Belize News Daily, 7/10/2017 to 7/20/2017, Ambergris Caye

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

The San Pedro Sun

Police Report
Kept Prohibited Firearm: On Tuesday, July 18th, San Pedro police conducted a search at a house located in the San Mateo area. The search led to the discovery of a .45 caliber pistol, Colt brand, seven .45 live rounds and magazine under a mattress in the bedroom. Present at the time of the search was 42-year-old Maria Elena Paguada, 18-year-old Tony Montana McDonald, and two minors of San Mateo.
Drug Trafficking: On Monday, July 17th, Belize City Police conducted a search on 29-year-old Corazon Artulio Cortez, construction worker of San Pedro Town. The search resulted in the discovery of 339.2 grams of cannabis. Police have since arrested and charged Cortez for the offence of “Drug Trafficking”.

Belizean Children will Participate in CODICADER Under 15 Games
The National Sports Council would like to inform the public that Belize will be participating in the upcoming CODICADER Under 15 Games scheduled to be held in Honduras from August 20-26, 2017. The President of CODICADER Licenciado Gerardo A. Fajardo Fernandez today sent an official invitation to Belize to participate in these upcoming games. Belize had contacted the CODICADER President to request consideration for Belizean children to continue to participate in the CODICADER Games, even though Belize is unable to host the Disability Games (ages 16 to 19) previously slated for October 2017.

Lighthouse Christian Radio celebrates its 13th Anniversary
With the slogan, “Shining the Light on Darkness”, Lighthouse Christian Radio 101.3FM has been providing a variety of Christian-based programming and music for 24 hours, seven days a week. On Sunday, July 16th, the radio station celebrated its 13th Anniversary. Pastor Clive Welsh spearheads the station, and is optimistic that his ministry will continue to positively influence the community of San Pedro, Caye Caulker, and across parts of Belize. Lighthouse Christian Radio is a non-commercial station that currently hosts half-hour teaching programs, and a variety of Christian music, including contemporary, praise and worship, Reggae, Spanish and Caribbean. They also provide daily local, national, international, and Central American news broadcasts, while occasionally airing two segments, ‘Daily Devotional Thought’ and ‘Who’s Who?’. In an effort to accommodate the majority of Lighthouse Christian Radio listeners, a Spanish broadcast of teaching programs and music is played daily in the evenings and early mornings.

Island Pool Supply donates buckets to DFC Eco Rangers
Months after the ‘Development Finance Corporation (DFC) Eco Rangers’ youth group was formed, sponsorship has allowed them to continue their mission to keep La Isla Bonita clean by beautifying, gardening, and cleaning their residential area in DFC. On Thursday, July 14th, Island Pool Supply handed over 40 buckets to the group to use as trash bins. DFC Eco Rangers remains active in advocating to keep the island garbage-free, and currently participates in several clean-up activities, such as picking up trash, placing trash bins for public use, planting trees/flowers, and educating people on which plants are good to plant in their yard. They also sell plants in an effort to beautify the island and raise money to support their efforts.

Ambergris Today

Happy Kids At Camp Starfish For Children With Disabilities
The fun has commenced as Ambergris Caye Camp Starfish is back for another exciting annual summer program. Activities started since Monday, July 17, 2017 at the San Pedro Lions Den. This program was created for children with disabilities to interact with one another, learn the alphabet, to read, play games and have fun. This year a special education teacher, physical therapist, speech and language therapist and Projects Abroad Volunteers join the original SPHS buddies who annually help with these children!

Travel Advisory For Air Travelers To The USA
Air Travelers departing the Phillip S.W. International Airport en route to destinations in the United States of America are advised that effective Wednesday, July 19, 2017, in compliance with US security requirements, additional security measures will be implemented on outbound passengers flying from Belize to the U.S.

Belize Diabetes Association Of New York Made Annual Foot Care Mission To Belize
The Belize Diabetes Association of New York (BDANY) made its annual Foot Care Mission to Belize from July 3rd to 9th, 2017. This year’s mission brought 14 volunteers of which seven were members of the BDANY and seven were medical personnel comprising of a surgeon and registered nurses, with emphasis in foot care, and a diabetic educator. The mission provided screening and treatment to over 300 people in Belize City and Dangriga and educated over 50 nurses and doctors. Dr. Steven Wells, Chief Executive Officer of the Diabetic Foot Center Group, was even able to save a young man from losing a limb.

Misc Belizean Sources

Sagebrush Church Summer Event
A fun evening of bible stories, worship, games, challenges, snacks and good company. Friday, July 21, 5:30 - 8:30pm, Paradise Theater.

Rendering Design and Bill of Quantities Quote for the Caye Caulker Craft Market
The Belize Tourism Board, in an effort to enhance the Belize experience in the Palapa Garden, is seeking to place a bid for the submission of design and Bill of Quantities of a Craft Market in Palapa Garden in Caye Caulker Village. Below are detailed minimum requirements to be considered for the development of the design. Craft Market minimum requirements: Developer most conduct a walk-through of the Palapa Garden area and take necessary measurements and note available space Design should accommodate a minimum of 20 artisans Design should take into consideration limited space available o Suggestions: Five booths each divided into four stalls - Submit by July 20°, 2017 to: BTBbidsPbelizetourismboard.org.

Projects Abroad Belize is Hiring!
Projects Abroad Belize is on the search for a motivated Public Health Coordinator. If you want to work within communities to improve their health status, apply today. Feel free to message me with any questions and please share!!!!!

Government of Belize Providing Safe Water To over 1,000 villagers of Pueblo Viejo & Conejo Creek, Toledo District
The Government of Belize, in its continued commitment to address the basic needs of Belizeans in the areas of water, sanitation and health, is ensuring that the men, women and children of Pueblo Viejo and Conejo Creek have access to the supply of safe water to meet their daily needs such as cooking, drinking, bathing and washing. The new solar energy water systems will be officially inaugurated by Minister of Economic Development, Petroleum, Investment, Trade and Commerce, Hon Erwin Contreras; and Minister of Labour, Local Government and Rural Development, Hon Hugo Patt at 10:00 am at the pump-house in Pueblo Viejo and 2:00 pm at the pump-house in Conejo Creek on Thursday July 20, 2017. Equally important, the solar energy water systems will also contribute significantly in the reduction in the vulnerability of men, women and children to incidences of water-borne, food borne, vector borne and communicable diseases, improving the quality of life of villagers in over 150 households.

Missing Person
Please be on the lookout for 15 year old Delcy Chi who was reported missing on the 12.7.17 Delcy is about 4 feet tall. If seen, kindly call 911 or the Orange Walk Police Station at 322-2022.

Belizean Athletes Going for Gold at the Commonwealth Youth Games 2017
The Commonwealth Youth Games (CYG) is an international multi-sport event organized by the Commonwealth Games Federation. The games are held every four years with the current Commonwealth Games format. The first version was held in Edinburgh, Scotland from August 10th to 14th, 2000. Representing Belize is Joshire Stanley in track and field, Hilary Gladden and Adrian Marshalleck in tennis, and Nashen Ysaguirre and Gian Lino in cycling. This year's games are being held in Nassau Bahamas. We join the nation in wishing them the best of luck.

What's It Worth?
Coming to Orange Walk this Saturday, July 22nd......bring your old photos, treasured antiques, and stories to the Banquitas House of Culture. The images and stories you contribute will be told in the upcoming book titled "A Walk Through Orange Walk". This is an initiative of the Institute for Social and Cultural Research (NICH), in partnership with Museum of Belize, Banquitas House of Culture, and The National Heritage Library.

Reproduction Art class
Level 1 of our 'Reproduction Art class' is complete, here are a few photos from our wrap up session highlighting artwork from some promising 'Mini-Belizean artists'!

Seedlings for sale at Ya'axché Conservation Trust
Seedlings are available for sale at our nursery. Through July, fruit and timber seedlings are going for BZ$2.00 per plant except for Criollo Cacao which is at BZ$20!

LARION LEWIS AKA "LARRY SHAFT"---SINGER & PLAYER OF INSTRUMENTS!
Larry Lewis aka Larry Sfaft was so talented as a young boy that the old man, Mr. McGregor, who was the heart and soul of the Harmonnets Band and music operation began to groom Larry to sing with the Harmonnetts. As a young teenager, Larry later sang for the Colville Young, "Messengers", who sold his band to Santino Castillo. As a singer for "Santinos Messengers" Larry Shaft sang for the biggest crowds at that time in the variety shows at the, "Palace Theater", until it was closed down. Larry also performed with "Bamiki Bandula", "Dub Masters", the "Mystic Rhythm Section". Like Glenn Tillett and many others who knew Larry and that he really came to public attention and acclaim when KREM began to give him some props after he performed at "KREMEXCEL", a concert organized and produced for KREM Radio in February 1992 by Glenn Tillett.

BELIZEAN ATHLETIC QUEENS & KINGS TRIUMPHED AT CENTRAL AMERICAN ATHLETIC MEET IN HONDURAS!
It appears that Belizean athletics has done better abroad historically today that it has done at home since the 1970s explosion of Belizean athletics at MCC Grounds in Belize of the 60s and 70s Track & Field explosion. Though Belize had produced so many outstanding home bred track athletes since the 1950s like Colin Thurton, Sonny Meighan, Sir Henry (The Fly), Harrison Pilgrim, Dorla Flowers, Philip Andrewin, the late Michael Hyde, Ernest Morris, Jude Lizama, Maurice Jones, Ernest Clare, and others too many to mention, Belizean track and field records has not shown any glorious pass where Belizean athletics had excelled both in Central America and the Caribbean. If there are any then this should be an important exercise for those of us here at Belizean Legends who has chronicled these legendary Belizean athletes.

In Joyful Two: UWI Arts Ensemble in Belize
First show.... This Thursday, July 20th - 7PM. Bliss Centre for the Performing Arts. Price: $20.00. Present Student ID- $10.00.

Rescued parrot
Hi there, I am Edward. I came to BBR at the beginning of May. The tree with my nest was chopped down. Somehow I ended up with a stone-like hard poop at the end of my left wing and it took 20 minutes to soak it off. That's how I got my excellent full name of Edward Scissorhands! I was also bitten by some other bird above my left eye and below my right jaw and into my beak Life was tough for me out there, but looking at me now, you can not really tell. I am in outside enclosure now. I have a few stress marks on my feathers, but I am happily flying with my mates and will be flying free in no time at all!

BHA participates in Belize Virtual Expo and the Digital Marketing Seminar
The Belize Hotel Association participated in two of the Belize Tourism Board's most recent marketing initiatives. The BTB Virtual Trade Show Expo was held on June 28 and 29, 2017 at the Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza Hotel in Belize City. Of note is that the Belize Tourism Board received in London, the Latin American Travel Association award for innovation and creativity for this first ever Belize Virtual Expo. The Virtual Expo, brought together over 25 tourism industry partners that included hoteliers, tour operators, event planners, transfer companies and associations including the BHA and the BTIA. All participants had 20 minute prescheduled appointments within a period of two 8 hour days, where they met on a virtual platform with over 100 international buyers from the USA, Canada, Germany, Netherlands, Great Britain, Argentina and other countries throughout the world.

BelizeINVEST, BELTRAIDE, meets with the Houston Black Chamber of Commerce
BelizeINVEST, BELTRAIDE, hosted the Houston Black Chamber of Commerce in Belize on July 19th 2017 in sharing information on investment opportunities in the various priority sectors for investment in Belize. The delegation included a wide array of companies and interests seeking additional information on the following sectors. These include: Tourism & Leisure, Agri-Business & Agro-Processing, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Offshore Outsourcing, Sustainable Energy, and Light Manufacturing and Logistics.

U20 Central American Female Volleyball Tournament Schedule
If you're in Town, Come out and Make Some Noise!! If you Can't make it Tune in on TNC Channel 10 and Scream at your TVs!!!

National Corn Coconut and BBQ Festival
CONGRATULATIONS TO TOONE MASEHUALOON for winning best FOOD BOOTH: they incorporated the two major aspects of this festival exceedingly well and educated the public at the same time and to C&A Crispy Tortilla Chips for placing second. They both get a free both at Next years festival.

National Corn Coconut and BBQ Festival
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE TOP 2 NON-PERISHABLE CATEGORY BOOTHS: Bowdaceous by Ursula & Janna's Fashions. Congratulations to Janna's Fashion's for winning the best in non perishable category. You will receive your booth for the next festival free of cost and to Bowdaceous your booth next year will be 1/2 price.

Renovation of Banquitas House of Culture Museum
Meet ISCR and Museum of Belize and Houses of Culture staff as we come together to work on the renovation of Banquitas House of Culture Museum area and to work on the publication A Walk through Orange Walk. Both institutions are working together for the successful launching and publication on our beautiful Orange Walk. Join us Saturday, July 22 at Banquitas and bring your documents, photographs, and collectibles to develop the story line of Sugar City.

Channel 7

Cops' Day On The Stand At Senate Select
The Senate Hearings on Immigration continued today and things got hot when 2 police officers testified. The first was the Retired Superintendent Julio Valdez, the now retired former Deputy commander of the National Criminal Investigations Branch. And in the afternoon session, Police Commissioner Allen Whylie was called. We start with this afternoon's testimony of Commissioner Whylie. Though he's not mentioned once in the Auditor General's reports for any type of questionable behavior, the Commissioner had to sit through 2 hours in the hot seat, while he was grilled by the Senators. It's been almost an entire year now that the Audit Reports have been out, and as you've been seeing in these hearings, there are layers and layers of irregularities and illegalities which happened at Immigration between 2011 and 2013. Persons got documents that they were not entitled to, and the systems of checks and balances were breached along the way.

Cop Says Of Immigration Mess: Went Looking For a Burglar, Found a Murder
But, if you believe today's other witness, Commissioner Whylie knew of irregularities at that department since late 2013, and early 2014. That's because the retired Superintendent Julio Valdez, stumbled upon some documents which were improperly removed from the Department. Those, you will remember, were from Arthur Saldivar, who said that someone took them out and handed them over to him. He eventually gave them to police, and Valdez was tasked to find out how they were removed without knowledge of the Department heads. He never did manage to find that out, but instead, he came upon what looked like a hustle. Today, he explained it to the Senate in an analogy. He said that he was tasked to investigate a burglary, and what he found when he went looking, was more like a murder. Here's how he explained what those documents from Saldivar revealed:

Who Gave The Order To Stop Investigation?
But, somewhere in the midst of Valdez's investigation, he suddenly stopped looking at the questionable nationalities that were granted in the Arthur Saldivar files. The Senate tried to find out why and failed, no matter how hard they pushed him. He refused to reveal what happened why he suddenly became more interested in finding out how the files left the Immigration Department, and ended up in Saldivar's hands. Here's the back and forth on that one: Hon. Eamon Courtenay - PUP Senator: "You were actually stopped?" Julio Valdez - Retired Police Superintendent: "No."

Whylie Says He Never Gave Order, And Don't Say He Did
So, if you follow Julio Valdez's testimony, he kept on suggesting that his superiors told him to refocus on the breech at the immigration Department, where the files were removed. It is unclear who he is pointing fingers to as the person who basically told him to abandon his investigation into these questionable nationalities for persons who did not qualify. His testimony happened in the morning, and so the Senate had ample time to ready themselves to question Whylie on it. Today, the Commissioner insisted that it's not him who gave the order, and if anyone suggests that he did, he will sue them. Here's that part of the inquiry:

Murder Suspect Turned Himself In
Lats night we told you about murder victim Phillip Samuels who was stabbed to death, allegedly by a friend. That friend is Cecil Gill - and police say he turned himself in early this morning: Sr. Supt. Mark Vidal, OC, Southside Commander: "We have the prime suspect in detention, he handed in himself at 12:30 this morning voluntarily so at present investigation continues, we are putting together the relevant interviews, statements and so we expect that by tomorrow following the directives of the DPP we have to submit the file for the DPP's consideration and once the directives are given we expect that by tomorrow we should have charged laid. The witnesses are people that are immediate and are very familiar with both the victim and the suspect so we believe that we pretty much have a good case here."

Vidal Says No Beatdowns
Senior Superintendent Vidal is about to complete three weeks as the Southside Commander and, the city has been generally calm. Now, three weeks is hardly a trend, but he stresses that the oppressive policing tactics which some predicted would come into force with his arrival, have not been in play at all:.. Sr. Supt. Mark Vidal, OC, Southside Commander: "While you may not be seeing murders they are other crimes being committed and as I've said we will go after those crimes or those persons committing those crimes that will not change. So we have been doing that so far, we have been carrying out our functions. There has not been any abuse of anybody's rights and we intend to continue that way by carrying out our function without abusing anyone and respecting people's right."

Sr. Supt. Vidal To Finnegan, Mohammed, Chester, Get With CYDP or Roll Out
And while he says his officers are "respecting people's rights", those who've experienced crime trends in the city know that an outbreak of violence can sometimes be only a heartbeat away. And that's where ongoing mediation comes in, to pre-empt retaliation before it erupts. Vidal's predecessor Chester Williams made his name keeping that effort going - but Vidal has unapologetically taken a different tack. He says he will do the policing and let the CYDP do the mediating; and he strongly urges all the independent mediators to "fall in" with the CYDP's efforts:

San Pedro Police Got Big Gun Before Crime Committed
And while that sounds distinctly like an invitation to fall in or step out, Vidal can speak plainly because gang violence is not currently spiking in the city. But the City's gang rivalries may be playing out in San Pedro. 12 days ago we saw the murder of 16 year old Julian Tun on San Pedro. He is believed to have been targeted for the attempt to carry out a hit on a prominent gang figure one year ago. Now, following up on that, yesterday afternoon, island police arrested a Belize City southsider who they believe may have gone out to San Pedro on a mission of retaliation.

Cops for Extortion At Court
Today two police officers appeared in the Magistrate's Court where they were charged for extortion. Corporal Marvin Salam and Constable Anthony Blair are accused of trying to blackmail Herman and Jessica Bhojwani after pulling them over last Saturday. According to reports, the cops stopped the Bhojwani's on Mahogany Street and demanded $5000 in exchange for not charging them.

GSU Got A Pound of Cocaine In A Boat
We always report on marijuana busts, but tonight, there's a story of one pound and six ounces of cocaine that police found in the city. This evening at 4:00, the GSU searched a boat on Site Street where they found this plastic bag with 642 grams of cocaine. That's one pound, six ounces. They also found 21 grams, or about half an ounce of marijuana. No one was on the boat and the drugs were labelled as found property.

Weed Bust On a Bus
And while that's what the GSU caught in the city, the MIT was on the northern highway where officers found a stash of weed on a Morales bus. They stopped the bus that goes from Corozal to Benque Viejo at a Crooked Tree checkpoint. Police searched it and found two kilos of weed. The cops also came up on five sacks of contraband white onions which were turned over to customs. Nobody claimed the weed cargo, so it was retrieved and labelled as found property.

Kids After The Storm
After a hurricane hits, the main focus is to gather all the belongings you can salvage and try to re-build your home pretty much your life, all over again. While it is very important that you secure food, clothing and shelter, the team at UNICEF says there is another very important element in disaster recovery that is overlooked. That is the safety and overall well-being of children. UNICEF hosted a week long training for social workers, and CEMO representatives among others to show them how to help and support children after a catastrophe, and also after personal trauma. It's called "Return to Happiness" and we stopped by for today's session at the Biltmore. Two of the facilitators discussed the importance of this training.

Maypen Gets New Bridge After Long Wait
For almost 35 years, the residents of Maypen in the rural Belize District have been relying on an old, wooden bridge to cross over Black Creek and get to and from their village. Over the years, the bridge became dilapidated, making it even more difficult for villagers with produce to cross it. Now, that problem has been solved. Today the Ministries of Transport and Works officially opened a new metal bridge connecting Maypen to the rest of the country. We went to the opening ceremony and spoke to Belize Rural North Area Rep. Edmund Castro as well as one of the Village Councillors about the advantages the new bridge provides...

Police Charge Cowpen Driver
Cowpen taximan, Ernesto Cadle has been charged for knocking down and killing motorcyclist Benedicto Mendez. Cadle was charged with Causing Death by Careless Conduct, Manslaughter by Negligence, Drove Unlicensed Motor Vehicle, Drove Motor Vehicle with alcohol concentration above prescribe Limit and Drove without due care and attention. The accident happened on Monday night around 7:00. Cadle was driving his Isuzu Rodeo from Cowpen junction to Independence when he knocked Mendez off his motorcycle between miles 36 and 37. Mendez died on the spot.

Fight Talk In Sugar Industry
The Sugar Industry is coming off a season of record sugar production, but as we told you last week, the management of ASR/BSI and the largest cane farmers group, which is the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association, aren't exactly seeing eye to eye on one key issue. That's the 2015 cane purchase agreement. BSI wants to remove the three-year opt-out clause and allow the contract to run for its full term until 2022. But the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association don't want to get locked in like that, and, in fact, they want to re-open the discussion on how much they get paid for bagasse. And, tonight, that has ASR/BSI pressing the panic button. The company sent out an ominous press release today. It stresses, quote, "With the exception of BSCFA, all industry stakeholders have supported this initiative, including the Corozal Sugar Cane Producers Association, the Progressive Sugar Cane Producers Association and the Government of Belize."

Regional Volleyball Tournament Starts, Help the Homegirls
The U20 Central American Female Volleyball Championship kicked off this afternoon at the SCA Multipurpose Center. For the rest of the week, Belize will be hosting 6 other teams from across Central America in a head to head tournament to qualify for the Continental Championships. We stopped by the tournament earlier and spoke to the President of the Belize Volleyball Association, Alan Sharp, about why it's important for everyone to come out and support our girls...

Weed On The Riverside
Police found 9 pounds of weed during an early morning drug operation in Santa Elena, Cayo today. They found the drugs in a large black parcel by the Riverside area on George Price Avenue. The police later found a 4.5 foot tall weed tree in an empty lot on Saint Lucia Street. The weed was deposited as found property.

Judge Didn't Believe Cops
Two women were acquitted of charges of assaulting a police officer in the Magistrate's Court today. According to reports made by PC Cynthia Turner, in November 2016, Shanique Meighan and Deva Gaynair were parked in front of the Holy Redeemer Credit Union when she approached them. Turner alleges that as she got closer, the pair assaulted, obstructed and used indecent language against her, despite her being armed with a pistol.

Courts Scholarship Winners
Today 8 kids from all over the country were awarded the Courts "Dare to Dream" 4 year high school scholarship. There were about 65 applicants and 25 were interviewed and 8 of them were chosen. A small awards ceremony was held this morning at the Chamber of Commerce building and PR officer Grisel Carballo along with two recipient's discussed the impact this scholarship will have on their academic life. Grisel Carballo - Public Relations Officer, UNICOMER "What they will be getting today is that they are going to give our scholarship program will consist of 80 percent, books, tuition and fees what this consist of is it consist that what we do we want; our commitment would be the 80 percent the 20 percent commitment will be of the parent and the commitment of the child will of course be to maintain a grade point average of 3.0 and above every semester."

Petition Against Norwegian
As we reported weeks ago, Norwegian Cruise Line and its Harvest Caye Port facility have run afoul of the conservation community by taking charge of a scarlet macaw named Big Red. The bird was taken from the Belize Bird Rescue to Harvest Caye as part of their nature exhibit. Critics say a Macaw's environment is in the rainforest, not on an island. And now, they have launched an online petition to call out Harvest Caye for wildlife exploitation. Those opponents of Harvest Caye hope to secure the release of Big Red and his companions. They are asking for a thousand signatures and have gotten 347 thus far.

Police In Yabra
Earlier in the news, you saw police Southside commander Marco Vidal. He was in the Yabra area on Caesar Ridge road for the weekly meet and greet session. He said that area - known to be populated by gangs - has been calm: Northside police did their meet and greet in the upscale Driftwood Bay area.

Channel 5

Ex-Investigator Julio Valdez Will Not Say Who Redirected His Investigation into Arthur Saldivar Files
In 2014, Retired Superintendent of Police Julio Valdez, then-deputy of National Crimes Investigation Branch, wrote the Director of Public Prosecutions, Cheryl-Lynn Vidal, concerning his investigation into a trove of files [...]

Dueling Audits Stymied Further Investigation of Nationality Records
The former senior cop stated that this branch of the investigation came about after his colleagues in Belize City spoke with Saldivar and retrieved the files. But when he attempted [...]

ComPol Whylie to Valdez and Senate: ‘It Wasn’t Me’
The only man above Valdez, indeed above all officers in the Police Department, is Commissioner Allen Whylie. Appointed in 2013, he was previously C.E.O. in the Ministry of National Security, [...]

Commissioner Had No Reason to Halt Investigation
The Commissioner blames ‘media spin’ for the misunderstanding and what he says is his subsequent decision to withdraw from any administrative handling of either the ‘missing files’ case or the [...]

Files Revealed Incomplete Addresses for Would-Be Belizeans
But what was among that list of files handed over? Valdez read a fairly long list of nationality files and accompanying documents for some familiar names such as Yiu-Pang Chen [...]

Background Checks: the Law or a Decoration?
Speaking of background checks, were the Police Department or Ministry of Immigration consulted about the Cabinet’s decision to stop Special Branch police from carrying out the standard background checks on [...]

Cecil Gill to Face Charges in Philip Samuels’ Murder
We’ll come back to the senate hearings later, but a Belize City resident wanted for the stabbing death of Phillip Samuels has surrendered himself to police and is being held [...]

What’s in Police’s Won Hong Kim File? ComPol Doesn’t Know
The Senate hearing continued into this afternoon where the Commissioner of Police Allen Whylie gave testimony. The other major investigation to be carried out by the Police Department was in [...]

ComPol: We Will Investigate Immigration Charges When Senate is Done
Commissioner of Police Allen Whylie has been seen to be dragging his feet on investigating the allegations within the Auditor General’s Report. He recently stated that he would wait on [...]

Manslaughter Charges for Alleged Drunken Driver in Cowpen Accident
On Tuesday, police formally arrested and charged forty-eight-year-old Ernesto Cadle for manslaughter by negligence and causing the death by careless conduct of sixty-two-year-old Benedicto Mendez. The Belizean taxi driver of [...]

Alleged Crooked Cops Busted for Shaking Down Students
This afternoon, CIB personnel escorted two of their own to court to be arraigned for extortion. Corporal Marvin Salam, a police officer of Corozal, along with Corporal Anthony Blair of [...]

G.S.U. Find Powered Cocaine and Marijuana in Boat
GSU police have seized almost a pound and a half of powder cocaine from the streets of the Old Capital during an operation conducted this evening. At around four o’clock, [...]

Duo Unable to Ditch Weed on Southside
A Corozal along with a Belize City man is tonight out on bail after they were arraigned for drug trafficking. Both were busted on Tuesday with almost four and a [...]

Courts Dares Youths to Dream
Courts Dare to Dream Scholarship program kicked into gear today for eight students from across the country. They received four-year scholarships to high schools which the company says is part [...]

Making Mesoamerican Reef Work for Central American Economies
The Meso-American Reef Leadership Program is an initiative that promotes leadership towards the conservation of the reef which is shared by Mexico, Belize, Guatemala and Honduras. Annually, the program brings [...]

Police on the Beat on Caesar Ridge
This afternoon, Belize City police took to the streets to acquaint themselves with residents of the Port Loyola, Driftwood Bay and Palm Grove communities. The weekly meet and greet took [...]

After 3 Decades, May Pen Builds Bridge to River Valley
Life will become easier for the residents of May Pen, Belize District. After a decade of waiting, they finally got their wish. The community will now be able to travel [...]

CTV3

Customs Officer Becomes First Belizean To Graduate From WCO Career Development Programme
The World Customs Organization Career Development Program was established back in 2009 in collaboration with Japan Customs and provides selected candidates with an opportunity to undertake work at the WCO Secretariat. The program runs for a period of ten months and entails a number of goals which seek to enable its participants to one, acquire knowledge, skills and international work experience; two, to develop and enhance networks among WCO Members and the Secretariat. Three, to enhance the research activities of the WCO to support and assist the Secretariat in its mission and tasks; and finally to develop a pool of highly capable officials with proficiency in WCO Member administrations.

Compol Says He Knew Nothing About File
But while ComPol Whylie was adamant that he was supportive of Valdez’ investigation and played no role in its premature ending, he certainly wasn’t interested enough to do the necessary follow up to ensure that it was completed. Allen Whylie - Commissioner of Police: “As I said I thought Mr. Valdez had concluded that investigation and had send the file to the DPP.” Senator Eamon Courtney – Member Special Senate Select Committee: “But he hasn’t, you are the Compol?” Allen Whylie - Commissioner of Police: “But I never knew that, he didn’t tell me that.”

BSI/ASR And BSCFA At Odds Over Proposed Amendments On Commercial Agreement
Tonight there is tension in the sugar industry between the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association and BSI/ASR. This comes at the heels of a proposal made by ASR to upgrade the factory in preparation of the coming changes in the EU market regime in October 2017. In that proposal ASR proposes to invest twenty two million dollars to increase production of value-added, direct consumption sugars. For this investment to happen however, BSI/ASR is proposing to amend the 2015 cane purchase agreement to cement the current revenue share agreement as well as the payment formula for bagasse until 2022.

Mexican Embassy Issues Warning To Mexican Taxi Drivers
Since the beginning of this week, we have been reporting about the discovery of 1,578 grams of cannabis which was found by police inside a Chetumal taxi cab that was stopped and searched at the Santa Elena border area over the weekend, in which the driver 55 year old Jorge Anzures Alfaro of Mexican nationality and 22 year old Belizean Jermaine Sanker were arrested and charged for the crime of drug trafficking.

Former President Top Cop Testifies Before Senate Select Committee
Two senior men in the Police Department, Commissioner of Police Allen Whylie and Superintendent Julio Valdez, who is now retired, appeared before the Senate Select Committee today to provide answers to questions for a number of matters involving the Immigration Department and the findings of the Auditor General’s office which carried out an intense audit after visas had been stolen in December 2012.

Commisioner Whylie Denies Interrupting Investigation Into Immigration Department
Police Commissioner Allen Whylie was also in the hot seat for his Department’s refusal to investigate the criminal aspects of the Elvin Penner/Won Hong Kim scandal. Penner facilitated, with the aid of immigration officials, fraudulent Belizean nationality and passport for Won Hong Kim, a South Korean national in jail in Taiwan. Because the Police Department was seemingly uninterested in a criminal investigation, in February 2014 the Opposition successfully applied to the Supreme Court for an order to compel Commissioner Whylie to investigate. But the order didn’t seem to have the effect of aggressive Police work into the wrongdoing, and today the Senate tried to find out why.

LOVE FM

Tourism Ministry announces increased security at PGIA
The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation issued a travel advisory late this evening informing the public that additional security measures will be implemented on outbound passengers traveling from Belize to the US. The changes become effective on Wednesday July 19. According to the Ministry’s release, the measures are being implemented in compliance with US […]

Therese Martinez is first customs officer to graduate from Japan Career Development Programme
Therese Martinez became the first Customs Officer from Belize to graduate from the Japan Career Development Programme, a 10-month program based in Brussels. Martinez dedicated her time at the World Customs Organization specializing in Facilitation as a Professional Associate under the Compliance and Facilitation Directorate. She participated in four WCO missions abroad which included trips […]

Man flees after killing his friend
Belize City police are looking for Cecil Gill. He is wanted for questioning in respect to the fatal stabbing of 31 year old Phillip Samuels. Samuels was stabbed to the chest last night while he was socializing with some friends. Hipolito Novelo reporting… Thirty one year old Phillip Michael Samuels was with some friends at […]

Search still ongoing for Mark Pollard
Forty nine year old Mark Pollard remains missing tonight. It has been sixteen days since someone saw Pollard. There is security footage that captured him on July 3 on the Phillip Goldson Highway. While the hopes of the family of finding him alive, Senior Superintendent of Police, Marco Vidal, says the search continues. Sr. Supt. […]

Police say they have suspect in Hammon Lemoth’s murder
Twenty three year old, Hammon Lemoth was in an induced coma after being shot to the head on the night of May 23. More than a month later, he succumbed to the gunshot wound and now south side police are investigating a murder. This afternoon, Commander Senior Supertintendent of Police, Marco Vidal gave an update. […]

Bus owner speaks of new parking area in Chetumal
Today most Belizean buses crossed into Chetumal City, Mexico. Love News understands that most bus operators have resumed their full runs to Chetumal after Mexican authorities reportedly retracted most of their demands. Bus drivers were moved from the Lazaro Cardenas Market in the City and are now parking at the old ADO bus terminal located […]

COLA challenges authenticity of medical school
Citizens Organized for Liberty through Action, COLA, and Poor People Organization for A Healthy And Righteous Society today issued a joint release expressing concern over what it calls fake “diploma mills”. President for COLA, Giovanni Brackett says they remain concern over the legitimacy of some medical schools in Belize, particularly the school that was formerly […]

Texas State University students are conducting research on St. George’s Caye
Hipolito Novelo reporting… Students studying archaeology at Texas State University are in Belize with Anthropology Professor, Jim Garber. They are at Saint George’s Caye learning excavating, mapping and artifacts analysis technics as part of their archeological investigation program. Currently twelve students are digging up 13 skeletal remains buried at an Anglican cemetery on the caye. […]

Creative team from UWI Saint Augustine Campus in Belize
The University of Belize and the Anglican Diocese are hosting 48 persons from the Saint Augustine Campus of the University of the West Indies. The group is from the department of Creative and Festival Arts. They arrived in Belize today, and will be in the country for ten days to perform in three concerts and […]

Belize Bank hands out sixteen scholarships
Hipolito Novelo reporting… The Belize Bank limited handed out sixteen scholarships. One of the recipients was Daineira Flores. Daineira lives in a household of six. Her father is the sole income earner making the expenses strenuous on him. Daineira Flores, Scholarship Recipient “This scholarship is a blessing and it’s an opportunity for me to further […]

The Belize Times

VEGA AGAIN – Barrow – Can’t Touch This
As we go to press, the People’s United Party is announcing that it will hold a press conference early next week to reveal yet another shocking scandal out of the Ministry of Natural Resources involving former Deputy Prime Minister Gaspar Vega and members of his immediate family. But even as that land scandal exposing the corruption and greed of the Vega family and the former Deputy Prime Minister Gaspar Vega threatens to explode, Prime Minister Dean Barrow has said nothing and it is a certainty based on precedence that he will say nothing. As it has done in every instance, the evidence speaks for itself – but while the evidence speaks, the Prime Minister has refused to listen. The Belize Times has obtained files from the Ministry of Natural Resources leaked to us by high-level sources.

Suspected Child Killers Remanded – Bail Denied!
At 3:00 this afternoon, after a full week in Police custody Anke Doehm and her fourth husband David were finally charged in relation to the sexual abuse and brutal murder of Faye Lin Cannon, 13. Both appeared today before Chief Magistrate Ann Marie Smith and were arraigned on one count of the rarely used Cruelty to a Child, an indictable offence which carries a maximum sentence of ten years. They were refused bail and remanded to the Belize Central Prison until their next Court appearance scheduled for August 24th.

The Heredia/Harmouche Connection Revealed
After months of insisting that he was ready to face the Senate Select Committee, UDP’s Manuel Heredia Jr. finally had to answer questions about his rather “chummy” relationship with the Harmouche clan from San Pedro. In the Audit Report on Immigration irregularities, Heredia is called out for his role in nationality applications which were approved for Lebanese nationals from Ambergris Caye. All of them had the surname, “Harmouche” or “Harmouch”. In the section on Nationality, the Auditor General spends about 40 or so pages on the Lebanese nationals with that surname, and she determined that 11 of them got Belizean nationality just before the March 2012 General Elections. 38 of them got their first issue Belizean passports, or their first renewals between 2011 and 2013. A number of them got their nationalities, in a process helped along by Heredia’s intervention on their behalf.

Montero Says – “It Wasn’t Me”
UDP Minister Rene Montero went before the Senate Select Committee on Wednesday to tell them that he wasn’t trying to order the Immigration Officers to do anything unethical or illegal. His letters of recommendation are very different from those of his colleagues who insist that they are only making “good suggestions”. His letter of recommendation for nationality resembles an order from a Minister of Government to a subordinate in the public service, but when that was put to him he completely disagreed with the Senators, not surprisingly.

Only a Matter of Time
A good friend of mine, incidentally firmly entrenched in the UDP camp, sent me a clipping of a story – a Trinidadian man arrested and charged for a Facebook post in which he stated that somebody should rape the wife and daughter of the Prime Minister, Dr. Keith Rowley. I suspect this friend may have sent me this clipping in particular because of my political Facebook posts. I cannot understand why because when posting about my Prime Minister and his administration I am invariably saccharine sweet and complimentary. Maybe he doesn’t understand that when I refer to Ministers as corrupt, incompetent jackasses I mean it in the nicest possible way.

Critical Systems Failure
A 13-year-old is dead. She didn’t die in an accident. She wasn’t suffering from a terminal illness. She wasn’t a casualty of any natural disaster. It wasn’t her time. Faye Lin Cannon, a beautiful, intelligent child, died a terrible death at the hands of monsters. A post mortem examination has shown that she was beaten to death. Multiple ribs were broken and she had bruises on her body and a cut wound on her head. Somebody pressed so hard on her chest that the bone penetrated her heart. Faye Lin is dead because of the evil inside some of us.

Belize CitCo Unravels – City Suffers
As we go to press, Mayor Darrell Bradley continues to come under fire for his inability to publicly declare his intentions where the Mayoral seat is concerned. As the Belize Times told you two weeks ago, Bradley has informed insiders that he will not run for Mayor again, but has stopped short of making that decision official. We are told that Bradley has confided in friends that he is afraid to give up the bone for the shadow – meaning that if he gives up the Mayoral seat to go into Caribbean Shores where he will definitely be beaten by the PUP’s Kareem Musa, he would be a two-time loser with no Council to run back to and his political career would be for all intents and purposes over.

Question to Ministers
Would the Member for Queen Square and Prime Minister please confirm or deny credible reports that because GOB’s coffers are empty Cabinet has decided that pensions will now be taxable? Would the Member for Queen Square and Prime Minister please say why he has refused to allow an investigation into the corruption at the Ministry of Natural Resources under former Deputy Prime Minister Gaspar Vega? Would the Member for Orange Walk North and former Minister of Natural Resources please say exactly how many parcels of land across the country he now owns? Could he say also how many parcels of land are now owned by his wife, children, brothers and their families, cousins, nieces, nephews and other cronies?

Breaking Belize News

COMPOL says he did not do anything wrong
Compol Whylie was asked by Senator Ashley Rocke if it would have been hard to investigate a department where he was once the CEO. “I am a no nonsense person, I stand for discipline, fair play and I have no fear to investigate anybody […]

Two adults and 2 minors busted with gun and ammo in San Pedro
Yesterday around 3:30 p.m., police conducted a search in a wooden bungalow house located in the San Mateo area of San Pedro Town which led to the discovery of a .45 caliber pistol and seven .45 live rounds under a mattress in the bedroom. At the […]

Two men arrested in Belize City for drug trafficking 2033 kg of weed
According to police reports, yesterday around 11:50 am, while police were conducting patrol on Louise Bevans Street, Belize City, they saw a green Geo Prizm car which was occupied by 20-year-old Jesus Emmanuel Valera, construction worker of Corozal Town, and 28-year-old, Calvin Jerome Cathouse, also a […]

Pueblo Viejo & Conejo Creek get new water system
The Government of Belize is ensuring that the men, women and children of Pueblo Viejo and Conejo Creek in southern Belize have access to the supply of safe water to meet their daily needs such as cooking, drinking, bathing and washing. The new solar […]

$10,000 reward to capture Felix Ayuso’s killer
The person accused of murdering San Pedro resident Felix Ayuso, 28-year-old Vildo Westby is at large and police are hoping a reward will be enough to aid in leading to his arrest. There is a $10,000 reward being offered for the capture of Westby. Ayuso […]

Man fined over $10,000 for little more than a pound of weed
A man busted with more than a half kilo of weed has been given until next March to pay a fine of $10,200 or spend two years in jail. Yesterday Dwayne Hulse, 28, appeared before Senior Magistrate, Ann Marie Smith, and pleaded guilty. […]

Esperanza man missing
Yesterday, 46-year-old Elberta Velasquez of Esperanza village reported that on Sunday, July 9 at about 8:15 p.m. was the last time she saw her her 22-year-old son Anthony Moore when he went to bed. The next day on July 10, at about 6:00 a.m. […]

ComPol to testify before Senate
Today the Senate Select Committee continues its investigations into allegations of corruption at the Immigration Department. Superintendent of Police, Julio Valdez, and his boss Police Commissioner, Allen Whylie, are both scheduled to testify today. Valdez had discontinued an investigation into the department in 2014 […]

Still no signs of Mark Pollard
Mark Pollard has been missing for 17 days and there is still no sign of him. The Belize Police Department, Coast Guard and his family and friends continue to search for him. Yesterday, Southside Commander Sr. Supt. Marco Vidal in a press brief with […]

Mesoamerican Reef Leadership Program being hosted in Belize
The 2016 cohort of the Mesoamerican Reef Leadership Program is currently meeting in Belize City for their 4th workshop from the 15-23rd of July. The program has participation of 12 Fellows from Belize, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico who are learning about project design, how […]

ss

Belize’s Cultural Celebrations: Los Finados
Los Finados (also called Dia de los Muertos or Hanal Pixan) is the religious commemoration of the visit of the souls of the faithful departed to their homes. 1st November honors infants and young children and is referred to as Dia de los Angelitos. 2nd November is Dia de los Muertos and honors adults who have died. Each night, altars or tables are arranged with the deceased’s favorite foods, treats and beverages as the rising steam from the foods is believed to invoke their spirits.Families visit the graves of their deceases ones to say prayers and place flowers, wreathes, food and drinks. It concludes with the Catholic Church celebrating a special Mass and procession to the cemetery.

Following friends through rehab - Mitch returns for Innie's release
I’ll always remember the day I first met Innie, then a young Yucatan black howler monkeys at Wildtracks, and the moment he leapt onto my neck and purred in my ear. Looking back it was a pretty life-changing moment. It led to me returning to Wildtracks again and again and again. I’ve met so many truly incredible people, monkeys, and manatees during my summers here, but I’d be lying if I didn’t admit that Innie is a little extra special to me. When I first met him he was a tiny baby with a broken arm, the only monkey of his age group at Wildtracks. Affectionate, seemingly confident (as long as his carers were nearby to back him up), and prone to mood swings, he was a handful, but everyone adored him. Then along came Vicky, a pudgy gorilla-like baby with an attitude and confidence that put Innie’s to shame. Thus, a new troop was formed. Now “Innie and co.” consists of Innie, Vicky, Maggie, and Finn...and they are one of the troops moving to freedom in Fireburn this year.

What low season? Belize breaks records, Lobsterfest, & the newest pics around Placencia Village!
No surprise to read THIS article - Belize has broken its overnight tourism records - smashed them in fact! In April the overnight percentage went up 24% compared to last year!!!!! You can tell in the village, the energy and buzz is much higher than in past years during low season - mid July feels more like late November as far as the people. It is still NOT crowded - you can go into any restaurant and not have a wait, and you can have the beach to yourself most days, which is one of the draws of this village (paradise without overcrowding!). But, the amount of tourists in the village can be seen in far more filled up seats at the bars and restaurants. The village recently enjoyed Lobsterfest, so lobster is back on the menus, yay! Here is a montage of village images from the last couple weeks - even if you are enjoying your own summer across North America, the exotic and rustic look of this place can make you want to come back...

The 2017 San Pedro Lobsterfest Block Party
The island of San Pedro-Ambergris Caye celebrated its 11th Lobsterfest Block Party on June 24th, which saw restaurants from across the island gathered at the Central Park in uniquely decorated booths, to showcase and win the title of Best Lobster Dish and Drink. From early evening on to night time, the crowd of locals and international travelers grew ever larger as they made their way out to try the various lobster specials being offered. From whole grilled lobster to lobster dip and tacos and even lobster pizza, there were plenty of lobster dishes to try. The crowd was also treated to music by local DJ’s, local cultural presentations and even steel pan music by the Pannerfix Steel Band…keeping everyone shimmying and dancing all night long. At the end of the night when all the scores of the judge’s had been tallied, Finn & Martini along with El Jefe were awarded Best Lobster dish and Best Drink of the evening. Little did we know but there was also a Best Booth Category, which was won by Pineapples honors for their tropical setting.

The 9 Most Popular Foods in Belize
Many visitors arrive in Belize unsure about what to expect when it comes to food. But the delicious mix of different cultural influences means that Belize is home to a sumptuous medley of seafood, fresh fruit, Caribbean classics, and savory treats that are sure to please even the pickiest eater. When you are in Belize, here are the 9 foods you definitely need to try:

7 Powerful Reasons Why People Love to Travel To Belize
Just a short distance from the United States, Belize is rapidly becoming one of the hottest travel destinations in the region. Here are 7 powerful reasons why people love traveling to Belize: Although the country is small, vast swathes of the jungle are protected in national parks and animal sanctuary. Wildlife abounds in the jungles of Belize, including 500 species of birds, two species of monkeys, and large cat species like jaguars.

Belize Eco-Kids 2017 Summer Camp Takes Off!
Chaa Creek’s 2017 Belize Eco-Kids Summer Camp started with a storm, which, anywhere else, would have probably been a bad omen. But here, in the middle of the jungle surrounded by dark woods, flooded rivers and trees full of howler monkeys, we just took it in our stride, and as they came down the jungle trail, there were smiles all around that cut straight through the gloomy clouds. Literally. As they sat down around our famed camp fire, the clouds gave up and moved away, and we started with – of course – the ice-breaker, our nickname game, where we have the chance to give ourselves our own camp names before other, less charming ones are bestowed on us. There’s a catch – your nickname has to be a food, and it has to start with the first letter of your name.

BELIZE: 10 ASTOUNDING NATURAL ATTRACTIONS
Humans, as a race has always had a knack for building impressive edifices to house their most precious people, trinkets or beliefs in. It’s as though we have an obsession with constructing ever more impressive tributes to our intelligence, because, how else would it happen if not for our awesome brains? Still – nature always has a way of bringing all things full circle, as all things we know about making big buildings, came from observing the awe-inspiring structures that nature makes on its own. Belize has her share of those wonders so much so that even the ancient Maya revered some of them. Check out these 10 astounding natural attractions in Belize:

Belize: Central American High Mountain Coffee Culture Arrives!
The young country of Belize has slowly been coming into its own as we mature as a society and Micro-enterprises have been popping up in some of the far-flung, less trafficked areas of The Jewel. Slowly building a name around Chocolate, Belizean entrepreneurs have recently begun producing commercial grade organic coffee. Despite having retail variety ground coffee for quite a while, it’s just something that as a culture we haven’t embraced. Luckily for us, our neighbors in Guatemala have been in the business for quite a long time and a cool little company known as 12 Onzas recently came to our very own Guava Limb Cafe to impart some caffeinated wisdom and train our very own upcoming Belizean baristas.

Experience The Best of Hopkins Village
In recent years, as more travelers are venturing to Southern Belize, the small seaside Village of Hopkins has blossomed into an incredible destination. Hopkins is principally known for its vibrant Garifuna culture and heritage, however, it’s beautiful beaches and the numerous things to do such as fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and jungle tours provide something for travelers of all walks of life. Additionally, Hopkins’ location provides easy access to some of the best mainland expeditions in Belize, which I’m sure has played a crucial role in increasing its popularity. So if you plan to visit, I suggest you try the activities below to make your experience even better.

Corn, Coconut, Barbeque Fest in Corozal Town
We did not see a lot of corn, coconut or BBQ, but what we did see was a community getting together to organize a festival that will help enhance the Corozal Town Area. What we did was jump right in and participate in a couple of the fun events at the first ever Corn, Coconut and Barbecue Festival in the Corozal Town over the weekend. Although we would have wanted to see more corn/coconut produce, products and activities, we give the Corozal Town community and organizers a thumbs up for putting together such an event. Festivals are always fun and we find it necessary to give our support to all of them, regardless of its popularity or size. They had food, drinks, live entertainment, fun competitions, business displaying their products and services at Rainbow Park by the sea. There were a lot of competitions on their activities list that included Bachata Dance Competition, Limbo, Chicken Drop, Corn Eating Competition, Bartending Mix Drink Competition, Beer Drinking Competition, Barbecue Competition, Best Tamales, Coconut Husking Competition, Swimsuit Competition and a Gummy Bear Eating Competition for the children. That’s a lot of competitions. Jeje!!!

CC+L Explores MPR
The Caribbean Culture and Lifestyle team took a trip to Mountain Pine Ridge. They loved Big Rock Falls and Rio On Pools, and stayed at Hidden Valley Inn, where they captured a magical scene at Butterfly Falls. They made a short video of the 1000 Foot Falls with some of their drone footage.. "Of the 8,867 square miles that make up Belize, 28% of the country is environmentally protected. The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, located in the Cayo district, is the oldest and largest protected reserve in the country. Lush green pine and broadleaf forest, beautiful rivers and hidden waterfalls that speckle the area make for a nature lovers paradise. Abundant in wildlife, the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is home to wild cats and magnificent birds such as the Blue-Crowned Motmot, Keel- Billed Toucan, Common Crossbill, King Vulture and the Warbler. Whether it be trekking through the forest, bird watching, or having a romantic day at the waterfalls, the Mountain Pine Ridge offers an unparalleled experience."

International Sources

Ginger reflect on the ABCs of Belize
Last year we had the privilege of living in Belize for two months. Most Belizean grocery stores are owned by Chinese families or German Mennonites, so finding familiar ingredients can be a bit of a challenge. I can give you the names of three stores that sell pig snouts, and two that sell chicken feet by the pound, but only one that sells vanilla extract. Every shopping trip was a scavenger hunt, and since the milk and bread go bad so quickly, we shopped every day. My favorite store was owned by an elderly Chinese man whose name I couldn’t pronounce, so he told me to call him Jim. His store is the only one in town that has automatic doors. Not the kind we have here, with separate doors for entering and exiting, but two gigantic, solid glass, sliding doors that open and close like an elevator. In the U.S. if you shop in one hundred degree weather, upon entering any place of business you will feel a welcoming wave of coolness. Not so in Belize. The heat inside is sometimes worse, and definitely more stifling, than outside. Here at home you can locate items by simply glancing across the aisles and reading the signs. In Belize, everything is jumbled together in a way that never made sense to me. I would find myself sweating profusely, trudging up and down every dark aisle, over and over trying to find the simplest items. Speaking of sweat, I found it odd that deodorant is the only item consistently kept behind glass and the clerk must get it for you.

Garifuna Members Meet with Belize Delegates to Build Ties
The representatives met with leaders from the Fraternal Black Organization of Honduras, an organization representing 46 Garifuna communities. Six delegates from Belize returned home after a round of meetings earlier this month with the Garifuna communities in Honduras over land rights and the groups’ progress in land development. The representatives met with leaders from the Fraternal Black Organization of Honduras, an organization formed in 1978 that incorporates members from all 46 Garifuna communities along the Honduran Caribbean coastline.

Huawei, BTL complete new Belize undersea cable system
Submarine network provider Huawei Marine Networks said it and Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL) have completed their project to build an undersea cable system connecting Belize's mainland with its largest island, Ambergris Caye. Huawei said the 23 km cable terminating at the town of San Pedro was delivered on time and on budget and will allow DTL to provide 100 Mbps broadband across the entire island beginning in August. The project, announced in August 2016, is part of BTL's four-year, USD 100 million mobile and fixed broadband capital investment plan in partnership with Huawei.

Belize’s Smart Goes Live with FTS’ Convergent Billing Solution
Belizean operator Smart has implemented FTS’ real-time billing and charging solution to support its expansion into 4G/LTE. Supporting Smart’s LTE, 3G and 2G networks on a single platform, FTS’ Leap Billing solution includes convergent charging, billing, invoicing, customer management and partner management. In addition, FTS has provided Smart with a mobile solution, including prepaid IN gateway, voicemail and IVR systems. Ernesto Torres, Smart’s CEO, said: “FTS’ billing solution enables us to provide new services while achieving an enhanced customer experience.”

Accused 'El Chapo' Associate Fights Treasury Sanctions in DC
In a lawsuit filed Tuesday in D.C. federal court, a Belizean banana farmer challenged the U.S. Treasury Department's decision to sanction him over his alleged ties to Mexican drug lord Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán. John Zabaneh claims the Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control's decision to designate him as a narcotics trafficker in 2012 caused him, his family and businesses to "experience onerous obstacles in their day-to-day lives," including the "deterioration" of his farm. Zabaneh, represented by D.C. lawyer Erich Ferrari, said Treasury is unreasonably delaying his administrative appeal and provided limited information on why he received the designation. "Not only have the welfare of [Zabaneh] and his family been gravely prejudiced since his August 7, 2012 designation, but on a much broader scale, so has the welfare of the hundreds of persons in Belize who lost their jobs as a collateral consequence of the designation action, and who continue to be unemployed in a region where fruit farming is a major source of employment," the lawsuit said.

Conference on Security and Prosperity in Central America
“Gangs and organized crime have made the so-called Northern Triangle (El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala) one of the most dangerous regions in the world,” reads a quote from “¿Hogar dulce hogar? (Home Sweet Home?)”, a report published by Amnesty International in October 2016. The document addressed the role these countries have played in the current refugee crisis and stated that “soaring violence has caused rising numbers of people to run north to save their lives.” The problem, therefore, goes beyond borders and requires neighboring countries and other partner nations to mobilize in search of solutions. That is why government representatives from the United States and Mexico met with business and government leaders from Central America and other countries, mainly from the Western Hemisphere, at the “Conference on Prosperity and Security in Central America,” held June 15th-16th in Doral, Florida.

IU researcher awarded two grants for work in abating mosquito-borne illnesses
The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) recently awarded two multi-year grants to Molly Duman Scheel, associate professor of medical and molecular genetics at the Indiana University School of Medicine-South Bend, to assist her work in abating mosquito-borne illnesses in order to keep military personnel safe from viruses such as Zika and dengue fever. For the project, researchers will introduce speciality traps, called ovitraps, at a training facility in Belize that provide an adequate environment for mosquitoes to lay eggs in. Scheel’s larvicide will then be applied to naturally-developing pockets of water that develop within the traps.

INTERNATIONAL COSTA MAYA FESTIVAL 2017
We are just two weeks away from one of the most anticipated festivals on the island - The International Costa Maya Festival, which will be kicking off on August 3rd and ends on August 6th, 2017. This year marks the 25th year for the International Costa Maya Festival. In celebration of its silver anniversary, the Costa Maya Festival committee has a lot of surprises up their sleeves with one of the most exciting being the introduction of its new logo. Bold, bright and full of life, it is a true representation of the festival at hand. Held annually, the festival promotes the culture of the Munda Maya with their traditional dances, music, and food, while promoting tourism in San Pedro. It is not only one of the busiest weeks on the island but one of the most vibrant and liveliest times. San Pedro comes alive, as locals and tourist flock to the island by boat and by plane to participate in the different festivities and special offers, proposed by restaurants, bars, nightclubs and hotels around the island.

Videos

The Hummingbird Highway is being Upgraded, 2.5min. Last episode we highlighted the works being done on the Philip Goldson Highway in the Belize District. We take a look at the Hummingbird Highway Rehabilitation Project, which is also underway. Here’s more on what your Government is doing in efforts to secure safer roads for all Belizeans ...

Belize, Central America, 3min.

EPIC Snorkeling in Belize, 24min. INSANE day of snorkel in the Belize Barrier Reef! We stayed at the Jaguar reef lodge on Almond Beach in Hopkins, Belize!

BELIZE CITY Garifuna Settlement Day, 21min.

Belize 2017 - Fishin' With Finn, 10min. Adventures from a trip we took this summer! Belize is a great place, with great food and great people! Had a great time, I just wish I seen what broke my line lol

World Youth Conference 2017, 1.5min. Coming soon!! World Youth Conference, Nov. 6th to 9th, 2017, at the Ramada Hotel, Belize City.

Police Check Point Talk Show July 11, 60min.

EXPLORING XUNANTUNICH MAYAN SITE, 2min.

LET'S GO CAVE TUBING, 1min.

JUNGLE ZIP LINE BELIZE, 1min.

Frigate Birds are the most amazing creatures, 2min. This is the story of our experience with this downed baby. Belize Bird Rescue.

The Warriors FC players returned from the Rush Fest Soccer Camp held in Colorado Springs., 22min.

Child Development Foundation (CDF), 37min.

The Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association (BSCFA), 35min.

How trees talk to each other, 18min. Fantastic - Ted Talks . . . "A forest is much more than what you see," says ecologist Suzanne Simard. Her 30 years of research in Canadian forests have led to an astounding discovery -- trees talk, often and over vast distances. Learn more about the harmonious yet complicated social lives of trees and prepare to see the natural world with new eyes.

Senate Special Select Committee questions retired Superintendent of Police Julio Valdez, 75min. On his his investigation in the Immigration Department.

Drone footage of 1000 foot falls, 1/2min.

The Moorings - Belize!, 5min.

HEFY Belize 2016, 4min.

Belize Aggressor July 2017, 21min. Scuba Ventures dove with the Belize Aggressor III in July of 2017. A great trip filled with eagle rays, sharks, turtles, dolphins, manatees, eels and more. A great crew on the boat!

Belize vs Honduras (U20 Central American Female Volleyball Championship), 3hr. U20 Central American Female Volleyball Championship. SCA Multipurpose Center.

Kiteboarding in Belize, 1min.

Belize independence from september 21 2015, 7min.

HCC Hawk TV You Better Belize It, 15min.

July 19, 2017

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

The San Pedro Sun

Belmopan Bandits win Quadrangular Football Tournament
Belmopan Bandits were crowned champions of a Quadrangular Football Tournament held on San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye on Sunday, July 16th. The football marathon took place at the Ambergris Stadium, and saw the participation of three other major teams from the island including San Pedro Pirates FC, Los Catrachos FC and United FC. Shortly after 3PM, the marathon’s first game featured Los Catrachos FC and United FC. Catrachos dominated the game from the start, leaving United F.C with minimal options to score any goals. At the end of a 60-minute game, the final score was 3-0 in favour of Los Catrachos. With the win, Los Catrachos FC advanced to the championship round of the competition.

Taiwan grants Belizeans visa-free entry
On Wednesday, July 12th, Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) announced that nationals of its 11 diplomatic allies within the Caribbean and Latin American will no longer need visas to travel to the Republic of China (Taiwan). Belize, along with the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Saint Kitts, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent, the Grenadines, and Nevis are allowed a maximum visa-free stay of up to 30 days in Taiwan. On the other hand, nationals of Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador and Haiti as well as Paraguay are allowed to stay 90 days without a visa.

Over $25K raised for Hope Haven Children’s Home
The tragic death of 13-year-old Faye Lin Cannon has emphasized the urgency to complete the island’s first children’s home; Hope Haven. As such, island residents, along with members of the Non-Profit-Organization Raise Me Up held events on Friday, July 14th and Saturday, July 15th to gather much needed funds for the construction of Hope Haven. Currently under construction, the shelter is located on Lion Street, across from Maya Island Air. Once completed it, will assist victimized children and women on Ambergris Caye. The fundraising events were quite successful, having raised a total of $25,515 that will go towards the completion of the much needed shelter.

Coral Reef Ed-Ventures hold its 18th graduation
The annual Coral Reef Ed-Venture Summer Camp came to a close on Thursday, July 13th, with a special graduation ceremony, recognizing 47 children. The graduates were named Coral Reef Experts after attending the event from June 26th to July 13th. Coral Reef Ed- Ventures has been in existence over 18 years and is organized by students from Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts USA, with assistance from Hol Chan Marine Reserve on Ambergris Caye. The participants are separated in two groups. Juniors, aged 6-12, and advanced, aged 12-18. During the camp, children learned about ecologic conservation and the Belize Barrier Reef.

Action Twenty 24 holds interactive summer camp
Action Twenty 24 hosted its fifth annual, one-week summer camp from Monday, July 10th to Friday, July 14th. In collaboration with the Hell Fighters Organization, the camp hosted over 70 children ages 6-13 each day at New Horizon Seventh Day Adventist Primary School, and the Angel Nuñez Auditorium. This year, a total of 20 camp volunteers from the United States of America dedicated their time to run the program.

Ambergris Today

Community Reels In Funds For Island Children’s Home
After the tragic death of Faye Lin Cannon in the community of San Pedro, residents became more aware of the importance of the children’s home that is currently being constructed on Ambergris Caye. Over the weekend Raise Me Up held a couple fundraising efforts in order to successfully complete the Hope Haven Children’s Home. On Friday, July 14, a radiothon, dollar dive and food sale managed to raise a total of $19,000 with the assistance of the businesses and community support. The dollar drive continued on Saturday with food and pastry sales at the San Pedro Lions Den. At the end of the day an additional $6,515 was raised. With the help of volunteers who spend both days arduously encouraging the entire community to donate a grand total of $ 25,515 was raised towards the children’s home.

Belize Discusses Plans For New National Bus Terminal In Belize City
On July 12, 2017, Minister of Transport Hon Edmond Castro met with Belize Infrastructure Limited (BIL) General Manager Ms. Christy Mastry, and Mr. Marcel Ham of IMG Rebel, the Public Private Partnership consultant to the GOB, to discuss plans for a new National Bus Terminal in Belize City. The new National Bus Terminal, to be constructed as part of the Lake Independence Master Plan, now endorsed by Cabinet, will be one of the first projects to anchor the new development area. The project is now being envisioned as a public-private sector partnership with the potential for not only national and regional bus line servicing, but also expanded auxiliary commercial, retail and depot services, as well as connectivity to the local public transportation network.

Belize To Establishment National Standard Vehicle Registration & Drivers Licensing System
On Wednesday, July 12, 2017 in Belmopan City, Minister of Transport Hon Edmond Castro headed a team which met with consultants from Taiwan and Belize’s Central Information Technology Office (CITO) for discussions on the establishment of a new nationwide vehicle registration and driver’s licensing system utilizing one national database, with one standard license format and protocol. This is in accordance with a memorandum of understanding signed a month ago in which Taiwan committed assistance for the US $2.8 Million project through its International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF).

Misc Belizean Sources

USA requires additional security measures at airport
Air Travellers departing the Phillip S.W. International Airport en route to destinations in the United States of America are advised that effective Wednesday, July 19, 2017, in compliance with US security requirements, additional security measures will be implemented on outbound passengers flying from Belize to the U.S. Travellers are advised to check with their air carrier and be at the Airport at least 2 hours prior to departure to avoid delays or possible missed flights.

Splashers
Sign up for this weeks paint party at Crazy Canucks Beach Bar

Celebrate Sharks and Rays at the Belize Zoo!
Tuesday, July 25 at 10 AM - 3 PM. Join MArAlliance and the Belize Zoo for a celebration and fun educational event of sharks and rays, the jaguars and harpy eagles of the sea. With hands on science, activities, talks, videos and give-aways, we look forward to introducing you to the wonderful world of sharks.

Sympathy vs Empathy
Quite a number of care givers Are client sympathizers A detrimental mixture That makes them enablers Making it difficult to curbe behaviors Youth are dying for structure Yet adult care givers don’t have it together so they help create monsters

Belize Diabetes Association of New York Made Annual Foot Care Mission to Belize
The Belize Diabetes Association of New York (BDANY) made its annual Foot Care Mission to Belize from July 3rd to 9th, 2017. This year’s mission brought 14 volunteers of which seven were members of the BDANY and seven were medical personnel comprising of a surgeon and registered nurses, with emphasis in foot care, and a diabetic educator. The mission provided screening and treatment to over 300 people in Belize City and Dangriga and educated over 50 nurses and doctors. Dr. Steven Wells, Chief Executive Officer of the Diabetic Foot Center Group, was even able to save a young man from losing a limb.

Belizean Successfully Completes World Customs Organization Career Development Program
Japan Career Development Programme came to a close on Friday, July 14th, 2017 at the WCO Headquarters, where 10 Customs officials from around the globe graduated from the program. For the first time in history a Belizean Customs Officer, Ms. Therese Martinez, graduated from the 10-month program based in Brussels. Ms. Martinez dedicated her time at the WCO specializing in Facilitation as a Professional Associate under the Compliance and Facilitation Directorate. She participated in four WCO missions abroad which included trips to Pakistan, Nigeria, Guatemala, and the Netherlands. Ms. Martinez presented a final paper on the themes of trade facilitation and security to the Secretary General of the WCO Dr. Kunio Mikuriya.

Ms. Joyce Cano passes away
Mayor Daniel Guerrero, the San Pedro Town Council and Staff would like to extend its sincere condolences to the Henkis and Cano family on the passing of Ms. Joyce Cano. May her soul rest in peace.

Vacancy at BELTRAIDE – Business Advisor
Vacancy exists at Belize Trade and Investment Development Service for the post of Business Advisor. Kindly see the attached vacancy notice below and, if interested, apply no later than Friday, July 28th, 2017 at 5 p.m.

GOB's Controlled Fuel Pump Prices (Belize City)
Effective Date: Wednesday, 19th July 2017

Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System World Heritage Sites
This past Saturday, visitors got a chance to experience these spectacular sites, first-hand with BAS! The Blue Hole and Half Moon Caye Natural Monuments are a part of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System World Heritage Site. Both sites are co-managed by the Belize Audubon Society. It all started with the boobies! Located 55 miles east of Belize City, Half Moon Caye Natural Monument is infamously home to the Red-footed Booby Bird. Gazetted in 1928, HMCNM is not only Belize's oldest site for wildlife protection, but also the first designated protected area in Belize since 1982. A few miles away lies the Blue Hole Natural Monument, a fascinating geological formation adorned with coral and cave formations. The tranquil abyss measures 1,000 feet across and approximately 450 feet deep.

4th Annual COLORS BEACH FESTIVAL
Saturday July 29th At The Corozal Rainbow Beach!!! Gates Open At 3pm - 2am Musical Entertainment By: DJ Odyssey - DJ Jago - No Fear DJs - DJ Smallz - Aktion One Sound - Shuga Vybz Sound - DJ Gilla - Unruly Kings Sound - Dehydration Sound Live Performance By The One And Only "STiG Da Artist" Pre sold Tickets For $15 (Contact 621-1835) More At The Gate!

Job Vacancy: Caye Caulker Traffic Warden
Notice: application has been extended to July 21st 2017.

Centro Escolar Mexico Junior College - Coroza
• On July 25, 2017, students will be able to view reports online if they have clearance from finance. If not arrangements will need to be made with the Dean. • Registration for Semesters 1& 3 will be done online from August 7-9, 2017. Payment at Scotiabank Orange Walk or Corozal can be done from August 8-10, 2017. The bank will not accept payment before nor after the assigned dates.

Summer Program ended with a field trip to the Zoo and the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary!
A big thank you to Social Security Board for making the field trip a reality. To Saint Francis Xavier Credit Union, Thunderbolt, Atlantic Bank and The Belize Bank for making this year's summer program a big success!

Fill a Backpack 2017
The 2017 Fill a Backpack school supply drive has started. If you can donate any school supplies towards the effort, contact the Rotaract Club of Benque at 634-8872.! "Do you want to help kids to get their school supplies and get ready for this upcoming school year? Then contact us and find out on ways you can help!"

New CAYO Mural
Cayo has another great, new mural now! 7 Galen University, Belize students painted it over the last week. It's on West street, on the wall behind the BTL building. It definitely makes some statements: Community is important. Education is the key. Protect the reef from drilling. and... Together we Stand, Divided we Fall. Galen has some great pictures from the christening. "The grand unveiling! Excellent Job to our students from our ART-480: Mural Art class! We're so proud of you! Special thanks to course instructor Fernando Cruz for enlightening our Eagles, bringing them to appreciate the wonders of art and especially inspiring them to bring their ideas to life! Hats off to you!"

TEDxBelmopan 2017 Announcement
The TEDXBelmopan crew have announced the date for the 2017 talk: Saturday, September 30th. http://tedxbelmopan.com/

Belmopan Saturday Market Opening
The Belmopan Saturday market will be moving to the National Agriculture and Trade Fairgrounds starting on Saturday, July 29th. Contact the Department of Agriculture for more information. "Reserve your space or mark in your calendar! We look forward to seeing you there!"

Camp Basil Jones
Green Reef in collaboration with the San Pedro House of Culture (NICH), Hol Chan Marine Reserve, and the Department of Youth Services for the fourth consecutive year will undertake a four week summer camp at Camp Basil Jones on North Ambergris Caye adjacent to the Bacalar Chico Marine Reserve. The summer youth camp programme aims to promote conservation and preservation of the Belize Barrier Reef as we work towards youth empowerment in Belize. The Summer Camp gives young people in rural communities and inner city youths an opportunity to experience and learn about Belize’s natural resource.

Movie Night for Hope: Wonder Woman
ALL OF THE PROCEEDS WILL BE DONATED TOWARDS THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE HOPE HAVEN CHILDREN'S SHELTER.. Please come out and support a good cause! Help us spread the word by sharing this event and tagging people who may be interested! Thursday, July 20 at 7 PM, Paradise Theatre in San Pedro. We have heard amazing things about the new movie Wonder Woman, and following the theme of women in power, Paradise Theater has graciously proposed that we have a special movie night to benefit Hope Haven! Thursday, July 20, we invite you to a viewing party of "Wonder Woman". Normally $10 per adult ticket and $8 for children's tickets, this will be a donation-based price. Whatever you can afford to donate (whether it's a dollar or whether it's a hundred; up to you), Paradise Theater will be donating ALL (yes, 100%!) ticket sales to the Hope Haven project. This is the perfect opportunity to invite friends and family in our community who may normally not be able to attend the theater, so please do so!

This Day in History
July 18th, 1828, His Majesty's sloop "Kangaroo", Anthony de Mayne, Esq. Commander, with the Cutter " Chatham", arrived in the Harbour of Belize for the express purpose of surveying the Coast and adjacent Keys, occupied by the British, by orders of Government.

Belizean Patriot: Cleopatra White
Cleopatra Eugenie White was born on 28th June 1898 in British Honduras to Joseph and Maria White. She was a social worker and community leader. She was the second matron of the Black Cross Nurses Association (The first was Nurse Seay) She was one of the first formally trained nurses in Belize and was the first rural health practitioner in Gales Point and the Manatee River area of Belize. She also organized the first village council in the country, in Gales Point, recognizing the need for managing village affairs, especially in the case of hurricanes. Her model was replicated throughout Belize, and she is credited with the idea for the present village council system. She served in the relief efforts of the 1931 hurricane, Hurricane Janet (1955) and Hurricane Hattie (1961). She received a Victoria Medal in 1953 for her services from the British crown and in 1958, went to England to accept the medal of Member of the Order of the British Empire.

Belizean Patriot: Leigh Richardson
Leigh Richardson (26 April 1924 – 27 October 2008) was a Honduran-born Belizean politician. He moved with his parents to Belize at the age of five. Richardson served as the leader of the People's United Party in the 1950s, and also as mayor of Belize City. A leader in Belize's independence movement, he was imprisoned in 1951 along with Philip Goldson for charges of sedition brought against them by the British colonial authorities. Richardson was a founding member of the People's United Party and was elected as its second leader. He led the PUP to its first major political victory in 1954. After George Cadle Price's successful takeover of the PUP in 1956, along with Goldson and others Richardson broke with the party and formed the Honduran Independence Party, which later merged with the National Party to create the National Independence Party (NIP).

Old Carriage House
Another building on the Government House Property that will get a facelift and renewed life will be the old Carriage House. The Carriage House is as old as the Government House and it was a building where the Governors kept their mode of transportation from a horse and cairiage to an Austin Princess. The upper floor was used as a maid's quarters. It is proposed that this building will be converted into a Cafe / Small Resturant. Directly next to the Cafe, in front of the Governor's House along Regents Street, will be a small sitting area that will be referred to as a pocket park. In this area, visitors will be able to take a short rest while enjoying a cold beverage as they absorb the ambience of this historic area.

Ancient World Week
Today's discussions are on the Santa Rita Murals with Mr. Graham Sampson and the relationships between Santa Rita, Cerro Maya and Aventura by Dr. Cynthia Robin of Northwestern University.

Caribbean Kings Will be playing at the Costa Maya Festival after party! On Thursday, August 3rd! Sting Da Artist will be playing on Saturday August 5th.

Channel 7

Friend Stabs and Kills Friend Over Petty Dispute
A city man was stabbed to death by his friend in his apartment. Last night after 6:00, 31 year old Phillip Samuels was hanging out with a group of friends at the Southside Villas Apartment building on Boots Crescent. Things took a turn for the worst when Samuels' friend Cecil Gill assaulted a woman. Samuels stepped in and Gill stabbed him to the chest. Courtney Weatherburne has more on the thread of misunderstandings that led to murder. Voice of: Resident: "He was a nice person, once he sees you on the street he will greet you, smile at you, hang out, take his little drink to time, greet the baby around the lane, I didn't know him as anyone who troubled nobody."

Police Closing in on Killer in Lemoth Case
Police say they will close Hammon Lemoth's murder case soon. Lemoth died last Thursday, 7 weeks after he was shot to the head at the One Love Barber Shop. Lemoth was trimming a client when a gunman barged in and opened fire. He was hit to the head by one of nine bullets. Today Senior Superintendent Mark Vidal gave us a brief update on this case. Sr. Supt. Mark Vidal, OC, Southside Commander: "So now there is a murder investigation. We are seeking suspects in that matter as well. The investigation is ongoing and we pretty much have an idea as to who the person is. So it's just a matter of putting that together then we shall be making an arrest very shortly."

How Belize Got Back Into CODICADER's Good Graces
As we told you last night, a sporting disaster has been averted and Belize's student athletes are going to the CODICADER games. As we had been reporting, CODICADER's organizers threatened Belize with a two year suspension after the Ministry of Sports said that it could not afford to host the Disability games in October of this year. But, after a letter of appeal from the CEO in the Ministry of Sports, the President of CODICADER Gerardo A. Fajardo relented from his hardline and agreed to let Belize's athletes participate. Today the Director of Sports told us how Belize was able to turn things around:... Ian Jones - Director of Sports: "There is a difference between Belize is suspended and Belize may be suspended, all that is water under the bridge. Now we can say officially we are not suspended. I gave you a copy of the letter so you know it's not just us saying it but its CODICADER who is saying it, that we are not suspended and will be participating in the U15 games in August."

COLA Resurrects An Old Issue to Challenge Medical University
It's been about 4 years since the medical school, the American Global University School of Medicine, has been out of the news. Back in 2013, they were mauled in the local press by Phillip "Fawda" Henry, who accused them of running a fake school. But, we are aware that this medical university has been taking heat since at least 2009. Some observers suggest that this is a smear campaign by another competing medical school, but critics say don't watch them, watch the fact that no actual education is taking place at the school's addresses. This time it was COLA's Geovannie Brackett and his fellow grassroots activist Raymond Rivers who was on the full-court press against the University, which has changed its name to the Columbus Central University School of Medicine. Daniel Ortiz has that story:

Missing Man Mark Pollard, Police Only Found A Bloodied Stick
There is still no sign of city resident Mark Pollard. He has now been missing for 16 days. The family, the police and the Coast guard have already done extensive searches for Pollard but they all yielded nothing, except for a blood-stained piece of stick. Police told us more about that find. Sr. Supt. Mark Vidal, OC, Southside Commander: "Searches have been done from the point where he had been last seen and it has extended all the way up to Hattieville and it has extended on the other end all the way up to Haulover Bridge. This operation has been done jointly with the Coast Guard and family members of the victim. It has not given us anything as yet, but I will say that there are a number of information that is coming to us and we are pursuing every single information that is coming to us. So we have not still not left that to rest. We will continue to carry out what is required of us to investigate that matter further."

Dwayne's Drug Traffic Dollars
28 year-old Dwayne Hulse is at home tonight trying to come up with the funds to pay a ten-thousand dollar court fine. Police busted him with over half a kilo of marijuana, and after pleading not guilty, he returned to court to accept responsibility for the drugs. According to police they busted him early on January 11 at his home at mile 2 and a half on the Phillip Goldson highway. Police say that they conducted a search of his premises and spotted him when he tried to throw away a small quantity of the drug. They retrieved it, and then they searched the house. That led to the discovery of a black plastic bag, which contained 539 grams - a little over a pound of weed, under his bed.

Keith To Court, And Then Jail For Screwdriver Attack
30 year-old Keith Middleton, a construction worker from Belize City, is on remand at the Belize Central Prison tonight. That's after he was taken before the Chief Magistrate yesterday for allegedly stabbing his ex-common-law wife in the eye with a screw driver. According to police, the incident happened on Sunday, when Muteeshe Smith, was walking on a street in the City. She told police that she met Middleton, and they had a confrontation. That's when, according to her, Middleton pulled out the screw driver and stabbed her in the eye, the forehead, and the abdomen. He was arrested and charged with wounding and aggravated assault, and he was arraigned before the Chief Magistrate today.

Another Fatal Motorbike Accident
Last night we told you about the 18 year old US National who was killed in a motorbike accident on the Southern Highway. Well there was another fatal collision last night - also involving a motorbike - on that same highway. Around 7:00, 48 year old taxi driver, Ernesto Cadle was driving his Isuzu Rodeo from Cowpen junction to Independence when he knocked 62 year Benedicto Mendez off his motorcycle between miles 36 and 37. Mendez died on the spot.

Monkey River, A Slight Return
Eight days ago, we told you that our Courtney Weatherburne had won the top prize for a journalism course on environmental reporting. Her story was about Monkey River - which has experienced massive coastal corrosion - enough to make residents really question whether the place they call home will survive the vagaries of climate change. Tonight, in honor of that first place, we are repeating her story called "Environmental Catastrophe, Social Calamity: Monkey River and the Swallowing Sea": Claude Morey, Monkey River Resident: "If things get worse that I can't handle or that I can't live then I got to move. That's for sure." Courtney Weatherburne reporting: That's the last thing Morey wants to do. He has been living in Monkey River for over 10 years. But his home is slowly collapsing as the harsh waves pound against the stilts.

Travellers, Expect Security Delays
Travelers beware! The Department of Civil Aviation says that starting tomorrow there will be increased security checks at the Phillip Golden International. A statement from that agency warns passengers, quote, "effective Wednesday, July 19, 2017, in compliance with US security requirements, additional security measures will be implemented on outbound passengers flying from Belize to the U.S. Travellers are advised to check with their air carrier and be at the Airport at least 2 hours prior to departure to avoid delays or possible missed flights." End quote. As far as we understand it, the additional screening will be mostly on electronic items like laptops or other portable electronics stored in carry on bags. The airport isn't expecting major delays, but processing through the boarding gates may take a little longer than usual.

Belize Bank Gives Scholarships
Today the Belize Bank held its 6th Annual Scholarship Award Ceremony. 16 students from around the country received full funding for their high school and sixth form education. The students with the best grades and greatest need were chosen out of over 200 applicants. We went to the ceremony where representatives from the Bank, the Ministry and one of the scholarship recipients told us more. Along with having their tuition fully covered, the scholarship recipients also received school supplies and access to tutoring and mentorship.

Onward Christian Soca Soldiers
The Belize Festival of Hope is coming to town with as much hype as Jesus had when he descended into Jerusalem. It's a religious event - but that doesn't mean it's austere and reserved. Today the Church paraded through town with religious soca music booming on the speakers. All english speaking churches in the Belize District were invited - especially young people. It's preparation for the event, which starts properly on Thursday with a kids festival and a youth festival, culminating over the weekend with the Festival of Hope.

Channel 5

Philip Samuels’ intervention in domestic dispute cost him his life
Early on Monday night, thirty-one-year-old Phillip Michael Samuels was stabbed and killed. Samuels was hanging out with a group of friends at an apartment on Boots Crescent, Belize City when [...]

Police take up death of Hammond Lemoth as murder investigation
While police continue to look for a Belize City resident in connection with the recent murder of Phillip Samuels, Regional Commander for the Eastern Division South jurisdiction, Superintendent Marco Vidal [...]

Will leads help Police and family find missing Mark Pollard?
Superintendent Vidal also addressed the puzzling disappearance of forty-nine-year-old Mark Pollard who vanished approximately two weeks ago without a trace. The well-known man left his house on Peter Seco Street, [...]

David and Anke Doehm to seek bail on child cruelty charge this Friday
The bail application for David and Anke Doehm, the American couple charged with cruelty to late thirteen-year-old daughter Faye Lin Cannon, will be heard at the Supreme Court on Friday. [...]

Commissioner Whylie, retired Supt. Julio Valdez are before Senate on Wednesday
News Five has confirmed that the Senate Special Select Committee is taking a different tack for its hearing on Wednesday at the National Assembly in Belmopan. For the last two [...]

Belize braces for CODICADER suspension
A team of young athletes is destined for Honduras in the weeks ahead to represent the Jewel in the Under-fifteen CODICADER games. Their attendance however, does not exempt Belize from [...]

Gov’t says no money to host CODICADER disability games
In 2016, under the direction of Minister of State Elodio Aragon Junior, whose responsibility at the time included sports and culture, the National Sports Council spent in excess of four [...]

The next step begins for sixteen Belize Bank scholarship recipients
The Belize Bank is sending sixteen more students to school this year. Through its scholarship program, both high school and sixth form recipients will not have to worry about the [...]

U.S. security requirements mean long lines at Airport
Going to the States anytime soon? It’s the season for Belizeans to travel to the United States of America on vacation and getaways. But you’ll want to be at the [...]

Ten thousand dollars to find Felix Ayuso’s killer
There’s a ten thousand dollar bounty on Vildo Westby’s head. He’s the man wanted for the murder of Felix Ayuso Junior that happened on San Pedro in February of this [...]

New boss, same hard-working G.S.U. – multiple drug busts
It may have flown quietly below the radar at the beginning of the month when officers within the Belize Police Department were being transferred to various positions, but the Gang [...]

Jail, no bail for ex accused of assaulting former partner
Belize City resident, Keith Middleton, the ex- boyfriend of a woman attacked with a screw driver, is spending his first night on lock down at the Belize Central Prison after [...]

C.O.L.A. doesn’t believe new Columbus U. has changed its tune
Remember American Global University School of Medicine? Four years ago it was fighting to clear its name from allegations that its educational activity was fraudulent and its degrees not worth [...]

I.D.B. talks business development with Chamber of Commerce
The Inter-American Development Bank, the primary source of multilateral financing in Latin America, is partnering with the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry to provide solutions to development challenges within [...]

Will Bank lend directly to businesses?
The IDB is also making loan facilities available to local businesses, presumably at favorable and equally competitive terms as other lending institutions. While the proposal is fresh on the table, [...]

Rachel Heusner paints Caribbean flavours
Belizean artist Rachel Heusner who lives in Tobago is hosting a two week exhibition inside Sarina’s Café on the ground floor at the Bliss. Heusner has been painting for over [...]

Dion Leslie defends CitCo against internal issues
At this point in time, Belize City Mayor Darrell Bradley is on the outside looking in at City Hall. He has not put his name down to run for a [...]

Nine to sing Jewel’s best at KTV The Remix
Belizean artists and their music will be at the heart of tonight’s karaoke at the Bliss Institute where another round of competition will take place in this summer hottest television [...]

CTV3

There is Still Room for Improvement In The Industry, Says CEO In MOA
The 2016-2017 sugar crop which closed at the ending of June has had mixed results and reviews. Yes sugar production increased but the amount of cane milled was below the estimated target. Yes more cane farmers were exposed to mechanized harvesting, but few can actually afford it. The industry, now at a crossroads with the end of preferential access to the EU market and global market conditions shifting daily, is being closely examined by all stakeholders. Today the CEO in the Ministry of Agriculture Jose Alpuche attended a sugar industry stakeholders meeting and gave us his review of the past crop season.

BSCFA and BSI/ASR Must Seek Way Forward Says CEO Alpuche
Since we were on the topic of direct consumption sugar exports, we also asked the CEO to comment on the current stalemate between the Belize Sugar Industries/ASR and the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association over the contents of a new agreement between the mill and the farmers. As we reported in a previous newscast, BSI/ASR officials have urged the cane farmers through their associations to sign off on revised terms for a working agreement. But certain aspects of the agreement under the proposed terms are not acceptable to the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association and they have made that position known. The last thing the Government would want to see is a repeat of the 2010 ordeal where a deadlock nearly led to industrial action, so today we heard from the Ministry’s CEO what they propose as the way forward.

Belizean Moto Taxi In The Zone Says Mexican Taxis Are Hurting Their Business
In yesterday’s newscast we told you about the police’s discovery of 1,578 grams of cannabis inside a Chetumal taxi car that was stopped and searched inside the Santa Elena border area over the weekend. Mexican driver 55 year old Jorge Anzures Alfaro and Belizean 22 year old Jermaine Sanker were arrested and charged. The presence of Chetumal taxis within the border area is a major point of contention for at least one group that operates in the area – the Belizean motorcycle taxi drivers who transport tourists as well as Belizeans within the area. The taxi drivers are today up in arms that a lack of regulation is allowing Mexican taxi drivers to cherry pick passengers and basically steal earnings away from them. On Saturday we heard from one of the taxi drivers who discussed the issues that are affecting them.

CEO Explains Why Belizeans Must Be Sprayed At Northern Border BAHA Quarantine Facility
In December, the Government of Belize through BAHA and in partnership with OIRSA unveiled a brand new spraying facility at the Northern Border for the purpose of sanitizing foreign vehicles entering Belize. But shortly after opening, the authorities began spraying and charging Belizeans and that created some confusion and frustration. Yesterday we sought some clarification and according to CEO Jose Alpuche there is good reason behind the decision.

Traffic Accident Claims One Life On The San Victor/San Narciso Road
A man lost his life in a traffic collision that occurred on the San Victor Village road on Saturday night. The victim was a passenger in a blue and silver two-door Mazda pickup that was heading towards San Narciso Village but which ran off the road and collided into a white Ford Ranger pickup truck that was parked on the road side. Today the new Officer in Charge in Corozal, Superintendent Sinquest Martinez, explained what the Police authorities’ early investigations are indicating.

Children Attending Summer Program Learn About Healthy Eating
This afternoon about 25 children attending the annual Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints summer programme got a special visit from Mr. Belize Rigo Vellos, who stopped in to talk to them about healthy eating and healthy living. The children are attending the 4-day summer activity which is organised by the teachers of the school every year. This year their theme is “Be Calm and Choose the Right”. One of the organisers, Esmir Castaneda, told us more about the initiative.

LOVE FM

Youth leaders from across the world to meet in Belize
Belize will host the World Youth Conference in November of this year. The initiative is being spearheaded by the Department of Youth Services. It is expected that hundreds of young persons from around the globe will convene in Belize City for the event being held under the theme , “Globally running to 2030, becoming sustainably […]

The Festival of Hope is here
The much anticipated Festival of Hope kicks off today in Belize City. A number of churches have come together for the event. Love News spoke with Pastor Jack Myers who said Belize is the third country to which they have brought the event. Pastor Jack Myers “In 2013, a group of Evangelists, about 18, decided […]

Belize’s under 20 volleyball team ready for regional competition
This week Belize will be hosting the U20 Central American Female Volleyball Championship. Each county is sending their best under twenty female volleyball athlete to go against one another at Saint Catherine’s Academy auditorium. Belize has been participating in the tournament but has never medalled. This year, with the professional help from Head coach, Delio […]

President of BVA says participating in CODICADER is important for young athletes
It is expected that Belize will be sanctioned for not hosting the CODICADER special games. The Minister of Sports Patrick Faber had explained that the government does not have the finances to host the games. But officials from the regional sporting body are not being lenient and so it is expected that Belize will be […]

Construction worker charged for murder
Twenty-three year old Juan Choc, a construction worker of Baymen Avenue, was charged with the murder of Bangladesh national Abdush Salam. Choc was remanded into custody until September 19. The incident occurred on July 1. Salam was found dead in his home on Orange Street. He was lying nude on his bed with his face […]

Bomba villager charged with sexual assault of minor
Forty year old Jorge Carraras, a farmer of Bomba Village who allegedly committed sexual assault twice on an 11 year old girl, was charged with two counts of sexual assault when he appeared today before Senior Magistrate Sharon Fraser. Carraras pled not guilty to the charges. He was denied bail and he was remanded into […]

Moises Flores charged for sexually assaulting young girl
Thirty-nine year old Moises Flores, a resident of Holy Emmanuel Street, who allegedly committed a sexual assault on a girl, 8 years and 5 months old, was charged with assault on a child by penetration when he appeared today before Senior Magistrate Sharon Fraser. No plea was taken because the offence is indictable. Flores was […]

New trial ordered for trio charged with murder
Back in October of 2015, Tyrone Meighan, Orel Leslie and Brandon Baptist were all freed from the murder charge levied against them. The trio was charged for the murder of 28 year old James Noralez. They were acquitted by Justice John Troadio Gonzalez but that decision was reversed by the Court of Appeal. The trio’s […]

New ambulance for Southern Regional Hospital
Harry Arzu reporting… “The Rotary Club of Edmonton Riverview Canada through Rotarian like Dr. Roman Barok and Sandra McDonald in partnership with the Rotary Club of Dangriga donated an ambulance to the Southern Regional Hospital earlier today during a short ceremony at the hospital. Love News was at the event and spoke with Diane Williams […]

Supaul Street fire leaves family displaced
A fire on Supaul Street in Belize City displaced about ten people. It happened on Sunday just before three o’clock in the afternoon. One of the affected persons is Shern Williams. Shern Williams – Fire victim “Well I was sleeping and in my sleep I smelled a little smoke so I told me man and […]

Amandala

Keith Yearwood alleges GSU brutality
Keith Francis Yearwood, a younger brother of Inspector of Police Fitzroy Yearwood, a Police Press Officer for Eastern Division North, told Amandala this evening that he suffered an unprovoked beating by four police Gang Suppression Unit (GSU) officers last Thursday night, July 13. The self-employed taxi operator was in his car with his teenaged daughter when he allegedly was pulled out of his car by his dreadlocks. The vicious officers even ordered his daughter to come out of his car at gunpoint, despite his protest to them that she is a minor, according to Yearwood.

Juan Choc, 23, remanded for murder of Bangladeshi businessman
A construction worker was arraigned and remanded to the Belize Central Prison this morning on a charge of murder in connection with the death by strangulation of a Bangladeshi businessman who was found naked and tied up in his bed on Saturday, July 1. Juan Roberto Choc, 23, a construction worker of Baymen Avenue, appeared before Senior Magistrate Sharon Fraser, who arraigned him on a charge of murder. Magistrate Fraser explained to Choc that for a charge of murder, he would not be able to get bail, but periodically he would be brought to court, and at those times, if he encounters problems while in prison, he could use the opportunity to convey his concerns to the court.

New trial for Orel Leslie, Tyrone Meighan and Brandon Baptist
The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), Belize’s highest court, held a hearing by teleconference this morning between its headquarters in Port of Spain, Trinidad, and the Belize City Supreme Court, where attorneys Anthony Sylvestre and Bryan Neal made submissions in support of an application for leave to appeal a Belize Court of Appeal decision which had ordered a new trial for Orel Leslie, 28, Tyrone Meighan, 23, and Brandon Baptist, 28, who were acquitted of the November 2012 murder of ex-Belize Defence Force soldier James Norales. The Crown was represented by Director of Public Prosecutions, Cheryl-Lynn Vidal, S.C. and Senior Crown Counsel Sheiniza Smith.

Three killed in separate traffic collisions; several people injured
Three people are dead and several others are injured after they were involved in five separate road traffic collisions on the highways over the weekend. Dead are Gilbert Romero, Jr., 30, of Independence; American student Devin Michael Merrill, 18, and Carlos Carias of San Victor, Corozal District. The first death occurred at about 1:30 Friday morning, between Mile 37 and 38 on the Southern Highway. Gilbert Romero was driving his pickup from Independence to Dangriga when he lost control of the vehicle, veered off the road and crashed. He suffered massive head and body injuries and died almost immediately.

Mexican officials not barring Belize buses into Mexico
Belize bus companies traveling to Chetumal, Mexico, will no longer be traveling into that city, but will travel only to the northern border where the passengers will disembark, and they will have to make their own travel arrangements to and from Chetumal. According to the bus companies, the changes were as a result of a meeting held with the local Chetumal officials, and the announcement was made on Saturday. According to the announcement, the buses will travel up to the Casino near the border, where the passengers will disembark, and they will access the Mexican border, across the old Belize Mexico Bridge to Sub Teniente Lopez, the old crossing, and will return by that route.

Kulture takes lead at Week 7 of National Over-40
With a back match still in hand, Kulture Yabra Veterans took over the lead in the standings after Week 7 games this past weekend in the National Over-40 Tournament 2017. We’ll have the scoring details in our weekend issue, but the official results were: Mango Creek Veterans, 3-2, over Benque Veterans; Belmopan Veterans, 4-2, over Pickstock Lake-I Veterans; San Pedro Veterans over BDF Veterans, 4-0; and Kulture Yabra Veterans, 3-2, over San Ignacio Quintas.

Belize to participate in Bahamas 2017 Commonwealth Youth Games
With just a few days to go for the opening of the Bahamas 2017 Commonwealth Youth Games, Belize’s athletes are ready to represent in Athletics, Cycling and Tennis. The delegation consists of: The Commonwealth Youth Games is set to take place in The Bahamas from July 18th (Opening Ceremony) – 23rd, where 70 nations will be competing in nine (9) different sporting disciplines. With over 1,000 athletes participating, the Bahamas 2017 CYG will be the largest international sporting event ever to be hosted by this small Caribbean island.

OWFA Amateur Opening Season Week 3 Results
The Orange Walk Football Association (OWFA) Amateur Opening Season Week 3 games were played yesterday, Sunday, at People’s Stadium. In game 1, Desert Storm, Jr. dropped Crystal FC, 3-0, with goals from Kelvy Cordova (3’), Arnold Enriquez (11’) and Darian Coh (48’). In game 2, it was Trinidad FC, 3-2, over Progresso FC with goals from Travion Martinez (21’ & 28’) and Rubini Carillo (87’); while Gabriel Perez (83’ & 90’) got both goals for Progresso.

Belizean youth footballers, Warriors FC (Rush Belize) return triumphant from Colorado!
Returning to Belize on Southwest Airlines yesterday afternoon from Colorado, USA, was a triumphant group of young Belizean U-13 footballers and their coaches, after having made a splendid showing over the past week at the Rush Fest international youth soccer camp in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Although Rush Belize Country Director, Daniel Fabro, maintained that “the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie among the teams from a variety of backgrounds” was equally important as the competition results, the delegation is justly proud, and so are local fans and family members, of their outstanding accomplishments, winning 3 of 4 games played by big margins. Belize Rush, as the team was called at the Rush Soccer Camp tournament, won its first game, 8-0, against Michigan Rush on Monday; then 9-2 against Iowa/Kansas Rush on Tuesday.

Editorial: The reef, the oil, and the politics
We saw a story in The Times of London from Thursday, July 13, 2017, which intrigued us. Premier Oil and its partners had told The Times of a “world class” discovery of up to two billion barrels of oil off the coast of Mexico. “The Zama well is the first to be drilled offshore by the private sector after Mexico ended eight decades of state control of the oil industry.” The discovery is in water 546 feet deep 37 miles offshore in the Gulf of Mexico. The Zama well is north of the Villahermosa/Coatzacoalcos region which is considered a Mexican oil belt a few hundred miles directly east of Belize.

From The Publisher
July 21/22, 2017 will mark the 98th anniversary of the Ex-Servicemen’s Riot of 1919 in Belize Town, as Belize City was known back then. Over all the years since we discovered the late British historian Peter Ashdown’s chronicle of the two days and nights in the summer of 1919 when black soldiers, just returned from the Mesopotamia World War I theater, absolutely took over the capital of British Honduras, no other media house in Belize ever discusses the uprising. (I believe Ashdown’s account of the incidents was published in an academic journal here in the early 1980s.) I understand why the education system during colonial times tried to obliterate the July 1919 events from the historical memory of native people. The British colonial authorities were embarrassed and humiliated by the Ex-Servicemen’s Riot. In January of 1964, Belize achieved self-government, and the ruling People’s United Party (PUP) moved swiftly to change the summer school holidays from April and May to July and August. The change was implemented in the summer of 1964, so as to have Belize’s school holidays become simultaneous with the summer holidays in the school system of the United States.

Amandala on point …
Dear Editor, Excellent article! You are so on point when you say that “Belize has a Black Government which holds African history in contempt..” Thanks for keeping this conversation about Black history going in the Amandala. When I discuss slavery and inequities in the world and in Belize, my people …Black Belizeans …look at me like I’m crazy! I’ll keep reading!!

Belizean Diaspora – No Representation without Taxation!
Elements within the Belizean diaspora have been agitating lately for political representation in Belize. Perhaps many of them are familiar with that old refrain, “No Taxation without Representation”. The phrase is said to have originated prior to United States independence, when American colonists agitated for representation in the British Parliament. The Colonists held the view that if they were to be taxed (or continued to be taxed), then they should have actual representation, i.e. direct involvement in decisions about how their tax dollars were being raised and spent. The idea of taxation working in tandem with political representation is therefore not new; it has always constituted the basis for a model of fairness. Absent either—and the prospects for fair implementation of the other becomes difficult at best.

Thoughts for Ms. Lisa Shoman …
I see posts from Ms. Lisa Shoman on Facebook from time to time, when some mutual friend shares them. Some time ago she put up a story that deserved being sent back for more baking. Really, I hoped that someone else would put her right. Well, thank you for your help! It’s been some months now, and then along comes Sammy Sosa. My gudnis, Sammy Sosa is now WHITE? Sammy is from the Dominican Republic. I’ve read enough about racism in that country, how they treat Haitians and other people who are black. That is one of the reasons why the mighty Fidel Castro was setting up an army to invade them. Of course Sammy could have changed his color for reasons unrelated to lack of self-love. But in this skin whitening he is not alone.

Belize delegation reports back from Honduras’ OFRANEH Garifuna Territorial Defense (Part 1)
Six delegates from Belize visited Garifuna communities on the frontlines of Black and Indigenous territorial defense along the Caribbean coast of Honduras from the 24th of June to the 6th of July 2017. Delegates gathered with the Fraternal Black Organization of Honduras (OFRANEH), founded in 1978, an organization encompassing 46 Garifuna communities along the Honduran Caribbean coastline. OFRANEH’s members and leadership gave presentations, held discussions about their organizational work and invited delegates to work the land. Honduras: The Fight for Reparations, was facilitated by Witness for Peace, a longtime Caribbean and Latin American solidarity organization. Ofraneh organized the delegation throughout their communities as they seek to share accounts of their victories in defense of Garifuna territories, their challenges and strategies to support the struggle for land and justice.

He had his friend’s gun, and they were both remanded to jail
Two more persons have run afoul of the severe gun laws of Belize. The men — two farmers of Cotton Tree: David Estrada, 50, and his friend Manuel De Jesus Gonzalez, 55 — have been remanded to the Belize Central Prison until Monday, August 21. David Estrada was charged with lending a firearm/ammunition without the permission of the Commissioner of Police, and Gonzalez was charged with keeping a firearm/ammunition without a license. Police said that while conducting a patrol on the George Price Highway in Cotton Tree, Cayo District, at about 8:30 last night, they found Gonzalez with a shotgun for which he could not produce a license. He told police that the gun was the property of his friend, David Estrada, who was in the bushes.

Teresa Coy, 19 months, drowns in well in her yard
A 6-foot deep hole in the yard of the Coy family in Maya Mopan, Belmopan, over which an outdoor toilet was to be built, claimed the life of a 19-month-old infant, Teresa Coy, after she fell into it and drowned about 5:30 yesterday evening. Little Teresa was found unresponsive in the hole, which was filled with water, about 15 minutes after she disappeared from in front of the family’s house, where she had been playing with her siblings. The body of the toddler was recovered and taken to the Western Regional Hospital, where she was declared dead on arrival.

Existence of Belize Barrier Reef and other World Heritage Sites threatened by rising ocean temperatures
According to a recent assessment unveiled by UNESCO, World Heritage coral reefs, which include the Belize barrier reef system — still on the list of World Heritage sites in danger — are likely to disappear by 2100 unless carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions are drastically reduced. Countries with responsibility over World Heritage-listed coral reefs should adopt ambitious climate change targets, aiming to cut greenhouse gas emissions to levels that would keep global temperature increases to just 1.5°C, said UNESCO’s World Heritage Centre (WHC), a UN agency responsible for overseeing World Heritage sites.

Orlando Vera’s bail application denied
Orlando Vera, the convicted Deputy Director of the National Forensic and Science Services in the Home Affairs Ministry who was sentenced to serve two years in prison for abetment to pervert the course of justice, got “enough” of court delays in his bail application and asked Supreme Court Justice Herbert Lord to recuse himself from hearing his (Vera’s) appeal late this afternoon. It had become apparent to Vera that his bail application was not going to be successful after a series of appearances and several directives from Justice Lord.

The Belize Times

Justice for little girls in Belize
The death of 13year old Faye Lin Cannon, a young American girl living on Ambergris Caye with her American adoptive parents, has shocked the nation. As relayed on various news outlets, the post mortem examination has revealed the young girl was physically and sexually abused and to such extent that she had a chest compression that broke her ribs whereby one punctured her heart.

Fix Helen Middleton Street
By Gilroy Usher, Sr. Helen Middleton Street (HMS) is the last street to the west of Central American Blvd. in Belize City. This street is home to many residents including well-known Pastor Melvin Davis. It’s also home to a number of small businesses such as August Auto-electrical shop and Pastor Davis’ transport service. Helen Middleton Street is also used daily by scores of pedestrians or persons on bicycles or in vehicles, who need to reach work or conduct business at the Customs Department or Port of Belize. The street is also used to take numerous containers and heavy equipment to and from the port. Residents and small businesses on this street pay thousands of dollars in taxes to the Belize City Council every year. Additionally, use of this street greatly enhances Central Government’s collection of millions of dollars in revenue from the Customs Department and Port of Belize every month.

Thinking Out Loud
By: Kevin Bernard. I have been watching with interest the moves by the UDP to select a slate to contest here in Orange Walk for Municipal Elections. It seems they have been having some difficulty getting persons to commit, despite the best efforts of Elodio Aragon Jr. and Patrick Faber who may – and I stress may – become the new leader of the UDP, but certainly not the next Prime Minister of Belize. I have heard stories from inside the UDP camp of how Aragon and Faber have promised to fund the entire campaigns of certain persons including my friend Phillip de la Fuente, once a Mayor under the UDP and now a candidate for one of the alternative parties, I think. But nobody so far has been willing to put their names down for the UDP, and I think that there are very good reasons for that.

MY PERSPECTIVE – FOCUS ON FRENCH CREOLE
I have traveled to some fifteen Caribbean islands and countries, mostly in my work for the government over the past twenty or more years. Included in these have been Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Saint Maarten, and Surinam, along with the islands/countries of the English speaking Caribbean. I have not been to any French Caribbean territory, something that I regret and would like to ‘correct,’ as it were. I believe that one of my sisters has been to either Martinique or Guadeloupe. The Caribbean experience of culture and language is naturally extremely rich and exciting, and I was able to experience just a bit of it on the French Creole side by reading a novel gifted to me by my English professor sister, Dr. Lydia Baldermos Loskot of Galen University some years ago.

OC Richard Rosado – Policeman or Politician?
Dear Editor: It is amazing that a politician ended up being an Officer Commanding in the police department. Richard Anthony Rosado is the former campaign manager of disgraced Immigration minister Elvin Penner. Rosado is now the Officer in Charge in San Ignacio and it is his first time serving as OC. Under his watch, the formation is an absolute mess. From sexual assault allegations including those officers that are supposed to work with students to politically motivated directives. The Crime Investigation Branch office in San Ignacio is more like a bar. It no longer seems as if the officers are at least trying to solve a case. The office is filled with contraband beers. I ask myself what is Commissioner of Police Allen Whylie thinking? There are 4 unsolved murders in San Ignacio in less than two months.

FFB Fires Michael Blease
The turmoil within the Football Federation of Belize (FFB) is not over. Eighteen days after the embarrassment of an aborted ordinary congress due to a boycott, the Football Federation of Belize dismissed General Secretary Michael Blease. He has been replaced with former magistrate and prison CEO, Earl Jones, although temporarily. On Wednesday July 12th, Acting President Marlon Kuylen said “the things that we thought were wrong, it was actually worse…We see now that we have to make significant changes, and we started Monday by releasing the General Secretary.”

Why the MoD & BDF Coverup?
The Financial Secretary Joseph Waight has frowned upon it as a serious breach of procedure but the public’s suspicion that the seriousness of the case is being downplayed has been justified. On Thursday July 6th, sometime around 5p.m., a Mexican national and two Belizeans were busted on a vessel near Indian Church, Orange Walk with questionable items. They were in possession of outboard motors, boat parts, plane parts, and outboard engine parts from the BDF as well as a BDF uniforms. While in detention, the men led Police to a house behind the old Mi Amor hotel in Orange Walk Town where they found more equipment and a stash of the current and older military fatigues used. Among the items was also one of the newest uniforms.

Sexual Predator Convicted
Bert Vasquez, 33, was convicted late Monday evening on charges of Forcible Abduction and Aggravated Assault of an indecent nature, will be sentenced on Friday, July 21st. A jury of seven men and two women deliberated for two hours before returning the verdict just before 6:30pm. The more serious charge of Forcible Abduction carries a maximum sentence of thirteen years, but the Judge will make that decision following mitigation pleas by Vasquez’s attorney Oscar Selgado.

Guatemalan Killed in Police Shootout
The Belize Police Department is conducting parallel investigations into an incident which resulted in Guatemalans Ervin Huex and Marlon Portillo being shot by Police. Huex received a wound to the chest and died on the spot, while Portillo was shot in the buttocks and groin area and taken into custody. Because it is an officer-related shooting, the Professional Standards Branch is conducting an internal investigation, while the Benque Police are dealing with the fact that the incident was the result of a robbery by the Guatemalans.

If Dah Noh Soh
I’m not gonna say too much about this, except to say that I hope whoever hurt that little girl and finally killed her will die in agonizing pain. I’m also a little pissed because the hands of investigators are tied somewhat by a lack of forensic capabilities. We need to do better than that. Because our Prime Minister is a waste of space…what is it that Trevor Noah called President Trump’s son? A two-legged brain foreclosure…we’re just frigging screwed.

Breaking Belize News

Belizean successfully completes World Customs Organization Career Development Program
The 2016/2017 World Customs Organization (WCO) – Japan Career Development Programme came to a close on Friday, July 14th at the WCO Headquarters, where 10 customs officials from around the globe graduated from the program.

Advisory for air travelers to the USA
The Ministry of Tourism & Civil Aviation today issued an advisory for travelers. Air Travelers departing the Phillip S.W. International Airport en route to destinations in the United States of America are advised that effective, Wednesday, July 19, 2017, in compliance with US security requirements, additional security measures will be implemented on outbound passengers flying from Belize to the U.S.A.

Belize – The Financial and Economic Gurus
Belize will celebrate its 36th anniversary of Independence this September 21, 2017. The country has been governed by the PUP for 17 of those years…..and by the UDP for 18, which may reach 21 years if they serve their current 5-year term. The pool of people with financial and economic experience and training is rather small…hence many of the same names appear in the roster of senior financial advisers and managers of the Belize economy….some having served both the PUP and the UDP.

Mexico and Belize consider human trafficking treaty
Following the rescue of a Belizean teen captured in Chetumal by suspected human traffickers, the government of Belize and Mexico are considering signing a treaty to improve collaboration on combating human trafficking. Hugo Juarez Carrillo, Press and Legal Affairs officer for the Mexican Embassy in Belize, explained that the countries have already begun discussing what the treaty would entail, given the serious threat human trafficking poses to citizen security in both countries.

PUP suggests Mayor Bradley may be unhappy with UDP
People’s United Party (PUP) Leader John Briecno, in an interview with Channel 5 yesterday, suggested that the reason current Belize City Mayor Darrell Bradley may not be seeking re-election is because he could be “ashamed” of his United Democratic Party (UDP).

Belize City man killed by friend
Last night around 8:20, police visited the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) Emergency Room where cops observed Phillip Michael Samuels, 31,of a Belize City address suffering from a single stab wound to the left side of the chest.

Elderly Cowpen villager dies in traffic accident
According to police reports, Ernesto Cadle, 48, a taxi driver of Cowpen village reported about 7:00 last night he was driving his Isuzu Rodeo on the Southern highway from the Cowpen junction to Independence village when he was involved in an accident.

Toledo man charged for Bangladeshi national’s murder
Yesterday, Juan Choc, 23, of Jordan Village, Toledo was taken to court to answer to charges of murder for the death of Bangladeshi national, Abdush Salam. Salam was found dead on July 1 inside his Belize City home nude on his bed with his hands tied behind his back with a belt.

Motorcyclist knocked dead by Independence
Our newsroom has just learnt of a fatal road traffic accident on the Southern highway. We can at this time confirm that a motorcyclist is dead between the villages of San Juan and Independence.

Will Mayor Bradley seek re-election?
Our newsroom has confirmed that two term Belize City Mayor, Darrel Bradley, has not submitted his name to the UDP Secretariat for re-election. The deadline to do so was July 14. So will he run or not? The Mayor has not commented on the matter but his Deputy Party Leader,Patrick Faber, did so previously.

Belizean children to participate in CODICADER
The National Sports Council today announced that Belize will be participating in the upcoming CODICADER Under 15 Games in Honduras from August 20-26, 2017. The President of CODICADER, Licenciado Gerardo A. Fajardo Fernandez has sent an official invitation to Belize to participate in these upcoming games.

New song and video promotes upcoming World Youth Conference
The Department of Youth Services (DYS) held a launching today for the song and music video promoting the World Youth Conference 2017. The DYS held the launch at its Regent Street office this morning, gathering many of the artists featured in the song, along with Belize’s Music Ambassador Shyne Barrow.

Blogs

Survey Says? My First Game Show at The Truck Stop
The Truck Stop is officially the hottest spot in San Pedro – for movies over the water, for sunset drinks and swinging, for the Sunday pig roast and corn hole tourney and for great food and ice cream. But it’s the game show nights that I’ve been hearing the most about – The Newlywed Game…Price is Right… Live game shows starring residents and visitors to Ambergris Caye. Yesterday I attended my first show – THE FAMILY FEUD! Queue the music, start clapping, get ready for the embarrassing answer from the goofy uncle AND, if you are my age, the creepy kissing host, Richard Dawson.

Ancient World Week Held in Corozal NICH
July 17, 2017 the Corozal NICH open its doors to the public to attend the Second Annual Ancient World week that commenced at 1pm. The Introduction to this program for the afternoon activity was based on lecturing the public Archaeology of food Ancient Maya Dietary Patterns. The Institute of Archaeology (NICH) and Northwestern University through the Corozal House of Culture presents Ancient World Week, July 17-20, 2017, at the House of Culture.

Belize: San Ignacio – Hopkins
A former Caribbean outpost of the British Empire and still a part of the Commonwealth, Belize is a tiny yet incredibly diverse nation. Only 290 kilometres long and 190 kilometres wide, it’s bordered by Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the west and south – while enjoying a long Caribbean coastline that’s very popular for tourism. It was something of a shock crossing the border from Guatemala and even though I knew English was the official language I couldn’t quite imagine it might be so different from neighbouring Guatemala. We’d come from Petén province where English is rare and Spanish and Maya dialects are the common languages. So instead of unfamiliar place names and indigenous tongue twisters, we rode past the prosaic Bullet Tree Falls, Tea Kettle and Roaring Creek; although Negroman hints at the change from ladino and Maya to the African-descended people who populate so much of Belize.

Belize Fishing Report: July 10th - July 16th, 2017
A nice week of weather and the bonefish are around in large numbers feeding very well. Our anglers have all been catching a lot of bonefish. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced angler using either bait or a fly, the fish are super hungry and biting it all. The great weather looks like it will continue for the next few days and hopefully longer.

International Sources

What is Belizean Cuisine? Here's Why You Should Drive to Chandler Right Now to Find Out
Set on the coast of Central America, Belize counts the Caribbean Sea as its border to the east, and beyond a lush, dense jungle, Guatemala and the Mexican state of Yucatan, form its inland borders. Given such geography, it isn't much of a surprise that that the dishes of this small country reflect both its neighbors and the confluence of cultures that has become a trademark of the Caribbean islands. Rustic Mayan foods prepared since ancient times, when the ruins that still dot the interior landscape stood tall and proud; trade-town-style Caribbean dishes infused with elements of Spanish and African culture; and modern Mexican and South American street foods, with distinctly Belizean flare, are reflections of the country's distinct and diverse set of influences.

The key to Garifuna unity? Garifuna identity
In response to my latest article on the Summit Meetings and Garifuna Reunification, one of the readers sent me a message stating, “This was an timely reminder of this prestigious event. My hope that the Summit Meetings would have turned into a yearly event, because our fragmentation continues to increase.” In my response, I mentioned that the fragmentation is due to the lack of loyalty to the Garifuna identity and culture. Now nationality and hometown issues supersede the Garifuna issues. We must understand and accept that we are one people who share the same history and a common tradition in language, music and dance among other things. Despite the national boundaries that separate their communities, the Garifuna remain united by sense of common identity!

As we enter sea turtle nesting season, here is some excellent advice from a life-long ocean advocate, wildlife photographer and sea turtle volunteer Lazaro Ruda
Proof that sea turtles, greens in particular, have a funny sense of humor -- often playing the "Guess where I nested" game. The tracks tell a story... This green sea turtle approached the beach from the right side of the picture, bumped into a previously marked loggerhead nest and attempted to nest next to it (sometimes they will dig out each others nest), she changed her mind and ran into some beach furniture (another unsuccessful attempt at nesting next to it). She went on a little loop-d-loop walkabout making numerous attempts to nest. Along her travels she ran into more beach furniture where she finally nested. To throw us volunteers off track, on her way back into the ocean (left side of pic), she did a little digging around to make us think she nested elsewhere. And that is what a sea turtle do! And that is me in the middle saying "Whuttt the heck?!?!" :)

Videos

There is a new top cop in town and his name is Sinquest Martinez, 5min. There is a new top cop in town and his name is Sinquest Martinez. Martinez is a Superintendent in the Police Department with 31 years of experience in the force. His two previous posts were as the Commanding Officer of the Belmopan Police and also as a staff officer in the Office of Head National Crimes Investigation Branch in the capital city.

Economic Development Council Bill, 54min.

The Belize Diabetes Association is preparing for their annual summer camp, 32min.

The Festival of Hope Concert, 23min.

A roaming herd of manatees near St. George's Caye in Belize, 20sec. A herd of six Antillean manatees travels across seagrass flats in the late evening near St. George's Caye in Belize. They moved across many kilometers over the hour we followed them with our small drone. The group zig zagged across patchy shallow waters. Some animals lagged behind but eventually, they clustered, rubbing pectorals and changing course for some greener pastures. Sped up 4X.

National cornfestival Held at Rainbow Beach, Corozal, min.

CSSC Belize Adventure Escape, 3min.

A Decade Together in Belize, 10min.

CAYE CAULKER, The Best Island in Belize. Hero 4 - 4K, 4min.

Belize an stew chicken!, 6min. I wanted to share a part of my culture. give it a try. its simple to make. Strew chicken was and still a staple in Belizean family at least mine. Growing we would have this oven on Sunday. Hope you give a try.

Belize flight, 20min. Our flight from San Pedro to Belize city, I got to sit in the co-pilots seat.

President Reagan Meeting Prime Minister George Cadle Price of Belize on May 12, 1983, 7.5min. Full Title: President Reagan Meeting Prime Minister George Cadle Price of Belize during his Working Visit with Meeting in the Oval Office and Cabinet Room with Lunch in the State Dining Room and then their Departure Remarks at the Diplomatic Entrance on May 12, 1983

July 17, 2017

I will be unable to do the daily news tomorrow, Tuesday morning July 18. I will return on Wednesday morning.

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

The San Pedro Sun

Letter to the Editor: San Pedro Lobster Fest says thanks
On behalf of the San Pedro Lobster Festival Committee we would like thank everyone who helped make San Pedro Lobster Fest 2017 a huge success and express our heartfelt appreciation for the continued contributions and support of the community. We would also like give special thanks to the Belize Tourism Board, San Pedro Town Council and Bowen & Bowen Ltd. for your continued financial support which helps make the festival possible . Our appreciation goes out to Sun Breeze Hotel for accommodating the performers for the steel band. We thank David Marin for being our gracious MC every year. Thank you to Atlantic Bank Ltd. for allowing us every year to use their space. Next a big thank you to all of the businesses that participated in the passport crawl and the block party. These businesses make us proud every year by hosting fun events and serving creative lobster dishes.

Wolfe’s Woofer: Tracker
“What did you think of the Caracol ruins?” our tour guide, Andre, asked us. “It was amazing!” “Awesome!” “Astonishing!” The entire van load of twelve people had nothing but praise for the Mayan ruins at Caracol in western Belize. We had explored the ruins that morning. Now we were making the long trip back on the unpaved jungle road. “Hey, look!” someone exclaimed, as a group of men carrying shotguns and rifles ran across the road in front of us. “What was that all about?” I asked Andre.

Letter to the Editor: Innocence Lost
“What do you want to be when you grow up?” That is a question asked of millions of kids every day, and they usually give at least a dozen answers, some absolutely unachievable, but what do they know? They are innocent, beautiful, carefree children. Little Faye Lin Cannon as one of those children with dreams, of graduating, going to college, first love, and was she pretty enough, good enough, and smart enough. She never had the chance to find out. She was brutally abused, and raped, and murdered in the most horrific way. It has shocked the island and the country, as it well should. This little girl and her adopted sisters would have been better off in some orphanage in China, than to come to Paradise to be slaughtered the way she was.

Doctor Love: Sad Mother-To-Be and Gifted
Dear Doctor Love, My husband and I tried for five years to have a baby and we were overjoyed when I finally became pregnant. From the beginning my husband began planning what his life would be like with a son. He talked about teaching our little boy to play football and soccer and how he was going to take him fishing and camping. Last week I had my twenty-week anomaly ultrasound and during the course of the test, it became apparent that we were not having a little boy at all, but a little girl. My husband is terribly disappointed. He is depressed, won’t talk about the baby and even has called her my baby instead of ours. I am angry that he is being so selfish and is not able to focus on the fact that we are going to be blessed with a healthy child after trying for so long. How can I make him see that this baby is a gift, no matter the gender? /s/Sad Mother-To-Be

Misc Belizean Sources

Supaul Street family lost everything in a fire
Call Shern Williams if you can donate anything to the family. She is a single mother of 4 and her phone number is 6204024. On 16.07.17 at 3:30 a.m., police visited No. 3168 Supal Street, Belize City where they saw a building engulfed in flames and personnel from the fire Department on the scene. A plywood house measuring about 15ft by 25ft belonging to 24-year-old Devon Sankey construction worker was completely destroyed by fire. Another house located in the same yard also made of plywood measuring about 20ft by 30ft belonging to Shern Williams received partial damage. She reported that around 3:29 a.m. she smelled smoke coming into her room and upon making checks she saw Sankey’s house completely engulfed in flames. He was not home at the time of the fire. The Fire Department personnel classified the cause of the fire as electrical as their investigation revealed that the fire originated from an overheated television wire. Total damage caused has not yet been ascertained.

Motorcycle Accident
At 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 16th, police visited Saint Margaret's Village between miles 34 and 35 and saw a motorcycle on the side of the highway. 21 year old Jorge Rodriguez was travelling from Saint Margaret to Belmopan when he lost control an collided into the metal railing. Travelling with him was a female passenger. Both were transported to the Western Regional Hospital. Rodriguez sustained a large cut to the left hand and a cut wound to the head. The female remains unidentified a this time and she had a fractured jaw, multiple cut wounds to the head and face and superficial abrasions to the chest.

Tacoma and Bus collide
On Saturday, July 15th, an accident occurred in St. Mathews Village involving a James Bus and a blue Toyota Tacoma at 4:48 p.m. No one was injured in the James Bus that was being driven by 56 yr old Clyde Tasher. However, the driver of the Tacoma, 47 year old Marcelino Umana, received injuries to both ears and his back. He was admitted to the Western Regional Hospital in a stable condition. His wife Suyapa Rodriguez was thrown out of the vehicle and suffered a broken left arm, broken shoulder blade and six broken ribs. She was transferred to the KHMH in a critical but stable condition. The Toyota Tacoma was extensively damaged. A Notice of Intended Prosecution was issued to thr driver of bus.

Iris Montenegro is Missing
On 14/07/17 at 10:00 Ever Montenegro of Santa Cruz Village, Stann Creek reported that 12/07/17 at 7:30 a.m. his 16 year old sister Ingris Montenegro, a student of Georgetown Technical High School and a resident of Santa Cruz Village, left home en-route to Independence Village. She has not been seen or heard from since. Ingris Montenegro was last seen wearing, her school uniform.

Weed and ammunition found in abandoned property
On 13/07/17 Belize City Police conducted searches on abandoned lots in the George Street area of Belize City. The searches resulted in the discovery of a total of 431 grams of suspected cannabis and thirty (30) 9mm rounds of ammunition. No one was in the area at the time of the searches. The drugs and ammunition were deposited as "found property."

Ladyville man and Mexican cab driver busted for marijuana in Corozal
On 14/07/17 at 11.20am while Corozal Police were conducting mobile patrol in the Santa Elena area, Belize northern border, where they searched a white with yellow stripes Nissan car bearing license plate 19-46-TRW Quintana Roo Mexico being driven by 55 year old JORGE ANZURES ALFARO Mexican taxi driver of Chetumal and passenger 22 yr old JERMAINE Sanker of Ladyville. The search led to the discovery of 1,578 grams of cannabis. Police have since arrested and charged both men for the offence of DRUG TRAFFICKING.

Fatal accident after vehicle's mechanical problems
At 7:40 p.m. on Saturday night a vehicle overturned on the San Victor Road after making contact with a parked vehicle. Corozal police visited an area between San Narcisco and San Victor where they found an extensively damaged blue and silver Mazda pickup was seen on the side of the road and an overturned, white Ford Ranger, also extensively damaged. 24 year old police officer, Victor Noble was driving the white Ford Ranger when he experienced mechanical problems. He put on his hazard lights and got out of the vehicle and pushed it along with the aid of a passenger. While attending to his vehicle, the driver of the Mazda pickup traveling from San Victor collided into the Ford pickup and and the vehicle crashed off the roadside The passenger, Carlos Carias was rushed to the Corozal Hospital where he died.

Motmot Heritage Camp Closing Ceremonies
"Motmot closing Ceremonies. We want to thank all the parents who sent their children to learn a little more about our culture. All the volunteers, the artisans Ms. Brenda Penados, Mr. Camal, Mr. Eleodoro Martinez, Ms. Shelly Martinez, Ms. Bertha Penados, Mr. Rosalio penados, Ms. Maria Penados, Dr. Filiberto Penados, Ms. Lauren, Ms. Linda, Kyllyn, Kattyln, Ms. Letty Chuc, Mr. Mai, Mr. Francisco Gongora, Ms. Marisol Godoy, Ms. Ester Godoy, Ms. Shelly Cocom, Maddie Zara and Rotaractors Debbie Alfaro, Aurelio Guerra, Yancy Nabet, Melissa Krebs, Ricky Cunil. We also want to thank San Jose Succotz Village Council, San Jose Succotz RC Primary School, M & M Store for lending us the tents to carry out this event and have some Shelter. And everyone who made the Motmot Heritage Educational Camp possible and a success Thank you."

Festival of Hope 2017
The Festival of Hope is Thursday and Friday in Belmopan. The free event is going to have music, games, food, motivational speeches, and much more. Video for the event. "Festival of Hope – Belmopan Thursday & Friday July 20-21st Daytimes At Mae Gordon Park 8:30-2pm Youth & Kids Sports & Fun Days Football Tournament, Basketball Tournament, Volleyball Competition, and PRIZES!!! Presentations, Songs, Bands, Skits, Fun, Food, Festival!! Night Times At UB Gym – 7 pm Christafari “Positive” from Trinidad Ray Centanni, Speaker Local Band Performances Don’t miss out on this awesome time!!! This is a COMMUNITY OUTREACH, so bring your neighbours, cousins, family, work partners, Bring everyone you can!!!"

The Reporter

Vehicle collision in Corozal kills passenger
A traffic accident on the San Victor road in Corozal has resulted in the death of a Stann Creek resident. At around 7:40 p.m., on Saturday, police responded to the scene of a traffic accident, where they observed a blue two-door Mazda pickup on the side of the road extensively damaged, and a white Ford Ranger pickup truck overturned and also extensively damaged. Travelling inside the pickup as a passenger was 26-year-old Carlos Carrias, who suffered severe head and body injuries. He was transported to the Corozal hospital, where he later died. According to a police press release, 24-year-old Victor Noble told investigators that he was driving his vehicle on the San Victor road when he experienced mechanical problems and had to push the vehicle to the side of the road.

Traffic mishap between bus and pickup leaves two injured
A traffic mishap at the junction of the More Tomorrow road on the George Price Highway, between a James bus and a pickup truck has left a couple from More Tomorrow village recovering from serious injuries. At around 4:48 p.m., on July 15, 47-year-old Marcelino Umana and his common law wife, Suyapa Rodriguez were parked in their Toyota pick-up truck at the junction of the More Tomorrow feeder road, when a James bus heading towards Belize City collided into the back of their vehicle. The impact of the crash flung Rodriguez out of her passenger seat, breaking her left arm, shoulder blades, and six bones in her ribcage. She was rushed to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) in a critical condition. Umana was taken to the Western Regional Hospital in a stable condition, suffering from injuries to his head and back.

Breaking Belize News

Share the love: Humane Society holds animal adoption drive
The Belize Human Society (BHS), held an animal adoption drive in downtown Belize City yesterday, encouraging Belizeans to open their homes to puppies and kittens in need of a home. Deborah Lewis, president of the BHS, explained that some of the animals were abandoned or injured, and the BHS helped nurse them back to health, but they need caring owners to give them a home. Lewis said that the BHS was also using the opportunity to do outreach for their responsible pet ownership campaign, which forms a part of the society’s mandate.

Boat stolen in Placencia
The public is asked to be on the lookout for a stolen boat. The boat is named Steffy and is described as a 23 Mexican built with a low bow. It is white outside and light blue inside with a 60 hp Yamaha 2 stroke engine.

Hard Rock remembered today
Andrew ” DJ Hardrock” Bennett was gunned down weeks ago near his home on Central American Boulevard in Belize City. His life and contributions to his community will be celebrated today at the 46th Day of Healing. There will be a walk of peace walk through the streets of Belize City and will begin near the location where he was killed.

ComPol calls out NBZLive
Commissioner of Police, Allen Whylie is calling on the administrators of the Facebook Page, NBZLive, to disclose whatever information they have on the whereabouts of former Hattieville Village Council Chairman Kevin Carcamo. NBZLive made a post suggesting that Carcamo, who was reported missing in 2014, is alive and living in the United States. NBZLive went on to allege that the source of their information claims that the ComPol knows Carcomo’s whereabouts.

Motorcyclist knocked down in Belama
At around midnight yesterday, a non-fatal road traffic accident was reported in Belize City. A BBN reporter tavelled to the Albert Hoy Boulevard in Belama where we found police processing the scene. A van had knocked down a motorcyclist. According to our police sources, the van came into the motorcyclist’s lane.

One dead in fatal traffic accident in Corozal
Last night around 7:40, police received information of a vehicle that overturned on the San Victor Road in Corozal. Police visited an area between San Narcisco and San Victor where a blue and silver 2 door Mazda pickup was seen on the side of the road extensively damaged, and a white Ford Ranger overturned, also extensively damaged.

Blogs

Lunch With Chocolate in San Pedro, Belize
My friend is visiting Belize! It’s been a few years and yesterday, we went to two of her favorite places for lunch. Two of my favorites. Wild Mango’s on the beach and the Chocolate Company.

Third Day of National Cornfest was in Corozal 2017
National Cornfestival was held on Sunday the last day of the National Cornfestival with full of activities during the day. The crew behind this event would like to thank all those sponsored, donated, helped to make this event better and success. Well, lets start how the event concluded on Sunday. Family, friends, tourists and locals came out on Sunday to witness the last day of the Cornfestival. Many may ask What is Cornfestival? Cornfestival is an event where booths came out to dispaly everything that had to do with coconut husk, Corn, Tamales, Hudut, tamalitos made with corn and more. Its an mayan tradition where you learn about the Maya's culture food, clothes, religion and more.

International Sources

Salvadorans fleeing street gangs find safety in Belize village
Set up to shelter civil war refugees during the turbulent 1980s, the Valley of Peace is now welcoming Central Americans fleeing violent crime. Juan Barrera* fled El Salvador alone when he was just 16. It was 1990 and, like thousands of others, the civil war forced him from his home. Juan bounced around Central America for years, scraping by until an uncle told him of a haven of peace just across the Guatemalan border in the small English-speaking country of Belize. He found the village, scraped together enough money for a plot of land and began subsistence farming. Nearly 30 years later, he makes a comfortable living, growing cabbages, cucumbers, tomatoes and more to sell in the Belizean capital, Belmopan. One of his sons has gone to university and a daughter is on her way there. Juan is one of hundreds of Central American refugees who found sanctuary in the aptly named Valley of Peace and he is hoping to pass the help and encouragement he found on to a new generation of refugees.

Videos

A Day in Belize City!, 10min.

Tarpon Fishing San Pedro Belize with Gofish Belize, 11min. Was lucky enough to land a tarpon while vacationing in san pedro belize. Tour guide was "abby" from GoFish Belize. Great guide and what an amazing experience!

I went to Belize... AGAIN?! | Kaylee Dawn, 7min. Setting: Placencia, Stann Creek, Belize Great Place for a vacation without the tourist-feel!

Ambergris Caye - Belize - 2017, 7min. Ambergris Caye - San Pedro, Belize (Fly fishing for bonefish, reef fishing, snorkeling, lobster diving, and beachin')

Barrera de Arrecife de Belize, 4min. Snorkel en la Barrera de Arrecife de Belize, la segunda más larga del mundo después de la de Australia.

July 16, 2017

The news will be a bit brief for the next week or so due to time constraints

Snippet of today's activities at the National Corn, Coconut & BBQ Festival

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

The San Pedro Sun

San Pedro and Caye Caulker Police complete in-service training
On Tuesday, July 11th and Wednesday, July 12th, a group of Special Constables and police officers of the Coastal Executive Unit (Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker) participated in an in-service training. Held at San Pedro Town Council Conference Room, in-service training has been cited as one of the most important responsibilities in any law enforcement. From 9AM to 5PM, facilitators Assistant Superintendent (ASP) Eusebio Lanza, Officer Commanding Training Planning and Support Unit, National Police Training Academy (NPTA); and Sergeant (Sgt) Clinton Magdaleno, Instructor at NPTA, took turns consulting participants on current laws and practices of the Belize Police Department.

Guest Editorial: Small Efforts -can make a Big Impact
– By Dr. Eileen Anderson-Fye. The horrors of Faye Lin Cannon’s life and death are almost too awful to imagine. In recent days the community has seen protests, calls for justice, and exhortations for more services for children. But looking at her picture in news reports, and knowing what she endured, it feels nearly impossible to hold on to hope. Faye’s case is most prominent right now, yet Belizean authorities report receiving close to 1,500 cases of abuse and neglect in 2016. Even more tragic, they acknowledge that many more never come to official notice. How many children are in circumstances like Faye’s? Can any one person, or even group of people, really make a difference? Or is it all just too enormous, too complex – just too hard to address?

Misc Belizean Sources

Mexico stops Belize buses from entering Chetumal
Mexico announced yesterday that they will no longer allow Belizean buses to cross the border into Chetumal. This will be a blow to Belizean operators, a boom for Chetumal taxis, and extra cost for Belizeans visiting Chetumal. The owners flatly refused to adhere to standards acceptable to Mexico and yet demanded reciprocity. Mexico agreed to allow time for them to get up to standard but that time has run out. Operators complained that enforcement of standards in Belize to meet the Mexican requirement will inevitably lead to a demand for higher fares.

NICH Media Session
The Institute of Archaeology (NICH) Belize and Institute for Social & Cultural Research met with various media outlets to discuss media in Belize, and it's impact on culture. It was a great meeting, and some strategic brainstorming was done in regards to promoting culture. Hopefully, positive events and cultural events can be covered more, and certain media outlets that simply focus on the negative can gain some journalistic integrity. Link in fb.

Youth Star Talent Search
The Youth Star Talent Search Show and Dance will be next Saturday, July 22nd, starting at 3pm, at the Belmopan Civic Centre

The Reporter

US teen dies in road fatality
A traffic accident at midday today in the Stann Creek district has claimed the life of an 18-year-old US citizen. According to the Police Press Office, Devin Robert Merriell died at the scene of injuries he sustained during a road collision at the Bocawina junction. Merriell was exiting the junction and making his way onto the highway, using a rented motorcycle, when he crashed into an oncoming tow head truck. A Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) was issued to the driver of the truck, Abraham Friescen, a resident of Guinea Grass village.

Contraband caught before reaching Belize City
A joint operation by the Mobile Interdiction Team (MIT) and police officers from Precinct III proved successful in the confiscation of a variety of contraband cigarettes and whiskey before they reached Belize City. Police received a tip and they and MIT personnel apprehended Alfred Edward Usher, 53, a resident of Orange Walk town, as he alighted a bus from Orange Walk to Belize City. Usher made his way to a taxi, which was when police moved in for their search, which uncovered 38 cartons of contraband cigarettes and two litres of Buchanan brand Whiskey. The items were handed over to the Customs Department in Belize City, whose personnel will now handle the case.

Teacher jailed for having sex with student
A teacher was remanded to the Hattieville prison on a charge of having ‘unlawful sexual intercourse’ with a 15 year-old student. The teacher is Eric Mazin, 24, who teaches at Mopan Technical high school in Benque Viejo del Carmen, Cayo. San Ignacio police have been investigating the incident for some time and on July 14, arrested and charged Mazin. He was remanded to prison until his next court date on October 16.

Breaking Belize News

Road traffic accident near Beaver dam bridge
By BBN Staff: Around 4:30 today, a pick up truck collided with a James bus near the Beaver dam bridge on the George Price Highway. According to reports, the pick up truck had two passengers – a male and a female.

BPMS workers given bail
By BBN Staff: BBN reported on Wednesday of two workers from BPMS who were caught with 25 pounds of weed. Police busted them on the outskirts of Orange Walk. The weed was in a large box in the cargo van. According to police reports, the weed was not cargo, it was a package that the driver and sideman were responsible for.

US citizen dies in fatal traffic accident
By BBN Staff: BBN has confirmed the identity of the man that died in the fatal traffic accident this afternoon. According to reports, Devin Robert Merriell, 18, a US citizen, was riding a rented motorcycle and was coming out of the Bocawina Junction when he collided on another vehicle being driven by Abraham Friescen of Guinea Grass.

Fatal road traffic accident on Southern highway
By BBN Staff: Reports to BBN is that a fatal traffic accident occured a short while ago on the Southern Highway. The accident occured near the junction leading to Bocawina.

Belize City police find weed and ammo
By BBN Staff: According to police reports, on Thursday Belize city police conducted searches on abandoned lots in the George Street area. Police found a total of 431 grams of suspected cannabis and thirty .9mm rounds of ammunition.

Stann Creek teen missing
By BBN Staff: Yesterday morning around 10, Ever Montenegro ,31, of Santa Cruz Village, Stann Creek reported that on Wednesday, July 12, at 7:30 am his sister Ingris Montenegro, 16, student of Georgetown Technical High School left home en-route to Independence.

Chetumal taxi man and Belizean charged for drug trafficking
By BBN Staff: Yesterday morning around 11.20, while Corozal Police were conducting mobile patrol in the Santa Elena area, Belize northern border, they searched a white with yellow stripes Nissan Izuzu car. The car had Quintana Roo license plates and was being driven by 55 year old, Jorge Anzures Alfaro, Mexican taxi driver of Chetumal.

Man stabbed multiple times in Roaring Creek
By BBN Staff: Last night around 10:30, Roaring Creek Police visited the Western Regional Hospital where they saw a man with multiple stab wounds to the body. He was identified as Jason Jones, 34, Belizean attendant at Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital and a resident.

Convicted firearms examiner denied bail again
By BBN Staff: Convicted firearms examiner, Orlando Vera, who was arrested for offering American Michael Modiri to lose supposed evidence against him in exchange for a bribe, has been denied bail for a fourth time by the Supreme Court. Vera is serving a two-year prison term for the charge of ‘abetment to pervert the course of justice’. His attorney, Anthony Sylvestre, filed the application in Supreme Court yesterday but Justice Herbert Lord denied it.

Orange Walk man busted for contraband cigarettes
By BBN Staff: Yesterday morning, acting on information received, police from Precinct 3 in Belize City awaited a Tillett bus at the Northern Entrance. Based on the description given, a man came off the bus and boarded a taxi. The man had 15 cartons of Elite brand cigarettes, 9 cartons of Elegant brand cigarettes, 4 cartons of LG premium brand cigarettes and 2 liters of Buchanan’s whisky.

Mayor Bradley making way for new Mayoral candidates?
By BBN Staff: The Amandala Newspaper is reporting that two sitting Belize City Councillors have applied to run for the post of Mayor, which is currently held by Darrel l Bradley. The report indicates that Philip Willoughby and Deon Leslie have applied to run for the post. Willoughby had previously applied to serve as the UDP’s Standard Bearer in the Albert division but was later replaced by political newcomer Tracy Panton.

Blogs

Bugs that Bite in Belize
For much of the year (the dry, breezy season – usually December thru about now) – I hardly notice them at all. The mosquitoes aren’t around – they wait for standing fresh water to lay their demon seed, the pesky sand flies are whisked away by the wind… THE MOSQUITO: You can start with a short trivia test to see what you REALLY know about mossie. And here is a super interesting article about the History of Humanity’s Bloody War Against the Mosquito in Wired. SANDFLIES: Sandflies are tiny little nothings…also called no-see-ums, midges and sandfleas that REALLY irritate some…and hardly bother others. For me, I feel the light sting but don’t get a raised bump. For others, they can be the bane of their existence. BOTLASS OR “BATTLE ASS” FLIES: These tiny black flies are TOTAL ASSHOLES. I have encountered them only on the mainland and can find no reason for their locations. You don’t even notice them…tiny…black…you don’t even feel them biting but you notice a droplet of blood on your legs. DOCTOR FLIES: I have no idea where they got their names…they are one of the world’s most dim-witted insects. They are aggressive about following you about but oh so easy to kill. These yellow bellied flies are a bit larger than your average housefly and have more of a pointed abdomen. FIRE ANTS: All previous beasts described bite to get blood to make their babies. Though I don’t like it, there is a reason. These ANTS just bite for the hell of it. Like bees, they sting just to be mean…protect themselves….whatever.

Second Day on the National Cornfest held in Corozal Rainbow Park
As this was the main attraction of the event, the weather didn't stopped the locals and tourists from enjoying the weather. Everyone swam on the water and drove the jet sky and sailed away on the Bay of Corozal. People from around the country, including from Chetumal came to attend National Corn Fest. If you missed it this weekend you still have one more day. If you can't make it on the last day there's always next year.

International Sources

Countries With Coral Reefs Must Do More on Climate
Countries with responsibility over world heritage-listed coral reefs should adopt ambitious climate change targets, aiming to cut greenhouse gas emissions to levels that would keep global temperature increases to just 1.5°C, the UN agency responsible for overseeing world heritage sites has said. At a meeting of Unesco’s world heritage committee in Kraków, Poland, a decision was adopted that clarified and strengthened the responsibility of countries that have custodianship over world-heritage listed coral reefs. Until now, most countries have interpreted their responsibility over such reefs as implying they need to protect them from local threats such as water pollution and overfishing.

Videos

Belize - Agressor Fleet, 15min.

BELIZE in 4K | San Pedro, La Isla Bonita, 4min. A fun-filled week on beautiful Ambergris Caye, including some adventures on mainland Belize.

Cayo...Adventures in Belize (Mayors projects and welcome center), 10min. Another segment aired as part of the television show, "Cayo...Adventures in Belize." Produced by Steve ODell

Great Blue Hole Belize, 2.5min. Aerial view of my plane flight over the Great Blue Hole and the Mesoamerican Reef in Belize. No words can describe the beauty of this natural wonder and the incredible scale of blue colours around it.

Western Caribbean Jan 2017 | Lamanai EcoTour River Cruising in Belize, 29min. In Jan 2017, I went on a tour to the Mayan Ruins of Lamanai in Belize.

San Pedro Belize June 2017, 3min.

San Pedro Belize June 2017, 5min.

CCBT Final Four 2107 Belize Vegan Roots, 14min. Defense, defense, defense is the encode on this road to the bball championship. Watch vegan raw and living athletes excel with tenacity, focus, discipline and endurance fueled by solar-energized, plant-based nutrition for optimum performance, brain, body and spirit.

San Pedro, Belize - June 2017, 6min.

July 15, 2017

The news will be a bit brief for the next week or so due to time constraints

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

The San Pedro Sun

Casa Pan Dulce celebrates 20 years of sweet service
On Tuesday, July 11th, Casa Pan Dulce Bakery celebrated 20 years of service to the Belizean community. In honour of the special occasion, the San Pedro Town based bakery offered a 20% discount on all its products on the island, and 10% discount at their other branches located in San Ignacio and Santa Elena Town in the Cayo District. At the different locations, cake raffles were conducted and patrons were treated with gift bags and complementary cupcakes. Proprietor of Casa Pan Dulce Andre Perez stated that they look forward to continue serving the community for another 20 plus years. “We are happy to be celebrating two decades of excellent work, and we thank everyone for their continuous support,” Perez said.

Belize is banned from participating in CODICADER games
The Central American Council of Sports and Recreation (CODICADER) has banned Belizeans athletes from participating in its annual games for the next two years. This is as a result of Belize being sanctioned, after it was unable to meet CODICADER’s request to host the special athletes’ competition this year. The Government of Belize has said it does not have sufficient funds to host the special games in the country, and organizers of CODICADER are expected to exclude Belize from the competition.

Government authorities respond to illegal dredging in Northern Ambergris Caye
Reports of unauthorized dredging taking place within the Hol Chan Marine Reserve Expansion Zone on the west coast of Northern Ambergris Caye, have prompted local authorities on the island to issue an immediate stop order. This is the second time the activity is being reported, and on Tuesday, July 11th, the Hol Chan Marine Reserve filed a formal complaint to the Mining Unit in the Ministry of Natural Resources. At such, personnel from the Mining Unit are planning to visit to the island to conduct a site inspection. According to them, the company responsible for the unauthorized activity may face penalties, depending on the extent of the damage caused by the dredging.

Minister Heredia questioned on immigration at the Senate Special Select Committee
Area Representative of Belize Rural South and Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Honourable Manuel Heredia Jr., appeared before the Senate Special Select Committee on Wednesday, July 12th to answer questions on the ongoing immigration investigation. Heredia’s name appeared multiple times in the Auditor General’s Special Report on Immigration and Nationality 2011-2013. The report states that he made several recommendations for persons to receive visas, passports and nationalities, for which they did not qualify. At the Senate inquiry, Heredia was also questioned about the back and forth movement of packages directed to both immigration offices in San Pedro Town and Belmopan City. He defended himself by stating that he was providing a courier service for his constituency and that he never manipulated or violated the immigration laws at the time of assisting people gain legal status in the country.

Misc Belizean Sources

Quadrangular Football Tournament
San Pedro! Come out this Sunday July 16th! To the Ambergris Stadium! For a day full of football action! Quadrangular style Marathon!

R.I.P. Mr. Bungos
Mr. Bungos passed away last night at 10 pm, may he rest in peace.

Mayor Daniel Guerrero, Councilor Gabriel Nuñez and Councilor Severo Guerrero presented a cheque of $1000 to Hope Haven Children's Home
on behalf of the people of San Pedro Town. Present to accept the donation was Brittney O'Daniel from the Raise Me Up foundation and Christopher Burkey who is organizing a fundraising event at the Lion's Den this Saturday starting at 11:00 a.m. - Everyone's invited! All proceeds will go towards Hope Haven!

GLOW (Girls Leading Our World) Camp 2017!
Over 60 girls from across the country, from different cultures gathered together for 5 days and participated in fun camp activities and learning sessions ranging from self esteem to leadership to team building. Sessions were led by Volunteers, Counterparts and other invited guests.

Digital Marketing Summit 2017
Embracing technology for an optimal Belize tourism marketing collaboration...

Channel 7

Anke Doehm No Bail, In Jail
Last night, we told you how the American couple, Anke and David Doehm were arraigned an remanded on the first charge that somehow links them to the death of their adopted daughter Faye Lin Cannon. They are at prison awaiting their next adjournment date on the offense of "cruelty to a child", but it caused a great stir on Facebook today, when this picture was posted. We can't say for sure that this is Anke Doehm, but the rumors where that she was at a bank, when she should have been in jail. That led to all kind of speculation that she was being treated preferentially, or that she had been granted bail.

Maya Mopan, Another Baby Drowns In A Well
Today the family of a 17 month old baby girl is in mourning after she drowned in a well. Baby Orellana was playing with her family when she made her way to a well on the edge of the family's property unnoticed; she fell in before anyone realized she was missing, and died before they found her. Orellana is the second baby from Belmopan's Maya Mopan area to drown this year. In January, 18 month old Edwin Duarte, fell into his family's well while they were doing the laundry. Today, our news team went out west to find out what happened. Here's Alex Courtenay with the story... Yesterday the children of the Coy family in Maya Mopan were playing the front of their family's property when 17 month old Orellana slipped away from the group unnoticed. She was only out of sight for a few minutes before the older kids realized she was gone and began to panic.

Kevin Carcamo, Still Missing Despite Reports To The Contrary
If you follow the news, you might remember Kevin Carcamo - he's the former chairman of the Hattieville Village Council who went missing in July, 2014. His disappearance remains a mystery - and for weeks now we've been hearing reports that he slipped away to the US while his family has been looking for him here. Again, it's a rumor but it picked up traction today when the FACEBOOK page NBZLive posted a story saying that Carcamo is alive and well in the United States.

Teacher Sent To Jail For Sex With Student
Tonight a teacher from Mopan Technical high is on remand at the Hattieville prison, accused of having unlawful sex intercourse with a 15 year old female student. San Ignacio police had been investigating for some time - and brought charges against 24 year old Eric Mazin yesterday. He was arraigned and remanded.

BPMS Workers Get Bail
Since Wednesday we've been reporting on the two mail couriers for BPMS who were busted with 25 pounds of weed just outside Orange Walk. The weed was in a large rectangular box inside the cargo truck. Police say the weed was not a piece of cargo, but a package that the driver 31-year-old Jose Garcia and sideman 30-year-old Brian Hernandez were responsible for. They were charged for drug trafficking and denied bail in Orange Walk Magistrate's Court yesterday, but today in the Supreme Court Justice Denis Hanomansingh offered them bail of $5,000 dollars each. The two Corozal residents met bail and were free to go.

GSU Beat Keith
Keith Yearwood is the brother of well known police Inspector Fitzroy Yearwood, but he's also a deportee, and he says that may be what caused the GSU to pounce on him last night. Yearwood says he was pulling up to Tow Tow grocery with two kids in his car - when the GSU pulled up and proceeded to beat him down:. Keith Yearwood, Beaten by GSU: "Members of the GSU unit surrounded my car with machine guns and demanded that I and my daughter get out the car. When upon getting out the car, one of the GSU officers dragged me by my hair and try to pull me down to the ground. The other one put a gun on my daughter and demanded that she get out. I informed both of them before they even asked her to get out that it was my daughter who is also and minor. She is only 15 years old."

MIT Made A Contraband Bust
Police caught a Orange Walk resident on a contraband move this morning. 53 year old Alfred Edward Usher was heading down from Orange Walk to Belize City with a stash of contraband cigarettes and whisky. The MIT and Precinct 3 Police had advance information and they waited for him at the northern entrance to the city. Usher alighted the bus and got into a taxi which is when police stopped and searched him. They found 15 cartons of elite brand cigarettes. 10 cartons of elegant brand cigarette, 9 cartons of elegant brand cigarettes, 4 cartons of LG premium brand cigarettes and 2 liters of Buchanan's whisky. All of them were handed over to Customs Belize City which will now handle the case.

Stuart's Story
Last night we told you about Darren Stuart Sr. and Jr - who were taken to court for a confrontation that they'd had with bus driver Deon Brenton Talbert. Darren Jr was charged for harm, while Darren Sr. was charged for aggravated assault and threatening words. Turns out they were fighting over bus runs. Talbert drives for McFadzean bus while the Stuart's have their own bus line - both operating in the Belize River Valley. Darren Stuart says that McFadzean Bus has been running almost half an hour late, and encroaching on the time for his run. Stuart says he has been complaining to the Department of Transport about the violation and its fallen on deaf ears, so in early June he had to take matters into his own hands. He felt his position wasn't reflected in the story we got form the court yesterday, so he agreed to an interview today - telling us his account of the confrontation:...

Vera Denied Bail Again
For the past month or so, the convicted firearms examiner, Orlando Vera, has been trying to get Supreme Court bail. He's serving a 2-year sentence for the charge of abetment of the crime of perverting the course of Justice, but he is in the process of appealing. His attorney believes that he is entitled to bail while waiting for the appeal, and they've been trying convince Justice Herbert Lord of that. So far, he's already made 3 applications for Supreme Court bail, and today, he was denied again. As we told you, there are delays in the court process because the full record of the case needs to be sent from the Magistracy to the the Supreme Court.

Fire In Flores
There was a house fire in Las Flores which damaged a cement home. Yesterday at around midday Terry Coleman put a load of clothes in her washing machine and dryer before going to her kitchen to begin cooking. While preparing the food, Coleman said that she heard noises coming from the laundry room and went to check it out. By the time she got there, the entire room was in flames. The fire spread to the roof and throughout the rest of the house before the Belmopan Fire Department arrived on the scene. The damaged to the home and its contents is estimated at around $27,500. The house was uninsured.

Digital Tourism
Today the BTB held its third annual Digital Summit. As we told you in our preview on Wednesday, the one-day event is an opportunity for tourism stakeholders to learn how to harness the internet and social media as marketing tools. Two of the presenters told us its all about finding how to attract social media users with marketing content tailored to their interests:... James Lager, Connections Strategy Supervisor - CIsco: "It's really important to be active in social, because it's becoming increasingly large part of people's media consumption and that provides a lot of opportunities for brands and specifically in Belize things like hotels and tour operators - the opportunity to reach the people that matter to their business." "Obviously there are 2 and half million pieces of content that are published to Facebook every single minute. So it's increasingly important that your content is adding value to people's lives as opposed to just selling them on a product."

UNICEF Wants To Hear From The Children
Children aren't the ones that come immediately to mind when there are discussions of national issues affecting those very same youth. Well UNICEF along with its partners attempted to change that model today when it organized a 4 day consultation session with 20 youth to do just that: for them to speak up on challenges they face and to give ideas on how to overcome them. And of course all this was done in a fun and engaging way. So today the participants showcased their ideas through skits and dramatization. We stopped by to find out more about the initiative.

Man Loses Life On Southern
A man was killed on the southern highway early this morning. At 12:40 am, Gilbert Romero Jr of Independence Village was driving a Ford Ranger when he lost control between miles 37 and 38 on the Southern Highway. The pickup overturned and he received severe head and body injuries - which killed him on the spot.

Worst Kind Of Deja Vu At Nuevo Nostalgia Bar
Last night at 9:00 there was an armed robbery at the Nuevo Nostalgia Bar in Orange Walk. The owner, Isis Sanchez was robbed of $2,500 dollars by two men - one of them was armed. Asking to appear off camera, one of the waitresses told us about the holdup... Voice of: Isis Sanchez, Owner: "Two persons came in with firearms with their faces covered, one of them went to the counter and took all the money. The one with the gun went up and took away chains and rings from two clients. The next one down here took away the jewelry from my employees and both of them escaped."

NOC Forced To Pay 15K For Cross Country Samples
Two nights ago - we told you how the Belize Cycling Federation still hadn't handed out cross country finishing prizes three whole months after the race in April. That's because the urine samples which were sent to the UCLA Lab for testing haven't been tested. And that's because the National Olympic Committee owes the lab. Now, we spoke to the President of the Olympic Committee, Hilly Martinez and he says they've run into arrears because the Cycling Federation failed to pay for the tests for the New Year's Day race as promised. The Cycling Federation says that's untrue, because the Olympic Committee agreed with KREM, who organized the race, to sponsor the samples sent from that race. What's more, the NOC says it fully paid the former National Anti Doping Representative in Belize, Patrick Henry for all of its tests.

Healing and Hope
For the past 4 years now, community activist Perry "Stix" Smith has been on a sort of crusade with his Days of Healing initiative. He and his supporters have been going into the gang-ridden communities to host family days as a sort of ointment to sooth the deep wounds in those communities who have lost loved-ones to gun violence. On Sunday, he's back at it again, and this time, he's teaming up with Erwin X, on a Day of Healing dedicated to the memory of Andrew Bennett, the popular DJ known as "Hard Rock". He was gunned down and killed in May, and these activists say that a Day of Healing eat the Iguana Street Court could alleviate the pain of his loss.

Songster Sanchez in Belize
Sanchez and Flourgon, they're two veteran Jamaican reggae artists, who've been mashing up the reggae and dancehall music scenes since the 1980's. They're known for hits such as Frenzy, Never Dis D man, Pretty Girl, Missing You, and Brown Eyes. And tonight, they're in Belize for the Summer Fest 2017 Concert, where they are sure to perform their career-spanning hits for local fans. This evening, the promoters hosted a press conference for the the Duo and Belize's own TR Shine, to tell you why you'll want to attend: The Concert takes place on Saturday at the Castleton Entertainment Park in Burrell Boom. It starts at 9:00.

Philloughby In It To Win It
And finally tonight, we can confirm that four term Belize city councillor Phillip Willoughby has submitted his name to run as Mayor or councillor. Williughby told us he submitted it to the party secretariat this evening, and will now work towards getting a mandate. And what about the incumbent two term mayor, Darrell Bradley? Did he submit his name? WEll, indications are that he has not, but Bradley follows his own timeline even though today was the deadline for city hopefuls.

ERWIN EXTRO
We leave you tonight with the poet, Erwin X, and his latest poem very relevant for violent times, called Shooting Star..

Channel 5

Toddler girl drowns in pit at Maya Mopan home
Six months ago in January, we reported on the death of an eighteen-month-old child, Edwin Lorenzo Duarte. He drowned after falling into an uncovered well while playing behind his house [...]

Doehm couple went to bank before they went to jail
A photograph of Anke Doehm has been making the rounds on social media. The photo is taken from afar, but it shows Anke lining up inside the Belize Bank. When [...]

Still no bail for Orlando Vera; attorney wants judge off case
Forensic examiner Orlando Vera was back in court today as he continues to seek bail ahead of an appeal of his June first conviction for abetment to pervert the course [...]

G.S.U. menace Keith Yearwood, younger brother of Police Inspector
The Gang Suppression Unit is under fire once again, this time for allegedly beating up the younger brother of well-known Police Inspector Fitzroy Yearwood. On Thursday night, G.S.U. personnel on [...]

Family left battered, bruised and in fear
The entire ordeal was witnessed by Yearwood’s son who happened to also be in the area purchasing food at a nearby restaurant. Not only has the incident left him badly [...]

Vendors say Festival of Hope will shut them out
B.T.L. Park vendors are up in arms with the City Council. They say that the City Council went over their heads and made an agreement about the use of the [...]

Vendors can’t catch ear of CitCo
You heard Reneau say that they were never consulted and now they are being asked not to conduct business. The vendors are not happy about the situation and they have [...]

Edward Usher moved major cigarettes on a bus
Fifty-three-year old Edward Usher, a resident of Louisiana, Orange Walk was nabbed by police after he exited a bus at the entrance of Belize City earlier today. Acting on information, [...]

Teacher charged for sexual assault of minor student
Eric Mazin, a twenty-four-year-old teacher, has been charged by police with unlawful sexual intercourse with one of his female students, aged sixteen. According to police the incident happened when the [...]

D.H.S.: Abuse reports must be substantiated
The tragic death of thirteen-year-old Faye Lin Cannon under the supervision of her adoptive parents last Monday in San Pedro, has raised a myriad of questions about the role of [...]

Foreign embassies assist with DHS cases
In a case where the victim is a foreigner living in Belize, the department must communicate with the respective embassy, informing them that the child, or children, is in the [...]

Can Cannons’ adoptive father reunite with children?
Of interest is that Anke Doehm’s former husband, David Cannon, is presently in Belize seeking full custody of the three children. Cannon arrived in country shortly after receiving news of [...]

Onward, upward and together at last – the citrus industry
Citrus fruit production is Belize’s oldest agro-industry, but in profitability has long been overtaken by sugar and is barely keeping ahead of others. A combination of internal turmoil and shocks [...]

Interest high in Plant World Nursery
The Citrus Growers Association says it is finding greater than expected success in spinning off the Plant World Nursery, located off the Southern Highway in Red Bank village, into its [...]

Belize addresses itself to digital tourism market
The B.T.B. hosted its one day Digital Summit for a third consecutive year. The “digital marketing” event engages local tourism stakeholders for a day of learning through interactive and immersive [...]

The kids speak out
For this past week UNICEF has been engaging eighteen adolescents from across nine municipalities to learn more about the issues affecting their peers around the country. The adolescents, who sit [...]

‘Hard Rock’ to be honored at next Days of Healing
The forty-sixth Day of Healing, a massive community event celebrating the life of fallen disc jockey and social activist Andrew ‘Hard Rock’ Bennett takes place this weekend. A peace walk [...]

LOVE FM

David and Anke Doehm charged with cruelty to a child, remain behind bars
David and AnkeDoehm remain in a jail cell after they were arraigned today before Chief Magistrate Anne Marie Smith. The American couple suspected of causing the death of 13 year old Faye Lynn Cannon were charged for the crime, “cruelty to a child”. Since it is an indictable matter, no plea was taken. Despite their […]

Doehms’ attorney to seek bail
Expecting that bail would have been denied in the magistrate court, attorneys for David and Anke Cannon, Richard Bradley and Ellis Arnold began the paper work to apply for bail in the Supreme Court. Bradley says it is a matter for the Supreme Court to decide. Richard Bradley – Attorney “Myself and Mr.Arnold discussed and […]

Adoptive father of Cannon siblings seek custody
Thirteen year old Faye Lin Cannon has three sisters, all of whom were adopted by Anke Doehm and he ex-husband David Cannon. Cannon travelled to Belize after he learnt of Faye’s death. He has begun the paper work to get the custody of the remaining girls. His representative, Roberta Usher, spoke to the media. Roberta […]

Former FFB General Secretary seeks legal advise over dismissal
Michael Blease has sought legal advice to challenge the method used to dismiss him as the General Secretary of the Football Federation of Belize, F.F.B. Blease would not comment much but he told Love News that he received his dismissal letter this morning. Michael Blease – Former FFB General Secretary “At this time I have […]

FFB Congress still in the pipeline
In a letter date July 8, the football associations in the Orange Walk and Corozal districts along with the Premier League of Belize have asked that an extra ordinary congress be held. The request was made so the matter of dismals can be brought up and ventilated. They were calling on the dismissal of Michael […]

BSCFA says more information needed on proposed project
CEO of the Belize Sugar Cane farmers Association, Oscar Alonzo says they are not against the BSI/ASR’s Sugar Industry’s proposal to produce Direct Consumption Sugar. What they are concerned about are the conditions that BSI has for investing in the proposed project. Alonzo says they do not have many details on the proposed project but […]

Association of Justices of the Peace donates to the Ministry of Health
The Association of Justices of the Peace of the California Chapter in the USA and the Justices of the Peace and Commissioners of the Supreme Court of the Belize Chapter today donated over one thousand scrubs to the Ministry of Health. The scrubs are to be handed to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital and the […]

Marie Sharp wins awards in Germany
Marie Sharp hot pepper sauce has received two golden awards for two of their hot sauces in Germany. Today Marie Sharp, the lady responsible for the incomparable hot sauces told Love News that their distributors in Germany entered a Bar-B-Q festival in that country where they displayed samples of the various sauces produced by Marie […]

Forest Department looks to curb illegal logging
With the closure of the logging season, forest department in each district are taking measures to prevent and/or halt the illegal harvesting of these natural resources. In Punta Gorda, the Forest Department has begun put measures in place to deter these types of illegal activities. Paul Mahung reporting… “The logging season is closed and the […]

Amandala

Cartels have use for fake military uniforms
–Last Thursday, a Belizean man who lives close to the Belize-Mexico border was busted by police and BDF officers with close to 100 BDF uniforms. He was temporarily detained by police and released without any charges. Our newspaper grew concerned when we learnt that the man enjoyed cozy relationships with senior BDF officers, who enjoyed cozy relationships with ruling UDP politicians. Last Thursday, a Mexican national on his way to Mexico from Orange Walk Town was also busted with a bundle of BDF uniforms. When officers inquired where he had gotten them, he pointed to the Orange Walk residence of Sarco Torres. Police went to Torres’ house, where they found close to a hundred uniforms, and BDF boat engine parts inside his home. He and two men at his residence were detained.

I’m innocent; blame Immigration Department for the irregularities: Hon. Manuel Heredia, Jr.
For the first time last Wednesday, two sitting Cabinet Ministers made their appearance before the Senate Select Committee. Cabinet Ministers Anthony “Boots” Martinez and Edmond “Clear the Land” Castro provided the Senate Select Committee with testimonies that were seen by many as full of insolence and arrogance. Today, two other Cabinet Ministers, Rene Montero and Manuel Heredia Jr., appeared to testify before the Senate Select Committee after they were named in connection with major irregularities in Auditor General Dorothy Bradley’s Special Audit of the Immigration Department. Their presentations were civil, compared to that of their previous colleagues.

Arthur Saldivar owes Abdul Marin $3,300: General Legal Council
In 2013, community activist Abdul Marin, and PUP campaigner Herman Blease were seeking union representation for employees at the Kolbe Foundation, although the Laws of Belize (Chapter 304) do not allow for this. During those efforts, things got heated and Marin was accused of making some offensive allegations against John Woods, chairman of the Kolbe Foundation. This led to a libel suit which Marin lost. He was ordered to pay Woods in the vicinity of $40,000. However, he never made that payment because Woods pardoned him. Marin had contracted the services of Saldivar, who did not collect a penny to represent him.

he sad, sordid San Pedro story of Faye Lin
An American couple, David Doehm, 56, and his wife Anke Doehm, 56, both residents of San Pedro, appeared in front of Chief Magistrate Ann Marie Smith, along with their attorneys, to be arraigned on a charge of cruelty to a child. The couple was remanded to prison after a submission by Director of Public Prosecutions Cheryl-Lynn Vidal, S.C., who objected to the court granting the couple bail on the grounds that they are flight risks. When the hearing began, and Chief Magistrate Smith asked Anke Doehm how she was pleading, DPP Vidal rose to inform the court that the case is a very serious one and will be heard on indictment. So no plea was taken from the two. The allegation against the two is that between January 1, 2017 and July 3, 2017, they endangered the welfare of Faye Lin Cannon, 13.

Hammon Lemoth, 23, succumbs to 2 gunshot wounds in the head
After spending the last 50 days fighting for his life after being shot twice in the head, Ontario resident Hammon Lemoth, 23, is dead. According to a relative, he died at around 11 o’clock this morning while receiving medical attention at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH). A source close to Lemoth’s family told us that he had been released from the KHMH on Tuesday, but was re-admitted last night after his blood sugar level collapsed dramatically. On the night of May 23, Lemoth was shot twice in the head when a gunman entered his workplace at LD’s barbershop on Central American Boulevard in Belize City. The injuries caused him to lose his motor skills, which caused him to lose the ability to care for himself.

Belize teen girl saved from human traffickers
The Immigration Department has long warned Belizeans against leaving the country through unregulated border crossings, especially along the Orange Walk border, which leads to Botes, Mexico. Today, the Senator representing the Non-Governmental Community, Osmany Salas, recounted a case of suspected human trafficking which would have been successful if authorities had not acted swiftly. He recounted that last night, a woman informed him that her teenage daughter had run away from home. He revealed that the worried mother was able to ascertain that her daughter had crossed the border at Botes, along with several other girls who had all been in the company of an unidentified man and woman.

Belize’s Warriors FC (Rush Belize) playing big in Colorado, USA
Our Belize U-13 football ambassadors, Warriors FC (Rush Belize) are giving very good account of themselves in the Rush Fest tournament in Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA. The team left Belize on Saturday afternoon (not Sunday, as we mistakenly indicated in our Tuesday issue.). Starting on Monday of this week, the team has played 3 games so far, winning two by convincing scores of 8-0 and 9-2, but lost today, 2-0. Daniel Fabro is the director of the club, with head coach Santi Valencia, coaches, Wilmore Staine and Julius Allen, and assistant coach Dmitri Fabro. The 15 players on the team are from different districts.

Cricket News – Excellence vs Summer Fever in cricket finals
The Belize National Cricket Association (BNCA) reported today on the latest action in the Harrison Parks National Cricket Competition 2017. Following is that report: The cricket match (game two of the semifinals) between Excellence of Double Head Cabbage and Brilliant of Crooked Tree was completed on Sunday, July 9, in Double Head Cabbage. Brilliant batted a total of 207 runs. Calbert Reynolds top scored with 65 runs, and Lawrence Banner took three wickets. Excellence batted a total of 210 with 8 wickets fallen; but the last wicket was at bat, as Excellence had one player short. Kenroy Roca top scored for Excellence with 37 runs, and Ian Broaster took 2 wickets.

BDFA Interoffice football under way
The Belize District Football Association (BDFA) Interoffice Football Tournament 2017 kicked off last night at the MCC Grounds with two games played. In the opener, Deportivo Los Alcones won, 1-0, over Ramada Eco Nature, on a goal by David Lopez (58’). And in the nightcap, Fiscal Attraction FC dropped Tourist Village Tennants, 3-2, with a goal apiece from Douglas Bowen (15’), Michael Hernandez (34’) and Kendice Williams (51’); while Tourist Village got a goal each from Nuri Garbutt (22’) and Hector Martinez (26’). Tonight’s games feature Tourist Village/Transparent BPO FC vs BTL at 7:30 p.m., followed by Belize City Council vs Latino FC.

“In the Paint” – Interoffice basketball round-up
The Kings utilized a 28 to 13 third-quarter run to overcome an 11-point first-half deficit, eventually winning by the final score of 85-74 over BTL last Friday night in the nightcap game of Interoffice Basketball, at the St. Martin De Porres Swift Hall Auditorium. Kings’ Jacob Leslie knocked down five threes on his way to a 29-point night, while leading his team to the big come-from-behind victory. Down at the conclusion of first-half play, Leslie made scoring his very clear goal in the second half. Farron Louriano added 25 points 7 rebounds on 6 of 13 from the field. Meanwhile, BTL’s Lennox Bowman finished with 26 points on 9 of 24 from the field, while his teammate, Jason Vasquez contributed 13 points in the loss.

Editorial: The storming of the Bastille – July 14, 1789
For the last 48 years at Kremandala we have been stewards of a process which has sought to enlighten the Belizean people about important and relevant issues. We did not think that 48 years after the establishment of this newspaper, the education system of this country would be as backward and repressive as it is. That’s the bad news. The good news is that, with minority support from the Belizean people, Kremandala has sustained a process which allows for the airing and discussion of, yes, important and relevant issues. In the two twentieth century world wars (1914-1918 and 1939-1945), the British and the French were allies, but for all the nine centuries before that, leading up to the time of Napoleon Bonaparte in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, the British and the French were, most often, blood enemies. A mere twenty six miles of the English Channel separated the British island from the French European mainland, but those twenty six miles probably saved Britain from Napoleon’s France.

From the Publisher
At the time, the Battle of St. George’s Caye did not seem to be that big a deal because no one knew that it would be the last major attack on the settlement of Belize by the Spanish viceroyalty in the Yucatan. The reason why the skirmish in September of 1798 was the last such Spanish offensive was because of what was happening in Europe, beginning with the French Revolution in 1789, and what was happening in the Caribbean, beginning with the Haitian Revolution in 1791. The storming of the Bastille prison by the French masses in Paris on July 14, 1789, led to a social transformation in France which unleashed serious energies. For whatever it was worth, a man of the people, so to speak, rose to military power in France and ended up actually declaring himself Emperor of France in 1804. He was a Corsican by the name of Napoleon Bonaparte, and one of the reasons he became a legend was because he fought on the battlefield along with his soldiers. The French army became the most fearsome in Europe, so much so that by 1808 Napoleon was able to place one of his brothers, Joseph, on the Spanish throne.

Ending the appointed Senate …
Dear Editor, Whoever has been championing the elected Senate (an essential part of the republican system) must be careful that their grinning lips don’t split all the way around and join at the back of their heads, for that would be a decapitation. Effectively, the disrespect showed our “parliamentary” Senate by the two Ministers, Martinez and Castro, disrespect that went unchecked, put an end to the appointed Senate in Belize. We should dismantle this thing now, cut the charade and move on. Pity the knife that turns on itself. Of course, Martinez and Castro will never see the insides of Cabinet again, not via the republican system, the new vehicle they just ushered into town. All hail the new system in Belize! Carla and Godwin should pack their bags and go, before they are ordered to do so.

San Pedro Ambergris Caye: two distinct, different communities!
Over the years power on the island of San Pedro Ambergris Caye has slowly been transferred from the local San Pedranos to the foreign white-dominated expatriate elite. They have become to the island, what the British colonial government was to the then, colony of Belize. Through the control of the lucrative tourism industry, they have managed to garnish the most prized real estate and virtually dominate the financial atmosphere of the island. In so doing, as money has done in every other economy, they have wrestled away power from the locals. The foreign elite in San Pedro over the years have become more and more untouchable, for the simple fact that they control the economy. They have managed to divide the island into two distinct different communities. One, the playground for the rich tourists and well-to-do Belizeans, and the other part for the dirt poor residents who cater to their needs. The structure is such that it is almost impossible for those at the poorest levels of the economic totem pole to work themselves out of poverty because the cost of living is so high. This is because even though San Pedro remains a huge tax base for the nation because of the huge influx of much needed foreign currency, it is offered little or no relief to alleviate the tax burden on the ordinary citizen. It is incomprehensible that a community that gives so much to the nation, is offered so little in return to improve their standard of living.

A call for peace to the Belizean black youth!
The Garifuna International Indigenous Film Festival (GIIFF) is the only living cultural film festival in the United States that is founded and produced by a Garifuna Belizean woman, Freda Sideroff. And last night in the premiering and screening of yours truly’s documentary film on the Belize gang crisis called, “Abdul Marin Nunez and the Belize Gang Crisis”, it was revealed to me in some of the most moving and spiritual ways, the passionate work that goes into this annual visual arts masterpiece. Film festivals like this are a medium through which the visual artist protests and resists against all forms of oppression so as to bring the struggle of a people and cause to the forefront of an audience who may not necessarily know. It provides a humble outlet of expression to the voiceless and the marginalized peoples of the world who cannot find a place in the mainstream media. It is service to the underserved of a nation. It is a powerful non-violent weapon for the cultural and political activist.

RIGHT TO THE POINT: Domestic violence! How is it dealt with under our law?
There is so much to write about violence, because from my little perch and over four decades of life in my little Belize… I have seen where we have become a very violent society and where in all forms, forums, and facets of our daily lives we have become violent to each other. Sadly, too often we have become so accustomed to or immune to violence that we are comfortable in it. The violence against us by gun may just be the extreme, since we experience social violence by our political leaders, sometimes subtle and sometimes not so subtle. The attacks and rudest and most violent of conduct by the supposedly “honourable” Ministers Castro and Boots are just a perfect example of the blatant violence our political leaders display against us… but more importantly against us women. Then there is the subtle violence of denying us better health care, educational access, social services, etc. because of the mismanagement of our funds by handouts and political bribes that keep the masses dependent and abused… that is called financial violence.

New Zika research finds virus in 5% of donor blood samples in Belize
According to the Zika update published by UNICEF on July 10, although the trend of reported new cases in Central America continues to decrease, Belize is an exception. The anomaly here might be the result of a changing testing regimen, which has seen more samples sent to neighboring Mexico for analysis, and a spike in Zika cases in northern Belize recorded since last November. Previously, Belize, unable to test for Zika in-country, had accessed limited testing assistance for high-risk cases from the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) in Trinidad and Tobago. Beyond the assistance from Mexico, a medical alliance of professionals from the USA has teamed up with officials here under a 5-year project intended to study Zika and other arbo-viruses in Belize, namely Dengue and Chikungunya. According to Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero, donated blood collected from the various regional hospitals (reflecting samples from across Belize) was tested as a part of the exercise and Zika was found at a prevalence of 5% – near the prevalence rate of the wider Belize population.

District hardest hit by unemployment also sees biggest rise in property crimes
The Police Department has released the mid-year major crime statistics, and our analysis of the data has revealed that the district which currently reports the highest unemployment rate of 13% (according to a recent release by the Statistical Institute of Belize) is also the district which saw the highest increase in property crimes for the first half of this year. According to the official police data, Stann Creek saw spikes in all three crime categories: robbery, burglary and theft, even as other districts, such as Toledo and Orange Walk, saw notable declines. Nationally, property crimes increased from 2015 to 2016 but fell from 2016 to 2017. We note that the fall in property crimes for January to June 2017, when compared to the same period last year, was 26%, while the fall in personal crimes: murder, rape and unlawful sexual intercourse, was 12%.

“I don’t know the Harmouchs”, said Minister Montero
ayo Central area representative, Rene Montero, today testified before the Senate Select Committee tasked with investigating the Auditor General Dorothy Bradley’s Special Audit of the Immigration Department which documented major irregularities and illegalities. Montero was named in relation to the shady issuance of nationality certificates to two Lebanese individuals —Saad Harmouch and Wael Harmouch, based in San Pedro Town, which falls within the Belize Rural South constituency. When the committee asked why was it that he had recommended the two persons for nationality certificates even though they were not his constituents, Montero used the Immigration Department as his scapegoat. His explanations left our newspaper with more questions than answers regarding election fraud and the politicization of our public institutions.

Faye Lin’s adoptive mother and husband charged with cruelty to a child
Yesterday, Wednesday, July 12, David and Anke Doehm were arrested and charged with “cruelty to a child” in connection with the death of 13-year-old Faye Lin Cannon, which occurred while the child was in their care. The young girl was found dead on her bed on the morning of July 3, and a post-mortem examination on July 6 certified the cause of her death as compression on the chest causing internal hemorrhage, and sexual and physical abuse. The compression was of such force that it caused three of her ribs to break, one of which punctured her heart. The charges were brought on indictment, which means the trial will take place at the Supreme Court. This announcement was made yesterday by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution.

The Reporter

Toddler drowns in pit latrine
A baby of the Maya Mopan area, Belmopan fell into an outdoor pit latrine and drowned. The incident happened shortly before 5:30 p.m., on Thursday, when the little girl, 17-month-old Teresa Coy went missing. Her mother, Teresa Teul, 26, told police that the baby was […]

Man shot 7 weeks ago dies
A man who was shot in the head over seven weeks ago has died of the gunshot injury. 23-year-old Hammon Lemoth, a barber, succumed on Thursday morning. Lemoth was cutting a client’s hair inside One Love barber shop on Central American Boulevard on May 23, […]

Taiwan waives visa restrictions for friendly nations
In a move to solidify its relationship with Caribbean allies, the Republic of China (Taiwan) announced this week that it would relax visa restrictions for 10 friendly nations. Residents of Belize, the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and […]

CARICOM supports Belize against Guatemala at Heads of Government conference
Belize received unanimous support from leaders from throughout the Caribbean community (CARICOM) who attended the 38th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in St George’s, Grenada last week. The CARICOM leaders reiterated their support for the sovereignty, […]

BECOL breaks ground for new headquarters
An official ground breaking ceremony was held last Thursday at the Xuana Vista Estate at mile 69 on the George Price highway to mark the site of the future headquarters of the Belize Electric Company Ltd. (BECOL). The hydroelectric company’s headquarter building is at the design stage […]

Twelve participants complete solar maintenance course
Twelve participants form all over the country have successfully completed an eight-day Solar Care Taking course, hosted by Solar Energy Solutions Belize (SESB). SESB hosted the training course at the company’s show system in Teakettle Village, from June 26 to July 6. SESB customized the training for […]

Roads damaged by recent rains refurbished and reopened
Two roads that were made impassable by the effects of the recent rains have been refurbished and reopened to vehicular traffic. Two weeks ago, a flash flood that swept through western Belize washed away a portion of the Calla Creek/Bullet Tree access road in the […]

New bus terminal, vehicle registration and drivers licensing system coming soon
Drivers across the country will soon have a new vehicle registration and drivers licensing system to complement a new bus terminal to facilitate buses from all over Belize in the coming months. This week, Minister of Transport, Edmond Castro discussed the two projects with the […]

American Heart Association says coconut oil is unhealthy
Coconut oil has, for years, been the most popular cooking oil for Belizeans, because of its rich taste, as well as what past studies have shown – that it is good for human consumption. Perhaps as popular as its taste, coconut oil has been the […]

PACT and UB partners to offer scholarship opportunities
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between the University of Belize (UB) and the Protected Area Conservation Trust (PACT) on Monday, July 10, in order to provide five Bachelors scholarship to qualified students. The implementation of the scholarship opportunity valued at $50,000 is geared at enhancing […]

Teen boy executed in San Pedro Town
. San Pedro police are investigating the murder of 16-year-old Julian Tun who was executed on Saturday night just hours after he arrived on the island to visit a female friend. Around 11:00 p.m on July 8, multiple shots rang out on Sea Grapes Drive in front of […]

Driver to be charged in weekend RTA
After days of investigation, police have issued a notice of intended prosecution (NIP) to the driver in a fatal road traffic accident that occurred on the Philip Goldson Highway over the weekend. Police announced on Tuesday that they are seeking to lay charges against Anthony Humes, a […]

Guatemalan bandit killed by police in carjacking attempt
A failed carjacking attempt has led to the death of a Guatemalan national and gunshot injuries to another after they were engaged in a shootout with Belizean authorities over the weekend. The men, both residents of Melchor De Mencos, Guatemala, have been identified as 37-year-old Ervin Rene […]

Editorial
In our last week’s Editorial we did not intend to infer that the Ministry of Education was not doing a good job in educating the young men and women entrusted to its care. We said what we intended to say: that the Ministry has not been able to improve the […]

Suspected child killers charged with ‘cruelty’
Anke and David Doehm, the Americans accused of killing their adopted daughter in San Pedro, were charged with ‘cruelty to a child’ in relation to the death of 13-year-old Faye Lin Cannon on Thursday and were remanded to the Belize Central Prison, while the murder […]

Defense Ministry not bothered by BDF equipment in civilian hands
Neither the Belize Defense Force nor the Ministry of Defense is conducting any investigation into how a Mexican national and an Orange Walk resident came into possession of almost 100 BDF uniforms and other BDF equipment. Both the BDF and the Ministry have said that […]

Cops bust 25 lbs of weed in BPMS van
Orange Walk police, based on intelligence gathered by the department, made a bust of 25 pounds of marijuana being transported by a Belize Package and Mail Service (BPMS) driver in one of the popular courier service’s company vans this week. Thirty-one-year-old Jose Garcia, the driver […]

Two more ministers before Senate Committee
Two more seated Cabinet ministers testified before the Senate Special Select Committee this week: Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Manuel Heredia Jr., and Minister of Works, Rene Montero. The ministers took the witness stand on Wednesday to answer for recommendations they made for nationality, […]

Murders, major crime down, says ComPol; but so are arrests
The crime statistics for 2017, at least up to the end of June, show that major crimes are down, compared to the end of June, 2016. The Commissioner of Police, Allen Whylie, shared the numbers with the media on Tuesday, and his boss, Minister of […]

Breaking Belize News

Belmopan infant drowns in toilet
According to police reports, last night around 6:30, Belmopan Police visited the Western Regional Hospital where officers saw the body of 17-month-old Teresa Coy. Investigations have revealed that around 5:00 p.m. Coy, along with other family members were at their house in Maya Mopan playing when baby Teresa reportedly left their sight.

Faye Lin Cannon’s adopted father launches custody battle for remaining siblings
Following the death of Faye Lin Cannon, her adopted mother and step-father have been remanded to the Hattieville prison. However, Faye’s three other siblings remain in the care of the Ministry of Human Development. Information to BBN is that the Ministry is allowed to keep them for the next three months.

Police report fatal traffic accident on Southern highway
According to police reports, there was a fatal Road traffic accident around 12:40 a.m. today. The accident occurred between miles 37-38 on the Southern Highway.

Popular Orange Walk bar robbed
Last night, La Nueva Nostalgia Bar in Orange Walk town was robbed of $2,500. According to the owner, Isis Sanchez, two men entered the establishment and one of them was armed with a gun.

Gunshot victim succumbs after 50 days
Belize City cops are currently investigating another case of murder. That is because Hammon Lemoth, 23, died on Thursday morning. After close to 50 days of fighting for his life, he passed away just before midday at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital yesterday.

PUP Leader calls for investigation into BDF uniforms
Leader of the PUP, John Briceno is calling for an investigation into the discovery of uniforms belonging to the Belize Defense Force in a home in Orange Walk town. According to reports, the Ministry of Defense sent the uniforms to the Ministry of Finance for destruction. Some of the uniforms were also found with a Mexican who was heading to Botes from Belize.

PUP leader says DPP should charge ministers
Yesterday, Leader of the People’s United Party, John Briceno told 7 News that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) needs to investigate criminal charges to be brought against the ministers who have testified thus far in the ongoing Senate hearings.

Shyne gearing up for Mesop run
Political aspirant for the Mesopotamia Division, Shyne Barrow, son of prime Minister Dean Barrow, said this week that the has been actively doing the groundwork in the constituency in preparation for the next general elections. Barrow said that apart from walking the division everyday, he is spearheading registration for residents who have become of legal voting age; and has already registered about 30 residents. Barrow has also secured new backboards for the basketball court on Euphrates Street, and is planning on holding a basketball tournament there next Saturday.

ASR Group to combat incoming sugar industry issues with productivity
The American Sugar Refineries (ASR) Group, owners of Belize Sugar Industries (BSI), is planning on using increased productivity to combat the low world price of sugar and Belize’s loss of preferential European markets later this year. Vice President of International Relations for the ASR Group, Mac McLachlan, explained that Belize already has an advantage above many sugar producers in the region because the country produces direct consumption sugar (DCS), which can be sold directly into the market without any further refining.

Blogs

Beautiful bites, a delicious way to eradicate an invasive species!
Eat Lionfish you might ask?! Yes, and they are delicious! Once you dispose of the spines, there is no risk of envenomation, and you’re free to prepare your lionfish as you choose. Lionfish have moist, buttery meat that is often compared to hogfish and grouper. The mild taste and flakey texture allow the fish to be prepared in a wide variety of different ways. From raw to deep fried, grilled to blackened, Lionfish dishes are bound to fit anyone’s taste. By eating Lionfish, you’re not only treating yourself to a new, tasty dish, but also doing your part to help save native reef fish from this voracious predator. Not to mention it’s good for you! Did you know Lionfish have proven to be high in Omega 3 fats, which play a crucial role in brain function and may reduce the risk of heart disease.

First Day of the National Corn Festival 2017 held in Corozal
National Cornfest is A festival designed to celebrate culture, music, the best of Belize in traditional and modern twist on the main foods, corn, coconut, BBQ, meat, fire, beers, live music, Competitions:Latin dance competition Coconut huxing, Corn on the Cob, Tacos Eating, BBQ and Creole, unusual games, bartender faceoff, parade and pageantry.

Videos

TEDx Belmopan - Launch of 2017 Event, 32min.

Airbender YOGA Studio - Introduction to Pilates, 19min.

Grace & You - Grace Mi Crazy Shrimp (Jamaican Jerk Style), 31min.

BTB Virtual Expo, 32min.

Joyful 2 Concert, 23min.

Pallotti Convent, 24min.

Belize Now | Episode 26 - Friday, July 14th, min. In tonight’s headlines: The Hummingbird Highway is being upgraded, The Attorney General talks anti-corruption, Belizean youths are consulted, Crime is down in 2017, and the Social Investment Fund takes a tour down south. These stories and more on this week’s edition of Belize Now. Thanks for joining us on this Friday, July 14th, 2017!

Barracuda Catch and Cook Fail in Belize, 18min. On this of catch and cook I decided to visit the island of ambergris caye in Belize. I originally went after a Great Barracuda, but quickly changed to a tasty .

Fishing Belize, 17min. Had an awesome week fishing off the coast of Belize. This should be on every anglers bucket list. Before you go make sure and contact capt George Bradley. On my second day in Belize I went fishing with capt George Bradley. He put me on one of the largest Bonefish I have ever caught. This place is truly paradise . Witt joins friend and fellow fishing guide Will Flack in the pursuit of tarpon, bonefish and permit in the crystal clear waters of San Pedro, Belize. This video documentary is about the sustainable fisheries initiatives underway in Belize that employ various management tools, such as rights-based .

Belize 2017, 10min. Our first Scuba Diving Trip to San Pedro, Belize!

BELIZE TRIP 2017, 4min. My family and I took a trip to Belize, Central America this summer. Here's some footage from it. Enjoy! :)

kids swimming with sharks in Belize, 1min.

Catch and Cook Caribbean Style Snapper in Belize, 17min. On this of catch and cook I decided to visit the island of ambergris caye in Belize. I originally went after a Great Barracuda, but quickly changed to a tasty .

Belize Travel Video Guide | Ambergris Caye, 6.5min. I spent the last 5 days in Belize learning about the culture, eating great food, and experiencing world class fishing. This should be a bucket list item for everyone.

The Belize Lobster Fest - San Pedro Lobster Fest 2017, 6min. On Friday June, 23rd, 2017 I took a spontaneous trip upon last minute to check out the San Pedro Lobster festival for the first time ever. I Spent the Friday and Saturday there. The video attached below shows my journey from San Ignacio to San Pedro. It doesn't go into much details as to what the San Pedro Lobster Fest is or all the activities, but I've written most of the details in this blog. I hope you find it insightful.

Manatee in Belize, 1/4min. An awesome experience swimming with manatees in Belize. This was a large male.

Tarpon feed Belize, 2min.

Swimming with Sharks and Stingrays! Exploring The Beautiful Clear Ocean!, 13min. Come with me as I discover what lies in the beautiful clear waters of Belize! I get to swim with Sharks! Stingrays! and many tropical fishes!

July 14, 2017

The news will be a bit brief for the next week or so due to time constraints

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

The San Pedro Sun

David and Anke Doehm charged with ‘Cruelty to a Child’; Investigations continue into Faye Lin Cannon’s murder
American couple David and Anke Doehm have been formally arrested and charged for the crime of Cruelty to a Child. They also remain the prime suspects in the death of 13-year-old Faye Lin Cannon, Anke’s adoptive daughter. Faye died on Monday, July 3rd inside the Doehms apartment north of San Pedro Town. At first, her death was treated as ‘Sudden Death,’ but then the results of the post-mortem revealed that she had been physically and sexually abused, and the coroner listed her cause of death ‘due to compression on the chest, causing internal haemorrhaging’. The Doehms were arrested on Thursday, July 6th and kept at the San Pedro Police Station. On Tuesday, July 11th, they were transported off the island to the mainland, where they were jointly charged on Wednesday, July 12th.

BTB records brisk growth path in overnight tourism arrivals
On Wednesday, July 12th, the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) released the latest figures on overnight tourism arrivals for 2017. Once again, the BTB registers a positive trend for the first half of this year, maintaining a steady, brisk growth path. The latest statistics show that the month of April registered the highest overnight arrivals (24.2%) compared to the same month last year, followed closely by June, with a 10% growth. There was also an overall growth of 7.8% in tourism overnight arrivals for the second quarter of 2017. BTB states that this a clear affirmation that Belize continues to attract an increasing number of travelers as a ‘must-visit’ destination.

Costa Maya Festival presents: Miss El Salvador, Iris Yazmin Guerra
With the announcement of Miss El Salvador Iris Yazmin Guerra, the International Costa Maya Festival® Committee has a full line-up of beauties to vie for the title of Reina de La Costa Maya 2017-2018. 22-year-old Guerra is currently a student at the La Univesidad Catolica de Occidente, pursuing a degree in Business Administration. Guerra now joins Miss Belize Michelle Estrella Nuñez, Miss Costa Rica Glennys Medina Segura, Miss Guatemala Lesly Fernanda Flores Sagastume, Miss Honduras Kerelyne Isell Campigoti Webster, Miss Mexico Ximena Cardoso Gutiérrez, Miss Nicaragua Danielle Nicole Hodgson Joseph and Miss Panama Maria Fernanda Jaspe.

Young Belizean footballers participate in U.S summer soccer camp
Warriors F.C, A Belizean youth football club, attended international youth soccer camp Rush Fest in Colorado Springs, Colorado in the United States. The team, comprising of 16 young footballers between the ages of 12-13, played their first game on Monday, July 10th, comfortably defeating a team from Michigan USA, 8-0. Considered at-risk youth, it was the Belizean athletes’ first visit to the U.S. According to Country Director Daniel Fabro, it is expected that this experience will promote the physical and mental well-being the athletes. “This soccer camp aims to provide the finest soccer experience possible, by teaching the fundamental skills of the game and developing athletes through organization,” he said. ”The entire experience will be life-changing for these youth, most of whom come from challenging backgrounds.” Warriors F.C continued playing against other teams throughout the week, with the camp concluding on Friday, July 14th in grand ceremony.

Henry Jemmott promoted to Superintendent of police
On Wednesday July 6th, Henry Jemmott was officially promoted to Superintendent of Police. Jemmott had been acting as Officer in Charge of the Coastal Executive Unit since November of 2016 under the title of Assistant Superintendent. He took over from Superintendent Sandra Bowden after her transfer to the Belize Police Department Headquarters in Belmopan City. Jemmott has been stationed in San Pedro Town since June of 2014, and has been instrumental in the operations and community relations building of the San Pedro Police Department. Originally from Dangriga Town in southern Belize, Jemmott has 17 years of police experience and is looking forward to continue working with the community. “We have been working hard to decrease the crime activities in this area. We are working hard to make Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker safer for residents and visitors,” said Jemmott. He indicated that there is much work to be done and categorized the crime of burglary as the prevailing crime so far.

SESB – Training Belizean Solar Caretakers
SESB (Solar Energy Solutions Belize) provided an eight-day SOLAR CARETAKING TRAINING course. It was held between Monday, June 26th and Thursday, 6th, July, 2017 and took place at SESB show system in Teakettle, Village. The need for trained personnel in the area of solar system maintenance sparked the idea to seek funds for the development of the course. It resulted in collaboration with the interdepartmental platform of the Swiss Federal Office – REPIC (Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Promotion in International Cooperation) and partners ZENNA from Switzerland and CDW STIFTUNG from Germany. The aim of the course was to provide Basic Solar Caretaker training customized for people handling solar systems on a daily basis. Topics included learning about system components, maintenance and troubleshooting of solar systems. The 12 successful participants from all over Belize received a SESB-Certificate at the end of the eightday training.

Ambergris Today

DPP Describes Faye Lin Cannon’s Medical Report As “Something Out Of A Horror Story”
Bruises were observed on Faye’s arms and legs when she was discovered inside the Doehm’s condo on Ambergris Caye, Belize. A post mortem examination revealed that she had been physically and sexually abused. Director of Public Prosecution, Cheryl Lynn Vidal, states that the Doehms have not been charged for the murder of Faye Lin because evidence is lacking. “But we did not feel that is was appropriate for us to ignore other charges that could have possibly been laid,” stated Vidal to Belize City media. “And one of them is definitely ‘Cruelty of a Child’. And so we decided that while the investigation into the death is ongoing we would proceed with this one since we have sufficient evidence.”

Belize Coast Guard’s Almita Pinelo Makes History In Mexico
Lieutenant Almita Pinelo of the Belize Coast Guard is the first female ever to attend and graduate from the Universidad Naval, Centro de Studios Superiors Navales (Naval University) in Mexico City in the course of Especialidad de Mando Naval’ (Naval Command Specialty). Almita graduated from a 6-month course along with 81 other male naval officers. “The last three weeks have been so essential and important to my career as a woman in the military,” stated Almita Pinelo in a Facebook Post. She had the honor of being nominated by the William J. Perry Center For Hemispheric Defense Studies to represent Belize as a panelist under the topic of Inclusive Security.

Belize Announces Overnight Tourism Arrivals On Brisk Growth Path
The trend of overnight arrivals remained positive through the first six months of 2017, with 7.8% growth in overnight arrivals overall, and 10% growth in the month of June. June 2017 had the highest arrival total for a June month in history, with over 37,600 overnight visitors. Over the past 5 years, overnight arrivals in June have rivaled the figures seen in the high season month of January. This trend suggests a possible expansion of the number of months that are traditionally recognized as high season months for tourism in Belize.

Misc Belizean Sources

Reef Radio radio telethon Friday
Telethon this morning in support of Raise Me Up and their efforts to complete a children's home for Ambergris Caye. Pledge your support to assist a worthy cause and help prevent any more child neglect and abuse in our community. Reef Radio has allowed us to do a good ol' fashioned radio telethon Friday, July 14! Our goal? $10,000BZ. Help us to achieve our goal! And please share to spread the word! If you want to get involved for the children's home and don't know how, tune into Reef Radio and Reef TV Friday! Then call in to 226-4054 to pledge whatever amount you can donate. EVERY dollar helps! We will have volunteers driving around town to meet you to pick up your pledges. Let's show everyone what the San Pedro community is all about!

Caye Caulker Health Fair
The Caye Caulker Health Fair is today, to be held in front of CCVC office from 9:00 am to 3:00p.m. Brodies will be here displaying various products and conducting free glucose and blood pressure reading, Belize Medical Associates will be here with Dr. Cawich, internist, and Dr. Abdallah pediatrician along with their lab facitites. Smart will also be doing a double up, please stop in next week Friday. Please feel free to come check the fair out.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Announces Launch of New Diaspora of Belize Website
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is pleased to announce the launch of a new Diaspora of Belize website. The new site offers a fresh new look, easier navigation, comprehensive information, and links to other relevant authorities and institutions. The Ministry’s main goal in designing this new site is to facilitate the gathering of information on skills, experiences, and interests of Belizeans living in and legitimate Belizean organizations operating out of the Belizean Diaspora, and to engage them in contributing to the development of Belize primarily through investment and repatriation of skills. Additionally, the site will serve as a one-stop shop for the diaspora community to access information on investment and other opportunities and development initiatives in Belize.

Optimism in the Citrus Industry
A meeting was held on Monday, July 10th, 2017 at the Conference Room of the Ministry of Agriculture between the Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Godwin Hulse, along with his executive team and representatives of the Citrus Growers Association and Belize Citrus Mutual. The meeting was as the result of a joint request of the Citrus Growers Association and the Belize Citrus Mutual. The purpose of the meeting was to apprise the officials of the Ministry on the ongoing collaboration between the Belize Citrus Mutual and the Citrus Growers Association, to discuss the performance of the 2016 – 2017 crop, the progress being made in managing the Huanglongbing (HLB) disease, the issues facing the industry such as labour and access to affordable capital and the need to develop a strategic plan for the industry. The meeting discussed the outturn of the 2016 – 2017 crop, noting that despite Hurricane Earl which accounted for an estimated loss of 569k boxes of orange, the industry produced 3.2m boxes of oranges in 2016 – 2017 as compared to 3.25m boxes of orange in the 2015 – 2016 crop year.

NATIONAL CORN, COCONUT & BBQ FESTIVAL 2017
It all starts today Friday, July 14 at 5:00 p.m. at Rainbow Beach/Park. There will be no cover charge to visit the booths but there will be a $5.00 token to attend the dance. It is the Biggest Cultural event in Corozal. The action will continue on Saturday, July 15 from 9:00 in the morning until 2:00 a.m. and on Sunday, July 16 from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Cover charge at the gate on Saturday and Sunday - $3 Adult & $1 Children. Do enjoy and we welcome you to Corozal to have a wonderful and pleasant stay.

National Corn Coconut and BBQ Festival
NATIONAL CORN FESTIVAL GROUNDS...RAINBOW BEACH...its the beach nearest to the Corozal Civic Center. where Old Gov. Rest House and Lands Office used to be. (Its the Original Beach Part beach :-) back in the day.)

Belize Zoo Conservation Camp Concludes
The Belize Zoo's 24th annual Conservation Camp has finished. The lucky kids had an amazing time. "For the 24th year running, another super successful Conservation Camp was held last week at our Tropical Education Center. 21 bright young Belizeans joined us on an exciting adventure to explore and celebrate our country's natural heritage, and learn ways to become better stewards of it for years to come! TBZ would like to thank all our partners and colleagues who joined in to make last week such a memorable experience. And, of course, our campers and their parents/guardians who participated this year. We are already planning exciting new experiences for next year for the Silver Jubilee of 'Zoo Camp' at 25!"

Belize at the South Florida Trade Show
The BTB Travel Trade team encouraging travels to Belize at the South Florida (American Society of Travel Agents) Trade Show 2017.

Miss Costa Maya 2017 hosts announced
Popular San Pedro TV/radio personality and Reef Radio owner Eiden Salazar returns to co-host Miss Costa Maya 2017. No stranger to the Costa Maya stage, Salazar has hosted the pageant for a number of years. This time he will be assisted by the beautiful Tanya Arceo. Arceo was born in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye and raised in Benque Viejo del Carmen, Cayo. Arceo recently graduated in Guatemala with a degree in Broadcasting. She has had the opportunity to work with and learn from long-time professionals at Guatevision, such as Maria Luisa Gomez. This has allowed her to develop in a field in which she is very passionate about. “For me it is a real honor to be part of Miss Costa Maya International. THANK YOU for this opportunity and for trusting in my ability and talent,” she said. Salazar and Arceo will join forces to make Miss Costa Maya International 2017’s pageant final, the festival’s 25th anniversary scheduled to take place in San Pedro on August 3rd, one to remember for the next 25 years and beyond.

Paradise Theater playing this weekend:
Gifted, Unforgettable, Scoobhy Doo Blowout Beach Bash, Going in Style.

Channel 7

Doehms To Court For Child Cruelty, DPP Fights To Get Them Remanded
Tonight, after 8 days of being investigated for the death of their daughter, the Americans David and Anke Doehm are at the Belize Central Prison. They were arraigned this evening before Chief Magistrate Ann Marie Smith on the charge of "cruelty to a child". DPP Cheryl-Lynn Vidal has reviewed all the evidence that the police have gathered in the questionable death of 13 year-old Faye Lin Cannon, and she is convinced that her office can prove that the child's parents were criminally negligent in their care of her. It's the first offense that they're facing, which holds them somehow responsible for Faye Lin's death.

Original Adoptive Father Wants Custody Of Faye's Sisters
So, while Faye and David Doehm are at the Prison, the 3 other adopted daughters are in the care of the Ministry of Human Development, which is being assisted by the US Embassy. We have learned that their adoptive father, David Cannon, is in Belize, and he is trying to gain custody of the girls, insisting that he can provide better care for them. He shares parental rights with Anke Doehm, and at this point, he is only allowed visitation. David Doehm is the adopted stepdad to the children, and with the death of Faye Lin, the original adoptive father believes that he should have full custody of the children.

Barber Dies 7 Weeks After Being Shot In Head
51 days ago on May 23rd, 23 year old Hammon Lemoth was shot inside 'One Love' barber shop on Central American Boulevard. Lemoth was trimming a client when a gunman barged in and opened fire. Lemoth was hit to the head by one of nine bullets. That was over 7 weeks ago - and despite the shot to the head, Lemoth survived. That battle to recovery was a struggle - since he had lost part of his brain. And Lemoth lost that fight at 11:00 this morning. This evening his mother told us what is keeping her strong in the face of this loss. Courtney Weatherburne - Reporter: "Could you shed any light as to what happened that night in May?" Clara Salman, Mother of Deceased: "All I could say is that I heard gunshots. My daughter's house isn't too far away from the barber shop where Hammon was working. And we heard gunshots and we heard that it's by the barbershop. So when I went to see, my son in law and another guy were lifting him out of the barber shop to take him into an ambulance. That's when we reached there."

Police May Have 16 Year Old's Killer
Earlier this week we told you about the murder of 16 year old Julian Tun, who was shot dead in San Pedro over the weekend. Police say that the motive for the shooting is still unclear, but police suspect that Tun was targeted after he was accused for attempting to kill a senior George Street figure last year. The news tonight is that CIB investigators were able to track down and detain a Belize City man who they believe is connected to the murder. When the cops apprehended the man, he allegedly gave them a false name, but police soon identified him as Guzberry Bowen, and charged for a single count of committing a mischievous act.

Cargo Truck Driver And Sideman Charged For Trafficking
Driver Jose Garcia and his sideman Bryan Hernandez who work for Belize Parcel and Mail Service have been charged for drug trafficking. Police intercepted the pair yesterday just outside Orange Walk town when they searched a BPMS Cargo truck headed from Corozal to Belize City. the truck was full of all kinds of cargo, but police had intelligence saying that the two men had a specific package of marijuana. Sure enough, the cops found 23 pounds in a large rectangular box, and 2 pounds stashed separately. Police concluded that the two were directly responsible for the packages - and charged them today. Up until this morning, the cargo truck was held and it was being searched by the K-9 unit. Police suspect that this kind of operation had been happening for some time.

Bus Driver For Aggravated Assault
In 2015, Bus Driver Daren Stuart Sr. made the news with a sensational right cross that sent a drunken commuter flying unto the pavement. And while that case did not result in charges, today Stuart was in court charged for aggravated assault after threatening to crack a man's skull. This morning, his son, Darren Stuart Jr., was charged with harm. Allegations are that on Saturday, July 8th Darren Stuart Jr., caused harm to Deon Talbert. Stuart Jr. pleaded not guilty and was bailed for $300 dollars. Then his father came before the court for more serious charges. He was charged for aggravated assault upon Deon Talbert and using threatening words after it is alleged that told Talbert, quote, "I will crack your skull and kill yuh because I nuh play with my daily bread." Stuart Sr., pleaded not guilty to both charges.

Alleged PG Robbers Caught
At around 9 on Monday night, two men entered Three Star Quality Poultry in Punta Gorda Town and allegedly robbed three people of their cell phones and the money from that day's sales. The two alleged robbers have since been identified as Jovannie O'Brien and Kavaughn Smith, both residents of Banak Street in Belize City. Today O'Brien and Smith were jointly charged robbery.

Senator Steps In To Save Human Traffic Victim
He may be the 13th. Senator, but Osmany Salas is the first civilian we know of to almost singlehandedly break up a human trafficking abduction - and he did so without involving any Belizean law enforcement authority. Salas today posted the account on Facebook. Using fictitious names, he explains that the mother of a teenaged girl from Orange Walk called him on Tuesday night to say that her daughter had run away from home. The mother later found out that her daughter had crossed the border at Botes along with other girls led by a male escort. The mother's story is that an unidentified woman met her daughter at home and lured her on a bus to Santa Cruz village - which is the jump off point to Botes, Mexico. A man joined them along the way and paid the bus fares for a whole group of girls. They went across to Mexico, and that's when the mother called on Salas.

Opp. Leader Wants BDF Investigation
Tonight, Leader of the Opposition John Briceno is calling for an investigation into the irregularities that ended with those 90 plus discarded BDF uniforms inside an Orange Walk home. As we've reported, the uniforms were part of 1,200 which the Ministry of Finance had sent to the Ministry of Finance for destruction. In what the Financial secretary calls a "major breach", one of the persons contracted to destroy the items, Sarco Torres ended up with 100 of the uniforms at his house. Some of these uniforms were then found with a Mexican who was heading form Belize to Botes.

Heredia and The Harmouche's
Last night's news was all about UDP Ministers Rene Montero and Manuel Heredia Jr. testifying before the Senate Select Committee. Montero's testimony was significantly shorter than Heredia's because the Tourism Minister had to answer all those Harmouche's, who he helped to become Belizean citizens back in early 2012. The Auditor General was concerned with Heredia's interest in the Harmouche Clan, even questioning if there was a conflict of interest between him and Khodr (Coder) Harmouche, the Honorary Consul of Belize in Lebanon. As we showed you, Heredia claims that there are close to 100 Harmouches living in San Pedro, and so the Senate wanted to know if he was eager to help them get nationality because he was in election mode. Here's that exchange between Heredia and the Senators on the Commitee:

Hon. Heredia Courier Service?
The Senators also wanted to know about the immigration courier services Heredia claimed to have been providing since 1994. As viewers will remember, the Auditor General flagged the practice when she noted that he received 52 visa stickers back on September 7, 2012. Those stickers were for the Immigration Officer in charge of the San Pedro office. The Auditor General says that it was improper for him to do so, but yesterday, he explained that he started doing this for San Pedro because its isolation from the mainland causes undue delays: Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr.- Area Rep, Belize Rural South: "From 1994, when I was mayor of the island, right, the previous administration was in power, they had asked me if I can provide services because usually, I will come at least once a week to tend to the businesses of my constituency in different departments. So being myself, that I usually come Mondays, particularly, for the business of the constituency, immigration in San Pedro with the consent of the Minister responsible had asked me if I can take and bring sealed envelopes from San Pedro to Belmopan and from Belmopan to San Pedro. And that is what I had been doing from 1994 until Minister Hulse became the minister..."

Briceno Seeing Red: Wants DPP to Charge, Charge, Charge
And Opposition Leader John Briceno has heard enough from the Senate Hearings. He says the DPP needs to investigate criminals charges against all four ministers who've testified so far:... Hon. John Briceno, Leader of the Opposition: "The DPP should look into that. The DPP should look into the actions of Minister Castro, or Minister Martinez, of Minister Heredia and Minister Montero. I mean we can just start there. We need to start at the very top, until we can get after the people at the very top, the people at the bottom are going to continue to follow the example of the top."

Do Want Scrubs
Today the Belize and California Branches of the Association of Justices of the Peace donated almost 1500 medical scrubs to the Ministry of Health. The scrubs will be distributed to various public hospitals across the country and BERT. A handing over ceremony was held today, where President of the Association, Danny Madrid, and Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero, told us why they do want scrubs... Adrian Madrid -National President, Association of Justices of the Peace: "Now today we are here presenting to the Ministry of Heath, 1,479 pieces of uniforms for doctors and nurses. This is just the beginning. I believe that through the California chapter we will be able to do more donations to our fellow Belizeans. As we speak the California chapter is preparing to donate a container of some wheel chairs which we know we have done our survey and we know that this is very necessary and needed in Belize. So we are happy to say that that is is the other project that we will be doing and we have other projects that we are thinking about, but today we are here to represent these uniforms to the Ministry of Health."

Yoga For Healers, Helpers
Tomorrow Om Shanti Belize will host a yoga retreat for nurses - and we all know how badly our nurses need it after those long hours on their feet - shuffling through the hospital halls. The 2 part session starts tomorrow morning at 9 and 10 nurses have already joined. There are more free spaces for other nurses to participate. Lead instructor Kathryn McPherson discusses why these yoga and relaxation sessions are worth it... Kathryn McPherson - ROC Om Shanti Facilitator: "We are putting this workshop on to provide a place for nurses to come get some self-care, they work very long hours and their jobs are very strenuous. So this workshop is to help them calm distress also alleviate back pain any neck pain that they might be having, I've heard that neck and the back are the main issues. We will also be doing some core strengthening to help develop and strengthen their core to help with their lower back and also to some quick fixes on the job so when they are in pain on the job, give them some tools that they can use right away."

Searching For A Citrus Solutions
Citrus fortunes have been steadily declining over the last 10 years, and some speculate that without a massive infusion of capital, new plant stock and collective will - Belize's oldest agro-industry could slip away. But, based on a meeting on Monday in Belmopan, it seems that collective will could finally be on the horizon. The Ministry of Agriculture convened a meeting with representatives of the Citrus Growers Association and Belize Citrus Mutual - the growers groups with a long history of hostility. Well, this time, they are ones who jointly requested the meeting. According to a joint release, they wanted to talk about "the performance of the 2016 - 2017 crop, the progress being made in managing the Huanglongbing disease, and pressing issues such as labour and access to affordable capital.

Pallotine Sisters Need Your Help
The Pallottine sisters have dedicated their lives to helping others but now they really need your help. They are out of a home because the building they've lived in for over 60 years can collapse at any minute. It's no longer safe to inhabit and it has to be demolished. Courtney Weatherburne visited the sisters at the convent to see how dire the situation is:... The first Palloti High School classes were held in the lower flat of this 3 story building during the 1950's. It wasn't the conventional school setting but it was all they had at the time.

GOB Doing The Diaspora
There's good news for all Belizeans living "da foreign": The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has launched a Diaspora of Belize website. diasporaofbelize.org seems like just another government website to us, but a press release says, quote, "this new site is to facilitate the gathering of information on skills, experiences, and interests of Belizeans living in and legitimate Belizean organizations operating out of the Belizean Diaspora, and to engage them in contributing to the development of Belize primarily through investment and repatriation of skills."

Taiwan Waives Visa Requirements
And while the government of Belize is sidling up to the diaspora, the Taiwanese are reading out to its allies in Latin America and the Caribbean. That country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs today announced that citizens of 10 diplomatic allies will no longer need visas to go to Taiwan. So, citizens of Belize, the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Saint Christopher and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines can stay visa free for up to 30 days:. Citizens of El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, and Nicaragua can stay up to 90 days.

FFB Moving Fast Towards Congress
Yesterday we told you all about the new General Secretary at the Football Federation of Belize. Well, he has to hit the ground running because four member associations have called for an urgent extraordinary congress. That letter was sent to the FFB on Saturday July 8th., so, as of now, the clock is ticking. Acting President Marlon Kuylen explained: Marlon Kuylen, Acting President - FFB: "We have 60 days from receipt of that letter to convene that Congress, and by the statute we must convene it. But it can be done within 60 days, so, ah, it will happen. The date we haven't set as yet because we have our homework cut out for us. Because items on the agenda include the election or the formation of an ethics committee, and a new electoral appeals committee. So we have to go and search for people that are willing to serve on these committees. So, yes, it has to happen, it will happen within the 60 days."

BSI and BSCFA Have Substantial Differences
As you heard last night, ASR/BSI and the three cane farmers associations will have a very busy off - season. They have to agree on a way forward in a changing market landscape. ASR/BSI wants a 7 year commitment from the farmers groups to make a 20+ million dollar investment that they say would give the industry better market position. But the largest association which is the BSCFA doesn't feel comfortable moving forward on that just yet. They still have unfinished bagasse business with ASR/BSI - which Mac McLachlan lamented in an interview with CTV-3:...

Shyne Getting Ready In Mesop
As has been very well publicized, Shyne intends to follow in the footsteps of his uncle Michael Finnegan, and offer himself as a candidate for Mesop. When we spoke to him earlier today, Shyne gave us an update on his work with the people of Mesop... The UDP must still hold a convention for the area - no word yet on whether it will be contested.

Shyney New Saxophones
Today, Music Ambassador, Shyne Barrow, donated one saxophone to the students at the Samuel Haynes Music Institute. The new sax was specifically requested by the orchestra, and will serve as a much needed addition to its tenor section. This is Barrow's second donation to the Institute this year, so today we spoke to him about the importance of music in our community and how he can afford to keep making these donations...

Channel 5

Doehms Back in Court on Child Cruelty Charge; D.P.P. Spars with Defense
David and Anke Doehm were escorted to the Magistrate Court in Belize this afternoon for arraignment. The American couple has been under investigation since last week after their adopted daughter [...]

Adoptive Father of Cannon Siblings in Belize and Working with Authorities
As we told you on Wednesday, David Doehm is not the adoptive father of the Faye Lin and her three siblings. In court today it was revealed that David Cannon, [...]

Chief Prosecutor Praises Police for Work on Faye Lin Cannon Case
According to the Director of Public Prosecution, Cheryl-Lynn Vidal, this case has been one in which the police department has worked hand-in-hand with her office. Vidal says that while murder [...]

Cayo Resident Hammon Lemoth Dies; Shooting is Now a Murder
Fifty-one days after he was shot on the head in the city, Hammond Lemoth succumbed this morning, just after eleven o’clock. Lemoth was inside a barber shop on Central American [...]

City Man Questioned in Murder of Julian Tun
San Pedro police are tonight questioning a Belize City man in connection with the shooting death of sixteen year old Julian Tun. We understand that he was picked up in [...]

The Harrowing, But Triumphant Story of Teen Rescued from Human Traffickers
Tonight there is a disturbing report from the north about a Belizean teenager rescued from the clutches of human traffickers in Chetumal, Mexico. It comes on the heels of the [...]

Help Needed to Demolish Historic Pallotti Convent
Established in 1955, the Pallotine Convent on Princess Margaret Drive in Belize City has served generations of the Catholic order, which in addition to running Pallotti High School does missionary [...]

What is Status of F.F.B. Finances?
The failed F.F.B. Congress, which ought to have taken place on the weekend of June twenty-fourth, has instead left in its wake serious unfinished business. While executives and members of [...]

Orange Walk Farmer Hit by Break-In at Farm
An elderly farmer has been robbed of an assortment of items worth more than forty thousand dollars. Eighty-one-year-old Douglas Own Fox resides in San Estevan, Orange Walk District but his [...]

Heredia Questions ‘Natural Justice’ at Senate Hearing
Tonight we have more from Wednesday’s public hearing of the Senate Special Select Committee starting with Minister of Tourism and Belize Rural South area representative Manuel Heredia Junior. In the [...]

Checks and Balances Needed to Fix Immigration Service for San Pedro
Heredia also conceded during his testimony that he did not have specific authority to transfer packages from the Immigration Department’s main office in Belmopan to its sub-office in San Pedro [...]

Montero Says Office Workers Behind Nationality Requests
On Wednesday, Minister Rene Montero strongly denied involvement with the Harmouche family in terms of assisting to get their nationality. According to him, he only intervened once in the documented [...]

Camp for Athletes Living with Intellectual Disabilities Organized by Special Olympics
Schools across the country have now closed; it means that it is the beginning of summer camps. Earlier today, we stopped by a unique camp for athletes living with intellectual [...]

Travel Visa-Free to Taiwan
According to Taiwan News, a media outlet in Taiwan, citizens from a number of Caribbean countries, including Belize, are now able to enjoy visa-free travel to Taiwan. It is reported [...]

Yertle the Turtle Contributes to Tracking of Endangered Species
For a few years now turtles are being tagged to track their movements to find out their migration patterns and other valuable information to assist in research and management. A [...]

JP’s Donate to K.H.M.H.
This afternoon, the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital received a generous donation of medical scrubs. The surgical attire was gifted to the hospital authority by the Justices of the Peace and [...]

Top Public Hospital Welcomes Contributions
According to Director of Health Services, Doctor Marvin Manzanero, the contribution speaks to the relationship between the Ministry of Health, the K.H.M.H. and the public. Dr. Marvin Manzanero, Director [...]

Fundraiser Saturday for New Domestic Violence Shelter in San Pedro
A local organization in San Pedro called Raise Me Up is asking the public for help to get a shelter completed. The shelter called Hope Haven will serve as a [...]

Healthy Living: Nurses, Take Care of Yourselves
It’s a profession that is well-known for its difficult shifts and long hours. Nurses provide around the clock care to patients. While they are one of the experts in providing [...]

LOVE FM

American couple charged with cruelty to a child
The American couple who are suspected to be involved in the death of 13 year old Faye Lin Cannon are not free. Yesterday, Commissioner of Police, Allen Whylie, told the media that David Anke Doehm was unable to meet bail after being charged and arraigned for possession of valium but his fine was eventually paid. […]

Defence CEO says internal investigation into uniforms that were to be destroyed is now complete
The investigations continue into the incident where two Belizeans and a Mexican National were found in possession of uniforms and outboard engines belonging to the Belize Defense Force. These were to have been disposed by the Ministry of Finance. Today, we spoke with the CEO of Defense Lt. Colonel Felix Enriquez who says they have […]

Minister Manuel Heredia answer questions from Senate Committee
Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation and Area Representative for Belize Rural South, Manuel Heredia Junior, appeared this morning before the Special Senate Select Committee. Heredia’s name appears in the visa immigration audit report on page 12. According to the Auditor General, stated that Minister Heredia received 52 visa tickets on September 7, 2012. Those […]

Minister Heredia says there was no special relationship with Harmouch family
Minister Manuel Heredia also answered questions relating to the several recommendations he made as noted in the auditor general reports. According to the auditor general, Khodr Harmouch, the Honorary Consul of Belize in Tripoli Lebanon wrote letters to Minister Manuel Heredia to intervene in the nationality process of persons with the same Harmouche surname. The […]

Compol says more boots on the ground in areas that have seen spike in crime
Yesterday the commissioner of police Allen Whylie flanked by Minister responsible Home Affairs, Elodio Aragon Junior and CEO Retired Colonel George Lovell, hosted the media to share the latest crime statistics. The statistics presented are for the first six months of the year and the numbers were compared to the same period for 2016. Overall, […]

Legislation to address gang problem to be introduced
The Ministry of Home Affairs is also looking into introducing legislation to deal with the gang problem in Belize. It is being called the anti-gang legislation and it has already been drafted up. Minister Elodio Aragon Junior also shared that a legislation to protect the identity of witnesses in order to ensure the successful prosecution […]

Belize will continue to send DNA abroad for analysis
One of the greatest problems facing the Belize Police Department is the processing of forensic evidence. Belize does have a forensic lad but critical testing is done abroad. Minister Elodio Aragon spoke more on the challenge. Elodio Aragon – Minister of State, Home Affairs “It’s not a problem about the collecting of the DNA, it’s […]

Michael Blease booted from post of FFB General Secretary
Michael Blease is no longer the General Secretary of the Football Federation of Belize. Blease was ‘released’ by the executive of the FFB on Monday. Allegations had surfaced that Blease had manipulated the electoral committee and the electoral appeals committee. However, that was just the surface of it. Acting President, Marlon Kulyen, told the media […]

No budget, no problem for FFB
On June 24, the Football Federation of Belize attempted to hold its tenth congress. It was aborted when the quorum needed was not achieved and so many of the items on the agenda were not approved. One such item is the federation’s budget which has yet to be approved. Acting President Marlon Kuylen said it […]

Tourism arrival numbers keep on upward trend
Overnight tourism arrivals continue its upward trend. For the first half of 2017 overnight arrivals showed a seven point eight percent growth. June 2017 had the highest arrival total for a June month in history, with over 37,600 overnight visitors. There was an overall increase in cruise passengers. The figures for June 2017 did not […]

Breaking Belize News

David and Anke Doehm denied bail and remanded
Americans David and Anke Doehm, accused of abusing and killing their adopted 13-year-old daughter Faye Lin Cannon, were arraigned in Magistrate’s Court this afternoon on a charge of ‘cruelty to a child’. The couple was denied bail and both remanded to the Belize Central […]

Two-car accident near mile 8 George Price highway
There was an accident a short time ago at mile 8 on the George Price highway near Prosser Fertilizer involving two vehicles. One of the vehicles reportedly flipped causing debris and glass to litter the highway. The vehicles each came to a stop […]

Housing cost is crippling young Placencians: What needs to be done, now
By Charles Leslie Jr.: I had the opportunity to speak to a young man from Placencia. He is a distant cousin via the Eiley side of our family. We met here in Belmopan, and he told me his horror story about how his grandfather left a piece […]

Inefficient, Ineffective, Inept- Senate Inquiry- Nine months and counting
By Delroy Cuthkelvin: Let me preface my argument by acknowledging that I am indeed a supporter of the incumbent party in government and do not pretend to be free of any political bias. Notwithstanding, there should be some degree of reasoning in all of us. And, by […]

FFB gets new general secretary in 24 hours
The Football Federation of Belize (FFB) terminated their General Secretary Michael Blease, replacing him in a matter of 24 hours with CEO of the Belize Central Prison, Earl Jones. Acting FFB president Marlon Kuylen, explained that Jones will remain the temporary General Secretary, while […]

It takes a village to raise a child
By Osmany Salas: Today my wife, Lupi Salas, and I experienced the true meaning of the phrase “It takes a village”. Last night we witnessed a mother’s horror and this afternoon we shared in that same mom’s happiness. Had it not been for the intervention and quick […]

Optimism in the Citrus Industry, says Ministry of Agriculture
On Monday, July 10th, 2017, a meeting was held at the Conference Room of the Ministry of Agriculture between the Minister of Agriculture, Godwin Hulse, along with his executive team and representatives of the Citrus Growers Association and Belize Citrus Mutual. The meeting was as […]

Santa Elena man charged for possession of weed
According to reports, Benque Viejo police were conducting motorcycle patrol in Succtoz Village when they met and searched a man. The man had 671 grams of cannabis in his possession. The man was identified as Hilario Romero of Santa Elena Town. Romero has since […]

Ministry of Foreign Affairs announces Launch of New Diaspora of Belize Website
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs today announced the launch of a new Diaspora of Belize website. The new site offers a fresh new look, easier navigation, comprehensive information, and links to other relevant authorities and institutions. The Ministry’s main goal in designing this new […]

Mark Pollard missing for 10 days
Today, marks ten days since Mark Pollard went missing without a trace during a morning jog on the Philip Goldson Highway. There is growing concern with each passing day and search teams have not found any clues of his whereabouts. However, a surveillance footage […]

International Sources

Sports Commentary: Belize Football League in big trouble
By Wellington C. Ramos, Former national football player. In all the years that I played football in my country of Belize and here in the United States, I have never seen a set of people who are dysfunctional like some of the officers who have managed the Belize Football League and are aspiring to run for office. What hurts me the most is that some of these individuals never played football and if they played they were not stellar football players like the organization they are seeking to manage. When I was growing up in Dangriga Town in the 1960s, the men who played football loved the sport, were dedicated, made many sacrifices to give it their all without being paid a penny and played quality football. This was not only in Dangriga but throughout the entire country of Belize. In all of our cities and towns, the residents looked forward to taking their families to a Sunday evening football game to watch their teams play. When the games were finished, the fans would boast about their team’s performances for the whole week and look forward to the next week set of games. Amateur football dominated Belize up until the late 1980s when we started to explore the possibilities of introducing professional football into our country.

Experiences worth remembering
I have been to Belize four times: 1973, for Christmas vacation; 1976, via motorcycle from Columbia; 1996, Christmas vacation with Linda and friends Janice and John; and 1998, to study Mayan ruins in the Yucatan Peninsula. Needless to say, I like Belize. Belize was a British colony, British Honduras, from 1862 until independence in 1981. The government is based on the British parliamentary system. Queen Elizabeth II holds the symbolic title Queen of Belize. A prime minister runs the government. The official language is English, but Spanish is used everywhere. I always found Belize to be a tropical paradise where black, white, Creole, Hispanic, and Indian people speak English, love Americans, and use the U.S dollar.

Videos

Belize Scouts Association - World Jamboree, 22min.

Lab4 Poets of Pinks Alley Project, 45min.

Paint and Chill Art Session, 24min.

Caye Caulker is the first community in which BEL replaced all streetlights to LED in 2016, 1/2min.

Cayo From the Clouds, 2min. Escape to Belize is putting out some high quality videos of Cayo. This one highlights Cayo from the clouds using a drone.

Shark Party! Snorkeling Shark Ray Alley, Belize, 1min. A shark party just off the coast from San Pedro, Belize. Shot with my iPhone5 and Watershot Pro Housing.

Diving Belize 2017, 11min. Some footage from a PADI Open Water certification course. The barrier reef that stretches along the coast of Belize is the second largest in the world. It is home to many caribbean life forms. During these dives the most noticeable were nurse sharks. I am sure that much more can be found here.

Belize 2017 w/ EF Tours, 7min.

BELIZE TRIP, 7min. this was such a great experience!! We did a lot of more stuff but it was water activities and i did not have a gopro/; I loved it so much and would recommend going on a vacation here. AND this was my bestfriends first time on an airplane!!!!!

Under The Sea - Diving In Belize With Tony, 11min.

July 13, 2017

The news will be a bit brief for the next week or so due to time constraints

Area Representative of Belize Rural South (San Pedro & Caye Caulker) Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr. in questioning at a Special Senate Select Committee Hearing., 98min.

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

The San Pedro Sun

5-a-side Football Tournament heads into finals
After eight weeks of football action, the San Pedro Town Council’s 5-a-side Football Tournament regular season has ended. The last set of games took place from Wednesday, July 7th to Sunday, July 9th, and as usual, large crowds came out to the Honorable Louis Sylvestre Sporting Complex to support their favorite players and teams. On Wednesday, June 21st, females and two Under-15 games took place. In the U-15 category, San Pedro Pirates suffered a loss against New Ravens, 2-5, while Caribeña Strikers triumphed over Los Catrachitos, 3-0. Afterwards the teams in the female division took to the pitch, where SPHS Girls #1 scored 3-0 over SPHS Girls #3 and the Island Strikers got 5 goals past Island Invader’s 2 goals. The SPTC 5-a-side Football Tournament Finals will begin on Thursday, July 13th. The schedules game are below:

Belizean Journalists awarded for completion of environmental course
A group of Belizean journalists, along with educators and communication officers, concluded a one year course titled ‘Safeguarding the future: the environmental and economic connection in Belize.’ The course was facilitated by the Belize Coalition to Save Our Natural Heritage. On Saturday, July 8th, participants were awarded with a certificate of completion during a dinner hosted at the Radisson Fort George Hotel and Marina in Belize City. At the award ceremony, lead course instructor and facilitator Holly Edgell congratulated everyone for a job well done. “It has been a long journey with a single goal, and that is to put the environment first,” she said. Edgell was also joined by Janelle Chanona Vice President of Oceana in Belize and a founding member of the Coalition. “As advocates, it’s our duty to call out this reality as catalysts for change. As journalists, your jobs are to broadcast this reality to your audience,” said Chanona to the participants.

Dehanne Augustine is Deputy of the Coastal Executive Unit
On Tuesday July 4th, Assistant Superintendent Dehanne Augustine was officially named Deputy Officer in Charge of the Coastal Executive Unit (Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker). Augustine’s new position has her working alongside Officer in Charge (OC) of the Coastal Executive Unit (CEU), Superintendent Henry Jemmott. He previously occupied the Deputy position under the leadership of Superintendent Sandra Bowden, and took charge upon her transfer in November of 2016. Deputy OC Augustine was transferred from Caye Caulker, where she served her capacity as the Officer in Charge (OC) for over one year. As such, she has had a close working relationship with newly ranked Superintendent Henry Jemmott.

Ambergris Today

Young Belizean Football Players Score In US Soccer Event
Sixteen young soccer players from Belize are in Colorado Springs, Colorado to take part in Rush Fest, an international youth soccer camp. For most of the Warriors FC players, the trip marks their first trip by air and first time in the United States The Warriors FC players are at-risk youth from across Belize. Playing as Rush Belize, the 12 and 13-year-olds will have the opportunity train with and compete against U.S. teams and teams from other countries as part of the event. In its first match-up, on July 10, Rush Belize defeated Michigan Rush 8-0. Under the leadership of Country Director Daniel Fabro, Warriors FC recently became the Belize affiliate of Rush Soccer. The Colorado-based club is committed to the development of healthy youth through the game of soccer.

Anke And David Doehm Charged With Cruelty To A Child
Official police reports confirm this today, Wednesday, July 12, 2017, that Anke Doehm has been arrested and charged for the crime of “Cruelty to a Child” while David Doehm will be formally arrested and charged tomorrow, Thursday, when he is taken out from Kolbe Foundation, Belize Central Prison on a removal order. The arrests come in compliance with directive from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). This crime is tried only on indictment and carries a sentence of a 10-year prison term. The investigation regarding the death of Faye Lin Cannon continues.

Misc Belizean Sources

SBDC Workshop: INTRODUCTION TO BUSINESS TAX
Presented by: Mrs. Lisa Clare, Tax Officer, Income Tax Department. Location: Ecumenical Junior College, Conference Room, Dangriga Town. Workshop Date: July 20th, 2017. Time: 9am to 12noon. Free of Cost. Income Tax was enacted in Belize in 1924 and remained in that basic form up to July 1998, when Business Tax was introduced. The Legislation is now called "The Income And Business Tax Act", with an effective date of January 1999 in its current form. The Act is divided into three parts with Income Tax under Part 1, Income Tax on Profits arising from Petroleum under Part 11 and Business Tax under Part 111. This Information session will help you understand the ACT in details.

Support the Fundraiser for Hope Haven Children's Home
PLEASE SAVE YOUR POCKET CHANGE for the Dollar Drive and Saturday's hangout at San Pedro Lions Club, Belize in downtown, starting at 11AM and going on all day! Buy some lunch and get drink specials (ALL proceeds will benefit the shelter), and dance to some great Belizean DJs on the turntables! Some awesome prizes are being donated for this, so you can be sure there's going to be a great raffle, too! If you have prizes you would like to donate to this event, please reach out to Joe Chung or Christopher Michael Burkey. This event will be all day, so feel free to stop by anytime!

Festival of Hope / Festival de Esperanza 2017
with Lighthouse Caribbean Christian Radio Ministry. Coming to San Pedro, Ambergris Caye

Spoonaz in Concert
Join us if you can this Friday night at Spoonaz. The Belize Music Agency is launching a series of music performances by Belizean artists of authentic Belizean music genre. It is geared towards visitors and tourists but will evoke the Belizean in your Belizean soul ... cover charge is BZ$20.00.

Transport Minister Hon Edmond Castro Discusses New National Bus Terminal with Belize Infrastructure Limited (BIL) General Manager and Public-Private Sector Consultant
Yesterday in Belmopan, Minister of Transport Hon Edmond Castro met with Belize Infrastructure Limited (BIL) General Manager Ms. Christy Mastry, and Mr. Marcel Ham of IMG Rebel, the Public Private Partnership consultant to the GOB, to discuss plans for a new National Bus Terminal in Belize City. The new National Bus Terminal, to be constructed as part of the Lake Independence Master Plan, now endorsed by Cabinet, will be one of the first projects to anchor the new development area. The project is now being envisioned as a public-private sector partnership with the potential for not only national and regional bus line servicing, but also expanded auxiliary commercial, retail and depot services, as well as connectivity to the local public transportation network. The Ministry of Transport will continue to work in partnership with Belize Infrastructure Limited on the Lake Independence and Transportation Master Plan efforts, for the delivery of a welcomed facility that will serve to improve the transportation system along with the legislative framework to support these nationwide enhancements.

Hope Haven Donors welcome! Every bit counts!
A very big heartfelt thank you to the San Pedro Town Council and Cayo Frances Ltd for their donation of three truckloads of fill. An inch closer to the finish line! Come and volunteer to your time anytime M-F 8a-5p at the shelter, located across from Maya Island Air!

STEAM program at the Embassy
On Friday, we had our third STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) program at the Embassy. We were delighted to host 11 students from the Corozal Community College STEAM Club. Charge d’Affairs Adrienne Galanek welcomed the group and inspired them to continue the good work and to encourage other student to careers in STEAM. Gordon the Embassy's Facility Manager, Heidi, our Electrical Engineer, Mark our Civil Engineer and Darrell Chapman, our Information Officer encouraged students to continue embrace various fields of STEAM and took them on a tour of the Embassy, explaining the science and technology behind our air conditioning and water treatment systems, xeriscaping, and our new solar panels! Corozal Community College - Official Ruth Shoman Corozal Junior College (Official)

BCVIs 2007 Summer Camp
We are one week away from our 20th Summer Camp! You can help us support the children at Camp by making a donation at your nearest BCVI Clinic or deposit to Belize Bank 138210010120001. To those of you who have donated, we thank you for your kind support!

World Population Day Forum
Yesterday, The Office of the Special Envoy for Women and Children in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) hosted a World Population Day Forum on Family Planning at the Radisson Fort George Hotel and Marina in Belize City. In attendance were adolescents from various youth groups across Belize as well as duty bearers from different sectors of society. During the forum, the audience got to hear about the reality of early childbearing from a teen mom and was also given an opportunity to share their thoughts and concerns as it relates to adolescent pregnancy, sexuality education and family planning. World Population Day 2017 was celebrated under the theme “Family Planning: Empowering People, Developing Nations.”

Technical Training Course for Coaches
This week in Corozal Town the Belize Sailing Association(BzSA) is hosting a Level 1 Technical Training Course for Coaches(TTC1) at the Almond Tree Resort. The one week training is being conducted by World Sailing's Regional Development Coordinator Eduardo Sylvester who is working with 20 BzSa members from around the country. The Corozal Bay Sailing Club has the largest amount of sailors in the country headed by Commodore Mr. Gerard Cordts. Don't forget to come out this weekend July 15 and 16 and support our team as Corozal is hosting the Corozal Bay Regatta!

San Joaquin Village Aventura Archaeology Day
You are invited to San Joaquin Village's Aventura Archaeology Day with Cynthia Robin, Professor of Anthropology, Northwestern University.

Adopt a Puppy in Corozal
We are having our very first Puppy Adoption Day this Saturday, July 15 from 6-8 p.m. at Art in the Park. The Corozal Animal Program table will be across from the Rotary Popcorn Machine. We have ten beautiful puppies to be adopted. Please let us know if you would like to help by taking care of a puppy while we talk to potential adopters. Please spread the word about this fun event. Corozal Animal Program-CAP

Joyful Two Coming to Cayo
The UWI Arts Chorale and the UWI Arts Steel are about to tour Belize, and they'll be playing in Cayo. The Joyful Two, as they are called, will have a free concert next Sunday, July 23rd, at the Cayo Welcome Center, and then they'll play on Tuesday, July 25th, at the UB auditorium.

APEX and Los Hijos del West
APEX played with Los Hijos de West at the Benque HoC when they were in Cayo. Thanks, APEX, for your positive message and music! "APEX and the Los Hijos del West played at the Benque House of Culture (NICH) this morning. APEX also delivered a positive speech to everyone in attendance. Some great music was played. Thanks go out to APEX and the U.S. Embassy Belize for making this wonderful cultural event happen."

John Paul II JC 2017 Graduation
The John Paul II Junior College had their 2017 graduation. Congratulations to all the proud graduates!

Channel 7

American Couple Charged For Child Cruelty After Death Of Their Daughter
Tonight, there are charges for Anke and David Doehm that link them to the death of their adopted daughter, 13 year old Faye Lin Cannon. Police report that the DPP has directed them to jointly charge the Doehm's with the crime of "Cruelty to a child." Anke Doehm - who is in police custody - has already been arrested and charged while David Doehm - who is at the Hattieville Prison - will be formally arrested and charged tomorrow when he is brought down from prison. Of course, it's not a murder charge - which some might have expected - but the Police note that this crime carries a sentence of 10 years in jail.

Did Montero Give The Order?
The Senate Hearings continued today in Belmopan where the second pair of sitting UDP Ministers, Rene Montero, and Manuel Heredia Jr., were called to testify before the Senate Select Committee. You'll remember last week how the meeting descended into confrontation, when Edmond Castro and Anthony "Boots" Martinez were called to give testimony. Well, today, things returned to the calm, orderly exchanges that the Senators have been having with the witnesses. But, that doesn't mean that the Senators went easy on Montero and Heredia. We begin tonight with the questions that the Senate had for the Cayo Central representative Rene Montero. In the Nationality section of Auditor General's reports on Immigration, she flags a letter from Montero to former Immigration Director Ruth Meighan.

Motor Says He Never Knew Harmouche's
Among the list of applicants listed in Montero's letter to former Director Meighan were two nationality applicants, Saad Harmouch, and and Wael Harmouche. Now, the Harmouch clan are actually residents of San Pedro, and the Senate certainly had a lot of questions for Manuel Heredia Jr. today about these Lebanese Belizeans with that same last name who got nationality with his assistance. We'll get to that a little bit later, but first, here's the Senate confronting Montero about why he recommended Saad Harmouch and Wael Harmouche for nationality when they certainly were not his constituents from Cayo Central. He told them that the Immigration Department, who called him about these nationality applications numbers, made a mistake, and that's why he intervened on behalf two nationality applicants who aren't in his electoral division:

Manuel Heredia and The Harmouche Clan
So, while Montero doesn't know any of the Harmouches, his ministerial colleague, Manuel Heredia Jr., knows the entire clan of them who live on San Pedro. He claims that there over 100 of them who live on the island. In the Auditor General's report, she has 24 pages dedicated to the many Harmouches who applied for nationality with many irregularities in their file, or the manner in which they were handled. And, Belize Rural South's Manuel Heredia Jr., is right there in the audit report because the Audit team is concerned about intervention he made to assist them to get Nationality. Some of them, from the Audit Team's perspective, did not qualify. In other instances, certain procedures were not followed when granting these applicants their nationality.

Montero Said His Office Sent Recommendations, He Didn't
In tomorrow's newscast, we'll show you the questions that the Senate Committee had for Heredia about his motives for helping for helping the Harmouche applicants. But, we now turn back now to Rene Montero's testimony from the afternoon session. You heard how he asserted that he only sent one recommendation letter to the the Immigration Department, trying to assist applicants who requested it. The Senators then pointed out 2 other applicants noted in the report, and he said that he didn't send letters for them, but maybe someone from his Santa Elena office did. Here's that exchange:

Weed Coming To City By Cargo Service
Tonight Orange Walk police have two men detained for 25 pounds of marijuana which was intercepted this morning aboard the Belize Parcel and Mail Service known as BPMS. At 10:00 this morning, the company's cargo truck was heading to the city from Corozal - when, acting on intelligence, police intercepted it at the Establo Roundabout which is at the northern entrance of Orange Walk Town. They found this large blue container onboard containing 23 pounds of weed. They also found another one kilo stash stowed inside the vehicle.

Police Recovered Working Pipe Gun
And, Orange Walk police were also up before dawn to catch this homemade weapon in the Black Water Creek Area of Trial Farm. It's a crudely designed but functioning device made from two lengths of lead pipe with a spring. Police know it works, and say that a bullet believed to be from this same device grazed a woman last week. The weapon was found with a 16 gauge cartridge, and a variety of rounds used in assault elves and handguns.

Three Months Later, Cross Country Doping Tests Still Not Back
The Holy Saturday Cross Country Cycling Classic race was held on Holy Saturday April 15th., but three months later, the prizes for the top finishers haven't been handed out yet, and that's because the drug tests haven't come back from the UCLA Olympic Laboratory. What's the holdup? Well, according to reports, UCLA says Belize's National Olympic Committee owes then thousands of dollars for tests done in previous years - which they didn't get paid for. Now, the Belize Cycling Federation President Dion Leslie told us that it's not their fault because the Federation has fully paid the National Anti Doping Organization's Representative in Belize - and he says the Federation has its receipts.

BDF, Defense Ministry Not Investigating Missing Uniforms, Or Major's Connection
The BDF is not conducting an investigation into the case of close to 100 uniforms and other discarded equipment which were found at civilian Sarco Torres's home in Orange Walk. The BDF Commander David Jones did not reply to our request for a comment, and Defense Minister John Saldivar referred us to his CEO - who said they are waiting on the police investigation. But, according to our sources, the BDF is classing it as a case of improper disposal of items that had been written off. The BDF sees that as a matter strictly for the Ministry of Finance - where the Financial Secretary Joe Waight has confirmed that there was a "serious breach" in procedure.

FFB Introduces New Gen. Sec.
As we told you last night, the Football Federation of Belize fired General Secretary Michael Blease on Monday. This ends four years that Blease held a job where he made many enemies, and kept as many strong allies. The news today was that he has been replaced within 24 hours. The man taking over the job temporarily is former Magistrate and Prison CEO Earl Jones. Today, Jones along with acting President Marlon Kuylen held an impromptu press conference to discuss the way forward, and Blease's imposing figure in the rearview mirror:â€¦ Marlon Kuylen- Acting President, FFB: "The things that we thought were wrong, it was actually worse than we thought. We see that now we have to make significant changes - and we started on Monday by releasing the General Secretary and appointing Mr. Earl Jones as interim General Secretary for as long as needed. The idea is that we will advertise the post and have people apply for it and then we choosethe best-qualified person."

Comparing Crime On South And Northside
Last night, we gave you a short excerpt of joint press conference that Police Commissioner Allen Whylie held with Police Minister Elodio Aragon Jr. and CEO George Lovell. He was discussing the crime statistics for the last 6 months, and after he gave a broad overview of the number of major crimes reported countrywide, he then began breaking down the number of murders recorded in each district. One area that he was careful to examine was the Police Eastern Division. That covers the entire Belize District, but we start first with the snapshot of Eastern Division North and South, which covers Belize City itself. Here's what the numbers say about the country's largest population center and number one crime hotspot:

Belize Rural's Crime Profile
From there, the Commissioner turned to the murder count for Eastern Division Rural. Here's what the police stats are for the rural parts of the Belize District: Allen Whylie - Commissioner of Police: "Ladyville recorded 4 murders at the end of June 2017 compared to 5 murders at the end of June 2016. Hattieville also recorded 4 murders at the end of June 2017 compared to 5 murders in June 2016 that reflects that in the rural command there was 8 murders in 2017 at the end of June compared to 10 murders in 2016 at the end of June and that brought the murder tally for the Belize District proper as 38 murders in 2017 at the end of June compared to 33 murders at the end of June 2016."

The Countrywide Crime Picture
Finally, here's a look at the number of murders that have been committed in the other 5 districts: Allen Whylie - Commissioner of Police: "In the Cayo District for the Belmopan command at the end of June 2017 4 murders were recorded, at the end of June 2016 10 murders were recorded. In San Ignacio 9 murders were recorded at the end of June 2017 compared to 6 murders in 2016. Benque Veijo had 1 murder recorded in 2017 up to the end of June and in 2016 June they also had 1 murder recorded. That shows for the Cayo District there were 14 murders committed at the end of June 2017 compared to 17 murders at the end of June 2016. The Corozal District recorded 6 murders at the end of June 2017 compared to 5 murders at the end of June 2016."

Plans Being Discussed for New National Bus Terminal
It's been discussed for years, but the plan for the new national bus terminal on Lake I Boulevard is coming together. According to a government release "the project is now being envisioned as a public-private sector partnership." It is being spearheaded by Belize Infrastructure Limited, and yesterday Transport Minister Edmond Castro met with BIL General Manager Christy Mastry, and Marcel Ham of IMG Rebel, Government's Public Private Partnership consultant.

New Northside Top Cop And His Plans For Meet And Greet
Today Belize City's Northside Police conducted their weekly meet & greet around Gabourel Lane and the surrounding area. The newly appointed commander of the Northside, Senior Superintendent Ralph Moody, joined his officers for a tour of the neighborhood and spoke with residents about their security concerns. After making the rounds, Moody stopped and spoke to us about his ideas for making the meet and greet sessions more effective...

Where Tourism Marketing And Social Media Meet
On Friday, the Belize Tourism Board will be hosting its 3rd Annual Digital Marketing Summit. The conference will introduce stakeholders in the tourism industry to strategies that will allow them advertise more effectively online. BTB is bringing in presenters from all over the world, all of them experts in marketing on different digital platforms. We spoke to BTB's Digital Marketing Manager, Maynor Larrieu, about the event... The summit will run for only one day, and over 150 tourism industry stakeholders are expected to attend.

Overnight Tourism's Amazing April
And, success is online marketing is one of the reasons Belize's overnight tourism numbers continue to look up. The latest figures released by the BTB show an amazing increase in April, with 24.2% more overnight arrivals when compared to 2016. June also showed strong growth with a 10% increase over last year. That averages out to a strong 7.8% increase over the second quarter of 2017. And while June saw more overnight visitors than any other June on record - as good as all that was for overnight tourism, it was equally bad, or worse for cruise tourism. June saw only 13 cruise calls, and just over 47,000 cruise passengers - which is down 28% from last year.

Challenges Ahead For Sugar Industry
As we reported last week, the cane harvesting season closed two weeks ago - and now ASR/BSI along with the cane farmers associations are preparing for the next harvest. The 2016-2017 harvest saw record production of sugar, and a high sugar yield from available cane. ASR's Mac McLachlan discussed the encouraging developments: Mac McLachlan - VP, Intl' Relations, ASR Group: "We brought in almost the same amount of cane, 1.29 million ton this year, it was 1.31 last year but we did manage to make over 10,000 tons more sugar from that cane which of course is a benefit to the mill but also to the farmers through the revenue sharing agreement. We're not complacent about this we're looking at what we can do next crop or in the off crop now to ensure an improvement in mill and factory performance. We have some investment plans that will help to achieve that and so all in all we have to celebrate the fact this industry use to produce 90,000 tons of sugar, now produced near 150 in the same mill."

Channel 5

Defense C.E.O. Awaits Police Report on Uniform Caper
There is new information coming out of the Ministry of Defense tonight, following the discovery of a significant quantity of outdated military equipment that were scheduled to be dispensed with [...]

Where Was Breach in Procedure?
The inventory of obsolete battle dress uniforms, along with the detachable boat engines, was found inside a home in Orange Walk Town. Mexican national Miguel De Jesus was found with [...]

Charges Laid Against David and Anke Doehm
In Tuesday’s newscast we confirmed that despite statements by ComPol Allen Whyle, David Doehm was behind bars at the Central Prison while his wife Anke remained in the hands of [...]

At Senate, Manuel Heredia Tells of Adventures in Couriering for Immigration
Two more Ministers of Government appeared today before the Senate Special Select Committee on Immigration. From opposite ends of the country, Tourism Minister Manuel Heredia Junior and Works Minister Rene [...]

Tourism Minister Says He Did Not Influence Harmouches’ Applications
He may not know them by name, but Heredia Junior had a curious relationship with the Harmouch family of San Pedro Town. The family numbers over one hundred strong and [...]

Minister Downplays Connection with Immigration Officer
The Auditor General highlighted multiple cases where members of the Harmouch family applied for nationality but did not meet the residency requirement. The common denominator is that they were recommended [...]

F.F.B. Removes General Secretary Michael Blease
A new administrator has taken up the reins of the Football Federation of Belize, following the dismissal of former General Secretary Michael Blease on Tuesday. The termination of Blease’s contract [...]

New Gen Sec Earl Jones Hopes for Time to Fix Federation
In speaking with the new general secretary, News Five learnt that the temporary position that Jones now holds will see him streamlining the functions of the F.F.B., particularly as it [...]

Rene Montero Addresses Recommendations He Made to Immigration
Now back to the senate hearings….This afternoon, Minister Rene Montero was questioned about his letter asking the Department to facilitate persons who wished to be sworn in as Belizeans by [...]

Requests for Immigration Assistance ‘Limited’
But what exactly was the Minister asking for, and did it have an impact in the elections? According to Montero, he felt the call from Immigration was genuine and concerned [...]

What Nationality Rush in 2012? Minister Distances Himself
Montero said he could not say for certain whether the appearance of Saad Harmouch in his list was a genuine mistake or someone trying to pull a fast one. But [...]

Rowan Garel Wins Taiwanese Award for Book Translation
Rowan Garel has been in Canada for about a year pursuing studies in Languages and Anthropology, but that has not stopped him from inspiring others. Recently, he was in New [...]

Onward and Upward for Tourism in First Half
Belize continues to draw tourists by land and sea to visit the Jewel, though not in record numbers as before. For the first half of the year, more than two [...]

Police Chase Leads in Mark Pollard Disappearance
It is nine days since Mark Pollard went missing while out exercising on the Phillip Goldson Highway. Family members fear the worst and the search for the Belize City man [...]

BPMS Driver & Companion Held for Weed
Earlier today, two men were busted at a police checkpoint at the Establo Roundabout at the northern entrance of Orange Walk Town. Thirty-one-year-old Jose Garcia was the driver of a [...]

A Closer Look at the Crime Statistics So Far
The gang truce has had success in the city, so much so that murder statistics have gone down in the Old Capital as well as in the rest of the [...]

New North Side Commanders ‘Meet and Greet’
It’s been two weeks since a major shuffle within the Police Department came into effect. The move saw Southern Regional Commander Senior Superintendent Ralph Moody transferred to Belize City to [...]

Focus on Discipline, Public Relations and Operations
Senior Superintendent Moody also spoke of the strategies he will implement to maintain law and order and keep criminal activity on the low. Sr. Supt. Ralph Moody, Regional Commander, [...]

South Side Keeping the Peace
The police command was also on its meet and greet initiative on the south side of the city. Today cops from the eastern division south joined their Deputy Regional Commander, [...]

Morale and Support High for New South Side Commanders
It has been just over a week since Arzu and his commander Marco Vidal took over the Eastern Division South. Today, when we met Arzu on the south side, we [...]

LOVE FM

No charges for men caught with BDF apparel and other equipment
Commissioner of Police, Allen Whylie was asked to comment on the recent police operation in Orange Walk Town where a hundred old Belize Defence Force uniforms, old generators and equipment were found. A Mexican by the name of Sarco Torres had been detained along with two Belizeans but they were later released. As we have […]

While Compol says American couple released, officials say they remain in custody
The American couple suspected to have caused the death of 13 year old Faye Lin Cannon was released by police today. This is the information that the Commissioner of Police, Allen Whylie, shared with the media this evening. Cannon and Doehm were transported to Belize City from San Pedro by boat where they were to […]

Special Envoy for Women and Children calls for proper investigation into death of teenage girl
The questionable death of Faye Lin Cannon is a tragic story, one that many believe could have been prevented. Resident of San Pedro Town have protested against the murder of Faye Lin on two occasions where they expressed that the matter was reported to the proper authorities. Special Envoy for Woman and Children Kim Simplis […]

Search intensifies for Belize City man reported missing
The search for Mark Pollard who has been missing continued today. Pollard was last seen last Monday, July 3 in the morning when he left his house in the city to go for a jog around five o’clock. He never returned home. The search for the 49 year old began on Wednesday last week, two […]

Improved cane translates to increase in income for farmers
The improved performance at the sugar mill will translate into a good pay day for sugar cane farmers. Mac McLachlan, Vice President for International Relations for the BSI/ASR Group says the cane payment for this latest crop is among the best that the industry has seen. Mac McLachlan – Vice President, BSI/ASR Group “The latest […]

Is discord on the horizon in the sugar industry?
The sugar crop flowed without much interruption, at least not by farmers, but that calm within the industry may soon come apart. As we reported last night, following a successful crop, the Belize Sugar Industry has proposed a Direct Consumption Sugar (DCS) expansion project. Direct Consumption sugars are sugars that are refined to a higher […]

BSI/ASR official says Strategic Development plan for sugar industry needs to be finalized
Vice President, BSI/ASR Group Mac McLachlan says that they are not proposing any changes in the way the revenue is shared with farmers, adding that the only change would be additional money to go around. The company has made out a list of things it seeks clarity on in the Commercial Agreement. Among these would […]

Bert Vasquez found guilty
A jury of seven men and two women deliberated for a little over two hours yesterday evening before it found 33 year old Bert Vasquez guilty of forcible abduction and aggravated assault of an indecent nature. The jury’s verdict was unanimous. Justice Adolph Lucas has deferred sentencing until July 21 in order to give Vasquez […]

Special Envoy for Women and Children says there is the need for sex education in schools
Today Belize joins the international community in commemorating World Population Day. The United Nation Population Fund along with the office of the Special Envoy for Women and Children have organized a national symposium on family planning under the theme, “Family Planning: Empowering People, Developing Nations.” Partners met in Belize City to discuss the overall goal […]

Belizean and Guatemalan officials working to break “car jacking” ring
Guatemalans Ervin Rene Huex Xiquen and Marlon Benedicto Portillo were involved in a shootout with San Ignacio police on Sunday. Xiquen was fatally shot while Portillo remains hospitalized under police guard. The men had a run in with police after they were caught getting away in a vehicle they stole from Erwin Jimenez. Jimenez was […]

Breaking Belize News

Nothing illegal about having 100 BDF uniforms
Almost a week after close to 100 BDF uniforms were found at a residence in Orange Walk, the two men police had detained in connection with the incident have been released and police are no closer to levying charges against anyone. Police had originally intercepted a Mexican who led police to the trove of uniforms at the house in Orange Walk. BDF Commander Brigadier General David Jones had originally heaved all the blame on the Ministry of Finance claiming that it was the Ministry’s responsibility to dispose of the uniforms.

Driver and sideman detained for possession of drugs
This morning around 10 am, police were conducting a vehicular checkpoint at the Establo Roundabout at the northern entrance of Orange Walk Town when a gray Ford van with was intercepted. Police searched the van and found (2) parcels of cannabis which amounted to (10) kilograms and (1) kilograms respectively.

David and Anke Doehm to be charged for “cruelty to a child”
The adoptive parents of 13 year old Faye Linn Cannon are the main suspects in the case of her death. Police informed the media today that in compliance with directives from the DPP, Anke and David Doehm will be jointly charged with the crime of “Cruelty to a child”.

Belize & Guatemala cooperating to solve cross border car theft crimes
Two Guatemalan bandits put their lives on the line on Saturday when they stole a pickup truck from a Belizean man and then engaged in a gun fight with police. One of the men succumbed to his injuries while the other is still receiving medical treatment.

Tourism industry continues to grow
Belize continues to attract increasing amounts of tourists, according to the latest overnight visitor statistics from the Belize Tourism Board. The BTB released its latest statistics this afternoon, showing overnight growth rates for the month of April, second quarter 2017 and for the first half of 2017.

Traffic accident in Corozal
A road traffic accident occurred a short while ago around the “Tumbaito” curve in Corozal District.

Bert Vasquez convicted of sexual assault, still faces trial for murder
Bert Vasquez, 33, the man accused of murdering 13-year-old Jasmine Lowe in 2012, has been found guilty by the Supreme Court of forcible abduction and aggravated sexual assault on a 16-year-old girl. On Monday it took the jury of seven men and two women, 2 hours to come to a unanimous guilty verdict for the May 2011 incident.

Senate Special Select Committee interrogates Rene Montero
This afternoon, Area Representative for Cayo Central and Minister of Works, Rene Montero appeared before the Senate Select Committee to answer questions regarding the Auditor General’s report into the Passport, Visa and Nationality Department for 2011-2013. Montero had requested facilitation of immigration documents for 7 different persons including the Harmush family.

Minor detained for home made gun
Today police busted a minor with a home made gun and 16 gauge cartridges with 3 live rounds during a predawn police operation in northern Belize.

Belmopan cop passed away from natural causes
The Belize Police Department is currently mourning the death of PC #1749 Michael Ical. According to our sources, he passed away last night from suspected natural causes. Ical joined the police department in May 2013 and was a member of the Belmopan Prosecution Branch.

ComPol says Major Crimes are Down
Yesterday, Commissioner of Police, Allen Whylie updated the nation on crime statistics for the period – January to June 2017. Although there has been numerous documented bloodshed across the country, police statistics showed that there was a slight decrease in murder. From January to June of this year, there were 70 murders. During this same period last year, there were 73 murders.

Bakery robber sent to prison
On Saturday, he robbed La Popular Bakery in Belize City of $175 and yesterday he was remanded to prison until September 19. According to court information, Jose Cocom, 24, stormed into the bakery armed with a gun and demanded cash but while fleeing the scene he was detained by police. He pled not guilty to this charge.

Blogs

Belize’s Cultural Celebrations: La Fiesta de San Joaquin
La Fiesta de San Joaquin is a cultural extravaganza celebrated in San Joaquin Village, Corozal in honor of the community’s patron saint. The fiesta commences on August 8th with the “corrida de la antocha” (torch marathon) from Bacalar, Quintana Roo to the village of San Joaquin, commemorating the cultural and historical ties between the two communities. The runners arrive on time to use the torch to light the veladoras for the first novenas (nine days of prayers). The fiesta culminates on August 16th with a mass, followed by a social feria with mechanical rides, traditional foods and beverages, and stalls with crafts and local products. A highlight of the feria is the opening ceremony where Miss San Joaquin is crowned, followed by cultural presentations and a dancehall where live bands are invited to entertain revelers.

5 Things that Make Me Happy to Be Home On Ambergris Caye
Saturday morning at 3:45am, my alarm went off. I threw off my big down comforter (it was in the 60s at night!) – time to head back home after 9 days in Barrington Rhode Island visiting my family. 6am Delta flight from tiny Providence airport to Atlanta (where everyone is SO important – in such a rush!) and then back to Belize. My original plan was to take the water taxi back to Ambergris Caye. I’d done it on my way to the states and it was totally easy. And way cheaper than the flight from Belize City to San Pedro. But it adds at least 2.5 hours to my journey and MAN…I just wanted to be home. So that leads me to my first reason that I am happy to be back home on North Ambergris Caye.

International Sources

Delaware-Sized Iceberg Detaches from the Larsen C Shelf
In a long-anticipated yet still-dramatic event, a chunk of ice nearly as big as Delaware has broken off from the Antarctic Peninsula. Satellite images from Wednesday, July 12, show that a slice of the Larsen C ice shelf covering about 1930 square miles has calved, or detached from the peninsula, over the past week (see Figure 1). The resulting iceberg is one of the 10 largest on record—not quite half the size of the world champion B-15 iceberg, which broke off from the Ross Ice Shelf in 2000. A longstanding rift in the Larsen C ice grew in accelerating fashion over this decade and especially over the past two years, lengthening from about 60 miles long in October 2015 to more than 100 miles long by May 2017. (The Guardian has a nice graphic showing the rift's progress over time.) The fracture extended to the base of the ice shelf, making it all but inevitable that the iceberg would form.

Taiwan announces visa-free entry for allies in Caribbean
The Government of Taiwan yesterday announced visa-free entry for nationals of its diplomatic allies in the Caribbean with immediate effect. According to Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this is being done to “demonstrate the closeness between Taiwan and its allies in the Caribbean” and “the principles of mutual benefit and reciprocity”. With this development, nationals of Belize, the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, St Kitts-Nevis, St Lucia, and St Vincent and the Grenadines will be given visa-exempt stays of up to 30 days. Meanwhile, nationals of El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, and Nicaragua will be granted visa-free stays of up to 90 days.

Answer nature's call from these stunning locations
If you are travelling to any of these spots it doesn't have to be a crappy experience. Here are 13 toilets that are worth travelling to. 12. Toilet Island, Belize: On usual days, one thinks what it would be like to own an island that is no less than any paradise. But an off-beat traveller might have to go an extra mile to discover an island that is famous for a fully functioning toilet.

BENQUE FIESTA – 51ST YEAR OF CELEBRATION!
This year marks the 51st year Benque Fiesta is being celebrated. Home to roughly 6500 +, this quaint and charming village comes alive as an influx of both locals and tourists head west to celebrate! Benque Fiesta is a celebration held annually at Benque Viejo, in honor of the patron saint ‘Our Lady of Mount Carmel’ (Nuestra Señora de Monte Carmelo). It is the largest and longest religious festival held in the Cayo District which started on July 7th and leads to July 16th, the Patrons day.

Videos

Belize, 4min.

Belize Scuba Diving Adventure, 2min.

Belize - San Pedro & Caye Caulker, 4.5min.

Belize 2017, 34min. Another wonderful vacation on Ambergris Caye (San Pedro) Belize! This year we were joined with guests, Jackie, Joanne, Pat, Andy, and Greg.

Bonefishing in Belize, 23min. Belize River Lodge Bonefish 2009.

Turtle Swimming in Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Belize, 1/2min. Turtle swimming in Hol Chan Marine Reserve, AmberGris Caye, Belize.

shark & Ray 2017 Belize, 1.5min.

Can I travel in the U.S. on my student visa? What if I have to travel home temporarily?, 3min. We got the answers for you!

July 12, 2017

BEL Partners with Belize Diabetes Association of New York to Provide Free Services in Belize

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

The San Pedro Sun

37 graduates of SPJC close 2017 graduation season
The 2017 graduation season ended on Saturday, July 8th, as the San Pedro Junior College (SPJC) held its 16th Commencement Exercise. Hosted at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium, 37 proud students dressed in their cap and gowns marched to the tune of Pomp and Circumstance. Under the theme, “Dreams stay big, worries stay small, never carry more than you can hold,” Alex Nuñez served as the Master of Ceremonies, welcoming the attendants to the special occasion. Parents, family members, friends, and special guests joined the graduates in singing the National Anthem. Abel Guerrero Sr. led the audience with the invocation, and Lucilla Margaret Villas delivered her salutatory address.

BTIA hosts 32nd Bi-annual General Meeting
On Thursday, July 6th, the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) held its 32nd Bi-Annual General Meeting at the George Price Centre in Belmopan City. The event’s main objective was to update membership on the Association’s accomplishments over the past six months of the year. It also offered an opportunity for members to dialogue on current issues, and challenges,and to voice their concerns. Master of Ceremonies Javier Gutierrez welcomed all BTIA members, industry partners and stakeholders from the public and private sector. After a devotional on tourism and an invocation by Pastor Lee Brockinton, Shanika Moir sang the National Anthem.

San Pedro Police rule out homicide in Plutarco Noralez’ death
Although initial investigations indicated that Noralez was murdered, Officer in Charge of the Coastal Executive Unit, Superintendent Henry Jemmott, indicated that there was no foul play. “Noralez had no fixed address and used to wander around Boca del Rio Park. He is a frequent drinker. We canvassed the area and recorded several statements, but nothing indicated that anyone had caused harm to him. Also, one person stated that he had developed the swelling on his neck overtime, and was advised to check on it at the doctor. After gathering this information, we have submitted it to the Director of Public Prosecutions,” said Jemmott.

Ambergris Today

Happy 20th Anniversary Casa Pan Dulce
Casa Pan Dulce is today, July 11, 2017, celebrating 20 years of service in the community of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. In honor of this celebration the bakery is offering a 20% discount on all products here in San Pedro and 10% in San Ignacio and Santa Elena. As the community gathers to join the celebration Casa Pan Dulce is giving out cupcakes and gifts, conducting cake raffles are and also introducing new products. Gift cards are also available at any amount. “A heartfelt ‘Thank You’ to the community of San Pedro for supporting us for the past 20 years. Because of you all we are successful today and we look forward to the future,” stated Andre Perez, owner of Casa Pan Dulce. “We hope to continue improving, better quality products, new product and efficiency. As San Pedro grows, we grow and we hope to continue being the number one bakery on the island.”

BDF Conducts First Helicopter Rescue Mission - 3 Children Saved
The Ministry of Defence wishes to inform the public that the Belize Defence Force Air Wing (BDF AW) carried out its first Rescue Mission using the UH1H, on July 8, 2017. The mission was carried out in the village of San Benito Poite in the Toledo District, where three children, ages 10, 14 and 16 years old, were rescued. The three children went on a fishing expedition and were stranded on the far bank of the Poite River that had crested above normal due to a flash flood. As a result, the Hammock Bridge was damaged making it unusable and the main bridge was submerged making it impassable.

That's One Giant Lobster!!!
Yes, Belize is obsessed with lobster and when the season opens everyone enjoys. With great measures taken to protect the species during a closed season, the lobster thrives in Belize and big ones like this are a special treat. A great catch by Roberto Canul, pictured above.

Counterfeit Vick VapoRub Identified In Belize
The Office of Director of Health Services of the Ministry of Health just recently posted an advisory on their Facebook Page concerning the identification of counterfeit Vick VapoRub. “It is an over-the-counter produce in Belize, but which nonetheless can bring about other health issues with much less benefits than we use them for in Belize,” stated the Ministry on the post. “The counterfeit product is being reported by Venezuelan authorities and reminds us to remain vigilant for all the many products currently in our market.”

Misc Belizean Sources

Welcome meeting with the new OC of the Caye Caulker Police Station Today
The Caye Caulker Village Council is inviting the public and business owners to a welcome meeting with the new OC of the Caye Caulker Police Station, on Wednesday July 12 at 6:00 p.m. Please make an effort to attend! Thank you. Venue: COMMUNITY CENTER

Yarborough Waterfront Development Plan Public Consultation
The Belize City House of Culture and the Downtown Rejuvenation Project along with its partners: Belize City Council, NICH, MTCA and Taiwan ICDF have adopted the enhancement of the Yarborough Football Field under the initiative of the Yarborough Waterfront Development Project. This project is one of the Downtown Rejuvenation Project's hard component initiatives to enhance and rejuvenate the downtown area. The purpose of ths public consultation is to present to the public the latest plans for the Yarborough Football Field enhancement. This plan was developed based on the input from our last public consutlation meeting on March 2nd at the House of Culture. All are invited! Wednesday, July 19 at 6 PM - 8 PM, Government House ~ House of Culture, Regent Street, Belize City, Belize.

Minister of NEMO and Transport Hon Edmond Castro Delivers Opening Remarks at Public Meeting by CDB, GOB and BWS on Belize River Valley Water Project Completion
A public meeting in the village of Double Head Cabbage Monday afternoon, July 10, 2017, organized by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) in conjunction with the Government of Belize (GOB) and Belize Water Services (BWS), was well attended by residents from villages throughout the area. The purpose of the meeting was to conduct a review and assessment on the completion of the Belize River Valley Water Project, its impact on the communities, and issues relating to maintenance and expansion.

Top P.S.E. scorers of San Pedro Town and Caye Caulker recognized
On Friday, July 7, 2017, Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr., Minister of Tourism & Civil Aviation, and Area Representative of Belize Rural South, awarded the top scorers of the P.S.E. of San Pedro Town and Caye Caulker with a certificate and a token for their hard work and dedication in making the municipalities, school, friends and family proud for their achievement. Mayor Daniel Guerrero was on site to wish them congratulations and wish them the best on their journey through high school. Making proud achievers are: Collin William Greif from the Island Academy, Kiona Michelle Sankar from the San Pedro R.C. School and Dylan Tyler Pacheco from Caye Caulker Roman Catholic School.

Ancient World Week
The Institute of Archaeology (NICH) and Northwestern University through the Corozal House of Culture presents Ancient World Week, July 17-20, 2017, at the House of Culture. Workshops, lectures, and site visit.

Art in the Park
Art in the Park is a monthly event sponsored by COLCHA. Local artists display and sell their creations. It is held in downtown Corozal Town in Central Park, beginning about 5pm. For more information call 620-1572.

BTL in San Pedro Ambergris Caye donates to Raise Me Up
Belize Telemedia Limited comes through for the children of the island! Raise Me Up has received a $3,500 donation to go towards the San Pedro Kids Club, an after-school activities program to help educate children in social skills, sportmanship, etc. The program currently has over 200 registered children, and will resume it's regular schedule when the school year commences again. Thank you, BTL, for being an active company that is taking initiative in being a great leader in our community! Kudos!

Rowan receives Fervent Love of Lives Award
Words cannot describe how happy we are to share Rowan's ceremony today in New York, as he received the Fervent Love of Lives Award from Taiwan's Cho Ta-kuan Foundation! Rowan, you truly represent the spirit of the Foundation and this Award: “be nice to yourself—love your life; be nice to others—respect their lives; be nice to nature—protect the life of earth.”

YOUNG BELIZEAN FOOTBALL PLAYERS TAKE PART IN U.S. SOCCER EVENT
For most of the Warriors FC players, the trip marks their first trip by air and first time in the United StatesBELIZE CITY, Belize—Sixteen young soccer players from Belize are in Colorado Springs, Colorado to take part in Rush Fest, an international youth soccer camp.The Warriors FC players are at-risk youth from across Belize. Playing as Rush Belize, the 12 and 13-year-olds will have the opportunity train with and compete against U.S. teams and teams from other countries as part of the event. In its first match-up, on July 10, Rush Belize defeated Michigan Rush 8-0.Under the leadership of Country Director Daniel Fabro, Warriors FC recently became the Belize affiliate of Rush Soccer.

Counterfeit Vicks
The issue of pharmaceuticals remains a central issue and our key issue remains safeguarding the health of all. This was identified as counterfeit Vicks, an OTC in Belize but which nonetheless can bring about other health issues with much less benefits than we use them for in Belize. The counterfeit product is being reported by Venezuelan authorities and reminds us to remain vigilant for all the many products currently in our market. The work continues.

Corozal Wholesale Farmer's Market
The H metal frames and purlins going up. It is looking fantastic.

American Circus in Corozal this week
The American Circus continues its performances this weekend in Corozal. Here is your chance to visit us and enjoy the many events taking place in Corozal this weekend. Enjoy and have plenty of fun!!

Shape Our Future - Full Day of Fun for Hope
July 15 – July 16, Lion's Den in San Pedro. We, the people of Belize, must make a pledge to prevent what happened to Faye Lin Cannon from ever happening again! If the recent horrific tragedy has affected you, please help us to raise funds to finish the Hope Haven and SHINE Center. Come enjoy BBQ, stewed chicken and soup, which we will have for sale. BEER & DRINK specials? We've got 'em! LIVE MUSIC from the Island's favorite musicians & JLA sounds, as well! There will be games, raffles and lots of information on the Raise Me Up organization and the Hope Haven children's home. Let's come together in Faye's honor and restore our faith in the community. Every child must be fed, educated and able to sleep in peace!

PANERRIFIX Steel Band in Corozal
Happening this weekend in Corozal. You don't want to miss it. We make a call to Orange Walk and San Pedro, Ambergris Caye to attend. Corozal's 3 days BIG event. The PANERRIFIX Steel Band. See them live at the National Corn & BBQ Festival.

Belmopan Day 2017
Belmopan Day is fast approaching. It'll be on Saturday, August 5th, at Mae Gordon Park. There will be food and fun for everyone. Belmopan's 47th anniversary party starts at 10:00am.

Belize Fishing Report July 3rd - July 9th
An entire week filled with beautiful days and hungry bonefish. New and seasoned fly fishing anglers landed many bonefish. Some even had bonefish catch and release counts in double digits. This fishery always produces tons of opportunities for bone fishermen and fisherwomen. Come join in on the bonefishing fun.

Channel 7

US Couple Transferred To Belize City
Today it caused quite a stir in downtown Belize City when the US couple held for the death of their daughter, Anke and David Doehm were transferred to Belize City. Police brought the couple via boat to Centre Point building on North Front Street at around 11:30 this morning. They wore handcuffs and were escorted into the building, but then put back in the boat when too much of a media hubbub was created. The couple was then taken to another location where they were put in a police vehicle. As we understand it, David Doehm has been remanded for drug possession since he could not pay the $185.00 dollar fine he got yesterday when he pleaded guilty to having valium without a prescription.

Why Didn't Police Arrest For Those BDF Uniforms?
The Commissioner also commented on that case of the close to 100 BDF uniforms which turned up last week at a private residence in Orange Walk. As we've told you, the majority of the uniforms were written off by the BDF - and the procedure is that the Ministry of Finance should have destroyed almost 1200 uniforms it received from the BDF. Yesterday the Financial Secretary Joe Waight conceded that there was a breakdown in procedure - what he called a "serious breach", because one of the men it contracted to do the disposal, Sarco Torres ended up with almost 100 of the uniforms at his home in Orange Walk Town. More interestingly, a Mexican was found with a bundle of the uniforms last Thursday heading to Botes, Mexico. And while all the uniforms were supposed to be old and unserviceable, one of the new type of British style camouflage uniforms was in the mix - which raises all kinds of questions.

Commissioner Speaks About Guatemalan Bandits
The media also asked about was the gunfight between Cayo Police and armed Guatemalan car-thieves. As we told you, on Saturday afternoon, police chased the 2 bandits who stole a pickup truck on the Chaa Creek Road. The bandits were trying to get the vehicle across the border, but they lost control and crashed on the Calla Creek Road. The thieves tried to flee on foot, but they ended up in a shootout with police, and one of them was fatally injured. While the professional standards branch has launched an investigation to look at the use of deadly force, there is the criminal investigation as well.

Jury: Bert Vasquez Is Guilty
When we left you last night a jury was deliberating the fate of Bert Vasquez. Well, after two hours, the jury of 7 men and 2 women unanimously found the 33 year old guilty of forcible abduction and aggravated assault of an indecent nature. He returns to court next week Friday July 21st for sentencing. It's the first conviction for the alleged girl killer and a major setback for his defense team. The victory is equally significant for prosecutor, Crown Counsel Sherigne Rodriguez who told us about the case today:... Sherigne Rodriguez, Crown Counsel - DPP's Office: "The reaction I had was that justice was served. The jury came to the right conclusion and based on the evidence presented to them."

Where are The Doehm's?
At the top of the news, we showed you how the Police Commissioner said that investigators had either released Americans David and Anke Doehm, or they intended to do so shortly. Well, we've received reports from other official sources which say that the Commissioner may have been misinformed. We're told that the husband and wife have not been released, and are still in police custody. We'll keep searching for confirmation before the end of the news.

The Desperate Search For Mark Pollard Continues
It's been 8 days since Lake I resident, Mark Pollard, went missing after an early morning run. Pollard, who is well known in his community and throughout Belize City for his involvement in carnival activities and sports, went for a routine run to the Haulover Creek Bridge at around 5 o'clock on Monday morning, but never returned home. This security footage, taken from the Buca Shell Gas Station at Mile 2 on the Philip Goldson Highway, shows him walking past the gas station in a pair of orange shorts at 5:27 AM. He was northbound, presumably to the Haulover Bridge. That is the last record of him alive - and his family is asking anyone who may have been on the road at that time, or may have seen him to please help them with information. Today, we found his family and close in multiple search parties along the northern highway looking for clues. We asked them how the search has been going.

Powerful FFB General Secretary Gone
For years, as the General Secretary of the Football Federation of Belize - Michael Blease was considered the most powerful man in football. And he made many enemies - who swore that once his ally and former President Rupert Vicente was gone, Blease would follow. But that didn't happen, and Blease survived for over a year under acting President Marlon Kuylen. But that run is done. 7News has confirmed that Please was terminated by the League Executive yesterday. Reports say that the executive could be planning a complete purge and as many as four or five other FFB staffers could also be shown the door.

Responding To Teenage Pregnancy
Sex isn't something most of us feel open and comfortable talking to our kids about - but in reality, from a young age, many of them are already sexually aware, and engaging in sexual activity, leaving some very young girls pregnant. Statistics show that teenage pregnancies are on the rise. So the representatives from the United Nations Populations Fund and the office of the Special Envoy for Women and Children are working on a plan to address this issue. Courtney Weatherburne has more details. Ishell West, Young Parent: "I was 14 years old when I got pregnant, had my child at 15 years I joined the youth enhancement services program where I must say they helped me mentally and physically and now today I am a proud graduate from high school where I now think I will pursue my goals in tertiary education if I don't leave the country."

Special Envoy Speaks On San Pedro Couple
As we told you at the top of this segment, just a few hours ago, the Commissioner of police said that David And Anke Doehm had been released - but other senior sources tell us otherwise tonight. And that very public confusion arises - in part - because this case is under such close public scrutiny. Indeed, the death of 13 year old Faye Lin Cannon - in circumstances of extreme abuse - has sent waves of outrage across the country. Today Special Envoy for Women and Children Kim Simplis Barrow commented on this case. Barrow says this tragic case gives a reminder that more social workers are needed to better follow up on these cases of child abuse:

Murder for 2017 is Down, Just Slightly
Earlier in the news, we showed you the comments from Police Commissioner Allen Whylie on 3 incidents that have been making the evening news since late last week. We got the opportunity to ask those questions when he held a joint press conference with Police Minister Elodio Aragon Jr. and CEO George Lovell. They were discussing the crime statistics for the past 6 months when compared to the same period last year. Here's what the Police Commissioner had to say about the murder total which is down by 3: Allen Whylie - Commissioner of Police: "The statistics that was released showed that in terms of major incidents for murders, it shows that from January to June 2016 we had 73, compared to 2017 where we had 70 at that time. It terms of rape it shows for 2016 up to the end of January we had cases where at the end of June 2017 we had 8 cases. In terms of robbery it showed that we had 98 cases of robbery in 2016 compared to 92 cases in 2017. In terms of burglary it showed that we had 389 cases reported compared to 329 at the end of June 2017 and in terms of theft it showed that we had 51 cases reported at the end of June 2016 compared to 34 cases at the end of June 2017."

Police Seizures Are Up
And while murders make the nightly news, we also report regularly on the seizures of drugs, guns, and ammunition that the cops make while doing good police work. This afternoon, the Commissioner gave us the running tally of illegal items that they have gotten off the streets: Allen Whylie - Commissioner of Police: "That release also showed what we have done in terms of our drug interdiction efforts and it also showed the number of firearms seized. We've seized 70 firearms at this time compare to 90 last year and we've also seized 1,117 assorted rounds of ammunition for 2017 compared to 1,316 assorted. Firearms stole to date, we've had 9 firearms reported stolen compared to 29 that was reported stolen at the end of 2016 June."

Robbed La Popular
Today 24 year old Jose Cocom appeared in the Magistrate's Court where he was charged for robbery. Cocom is accused of holding up a cashier inside La Popular Bakery at gun point and stealing $175 in cash. Shortly after making his escape, Cocom was caught by police, but he told them that his name was Edwardo Diaz, causing the cops to also charge him with a mischievous act, which he pled guilty to. He was fined $100 for that offense.

Cops Got Laptops
About two and a half weeks ago, Greta Travis, a resident of the Plantation area in the Stann Creek District, reported to police that two Hispanic men broke into her home, assaulted her and stole two laptops and four phones. Today, Placencia and Santa Cruz police conducted a predawn operation in Santa Cruz village, where they recovered Travis' stolen property, along with 5 other laptops, a CPU and 5 additional cell phones. Four persons have been detained pending charges.

Police: Compol Wrong, Doehms Still Detained
Before the break, we told you how the Commissioner got it wrong when he said that Americans David and Anke Doehm were released from police custody. Here's his exact words from this evening, when he spoke on the case: Allen Whylie - Commissioner of Police: "He, along with his wife I understand were transported to Belize City today. He would have been taken to the prison to serve his time, but I understand that his fine has since been paid."

Drowning Out West
A Guatemalan man was killed on the calla Creek Road on Saturday. And yesterday evening, the body of Guatemalan 47-year-old Miguel Sontay Cuyuch was found near the riverside in the area of the bus terminal in Benque Viejo Town. But, no foul play is suspected. Police say he went for a Wim and drowned.

Grandmaster Going Back To The Start
If you've been watching 7News long enough - you'll remember way back in the late 90's when we used to put the Grandmaster Leroy Young on the news every Friday. It was just a loose experiment in television entertainment, and he would throw down a few verses of poetry. We mostly had no idea what we were doing, and he was winging it too - except that the poems he put out in that period achieved a kind of social currency which poetry rarely does. What we mean is, regular folks were reciting his poems in the street, using his expressions in everyday conversations.

Song Competition Goes To Griga
For most of the last decade, the Belize and Carnival Song Competitions have marked the start of the September celebrations season. This year, the competition will be moving from the Memorial Park to the Culture Capital of Dangriga. Today, we spoke Troy Tingling, one of the competition organizers, about this patriotic event... The competition has served as a launching pad for some of the country's most well-known artists including Ernestine Carballo and Cocono Bwai.

Footballers Feeling The Rush
A youth football club called Warriors FC are making Belize proud at an international youth soccer camp in Colorado Springs called the Rush Fest. The team of 16 Belize City at-risk youth are competing against US teams and have already won their first match up against a Michigan team with a commanding score of 8 to nil. Apart from the win, it is the first time these kids have traveled to the US. Country Director Daniel Fabro said in a release "The entire experience will be life-changing for these kids, most of whom come from challenging backgrounds."

Channel 5

Accused David and Anke Doehm released, but back in police custody
There are new developments into the American couple, David and Anke Doehm, who was detained for questioning last week in the wake of the suspicious death of Faye Lin Cannon, [...]

Still no charges, D.P.P. have to final say
Charges relating to the alleged murder of adopted daughter Faye Lin Cannon are yet to be levied. From what we have learnt, there is not enough evidence as to who [...]

Former Hawaii neighbor of Doehms reveals extent of child abuse
As the coverage of this very tragic death continues, a former neighbor of the Doehms provides details on the life of the couple in Hawaii before they moved to San [...]

Special Envoy calls for more social workers to meet demand
The death of Faye Lin Cannon has sparked response from all corners. On Monday the Human Development issued a lengthy release on the allegations made against the department. Those allegations [...]

Police, B.D.F. still following uniforms case; was possession a crime?
The supply of used B.D.F. uniforms and outboard engines and its mysterious appearance in the possession of civilians, particularly a Mexican national and two Belizeans, in Orange Walk, continues to [...]

Police interested in communication between high-ranking soldier and one of accused
When asked whether the police department is investigating a string of text messages exchanged between the Mexican national and a high-ranking B.D.F. official while in detention, ComPol Whylie said he [...]

Soldier implicated by text clams up to News Five
News Five has obtained the video purportedly showing multiple communications between a high-level soldier of the Belize Defence Force and one of the persons found on Friday with used battle [...]

Police working with Guat counterparts to stop vehicle theft
The body of thirty-seven-year-old Ervin Rene Huex awaits transfer to Guatemala, following a deadly shootout on Saturday with Belizean law enforcement. Huex was one of two thieves who robbed a [...]

Chasing murderers, police vow crackdown on criminal element
The biennial crime statistics for the first half of 2017 were released on Monday, and the report indicates that the number of murders have only reduced marginally when compared to [...]

Search intensifies for Mark Pollard, 49
A search for a Belize City man continues along the highway as well as on the waters. Mark Pollard was last alive on Monday, July third, when he set out [...]

52 year old charged for sex with minor, 15
A fifty-two-year-old man is accused of having sex with a fifteen-year old inside his vehicle on Sunday on the Phillip Goldson Highway. This afternoon, Jose Lino Ardon, a resident of [...]

B.S.I. hails successful season, prepares for coming quota storm
‘King Sugar’ is especially sweet this year in the Corozal and Orange Walk Districts. The Tower Hill Factory produced a record-breaking one hundred and forty-four thousand tons of sugar, passing [...]

Producers ask Cane Farmers’ Association to hold off on changes to agreement
The Corozal Sugar Cane Producers’ Union and Progressive Cane Farmers Association based in Orange Walk have agreed with Belize Sugar Industries and American Sugar Refining to continue with the commercial [...]

Manuel Heredia Jr. ready for Senate inquiry
Tourism Minister Manuel Heredia Junior and his colleague Rene Montero appear on Wednesday before the Senate Special Select Committee on Immigration. The Belize Rural South area representative is expected to [...]

UNFPA tackles teen pregnancy and family planning
Across the world July eleventh is observed as World Population Day. It is a day used to draw attention on the urgency and importance of population issues. Since the day [...]

The ‘Grandmaster’ is honored with new DVD
In chess, the title grandmaster is the highest awarded and once achieved, is held for life. It seems an apt description for Belize’s own Leroy Young, though his specialty is [...]

Michael Blease out as FFB General Secretary?
Michael Blease could be on his way out as General Secretary of the Football Federation of Belize as soon as tomorrow, Wednesday. News Five has been informed that the executive [...]

Week three of KTV the Remix coming your way!
Another round of exciting competition begins shortly at the Bliss Institute. Participants are all primed up to take on this week’s challenge and face each other in the genre of [...]

LOVE FM

American couple face minor charge
American couple Anke Cannon and David Doehm were arraigned before a San Pedro magistrate this evening. However, it was not for the homicide of Cannon’s adopted daughter, 13 year old Faye Lynn Cannon but for a drug matter. When San Pedro police searched the couple’s condo at Grand Caribe, they found valium, a controlled drug […]

Still no charges for American couple in death of adopted daughter
After paying the fine of one hundred and eighty five dollars for the charge of possession of control drugs, Anke Cannon and Doehm were released. As they stepped out of the San Pedro police stationed they were re-arrested and will remain in detention for another forty eight hours. Cannon and Doehm are considered as prime […]

Department of Human Services responds to allegations of inaction in Cannon case
The death of 13-year-old, Faye Lin Cannon last week in San Pedro has dominated the headlines as well as on social media. Today the Ministry of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation issued a release saying it joins the nation in grieving the teenager’s death. The Department says it is collaborating with the San […]

San Pedro Mayor and area representative speak on teenager’s death
Many island residents say they would see what Faye Lynn Cannon and her three adopted sisters would go through with their adoptive mother Anke Cannon and her boyfriend David Doehm. San Pedro Town Mayor Daniel Guerrero says he knew the family but saw no signs of any abuse. Daniel Guerrero – Mayor, San Pedro Town […]

Belize River Valley Water project assessed
The Belize River Valley Water project was launched in 2010 by the Government in conjunction with the Caribbean Development Bank, CDB, and has seen nine communities in the Belize River Valley gain access to potable water. By 2012, the Belize Water Services was involved and the actual ground work started in 2013. Today, the major […]

2016/2017 sugar crop deemed a success
The 2016/2017 sugar crop has closed with a record performance. As we have reported before, this crop which only extended five more days than last year to 208 days, saw the industry produce more sugar than has ever been produced before, using far less sugar cane. Vice President for International Relations for the ASR Group, […]

BSI/ASR proposes new strategy for industry sustainability
And as the factory performs its best yet, it comes at a trying time for the industry. This year in October, Belize loses its preferential prices on the EU market and sugar prices continue to plummet on the world market. The changes on the EU market however are not a surprise; it is something that […]

Guatemalan national fatally shot by Police
A Guatemalan national was shot and killed by Police on Saturday morning. Assistant Commissioner of Police Chester Williams, Officer Commanding Professional Standards Branch, today updated the media on the weekend incident. ACP Chester Williams – OC, Professional Standards Branch “On Saturday afternoon one Edwin Jimenez was the driver of a black Toyota Hilux on the […]

BDF helicopter used to rescue trio from flood waters
Three children from the Toledo District had to be rescued by the Belize Defence Force last Saturday. According to the BDF, the UH1H was pressed into use for its first rescue mission when the three children, ages ten, fourteen and sixteen went on a fishing expedition and got stranded on the far bank of the […]

Man knocked down and killed
Rene Guiterrez was knocked down and killed early yesterday morning on the Phillip Goldson Highway. It happened about four thirty when 37 year old Anthony Humes was driving a Wingle pickup truck near Caribbean Tires. Police say Guiterrez was on a motorcycle when he was knocked down. He died on the scene. Humes was leaving […]

Amandala

San Pedro hit endangers City gang truce
Julian Tun, 16, was gunned down on Saturday night in San Pedro Town and from all accounts, it appeared that he was lured to his death in his search for a sexual encounter. Tun was last seen alive by his family on Saturday morning when he left his home in Hope Creek, Stann Creek District, indicating that he was going to San Pedro to fish for lobster. A review of his social media accounts revealed otherwise. He had travelled to San Pedro to meet a young, attractive Hispanic woman whom he added as a friend on Facebook less than a month ago. That woman, believed to be romantically linked to a prominent George Street associate, told Tun via Facebook messenger that she had secured a room at the Banana Beach Resort so that they could have a night together.

Guilty!
A jury of 7 men and 2 women deliberated for a little over two hours before returning to the courtroom of Supreme Court Justice Adolph Lucas to announce a unanimous guilty verdict in the trial of Bert Vasquez, who was indicted for forcible abduction and aggravated assault of a sexual nature. Initially, Vasquez was charged with harm, but Justice Lucas removed that charge from the jury and instructed them to only deliberate on two counts of the indictment. Justice Lucas has set July 21 as sentencing date, after the court hears mitigation pleas for Vasquez. The abduction occurred on Friday, May 13, 2011. The victim, a 16-year-old girl at the time, was at the Pound Yard Bridge waiting for a bus to take her home to Ladyville, when along came Vasquez.

Guatemalan Hilux thieves shot by police; 1 died, 1 survived
A Guatemalan man is dead and another Guatemalan man remains hospitalized after a shootout with police on Saturday afternoon. Information to Amandala is that just before 2:00 p.m., Edwin Jimenez (no age provided) was driving his Toyota Hilux on the Calla Creek Road when he came to a stop because several large rocks were scattered across the road. Jimenez exited his vehicle in an attempt to clear the road, but two armed men pounced on him and stole his vehicle, valued at $30,000. Assistant Commissioner of Police and the Officer Commanding the Police Professional and Standards Branch, Chester Williams, today told the media that Jimenez then contacted his relatives in Bullet Tree Falls, who alerted police, who immediately set up a checkpoint.

Belize alerted that gonorrhea is becoming increasingly untreatable
Gonorrhea is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) afflicting almost 80 million people globally, according to data published recently by the World Health Organization (WHO). Whereas there is no official information available to us to indicate how many infections occurred last year in Belize (the last public report of 2013 said there were 13 cases, 12 of them reported in males), it is known that it is also one of the leading STIs in Belize, along with, trichomoniasis, syphilis and chlamydia. So a pattern of increasing drug-resistance in Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacteria which causes the infection, is of concern to Belize. Director of Health Services (DHS), Dr. Marvin Manzanero, told our newspaper today that increased levels of drug-resistance have been noted, particularly in the Americas, to medications usually administered to treat the infection, and this, he said, also has to do with the misuse of antibiotics for treating ailments. However, in Belize, it is often treated with the traditional drug – penicillin.

San Pedranos demand justice for death of girl, 13, who died from physical and sexual abuse
David and Anke Dohme, the adoptive parents of Faye Lin Cannon, 13, who was found dead on her bed in her room last Monday in San Pedro, were charged with drug possession of valium, a prescription drug for which he had no prescription, in the San Pedro Magistrate’s Court this afternoon. David pleaded guilty and was fined $185 plus $5 cost of court. Charges were withdrawn from Anke because her husband pleaded guilty. Police said that as the couple were released by the court, they were detained for further investigation into Cannon’s death, which police have ruled as murder.

71 murders as of July 5, 2017: BCO
Based on data accessed from the Belize Crime Observatory (BCO), an official source of information, major crimes are down for the first half of 2017, with murders down by an approximate 4% and property crimes—robberies, burglaries and thefts—down by almost 18%. At the time of this report, the Police Department had not yet issued the mid-year crime statistics, but we have been told that our request made last week is being addressed. A quick summary published by the BCO indicates that as of July 5, 2017, there were 43 reports of sexual violence, 71 murders, 93 robberies, 335 burglaries, and 343 incidences of theft. The total is 885 incidences of major crimes for the period January 1, 2017 to July 5, 2017.

U20 Female Central American Volleyball Championship in Belize, July 19-22
Preparations are being finalized, as Belize gets ready to host the U20 Female Central American Volleyball Championship, which will be held July 19 to 22 at the SCA Multipurpose Center. All seven Central American countries (Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama) will be attending. With only just over a week remaining to the start of the competition, Team Belize is ready and looking forward to a great competition. The members of the final 12 players and coaching staff members for Team Belize are: Allyana Musa (captain), Kori Diego, Alia Alvarez, Alexis Burn, Ayah Safa, Amberly Marin, Ayana Godfrey, Mya Musa, Julianna Ramos, Zazie McKenzie, Fatoumata Camara, Gareth Bruce. Head Coach, Prof. Delio Arruebarrena of Cuba; coaches Lupita Quan and Nelissa Ramirez; and manager, Kelsey Balderamos.

Benque Vets take lead at Week 6 of National Over-40 Tournament
The single round-robin regular season is fast winding down in the Belize National Over-40 Football Tournament 2017, and after Week 6 games this past weekend, Benque Vets FC have taken the standings lead and a sure spot in the Top-4 semifinal playoffs. Two Belize City based teams, Kulture Yabra and Pickstock Lake have a backmatch in hand, but Pickstock Lake is definitely out of playoff contention. (See standings below.) There are many possibilities in the final week of Group Stage, as 6 teams are still in the scramble for 3 remaining playoff spots. Pickstock Lake can only be a spoiler, as they are still in the hunt for their first win of the season.

Belize U-13 ballers, Warriors FC (Rush Belize) fly the “iron bird” to Colorado, USA
Taking to the “friendly skies” shortly after 1:00 p.m. yesterday afternoon on board Southwest Airlines was a group of young Belize footballers, most on their first ever airplane ride; and their destination was Colorado Springs, Colorado, U.S.A., where they are scheduled to participate in “Rush Fest”, an under 13 football tournament from July 9 to 14. The 20-member delegation was headed by Daniel Fabro, Country Director for Warriors FC (Rush Belize), who established the connection to become the Belize affiliate of Rush Soccer (www.rushsoccer.com) which is headquartered in the USA. According to his letter seeking support for the venture from the local business community, Fabro said, “Rush International will cover lodging, some food and game uniforms. We now need to raise funds to cover the cost of air travel, food, passports, visas and other miscellaneous expenses… The players selected are diverse and come from different parts of the country.”

BAGA 2017 World Cup
Team captain Tony Zabaneh made the Belize/Americans great again during the Belize Amateur Golf Association (BAGA) 2017 World Cup Tournament held June 24th at Roaring River Golf Course. The format consisted of three nine-hole rounds of competition: 1. Two-person scramble; 2. Two-person alternate shot; and 3. Singles. The Belize/Americans won 17 matches, while the UK/Rest of the World won 8. The final results do not reflect the ferocity of the competition through the first two rounds, at which point the Belize/Americans were up by only one match. The Belize/American team designated Pam Guthoff the Team Hero!… Congratulations to all the competitors that persevered through the weather to make this another fun tournament!

Editorial: Church and state – God and man
If Henry VIII of England had been an African king, European historians, commentators, and writers would no doubt have had themselves a fine time over the centuries making a mockery of this incredibly depraved monarch who declared himself the head of the English church in 1534. As things unfolded, however, the British built an international colonial empire which poured fabulous wealth into their island kingdom, and no one in the “developed world” would expose Henry VIII and the British system for what it was: the use of the God concept to bless the most vile of crimes against humanity. When the so-called Pilgrims sailed from Plymouth, England, to the northeastern shores of what we now call the United States of America in 1620, it was to escape religious persecution in the island kingdom. And so it was that when the Founding Fathers of the United States fought for their independence from Great Britain and wrote the American Constitution a century and a half after the ship Mayflower landed in America, they specifically and explicitly separated the church from the state.

BELIZEAN LEGENDS SHINING STARS!
When you are persistent and patient there are many credible things that come your way. This awesome story about a renaissance man named Lennox Samuels who hails from Belizean shores was intended to be written some thirty years ago. And through the kind patronage of some very good friends, it has finally come to view and to you, the Belizean Legends audience. Early in my migration from Belize to the Windy City of Chicago, Illinois in the United States in 1981, one of my brothers had introduced me to a Belizean brother, Calvin Flowers, studying medicine at the University of Chicago. It was an opportunity of a lifetime that was given to me in concern for my educational pursuits since yours truly’s journey had begun as a medical student and later ended up as one in the field of journalism.

More questions than answers
On Thursday, police conducted a search on a Mexican man who was found in possession of a BDF uniform. Police detained him and asked him where he had gotten the uniform. He directed them to a home in Baeza Alley, Orange Walk Town. On Friday, Orange Walk police visited that home and conducted a search which led to the discovery of almost one hundred uniforms and several pieces of boating equipment. Two men who lived at the house were later detained.

Breaking Belize News

Elderly woman robbed in Benque; community and police capture culprit
This morning around 9:30, an elderly woman was robbed near her home in Benque Viejo Town. Neighbors and community members came to the rescue of the woman and chased the culprit. He ran and jumped over some fences but the Benque residents continued chasing him with stones, sticks and machetes.

American couple suspected of killing adopted daughter released and re-detained
The American couple currently being investigated for the death of their 13-year-old adopted daughter, Faye Lin Cannon, were charged and arraigned in San Pedro Magistrate’s court for an unrelated, minor offense as investigators scramble to find evidence to levy charges in connection with Cannon’s death. David and Anke Doehm were arraigned in court yesterday on a single charge of possession of a controlled drug for having Valium in their house without a prescription.

Search for Mark Pollard intensifies
Mark Pollard has been missing since Tuesday, July 4. It has now been seven days since he disappeared and the family is extremely worried. Pollard was last seen before he went jogging. He was suppose to go jogging around the Haulover bridge but hasn’t been seen or heard from since.

Guatemalan drowns in Mopan river
Last night, police found the body of a man near the riverside in the area of the bus terminal on George Street in Benque Viejo Town.

CDB, GOB and BWS hold public meeting in Double Head Cabbage
A public meeting was held in the village of Double Head Cabbage yesterday afternoon, organized by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) in conjunction with the Government of Belize (GOB) and Belize Water Services (BWS). It was well attended by residents from villages throughout the area. The purpose of the meeting was to conduct a review and assessment on the completion of the Belize River Valley Water Project, its impact on the communities and issues relating to maintenance and expansion.

Belmopan police and business community partner to offer summer jobs
The Belmopan Police Department, in collaboration with the business community of that municipality, is offering summer jobs to children between the ages of 9-15. Officer Commanding Belmopan Police, Sr. Supt. Howell Gillett said that they are targeting the less fortunate kids who must be living in Belmopan City or any of the 12 surrounding villages (Frank’s Eddy, St Matthews, Cotton Tree, More Tomorrow, St Margaret’s, Armenia, Valley of Peace, Roaring Creek, Camalote, Teakettle, Ontario and Blackman Eddy village).

BDF conducts first rescue mission using UH1H Helicopter
The Ministry of Defense reported that the Belize Defense Force Air Wing (BDF AW) carried out its first rescue mission using its new UH1H helicopter on July 8th, 2017. The mission was carried out in the village of San Benito Poite in the Toledo district where three children, ages 10, 14 and 16 were rescued.

Belize Bank upgrades frustrating customers
Many Belizean account holders of Belize Bank Ltd. have been complaining on social media about the new changes to their account numbers, not being able to access their online accounts and being unable to withdraw money from the ATM. The bank had issued a notice informing customers of the changes.

Atlantic Bank Ltd. donates $5,000 to Verge of Umbra
In April, Verge of Umbra, a Belizean metal Group won the Central American metal competition in Guatemala City.Verge of Umbra competed with bands from Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala and Panama. The band will now represent Central America at Wacken Open Air 2017, a summer open-air heavy metal music festival. It takes place annually in the small village of Wacken in Schleswig-Holstein, northern Germany.

International Sources

Benque Fiesta – 51st Year of Celebration
The new Caribbean Culture and Lifestyle magazine has a great article about the Benque Fiesta, which goes from this Thursday, July 13th, through Sunday, July 16th. The Flor de la Feria pageant is Thursday, during the opening celebrations. The Super Feria Band will play on Thursday too. "Benque Fiesta is a celebration held annually at Benque Viejo, in honor of the patron saint ‘Our Lady of Mount Carmel’ (Nuestra Señora de Monte Carmelo). It is the largest and longest religious festival held in the Cayo District which started on July 7th and leads to July 16th, the Patrons day. As traditions stand, religious ceremonies, gatherings and nuptials commence– known as ‘Las Alboradas’. Church bells chime in light of morning service for the patron saint with morning praise and worship followed by small social gatherings around the community. Leading up to July 16, local residents take turns hosting small get-togethers, serving up traditional favorites. ‘Bollos’ ( small tamales), and sweet and savory pastries – ‘maja blanca’ being some of the popular delights."

CCJ seeks to trigger digital revolution in Caribbean courts
The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) is hoping that a set of technological upgrades it recently adopted will trigger a digital revolution in courts across the region, and transform how justice is delivered. CCJ president, Sir Dennis Byron, who spearheaded the court’s adoption of the new digital platform for document-filing, case management and performance measurement, described the switchover as “a major development for lawyers and courts in the region”, with significant potential to make the delivery of justice more efficient and timely. Byron explained that the electronic filing of case documents, in particular, would save both time and money for all parties. “The new system will allow judges direct access to case information from any location, including via their mobile phones. It eliminates the risk of misplaced files and enables lawyers to commence proceedings by filing actions over the Internet,” he said in an interview at the CCJ headquarters in Port of Spain.

Bikini-clad Simone Biles slams troll who accused her of partying non-stop
American gymnast Simone Biles, currently holidaying in Hawaii and Belize with her family and friends, knows how to defend herself against online trolls. The Olympic gymnast Biles (20), who won four gold medals at the Rio Olympics last summer, couldn't escape a troll who slammed her constant partying in the last year and called her a 'sucky a** role model'.

Videos

David & Anke Doehm are in detention in Belize City, 1min. They were transported from San Pedro to Belize City this morning and will reportedly be spending the remainder of their 48 hours detention there. It is unclear why they were removed from the San Pedro Police Station holding cell.

Sunk in Blue, 5.5min. This is my experience on the blue hole!!!

Orange Walk, Belize Festival of Hope, 1.5min.

Kiteboarding Belize - San Pedro, Ambergris Caye - PassionKite, 3.5min. My wife and I visited San Pedro for the third time in July 2017. We've taken a handful of kiting vacations, and the three excursions we took with PassionKite were the best kiting experiences we've ever had. The sandbar where they take you out is a quick boat ride away. It is ~1.5 miles long of gorgeous blue, waist deep water and every time we were there we had it all to ourselves! It is by-far the best location we’ve seen thus far!

Diving in Belize 2017, 4.5min. Video compilation of our dives with Belize Pro Dive Center in 2017.

Belize swim with turtle, 1.5min.

Belize Flyfishing, 2min.

STAARTS - BELIZE, 10min.

July 11, 2017

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

The San Pedro Sun

Doehms charged and re-arrested as San Pedro Police continue investigating murder of Faye Lin Cannon
American couple David and Ankhe Doehm remain in police custody as the prime suspects for the murder of their adoptive 13-year-old daughter Faye Lin Cannon. The duo had their first hearing at the San Pedro Magistrate Court on Monday, July 10th, where they were on trial for a separate matter-drug possession. Ankhe denied the accusations and was released, but almost immediately re-arrested. David declared himself guilty for the offence and was offered bail, but after he could not meet this, he was re-arrested as well. The couple will remain in police custody for another 48 hours as police continue investigating. It was also revealed that there are intentions to interrogate Faye’s siblings, as they might be able to contribute vital information towards solving the case, which is still being treated as a homicide. “We don’t want to exhaust the children at the moment with the investigation, but at some point they will be interviewed by a specialist in order to try to get more evidence,” he said. Jemmott denied multiple reports about the alleged abuses the children were exposed to while with the Doehms. “We have one report that was made to the Human Development Department in 2014, but after that there were no other reports.”

Team Hard Knox wins Grand Caribe’s first Deep Sea Fishing Tournament
For the first time ever, in collaboration with the Belize Game Fish Association (BGFA), Gran Caribe Resort hosted the first International Deep Sea Classic Fishing Tournament from July 7th to the 9th. A total of 25 teams registered for a three-day fishing extravaganza, competing for $44,000 in cash and prizes. The tournament was a grand success, and after three days of arduous efforts out at sea, Team Hard Knox from Belize City captured the grand prize. Second place went to Team Jolly Mon, while Team Ambergris Divers Fish Tails took home the third place. The other two teams in the top five included Team Reel Challenge in fourth place and Team Mad Storme in fifth.

The Government of Belize reaches an important cornerstone in Border Management
The UN Migration Agency (IOM) reports that an important upgrade to Belize’s Border management system is complete. Particularly, this initiative strengthened the capacity of Belize’s Department of Immigration and Nationality Services (DINS) and its staff to manage the border more efficiently through an upgrade of the recently installed PIRS/MIDAS computerized border information management system.

Residents hold peaceful demonstration for Faye Lin Cannon; parents charged for drug possession
A peaceful demonstration was held in San Pedro Town on Saturday, July 8th following the murder of 13-year-old Faye Lin Cannon. Hundreds of residents convened at the Central Park, calling for justice and demanding local authorities to take immediate action against the culprits. Faye’s adoptive parents David and Anke Doehm, have been in police custody since Thursday, July 7th pending charges. On Monday, July 10th, they were charged for drug possession, and will remain in police custody for another 48 hours as investigations continue into the murder case.

Shooting victim identified as Julian Tun by San Pedro Police
San Pedro Police were initially seeking two persons of interest at the start of investigation. However, on Monday, July 10th, Officer in Charge of the Coastal Executive Superintendent Henry Jemmott told The San Pedro Sun that they have since detained nine persons for questioning in connection to the murder. As of press time, no official charges have been laid against these persons. Tun was no stranger to police, as on June 20, 2016 he was arrested and charged with 4 counts of attempted murder, 2 counts of dangerous harm, 4 counts of use of deadly means of harm, 2 counts of wounding, 1 count of possession of an unlicensed firearm, and possession of unlicensed ammunition. Tun was the main suspect in the attempted murder of Police Corporal Alrick Arnold during a gang shootout in front of the Queen Street Police Station in Belize City. While previous news reports indicated that Tun had been remanded to the Belize Central Prison following his arraignment, the exact date of his release is not yet known.

Ambergris Today

David And Anke Doehm Remain Detained After Appearing In Court Today
Today, David Doehm was charged with the possession of a small amount of class C controlled drugs, namely diazapam (Valium) - .187 grams. He and wife Anke appeared in San Pedro Magistrate’s Court, on July 10, 2017, where he pleaded guilty to his charge. Anke on the other hand pleaded not guilty, stating that the drugs were not hers. David was fined $108.00, but could not pay his fine and remained detained. On the other hand, Anke walked free after being found not guilty of the drug charges. Upon stepping out of the San Pedro Police Station, she was detained once again pending investigations on the Faye Lin Cannon murder case. Once David is able to pay his court fines he will also be released and re-detained. The couple has not yet been charged for murder and will remain in custody for another 48 hours as investigations continue.

Human Services’ Statement On Faye Lin Cannon Case - Siblings Receive Protective Care
The Ministry of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation joins the nation of Belize in grieving the death of 13-year-old, Faye Lin Cannon of San Pedro Town. The Department of Human Services (DHS) is collaborating with the San Pedro Police Department in its criminal investigation. Following the detention of the mother and stepfather by the Police Department, on July 6th, 2017, the three surviving siblings were taken into protective care. DHS is also currently conducting its child abuse investigation and has referred the children for therapeutic counseling to assist them through this traumatic experience.

Exciting New Deep Sea Fishing Tournament Hosted By Grand Caribe
With top cash prizes and the allure of major bragging rights, anglers (and residents) were excited as Grand Caribe hosted its first annual Deep Sea Fishing Tournament this past weekend from Thursday, July 6 to Sunday, July 9, 2017 in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, Belize. This tournament offered a total of $44,000 Belize dollars in cash prizes with 1st place receiving $15,000, 2nd place receiving $10,000, 3rd place receiving $7,000, 4th place receiving $4,000 and 5th place receiving $1,500. A series of prizes were also offered for the heaviest fish by type and the top angler overall, top female and top junior.

Top PSE Students Of San Pedro And Caye Caulker Awarded
On Friday, July 7, 2017, The Minster of Tourism and Area Representative of Belize Rural South, Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr., took the opportunity to congratulate and award the top PSE performers for both San Pedro and Caye Caulker. “Education is important and I’m glad that over the years we have helped many students by giving them some kind of contribution towards their studies,” stated Hon. Manuel Heredia. “Weather students are studying on the island or from the island studying anywhere in the country, assistance is given to them.” Congratulations to Kiona Sanker from San Pedro R.C. School, Colin Grief from Island Academy and Dylan Pacheco from Caye Caulker Roman Catholic School!

Misc Belizean Sources

Southern Ambergris Caye Neighbourhood Watch Meeting Wednesday JULY 12, 2017 @ 7:00pm
Lone Star Grill and Cantina.

BELIZE DEFENCE FORCE CONDUCTS FIRST RESCUE MISSION USING UH1H HELICOPTER
The Ministry of Defence wishes to inform the public that the Belize Defence Force Air Wing (BDF AW) carried out its first Rescue Mission using the UH1H, on July 8th, 2017. The mission was carried out in the village of San Benito Poite in the Toledo District, where three children, ages 10, 14 and 16 years old, were rescued. The three children went on a fishing expedition and were stranded on the far bank of the Poite River that had crested above normal due to a flash flood. As a result, the Hammock Bridge was damaged making it unusable and the main bridge was submerged making it impassable.

CALLA CREEK ROAD REPAIRED – JALACTE HIGHWAY CLEARED
The access road to the village of Calla Creek, via Bullet Tree Village, has been repaired after being significantly damaged by recent rains and flooding in the western part of the country. The road was rendered impassable early Friday morning, July 7, 2017, when a portion of it, where a few culverts are located, was completely washed away by flooding. On Saturday, Minister of NEMO Honourable Edmond Castro visited the area, and through public-private sector collaboration between NEMO, Cayo West Area Representative Hon Erwin Contreras and Cayo businessman Sergio Chuc, the road was repaired and made passable once again. The Minister of National Emergency Management and NEMO advise that this is only a temporary fix, and that a more permanent solution will be engineered and executed by the Ministry of Works.

PACT-UB Scholarship Program 2017
The University of Belize (UB) and the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to implement a scholarship program designed to enhance the National Protected Areas System towards the achievement of Belize’s sustainable development goals. The agreement was recently signed by Professor Emeritus Clement Sankat, Ph.D, President of the University of Belize and by Percival Cho, Ph.D, Board Chairperson of PACT for the period 15th June, 2017 through 31st August, 2019. For more information, contact Dean of Student Affairs Dr. Jean Perriott at [email protected].

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY: Chevening Scholarships
Applications for the Chevening Scholarship open on August 7th!

Press Release re: Faye Lin Cannon
The Ministry of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation joins the nation of Belize in grieving the death of 13-year-old, Faye Lin Cannon of San Pedro Town. The Department of Human Services (DHS) is collaborating with the San Pedro Police Department in its criminal investigation. Following the detention of the mother and stepfather by the Police Department, on July 6th, 2017, the three surviving siblings were taken into protective care. DHS is also currently conducting its child abuse investigation and has referred the children for therapeutic counselling to assist them through this traumatic experience. While DHS is unable to discuss the details of cases due to our mandate of confidentiality, there have been a number of disclosures about the Department’s previous involvement with the family in the media. Departmental records show that in 2014, there was a report of improper supervision and inadequate parenting whereby the Cannon children were being exposed to the elements. A joint investigation was conducted along with the Police Department, where the parents, children and school officials were interviewed.

Armenia Village now has a police station
Courtesy of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

BELIZE COALITION TO SAVE OUR NATURAL HERITAGE CONCLUDES JOURNALISM COURSE, “SAFEGUARDING THE FUTURE: THE ENVIRONMENTAL AND ECONOMIC CONNECTION IN BELIZE.”
Course participants recognized for their capstone projects and first place winner announced. On Saturday, July 7th, 2017, the Belize Coalition to Save Our Natural Heritage concluded the journalism course “Safeguarding the future: the environmental and economic connection in Belize” with a course completion dinner and award ceremony at the Radisson Fort George Hotel and Marina. The Coalition partnered with the Department of the Environment, University of Belize, and the U.S. Embassy to bring about the free, 12 month course which included class and field work focused on topics and issues at the heart of Belize’s environmental and economic crossroads. The curriculum also included modules on basic journalism and newsgathering, skills, best practices, and instruction in the use of social media and digital platforms taught by lead course instructor and facilitator, Holly Edgell, along with guest lecturers.

The UWI Arts Chorale & UWI Arts Steel Pan are in Belize for several performances
UB is one of the sponsors and the "Joyful 2" concert takes place at the UB Jaguar Auditorium in Belmopan City on July 25th at 6:00 p.m. The price is $10 per person. Tickets are available at: the door. UB by calling 822-1000 ext. 193. the Belmopan City Council by calling 822-2271.

Cultural Industry Workshop
Over the past weekend the Corozal House of culture executed our Cultural Industry Workshop for the 2017/18 fiscal year. The workshop sought to establish a Poktapok Ball Team. Through kind community efforts and support we have established a team out of Xaibe Village. We are so delighted to have a group of men who have taken up the challenge and have already shown great promise and skill. Thank you to the manager, coach and members of the Belize Ek Balam Poktapok Team for instilling their knowledge of this deeply rooted Maya sport. We look forward to continued meaningful interactions with our Yo Creek brothers.

Corn Husk Doll Workshop
That's some awesome corn art from the Benque HoC's Corn Husk Doll Workshop. Wow! "Congrats to Benque House of Culture (NICH) on the completion of this wonderful training workshop, done in partnership with ICA's Summer Arts 2017 Program. Beautiful work."

SISE 2017 Summer Art Camp
The SISE House of Culture is planning 3 art workshops for kids. They'll have a general art workshop, a crochet and yarn workshop, and an expressive art workshop. Call 824-0783 for more information. They are all free.

BETEX - BTIA Award for the BTB's contribution
Received by Director of Marketing & Industry Relations, Ms. Karen Pike.

Channel 7

Jury Deliberates Bert Vasquez Abduction Case
Right now, A jury of 7 men and 2 women is deliberating the fate of 33 year old Bert Vasquez - who is being tried for forcible abduction and aggravated assault of an indecent nature against a girl who was 16 years old at the time. Justice Adolph Lucas gave the jury his summation this afternoon and the jury went in after 4:00 pm. The victim - whose name the judge said cannot be released - is now 22 years old. She testified that at 8:00 on the night of May 13, 2011, she was near Pound Yard Bridge waiting for a bus when Vasquez arrived. She said he approached, put a gun to her side and told her to walk with him and don't scream, otherwise he will shoot her.

16 Year Old Murdered On San Pedro - Was It Retaliation?
16 year old Julian Tun was killed in San Pedro on Saturday night. Now, Tun was not even an adult - but already he was the one of the most wanted names in the streets - because he was accused of trying to kill a senior George Street figure in a truly brazen execution attempt last year. And so while he should have been extremely cautious, he's just a teenager, and when a female lured him out to San Pedro on Saturday night - even though he probably should have known better - he took the invitation left his home base. Daniel Ortiz found that decision led directly to his death:...

Faye Lin's Father Pleads Guilty To Minor Charge
San Pedro Police still have not been able to charge Anke and David Doehm for anything related to the death of their adopted daughter, 13 year old Faye Lin Cannon. As we told you, the 13 year old was found dead in her parents Ambergris Caye condo a week ago, showing signs of severe physical and sexual abuse. They have been in police custody since Thursday - but investigators still haven't been able to put together all the pieces to charge them for anything related to Faye's death.

Retired Teacher Run Over Early On Sunday
A 60 year old retired teacher was knocked down and killed this weekend. At around 5:00 yesterday morning, Rene Gutierrez was driving along the Phillip Goldson Highway on his motorcycle. He left his house along the highway to pick up a friend in Belize City. 37 year old Anthony Humes was also heading to Belize City in his Wingle and he knocked Gutierrez off his cycle in front of Caribbean Tires. Gutierrez did not survive the impact. We spoke to Gutierrez's brother this evening about the accident.

Teenaged Female Dies On Hummingbird
There was another fatal accident but this time on the Hummingbird Highway - and the victim is a teenaged female. 32 year old Teakettle resident Oscar Corado was driving his Ford ranger pickup along with his passenger 19 year old Dangriga resident Damarias Ralac. But Corado lost control and overturned near mile 22. Corado survived the crash but Ralac died from her injuries.

Police Release OW Man With BDF Uniforms
On Friday we told you about the close to 100 BDF uniforms and old BDF boat engine parts which were found at a residence in Orange Walk. BDF Commander David Jones told us that all the items had been written off and should have been destroyed by the Ministry of Finance. But they weren't and they ended up in the hands of a Mexican man who BDF and Police found near the Mexico border with BDF uniforms. He led police to the residence of Sarco Torres in Orange Walk Town. Today the Financial Secretary who runs the Ministry of Finance confirmed to us that Torres was part of a work gang that the Ministry contracted to dispose of almost 1200 uniforms and other BDF items that had been written off. Waight says all the uniforms should have been burned - but he believes they were not, and Torres took a portion for himself.

BDF Helicopter Swoops In To Save Stranded Boys In Flash Flood
And in better news from the BDF, they used one of their helicopters to great effect this weekend. One of the UH1H choppers was used in its first rescue mission. It was deployed to the western Toledo District in San Benito Poite where three children, ages 10, 14 and 16 years old, had been stranded on the wrong side of the river. A flash flood washed away the hammock bridge, and the main bridge was submerged. The currents were too strong for any boat to attempt to bring them back over to the home side of the river. So, the BDF flew in, found a landing area, loaded the boys up and took them back across the river. The young men had gone fishing and hadn't heard any advisories about severe weather advisories in the area.

Was San Pedrano Pultarco Murdered? City Cops Say Yes, Island Cops Say No
So far on the news we've already told you about a weekend murder in San Pedro. Well, there is another sudden death on the island that the forensic examiner says looks like a murder. On Wednesday, 56 year old Plutarco Noralez was found dead and the on Thursday, the forensic examiner said that he died of Traumatic Asphyxiation due to neck and chest compression due to blunt force trauma. Police sent it out to the media under the heading "murder", but the office run charge of the island said he disagrees and here's why: Supt. Henry Jemmoth - OC, Coastal Executive Unit: "Whilst investigating the Faye Lin's, we got an information on Wednesday that a male person died at the hospital. We proceeded to that location where we made checks and saw the lifeless body of Mister Plutarco Noralez, a Honduran national. He has no fixed addressed. All we know is that he wonders around in the Boca Del Rio Park and he is a frequent drinker that remains in that area."

Cayo Cops Killed Guate Carjacker On Calla Creek Road
The news of stolen Toyota Hiluxes is nothing new in the Cayo District - in fact, it is an all too common occurrence from Belmopan to San Ignacio. And 10 times out of 10, those stolen rides end up in Guatemala. But this weekend, that almost happened again, but it didn't. That's after Cayo police chased two Guatemalan bandits in a stolen pick up truck through rural Cayo. The armed thieves were attempting to make it to Guatemala, when they lost control of their vehicle and crashed on the Calla Creek road. As the Guatemalans tried to escape on foot, a fire fight with police ensued, ending in the death of one of the bandits. Alex Courtenay went West to speak to the police and find out exactly what happened...

Carnival Band Leader's Costume Material Burnt Up
Belizean United's Carnival band leader Ashman Wiltshire has been trying to focus on getting his costumes ready for the road march but his mother's Friday night house fire has distracted and derailed him significantly. Wiltshire just returned to Belize from Los Angeles Friday morning with costume materials for Friday night's Miss Carnival Pageant. When the pageant was over he and his friends went to grab food and some drinks but instead of coming home to unwind after a long night -Wiltshire came home to find his mother's house ablaze. Wiltshire told us he believes that it is his own relative who burnt it up. The fire department also confirms that it is arson:

Shooting After Cabana Confrontation
Three men were shot early on Saturday morning in Belmopan. Sometime after 3:00 am, Police say that after a fight at La Cabana - Berthran Bermudez was shot to the left and right upper thigh, Ismael Trapp was shot to the right index finger and left foot, while another man who refused to cooperate with the police was shot to his left ankle. The scene was processed and 7 nine millimeter shells were found. Police have made no arrests.

Belize Bank Shaky Transition Taxes Account Holders
If you are having trouble accessing your Belize Bank online account, using a debit card, taking out a few dollars from the ATM, or just chasing a cheque, you are not alone, many Belize Bank account holders have been experiencing these troubles for the past week. According to Bank Executive Chairman Lyndon Guiseppi, that's because the bank is transitioning from a System- which they had been using for 15 years - to a new system called Fusion Banking Essence. It is a state of the art banking platform that they say will improve overall services for you the consumers. But the transition has seen basic services collapse. Guiseppi says that the system shift began last Monday and these gliches with the online site and the ATM should normalize by the end of this week. The Belize Bank apologizes for any inconveniences caused.

Courtney Is Tops In Environmental Course
On Saturday night, Channel 7's Courtney Weatherburne won the award for best story when the Belize Coalition to Save Our Natural Heritage concluded a 12 month course in environmental journalism. The course was called "Safeguarding the future: the environmental and economic connection in Belize". It focused on topics and issues at the crossroads of environmental and economic issues. The curriculum also included lessons on basic journalism and news gathering skills, best practices, and instruction in the use of social media and digital platforms. Holly Edgell was the lead course instructor.

A Laboratory of Art
The Image Factor is celebrating summer by sending artists into the lab. No, their not mixing science and art, instead, they're inviting all creative persons to perform, install or project work in the Image Factory for a maximum of 24 hours. Katie Usher was first up with her project called GRUB PIX, which she explained: The LAB4 continues tomorrow with Leroy the Grandmaster Young. Yasser Musa comes in on July 20th with a special invitation to Donald Trump:â€¦ The lab installations continue through to July 21st with a new project being presented daily.

Rains Caused Road Ruin, Landslide
Earlier on in the news, we told you about the shootout leading to police fatally shooting a Guatemalan bandit on call Creek Road. Well, that's not the only reason that road is making news. It was significantly damaged by recent rains and flooding in the western part of the country and by early Friday morning it became impassable when a few culverts were washed away by flooding. On Saturday, through public-private sector collaboration between NEMO, Cayo West Area Representative Hon Erwin Contreras and Cayo businessman Sergio Chuc, the road was repaired and made passable once again.

Channel 5

Faye Lin Cannon’s Adopted Parents Charged Over Valium
The death of thirteen-year-old American national Faye Lin Cannon has sent shockwaves across the country. The teenager was found dead and a post mortem exam determined that she was physically [...]

San Pedranos Expand Protest Over Teen’s Death
Another round of protest as held over the weekend in the San Pedro where police have not yet been able to pin murder charges in the case of Faye Lin [...]

Dept. of Human Services Details Efforts to Help Troubled Family
As the island continues to reel over the death of Faye Lin, the Department of Human Services is coming under fire for a purported inaction in respect of complaint made [...]

San Pedro Mayor Was Not Aware of Rumored Issues
We showed you the protests on the island where San Pedranos are angry over the death of Faye Lin. Residents have taken to the streets to express their regret and [...]

Julian Tun Shot Dead the Day He Visited Ambergris Caye
Crime in the prime tourism destination has spiked; three murders were recorded in three days. Even as police continue investigating the death of Faye Lin Cannon, on Saturday night, a [...]

Jury Gets Case of Bert Vasquez for Forcible Abduction
The sensational case of forcible abduction, sexual assault and harm against Bert Vasquez, involving a sixteen-year-old minor back in May 2011 came to an end just before news time. At [...]

Why Was Honduran Handyman Plutarco Noralez Marked for Murder?
Police on the island are also investigating the unusual death of a Honduran national. Fifty-six-year-old Plutarco Noralez relocated to Belize from La Ceiba, Honduras years ago – first living in [...]

Eamon Courtenay Named Temporary Judge of Eastern Caribbean Appeal Court
The Court of Appeal of the Eastern Caribbean began sitting today in the British Virgin Islands. It did so with a newly appointed judge – Senior Counsel Eamon Courtenay. News [...]

Police Win Showdown with Guatemalan Carjackers – 1 Dead, 1 Injured
Two Guatemalan carjackers were shot by police over the weekend; one died on the spot in Calla Creek, Cayo. On Saturday, the robbers lay waited Omar Jimenez and his son [...]

Rene Gutierrez Suffers Fatal Knockdown on Philip Goldson Highway
Police continue to investigate a fatal road traffic accident in Belize City. Thirty-seven-year-old Anthony Humes was driving a Wingle pick-up truck into Belize City from Ladyville on Sunday morning around [...]

Trio Shot after Fight at La Cabana Bar
A night of socializing at La Cabana Night Club in Belmopan has left three men suffering from varying degrees of injury after gunfire erupted at the establishment. According to Belmopan [...]

Who Burnt Flowers Family Out of Zacaranda Street Home?
A Belize City family is out of house and home tonight after their residence on Zacaranda Street was gutted by fire. The twenty-by-twenty-five foot wooden structure was, according to fire [...]

No Charges for O.W. Trio Caught with B.D.F. Material
On Friday, we reported that Orange Walk police had arrested and detained a trio of men, including a Mexican national, found in possession of discarded military uniforms and outboard engines [...]

Helicopters to the Rescue for Toledo Teens
The Belize Defence Force Air Wing was hard at work over the weekend, responding to an emergency situation in the Toledo District. The Ministry of Defence reports that three children [...]

Fewer Major Crimes Reported
Police are reporting less major crimes across Belize in the first half of 2017. Official statistics have the figure tallied at eight hundred and sixty-six in total from January to [...]

The Image Factory Opens its “Lab”
For four years, the Image Factory Art Foundation has opened its space to new and established artists during the summer months for what it calls free and open experimentation, where [...]

Sports Monday – Basketball and Softball Stats
Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday. [Highlights of weekend sporting activities….]

Breaking Belize News

CARICOM reiterates support for Belize in territorial dispute with Guatemala
The Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) have reaffirmed their support for Belize in its ongoing territorial dispute with Guatemala. At the 38th CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting held in Grenada last week, member countries characterized their support for Belize’s territorial integrity […]

Ministry of Human Development issues statement on death of Faye Lin Cannon
The Ministry of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation today issued a release stating that it joins the nation of Belize in grieving the death of 13-year-old, Faye Lin Cannon of San Pedro Town. “The Department of Human Services (DHS) is collaborating with […]

UB and PACT partner to give out scholarships
The University of Belize (UB) and the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to implement a scholarship program designed to enhance the National Protected Areas System towards the achievement of Belize’s sustainable development goals. The agreement was recently […]

Shotgun stolen from parked car in Belmopan
A weapon was stolen in Belmopan and cops fear that it might be in the hands of criminal elements. According to police reports, Belmopan resident, Elijah Samuel Gill, 40, told cops that between 12:30 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. on Sunday his black 12 gauge […]

One dead, one injured in Calla Creek police chase; weapons and ammo seized
On Saturday, BBN reported of a fatal shooting on the Calla Creek Road. Today, police issued an official report on the incident. According to police, cops visited an area on the Calla Creek road where a black Toyota Hilux pick-up was seen on the […]

SUV stolen from Belize City parking lot
The theft of motor vehicles in Belize City continue unabated, thieves again had a busy weekend. The latest victim is 36-year-old Mouhsen Rammal. He told police that he had parked his 2014 Ford Escape SUV vehicle in the parking lot of San Pedro Belize […]

Belize City home burns to the ground
On Saturday morning a house was burnt to the ground in Belize City. At around 1:54 a.m., police visited #4496 Zacaranda street where cops saw a pink upstairs wooden structure measuring approximately 20 x 25 feet destroyed by fire. The owner of the home, […]

Golf cart stolen in San Pedro
On Friday, July 7, 2017, Emelda Jones, a Massage Therapist of San Pedrito Area reported that on Thursday, her husband parked their golf cart in front of the yard and on Saturday morning, they discovered that the golf cart was missing. The golf cart is valued […]

Body discovered in sugar cane field in Orange Walk
On Friday, July 7, 2017 around 2:11 p.m., Orange Walk police visited a cane field located about 2 1/2 miles out of San Estevan Village and about 1 1/2 mile inside a feeder road where they found the lifeless body of Manuel Novelo, 45, a […]

NEMO says Calla Creek road repaired and Jalacte Highway cleared
NEMO informs the public that the access road to the village of Calla Creek, via Bullet Tree Village has been repaired after being significantly damaged by recent rains and flooding in the western part of the country. The road was rendered impassable early Friday morning, July […]

Blogs

Practical Travel Gear
This post is in celebration of Amazon Prime 2017 which started tonight at 6:00 pm pst. Amazon has become the easy shopping source for many especially when it comes to vacations. The following 6 reviews all come courtesy of traveler Todd Boewe. He reached out for advice on all things Ambergris Caye. He opted to choose family adventures while here with his kids. Todd did, however, do some advance planning for their family trip – online shopping. Here are Todd’s best travel accessories reviews for items that he and his daughter chose on Amazon for their trip.

WELCOME TO THE SUMMER WAVE To'on Masehualoon ( We are Maya) event held in Corozal NICH
Today, I got invited to blog about The Mayan History To'on Masehualoon ( We are Maya) inside the Corozal House of Culture. Unfortunately, I never get invited unless I get approved to go take photos of an event. Or, just my voluntary. Mayan history today, has been forgotten a bit. Happily, I can say that the Mayan History is not forgotten by the old generation who are alive today around Belize. They are happy to teach younger generation the importance of their culture. I am happy to announce that To'on Masehualoon ( We are Maya) was organized to teach this group of kids a hand full of Mayan History and learn something about the Mayan Culture in Corozal. This is how it all began.

A full activities happening this month in Corozal
Summer activities at the Corozal House of Culture, call 422-0071 to register:

International Sources

Eck Institute for Global Health to study Zika in Belize
The University of Notre Dame has announced a collaboration with Mayo Clinic, the Belize Ministry of Health and the Belize Vector and Ecology Center aimed at strengthening the country’s ability to respond to Zika virus and other arboviruses. Researchers are already working in Belize as part of the five-year project, which will include a full epidemiological and entomological surveillance study, training for health care professionals and public health awareness and education. Just how widely Zika has spread in Belize is unknown, and Grieco said that is precisely why this project is so vital to the country’s future. “This will put Belize on the front line of determining what’s going on in its country,” said Grieco, who also serves as associate director of the Eck Institute for Global Health. “As in many areas of Central and South America, the Zika situation in Belize is not well-defined. The symptoms of Zika can present in the same way as many other illnesses in these settings, resulting in cases going underreported.”

Chills follow excursion into ATM cave in Belize
Our Maya ancestors saw caves as a portal to the underworld, often referred to as ‘Xibalba,’ which translates to ‘the place of fear or fright.’ They believed evil spirits, demons and monsters were guarding caves and only elites, priests and their entourage were permitted to access them; commoners were not allowed to go in,” says caving tour guide Gliss Penados. And yet here I am, a mere commoner, about to descend into the underworld of Actun Tunichil Muknal, also known as the ATM cave, in western Belize. Under a blazing sun, our tour group treks through a tropical jungle, punctuated by a few river crossings before we arrive at the entrance of this massive limestone Mayan archeological site. It feels both foreboding and magical. A portal back to between 300 to 600 AD. Ancient Maya believed the rain god Chaac resided in the underworld and that gods could be both benevolent and malevolent. Offerings were made to keep the gods happy, especially Chaac, to ensure healthy maize crops.

Videos

KTV the Remix (July 4, 2017), 2.5hr.

One week annual camp kicked off today, 6min. The Orange Walk Central Annual Sports Camp, now in its 18th year, has become one of the most anticipated events of the summer. Sponsored by Area Representative Johnny Briceno, the camp caters to youths between the ages of 8 and 12, and uses sports like football, volleyball and basketball to teach the valuable principles of teamwork, discipline and integrity. The one week annual camp kicked off today with over 90 kids registering.

A 43 member medical team visiting from the United States for their 23rd consecutive year, 6.5min. The medical team expects to serve up to 300 patients daily and over 1,000 patients throughout the week. While the free medical care set up shop in Corozal Town, as of tomorrow they will be moving on to four communities.

A conversation with Economist, Ervin Perez, on the IMF Prescriptions, 38min.

CEO Jose Alpuche gives updates on developments in the agriculture sector, 27min.

United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) commemorates World Population Day, 26min.

Hope Run Project is hosting Hope Run 5k 2017., 32min.

Anke Doehm walks free after being found not guilty of possession of drugs....or so she thought!!, 1min.

HEFY Belize 2, 7min.

Belize 2015, 5.5min. Darknight Cave Tubing

My trip back home to Belize 2017, 5.5min. Here's a glimpse of my trip back home in Belize. It's always nice to go back home and spend quality time with family.

You Better Belize It, 18min. An adventure in Belize with Suz and Tay.

Belize trip, 8min. A little look at some of the fun we had in Belize.

Queen of the Bay, Belize District Pageant Saturday Night, 2min.

July 10, 2017

The news will be a bit brief for the next week or so due to time constraints