreed on a date to sign the United Nations Convention against Corruption. That was one of the 8 demands from the Teachers which initially justified this strike, and so Cabinet "agreed today to accept the recommendation of the Government/ Belize Chamber of Commerce & Industry Working Group… to sign the UNCAC on December 9, 2016, which is the International Day Against Corruption." Now it's a sharp change from the position PM Barrow took just 6 weeks ago on August 25th when he outlined all the exhaustive and expensive measures that will have to be implemented if he signs. For context, here is that short clip from that interview.

PSU Starts National Consultations To Decide If It Should Stand With Teachers
And will that fixed timeline for singing the convention be enough to placate the other unions? The PSU Belize City branch met this evening and the utility unions are meeting right now. The PSU meeting had about 50 public officers in attendance and it finished at about 5:45 - with most of those walking out expressing disgust with president Eldred Neal. It seemed very contentious inside and Neal told us it was lively. We asked what are the concrete actions coming out of it:... Jules Vasquez, 7News "What motions was tabled or taken to the floor at today's meeting? Which were passed and what does it mean for the PSU going forward?" Eldred Neal, President, Public Service Union: "Well we had a very spirited meeting must I say and I want to congratulate all the members who came out. The one motion that was passed, that was tabled was that the union are to render a voice..."

Hon. Elrington Provokes Teachers With Comments
So, while the teachers and the Government rift continues to open, some are especially offended by comments made by Foreign Affairs Ministry. He granted an interview over the weekend, and when he was asked for his perspective on the teachers strike - here's what he said: Hon. Wilfred Elrington, Minister of Foreign Affairs: "Union leaders are really and truly seemed to have form the view that neither the UDP nor the PUP are in fact doing what they think should be done and that they are the saviors of the country. That is not the role of a labor union. A labor has interest in looking after its constituents; the teachers. In this case teachers union should be looking after the teachers interest and those interest would include making sure that their salaries are paid and that kind of thing. But it is not my understanding that they have the remit really to take on all the issues of the country and I don't even know whether they have the wisdom or the ability or the competence to deal with those issues."

Brackett For Belcan Bridge Blaze?
Who started the Belcan Bridge Blaze? That is what police are trying to find out and today Southside Commander Chester Williams told us they have 5 persons detained and are looking for 3 others. Reports are that one of those 3 is COLA President Geovanni Bracket. Brackett denies any involvement in the fire and says that he will turn himself in tomorrow morning. Brackett sent out a press comment explaining more about this move. Brackett claims that police want another man and are holding his mother until the suspect appears.

Tyre Fires On The Hummingbird Before Dawn
And we don't know yet if Brackett and others are being investigated for two more tyre fires - which were discovered this morning around 4:00 am on the Hummingbird Highway. 7News got amateur video and out own footage to see what these looked like:.. Six flaming tyres formed a line across the highway at mile 11. In terms of tyre fire pyres, we've seen better, but, still, it must have been quite a sight for the cargo trucks drivers who commute in the pre dawn hours to find this across the road. It blocked traffic for more than half an hour and this was the scene at 4:45 am when the fire truck from Dangriga arrived and put out the fire in, ah…just about…15 seconds? The smoky sodium haze provided the end of this little scene. 6 miles north, at mile 18 it was even less dramatic where there only four tires were lined across the road, and it was over even more quickly - the fire man had no trouble - it was a one man, one hose operation.

Capital Schools Were Closed, Again
The teachers continue to stand strong on Day 2 of the strike. Last night you heard the countrywide report on the status of schools. Only a few of them were open with about a handful of students roaming around the compound. Well, today was quite the same. In Belmopan, one teacher was spotted at the Garden City Primary School with 2 students. No one else was around and all the classrooms were closed. That was the case at Our lady of Guadalupe R.C School as well…no one was in sight except for the school warden who was stationed there to turn away those uninformed parents, like this one, who still brought their kids to school. Kuxlin Ha School in Maya Mopan was also closed with a few students standing around quite confused by the sight of their empty playground.

Mixed Bag In City Schools
Today in Belize City - we also did our spot checks and found high schools like ACC and Wesley - but Primary Schools like James Garbutt and St, John's Vianney still closed - although a few teachers did show up. It was business as usual at Gwen Liz High, while All Saints Primary had a few classrooms open.

How Gwen Liz Manages
Generally high schools like Gwen Liz had better turnout of teachers and students. Yesterday, we asked the Chairman of Gwen Liz how they manage with fewer students and teachers:... Roosevelt Blades, Chairman, Gwen Liz: "Students shows up at school, our responsibility is to ensure that we have the necessary mechanisms in place to look after them and that is all that we are doing." Jules Vasquez, 7News: "So how are you all entertaining or engaging the students who are here? Are they involved in productive learning?" Roosevelt Blades, Chairman, Gwen Liz: "Yes, what we are doing is we are combining some of the classes, because you know you don't have enough students - you might have 3-4 1st forms, so you combine everybody together and then the teachers are passing on the instructions to them."

Evangelical Application for Appeal Dismiss, They Must Pay Caleb's Costs
3 weeks ago, the National Evangelical Association of Belize made much fanfare when they went to the Supreme Court to file their appeal application against Caleb Orozco's victory in the Section 53 case. Well today, that application failed, which means that they cannot be joined in the case which will take place at the Court of Appeal. That application was heard today before the Chief Justice, and Anthony Sylvestre representing NEAB made the submission before the court. The Chief Justice did not entertain the application because NEAB was not a party to the original claim. Sylvestre, who was holding brief for Dickie Bradley, asked for time to consult with Bradley, but the Chief Justice didn't want to hear what it seems was a misbegotten application, and ordered that the NEAB pay costs of 750 dollars to Caleb Orozco's attorney and the Attorney General.

Jesse Charged One Month Later
A month ago, we told you about a chopping in Ladyville, which left 2 brothers, Frank and Leroy Tejeda injured. Well, the man who police believed is their attacker has been caught, and tonight, he's behind bars. He's 21 year-old Jessie Mejia, and he was arraigned yesterday evening on the charges of attempted murder, dangerous harm, use of deadly means of harm, wounding, and aggravated assault. Due to the nature of the offences, he couldn't be granted any bail. He was remanded into custody until December 7, 2016. As we reported, the incident happened on Saturday, September 10, at around 2 p.m. The brothers were at their mother's barbeque stall across from the Lord's Bank cutoff on the Phillip Goldson Highway. Mejia, according to reports, had an old beef with the men. He got into a fight with them, and when that ended, he left. He returned with a machete, and he chopped both of them.

Who Shot Gizmo?
A man well-known to police was shot last night at the corner of Barrack Road and Victoria Street. 31 year old Gion Bernard better known as "Gizmo" was standing in front of his house around 5:00 when a man rode by on a bicycle and shot him several times. Bernard was rushed to the KHMH and is being treated. Police have detained 2 men in connection with this shooting. Bernard has been in the news countless times. He has been charged with attempted murder, with robbery dating back to 2008, he was also charged with rape in 2011 and the list of offences go on.

Copperbank Conch Fishers Plead Not Guilty
Last night we told you about several hundred conch that were confiscated from fishermen over the weekend. Today, one of those fishermen, Benigno Cob, from Copper Bank in the Corozal district, appeared in court. Cob pled not guilty to the charge of possession of 314 out of season conch, stating that the conch the Coast Guard and Fisheries Department found were about thirty yards away from his boat when he was searched. The cook of the boat, Felix Copo, who was present when Cob was arrested, stated in court that Cob was wrongfully charged. He also suggested that the authorities were known to take bribes.

When A Magazine Is An Experience
Destination Belize is the country's leading travel magazine and has been distributed both locally and internationally in its seventeen issue run. It's designed as a kind of handbook and orientation for tourists who find it in their hotel rooms and at embassies and travel agencies throughout the world. Today, the newest edition of the publication was unveiled, but this time, it's more than just a magazine. We spoke to Tanya Mcnab, of Mcnab Publishing Ltd, and Einer Gomez, Chairman of the Belize Tourism Board, about the new features the lift it off the paper... This edition of Destination Belize is special because it is being printed with two different covers. Some magazines will feature the ATM Caves on the cover, while others will have a shot taken at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve near Ambergris Caye. The Destination Belize app is also currently available on the Apple App Store and the Google Play store.

Around The World On A Bicycle
Since 2009 Chinese cyclist, Likun Lai, has made it his mission to fulfill his childhood dream and travel to around the world on his bike. He has gained a lot of attention throughout the years, from the media and the global Chinese community, and has inspired many. One of those people is Hui Zhang, who joined Lai in 2014, after he gave a speech at her university. Since he started, Lai has travelled to over 55 countries, in Asia, Europe and Oceana. Now he and Zhang are on their tour of the Americas, and have already travelled through Canada, the US and Mexico. They stopped in Belize earlier today and told us a little about how their incredible journey is possible...

Students Support Teachers In OW
While the teachers are striking for what they think is right, they've gotten many pledges of support - including quite a few form kids who are happy for the break form school. But others are full of passionate intensity for their teachers' cause - and so it is at Muffles Junior College in Orange Walk where yesterday about 50 students took to the streets to show their support for their teachers, and to protest against corruption. Here's how they put it:... Muffles Junior College Student: "Yeah we're protesting for the teacher, and hoping that the government reaches a compromise decision that could affect us and the teachers as well. So the more teachers fight for, the more us students will want to fight for, because at the end of the day we also get affected too." Muffles Junior College Student: "Why this protest is very important for us students now to stand along with our teachers. Our teachers of Belize. It is a national issue, we are standing up for us the students. Not only the students but the country. So it is now time for us the students, in support of the teachers against corruption, corruption in a whole, government corruption, no violence, all these murders going on. So it is time for us the student to now show our support to the teachers and our country Belize."

No So, Luke Says GOB
Earlier in the news, you heard BNTU President Luke Palacio say that Government could sign the UN Convention Against Corruption today if they wanted to. Well tow senior government sources who have been in those meetings with the Chamber says Palacio is setting the record all wrong. They say the proposed date for signing which is December 9th, 2016 was suggested by the Chamber of Commerce. We'll try and confirm tomorrow.

Joy At The Bank
We reported it last week and it was confirmed today that the Governor General has formally appointed Joy Grant has as Governor of the Central Bank of Belize. She took office earlier this week - in a sudden transition from Glen Ysaguirre - who had been there since 2008. Ysaguirre who was a career banker gives over to Grant - who is known primarily as a conservationist. The press release stresses that Grant holds a MBA in International Finance from the University of Alberta, Canada and, quote, "has extensive experience in commercial and development banking, including experience in foreign trade, credit analysis, project supervision, and financial analysis. She was instrumental in the establishment of the National Bank of Belize which was planned, operationalized, and has expanded its services to Belizeans under her leadership." End quote.

Channel 5

B.N.T.U. Extends Strike Action for 2 Days
The Belize National Teachers Union is stepping up its Stand Up for Belize Campaign and a nationwide successful strike organized by the Belize National Teachers’ Union beginning on Monday will [...]

Countrywide Demonstration by Teachers on Thursday
It is not known what the union has in place for this Friday, but as we said, there will be two more days of industrial action by the teachers bringing [...]

Teachers Thank Catholic Bishop for Support
As the situation continues to develop, the B.N.T.U. wrote to the Bishop Dorrick Wright of the Roman Catholic Church. In a release issued today, the Council of Management and Membership [...]

Education Minister says Government Did Not Break Off Talks with Union
Cabinet met today in Belmopan and out of that sitting, a release was issued asking the unions to suspend the strike and return to the negotiating table. But first, G.O.B. [...]

B.N.T.U.’s Palacio Insists G.O.B. Must Make Concessions for Deferred Salary Adjustment
On Monday, B.N.T.U. national president Luke Palacio offered further clarification on the matter of the salary adjustment, which the Government has homed in on as being ignored or set aside [...]

B.N.T.U. says G.O.B. Has Not Responded to Their Eight-Point Agenda
At today’s B.N.T.U. meeting, at the top of the discussion was the release sent out by the Government. President of the Belize District Branch Kathleen Flowers told the teachers that [...]

Education Minister Maintains Ministry Will Support School Managers to Keep Schools Open
It’s day-two and the B.N.T.U. has already announced that it will continue on to a third consecutive day of industrial action to be followed by a national demonstration. But even [...]

Replacement Teachers Must Be Qualified Under New S.I., Says Faber
And that statutory instrument which paves the way for the appointment of replacement teachers has also been the source of contention for the B.N.T.U.  It is felt that those teachers [...]

Government Plans Signing U.N. Anti-Corruption Convention in December
After years of resisting, the G.O.B. recently agreed to sign the United Nations Convention Against Corruption. Prime Minister Dean Barrow did so at a recent meeting with the Belize Chamber [...]

P.S.U.’s Belize Branch Meets; Will They Support Teachers?
Will the Public Service Union join the Teachers’ Union in solidarity and possibly on the streets? That is the subject of consultations which began this afternoon at the P.S.U.’s headquarters, [...]

Public Officers Given Explanation on Salary Deferral But No Decisions Taken
On the matter of the salary adjustment, which the P.S.U. has voted to defer, and Proposal twenty-two relating to pensions for non-teaching staff, Neal explained that time was spent clarifying [...]

Public Officers Countrywide Invited to Give Views on Issues at Coming Meetings
P.S.U. President Eldred Neal advised both unionists and public officers who were not members to attend the coming meetings so that their views can be heard and taken into account. [...]

Do You Support Prolonged Strike by the B.N.T.U.?
And tonight’s question is: Do you support prolonged strike by the B.N.T.U. until their demands are met? Send your comments and responses using your SMART phones to 8686 or post [...]

COLA’s Geovannie Brackett Sought in Belcan Fire Investigation; 5 Others Detained
On Monday afternoon, a tire fire erupted on BelCan Bridge in the city in the height of the rush hour, disrupting the flow of traffic. This morning at around four [...]

C.E.O. of Corozal Free Zone Out
We can confirm tonight of a major change at the Commercial Free Zone in the north. On Monday, the Free Zone announced it was investing over two million dollars in [...]

Joy Grant Leaves F.I.U. for Central Bank as Governor
Another major change is at the Central Bank of Belize. We reported back on August first, that Ambassador Joy Grant was moving up from the Financial Intelligence Unit to the [...]

Faber Scorns Strike Success and Why Edward P. Yorke High School Kept Its Doors Open
Back to the strike…The B.N.T.U. claimed considerable success on Monday with their planned industrial action, so much so that they extended it into a second day, today. However, some schools [...]

Minister of Education Addresses Meeting on Curriculum Reform
Before heading out to cabinet today, the Minister of Education Patrick Faber, addressed educators on the issue of curriculum reform. Faber says the current programs are outdated and need adjustment [...]

New Destination Belize Magazine Released
Destination Belize is moving on up in the online world. At the unveiling of the country’s main tourism promotional publication, it was announced that the magazine is now complemented with [...]

Bartenders and Wait Staff Complete Training
More than twenty trainees received certificates in wait staff and bartender training from the Belize Training and Employment Centre in Belize City.  The Wait Staff Training was geared towards those [...]

Parents Freed of Charge over Unsupervised Minor
Thirty-one year old Stephanie Ortiz, and her common-law husband, forty-one year old Solomon Francis Alvarez were taken to court late on Monday afternoon to answer to a very unusual charge [...]

Hattieville Man Reaches Out for Help with Surgery
Forty-five year old Sheldon Dennison of Hattieville Village is asking for your help. Dennison says he needs an urgent surgery, but he simply can’t afford it. He got injured on [...]

Ocean Heroes Janet Gibson and Wil Maheia Honoured by OCEANA
OCEANA has two new Ocean Heroes. Since 2012, every year, OCEANA Belize selects Belizeans to honor as Ocean Heroes. The winners are those who accomplish tremendous work in ocean conservation, [...]

CTV3

Teachers Extends Strike Action Until Thursday
As day two of the planned strike action being carried out by the Belize National Teachers Union in pursue of better governance in Belize, came to an end, it was announced that the strike continues into day three and day four. This announcement came following a meeting held today at the BNTU headquarters in Belize City with the executive members of the union. Kathleen Flowers - General Secretary Belize National Teacher’s Union: “The word out now is that the strike now continues, so we are gearing up for day three, how many more days there will be, I can just tell you that on Thursday we are doing our country mass demonstration, you guys like to demonstrate right, and as we speak there are people working the machinery to make sure that that demonstration can be done within the legal parameters and frameworks of this country and we have elements of the public relation team preparing to get the word out because we are calling on every breathing living person we know and are friends with; parents, children, tertiary institution, students, grandma, grandpa, and their best cousin, everybody come out with us on Thursday because we are going to be doing a continue demonstration so that kind of gives you a little insight.”

MOE Not Convinced About Strikes Success
The BNTU has indicated that their national strike has been a resounding success. Yesterday the Union reported that over 90% of schools were closed, and that the majority of their teachers stayed out of the classroom. Today, it was pretty much the same. But the Minister of Education Hon. Patrick Faber isn’t convinced that the Union’s numbers are true. He told the media that the Unions were looking at the numbers instead of the impact of their actions. Honorable Patrick Faber - Minister of Education: “While I don’t wish to pick a fight what you heard yesterday was the report and very vague reporting coming from officials from the Union who you would expect to say there was this kind of success, in fact, I believe that the numbers of teachers and the number of schools that remain open particularly in the urban areas yesterday would proof the BNTU his numbers to be false...”

MOE Ready To Replace Teachers On Strike
Minister Faber also addressed the possibility of the Unions strike to be extended to the rest of the week or beyond. Last week he announced that the Ministry has made preparations and that he would sign a Statutory Instrument to adjust the scope under which special licenses could be issued. This is to be able to give replacement teachers the authority to teach. The BNTU has taken this measure as a direct threat, and today the Minister reiterated that it is the course they will take. Honorable Patrick Faber - Minister of Education: “We have said already what our proposal is, and please understand I heard Mr. Palacio misquoting me yesterday again to say that the minister is saying that it is his ministry that it is responsible to put in place contingency plans in the schools...”

Criminals Target Chinese Establishment
Forty six year old Belizean Chinese businessman, Jian Hua Tan is lucky to be alive tonight after he was assaulted by two male individuals yesterday at his business establishment Diamonds Supermarket located in Trial Farm Village Orange Walk District. Reports indicate that sometime around 6:00 in the evening two males, one of Hispanic descent and the other of creole descent entered the store in an attempt to rob from the establishment. The man of creole descent reportedly grabbed Tan from behind and placed a knife to his chest while he demanded money. The individual then allegedly pushed Tan to the ground and robbed him of his wallet which contained his Social Security Card, Driver’s license, one hundred US dollars, four $50 Belize dollar notes, twenty five $2 US notes, $3,000 Hong Kong currency, $500 in Chinese currency and a $50 King George coin. The robber then proceeded to search Tan’s front pockets and robbed him of four $50 Belize dollar notes. And while all of this was happening the second robber reportedly jumped over the counter and stole a total of $200 Belize dollars from the cash register. Both men then rode off on bicycles making good their escape as they headed towards the Trial Farm Football field.

Raul Rosado Resigns As Chief Executive Officer Of CFZ
There is a major shake-up at the Commercial Free Zone in Corozal to report tonight. We have confirmed from multiple reliable sources that Chief Executive Officer and a ranking UDP member and financier in the north, Raul Rosado Sr., who is related to former Deputy Prime Minister Gaspar Vega, has resigned from his post. There have been multiple reports as to what led to the sudden resignation, none which we have confirmed, therefore, we can only report tonight that Rosado is no longer the Free Zone’s head honcho. We attempted to get comment from Free Zone officials today, but no one was available for comment. The Free Zone has for a very long time operated with very little transparency, even as a heavy cloud of notoriety hangs over it.

LOVE FM

Burning Tires on the Highways in the South
Love News has confirmed that five persons were arrested and police are looking for three more in connection with the Belcan Bridge tire-burning episode that occurred between four and five o’clock. Traffic was diverted for about an hour as fire officials and police cordoned off the area to douse the flames. In the wee hours […]

Another 2 Days of Industrial Strike by BNTU
The strike continues into its third day tomorrow. The Belize National Teachers Union has decided to extend its industrial action to two more days. Tomorrow, members of the BNTU will take to the streets campaigning and educating Belizeans of their cause. And on Thursday, teachers along with supporters will launch a nationwide mass demonstration. This […]

BNTU Says Government Is Flip-Flopping; GOB Says It’s the BNTU
And while the teachers will strike again tomorrow, Government Ministers say it’s time to return to the negotiating table. Today a release was sent out in which in which the Government expressed its disappointment with the Belize National Teachers Union for striking, closing schools and affecting children and parents. The Government’s release says quote, “The […]

Belize to Sign Anti Corruption Convention on December 9, 2016
Today Cabinet met in Belmopan and two releases were issued out. One of those releases deals with Cabinet’s agreement to accept the recommendation of the Government and the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry Working Group on the Implementation of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC). Government has proposed to sign the UNCAC on […]

Deputy Prime Minister Says Proposal #22 Would Crash the Government
Last week the President of the Belize National Teachers Union, Luke Palacio told the media that the industrial action has nothing to do with the three percent salary increase which Government had asked to be deferred until 2017. Palacio says the strike was based on good governance and the demands made to the Prime Minister. […]

3% Negotiations are Up to the Prime Minister
With the Government calling the unions to come back to the negotiating table and with the union writing and demanding their three percent, Education Minister weighed in on the issue of the salary increase, reiterating that the decision is entirely up to the Prime Minister and not the Ministry of Education. PATRICK FABER “On the […]

Guatemalan Convicted for Rape in Southern Belize
A Guatemalan man was convicted of rape. Correspondent Harry Arzu reports. HARRY ARZU “A Guatemalan national by the name of Mario Salam has been convicted yesterday on three counts of rape in the Southern session of the Supreme Court here in Dangriga. This stems in a report in 2014 that was made against Salam by […]

Gion Bernard in ICU Following Shooting Incident
Authorities on the north side of Belize City are investigating a shooting incident that occurred at around five o’clock yesterday evening on Barrack Road. The shooting has left 31-year-old, Gion Bernard in the ICU at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City. Reports reaching Love News are that Bernard was standing on Barrack Road […]

17th Destination Belize Tourism Magazine Launched
The Belize Tourism Industry Association unveiled its seventeenth Destination Belize Magazine today. President of the BTIA Osmany Salas tells us about the magazine and the contributions made for its publishing. OSMANY SALAS ” Even though online technology is becoming the new platform for advertisements, Salas says that having a print magazine is still very important […]

NEMO Prepares to Hand Over New Homes to Hurricane Victims
Two months after Hurricane Earl made landfall in Belize, the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) is continuing its rebuilding efforts. Minister in charge of NEMO, Edmond Castro met with the organization to assess the progress of recovery. Rebuilding efforts included construction of homes and provision of materials such as lumber and zinc needed for repairs […]

Amandala

Cops stake out KREMANDALA compound
By 10 this morning, several teachers had gathered outside the KREMANDALA compound on Partridge Street in support of their president, Luke Palacio, president of the Belize National Teachers Union, as he spoke to the media about the ongoing industrial action against the government for refusing to accede to eight proposals as a part of “It’s not about the 3 [per cent salary increase]; it’s about the country” campaign. Palacio and his teachers, however, were shadowed by at least four police officers who took up positions on the opposite sidewalk, across the street from the compound. The presence of the police was perplexing, because the BNTU members numbered about six people, and there was no violence, or threat of violence coming from the teachers. The Police Department later released a statement confirming that police officers had been deployed at various schools to protect teachers and students who had shown up during today’s protest.

Elrington thinks teachers “too stupid” to deal with national issues
The Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU), which launched a successful industrial action against the Government of Belize today, after negotiations on its eight-point demand failed, came in for some critical remarks from Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon. Wilfred “Sedi” Elrington. KREM’s News Director Marisol Amaya and other media representatives interviewed Minister Elrington when he was leaving a United Democratic Party Council Meeting at the party’s headquarters on Saturday. Amaya asked Elrington if it is his sense that his party is in trouble, given the support for the BNTU that came from the Chamber of Commerce yesterday, Friday. Elrington replied, “No, no, I think there is a misconception, really. In any democratic country, strikes are a given … there are strikes almost every week.”

Confusion in Lord Ridge: Debbie Humes buried in wrong grave
Even in death, popular Carnival dancer, a reveler of Soca Moca Carnival Band, Debbie Humes, 39, of Mayflower Street, the mother of three children, is not resting in peace. She was buried in the wrong grave at the Lord Ridge Cemetery last Saturday, said her family. Humes was killed at about 5:50 Friday, September 16, when the house, which was the headquarters of the Soca Moca on Dolphin Street collapsed and fell on her and some other carnival members. Humes was crushed, and died due to massive injuries to her internal organs. Her aunt told us that since her burial last Saturday, she came to them in dream, saying she was not content and was not resting.

BNTU strike a success; strike continues Tuesday
Today marked the start of a new academic week, but school buses rolled into Belize City almost empty, to deliver students, in most cases, to empty or closed school facilities. It appeared that most teachers and parents had responded to the battle call of the Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU,) who on Thursday had announced that they would have engaged in industrial action today, Monday, because government had not favorably responded to their 8-point agenda for improved governance. When Amandala visited secondary schools like Sadie Vernon Technical, no teacher had arrived, while Maud Williams and Excelsior High, also on the southside, recorded only a handful of students and teachers. Twenty-two of forty teachers, and ninety-eight of six hundred students showed up for classes at Gwen Lizarraga High School, located in the constituency of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Patrick Faber. All the Roman Catholic secondary schools, such as Saint John’s College (SJC), Pallotti and Saint Catherine’s Academy (SCA), had closed their doors.

Barrow gets his way in Senate through Church pastor, Ashley Rocke
Senator Pastor Ashley Rocke, representing the Churches but selected only by the Belize Association of Evangelical Churches, led by Pastor Howell Longsworth, is again in hot water and again it is because of his actions in the Senate. At the last Senate meeting on August 31, the Opposition People’s United Party tabled a motion to have a Senate select committee investigate the findings of the controversial Auditor General’s Special Report into Belize’s Passport, Visa and Nationality Departments. However, that motion was “knifed” in a vote of 5 in favor and 7 against after Rocke, who had initially sided with the PUP’s motion, later abandoned his position when Leader of Government Business in the Senate, Godwin Hulse, proposed that a bi-cameral joint select committee instead lead the investigations.

Protesters (not BNTU) burn tires on BelCan Bridge
On April 20, 2005, the BelCan Bridge recorded a dramatic clash between police officers and supporters of the then Opposition United Democratic Party (UDP), joined by university students. That clash was a part of a sustained campaign against the administration of former Prime Minister, Said Musa, which had allegedly engaged in massive corruption. Eleven years, five months and three days later, BelCan Bridge would again record another clash between civilians and the state. However, this time it would be against the ruling United Democratic Party (UDP) government, under pressure by the Belize National Teachers’ Union, which is engaging in continued industrial action until government favorably responds to its 8-point demands for better governance.

3 shutouts and a draw; 2 teams still undefeated at Week 8 of PLB Opening Season
There were 3 shutouts over the weekend in Week 8 of the Premier League of Belize (PLB) Opening Season 2016-2017, and the other game was a 1-1 draw. When the dust settled, red cards and all, FC Belize is still undefeated, as is league leading and defending champion, Belmopan Bandits. In the only Saturday night game this past weekend, it was home standing Belmopan Bandits with the 2-0 win over Verdes FC at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium, both goals coming from Brazilian striker Aloisio Teixiera (33’ & 71’ PK). In one of the 3 games on Sunday, FC Belize came back from a 1-nil deficit to clinch the 1-1 draw with host BDF FC, despite FC Belize playing the last half hour a man short due to a red card ejection. A defensive error in clearing the ball gave BDF striker Michael Myvette a clear opportunity inside the FC Belize eighteen, and he promptly blasted it past FC Belize goalie Rodrigo Ibarra from close range at the 41st minute.

Brothers HABET Table Tennis Team League Round 3 results
The 2016 8th Annual brothers HABET Table Tennis Team League continued this past weekend, Saturday, October 1, with Round 3 of preliminary stages of the tournament at the Belize Elementary Auditorium. Below are the results: 1st Division – Racqueteers defeated SJC Wildcats, 3-1; The Prodigies def. Ping Pang, 3-1. 2nd Division – Bismark def. Strikers, 3-1. 3rd Division – C-Ray def. T3, 3-1; Ace def. Thunders, 3-1.

Sugar City Hoops Week 5 results
The Sugar City Hoops Basketball Tournament/Season continued with Week 5 games on Friday, September 30, at the Orange Walk Multi-Purpose Complex. In the opener, (17 & Under) East Coast Ballerz won, 53-38, over Muffles Bobcats. East Coast Ballerz was led by Norris Fisher 23 pts 10 rebs, and Kristan Puerto 13 pts 18 rebs; while for Muffles Bobcats, CJ Vasquez had 19 pts 6 rebs, and Kristian Cabrera 7 pts 13 rebs. And in the nightcap, (25 & Under) it was One Love, 71-48, over Devils. Leading One Love were Jerry Vasquez 22 pts, and Tyrone Baptist 14 pts 10 rebs; while Devils had Vicente Avila with 19 pts 7 rebs, and Bryton Rowley 10 pts 9 rebs.

Belize vs Honduras in International Friendly on Saturday at FFB Stadium
The Football Federation of Belize (FFB) informs the public that the Belize National “A” Team will be playing an International Friendly match against Honduras National “A” Team on Saturday, October 8, at 4:00 p.m. at the FFB Stadium in Belmopan. The following players have been selected to represent Belize: Goalkeeper – Woodrow West (International), Shane Orio (Bandits), Usef Guerra (Verdes). Defense – Dalton Eiley (Placencia), Jose Tinoco (Police), Tyrone Pandy (Bandits), Trevor Lennen (Police), Elroy Smith (Bandits), Ian Gaynair (Bandits), Jaron Myvette (Verdes).

Editorial: Sick and tired of being sick and tired …
Last September, when Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Dean Barrow announced two months before the general elections that he had reached a compromise with Ashcroft, the Government paid an initial deposit of 72 cents US currency per share, amounting to $65 million. The matter was then left to a foreign arbitration panel to resolve after the companies invoked the UK Investment Treaty, to which Belize is a party. That panel handed down its decision on June 28, and the Government of Belize was given 10 business days to come up with the second tranche of payments, which it did by the specified date on July 13, paying $29.5 million in US dollars and $134.9 million in Belize dollars in compensation, plus $27,000 British pounds in legal fees and 33,000 Euros in arbitration costs. However, the Ashcroft group demanded that the portion paid in BZ dollars should be paid in US dollars instead.

http://amandala.com.bz/news/publisher-317/
As I’m watching the Weather Channel reports on Hurricane Matthew this Sunday morning pre-dawn, I’m thinking a couple things. One is that the meteorological science is much advanced. Matthew got big early in its move westward from the distant eastern Caribbean, so that we Belizeans could watch the formation and growth of this monster when it was at least a week away from us. With the memoires of Category I Earl’s devastations from two months ago still fresh in our minds, there were a couple mature Belizean ladies I spoke to who were very worried. There were days when it appeared on the television screen that Matthew was headed towards Belize. As I’m writing, however, the storm has begun the northward turn which had been so confidently predicted by the weather scientists, after first slowing down.

Maybe if “the elites” went on a diet of Ramen Noodles …
Dear Editor, Although it likes to call itself “The Jewel,” to be completely candid (tourism might suffer a bit) I propose we re-brand the country to be “The Empire of Debt and Illusions.” Elections in Belize are always the same, with the parties (Let’s Party!) taking turns at the money trough. Red? Blue? Neither party has shown an interest in anything but GREEN— the color of their pocket-linings… the color of U.S. dollars. Jeez! What’s a poor boy to do? Well, for one, I’d put the Bibles aside for a little while and focus my attention on more secular matters, such as the rampant graft pauperizing the country and the total UNACCEPTABILITY of political power without ACCOUNTABILITY. You’re wrong if you think you cannot contribute towards the meaningful changes necessary for a better life in Belize.

Breaking Belize News

Child dies in Belize City fire
Reports reaching BBN is that a child has perished and died in a fire in Belize City tonight. The blaze occurred on Aloe Vera street in the Saint Martins area of Belize City. The child is a student of Stella Maris School. […]

President of COLA wanted for burning of tires on Belcan bridge
The President of Citizens Organized for Liberty through Action (COLA) Geovanni Bracket posted on social media that he heard that he was wanted for the fire lit on the Belcan bridge yesterday. He said that he, Perry Smith and four other young men will […]

BPP responds to Government on announcement of signing the UNCAC
The Belize Progressive Party (BPP) issued a release today stating that it recognizes Government’s announcement of its intent to sign the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC), on 9th December 2016, as being a long overdue determination. The BPP says they are informing Belizeans […]

Minister Castro assesses progress of Hurricane Earl recovery
Minister of State for National Emergency Management Edmond Castro has met with National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) co-ordinators in Rural Belize District to assess the progress of the recovery and rebuilding efforts for victims of Hurricane Earl, which made landfall in Belize exactly two months […]

Serious road traffic accident in San Ignacio
A road traffic accident happened a short while ago in San Ignacio Town. The accident happened on Teodocio Ochoa Street and one of the victims has been identified as Michael Preston, owner of Midas Resort. Preston was driving a red vehicle when he collided […]

BNTU extends strike to Thursday
The Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) have announced plans to continue its strike into Wednesday and Thursday. The union’s executive council met this afternoon and decided that tomorrow teachers will go out into towns to hand out info sheets to parents to inform the […]

Florentina Choco: Belize’s first indigenous solar engineer
The GEF Small Grant programme implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)–Belize has inaugurated the Santa Teresa Solar Project. The project grant of $100,000 was approved by the National Steering Committee of the GEF SGP on 28th February 2015 to Plenty International Belize Limited, […]

Belize Cabinet Calls for a Return to the Negotiating Table
The Cabinet of Belize has issued a press release regarding the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) strike. According to the release, Cabinet is disappointed that the BNTU blatantly moved the goalposts in deciding to strike and closing the nation’s schools as it affects both the […]

Drug bust in San Pedro
Authorities in San Pedro Town have arrested a man for drug trafficking. According to reports, Edward Amador, a mechanic of the DFC area in San Pedro was in possession of a shoe box and when police opened it, it contained 950 grams of cannabis. […]

Lord Ashcroft ‘to donate to Conservative Party again’
Lord Micheal Ashcroft, the former British conservative party treasurer told BBC news that he is considering giving money to the party again. Lord Ashcroft, who co-authored a controversial book on former Prime Minister David Cameron, said that he would be donating through the Leader’s […]

Belize Teachers Call Us To Reason
As the teachers enter their second day of industrial action, insisting that their just demands be met, the rest of Belize is called to reason. Belize has enough resources for ALL the people to live a relatively high standard of living in safety and […]

DFC Expo highlight Impact on Belize’s Economy
The Development Finance Corporation (DFC) hosted its first Productive Sector EXPO at the ITVET courtyard in Belize City this past weekend. It was held on Saturday October 1st. The expo featured a cross spectrum of DFC clients; from small-micro sector enterprises to larger productive sector […]

Muffles Junior College students support BNTU
The students of Muffles junior college held a protest yesterday expressing their support for their teachers. They expressed that they are part of their fight to save Belize. The youths told CTV3 news that “…in order for us to raise the standards in our […]

Villagers close down the Santa Familia Primary School in Cayo
Reports reaching our newsroom are that villagers in San Familia, Cayo have closed down the Santa Familia Primary School. Police have been dispatched to Santa Familia Village where villagers are gathering at the school. This is a developing story. Save © 2016, www.breakingbelizenews.com. This […]

Man shot in the face in San Pedro Town
A shooting happened in San Pedro Town early Monday morning. Police investigation reveals that the victim Wade Allen, 32, was at his home with his common-law wife when around 12:40 a.m., he heard a knock on his door and when he opened it, an […]

Blogs

The Savvy Travel Secrets Our Editors Use to Save Money
International Living editors and correspondents are constantly on the road seeking out the best-value retirement havens. All that travel means they’re pretty savvy when it comes to getting the best deals and saving money while on the road. I’ve persuaded them to share some of their top tips. These are the strategies they use every time they go on the road…tried, tested, and proven to get you the best deals and ensure you make the most of your travels, whether you’re scouting out a location for your new life overseas, heading off on vacation, or exploring your new country. With so many websites and airlines, booking flights can seem like a daunting prospect. Tamarindo Correspondent Jackie Minchillo says she uses Google Flights when looking for the best airfares. “Instead of sticking with one airline and collecting miles, I always book the cheapest flight on whatever airline I find, and use a general credit card whose points can be put toward any airline,” she says. “One credit card with a great travel rewards program and no foreign transaction fees is the Starwood Preferred Guest Amex card.”

Time to eat some Conch!
Are you ready to devour some delicious conch dishes? You better be! The 2016-2017 Queen Conch Fishing season officially opened on Saturday, October 1st and kitchens across the country are already dishing out some classic conch dishes. From the classic ceviche… To a ‘good for the back’ conch soup… And lets not forget some tasty conch fritters! In Belize the Queen Conch Fishing season run from October 1st to June 24th. Restaurateurs and the general public are advised to use, consume and dispose of all Queen Conch meat in their possession before the season closes.

International Sources

Ramon's Village Resort: San Pedro, Belize
Inspired by the South Pacific island of Bora Bora, this self-contained sanctuary on Ambergris Caye has its own white-sand beach, dive centre and spa. Stay in breezy, thatched-roof cabanas among tropical gardens and swaying coconut palms in this Polynesian-style paradise off the coast of Belize." The resort sits on the edge of San Pedro, the main town on Ambergris Caye, or ‘La Isla Bonita’ after Madonna ‘dreamt of San Pedro’ in the song of the same name. It’s a 10-minute walk to San Pedro’s shops, restaurants and bars, and even less to its tiny airport where Tropic Air flights connect to the mainland in 15 minutes. While San Pedro is walkable, hiring golf carts is a fun and quick way to get about. The waters of Hol Chan Marine Reserve offer excellent diving and snorkelling, or head north to Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve and the coastal Mayan sites. The tropical Polynesian vibe works well, given this is a Belizean island in the Caribbean. Cool, thatched cabanas in lush green gardens filled with colourful bougainvillea, lilies and hibiscus, and beach location create an almost-instant feeling of relaxation. Since the 1980s, the hotel has been managed by Ramon Nunez, a San Pedro native and Belize’s first certified scuba diver; he once guided Jacque Cousteau. Spot him at breakfast and ask for a story.

The Strange Reappearance of the Once-Vanished Green Sea Turtle
The morning was dusky, sunrise nearly an hour off, when Frank Burchall pulled out of his driveway on Bermuda’s east end, his granddaughter Mimi beside him, and headed for work in the languid seaside port of St. George’s. Burchall’s route took him along Barry Road, a single-lane coastal track that wends between pastel houses on one side and the cerulean Caribbean on the other. Daylight began to bleed into the dim world. And then, in his headlights, Burchall saw the wanderer. His first thought was that the diminutive creature waddling across the road on August 16, 2015, was a freshwater turtle—maybe a terrapin or a slider. But when he picked up the reptile, he realized it was something different. Something with flippers. Burchall put the errant sea turtle—which Mimi named, predictably, Mimi—into a pot and drove south to the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo, where the captive was installed in a quarantined tank and entrusted to an aquarist named Ryan Tacklin. The caretaker inspected the turtle with growing excitement: its blue-gray carapace was just a thumb’s-length wide, and a faint, belly-button-like scar, where the creature had recently been connected to its egg, creased its plastron. “It was obvious that it had hatched within the last few hours,” Tacklin recalls.

Videos

October 4, 2016

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

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, Rise and Shine Morning Show, and the Dickie Bradley Specials

The San Pedro Sun

BNTU proceeds with national strike
Hundreds of students are at home today in San Pedro Town, as the Roman Catholic Primary School and the San Pedro High School officially called off classes due to the industrial action strike planned by the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU). About 20 teachers from San Pedro Town and around five from Caye Caulker travelled to Belize City this morning, where they joined the thousands of other teachers in a protest against the Government of Belize (GOB). Some of the major demands from the group to GOB include good governance practices, transparency and an adjustment of 3% in their salaries, which according to them, has been delayed for too long. The Union has garnered major support from social partners and concerned Belizeans countrywide. A meeting was held today, Monday, October 3rd in Belize at 1:30PM, where BNTU discussed with its members if the strike will continue for the rest of the week.

Ambergris Today

$2.5Mil Contract Signed for Infrastructural Improvements at Corozal Free Zone
On Friday, September 30, 2016, the Corozal Free Zone signed a contract to invest $2.5 million in infrastructure works. The project was designed by Young’s Engineering Consultancy Ltd. It includes the installation of storm water drain, sidewalks, parking areas, roundabout, pedestrian ramps; complete resurfacing with hotmix of the main thoroughfare known as “Freedom Avenue”, traffic signs and traffic markings. It also includes drains to alleviate the water that settles in front of the Las Vegas Hotel and Casino.

Oceana Announces Belize’s 2016 Ocean Hero Award Winners
On Saturday, October 1st, Oceana formally recognized two Belizeans as the 2016 Ocean Heroes. They are biologist/zoologist Janet Gibson and activist Wil Maheia. In her forty year (and counting) career, biologist and zoologist Janet Gibson has played an influential role in just about every marine conservation strategy or resource management strategy developed in Belize. Gibson was also a driving force in securing reserve status for two marine protected areas: Belize’s first marine reserve, the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and the Glover’s Reef Atoll, one of Belize’s three atolls. She was also a key member of the Belizean team that worked to have seven sites within the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System declared World Heritage Sites.

Bronze for Belize at Men’s Volleyball World Championship Qualifications
Belize finished third at the AFECAVOL Men’s FIVB World Championship qualification tournament after winning to Honduras 3-0 (25-16, 26-24, 25-15) at St. Catherine Academy Center of Belize City. Belize finishes with a 16 year drought of not reaching the podium in a major event. A festive crowd packed the SCA Center to watch Belize fire-up against Honduras with an exciting victory. Belize finished the event with 4-2 win-loss record, 18 points and third place. Honduras ended with 1-5, 8 points and sixth position. Belize had and impressive 11-4 blocking margin stopping Honduras intentions in keeping the ball on their side of the court. Belize also held advantage in kills (38-30) and in serves (4-1), they scored on 23 opponent errors and committed 20 of their own.

Vivian Noralez Crowned Miss Petite Teen Earth at Miss Teen Earth Intl.
Eighteen-year-old, Vivian Noralez was chosen as the first representative of Belize for Miss Teen Earth International that took place in Panama City this past weekend, Saturday, October 1, 2016. Four crowns were up for grabs at the Miss Teen Earth of which Vivian nabbed the Miss Petite Teen Earth title. The main title of Miss Teen Earth 2016 was taken by Miss USA, but with all her preparation and dedication, Vivian was able to proudly represent her country. Her work as reigning Miss Teen Earth Belize was focused on water contamination after the hurricane. The pageant’s areas of international competition include reforestation, national costume, interview with judges, opening, swimsuit, evening gown and on-stage question.

Misc Belizean Sources

BELIZE FISHING REPORT: September 25th – October 1st, 2016
The Woodlands, TX Orvis store organizes a trip every fall and this year’s trip was a big success with 12 boats going out every day. Our heartfelt thanks go to Noble and Jose who as hosts of the trip made everyone happy. Somehow they even got the weather to cooperate.

First Friday of October Roadside and Beach Trash Pick Up
Friday, October 7 at 9 AM - 11 AM, Tres Cocos San Pedro. Please join us, along with our friends at Grand Caribe Belize, for our next monthly trash pickup on Friday, October 7th! We meet at the Paradise Theatre, just north of the bridge at 9 am. We provide bags, gloves, trash pickers and water (and even tasty treats and refreshments at the end courtesy of Marbucks Coffee House!) - all that's missing is you!

The presentation of the new Destination Belize
Tuesday October 4, 2016! Radisson Fort George Hotel 10am

Belize's Wonder Women! Senior Pastor Antonette J. Young
It all began with self-determination, values, self-worth and persistent. Mrs. Young knew at a very young age she had a special calling. Migrated to Chicago, Il. at a very young age (17) and resided there for 29 years. During her time in Chicago she was privileged to pursue her career in the medical field as a certified medical assistant and a medical laboratory technologist. She worked at a medical lab as Manager and Clinic Coordinator. In 2000 she moved back to Belize as a Volunteer Missionary to reach people in need. She is the founder and director of Parents Against Drunk Drivers, J & A AIDS a Foundation and Papi's Practical Rehabilitation Program in Orange Walk Town.

Coming Soon: New Exhibition at San Pedro House of Culture
The exhibition entitled “Celebrating the Heritage of Maya Resistance” tells the story of 400 years of Maya resistance to foreign attacks on their culture, lands, and beliefs. When the Spaniards conquered the Yucatan, the Maya fiercely resisted being dominated. In 1847 the Caste War broke out and lasted over 50 years, wiping out close to a third of the population. The Caste War was the largest and most successful of a series of Maya rebellions against oppressive economic, political, and social systems imposed by the Spanish and perpetuated after Mexican independence.

Belize Raptor Center Takes Flight! (San Ignacio)
JOIN the Belize Raptor Center on their adventure as they take their conservation mission to the next level! Together, we can make history with the first ever bird show in the country of Belize and a nature center where Belizean youth can participate in positive environmental activities such as camps, documentary movie nights, birding and art classes. Saturday, October 8 at 6 PM - 9 PM, San Ignacio Resort Hotel

Homecoming Parade in San Pedro for Miss Belize America Latina Michelle Estrella Nunez
Another Homecoming Parade in San Pedro, this time for Miss Belize America Latina Michelle Estrella Nunez who placed Top 5 and won award for Most Original Cultural Costume at the Miss America Latina Pageant held at the Riviera Maya, Mexico. Congratulations Michelle!!!

Intermagia International Magic Show coming to San Pedro!!!
Announcing the Intermagia International Magic Show coming to San Pedro for the first time for two shows on October 10th: 2pm & 7pm at Paradise Theater. Join us for an evening of tumbling & magic like you've never seen! Families and children are welcome at 2pm for $10 per person. Adults, please join us at 7pm for $50 a ticket. We also have a LIMITED amount of $100 reserved seating in the front row, which includes food/drink seat service. Each show will open with an opening tumbling act from The Saints. All proceeds will benefit Rotary Club's Wednesday softball night for San Pedro Kids Club. Buy your tickets at Crazy Canucks Beach Bar, Wayo's Beach Bar or Keller Williams San Pedro Belize Team on Front Street before they sell out! Seating is limited to 300 attendees.

Homecoming for Vivian Noralez
Recently crowned Miss Petite Teen Earth 2016 as she arrived on the island; followed by a parade though downtown, San Pedro.

Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture Sets the Record Straight The Ministry of Education, Youths, Sports and Culture wishes to set the record straight in light of the letter sent by Mr. Luke Palacio, President of the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU), on October 1, 2016, to the Chief Education Officer declaring the decision of the BNTU’s Council of Management to effect strike action effective Monday October 3, 2016. The Ministry categorically states that BNTU Proposal #22 was ventilated over many meetings and all parties agreed to bring the matter to a close in the meeting of the Joint Negotiating Team (JNT) of August 12, 2016. The record will show the letter of the BNTU to be a clear attempt to muddy the waters and to shift the goal posts notwithstanding what has transpired in the negotiations so far with respect to the BNTU Special Proposal #22. The BNTU letter states: “BNTU is not in agreement with that statement and GOB’s position and we are demanding that our Proposal #22 be fully and Urgently addressed; especially related to the Employment Status, Service Benefits, and Rights of “Non-teaching Staffs” of our Secondary and Tertiary Levels institutions.” The BNTU’s letter goes on with the demand: “We demand Urgent re-instatement and negotiation/discussion of Proposal #22…”

Poets Corner: BPP Anniversary!
By Abdulmajeed K. Nunez. Today we celebrated our elderly Paying homage to their memory On the day of BPP’s anniversary Showing them gratitude For their years of servitude Connecting with their institutional memories Listening keenly to their stories Belize’s ANC is conscious that for continuity It is a necessity to connect the youth with the elderly With blessings of the elderly And the youth’s energy We’re evolving into a new political consciousness in country People not tied to PUDP People wanting to take back our country From the crutches of tyranny

CAYE CAULKERS CANCER GROUP, ARMS OF LOVE, WILL BE HAVING A TURKEY DINNER SALE ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15TH, 2016
TICKETS WILL BE SOLD AT $12 A PLATE. PLEASE SUPPORT OUR GROUP AND WE WELCOME ANYONE WHO WANTS TO JOIN OUR GROUP.

Caye Caulker Job Vacancies
Vacancy: Available for House Keeper. Experience in cleaning & trustworthy. Must have 1 reference letter. If Interested Please Visit our Office.

Belize National Teachers' Union (BNTU) - Corozal Division
Today, the Belize National Teachers' Union (BNTU) - Corozal Division meet at the Andres Campos Civic Center in solidarity with their call for good governance, 3% adjustment salary, transparency, accountability, anti-corruption, respect and justice for all our people and country. Guest speaker was Mose Hyde, host of the WUB morning Talk Show.

Statement from Belize Teachers' Union - Corozal Town Branch
Update: Prime Minister Barrow and his government have made every effort to intimidate, lie and threaten the teachers, parents and public. Please be guided by facts. 1. The BNTU continues and will continue to fight for the 3% salary adjustment that the GOB had AGREED to pay the teachers. 2. The BNTU DOES NOT HAVE A POLITICAL AGENDA. The 8 points that we have presented and discussed with the Prime Minister are issues that have not only impacted the teachers negatively; but also our country. Because of the existing corruption, our country is in a financial mess and is unable to meet its obligations. Hiding behind Hurricane Earl is inexcusable. 3. Our 8 points not only impact good governance, but also RESPECT FOR THE WORKER. The OSH Bill would have protected our Corozaleño who perished recently at the Central park because of poor safety standards. Many workers, like farmers, are exposed to serious health hazards without any protection. Proposal 22 is also dear to us because of the unjust action of MINISTER FABER who removed it BY THE STROKE OF A PEN from the Education Rules. Removing it means that now Non-teaching staff from grant aided schools be denied the same benefits as the Non-teaching staff from government schools. Equality for all.

Cayo Cancer Walk 2016
The 4th annual Cancer Walk will be on Saturday, October 29th, and will go from Running W to the Social Security Board's office. They have shirts for sale, and they'll have a raffle with 20 prizes. Help out the San Ignacio branch of the Belize Cancer Society, and get a chance to win a great prize. "Lets create awareness by joining the Belize Cancer Society - San Ignacio Branch on its 4th Annual Cancer Walk. This event is also one of its biggest fundraiser to help cancer patients fight this battle."

Independence Day Parade 2016
"The Twin Towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena Celebrated this year's Independence Day with the rythmic songs and 'Liberation Beats' of Lord Laro and Lord Rhaburn along with Belize's Soca Queen Ernestine Carballo and TR Shine. The streets were lined with eager onlookers from beginning to end of the parade. Mayor Earl Trapp kept his promise to the people of Santa Elena to start the ceremonies and parade from the Loma Luz Blvd. Pictures courtesy of Mr. Art Wager"

The Placencia Breeze October 2016
Pg 3 Placencia Saltwater Fishing Tournament Winners Pg 5 BTIA news Pg 7 Thank You to Placencia Saltwater Fishing Tournament Sponsers Pg 9 Fisherfolk Awards Pg 11 Point of View Pg 13 Beach Clean-Up Pg 15 & 18 Placencia BTIA Members Pg 16 & 17 Placencia Peninsula Map Pg 19 Queen of the Bay 2016 Pg 20/21 Placencia Peninsula Guide Pg 22 Placencia Humane Society News Pg 24 Rotary News / Marathon Drink Contest / Where in the World is the Breeze Pg 26 Community Corner Pg 27 In Memory of Terrence Cabral / Tour Guides & Tour Operators Pg 28/29 September Celebrations Photo Gallery Pg 30 Placencia Peninsula Happenings Pg 31 Calender of Events

Channel 7

Tyre Fire On Belcan Triggers Tension, Fizzles Fast
Teachers across the country went on strike today - shutting down most schools, and more of the same is planned for tomorrow. We'll tell you about that shortly, but first to the hottest news of the day - and that's the tyre fire that was set on the Belcan Bridge. It happened just after 4:00 this afternoon We have not be been able to find exactly who is responsible for the fire, but what we do know is that a heap of tires were quickly assembled on the Belcan bridge right at the beginning of rush hour traffic. It was lit, blocking the bridge on both sides. Fortunately, the Fire Department's Cleghorn Street station is very close to the bridge, and before it could get out of hand, they put the fires out. Police swarmed the area, stopping persons from crossing over for about half hour or so, and when the fire had been doused, 2 persons were hauled away. Those men are Belize City Residents, Fitz Howard, Perry "Stix" Smith, who you may recognize as the organizer of Days of Healing initiative. We were there when the police hauled them away in the back of a police mobile, and their fellow community activist, Jose Luis Espat, told us that police took away the wrong men. Here's how that went:

No School Tomorrow; Teachers Strike Goes Into Second Day
And while that fire was raging on Belcan Bridge, the BNTU members were celebrating at their headquarters off Coney Drive. As their songs crescendoed, the blackened clouds of smoke tainted the afternoon sky. Now the fire starters have their own agenda and wanted to cause some trouble in the name of the teachers by blocking the bridge with burning tires. But, undaunted, the BNTU have their own plans - they are continuing their strike action tomorrow. President Luke Palacio gave the announcing and made it clear that they are not with any group who wants to cause destruction and dilute their message. Luke Palacio, National President - BNTU: "So my friends, brothers and sisters we can see that the intimidation tactics have not work and because the intimidation tactics have not worked, tomorrow we continue the strike."

Teachers Call Police Protection Intimidation
And so the strike continues tomorrow - and it will be interesting to see if it was as successful as it was today. Reports received from various parts of the country say that the school shutdown was effective and widespread. It certainly was that way in the largest schooling center, which is Belize City. Now, we stress: not all schools were closed and we found that government managed schools were more likely to be opened. Here's what we saw on our morning circle of shuttered schools: Schools across the city were closed today - if they had shutters you would think it's a hurricane coming at this Catholic school, schoolyards, as barren as deserts, Queen Square Anglican seemed to have some activity but instead of opening doors, we saw them being closed most schools, though, looked like they hadn't been opened all day doors were closed too at St. John's Vianney.

BNTU Claims Strike Success
So while that is the report from Belize City, what was the overall picture for Day 1 of the teachers strike? Executive Secretary Kesha Young Flowers gave us the run down based on branches and BNTU are very pleased with the results. Kesha Young Flowers, Executive Secretary - BNTU: "We have gotten our first report from day 1 of BNTU strike. In Corozal Town Branch: 8 schools were fully closed, 5 were opened. But most of them were giving partial service. They had maybe 2 classrooms or a classroom open. Give Corozal Town branch a hand." Kesha Young Flowers, Executive Secretary - BNTU: "Corozal Rural branch: all schools were fully closed. One teacher showed up to work at San Narciso. So that's almost 100% support from Corozal Rural branch."

It is About "the Three"?
And while the Teachers Union is hoping to increase the pressure on the government by entering its second day of strike action, the dynamic in the dispute now seems to be changing and that's because of a letter that the Teachers Union sent to the Chief Education Office on Friday. The letter starts off as a formal notice of strike action - and explains that the industrial action is, quote, "to express our dissatisfaction with the long and the slow and inadequate pace of our current round of collective bargaining negotiations," end quote. The letter ends by demanding two things: payment of the three percent salary adjustment, and urgent negotiation of what is known as Proposal #22 - which relates to service benefits of non-teaching staff. So then is it all about the "three percent" after all? We say that because for weeks, we've been hearing only about the 8 governance proposals. President Palacio says it's always been about the 3:... Luke Palacio, President - BNTU

Unions Pledge Verbal Support
A number of unions have sent out statements of solidarity with the BNTU. They include the Christian Workers Union and the Belize Workers Union from BSI. The Christian Workers has called on its members to wear green ribbons throughout this work week. The Belize Workers Union says, quote, "The BQWU stands in solidarity to move the cause to the next level." Neither union has committed its members to industrial action.

Police Patrols Stymie Port Troublemakers
But stevedore Raymond Rivers kind of sent out his own informal release last week when he said that the port would be shut down. And this weekend a little bird told the media that we should be out on Caesar Ridge Road at the entrance to the Port at 5:00 am for some direct industrial action. All the major media houses showed up to see….nothing much. It was just business as usual at the port - with quite a few police patrols in rotation. Today, the Southside commander told us that they have to be on guard against opportunists trying to use the teachers' cause to start trouble:... Jules Vasquez, 7News: "There are other who might be opportunist. Are you all also concern about those people trying to use the teachers cause to start trouble?"

Matthew Gets Ready To Maul Haiti and Jamaica
And we turn now from the political storm brewing in Belize, to a real storm, a bad one that's bearing down on Haiti and Jamaica tonight. Hurricane Matthew, is a dangerous Category 4 storm which is expected to have a devastating impact on those island nations. Matthew is expected to dump as much as 40 inches of rain in some areas of Haiti, and around 20 inches in most of Jamaica. Thousands have already been evacuated in both countries over the weekend. Hurricane Matthew is expected to make landfall late tonight and move up into Cuba, the Bahamas and Florida by the end of the week.

Love Triangle Leads To Murder In OW
There was a broad daylight murder in Orange Walk Town yesterday afternoon. It happened after midday in the Louisiana area. 30 year-old Bladis Gonzalez was stabbed to death at of his home, which is located at the corner of Zericote Street and Palmar Road. He was inside his house with his brother-in-law when his attacker came looking for him. They got into a confrontation which quickly escalated into an altercation. Gonzalez tried to escape, but the knife wielding man hunted him down and stabbed him to death. The man reportedly came to question Gonzalez about a relationship he'd had with the attacker's wife. Our colleagues from CTV3 News spoke to Orange Walk Police Inspector Jose Mendez, and he shared a few of the details that the investigators have managed to unearth so far:

Morning Shooting In San Pedro Laves Man Critical
There was also a shooting this morning on San Pedro Town. The victim is 38 year-old Wayne Allen. The police investigation is that at around 12:40 a.m., he was at home with his common-law wife. They heard a knock at the door, and when Allen opened it, someone immediately opened fire on him. He was injured twice in the face, and tonight, he is in a critical condition at the KHMH. Police say that it is too early in their investigation is to say what leads they will be looking into, especially because Allen is unable to assist them. They did tell us that he was someone known to San Pedro police.

Pirates force Fishers To Jump In Sea, Man Disappears
A fisherman is missing at sea after his group was held up by pirates. Last Friday, returning from full day of fishing, three men were attacked by pirates who were after their catch. This reportedly happened in the waters off Dangriga. The three men immediately jumped into the water in an attempt to escape. Two of the three men were later found, but as Hampton Gamboa from the Fisheries Department told us, the third man is unaccounted for: Hampton Gamboa - Conservation and Compliance Unit Supervisor, Fisheries Department: "In the whole altercation it was believed that there were three fishers and only two of them, so far, we have communicated. Those two have indicated to us that they have no idea what happened to the third person that was with them." The Coast Guard is leading the investigation but we could not get a comment form them.

Mexican Navy Proves Its Partnership
Welcome back...picking up where we left off, we were telling you about the Mexican Naval Vessel, called the "Independencia", which was docked in Belize City as part of the celebration for Belize's and Mexico's 35th year of diplomatic relations. But before the celebrations started, the Mexican Navy showed their commitment to the relationship by saving a Belizean man who was drowning off the coast. According to the report, the crew of the "Independencia" spotted a person in the water making distress signals. Rescue swimmers immediately went to his aid and hauled him on board where he was given emergency medical treatment. The Belizean man's small boat had apparently capsized, throwing him overboard. He was later handed safely over to the Coast Guard.

GSU Gets Gun After Shooting
On Saturday the GSU was called to the Antelope Street Extension area where shots had allegedly been fired. According to reports, two men fired shots, but no one was injured. The GSU then searched the surrounding area and found a loaded 9mm Glock 17 pistol in a nearby drain. There were no suspects nearby, and the firearm was labeled as "found property".

Getting A Jump On Conch Season Proves Costly
Every year, Belizean consumers wait patiently for conch season to arrive, and so do the fishermen. While the majority of the men and women who make their living through fishing respect the conch season, some try to get an illegal head start. Last Friday, the day before the season started, the Fisheries Department and Coast Guard confiscated 455 individual conchs from three fishermen near the Lighthouse Reef. We spoke with Supervisor of the Conservation and Compliance Unit about this practice of pinching conch before the season starts. Hampton Gamboa - Conservation and Compliance Unit Supervisor, Fisheries Department: "Joint patrol between the Belize Audubon Society, out at lighthouse reef, Fisheries department and the BZ Coast Guard, vetted this catch, came across this catch, about 2 o'clock, 3 o'clock there about, at lighthouse reef on the 30th of September. The day before, conch opened..."

More Guats In Chiquibul
Belizean law enforcement officers caught 3 more Guatemalans illegally farming inside the Chiquibul on Belizean territory. They were discovered by a joint patrol, which consisted of personnel from the BDF, the police, and rangers from the Friends for Conservation and Development. The officers visited an area known as Caballo Camp half a kilometer east of the Belize/Guatemala border. That's where they found 1 man chopping, while two others were fumigating with hand pumps. They were identified as 54 year-old Felipe Ramirez Diaz, 20 year-old Mario Arturo Ramirez, and a 17 year-old minor, who are all from the village of La Cebada, which is in Melchor. While searching the men, the Belizean law enforcement team found a .45 automatic handgun, with a magazine containing 7 live rounds.

WhatsApp With Those Cops?
Our next story is about community policing, but not the kind we usually see on the news. This one is about making police more responsive to and engaged with the community. Police in Belize Rural have found arresting ways to use Whatsapp for more than just idle chatter. Daniel Ortiz found out more:... So, since they are so much into technology, would rural police consider wearing body cameras? That's the kind used by police in developed countries where everything the officer does is caught on camera. The Rural Police Commander told us that he would see it as a progressive step to police transparency:

A Singular Victory For Volleyball
The FIVB Men's Volleyball World Championship Qualification Tournament came to a close last Friday at the SCA Multi-Purpose Center. In its final match, Team Belize faced off against Honduras, but in this game the stakes were high. If Belize lost, they would have only earned enough points to place fourth in the tournament, but a win meant that a Belizean team would take to the podium for the medal ceremony for the first time in sixteen years. Alex Courtenay reporting Coming off a day of rest, Belize started off its match against Honduras strong. With a commanding offense, the home team managed to gain an early lead and stay there. From the start, Team Belize showed its intensity, never missing an opportunity to send powerful spikes down at their opponents. Though they put up a fight, Team Belize managed to break through the Honduran defense and take the first set.

Chamber Chides Church Senator
In Friday's news, we had extensive coverage of the Senate Meeting where all sides hammered out the terms for Senate Select Committee to investigate the Auditor General's Reports on the Immigration Department. But, just because it reached a conclusion, that doesn't mean everyone's happy about it. On Friday evening, the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry released a statement to voice its discontent. That statement says, quote, "We will review our options in light of the terms and composition of the Special Select Committee further to the motion passed today... Any special select committee which is shackled by terms such as those in the motion passed today or with the limitations indicated by the terms of reference is unacceptable, and extremely concerning. The PUP has also sent out a press release scolding the Government for using their majority to get the Church Senator's motion to pass.

Tending To Bartending
Most adults know the basics of mixing a drink like rum and coke or a screwdriver. But, there is so much more to mixing drinks than you probably know and that is what owner of Belize Institute of Mixology Luis Velasquez is trying to teach aspiring bartenders through his hands on courses. The training was split in two: the beginners session which was held for 3 days and then there was the 7 week advanced bartender training which concluded today at Spoonaz. We dropped by to see what fancy drinks they were serving up. There were 15 participants in the advanced training. As you heard Velasquez also helps these participants get a job after the training.

Hail The Heroes
OCEANA's Ocean Hero award celebrates the accomplishments of individuals involved in ocean conservation, advocacy and education. Today, two Belizeans, Janet Gibson, and Wil Maheia, were named the 2016 Ocean Heroes. Gibson, a marine biologist, has spent the last forty years revolutionizing Belize's marine conservation and resource management strategies. She played a large part in getting the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Glover's Reef Atoll recognized as protected areas. Wil Maheia is the founder of the Toledo Institute for Development and the Environment. He and his organization advocate against the use of hazardous fishing equipment like gill nets and promote alternate livelihoods like fly fishing. Gibson and Maheia join six other Belizean activists as Ocean Heroes.

CFZ Gets Upgrade
The Corozal Free Zone is a popular shopping destination for many Belizeans and Mexicans. But, it still has to compete with the mall, Sam's Club and Walmart in Chetumal, which is why a money has been pledged to spruce it up a bit. Today the Corozal Free Zone signed a contract to invest $2.5 million in the renovation of its infrastructure. The project, designed by Young's Engineering Consultancy Ltd, will add sidewalks, roundabouts, storm drains, pedestrian ramps and other important traffic structures to the area. Belize Roadway Construction Limited is making the renovations. The project's funds were acquired from the Government, the Corozal Free Zone administration and other investors. Work is expected to last six months.

Channel 5

Who Set Tires on Fire on BelCan Bridge?
This evening, a scene eerily reminiscent of the worst of the 2005 riots greeted rush hour drivers. Perhaps the most important traffic route in all of Belize City, the BelCan [...]

Teachers Announce Second Day of Strike Action
But the big announcement came this afternoon from B.N.T.U. National President Luke Palacio after a meeting at the union headquarters. Across the country, the B.N.T.U. teachers stayed away from the [...]

City’s Schools Are Ghost Towns on First Day of Strike
As we said, a majority of Belize’s teachers were out of school today, in support of the strike by their union. It is a result of the Belize National Teachers’ [...]

B.N.T.U. Claims Massive Success with Strike
During today’s meeting in Belize City, B.N.T.U. executive secretary Keisha Young read out the details of how many absences and school closures there were – and there were a lot [...]

U.D.P. Minister Faults Teachers for Stepping Out of Boundaries after Executive Meeting
The ruling United Democratic Party’s National Party Council met Saturday in a regular session at the party’s headquarters at Youth for the Future Drive in Belize City. This quarterly meeting [...]

Police Move to Protect B.N.T.U. Leaders – But They Thought It Was Intimidation
Our first interview with B.N.T.U. President Luke Palacio took place this morning, just before nine a.m., as he and B.N.T.U. executive secretary Keisha Young left from an appearance on the [...]

Love Triangle in Orange Walk Claims Life
In Orange Walk Town, tragedy struck a family when one of their own was fatally stabbed on the abdomen and chest on Sunday. Thirty-year-old Bladis Gonzalez who had just moved [...]

Belmopan Educators Stay Out of School in Big Numbers
B.N.T.U. Belmopan Branch says today’s strike was a success. The teachers who didn’t go to school converged in the Capital where the eight demands by the union were ventilated by [...]

Orange Walk’s Students Join Their Teachers to Protest
Regional branches of the B.N.T.U. met simultaneously to discuss the way forward which resulted in an endorsement of day-two of strike action. In the north, where the B.N.T.U. is strong [...]

Catholic Confusion is Really Intimidation, says B.N.T.U.
But the strike action has not been without its hurdles. The Catholic Public Schools suffered an apparent communication breakdown last week. It started after infirm Catholic Bishop Dorick Wright, at [...]

Teachers Welcome Chamber of Commerce Support
The Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry has issued a statement of support for the B.N.T.U. following a meeting between their respective leaderships on Friday. The Chamber reiterated its support [...]

P.U.P. Still Insists on Balanced Senate Special Select Committee
A Senate Select Committee was established last Friday; it includes only one member from the People’s United Party. Today, the Opposition called for a reconstitution of the Committee and advanced [...]

Junior Finance Minister Dr. Carla Barnett Maintains Belize’s Economy Will Recover
Minister of State for Finance; former Financial Secretary, and former vice-president at the Caribbean Development Bank, Doctor Carla Barnett, addressed reporters on Friday on the current state of the economy. [...]

Instead of Raising Taxes, Government Wants to Collect More Money
Speaking more specifically on raising taxes, Doctor Barnett reiterated that the Government’s efforts are presently aimed at increasing the level of outstanding taxes it collects and closing loopholes in the [...]

Rural Eastern Division police establish non-emergency phone service
Turning to the fight against crime…the Rural Eastern Division launched a non-emergency number for the public in that division. The police hope that the number will make it easier for [...]

Corozal Fishermen Busted for Catching Conch Out of Season
The conch season officially opened on Saturday, but even before then, on Friday, a joint patrol of Belize Audubon Society, Fisheries Department and the Belize National Coast Guard officers out [...]

OCEANA Questions Department of Environment Over Petroleum Work
Last Wednesday, the Ministry of Economic Development and Petroleum sent out a release stating that along with the Geology Department, it will be conducting a multi-beam and sea seep survey [...]

Football, Volleyball and Softball News on Sports Monday
Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.   Undefeated FC Belize took on a surging BDF team yesterday as the Premier League of Belize season heats up. [...]

CTV3

Teachers Will Go Second Day Of Strike
As scheduled the Belize National Teachers Union, (BNTU), undertook strike action across the country of Belize in their demand for better governance in our nation. Even before today’s industrial action the BNTU were urging parents to stand in solidarity with them and to refrain from sending their children to school. So, did parents adhere to BNTU’s plea? What we can tell you is that here in Orange Walk over 90 percent of the school population were closed as over four hundred teachers partook in today’s strike. San Francisco Primary School was closed, La Imaculada Primary School closed, Saint Peters Anglican School closed, Muffles High School closed, Orange Walk Technical High School had the presence of 11 teachers, New Hope High School had a low staff and student body, Louisiana Government School remained opened but the student body was low. Of the six primary schools in town only one remained open today and of the four high schools only two remained open but had a minimal population of teachers and students present.

Widespread Support for BNTU Strike
A majority of schools closed their gates and classroom doors today as teachers participated in a national strike called by the Belize National Teachers Union today. We visited various primary and high schools today and only found a few operational. In Corozal Town, the gates at Our Lady of Guadalupe RC School were padlocked and no one was present. There was no activity at St. Francis Xavier Primary. Corozal Methodist Primary was open, but classrooms were locked up. Mary Hill RC was closed and while the office at Church of Christ Primary School was open, classrooms weren’t. The high schools were not so different. Corozal Community College and Corozal Junior College had no activity as classrooms remained closed. Outside the town, we found Belize Adventist College in Calcutta Village fully operational. Next door, at Calcutta Primary School, the school children were required to attend despite the national strike. The message was received loud and clear at Xaibe Village where the school building were closed. We found Escuela Secundaria Tecnica Mexico open. We understood some students arrived for school, but there were just a handful of teachers in attendance, so the student were kept inside their conference hall.

Teachers Not Backing Down Despite Intimidation
Even as the Belize National Teachers Union remains firm in their plan for industrial action, some may consider the announcement made by the Deputy Prime Minster last week, concerning the singing of a Statutory Instrument in order to replace teachers that are on strike continues to play an important role in GOB’s intimidation tactics against the teachers. During an interview today with National President of the BNTU, Luke Palacio, he dispelled such presumptions and reiterated BNTU’s plan to remain steadfast in their demands. Luke Palacio – President Belize National Teachers Union: “The SI would not less the effectiveness of the BNTU strike because we are resolved in what we are doing we need to start to understand and get this nation to get it clear that let us stop having a government that can decide when and how Belizeans will behave simply with the stroke of a pen...”

O/W Mayor Offers Motivational Speech For Students In Support Of Teachers
Immediately following their protest at the MJC school grounds a number of the students made their way to the Orange Walk Central Park where they continued their peaceful protest in solidarity of the teachers. Showing his support for the students this morning was Mayor of Orange Walk, Kevin Bernard who offered a few words of encouragement for the students. Mayor Kevin Bernard – Orange Walk Town Council: “You are all right thinking people, look at things openly, objectively not politically but look at things objectively and you make your decision on what you believe is wrong and what is right. You are the future of our country..”

CWU In Support For Teachers
The Belize Workers Union, The Belize Chamber of Commerce, COLA and even the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association these are just some of the unions and entities that are in support of the Belize National Teachers Union movement for good governance. But while the teachers are on the move, so is government doing everything in their power to keep schools open. To do this they are relying on the singing of a Statutory Instrument in order to replace teachers that are on strike and there are also reports of intimidation and in some cases pay offs.

LOVE FM

Belcan Barricaded with Burning Tires
That is what came out of the branch meetings that were held across the country today. We’ll get to that in just a few but first we go to the chaos that ensued on Belcan Bridge in Belize City. Tires were set on fire across the bridge causing traffic to be blocked. Fire fighters responded […]

BNTU Extends Industrial Action for Another Day
National President of the Belize National Teachers’ Union, Luke Palacio, announced this afternoon that teachers will strike again tomorrow. The decision was made after teachers met with their respective branch members today. The BNTU is placing a massive amount of pressure on the Government as they reiterate their eight demands in regards to good governance. […]

Division Inside the Catholic Diocese
When we spoke to the President of the Belize National Teachers’ Union, Luke Palacio, we asked him about what seems to be a division within the Roman Catholic Diocese when it came to the issue. As you may recall a press release issued out of the Office of the Roman Catholic Bishop expressed solidarity with […]

PUP Wants Reconstitution of Special Select Committee
The main opposition party, People’s United Party is now calling for an independent and impartial committee to launch an investigation into the illegalities reported in the Auditor General’s Audit Report on the Immigration and Nationality Department for the period 2011- 2013. The Senate inquiry is to conduct this investigation but the PUP is now asking […]

Government Undergoes Process to Sign UN Convention on Anti-Corruption
One of the eight demands being made by the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) is the signing onto the United Nations Convention on Anti-corruption. Love News spoke with Dr Carla Barnett who is also a supporter of the convention. Dr Barnett is the Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance; she spoke of the […]

Labor Union’s Playing Belize’s Savior, Says FM
The United Democratic Party held its National Party Council meeting this past Saturday to discuss its party matters as well as issues of national importance. The impasse between the Government and the Belize National Teachers’ Union was discussed as Prime Minister’s explained the situation to his UDP Ministers. One of those ministers who formed part […]

Robert Locke on the Lam Following Weekend Murder
Orange Walk Police are on the lookout for a man described to be of Creole descent and goes by the name, Robert Locke of a Chula Vista address in Corozal Town. Locke is wanted for the Sunday murder of Bladis Gonzalez which occurred on Zericote Street on Sunday around midday. The victim reportedly bore eight […]

Search Is On for Local Fisherman Following Robbery at Sea
A robbery carried out by pirates has left three fishermen in shock following the incident on Friday evening in the area of Columbus Caye, just off the coast of Dangriga. The fishermen were approached by an unknown vessel and were beaten and robbed of all their marine produce they had amassed. It has been reported […]

Busted with Conch Hours Before Season Starts
Three fishermen from Copper Bank Village, Corozal District were intercepted with illegal conch one day before opening of the season. The fishermen were caught north of the Blue Hole around Lighthouse Reef. Conservation Compliance Unit Supervisor at the Fisheries Department, Hampton Gamboa spoke on the incident. HAMPTON GAMBOA “Joint patrol between the Belize Audubon Society […]

Heroes of the Ocean Named for 2016
Over the past six years, Oceana in Belize has been recognizing several Belizeans for their contributions to the sustainable management and protection of our marine environment. On Saturday night, at a ceremony held at the Mexican Institute in Belize City, Oceana recognized two Belizeans as Ocean Heroes 2016 for their selfless commitment to Belize’s marine […]

Breaking Belize News

Fisherman missing at sea; Coast Guard searching for him
BBN has received reports that a fisherman is missing at sea. According to reports, three fishermen were returning home on Friday, September 30, 2016 after a full day of fishing at sea when they were attacked by pirates who were in an unknown vessel. […]

Ministry of Education sets the record straight
Today, the Ministry of Education sent out a release to ‘set the record straight’. The two page document explains a timeline of meetings with the BNTU and government regarding their demands to the government.’ It begins by stating “The Ministry categorically states that BNTU Proposal […]

Cayo District Youth Council stand in solidarity with BNTU
The Cayo District youth council sent out a release expressing its support for the Belize National Teachers Union. The release states that they recognize that teachers play a major role in educating the youth of a nation. They listed out the many challenges teachers […]

Teachers to extend strike by another day
About 150 teachers gathered at the Octavia Waight Center for today’s meeting of striking teachers from the BNTU San Ignacio branch. Guest speakers for the occasion included Hector Silva and Louis Wade. Teachers from the San Ignacio jurisdiction voted ‘en masse’ for the strike […]

Fire on Belcan Bridge in Belize City
Reports reaching our newsroom are that there is a fire on the Belcan Bridge in Belize City. According to reports, a bunch of tires were assembled and lit on the bridge right at the beginning of rush hour blocking the bridge on both sides. […]

Why 2016 is not 2005?
While there are some who for selfish reasons would like history to repeat itself, the mood that existed in 2005 cannot be replicated in 2016, and the reasons are simple. First of all, Dean Barrow is NOT Said Musa, and the UDP is […]

Mayor of Orange Walk supports BNTU
The Mayor of Orange Walk town has issued a press release today expressing continued support for the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU). The mayor says that “these courageous men and women have taken up a noble fight against corruption, demanding good governance – a stance […]

Chester Williams responds to Police deployment on Patridge Street
Assistant Commissioner of Police Chester Williams posted on social media that the police are not hindering the teachers from exercising their rights. He says that the police officers posted at the different locations including those at Patridge street are there to ensure the […]

Police deployed to Kremandala building to remove BTNU officers
It is being reported that police officers were deployed to Kremandala building on Partridge Street to remove BNTU officers and supporters from the WUB Morning Show. Broadcast live streaming video on Ustream Talk Show host Mose Hyde has said that GOB’s action is cynical […]

Blogs

Huge News Trader Joes in San Pedro
You can imagine my excitement when my friend Leisa was taking her husband Cowboy Doug and I to lunch and she happened to mention that our mutual friend and local business owner, Shawn Keating had opened up a new store called Island Depot and they were selling Trader Joes products. When I got to the store Nita (Shawn’s Wife) happened to be there and she was happy to tell me more. Shawn (owns well known Mechanic Shop on the island) will occasionally be going back to the states and they will be doing custom orders for Trader Joes. His next trip will be closer to Christmas. In addition to Trader Joes, Island Depot also sells some other good stuff. There are 3 different producers of met that I have enjoyed beef from in Belize and Reinland meats is one of them. All their products are great and I was happy to see such a large selection in the freezer.

Banana Cream Pie
Yummy

A spook-tacular Halloween experience in Ambergris Caye!
October and Halloween are like peanut butter and jelly – you can’t think about one without the other. We welcome October with open arms. The red white and blue September Celebrations décor has come down, and are now replaced with ghoulish accessories – at least here on Ambergris Caye they are! This island takes Halloween seriously, celebrating the day of All Hallows Eve with some of the best parties in Belize. Every year, the parties thrown for Halloween grow more and more extravagant, with none more than The Holiday Hotel Halloween Party. Every year, hundreds of islanders sport their best costumes in hopes of winning over the judges and ultimately scoring cash prizes, cool give always and best of all – BRAGGING RIGHTS! The parties are not limited to just the adults – pets and children can have fun too; Saga Humane Society hosts an annual Halloween Costume Competition for pets, while several organizations hold Trick or Treat parties for the kids in various neighborhoods around town.

Belize launches Caribbean’s latest Internet Exchange Point
The Belize Public Utilities Commission announced that Belize’s first Internet exchange point, named BIXP, was successfully launched in Belize City on April 27 at the campus of the University of Belize. The launch was the culmination of unprecedented collaboration between Belizean Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in the highly competitive local telecommunication sector. The Belize Public Utilities Commission, the national regulator, facilitated the process, with support from regional and international agencies. An Internet exchange point is a piece of physical infrastructure through which ISPs exchange traffic between their networks. Many ISPs in the Caribbean pass the data through faraway networks in the United States or Europe, before rerouting to their consumers in their own country.

What a typical Friday night out looks like in Placencia, Belize!
We got a bit of a later start Friday night due to our construction, but the typical place many people start their night out at is at Yoli's. Yoli's is kind of tough to find, but well worth it once you do! It is a quintessential Palapa Bar over the water, and they have a live fun Jimmy Buffett-style band called the Lost Reefers there, starting at 3 or 4 on Fridays. We got there about 7 and had some quick fun: Then we walked over to Mojo's, just a quick walk. Again we missed "happy hour and a half" which is 5-6:30. They also had fun live music on their little balcony, which is great for people watching..... Next we went to Pickled Parrot. Eugene and Lynn can always be found having a good time, and their bar is as fun Caribbean as it gets....

Top Travel Photos and Videos of Belize for September 2016
September definitely lived up to all the hype that it garnered throughout the beginning of 2016, with various activities and festivities being celebrated across the country of Belize all month long. Travelers and locals alike, made their way to various destinations across the country to not only dine, imbibe, and socialize, but to also be a part of the Belize Celebrations experience. Whether you were attending the Queen of the Bay or Ms. Belize Universe Pageant, the Flag Raising Ceremony, the Fire Engine Parade, J’ouvert or Carnival Road March just to name a few, there was sure to be an event that captured your interest and enthusiasm. With so many spectacular travel related posts on Instagram featuring Belize this past month, it was definitely no easy task choosing our favourites. From the thousands of travel photos and videos that were taken, we have chosen several that we believe truly highlight spending September in Belize! Here's our list of the Top Travel Photos and Videos of Belize for September 2016:

International Sources

Eyeglasses no longer allowed in US passport, visa photos
THE UNITED STATES Embassy to Barbados, the Eastern Caribbean, and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) advises that, effective November 1, 2016, applicants for US passports and visas must remove their eyeglasses for US passport and visa photos. The US Department of State is implementing this policy to enhance the security of the application process and improve officers’ ability to quickly verify the identity of applicants. Applicants may wear eyeglasses for US passport and US visa photos if they have a medical issue, such as a recent surgery, and require eyeglasses to protect their eyes. If applicants must wear eyeglasses for medical reasons, they will need to submit a signed statement with their application from a medical professional or health practitioner, such as a surgeon or ophthalmologist.

Punta Gorda, Toledo District, Belize
"As soon as you enter the lush leafy gardens of BlueBelize, you feel you’re in another world. Smiling staff, Caribbean sea views and colourful birds fluttering among the tropical trees and shrubs give this laidback Punta Gorda guesthouse a feeling of calm and tranquillity." On a quiet seafront road, BlueBelize is a 10-minute walk into Punta Gorda or PG, the southernmost town in Belize’s remote Toledo district, with several locally run restaurants, bars and craft shops. On the highest coastal land in Belize overlooking the Caribbean Sea and westwards to Guatemala, it’s a six-hour drive from Belize City along the scenic Hummingbird Highway. Attractions include the cayes and reefs off the coast, Eladio Pop’s cocoa farm, and inland Mayan sites of Lubaantun, Nim Li Punit and Uxbenká, 40 minutes to an hour away.

Junior Finance Minister Dr. Carla Barnett Maintains Belize’s Economy Will Recover
Oct 3, 2016 Minister of State for Finance; former Financial Secretary, and former vice-president at the Caribbean Development Bank, Doctor Carla Barnett, addressed reporters on Friday on the current state of the economy. The country has just completed its Article IV consultation with the International Monetary Fund , which continues to call for cuts to the wage bill, increases in taxes and other measures. The Dean Barrow administration has refused to follow the prescriptions of the I.M.F., and while Doctor Barnett explicitly said she would not commit to any specific measures, she did insist the Government has the ability and competency to correct the economy’s current course. That includes a “halftime report” on the state of the budget, which was read in March. Dr. Carla Barnett, Minister of State, Finance “I am not at all committing myself to any specific fiscal measure at this time.

John McAfee's strange tale gets darker in documentary
The last time I saw John McAfee, in early 2015, he was crawling on the pavement of a motel parking lot in Birmingham, Ala., at 6 a.m., straining in vain to show me where a suspicious device had been affixed to his SUV. The reasoning: the Central American hit squad he was convinced was plotting to assassinate him had resorted to a bomb after failing to gun him down the previous year. An increasingly agitated McAfee explained — again — the turn of events that led to his pavement-crawling pose. "Yes, I believe the device was an explosive meant to do me great harm," he said then. Strange? Yes. Riveting? No question. McAfee's fantastical stories, which separate truth from illusion by a razor's edge, is part of his carnival barker-like appeal. But relatively speaking, this was a benign version of McAfee, cultivated by him the past few years as he's started a business incubator and given talks at tech conferences. A new Showtime Documentary Film, which premiered Sept. 24, offers a much-darker vision, with bombshell charges of murders, rape and gang violence.

ECLAC delivers 'strong answer' to budgeting process needs of Caribbean public administrations
The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) has provided a “strong answer” to what senior public officials across the Caribbean have been searching for in order to improve the budgeting process of public administrations, according to the participants of a week-long regional training workshop that provided officials with robust tools and techniques necessary for more effective management of public finances. Held at ECLAC Caribbean’s sub regional headquarters in Port of Spain, from 19 to 23 September, the workshop focused on forecasting and fiscal transparency in the conduct of public expenditure reviews (PERs). PERs are intended to align public sector expenditure with the priorities of national governments.

MEXICAN NAVY RESCUES A PERSON AT RISK OF DROWNING ON THE COAST OF BELIZE
The Mexican Ministry of the Navy reports that on the morning of the date above, naval personnel aboard the ship ARM "BICENTENNIAL OF THE INDEPENDENCE" (PO-163) rescued a male individual who was at risk drowning on the coast of Belize. This action took place when personnel of the Mexican Navy (watchmen on duty on deck), sailing off coast of Belize, spotted an individual floating on the water and making distress signals, which was thus followed by the "man overboard" notice and the order for rescue swimmers to safeguard the life of the aforementioned person. Once the person was retrieved from the water, medical personnel aboard the PO-163 provided assistance to the individual who said he was a Belizean national and that his boat had capsized before sinking.

Videos

October 3, 2016

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

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, Rise and Shine Morning Show, and the Dickie Bradley Specials

The San Pedro Sun

Police Report
On Tuesday, September 27th, at around 6AM. Police conducted a search on an unpainted two storage board house in the San Mateo Area occupied by 32-year-old Caryl Smith where police found a .45 Winchester brand live round of ammunition and 21.2 grams of Cannabis.
42-year-old Percival Armstrong, 44-year-old Miriam Reyes and 25-year-old Kent Wade were arrested and charged jointly for the crime of “Possession of Controlled Drugs” after being found with 16.8 grams of Cannabis.
A search on 23-year-old Victor Parchue led to the discovery of 25.9 grams of Cannabis. He was subsequently arrested and charged for the crime of “Possession of Controlled Drugs”.
Searches conducted by K-9 Unit and Team members lead to the discovery of two black plastic bags containing several sealed transparent compressed plastic pouches with green leafy vegetable substance suspected to be Cannabis. The drugs were transported to the San Pedro Police Station.

Wolfe’s Woofer: Who Changes The Child?
“What are you so upset about?” Sherry asked. “It’s Mario,” I told her. “He was supposed to be here at eight o’clock to help me clean up the bodega.” “Since it’s already nine-thirty I would say he is not coming over today.” “Oh, yes he is. I’m going to his house to get him.” When Lupe answered the door I said, “Ms. Lupe, where is Mario? He was supposed to work with me today.” “I don’t think he will work with you today,” Lupe said. “When he wakes up his head will be hurting a lot.” “He’s going to have a hangover?” I asked.

2017 Public and Bank Holiday Schedule Announced
IT IS NOTIFIED for general information that public and bank holidays specified in the First and Second Schedules to Holidays Act, Chapter 289 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2000 – 2003, will be observed on the following d

Doctor Love: Discouraged and Doubtful
Dear Doctor Love, I have been dating a woman for ten months and I am really hooked. I take her out to dinner and dancing all and I buy her gifts for every occasion. I have bought her jewelry. We have gone to Hawaii and the Virgin Islands together and stayed in the same hotel room but we have never had sex. She took me out one time to dinner at Christmas and that is it. I gave her three thousand dollars towards a wedding ring but there is no sign of one yet. I am a widower. She is the first woman I have been with in thirty years. When I tell her how much I love her and want to marry her she says I am rushing her. Am I just being used? Should I just try to get the money back for the ring and move on? I am over fifty and I am too old to be out there looking for someone new. What can I do? /s/ Discouraged

Misc Belizean Sources

Vivian Noralez wins Miss Petite Teen Earth
Congratulations Vivian Noralez who represented Belize in Panama City last night and won the title of Miss Petite Teen Earth International 2016! I couldnt have done it without my parents. A proud woman of Maya/Garifuna decent, a proud San Pedrana, A proud Belizean. Miss Petite Teen Earth 2016, the right hand of Miss Teen Earth 2016 Miss USA. 2 titles were given tonight. I am so happy. I came on a mission and I gave it my all. Be yourself, everything is possible. Exito! Thank you Eduardo B Aguilar for everything! And to everyone who supported me. Thank you! See you next year Panama, i want my rice and beans now! Haha

Jan's Place on Caye Caulker looking for receptionist
Vacancy in Caye Caulker.

Vacancy – Ka’ana Resort
Duties and Responsibilities: • Supervision of all kitchen staff • training of kitchen staff • able to plan menues • Supervises inventory and stock control • Ensures that health and safety standards are maintained in the kitchen • Reviews the daily roster of the different tasks in the kitchen • Distributes kitchens tasks to the employees • Knowledge in cost control • Knowledge in portion control Applications along with CV and references are to be submitted to [email protected] Applicants need to submit Police Record, food handler’s certificate and a copy of a valid social security card along with CV. Submit CV’s and requirements by October 15, 2016

Two sailboats robbed at Cross Caye
Did you hear about the two sail boats that were robbed yesterday at Cross Caye? It's said the assailants had two AK 47! One fisherman from Sarteneja was hit on the head w a fire arm and fell into the sea and haven't been found. The rest managed to escape by jumping in the pitch Black Sea and swim to the reef. They called coast guard for help from the night it happen and till morning them came. That's y fisherman have been begging GOB to plz set a coast guard base down south. When will this end, how much more blood has to be shed for this to end!!? Share for awareness! We need more security for the fishermen of Belize!

Miss Petite Teen Earth International 2016
Congratulations to Vivian Noralez on her win as Miss Petite Teen Earth International 2016. This is a huge accomplishment for Belize and for our Isla Bonita! Congratulations once again! Go Viv! Our big weekend in pageants continues as Vivian Magdalen Noralez granted Belize a first-time victory of her own. Miss Belize was named Miss Petite Teen Earth International 2016 last night in Panama City. We are so proud of this young lady. Miss USA captured the crown of Miss Teen Earth 2016.

Letter: Belize Progressive Party supports the teachers, unequivocally
Dear Sir: Amid these perilous times, in which each passing day it becomes increasingly more clear that our nation is in the grips of a tyrannical and despotic administration, the Belize Progressive Party (BPP) wishes to express its unequivocal support for the BNTU, as it institutes industrial action. Our solidarity with the teachers is grounded in the BPP’s core principle of: fostering, adhering to and championing good governance practices and principles. Given the reality that corruption in Belize is more the rule than the exception, the BPP is heartened to know the BNTU shall demonstrate its resolve toward standing for what is right.

The Reporter

Senate Select Committee formed; BCCI reacts to Senate proceedings
The Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), supported a motion in Friday’s Special Sitting of the Senate which called for full and equal representation on the Senate Inquiry of all five parties now represented within the Senate. The motion was never presented, however, since the churches’ representative, Senator Ashley Rocke presented another motion, which had the support of the Government’s senators. Senator Rocke’s motion was for a 2:1:3 make-up. In a press release issued after the sitting, BCCI said that the motion contained provisions within its terms of reference, designed to thoroughly investigate the contents of the Auditor General’s Special Audit into the Immigration Department. That investigation would identify deficiencies and prevent corruption. PUP Senator Eamon Courtenay tried to get his motion passed to excuse Godwin Hulse, who is also the Minister of Police and Immigration, from the proceedings.

US South Command chief visits Belize
Admiral Kurt Walter Tidd, Commander of United States (US) Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), has left Belize after completing a two-day visit. Tidd met with Commander Belize Defence Force (BDF) Brigadier General David Jones and Chief of the Guatemalan Armed Force’s defence staff, Major General Juan Manuel Perez Ramirez. The meeting took place at the Caracol Mayan temple in the Mountain Pine Ridge late Thursday. The purpose of the meeting was to encourage dialogue and cooperation on border issues between Belize and Guatemala. The armed forces’ role in regards to regional security was also a topic. Tidd and US Ambassador to Belize, Carlos Moreno met with key officials in the Ministry of Defence including Minister John Saldivar and others, to discuss US support to the BDF and Coast Guard and joint collaboration of operational and training activities between the two countries.

Matthew finally turns northwards: threatens Haiti, Jamaica
Hurricane Matthew has finally turned northwards from the westerly traxknit was on, and is now threatening to hit Haiti, Cuba and Jamaica on Monday. The hurricane had meteorologists uncertain of its projected path because of a variety of weather conditions affecting it. Matthew is expected to inch slowly through the Bahamas for several days before affecting parts of the US coast next weekend. Hurricane warnings are in effect for eastern Cuba, Haiti and Jamaica. Hurricane watches were issued early Sunday morning for the Turks and Caicos and southeast Bahamas. Hurricane Matthew is now moving generally north-northwestward as an extremely dangerous Category 4 hurricane. It is located about 320 miles south-southwest of Port-au-Prince, Haiti.

DFC holds Productive Sector Expo
The Development Finance Corporation (DFC), held its Productive Sector Expo on Saturday at the ITVET Courtyard in Belize City. The event featured more than 30 booths from private companies who are clients/supporters of DFC. These included energy-saving companies which produce solar panels, juice companies, people in the arts and craft industry, among others. The DFC’s mission is to expand and strengthen the economy by providing financing for economically sustainable and environmentally acceptable projects to individuals or groups seeking the financing.

Breaking Belize News

Hit and run in Benque Viejo
A hit and run accident is being reported in Benque Viejo tonight. A man is seriously injured to the right side of his forehead as a result. Reports are that the accident occurred near the Western border. A car knocked down a man who […]

Will pre-school teachers receive pension?
.Pre-school teachers are concerned because the Ministry of Education informed them in a meeting on September 28, that they will not receive any pension or gratuity when they retire. Early childhood educators are disappointed as they were informed that they will only be paid for […]

BNTU proceeds with industrial action
The Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) announced last week its plan of industrial action. The union has been to several meetings negotiating with the Prime Minister. However, the cry for good governance practices as outlined in their letter with eight demands that was sent […]

Murder in Orange Walk
Reports reaching BBN is that a man was murdered today in front of a residence on Palmer road in the Louisiana area of Orange walk. It is believed that the man got into an altercation with another man who inflicted the fatal stab wounds on […]

CWU stands in solidarity with BNTU
Following a Saturday meeting of the Christian Workers Union’s executive board and committee in Belize City, the Union has sent a statement of solidarity with the Belize National Teachers’ Union in their action planned for tomorrow in their ongoing Stand Up for Belize Campaign, centered on […]

UDP holds National Party Council meeting amid national crisis
Members of the ruling United Democratic Party’s National Party Council met Saturday at the party’s headquarters at Youth for the Future Drive in Belize City. While it was a regular meeting, it came amidst the planned strike by the Belize National Teachers’ Union on […]

BNTU calls Monday meeting of branches
President of the Belize District Branch of the Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU), Kathleen Flowers, has announced via Facebook that teachers going on strike on Monday are being asked to report to their respective branch offices for a meeting at 1:30 in the […]

Minister of State Barnett: Economy will recover; taxes will not be raised
Newly appointed Minister of State for Finance; former Financial Secretary, and former vice-president at the Caribbean Development Bank, Dr. Carla Barnett, addressed reporters on Friday on the current state of the economy. The country has just completed its Article IV consultation with the International […]

When Teachers Strike: I Am Here for Them, Where Are You?
Teachers are not audiobooks. They are not recordings of interesting facts or fascinating literature which students sit and listen to, idly passing time. Teachers are bridges. They close the gap between ignorance and intelligence – schooling our children in the vital art of critical […]

Blogs

This Week Ahead: Seven Things
This coming week is a surprisingly busy one – the first week of October, the midst of the slow season. Who would have guessed? So, in an attempt to get just a step ahead of my arch-enemy procrastination, here is a list of seven things I plan to do this week. A week that includes working with BelizeKids.org on our new Vision Center… helping to get ready for the very first guests at Cayo Frances Farm & Fly (owned by my boyfriend Jeff) and…speaking of my boyfriend…MOVING! I am moving from “town” – or 1.5 miles south of the town center – to North Ambergris Caye. 7 miles north to be exact. Just north of Xtan Ha Resort. Cha-cha-cha-changes. So here are few things I NEED to get done and a few I want to get done this very first week in October.

International Sources

40 trips you should take before you turn 30
You're not young and free forever. Your 20s are an ideal time to take on some adventure and travel to faraway places. Chances are you'll end up having some wild experiences that you'll never forget. From partying at the world's largest Carnival in Rio de Janeiro to paragliding in New Zealand, here are the trips you should take when you can still handle the thrill. Wade through the Actun Tunichil Muknal cave in Belize. The cave is full of ancient artifacts such as bones and pots; there's even a full skeleton of a 1,000-year-old human.

Videos

October 2, 2016

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

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, Rise and Shine Morning Show, and the Dickie Bradley Specials

The San Pedro Sun

Thrive youth empowerment group kicks off!
On Wednesday, September 28th “Thrive”– a new empowerment program founded by Britney Travis was introduced. The mission of the program is to not only motivate adolescent girls to gain positive self-confidence and self-esteem, but to serve as an outlet for all youth to express themselves safely and wholesomely. Students from San Pedro High School (SPHS), and Miss San Pedro 2016-2017, Marisha Thompson, made their way to the Lions Den at 4PM, where the meeting began with fun icebreaker games. Following the games, attendants participated in “Spa Day”, where the girls were treated to massages, facials, hand scrubs, manicure, pedicures, headband crafts and hairstyling. Held under the On Eagle Wings Ministries, Travis was inspired to work alongside island youth. Since Travis was previously involved in SHINE, a program spearheaded by Michelle Nuñez (Former Miss San Pedro 2014-2015), she has embarked in starting her own group to benefit the younger generation of La Isla Bonita. “I have worked with young people for more than 10 years. I have the heart for their stage of life because they are just in an impressionable place, trying to figure out what the next steps are in life. I feel like it is so important at this stage for others to become mentors and leaders in order to guide them on the right path,” said Travis.

Patricia Marin receives George Price Service to the People Award
Saturday, September 24th marked the celebration of the People’s United Party (PUP) 66th Anniversary. The PUP National Party Council met at the Belize Elementary School auditorium in Belize City, where Opposition Party Leader, Honorable John Briceño, delivered an inspiring message reaffirming the Party’s commitment to the country of Belize. All recently elected PUP Village Council Chairpersons across Belize were in attendance, and each chairperson was given a special congratulatory award on their victory. In addition, 31 George Price Service to the People Awards were given to long-serving, and deserving PUP members. Patricia Marin of San Pedro Town was the first woman to receive this special award in the Belize Rural South constituency.

San Pedro BTIA members participate in Social Media Seminar
Members of the San Pedro Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) benefited from a Social Media seminar hosted by the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) and the BTIA. Held on Tuesday, September 27th at the Banyan Bay Conference room, the seminar was geared at digital media tactics used to promote the island’s tourism product. From 9:30PM to 4PM, participants learned how to properly use the different Social Media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pintrest to maximise the promotion of their products. Presenters for the day included BTB’s Direct Online Manager, Maynor Larrieu and Digital Marketing Officer, Perry Bodden. In today’s ever-evolving technology, social media has become an integral part of a business’ marketing plan, especially for those in the tourism and hospitality industry. Social media allows businesses to reach consumers from all over the world by using creative and unique methods. Both BTIA and BTB believe that such seminars strengthen Belize’s tourism product.

What ever happened to BTIA’s attempt to standardize taxis?
It’s been nine months since the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) San Pedro Branch president Melanie Paz put forth a goal to develop a standardization plan for taxi services on the island. The plan was to be a collaboration between the BTIA, Mayor Daniel Guerrero, and the local taxi associations. Since the majority of traffic issues entail speeding taxis and driver misconduct, people are wondering when this plan will take action. According to Paz, due to limited participation from taxi drivers, the plan has not been enacted. The few that have cooperated have promised to gather relevant information to establish a mutual agreement. “We have hosted meetings, but only a few taxi drivers showed up. We have also asked for information regarding their licenses. To be honest, we have not gotten anywhere with it. We have not been successful in getting their input to see what they would like,” said Paz.

Ambergris Today

Belize Stands Tall, Top 5 at Miss America Latina del Mundo Pageant
In an exciting Live Stream video witnessed all over the world, Belizean fans cheered on for their representative and native of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, Michelle Nuñez (Miss San Pedro 2014), as she secured the 5th position among 39 contestants at the Miss America Latina del Mundo pageant that was held last night, September 30, 2016, at the Occidental Xcaret, Riviera Maya, Mexico. Miss Peru was crowned the 2016 Miss America Latina. It was a social media event as Michelle kept her fans, friends and family updated with her journey at the Miss America Latina through her Snapchat account, Facebook and Miss America Latina Belize 2016 Facebook Page; she was there for a week enjoying the Mexican hospitality. People from all over the world tuned in on pageant night as it was streamed live on Ambergris Today’s Facebook page.

Misc Belizean Sources

Congratulations to Victoria House!
The 2016 Champions of the 6-A-Side Inter-Office Football Tournament!!

Miss América Latina del Mundo pageant
In case you missed it, last night Michelle Estrella Nuñez gave Belize our highest ever finish at Miss America Latina del Mundo. Not only did Michelle place in the Top 10, she went on to place in the Top 5 and finished as 4th Runner-up. She also captured the award for Most Original Costume, for a costume designed by the GMX crew of Orange Walk. Congratulations Michelle and thank you for a job very well done.

FIVB Qualification Tournament
Congratulations Team Belize - winner of the bronze medal in the FIVB Qualification Tournament. GO BELIZE!!!!

National Evangelical Association of Belize on Senator Rocke
The National Evangelical Association of Belize President Rev. Lance Lewis says that NEAB and its 250+ national churches expresses its extreme dissatisfaction and disappointment at the actions of Senator Ashley Rocke in the Senate meeting Fri. Sept 30th.It is clear that Senator Rocke represents the minuscule number of pastors that nominated him, and not the larger body of national Churches. The Senate Committee is now positioned to accomplish absolutely nothing of any kind of needed accountability. It's a sad day for Belize democracy.

Statement from Belize Teachers' Union - Corozal Town Branch
Prime Minister Barrow and his government have made every effort to intimidate, lie and threaten the teachers, parents and public. Please be guided by facts. 1. The BNTU continues and will continue to fight for the 3% salary adjustment that the GOB had AGREED to pay the teachers. 2. The BNTU DOES NOT HAVE A POLITICAL AGENDA. The 8 points that we have presented and discussed with the Prime Minister are issues that have not only impacted the teachers negatively; but also our country. Because of the existing corruption, our country is in a financial mess and is unable to meet its obligations. Hiding behind Hurricane Earl is inexcusable. 3. Our 8 points not only impact good governance, but also RESPECT FOR THE WORKER. The OSH Bill would have protected our Corozaleño who perished recently at the Central park because of poor safety standards. Many workers, like farmers, are exposed to serious health hazards without any protection. Proposal 22 is also dear to us because of the unjust action of MINISTER FABER who removed it BY THE STROKE OF A PEN from the Education Rules. Removing it means that now Non-teaching staff from grant aided schools be denied the same benefits as the Non-teaching staff from government schools. Equality for all.

Cahal Pech Archaeology Day
The Institute of Archaeology and the National Institute of Culture and History are celebrating International Archaeology Day at Cahal Pech on Friday, October 14th, from 10:00am to 3:00pm. Learn all about the Maya, and see one of the coolest sites in Belize, and the best one for playing hide and seek. They'll have activities for the kids, including mock excavations and interactive games.

Planting trees
While trees are being planted by 9 partner communities in Guatemala, here in Belize trees are also being planted near the Mopan River. Bullet Tree Police Cadets conducted tree planting today in that village.

The Reporter

Matthew now a category 4 hurricane, still heading west
The most powerful hurricane to grace thr Caribbean since 2007, Matthew, is now a category 4 hurricane, after it became a powerful caregory 5 early this morning Matthew is still on a course heading due west, with winds estimated to be around 155 miles per hour (mph), and at its peak, was as powerful as Hurricane Gilbert which ripped through Jamaica in 1988. This morning, the hurricane inundated Colombia as it churned through the northern tip of South America. Heavy flooding was reported and authorities say at least one person was swept away by a flash flood in a region that has not experienced rainfall in four years. Jamaica could begin to feel the effects of Matthew as early as today but the hurricane is expected to make landfall in the eastern part of that country on Monday, if it shifts northwards as meteorologists expect it to. Forecasters say that rainfall could reach 10 to 15 inches with some areas of Jamaica and Haiti getting 25 inches.

Teachers finalize plans to strike Monday
The over 6,000 members who make up the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) will strike on Monday. At a press conference Friday afternoon, BNTU executive confirmed their plans following a Council of Management meeting earlier in the day. BNTU president, said the membership is fully behind the decision. “Contrary to what the other side is saying, we have massive support for the actions we are taking. We are saying to our teachers stay tuned to the media, we will be giving you updates accordingly.” The teachers are striking on the basis of conflict over demands it has made of the government on national issues and Palacio warned that they will sustain their position for as long as is necessary. National Secretary of the Union, Endevora Jergenson, explained that: “The two big demands are…for the signing for the UNCAC (United Nations Convention against Corruption); we need to eliminate corruption. We’ve been fighting this for years and years and it is wrong. It was wrong in 2005 and it is still wrong. So we need to correct it. …We also call for the 13th Senator. It is our Prime Minister who signed and asked and requested and lobbied for the 13th Senator. Now he tells us he cannot fulfil it, because a 13th senator will paralyze his government. What is he?”

The Belize Times

UNION BUSTING! – MoE Moves to Intimidate Teachers
Education officials led by Minister Patrick Faber during a three-hour meeting at the ITVET compound in Belize City with general managers, secondary school principals and board chairs of secondary schools presented their plan to keep classes open despite industrial action announced by the Belize National Teachers’ Union for Monday October 3rd. The intention of the Ministry is to sign - by Sunday October 2nd - a Statutory Instrument (SI) that will see temporary replacement teachers hold over in the classrooms starting as early as Wednesday October 5th. According to Minister Patrick Faber, those “temporary” teachers will include “teachers who have not really entered the teaching profession yet but are in the teacher education institutions and they want to do an internship…so they don’t have a license yet; they don’t meet the requirements yet but this allows them to go into the classrooms to teach. It also covers these volunteer groups coming from church groups who come into the country and who want to operate in our schools on a voluntary basis or to impart some kind of special knowledge to the children.” Interestingly, even those teachers who were dismissed this past summer because they lacked the required training and certification can be hired as temporary replacement teachers. Retired teachers and even parents of good repute in the community will also be tapped, according to Faber.

Mother Nature’s Best Kept (Dirty) Secret
As we go to press, there is no indication that the Belize Police Department has moved to round up persons who appeared on a recent Showtime documentary entitled Gringo – The Dangerous Life of John McAfee. Incredibly, a Showtime film crew was able to travel to Belize for a few weeks and solve not one, but two murders. Not only that, but they got confessions on camera, as well as detailed descriptions of how both murders occurred. One man, McAfee’s driver, describes quite casually how he was given instructions to round up thugs to beat down a man from Carmelita who had offended McAfee, and how he went about it. Another man, his face disguised, described how the victim, David Middleton, was cruelly tortured before being dumped in a street in Carmelita. Middleton died from that beating, described on camera.

WE DEMAND GOOD GOVERNANCE
On the occasion of the 66th Birthday of the People’s United Party, and in a political and social climate overwhelmed by corruption and abuse by our leaders, on Thursday the PUP will launch the first policy paper of its new administration entitled Good Governance – A Shared Responsibility. The statement of commitment by the Party could not have come at a more pertinent time, as the BNTU and other organizations prepare for industrial action against an unyielding government which refuses to act against the documented corruption within its ranks. According to PUP Leader John Briceño, “If we are to improve governance in Belize it must be done not just in what we say, but also in what we do…We will have good governance if we respect and believe fervently in the Rule of Law, Accountability, and Transparency…”

Zika spreads to all districts except Corozal – Six pregnant women infected
In May 2016, Belize confirmed its first Zika case– the victim, a Belize City woman. Four months later, the virus has spread to every district except Corozal.Because the Ministry of Health has identified priority groups as children under 5, the elderly and pregnant women, out of 581 suspected cases from both public and private medical institutions only 305 samples have been sent for testing. Of the 177 results received 46 are positive for Zika, among them, 6 pregnant women. These latest figures were presented today at a press conference by experts from the Ministry of Health. The Belize District leads infections with 262 suspected cases and 21 confirmed infections. Cayo follows with 125 suspected cases, 13 of them positive. However, Toledo with 7 positive cases has the highest rate of infection with 2 confirmed Zika cases per 10,000 people. Five of the pregnant women with Zika come from Cayo while the other is a Belize City resident. Three already gave birth, and according to Dr. Natalia Largaespada-Beer, technical advisor of the Maternal and Child Health Unit, the newborns so far “haven’t shown any consequences of the Zika virus infection. But the recommendation currently is to follow up these infants up to three years.” The concern is for the possible development of microcephaly which can be caused by Zika.

THINK ABOUT IT!
It has come to this. Dean “whiff of corruption” Barrow is attacking the President and Executive of the Teachers Union. He is not as crude as Patrick Faber who publicly insulted the teachers and called their President a PUP…then threatened any and all teachers with a salary deduction if they dared to march in last Monday protest. Mr. Barrow’s threat was insidious and a tragedy. He mentioned in his video message how all the social partners and most of the other Unions had compromised and agreed with his various proposals – all but the BNTU. It is an obvious attempt to isolate the BNTU and prepare public opinion for the attack which will be coming. That attack will feature an application for an ex-parte injunction in the Supreme Court to prevent any protest or industrial action this coming Monday or any other day for that matter. The BNTU needs to quickly sit with their attorneys and discuss their limited legal options.

Tin-pot Dictator
It is with no regret that we announce the death of all trust and faith in Prime Minister Dean Barrow and his UDP administration. Mr. Barrow asked us to imagine the possibilities in 2008, and while we as a people do not lack imagination, nothing could have prepared us for what we face today – a government devoid of integrity, morality or decency, and a people devoid of hope under this UDP. Mr. Barrow’s video statement released on Sunday is telling. He seemed more like a petulant child than the leader of the nation, sulking because the representatives of the BNTU would not give him a lollipop and coddle him or give in to his tantrums. At times during the nine minute statement, he seemed unable to comprehend that nobody wanted to eat his rotten carrot, and nobody was afraid of his little stick. The Prime Minister does not understand that the shine has worn off and he has been revealed as nothing more than a pathetic tin-pot dictator. The nation needs a purge. It has become sick. We have become Mother Nature’s best kept dirty secret. Just ask John McAfee or William Danny Mason or David Nanes Schnitzer or Wonhong Kim, if you can find him. We have become an easy option for the corrupt, a corruption resort and a playground for the corrupt. Why? Because our people in power are so eminently corruptible!

SCA Volleyball Girls Win 3 at XIX CODICADER Games
St Catherine Academy volleyball girls are 3 – 1 and one win away from a medal, after winning 3 games in 4 outings at the 19th CODICADER Students’ Games at the Jose S. Ancona H. Sports Complex in Tegucigalpa from Friday to Monday, September 22-25.On Monday morning the SCA girls dominated Panama: 3-0. Kori Diego and Mya Musa led the attack with the help of Annika Brown, Aya Safa and Amber Marin, spiking home points on balls set by Alyanah Musa and libero Kiara Smith. Zazie Mckenzie, Kaylene Flowers, Alexis Burn and Aliyah Alvarez came off the bench to help win the 3 sets: 25-17, 25-18, 25-15.

Belmopan Bandits are No. 1 in PLB Football
Belmopan Bandits are No.1 in the Premier League of Belize with back to back wins in Week 6 and 7 of the opening season. The Bandits posted their 4th win: 4-1 vs. Wagiya at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium on Tuesday, Sept.20. Ian Gaynair scored the 1st goal in the 42nd minute, and Brazilian import Aloisio Teixeira scored the 2nd goal in the 48th minute and the 3rd goal in the 66th minute. Ian Gaynair scored the 4th goal in the 91st minute. Wagiya’s Evan Mariano scored in the 92nd minute.On Independence eve at the Michael Ashcroft Stadium, Verdes FC and the Placencia Assassins drew 1-1, with Verdes’ Darrel Myvette scoring in the 6th minute, and Placencia’s Ashton Torres equalized in the 90th minute.

Team Belize Wins Gold at 19th CODICADER Games
Belizean athletes won 1 gold, 2 silver and 1 bronze medal at the 19th CODICADER Students Games at the National Autonomous University of Honduras (UNAH) in Tegucigalpa last week from Thursday to Saturday September 22-24. Female triple jumpAshanti Carr won Gold at 11.86 meters Female long jumpAshanti Carr won Silver at 5.40 meters(Personal record – 5:44m) Female 4 x 100 meter relayBelize – silver: Ashanti and Ashonti Carr, Hillary Gladden and Faith Morris.

Education Officials Sic Police on Media
This morning, as media personnel waited outside the meeting room at the ITVET in Belize City to conduct interviews, officials from the Ministry of Education ordered the Police to remove them from the area. Amandala’s Micah Goodin and Krem’s News Director Marisol Amaya were harassed by Police who told Goodin, incredibly, that he was loitering.Goodin and Amaya refused to move, informing the officers that they were just doing their job. That’s when reinforcements from the Eastern Division Northside Strike Team were called in and the media opted to leave.

Questions to Ministers
Could the Member for Queen Square and Prime Minister provide information on all the new foreigners who have been hired at BTL to replace Belizeans? Could he further say how much these foreigners are being paid? Could the Member for Queen Square and Prime Minister say how it feels to be distrusted by the Belizean public, and could he explain how it feels to know that this UDP administration under his watch will be regarded as the most corrupt in Belize’s political history? Could the Member for Collet and Minister of Education say why he has been left out of all negotiations with the BNTU? Could he say if because of his distasteful actions lately the Prime Minister has put him on a time-out or is it that the PM knows the Union will not respect him? Could the unelected Minister of Police provide a status report on the so-called, alleged investigation into the withholding of evidence by Police in the Pakeman traffic case, and also the matter of the tampering with the blood sample of the victim?

If Dah Noh Soh
Since I’ve pretty much been around and been used and misused and abused, I felt kinda stupid not knowing what scat sex is. Hell, all these lil village girls in that absolutely amazing Gringo documentary seemed to be scat sex-perts. So I turned to my spiritual and social advisor, Google and typed it in. Not to be disappointed, my friend Google had videos and I had to go frigging look. Dammit. I am now traumatized for life. I could have lived out the rest of my days without seeing that s#*t, like literally. And since I’m on this subject, I’m never going to lie in a hammock again, hole or no hole. Hell, I may never have sex again. That’s how traumatized I am. You’re a sick man, John McAfee.
So Nanette Burstein, a film director, comes to Belize for a couple weeks and solves two murders. That damned woman needs to be made the Commissioner of Police. Hell, let’s make her the Minister of Police. She got one man to go on camera and explain how he picked up three guys to go beat up this other guy. Then she got this other guy to explain how they tortured the victim…who died by the way. But Nanette’s an over-achiever, so she hopped onto a plane and solved another murder, just like that. She got another guy to explain how he deposited money into the killer’s account and how he picked up the killer after the deed was done. She even got the killer on camera for good measure. So here’s the thing though. Nanette solved the murders, but the Belize Police haven’t gotten around to picking up these people yet. Don’t worry, they probably will, but I hear the ComPol is waiting for Showtime to send him a copy of the documentary.

United Against Corruption – SOLIDARITY!
The right of peaceful protest is a crucial part of any democratic society. Protesters can look to a number of different rights as set out in the human rights act: the right to peaceful assembly; the right to freedom of expression; the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; and the right to privacy. We are at a crossroads within our society with some of our present government ministers and supporters being caught participating in some dubious actions that are not being properly addressed by the Prime Minister as the leader of the government.The present impasse between the UDP government and the Belize National Teacher’s Union is about much more than the long delayed increment that should have been paid since April 2016. As a responsible union whose members are tasked with preparing our future leaders, it is only fitting that they are fighting against what we perceive as the social injustice we all face. Whenever corruption occurs, the cost is always being borne not by the government but rather by the entire population as it is only through the collection of taxes that the government can function.

Thinking Out Loud
The teachers of this country have been abandoned by the other unions whose leaders seem unconcerned about the corruption which is tearing apart this country and cheating our poorest Belizeans of the benefits which should be theirs. The PSU and APSSM don’t seem to give a damn – they’ve decided to sit this one out. The utility unions are more concerned with Section 53, apparently, than in getting rid of corruption. Likewise the Church seems to have backed out of the equation after the PM agreed to appeal Section 53, and the Chamber seems content to do its negotiations behind closed doors with the PM, so I’m not sure what’s happening there. I want to take this opportunity to say how proud I am of the thousands of teachers who stood up in Belmopan last week, and are still standing strong even though GOB has pulled out all the stops to attack and intimidate them. The BNTU has been accused of being all about the raise, but now the entire nation can see that our teachers are serious about fighting for structures to keep this government, and any subsequent government in check.

Independence Day Address
Thirty-five years ago today the Father of our Nation the Rt. Hon. George Price said and I quote:“Belize is a people with all the attributes of nationhood having one flag, one government, one constitution. Our mind imbues the democratic process. Our hand works the mixed economy. Our heart beats with social justice and our soul cherishes treasures of the spirit.”Today is a day to reflect and remember those audacious words for they capture the very essence of our identity. They define us as a people who desire to live free, and who work to build a fair, just and better nation. And we will continue to do so.

MY PERSPECTIVE – WHOSE MORALITY??
I have not written about Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Patrick Faber since he assumed that high office earlier this year. But there is no way we can let him off the hook. It is a veritable crying shame that such an individual holds the second most important executive position in the government. He just can’t behave himself!! It looks too as if most of the misbehaviour comes when he is in his cups with Devil Juice. I have to think that getting him to behave is as difficult as putting the proverbial genie back in the bottle from which it emerged once it was uncorked. Where is the accountability for this latest incident of his government-issued SUV ending up in the Caribbean Sea just off Marine Parade? I grew up in that vicinity, and back then we certainly did not see any fancy rides submerged near Memorial Park or the old Belize City Hospital.

THE SLAM-DUNK PRAYER THAT LANDED IN HEAVEN
It came from center court and with a play never seen nor heard in such a public arena. It came from a man of the cloth-and without incense and holy water.Bishop Christopher Glancy of the Roman Catholic Diocese was invited by the National Celebrations Committee -an official sideshow- to deliver the prayer at the official ceremonies marking the 35th anniversary of Belize’s independence.And pray he did!As a leading clergyman his prayer may have been inspired by the gospel of Luke. In the scriptures the disciples asked their Lord to teach them how to pray.

A Whole Lot of NOTHING…!
Though brilliantly articulate, I am not certain that the PM was able to stir any glimmer of hope in the Belizean populace with his 2016 Independence Day Address. He was forced to acknowledge our grim economic reality – a real situation suffered and lived on a daily basis by the ordinary struggling Belizean.“But it is also a recession for which I must say at once, we will absolutely recover,” said the PM as if by his sheer willpower Belize will pull out of this situation. “Citrus prices are robust and ticking up and the ONLY (my highlight) challenge now is financing for increased production.” That is akin to me saying that the ONLY reason that I am not a lawyer is because I didn’t study law! “The banana industry was indeed badly hit by the hurricane, but THOSE hardy farmers in the south are doing all they can to accelerate the recovery.” Take note of the PM’s choice of the third person pronoun “those.” He didn’t say “we” thus effectively telling the farmers: “you deh pan u own.”

GOB Reneges on its Own Accommodation Agreement
The Government of Belize and the Ashcroft Group of companies have until tomorrow, Thursday, to iron out on their own a compromise over differences of interpretation in the Barrow Accommodation Agreement signed in September, 2015. If they do not, the Caribbean Court of Justice will hand down a decision which is very likely to be a costly one for Government. The issue arose over the mishandling by GOB of the Barrow Accommodation Agreement with the Ashcroft Alliance. So now, they – and by extension, the Belizean public – are being sued once again at the Caribbean Court of Justice, all because they are refusing to honour the terms of the commitment Mr. Barrow made.

The Worst is Yet to Come
With much fanfare and little substance the UDP launched its election campaign with the slogan, “The best is yet to come!” while at the same time it spent on extravagance (remember the tacos party in Corozal courtesy of the present Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Faber?) with no long term benefits to the country.A little over 10 months into their third term, our once vibrant economy has come to a screeching halt! During his Independence Day speech, Prime Minister Barrow had to finally admit that the country is facing a recession and GOB may need to increase taxes. According to the latest IMF Report which was released on Monday, the economic forecast for Belize’s economy is no rosy picture and that entity has urged GOB to increase the General Sales Tax (GST). The IMF said addressing these issues “will be important moving forward.” It noted that GDP growth slowed to 1% in 2015 and turned to negative 1.5% in the first half of 2016 due to falling oil production and reduced output in primary commodity sectors. According to the IMF, inflation was also up in early 2016 with higher food prices and the hike GOB put on fuel tax.

Parlance & Politicking…Promises vs. Delivery!
Prime Minister Dean O. Barrow has addressed the nation for 9 consecutive years, every September 21st since being elected to office in 2008. The highlight of the traditional pomp and circumstance featuring the hues of red, white and blue, is the expected juxtaposed statement of the Leader of the Opposition and the Prime Minister’s state of the nation address. But just 10 months into his third term in office, and under the weight of sobering public pressure from calls for good governance and the burden of increasing economic hardships, this year, instead of his characteristic and skilful embellishments, Barrow was forced into moderated pronouncements.From the onset he referenced challenges for the nation. His Independence Day gift, a gesture started in 2013 was conspicuously missing. Instead in 2016, he had to admit that Belize is in recession.

BARROW UNDER PRESSURE…BUT STILL WON’T LISTEN!
The Barrow Government and their agents are currently trying their very best to discredit the teachers who are not backing down on their stance against corruption in public life. The Belize National Teachers Union will once again stage a nationwide strike, staying out of the classroom and effectively shutting down schools. It could very well turn out to be an extended action which starts on Monday, October 3. It will likely continue until the Union is sure that the Prime Minister and his Cabinet gets the message. The teachers will not tolerate corruption, or superficial cosmetic changes from Barrow. They mean that they want change, and in this current climate of distrust, they’ll certainly want it in black and white, with a concrete timeline and witnesses for god measure.

Breaking Belize News

Belizean Students’ Association of Jamaica prepare for Matthew
The Belizean Students’ Association of Jamaica has sent out a press release to note that there are currently sixty three (63) Belizean students residing in Kingston that will be directly affected by Hurricane Matthew. Matthew is a category 4 hurricane that is scheduled to make […]

UB supports BNTU
The faculty and staff of University of Belize in a letter dated Friday September 30, 2016 expressed its full support for the BNTU’s strike action. In its letter, UB said that as educators, they are tasked to producing socially responsible graduates. They said that they […]

Hurricane Matthew to hit Jamaica
Hurricane Matthew remains a powerful hurricane in the Caribbean sea. It is expected to turn north toward Jamaica tomorrow morning and make landfall in Jamaica on Monday. After making landfall in Jamaica on Monday, the eastern part of Cuba could see a direct hit later […]

BPP celebrate its 1st Anniversary
The Belize Progressive Party (BPP) today celebrated its first anniversary. The party says that it is “The New Political Consciousness of Belize”. In commemoration of this occasion, the party has chosen to provide a community service to senior citizens. The BPP will visit three […]

National Evangelical Association of Belize disappointed at Senator Rocke’s actions
The National Evangelical Association of Belize (NEAB) sent out a release today expressing extreme dissatisfaction and disappointment at the actions of Senator Ashley Rocke in the Senate meeting Friday September 30th. NEAB represents over 250 churches. The release says that it is clear that Senator […]

BPP supports BNTU
The Belize Progressive Party issued a release yesterday expressing their ‘unequivocal’ support for the BNTU’s industrial action. The release states that the BPP’s solidarity with the teachers is grounded on their core principles of fostering and adhering to championing good governance practices. “Given the reality […]

Chamber of Commerce supports BNTU
The Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) issued a release yesterday outlining their support for BNTU’s issues of Governance. The release states that the BCCI through its senate representative was advised to support a motion calling for full and equal representation on the […]

Blogs

Spooky Season is here!
Full confession: I’m a Halloween baby, so I am in heaven from October 1st through the 31st. There’s something about the decorations, fun clothing and general air of festivity. Heck, even the culture and traditional ties to the theme can be a learning experience. I indulge in the fun and pretend everyone’s celebrating ME! Phew…with that out of the way…let’s talk about the upcoming craziness that October brings! Yes, we take Halloween seriously. Weather-wise, it’s sunny 99% of the time, the winds are blowing in, hinting at some version of fall in the Caribbean. Costumes may get hot, but it’s so fun to dress up…heck, even the DOGS get into the spirit! “Trick or Treat!” cute little faces painted or covered in masks, their high pitched voices calling for some sweet goodies from the neighbors nearby. From kind neighbors who just want their littlest friends to have some fun, to businesses organizing parties…it’s all about the kids!

BNTU- More Passion Less Reason by: Aria Lightfoot
Teaching remains one of the most respected and noble professionals in Belize and lets face it, teachers possess a great deal of influence over our children and spend a great deal of time educating and molding our children and the future of Belize. If the average teacher has twenty children, spending an average of eight hours a day, it means that a teacher is working with about 160 hours of children time per day or 3200 hours per month of children time. If teachers make an average of $1500.00 a month, teachers are being paid about 46 cents an hour per child. When you break down a teacher’s salary, you get a clearer picture of how truly underpaid these professional are. While children are an investment for the future of Belize, public schools are not self sustaining because they do not generate real income especially in parts of Belize where families struggle to make ends meet; they struggle to pay school fees and struggle to buy the necessary uniforms, books and equipment. The state uses redistributive taxes from income tax, taxes from products and services to provide income for teachers and administrators, to build and maintain schools, to pay electricity, water and other bills. Studies show that the more affluent a neighborhood, the better the kids from those schools will perform because parents are then able to subsidize those deficiencies that the state in unable to provide.

International Sources

Jamaica, Long Opposed to Marijuana, Now Wants to Cash In on It
Jamaica has long bemoaned its reputation as the land of ganja. It has enforced draconian drug laws and spent millions on public education to stem its distinction as a pot mecca. But its role as a major supplier of illicit marijuana to the United States and its international image — led by the likes of Bob Marley, whose Rastafarian faith considers smoking up a religious act — have been too strong to overcome. Now, its leaders smell something else: opportunity. Having watched states like Colorado and California generate billions of dollars from marijuana, Jamaica has decided to embrace its herbaceous brand. Rather than arresting and shunning the country’s Rasta population, the Jamaican authorities will leverage it. Beyond decriminalizing the possession of small amounts of marijuana last year, Jamaica has legalized the use of medical marijuana, with its ultimate sights set on “wellness tourism” and the font of money it could bring.

Videos

October 1, 2016

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

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, Rise and Shine Morning Show, and the Dickie Bradley Specials

The San Pedro Sun

National Policy Monitoring Tool launches
On Tuesday, September 27th, the Ministry of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation (MHDSTPA) met at Our Lady of Guadalupe Mercy Centre in Belize City to launch BelizeInfo, a new website that will be used as a national policy monitoring tool for the country. BelizeInfo is a two-tier management information system that came as a result of the Community Action for Public Safety project (CAPS) five years ago. The website publicizes data in a structured manner, and is composed of over 65,000 data values. It is designed to also strengthen the monitoring and evaluation in the country to include: project, sector, thematic, national strategic plans, and the growth and sustainable development strategy.

GOB and churches proceed with appeal of section 53
After Chief Justice Benjamin Kenneth issued his judgement on August 10th, striking down section 53 of the Criminal Code that outlawed sodomy for decades, the Government of Belize (GOB) decided not to appeal the decision. However, after several meetings with members of the Belize Council of Churches (BCC), the Government has now decided to partially appeal the amended criminal code, which the churches have appealed in its entirety. The outcome of the last meeting, held on Friday, September 9th, will now see the Attorney General filing an appeal in the days ahead. GOB’s case will be heard by the superior court individually while allowing all interested parties to appeal Section 53 in its entirety. The part of the ruling that the Government is appealing, according to Prime Minister Dean Barrow, is the piece which deals solely with sex and sexual orientation. “Government will appeal the aspect of the Chief Justice’s decision which extends of expands the definition of sex in the Constitution to include sexual orientation,” said Barrow. “That is the context of the constitutional protection to non-discrimination, which is the position government came to after an extensive review of the judgement and the advice of the Attorney General.”

Help us in building a scrapbook of our memories from the last 25 years
The San Pedro Sun has the incredible opportunity to hold an exhibit honoring its 25th anniversary as the island newspaper. It’s been an honor to be the historian of this community for a quarter century, and we look forward to showcasing some of our fondest moments. It’s you the community that has made us who we are today, and now we ask you to help us in building a scrapbook of our memories from the last 25 years. Call 226-2070, email us at [email protected] or visit our office located upstairs of Love Belize gift shop on Barrier Reef Drive to share what you can with us as we prepare a fabulous showcase for the public.

SPHS Female Basketball Team participates in CODICADER games
Ambergris Caye and Belize were proudly represented by the San Pedro High School (SPHS) female basketball team and sub-champions of the National Secondary Schools Sports Association (NSSSA), at the 19th Under-17, Council for Sports and Recreation of Central America (CODICADER) tournament. They competed valiantly at the sporting event held from September 22nd through September 30th in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. Despite failing to win any games in all six outings, they played their personal best each time they stepped on the court. All members of the team are thankful for the opportunity to represent Belize in the regional competition. They had the experience of a life-time and learned a lot during the competition, and look forward for another opportunity to represent the island and the country.

Hol Chan leads coastal clean up
The Hol Chan Marine Reserve on Ambergris Caye joined the 2016 Coastal Clean Up campaign for the fourth time. The international clean-up movement was spearheaded in Belize by the Belize Scout Association, and while Hol Chan did a massive clean-up on the North Ambergris Caye beach, there are still a lot of reports of illegal dumping in that area. During the weekend of September 24th, students from San Pedro High School and San Pedro Junior College joined members of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve for a day of hard work. The clean-up activity took participants at the island’s northern point, known as Robles – a favorite spot for turtles during the nesting season. To track the success of the clean-up, everyone was provided with a ‘Volunteer’s Ocean Trash Form’ in which all the garbage picked up was categorized and recorded. According to personnel from Hol Chan, this form of recording is done to provide data on the amount of and types of garbage in our water bodies, as well as to compare to clean-up campaigns of previous years. The official statistics for 2015 reported that 16,948 pounds of garbage were collected from the coastal areas countrywide, which accumulated to 39 miles of coastal areas covered by volunteers.

Mayor Guerrero attends instalment of Quintana Roo’s new governor
The neighbouring Mexican State of Quintana Roo has a new governor, Carlos Joaquin Gonzales. He was officially sworn in on Sunday, September 25th, in the state’s capital city of Chetumal where San Pedro’s Mayor Daniel Guerrero, along with a Belizean delegation, attended the grand ceremony at the state’s Hall. After delivering his message, the Governor invited his special invited guests to a feast in which he spoke to the Belizean delegation. Governor Gonzales and Deputy Prime Minister Faber briefly spoke on the long standing relationship between Belize and Mexico and their commitment to working together. Next to speak and congratulate the new Governor were the different mayors from Belize, including Mayor Guerrero. They all committed to foster good relationship between their municipalities and the state of Quintana Roo. Gonzales will hold the title of State Governor for six years.

Ambergris Today

Lady Dixie Bowen Inducted in Brentwood High School Hall of Fame
Lady Dixie Bowen was among six inductees into the Brentwood High School Hall of Fame Class of 2016, that took place on Friday, September 16, 2016, at Brentwood Missouri. She was nominated by Brentwood Alumni Association for being an exemplary alumna of the school. Lady Dixie just recently arrived from her trip back to her hometown to receive the recognition. She graduated from Brentwood High School, Brentwood Missouri in 1970, and her early travels on a scuba diving trip to San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize resulted in Dixie Bowen falling in love with the island that she now calls her home. In 1995 her dream of building a private school on the island for local children became a reality. Dixie credits Brentwood High School as the foundation for her success. The guidance and enthusiasm provided by the faculty and staff in her young live always stayed with her. Today, at the Island Academy, she continues to apply the principles and disciples of those formative years with her entire student body.

Misc Belizean Sources

SBDC Workshop: MARKETING YOUR PRODUCT
Presented by: Mr. Jorge Gentle. Location: BTEC Training Room, ITVET Compound, Free Town Road, Belize City. Workshop Date: October 6th, 2016. Time: 9am to 12noon. The objective of this workshop is to stress the importance of selling, branding, labeling and packaging when marketing your product. Objectives include: Highlighting the importance of branding as a marketing tool, stress the importance of developing a good brand strategy ad, consequently an effective brand, importance of labeling as a marketing tool, Provide participants with the tools to develop an attractive label that conforms to Belize's labeling standard, Highlight the importance of packaging as a marketing tool. To sign up for the workshop contact our office at 223-315 or email us at [email protected]. Cost: $30.00, Includes snacks and refreshments.

2016 Coastal Cleanup on Ambergris Caye
Thanks to students of San Pedro Highschool and San Pedro Junior College who participated in this year's Beach Cleanup.

Silky sharks are in trouble and need your support at CITES!
We are getting close to voting day for listing Silky sharks on Appendix II at CITES. This will finally help to regulate the international trade in a species which is seeing rapid declines in populations. Conch is on Appendix II so why not silky sharks which does not even form part of Belize's local fisheries... only the high seas fisheries that are conducted by foreign countries under Belize's registration and flag. Please take a moment to urge our Departments of Forestry and Fisheries to support the listing and align themselves with many supporting countries.

Amazing season for the Scarlet Macaw conservation efforts
Release! My apologies for low quality i-phone pics but we are elated to share that an amazing season for the Scarlet Macaw conservation efforts culminated in the release and reintroduction of 5 hand-reared at risk chicks into the Chiquibul on Wednesday. We are fortunate to still see all 8 chicks released in 2015 thriving, but thanks to our partners from WCS in 2016 we were able to equip one of the chicks with a satellite collar so hopefully we will learn even more how to protect these amazing birds for future generations. The best news of this joint effort: since starting the hand rearing of at risk chicks in 2015 none of the chicks in the monitored area were poached for the pet trade (and all at risk nests were climbed by poachers after extraction!) and the numbers of successfully fledged macaw chicks have more then doubled.

Belize Wildlife & Referral Clinic's annual Gala on Garifuna Settlement Day
The Belize Wildlife and Referral Clinic is having it's 3rd annual Gala on Garifuna Settlement day. They'll be having it at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel, and the dinner will be Garifuna inspired, and as always, lionfish is on the menu. Nov. 19th! Silent auction Gala! A fundraiser event. 6pm, $85. "Join your friends at the Belize Wildlife & Referral Clinic for another Wild Night Out on Garifuna Settlement Day! To reserve tickets call 615-5159 or purchase at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel front desk. RSVP by Nov. 1st. Includes Garifuna inspired Lionfish dinner, silent and live auction and music."

Commander US SOUTHCOM visits Belize
The Commander of United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), Admiral Kurt Walter Tidd concluded a two-day visit to Belize on Thursday September 29th, 2016, with a tripartite meeting held with Commander Belize Defence Force Brigadier General David Jones and Chief of Defence Staff of the Guatemalan Armed Forces, Major General Juan Manuel Perez Ramirez, at Caracol Ruins in the Mountain Pine Ridge Thursday evening. The main purpose of the tripartite meeting was to encourage dialogue and cooperation, particularly on border issues between Belize and Guatemala. Also discussed was the important role that the armed forces must play in regards to regional security. During his stay in Belize Admiral Tidd along with US Ambassador, His Excellency Carlos Moreno, held meetings with key officials within the Ministry of Defence including Minister John Saldivar, CEO Min of Defence, Commandant of the Belize Coast Guard and Commander of the Belize Defence Force, to discuss US support to the BDF and Coast Guard and joint collaboration of operational and training activities between the two countries.

Over 600 Belize City Students Will Soon Benefit from New Queen’s Square Anglican Primary School Project
Ground-breaking Ceremony to officially commence the construction of Queen’s Square Anglican Primary School Substitution Project, Belize City, will be held at the school’s compound at 2:00 pm on Friday September 30, 2016. The Government of Belize in recognition of the critical role of education for social, economic, cultural and political development by way of empowering future leaders with knowledge, skills and values to enhance Belize’s socio-economic development; is funding the construction of the new Queen’s Square Anglican Primary School at an estimated cost of $950,000.00 courtesy of a loan from the Caribbean Development Bank. The completion of the school project means that Belize City students will have greater access to a better learning environment in a newly spacious and pleasant setting; as well as address increasing demand of enrollment and alleviate over-crowding in existing classrooms.

Two 20 minute power interruptions 7:00am to 7:20am & 4:40pm to 5:00pm on Saturday, October 1, 2016: entire Orange Walk & Corozal Districts
BEL to replace poles, downguys & ground wires on transmission system.

BEL Light the Night for Kids!
Sept. 30, 7:15pm. "Light the Night for Kids" walk hosted by the Inspiration Center, streetlights will remain off along the route of the walk. Streetlights will be turned on after the "Light the Night for Kids" walk has passed these streets.

Commentary: Donald Trump convinced many that he is not qualified to be president
By Wellington C. Ramos. I have been living in the United States for 38 years now and I have never seen a candidate running for the presidency who is so unqualified like Donald Trump. He became the Republican nominee for their party because his campaign was built on assuring some white men and anti-immigrants that if he is elected he will give them back their country. He is not the first Republican candidate running for president to use this strategy. Others used it before but did not engage in straight talk like him. Some of them were elected and others were rejected. Over the years the American population has changed from a majority white to other ethnic groups. It is not possible for any candidate to win the presidency with only the white vote.

San Pedro Kids Club
Register now for this great opportunity! Free for Kids!

Newly elected Garifuna Council visits San Pedro
On Thursday, September 29, the newly elected Garifuna Council visited the Mayor and Councilor Hector Tito Alamilla to present its new members and its future objectives. The new council consists of Mr. Alex Noralez as the president, Virginia Melendez as Vice President, Eden Velasquez as Secretary, Elsy Guilty as Assistant Secretary, Elroy Castillo as Treasurer and Amancia Martinez as the Assistant Treasurer. Both Mayor Guerrero and Councilor Tito congratulated them on their triumph and expressed their best wishes on a successful term. Mayor Daniel Guerrero and the San Pedro Town Council are looking forward to working with this new team to further promote the Garifuna culture in San Pedro.

Belize Workers Union in Solidarity with Teachers
In a press release dated Friday September 30th, the Belize Workers' Union (BWU) expresses solidarity with the strike staged by the Belize National Teachers' Union (BNTU) and are prepared to move their cause to the next level. In its release it states "The Belize Workers' Union (BWU) writes on behalf of its members to inform the public and parents in particular, that it stands firmly in support of the Belize National Teachers' Union (BNTU) in its decision to strike as a result of its agitation with the Government of Belize over issues pertaining to the economic and social well-being of our beloved country. The teachers are on the side of right! Their fight is a noble fight on behalf of all citizens of this country and their cause and the decision to strike is protected according to right to strike principles set out by the International Labour Organization (ILO). For the BWU to stand aside and do nothing is to abdicate its moral responsibility to not only the teachers and the BNTU but also to all our Belizeans brothers and sisters who are victims of ministerial and Government corruption and mismanagement of the nation's financial resources. The BWU stands in solidarity to move the cause to the next level".

Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association will close its offices on Monday, October 3, 2016
In solidarity with the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) and is members.

Taiwanese Food & Cultural Festival
The Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) will host “Taiwanese Food & Cultural Festival” at Fort George Memorial Park between 10AM to 3PM of October 15, 2016 as part of the activities in celebrating the country’s Double Tenth National day. 20 booths from Taiwanese community will sell indigenous Taiwanese food, including Taiwanese fried chicken, Taiwanese sausage, beef noodles, beef puff, fried rice noodles, tea eggs, spring rolls, thick soup noodle, vegetable balls, savory rice cake, turnip cake, caozaiguo, sushi, tempura, yakitori, fried silk thread rolls, mochi, wheel pies, nougat, cake, cookie, taro crispy cake, Moringa tea, herbal tea, juice, coffee and bubble tea. It is an opportunity for all and gourmets to savor the flavor and treat your palates to genuine Taiwanese food. Taiwan Embassy welcomes everyone along with his/her family to participate in the event and enjoy Taiwanese tasty food.

National Team of BELIZE vs The National Team of HONDURAS!!!
WHERE: FFB Stadium, Belmopan WHEN: Saturday, October 8th, 2016 More details coming soon..... Here is a list of players called up for this MATCH UP of a LIFE TIME.. BELIZE vs HONDURAS

Memo from Corozal Junior College
26 teachers in solidarity with the BNTU

Commander US SOUTHCOM visits Belize
The Commander of United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), Admiral Kurt Walter Tidd concluded a two-day visit to Belize on Thursday September 29th, 2016, with a tripartite meeting held with Commander Belize Defence Force Brigadier General David Jones and Chief of Defence Staff of the Guatemalan Armed Forces, Major General Juan Manuel Perez Ramirez, at Caracol Ruins in the Mountain Pine Ridge Thursday evening. The main purpose of the tripartite meeting was to encourage dialogue and cooperation, particularly on border issues between Belize and Guatemala. Also discussed was the important role that the armed forces must play in regards to regional security.

Benque HoC 15th Anniversary
Happy 15 years to the Benque House of Culture! They have the Pillars of Benque HoC exhibit up right now. Fun pictures from the party. They have a great little video of the fireworks at the party too. "We bid farewell to one of our most festive seasons, one that leaves us with great memories, friendships and a journey to continue embracing our Belizean Identity! Images of our Benque HOC Quince Años- A walk down through memory lane ceremony & opening of our in house exhibition 'Pillars of Benque HOC' - depicting 15 personalities that have contributed invaluably towards the growth & development of the Arts, Culture & History, locally and internationally."

Yesterday, Mr. Giovanni Pinelo presented at SCA.
We (NICH) are always happy to conduct presentations at schools. The students were interested to learn about the origins of the Anglo-Guatemalan Dispute.

Protecting the Mopan River means working with Guatemalan communities
Thanks to the British Embassy a 5,000 plant nursery was constructed at the village of El Cruzadero. The trees are ready and distribution has started across the 9 communities that form part of the Bi-national Watershed Alliance.

Channel 7

Teachers: One Day Strike, For Now
It's confirmed, the BNTU will strike on Monday. The Union held a press conference this afternoon after their Council of Management met earlier today. There were reports circulating that the teachers would strike for a week others were even saying a month. Well the BNTU clarified that it will only be a one day strike…for now!! BNTU's National President Luke Palacio gave the announcement while National Secretary Endevora Jergenson reiterated their main demands. Luke Palacio, BNTU National President: "So on Monday we call on all our teachers throughout this country not to go to school. We have said to our membership throughout this country and contrary to what the other side is saying we have massive support for the actions we are taking. We are saying to our teachers stay tuned to the media, we will be giving you updates accordingly."

PUP Senators Pounce on Hulse
It's been just over 5 weeks since the Special Audits on the Immigration Department were made public. In 700+ pages spread out across three reports, Auditor General Dorothy Bradley details a very frightening picture of widespread irregularities and rampant corruption in the department. She names public officers, political cronies, and elected UDP officials as being involved with visa, passport and nationality irregularities. It has dominated the public and political discourse, and the news tonight is that a Senate Select Committee has been set up to investigate the reports. That's what came out of a special Senate sitting today to agree on the composition of the Senate Select Committee. But, before the meeting could properly start, Lead PUP Senator, Eamon Courtenay tried to move a motion to excuse Godwin Hulse, the Leader of Government Business from the day's debate. He's the Minister of Police and Immigration. That is the Ministry which will be under the microscope, and so, the PUP says that he cannot be involved because it will be a conflict of interest.

Church Senator Ashley Rocke's Motion Met With Jeers
So, back to the business of the day, which was to appoint a Senate Select Committee - the culmination of so many weeks of agitation. And the agitation continued in the senate Chamber as both sides argued over who would sit on that Committee. The Prime Minister conceded to only 2 UDP members on the Committee, after insisting that it should be 3. But, the Teachers, the Opposition, Business Community, and a faction of the Churches say that the only possible configuration of this Senate Committee is a 1:1:3, one from the Government, one from the Opposition, and 3 from the Social partners. Church Senator Ashley Rocke tabled a motion today that Senate configuration be 2:1:3. That's in line with what the Government is prepared to support, and though his motion was scheduled to go after Eamon Courtenay, the acting president, Dr. Carla Barnett, allowed him to table his first. Here's his presentation to his colleagues:

PUP Motion Was Defeated
PUP's Lead Senator, Eamon Courtenay got his opportunity to make his presentation before the division was called for. Instead of moving his own motion, which was already prepared, he decided to propose amendments to Ashley Rocke's motion, to ensure that while they do not agree on the composition, the objective of a comprehensive Senate Investigation will take place. Here he is making the point that Government should have only one Senator on the committee to investigate the Immigration Audit Reports: After all members of the Senate spoke on the two motions, Acting President Carla Barnett temporarily suspended the Senate meeting. This was to allow for the senators to have an informal discussion amongst themselves about the changes Courtenay proposed. When they returned, there was still the dispute about the composition of the Committee. As we told you, Courtenay's motion recommended only 1 Government Senator, to firewall against Government influence, and possible misdirection of the Senate Probe. When his configuration was voted on, it was defeated. The Senate then took a vote on Rocke's Government friendly configuration, and that's when a division was called for. Here's how it went:

Rocke Under Sustained Fire
So, as you saw, at the end, when the Senate took that short recess, the members went to figure out what to do with Ashley Rocke's motion. There appeared to be consensus among the senators that it was deficient in some areas, and it was not as legally thorough as Senator Courtenay's motion. So, in those deliberations, it was decided that they would improve his motion with portions of Courtenay's - a rare moment of all sides coming together. Of course, they left out Courtenay's part about the composition of the Senate Committee which would reduce the Government's representation from 2 to only 1. They put that and Rocke's more Government-friendly configuration to a division, and as you saw, his recommendations passed, while Courtenay's was defeated. Notably the PUP - while they didn't vote for Rocke's motion -they didn't vote against it.

An Inquiry With Intrigues
So, that's more or less how today's Senate meeting went, and while there will be a raging debate on Church Senator Ashley Rocke's controversial motion, the bottom line is that there will be a public, televised Senate Inquiry on the Auditor General's Report. That's something that the general public has been calling for, and with the working compromise, it's now going to be a reality. But as we told you, there were some amendments recommended by Senator Eamon Courtenay. Some were adopted, and some were rejected. 2 of the rejected recommendations caught our attention this evening. The first is the ability of any member of the Senate Committee to call anyone he or she deems important as a witness. The other is that a clearly defined budget was not identified in this first meeting.

Conflict In the Catholic Church And Schools
Last night we told you about the explosive release from the Catholic Diocese -presumably under the hand of Bishop Dorrick Wright - standing by the striking teachers and taking a few well-placed jabs at the government. Well, the Manager of Roman Catholic Schools put them in check when she told LOVE TV that the release was not in line with the official position of Catholic Schools. Here's how she put it. As Sister Barbara explained - she called in the Papal Nunce from Honduras to come and clear up the matter. And while the Diocese release stated that the 50 thousand children in the Catholic school System should stay home on Monday and wait for further order, the school manager said that they want to keep schools open:

Paumen Got Back His Passport
Earlier this year, American-Belizean tour operator Bradley Paumen was charged with abetment to murder Michael Modiri. The hit was allegedly placed after the court ordered Paumen to pay Modiri, his next door neighbor, $300,000 for trespassing on his land to conduct his tours. After being charged, Paumen was forced to forfeit his passport and ordered not to leave the country. Today, Paumen's attorney, Herbert Panton, submitted an application to Supreme Court Justice Antoinette Moore, asking permission for Paumen to get back his passport, and for him to travel to the US state of Missouri for twenty days in October. After reviewing the application and deciding that there was no risk of Paumen fleeing, Justice Moore accepted.

BTL Boasts Strong Growth In Revenue and Profits At AGM
BTL has been in the news a lot recently, but mostly because of the ballooning cost of the settlement with the Ashcroft Alliance. But, ultimately, that is a matter for the government which took over the company from the Alliance in 2009. For BTL as a private entity - that company is unfettered by those huge compensation payouts - and is trying to keep up with a rapidly changing telecommunications landscape. Last night at their annual general meeting the company was boasting of sharply increased earnings and profits - but still, nagging questions persist - and we were there to ask them:... Audrey Wallace, Director - BTL: "The fiscal year 2015/2016 has been an exceptional year for BTL in terms of revenues and achieving corporate milestones." Nestor Vasquez, 14th year as Chairman - BTL: "We added over 25,000 new mobile customers to our customer base. We more than doubled the number of postpaid mobile customers and we more than tripled the number of customers using 4g data on a regular basis."

BTL Chairman Takes On Briceno on Value of Phone Company
And that wasn't the end of it for the BTL Chairman, Nestor Vasquez. He took on Opposition Leader John Briceno who told us yesterday that BTL is hardly worth 100 million dollars, and government is paying the Ashcroft Alliance over 500 million dollars for it. Well the Chairman didn't like to hear that one bit, and he scolded the opposition leader:... Nestor Vasquez, 14th year as Chairman - BTL: "The leader of the opposition is misinformed or is just not telling the truth. He should know better than that because what we have right now is already worth over 400 million dollars. The company is worth that with the building, the property, the machinery, the equipment, the train stop, we already own that in assets but the point to remember is that if you add all the profits that they would have made between 2009 when we took over to 2025, you get it from the Price Water House evaluation, their evaluation."

BNTU We Shall Not Be ...Intimidated
So the teachers will strike on Monday, and at this point, no one really knows what will happen because as you heard the Ministry of Education has been working on an emergency plan to keep schools open. One of those measures is to bring in substitute teachers. The BNTU members expressed how they felt about these tactics from Government. Kesha Young Flowers, Executive Secretary - BNTU: "What I will attempt to do is to highlight the intimidation and the attacks that have come fast and furious at the BNTU since Sunday when the prime minister made a public statement to the nation of Belize. A statement that was almost 10 minutes long, and you have seen that statement go countrywide during prime time constantly attacking the BNTU. We have to question, where is the money coming from that this government has invested in vilifying the BNTU? We have also seen on the news items in this week and we have heard from people on the ground that ministers of government have been visiting schools, making calls, reaching out to teachers trying to intimidate them and to stop them from striking on Monday. We have to ask again, why is it that all 31 ministers, caretakers are representatives of this government have been called out and asked to undertake such actions against the teachers of the BNTU. We have also seen letters that have come from managements going directly to teachers and principals indicating that they would initiate action against the teachers if they participate in Monday's industrial action."

BNTU Says Faber Never Wanted to Talk Education Issues
And the teachers union council of management also had some choice words for Education Minister Patrick Faber. He said that the teachers should be focusing on classroom issues, not national issues. They say Faber never game them a chance to ventilate those issues:.. Luke Palacio - National President, BNTU: "Let Minister Faber not continue to try and mislead this nation. We have asked for meetings with Minister Faber, in fact when he first got elected for the previous government, there was an arrangement where we met with the minister on a quarterly basis. He said 'no that's too long, I'll meet with you every 3 months', he has not met with us in over 3 years. So how can we be bringing up education issues with him? Whenever we go to a meeting it's either with his chief education officer or his chief executive officer. Whenever we are to have meetings he agrees to it and when we get there, 'we apologize for the minister, he cannot be here'. If he were so sure of what he's talking about, he should have listed the things that he believes teachers and the BNTU should be addressing because he has not given us that opportunity."

NEMO Sends Out Advance Notice For Hurricane Matthew
As we showed you earlier in the weather report, Hurricane Matthew is out there in the Caribbean gaining strength at a frightening rate. And that's why NEMO has issued what it calls an early advance notice. Now, to be clear, the storm is not forecast to come our way, but NEMO says it is monitoring the Category 4 Hurricane which is presently more than 1, 000 miles from Belize. NEMO stresses that Matthew is expected to make a turn to the North over the weekend. And even though the superstorm poses no threat to Belize and the extreme western Caribbean, persons living on the cayes, in flood prone areas, fisher folks, and farmers are advised to monitor Hurricane Matthew in the event that the northward turn does not materialize over the weekend. NEMO says that national and district committees will be notified to monitor and prepare for any developments associated with the storm.

Honoring The Aged
Stand Up Against Ageism: that was the theme for this senior week. There were a number of activities including an arts and craft display and movie night. Well today, to end off the week HelpAge held a Senior Spa Day where about 50 elderly persons got their nails done. The chairperson for HelpAge Belize City Branch told us more about today's pampering session. But Clarke told us that beyond the pampering, there are a lot of problems affecting the older persons, including neglect and abuse. If you would like to help out an older person or volunteer at the HelpAge you can call 224 5282.

High Level Military Meeting In Belize: Guats, US, Bze
It didn't get a lot of publicity, but this week, military leaders from the United States and Guatemala had a tripartite meeting. Brigadier General David Jones met with the US Admiral Kurt Walter Tidd, Commander of Southern Command, and Major General Juan Manuel Perez Ramirez to discuss strategies for ensuring cooperation and peace in the region. Today Felix Enriquez, CEO of the Ministry of Defense, gave us more details: The military leaders also spoke about the possibility of joint training exercises and the role of the armed forces in the security of the entire region. Admiral Tidd, along with US Ambassador Carlos Moreno, also donated $15,000 US dollars in cleaning supplies to NEMO to assist in the relief efforts after Hurricane Earl, part of US$215,000 pledged by US Southern Command to restock NEMO's warehouses in preparation for another disaster.

Mexican Ship Visits
Today marked the 35th year of diplomatic relations between Belize and Mexico, and to celebrate our port was visited by the "Independencia" Mexican Navy vessel. A ceremony was held to welcome the 282 foot vessel and Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington and Ambassador Carlos Quesnel spoke about the amicable relationship the two countries share. And after the celebrations on the Independencia concluded, the Chamber Orchestra and Choir of the Mexican Navy performed traditional Mexican folk music at the Bliss.

Channel 5

Breaking News: Hurricane Matthew, A Category 4 Storm, Lurks in the Caribbean
The National Met Service is asking Belizeans to keep an eye on Hurricane Matthew over the weekend. In an advisory sent late this evening, the Met Service says that they [...]

Ashley Rocke Gets Senate Inquiry Motion Passed; Did He Betray Social Partners?
The Upper Chamber of the National Assembly today had a very high-stakes meeting in Belmopan. Its sole purpose: to come to an agreement about the constitution and composition of a [...]

P.U.P.’s Lead Senator Says They Were “Caught Off-Guard” by Change in Motions
The Leader of the Opposition in the Senate admitted following the meeting that they were caught off-guard by the sudden change to the Order Paper putting Senator Rocke’s motion above [...]

Godwin Hulse Saved From Being Thrown Out of Debate – But Should He Have Been?
But, before the Rocke motion could even be heard and debated, there was an intervention by Lead Opposition Senator Eamon Courtenay, asking Minister of Immigration and his opposite number in [...]

COLA Interrupts Senate and Fires Off at Senators Rocke and Hulse
While Senator Ashley Rocke was making the ultimately successful motion before the Senate, he was interrupted by Geovannie Brackett, the President of Citizens Organized for Liberty through Action and activist [...]

COLA President Calls for Continued Civil Disobedience and Support for Teachers
In anticipation of the Rocke motion being passed, C.O.L.A. president Brackett vowed to continue civil agitation alongside the Belize National Teachers’ Union. He called for a national shutdown on Monday [...]

Business Community and Union Senators Distance Themselves from Motion
After the debate began, it quickly became clear that the social partner Senators – Mark Lizarraga for the business community and Elena Smith for the trade unions and civil society [...]

Chamber Reserves Judgment on Motion; Supports B.N.T.U.
The Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry has said it will review its options in light of today’s successful motion in the Senate. However, in a statement issued just before [...]

Junior Education Minister Calls Composition of Committee a “Concession” by P.M.
While the opposition, social partners and civil society were of the opinion that the motion presented by the Church Senator did not go far enough; the major discontent was the [...]

B.N.T.U. Rallies for Monday’s Strike – But Will It Go Further?
It is for more than the three—it is for country…That was the message from the Executive of the Belize National Teachers Union this afternoon at a press conference in the [...]

Teachers Under Attack! B.N.T.U. Wonders Why?
According to the B.N.T.U., since Sunday, the teachers have been under attack by the Government of Belize. The teachers are known as nation builders, but according to Executive Secretary Keisha [...]

Potential Replacement Teachers Warned as B.N.T.U. Contemplates Extending Strike
The actions taken by government have teachers riled up and ready for Monday’s strike. But they are even more incensed by a statutory instrument that is expected to be signed [...]

Union Stalwart George Frazer Cries Shame on Education Minister
Union executives also called out the government for what they say are acts of Union Busting. Former Union Leader, George Frazer says he’s ashamed of Minister of Education Patrick Faber [...]

Will Stevedores Strike As Well?
For the past few days, it has been rumoured that the stevedores would be striking in solidarity with the teachers union. But both the CWU & the Port of Belize [...]

Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association Issues Support for Teachers
In a late evening press release on Thursday, the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association declared their support for the teachers. The B.S.C.F.A. release states that the demands of the teachers [...]

Are Roman Catholic School Managers and Bishop Still at Odds?
Is there division between the Management of Catholic Schools and the Roman Catholic Diocese of Belize and Belmopan? Today, the Belize Catholic Association of Principals of Secondary Schools sent out [...]

Junior Minister Defends Against Claims of Union Busting
Earlier this week we told you about Government ministers on the ground talking to teachers – asking them not to strike on Monday. So, today we caught up with Elodio [...]

Queen Square Anglican School Will Get New Building
Over six hundred students will benefit from a major upgrade to the Queen Square Anglican Primary School in Belize City. The nine hundred and fifty thousand dollars project will include [...]

3 teenagers detained for home invasion in Trial Farm
On Thursday night in Trial Farm Village in Orange walk, twenty-eight year old Salvadoran Kenny Carranza and her neighbors and a few children were the victims of a brazen burglary. [...]

Bradley Pauman Off to U.S. with Supreme Court’s Approval
American Bradley Pauman, has been in the news for over a year as the businessman accused putting a hit on fellow businessman and neighbour Michael Modiri. He was back in court [...]

Elderly Man Freed of Sexual Assault Charge
Well known Belizean tailor, sixty-six year old Felipe Santiago Montejo, is a free man tonight after the charge of sexual assault of a minor was struck out in court today. [...]

A Rape Case is Dropped in the Supreme Court
Another man also walked free of a sexual crime today. Only in the case of Long Caye resident, Pedro Trujeque, he was reminded that the rape charge against him can [...]

Mexican Naval Ship’s Visit Marks Milestone of Diplomatic Relations with Belize
It’s a celebration of thirty-five years of friendship! Our friends from the North are celebrating that anniversary by bringing their prestigious naval vessel for a ceremonial visit. The Embassy of [...]

U.S. SouthCom Commander Visits Belize
On Thursday, the Commander of the United States Southern Command, Admiral Kurt Walter Tidd concluded a two-day visit to Belize with a tripartite meeting held with Brigadier General David Jones [...]

Regional Youth Conference Concludes in Belize
Today, the Caribbean Youth Leaders Summit officially came to a close. The theme for the summit was From Rhetoric to Action Agenda 2030.  Were the dynamic youths able to achieve [...]

CTV3

Freddy Heredia Captures Police Officer Of The Month
Today Corporal Freddy Heredia of the Orange Walk Police Formation became the honored recipient of the department’s monthly award known as police of the month award. As a result of his continuous perseverance and hard-work within the department and throughout the community for the entire month of September, Heredia received a certificate of appreciation and a monitory contribution among other items as his reward.nFreddy Heredia – Police of the month, September:n“I feel happy in a way but I need to also congratulate my coworkers because this achievement cannot be accomplished without the person who worked along with me, they are the ones who always push me to work towards that.” Though Heredia worked relentlessly to achieve this recognition, he encourages other to follow in his footsteps.

UDP Rep. Dissuading Teachers From Participating In Strike Actions
And while the Belize National Teachers union remains strong in their mandate for strike action scheduled for Monday, the Education Ministry and UDP politicians are going to extraordinary lengths to keep schools open. It has been reported to BNTU that Cabinet tasked area representatives to visit schools in the constituencies and make direct appeals to the teachers and principals not to participate in a strike. Today National President of the BNTU, Luke Palacio spoke on the actions taken by the UDP government calling it a sad day for our country and pleaded to all teachers and parents to remain strong and not to fall in the intimidation tactics of this ruling party who wishes to change the laws of our country with the strike of a pen.

Ambassador Of Honduras Presents Credentials To GG
Her Excellency Nery Magaly Funes Padilla, Ambassador of Honduras, presented her credentials to the Governor General of Belize H.E. Sir Colville Young today, at the Belize House in the City of Belmopan. During the ceremony Ambassador Padilla expressed her pleasure of being in Belize representing her country and shared her nation’s well wishes to Belize and intentions of continuing to work together to strengthen diplomatic relations. The Governor General cordially welcomed and received Ambassador Padilla’s credentials.

PUP Presents First Template Of Good Governance
Good Governance has become two of the most discussed words in our nation’s current political dialogue. The idea has been the subject for many debates, passionate speeches at rallies and House meetings, and even the purported rationale for civil disobedience and protests. Everyone agrees it’s an important ingredient in a good democracy, but what is it exactly and does our system of governance allow for adequate Good Governance? Those questions were put squarely on the forefront by the People’s United Party today when it launched its first template for a Good Governance agenda at the Biltmore Hotel in Belize City. Senior members of the Party, including Parliamentarians and National Executive members, Party supporters, some members of the diplomatic corps and concerned Belizeans gathered on the Party’s 66th birthday anniversary to witness the launch of the Party’s platform for reform in a very critical area: governance.

CCJ Rules Against Belize, Orders GOB To Pay Ashcroft Millions Of Dollars
Attorneys for GOB and Dunkeld Investments and the BTL Employees Trust were today again before the Caribbean Court of Justice where a decision was handed down over the latest disagreement between both parties on how the final award should be paid. After hearing from both parties Justices Jacob Wit, Rolston Nelson, and Winston Anderson ordered GOB to pay 67 million dollars in US currency to Dunkeld International Investments and the employees Trust forthwith. Here is a section of the hearing when the ruling was handed down. Denise Barrow – Attorney for Government Of Belize: “The courts orders the financial secretary to pay to Dunkeld US$50,798,613.44 in US dollars and to the trust US$16,521,510.54.” Ending the court hearing, the media got an opportunity to speak with attorneys for both parties who explained the CCJ’s final ruling.

Customs Officer Attacker Remanded To Prison
Tonight, 21 year old Nigel Galvez of Toucan Street in Belmopan is on remand at the Belize Central Prison for the attempted robbery against 34 year old Custom Officer, Jose Luis Acevedo. On September 14th while walking towards the main gate of his property, Acevedo reported that he encountered two male persons standing inside his yard, one of who was in possession of a firearm and pointing it towards him. Acevedo then reportedly shot at the robbers and caught Galvez on the hip while the other individual fled the scene. Since the incident, Galvez had been under police guard at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital recuperating from injuries sustained but was released yesterday. Following his release Galvez was transported to the Orange Walk Police where he was formally arrested and charged for the crime of Aggravated Assault, Possession of a Prohibited firearm and Possession of Prohibited Ammunition.

LOVE FM

Senate Finalizes Composition of the Senate
The most important outcome of today’s Senate Meeting was the composition of the Senate Select Committee. The committee will be comprised of six members: two from Government, one from the Opposition, one from the Churches, one from the private sector and one from the unions. This composition was introduced by Church Senator Ashley Rocke, there […]

Senator Courtenay Asks Hulse to Recuse Himself
Before Senator Rocke introduced his motion, Lead Opposition Senator, Eamon Courtenay pointed out that Immigration Minister Godwin Hulse should not participate in today’s Senate Meeting. Courtenay’s reasoning was that Hulse was named in the auditor General report and as Minister of Immigration he should recuse himself from all senate proceedings with regards to the Senate […]

COLA Tongue Lashes Senator Rocke
COLA President, Geovanni Brackett and his band of loyal followers were escorted out of the National Assembly today by police officers. At the start of Senator Ashley Rocke’s presentation, Brackett loudly proclaimed that Rocke is not representing the views of the Church. The Vice President of the Senate who was stepping in for President Lee […]

Union Says The Weak Response to Their Demands Is Unacceptable
For the past 45 days the Belize national Teachers Union and the Government of Belize have been in negotiations regarding the proposed deferred three percent salary increase for the teachers as well as several demands made by the teachers to the Prime Minister surrounding matters of national concern. Today, two days before the teachers plan […]

Past BNTU President Says Government’s Attempt at Union Busting is Unprecedented
Eyes will be on the schools come Monday, October 3 to see how many teachers and parents will participate in the planned industrial action by the Belize National Teachers Union. BNTU President, Luke Palacio told the media today that there is no truth to what the Education Minister Patrick Faber is saying regarding this strike […]

Luke Palacio Responds to Education Minister on Education Concerns
In an interview conducted earlier this week with Education Minister, Patrick Faber says that he was at a loss as to the demands being made by the BNTU on national issues when there is so much to discuss and take on in the education sector. We asked the union President, Luke Palacio to respond to […]

BTL Reports Profit of $22.1M at AGM 2015/2016
A profit of twenty two point one millions dollars was reported during Belize Telemedia Limited Annual General Meeting last night. According to the report, this is a four million dollar increase when compared to last year. According to the Chairman of BTL’s Executive Committee, Anwar Barrow, the fiscal year was ended with record operating revenues […]

Anwar Barrow Says Musa’s Allegation of Cooked Books Is ‘Total Nonsense’
“The figures are misleading”- this is what PUP Area Representative Kareem Musa said last night when he was speaking of this year’s Belize Telemedia Limited Annual General Meeting. Musa alleges that the financial reports presented to shareholders are riddled with discrepancies. He says the books are cooked. After the AGM last night, Chairman of the […]

Net Vasquez Says BTL Is Worth $400M Plus
Opposition Leader John Briceno, characterized the BTL Nationalization settlement as a sad secret arrangement that would ultimately cost the Belizean public millions of dollars. Briceno said the latest ruling by the Caribbean Court of Justice will cripple Belize’s economy and put Belize’s foreign reserve in a choke hold. Briceno out rightly blamed Prime Minister Dean […]

Dr Barnett Says Government Will Push for Increased Revenue Collection
The International Monetary Fund concluded its latest report on Belize last week. According to the report, Belize is facing multiple economic challenges with the country’s fiscal position weakened and an increasing public debt. The report makes recommendation one of which is for the Government to raise taxes, particularly the General Sales Tax. Today we asked […]

Amandala

Damn the torpedoes – full speed ahead!
Several area representatives and standard bearers of the ruling United Democratic Party (UDP), including Hon. Tracy Panton and Hon. Michael Finnegan of the Albert and Mesopotamia constituencies respectively, among others, have been seen canvassing their communities and the schools within to discourage teachers from participating in proposed industrial action by their union, the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU), and encouraging parents to send their children to school on Monday. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Patrick Faber, on Wednesday announced that on Friday, he will sign a Statutory Instrument (SI) to hire temporary teachers to replace those permanent teachers who may engage in extended industrial action.

Transferred Immigration officers “left on their own” to cover transfer costs
The Immigration Department transferred almost fifty immigration officers to various parts of the country on August 1, 2016. However, at the present time, just a few days shy of October, these officers are yet to receive their transfer and housing grants which they had been promised would have been included in their salaries at the end of August. When Amandala spoke to several officers today, we were told that none of them who were transferred received their transfer grant of $1,200 or the monthly housing grant of $300. Furthermore, they revealed that last week they were issued a memo informing them that their grants would be suspended until further notice.

BNTU threatens industrial action on October 3
The administration of Prime Minister Dean Barrow is gearing up to face its 6th protest in 6 weeks. On August 23, the churches, led by Pastor Louis Wade, protested at the footsteps of Independence Hill in Belmopan, while Patrick Menzies and the Spanish arm of the Evangelical Church would protest at that same location seven days later. One day after, the People’s United Party (PUP) would protest at that same location. On September 7, the People’s United Party (PUP) led another protest in Belize City. Last Monday the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) led another protest in Belmopan. Eighteen hours after their meeting on Thursday with PM Barrow, the BNTU wrote the Prime Minister informing him that, “in accordance with our Stand Up for Belize Campaign, centered on the mantra, ‘It’s for far more than three [per cent]; it’s for country,’ we find that most of what you brought to the table is inconsistent with our demands to ensure good governance and respect for workers.”

CCJ orders GOB to pay Ashcroft US$67.3 million
The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), Belize’s final appellate court, handed down a decision today ordering Financial Secretary, Joseph Waight to pay the former shareholders of Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL)—Dunkeld International Investments Ltd. and BTL Employees Trust, two companies controlled by British billionaire Michael Ashcroft—a total of US$67.3 million, in the specified US currency. Eamon Courtenay, SC, attorney for the Ashcroft companies, had told the CCJ last week that his clients have over BZ$130 million they can do nothing with. His clients have been demanding the funds in US currency, which would allow them to repatriate the money from Belize. “I was hoping for a check by now,” Courtenay told us this evening.

Joy Grant replaces Glenford Ysaguirre as Central Bank Governor
Glenford Ysaguirre, the Governor of the Central Bank of Belize, who was a member of the Super Bond negotiating team in 2012, and who was also instrumental in trying to solve the challenges faced by the country when some U.S. financial institutions severed their correspondent banking relations with Belize’s banks, is scheduled to demit office tomorrow, Friday. Readers will recall that several international banks, including the Bank of America, severed ties with Belize last year in a process referred to as “de-risking”, which involved a move by US financial institutions to exit relationships with, and close the accounts of, clients considered “high risk” due to their alleged facilitation of money laundering, terrorism and/or crime. Ysaguirre, who spent the last eight years as Governor of Central Bank after first assuming office in 2008, is leaving at a time when the country is experiencing turbulent economic times.

Senate debate composition of Senate Select Committee tomorrow, Friday
“The Prime Minister is being deceitful, he is being a hypocrite just like the Minister of Immigration and Minister of Police,” said PUP Leader, John Briceño, who today slammed the government for wanting to have more representatives than the Opposition on the Senate Select Committee. That issue — the configuration of the Senate Select Committee, which is to investigate the findings presented in the Special Report of the Auditor General on the Passport, Visa and Nationality Departments, will be debated on Friday at 10 a.m. in the Senate. The Opposition Leader wasted no time, however, in expressing his concerns.

FC Belize wins Week 6 back-match, still undefeated
In a Week 6 back-match last night at the MCC Grounds, FC Belize posted a 4-2 win over visiting Orange Walk FC. With the victory, FC Belize maintained their unbeaten record, while the fast improving Orange Walk squad remains winless. Hector Martinez opened the scoring for FC Belize at the 19th minute. Following a corner kick, a deflection off the leg of FC Belize sweeper Jordi Lopez resulted in the equalizer for Orange Walk at the 45th minute; but before the whistle to mark half-time, FC Belize’s Russell Cassanova trailed a long center from the right side and used the inside of his right foot to volley it past Bryan Hernandez in goal for Orange Walk, to give FC Belize the 2-1 lead at the intermission. Michael Whittaker (48’) tied it up for Orange Walk early in second half, but Cassanova struck twice more (57’ & 73’) for a hat trick. FC Belize held on for the 4-2 victory, but lost both striker Hector Martinez and sweeper Jordi Lopez to red cards; while Orange Walk’s Michael Whittaker was also red-carded.

Leading the league, but FC Belize players unhappy
With their 4-2 win last night at the MCC over visiting Orange Walk FC, all should be bright and beautiful inside the FC Belize camp; but instead, late word this evening is that the frustration among players with their team management has reached a breaking point, where the players, who have been playing “on hand middle,” so to speak, for some time now, feel like they are being exploited by the team’s management. Apparently, reports have reached a number of the players about funds that were supposedly received by the team management, and which they have received no benefit from. According to a team spokesman, “Rather than continue putting all our energy out there only so that somebody else can benefit off of our sweat, better we just stop playing.”

BBBFF Mr. Belize 2016 Championship
The Belize Body Building and Fitness Federation (BBBFF) held its Annual National Championship, “Mr. Belize 2016” on Saturday, September 24, at the Bliss Center for the Performing Arts. The Bliss was the battlefield and came alive when male and female athletes competed for the prestigious title of Mr. Belize 2016 and Ms. Bikini Fitness. It was a battle of the muscles, as the competition was fierce, and below we have the official results of the winners for each category. We had the assistance of members of the IFBB and representatives of the Central America Confederation, who were among our distinguished panel of local judges. We would like to acknowledge the beautiful Ms. Belize Universe, Rebecca Rath, for gracing us with her beauty, as she assisted in handing out the prizes; thanks to our Chief Judge, Dr. Leroy Almendarez; Josephine Gault, Secretary for the Judges Committee; and the panel of local Judges: Wendy Oxley Assad, Pete Castillo, Ray Usher, Josephine Gault & Guy Neal; to the Chief Statistician, Mr. George Myvette and his team: Colin Griffith, Jr. & Trisha Saunders; to Guy Neal our back stage Judge; and to all the BBBFF Executive; photographers, Mr. Tony Rath & Mr. Michael Arnold; and friends of Bodybuilding for their support; and to the fans for coming out to witness the “Battle of Muscles.”

SSBA Basketball rolls into Week 2
The San Ignacio & Santa Elena Basketball Association (SSBA) hosted its second week of basketball games at the Victor Galvez Stadium in San Ignacio Town. On Friday night, defending Under 19 champions, Pepsi Christian Ambassadors defeated the boys from Sacred Heart College, 85-43. Pepsi Christian Ambassadors was led by Tevaughn Lennan, who had the game high 24 points, while Paul Flowers, Jr. sank 17 pts, Louis Wade, Jr. had 15 pts, and Antwan McFadzean scored 10 pts. In the second game of the night, Tuff Enuff narrowly edged Benque Power, 46-43, in the Under 23 category. Tuff Enuff was led by Rabyane Sacasa who netted 12 pts, while Sydney Bradley and Douglas Valley scored 11 and 10 pts, respectively.

Precedent and procedure
So much of English common law is about precedent. When attorneys present arguments before judges, much of what they do involves citing previous cases and referring to previous judgments. The thing is, there must have been a time, in specific areas of litigation, when there was no precedent. There must have been a time when there was no ruling available for citing in a given matter. There was a time, then, before precedent. When the teachers of Belize hit the Government of Belize with industrial action this Monday, October 3, it appears to us that the whole process leading up to this clash has not been entirely procedural. By that we mean, the process of back-and-forth between the two parties may have been disjointed in spots. At least, this is how the Government of Belize has been presenting its side of the arguments to the parents and people of Belize.

From the Publisher
You will have to bear with me today, because I may not be able to finish this in one column. In a couple weeks time, Belize will celebrate the October 12 holiday, which used to be called Columbus Day here (and is still so dubbed by Italians in the United States, who celebrate it religiously and en masse), because this was the day in 1492 when an expedition of three sailing ships under Christopher Columbus first sighted land in what became known to Europeans as the “New World.” Columbus was an Italian who believed that the world was round (many swore it was flat at the time) and believed he would reach the eastern riches of India and China and so on by sailing west. The Portuguese had previously reached Asia’s riches by sailing south around the Cape of Good Hope tip of Africa, and then northeast. By August of 1592, when the Portuguese carrack named the Madre de Dios, returning from Kochi on the west coast of India, was captured by English pirates, she was the richest prize ever captured by the English.

Tony Wright — Belize’s Real Music Ambassador!
Dear Editor, Another successful “Soundfest” was held in the old Belize capital on September 16, 2016, marking the fifteenth annual event, just in time to celebrate Belize’s 35th Independence anniversary. Soundfest 2016 was also complemented by the publishing of the first edition of the magazine, Belizean Musicians Past and Present. This magazine showcases bands of the past and their history. It was created from the mind of the individual who is now accepted to be Belize’s real music ambassador, Tony Wright, also known as the lovable Tony Wright, along with his partner in radio, JC Arzu, both of whom have almost single-handedly carried the torch of promoting and conserving Belize’s musicians and their music via a program, “Belize Musicians Past and Present,” hosted on KREM Radio, which started back in 1995.

“QUO VADIS, Belize? Where are we going, Belize?” — PART 2
Dear Editor, On the 35th Anniversary of the Independence of Belize, I contribute the following article to initiate a conversation with the people of Belize on bringing about the future we desire for the next generation. This is a follow up to “QUO VADIS, Belize? Where are we going, Belize?,” which you were kind enough to publish in your esteemed newspaper in September, 2014 on the 33rd anniversary of the Independence of Belize. I will be grateful if you would extend a similar courtesy to this article.

41 electoral divisions a bad idea
Dear Editor, There are credible rumors circulating that the Barrow administration intends to expand the number of electoral divisions from 31 to 41 — a whopping 32.25% increase in the size of the House of Representatives. Incredibly, the Barrow administration wants to re-district before carrying out the re-registration exercise that is due by law, come mid 2017. That is like a man putting on his pants before he puts on his underwear; sure he is wearing both, but they are in the wrong order. Belizeans have a name for that: Alan Barton. Section 90 of the Belize Constitution assigns the responsibility to decide on the number and nature of electoral divisions to the Belize Elections and Boundaries Commission. The sole qualifications set out in the Constitution is (1) that each division shall have nearly as equal number of voters as possible and (2) that the number of seats shall not be less than 28. The role of the Elections and Boundaries Commission in the proper exercise of our democracy is therefore weighty but, like many other institutions created to protect our democracy, the Elections and Boundaries Commission has been hijacked by the political parties. I shall leave this discourse for another time.

I am a teacher too
Dear Sir, Amidst the uproar and political crisis of 2005, I addressed a letter to you, but I never got around to sending it. I came upon it in my old notes a few months ago, and thought it worth keeping. Today, I think those thoughts could be relevant to what is happening in our country. It’s like we have come full circle, and gotten nowhere. I fully support our teachers, and I feel for our country. I was a mathematics teacher in the mid-1970s at Belmopan Comprehensive School and later at Wesley College in Belize City. With your indulgence, here is the full script of my letter, started on Monday, April 24, and completed on Wednesday, April 27, 2005.

The persecution of Imhotep Tafari
Dear Editor, Imhotep Tafari Diego is duly registered as a student at Stann Creek Ecumenical High School in Dangriga. Nevertheless, this 13-year-old dreadlocked youth who has never had his hair cut has been prevented from enjoying his right to an education by the principal of the school. Every morning Imhotep does his chores and then he joins his schoolmates from the neighborhood and they walk to school. And each and every morning, the principal of Ecumenical High School makes it her personal duty to remove Imhotep from his class. This illegal state of affairs has been going on for 3 weeks now, since the beginning of the school year. The principal of Ecumenical High School has been informed by the Ministry of Education, as well as by a human rights lawyer and former ombudsperson, that her actions (the principal’s) violate Imhotep’s constitutional right to an education, the right to his cultural and spiritual beliefs; and furthermore, the Ministry of Education advised the principal and Board of Governors of Ecumenical that the very rules cited by the school to keep Imhotep out of school were not legitimate.

Adolphus Rosales tells BNTU to think twice
Dear Editor, Kindly permit me space in your valuable newspaper to shed some light on the recent and planned “illegal” activity of the BNTU and its member teachers. As past leader of a trade union and associate of the National Teachers Union (NTU), my fifty-six (56) years of experience in labour and industrial relations give me reason to side with the Prime Minister and the Government of Belize by advising the BNTU and its members that it is not within its premise to make demands and dictate to the Government on its “constitutional” authority to “govern”. I opine that the BNTU and its members have the right to make suggestions to the Prime Minister on issues affecting the country and its people and may forward recommendations of relevance, but under no circumstance can they usurp the constitutional authority of the Government.

What Now, Belize?
It is indeed a dangerous game the present government of Belize is playing with the issue of corruption in its ministerial and public officer ranks. Belize is a nation in the making, a small and young nation in the making. Belize is a poor nation, a poor and largely uneducated nation. Therefore, unlike wealthy developed countries, Belize cannot afford the cost of the rampant corruption in government. It is a cost that will extend well into the future if this opportunity offered by the findings of the recent Immigration and Nationality audit is not fully embraced and allowed to go forward without government interference. It is the duty of every last citizen to see that this happens, to act to root out the corruption once and for all, wherever in government it exists. Belize must bring this decades-old practice to an end. Belizeans must insist on no less; not a single one can afford to be a spectator and just sit back and watch the show.

Barrow is not to blame, and that is why I support the teachers 100 percent
From 2005 to 2016, we are back to square one. We thought the problem would be solved when we removed the Musa/Fonseca PUP from government, and replaced them with Barrow and the UDP. And look where we are now. To my PUP friends, you had, and you still have, some good people. Not all of your leaders were bad. But the government SYSTEM was flawed, terribly flawed. And so, now we have to deal with cleaning up the mess left behind. To my UDP friends, your leader, our Prime Minister, Hon. Dean Barrow, is just a man; a bright and eloquent man, at that; but still, like all of us, a flawed human being; and he is functioning inside a flawed, a terribly flawed, government SYSTEM. And look where we are now.

Zika numbers revised: nearly 600 suspected cases
Updated information released this week by the Ministry of Health indicates that the number of suspected Zika cases in Belize is approaching 600, with the number of laboratory-confirmed positive cases totaling 46 as of last week. Information shared with us last week by the Ministry of Health, after a request we submitted on September 1 for data, indicated that there were 341 suspected and 42 confirmed cases. However, at a press conference held on Tuesday in Belize City, Lorena Perez, Surveillance Officer, Epidemiology Unit in the Ministry of Health, presented the revised numbers, signaling that the number of suspected cases is in fact much higher. Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero, told Amandala today that the Ministry has refined its classification of suspected cases. He said that whereas initially, fever was included among the symptoms used as a criteria to determine whether a patient may have Zika, they have since found that not all Zika cases result in fever, so the criteria for determining a suspected case involves the patient having a rash and conjunctivitis, and coming from an area of the country where Zika cases have been reported.

Senate debate composition of Senate Select Committee tomorrow, Friday
“The Prime Minister is being deceitful, he is being a hypocrite just like the Minister of Immigration and Minister of Police,” said PUP Leader, John Briceño, who today slammed the government for wanting to have more representatives than the Opposition on the Senate Select Committee. That issue — the configuration of the Senate Select Committee, which is to investigate the findings presented in the Special Report of the Auditor General on the Passport, Visa and Nationality Departments, will be debated on Friday at 10 a.m. in the Senate. The Opposition Leader wasted no time, however, in expressing his concerns.

The Reporter

Happening now: BNTU and other unions hold meetings; Senate has special sitting
The Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) is currently holding a meeting with its members in preparation for its planned industrial action on Monday. Several other unions have also held or are also holding meetings with their membership to reach consensus on what form of support they will […]

Technicality saves man from sodomy sentence
Basil Willis, aka “ET” a resident of Black Orchid Street, this week walked free of sodomy charges due to a technicality. Willis now 49, was happy when the charge was dismissed on Friday morning by Magistrate Carlon Mendoza in Court 5. The dismissal came about after Magistrate […]

Erasmo Lino walks from a Roaring Creek murder due to Nolle Prosequi
The DPP office has made its first Nolle Prosequi submission for this session. Erasmo Lino, who was represented in court by attorney Tricia Pitts Anderson, saw his murder case entered as a case of nolle prosequi and told he was a free man. No official reasons were […]

Man on remand for sexual assault on minor
A 40-year-old maintenance worker, Jose Luis Gonzalez, finds himself on remand at the Belize Central Prison after he was denied bail for touching a minor inappropriately on her breast. Gonzalez who was unrepresented, appeared before Chief Magistrate Anne Marie Smith in Court 1 on Wednesday, where he […]

Missing man turns up dead; murdered
A man who went missing on Independence Day and whose family turned to social media to help locate him, turned up dead – the victim of a murder. Rudolph Selgado, 33, who had just moved to Roaring Creek Village, was discovered about two miles away […]

PUP blasts GOB for criticizing BNTU
The People’s United Party (PUP) has condemned the government for what it terms as “unreasonable and vicious attacks on the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) and its members”. In a strongly-worded press release that the party issued this week, it summarized the recent meeting which […]

Hundreds of suspected Zika cases, less than 50 confirmed
The Ministry of Health this week, held a press conference to update the nation about the status of the Zika virus outbreak in the country, showing that there are more suspected than confirmed cases. The Ministry assembled Dr. Marvin Manzanero, Director of Health Services; Lorna Perez Surveillance […]

McAfee documentary reveals murder plot; Deputy ComPol says police can investigate
Assistant Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams, says there are some areas the Belize Police Department can investigate pertaining to a 2011 murder, following a television documentary this week about John McAfee, an American computer programmer/businessman who fled Belize following another murder on Ambergris Caye in […]

Matthew strengthens to a category 3 hurricane overnight!
Matthew, which only two days ago was only a tropical storm, has now strengthened to become a category 3 hurricane! Matthew now packs maximum-sustained winds of 115 miles per hour (mph), according to the US National Hurricane Center. The hurricane is moving west-southwest at 12 […]

Breaking Belize News

NEMO issues Advisory 1
.The National Meteorological Service and the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) has issued advisory No. 1 on Hurricane Matthew. Matthew is being closely monitored as a powerful category 4 hurricane. Matthew is located at 13.5 North latitude and 71.6 West Longitude packing winds of 140 miles […]

Matthew strengthens to a Category 5 Hurricane
.This evening, hurricane Matthew was upgraded to a category 5 hurricane with top winds measured at 160 mph as it moved across the Caribbean Sea on a potentially catastrophic path to Jamaica. Matthew continues to move west-southwest through the Caribbean Sea. It is the strongest […]

Belize Workers Union says it is time to ‘move the cause to the next level’
.The Belize Workers Union issued a release today expressing their full support for the BNTU’S decision to strike. The release states that the BWU stand in solidarity to ‘move the cause to the next level’. In their release, they stated that the fight of the […]

Division goes in favour of Government on amended motion
Senator Ashley Rocke joined the six Government Senators to carry the motion he presented, amended, for a Senate Special Select Committee on Immigration Audits. The Opposition’s senators and those for the business community and unions voted against. The Opposition’s motion was removed prior to […]

Senate approves amendments to motion for Senate Select Committee on Immigration Audits but not composition
The Senate has approved several amendments to the original motion brought 1 Government Senator, 1 […]

COLA: Senator Rocke does not represent the Church
.Calling him a “traitor” and a “sellout”, COLA president Geovannie Brackett made clear he does not represent the Church and in fact has crossed to the Government’s service. While the Senate is currently suspended debating the motion raised by Rocke, COLA insisted that Rocke had […]

Brackett, et al. thrown out of House after interruption
Police removed president of Citizens Organized for Liberty through Action (COLA) Geovannie Brackett and some supporters in order after they interrupted this morning’s meeting of the Senate. As Church Senator Ashley Rocke presented a motion to constitute the Senate Special Select Committee, he mentioned […]

Competing motions to be debated at Senate
.A special meeting of the Senate is underway in Belmopan. The Senate is first considering a motion to suspend the Standing Orders of the Senate to allow for discussion on the implementation of a Senate Special Select Committee to investigate the Special Audit Report on […]

SOUTHCOM visits Belize
.Admiral Kurt Walter Tidd, the Commander of United States Southern Command concluded a two-day visit to Belize yesterday with a meeting held with Commander Belize Defense Force, Brigadier General David Jones and Chief of Defense Staff of the Guatemalan Armed Forces, Major General Juan Manuel […]

3 Teenagers Arrested In Orange Walk for Home Invasion Robbery
Police in Orange Walk have arrested 3 teenagers for a home invasion robbery that happened on September 29, 2016. According to reports, Kenny Carranza, 28, of Trial Farm Village, Orange Walk reported that on Thursday, September 29, 2016 at 6:30 p.m., while at home […]

Matthew becomes a Category 3 Hurricane
Hurricane Matthew is rapidly strengthening in the Caribbean sea. This morning Matthew became a Category 3 Hurricane with maximum-sustained winds of 115 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. It was moving to the west-southwest at 12 mph and was located 495 miles east-southeast […]

Village justice for 2 robbers in Santa Familia village
Last night, an elderly man from Santa Familia village was the victim of a home invasion. The man in his early 80’s, Tanishlau Carrias was at home when two people, a man and a woman rushed into his house and beat him up. Reports are […]

Blogs

30 Reasons to Visit Belize
Coming from the dry ochre desert of Oaxaca, Belize was humid, lush, and full of delicious food. My trip to the country was brief but memorable. And I’m not even talking about the scars on my leg. Located at the Northern edges of Central America, Belize was one the last British colonies on the American continent. Since its relatively recent independence in 1981, it is part of the British Commonwealth. It borders Guatemala, but the two aren’t the friendliest of neighbors. Guatemala has claimed the land held by Belize in whole or in part since 1821. Guatemala, independent from Spain as of 1821, claims that under a 1859 treaty with Great Britain, it agreed to recognize what was then British Honduras so long as Great Britain built a road from Guatemala to Punta Gorda. In 1940, Guatemala said that treaty was void, since the road was never built and other economic assistance never supplied. Belize, on the other hand, says that they weren’t the ones to have signed the treaty, and thus they are not bound by it. Belize also argues that under international law, Guatemala is bound to honor the treaty even without the road’s construction.

The 10 Most Colorful Birds of Belize
There are many attractions in Belize that are worth placing on the top of your travel checklist. The charming islands, the ancient Mayan Temples, and the lush rainforest are just a few examples, but there’s one attraction often overlooked: the wide variety of birds that can be seen across the country. According to the book "Birds of Belize", there are approximately 574 known species of birds found in the country. After consulting with a local birding enthusiast, we’ve compiled our list for “The 10 Most Colorful Birds of Belize”.

International Sources

Another Robbery Near Port Of Belize
Carnival Corporation (CCL) is always in the news, this time it involves the safety and security of a guest who went ashore during a cruise. Sometimes the company makes headlines for positive reasons, such as being rated America’s Most Trusted Cruise Line based on the Reader’s Digest Trusted Brand Survey. However, the most recent newsmaking happening centered on a guest robbed at gunpoint near the port of Belize. (See also: This Is America’s Most Trusted Cruise Line.) This incident was reported by Jim Walker’s Cruise Law News. According to The New York Times, Walker is "a maritime lawyer in Miami who has attended more than half a dozen Congressional hearings about cruise ship crime and passenger safety." According to the Cruise Law News, Carnival contacted the guest after the cruise to state that it would increase guest awareness and security at that port, despite the incident taking place just outside the port.

The Obscure, Legal Drug That Fuels John McAfee
In late 2010, anti-virus software pioneer and self-described “God of computer security” John McAfee underwent a dramatic personality shift. Once avowedly sober and gregarious, forever surrounded by a cheerful entourage of yoga enthusiasts and light-aircraft pilots, he in short order became socially isolated, living alone with a shifting roster of prostitutes and armed ex-felon bodyguards at a pair of secluded compounds in Belize. Around the same time, the former teetotaler started posting to a website for recreational drug users called Bluelight in which he described his experiments with various types of bath salts. “I think it’s the finest drug ever conceived,” he wrote of one, singling out “the indescribable hypersexuality” of the “super perv powder,” but warning that “I had visual and auditory hallucinations and the worst paranoia of my life.”

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