December 19, 2018

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Specials and Events

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

The San Pedro Sun

San Pedro High girls win 2018 NSSSA basketball championship
The San Pedro High School girls won the National Secondary Schools Sports Association (NSSSA) basketball in the championship, hosted by Sadie Vernon Technical High School at the Belize City Center and SCA Mercy Center last Friday and Saturday, December 14-15. SPHS’ Normalee Gomez won the Most Valuable Player award, as well as awards for Most Points; 27pts per game and Most Rebounds: 8.5 per game. Sophie Guan won the Most Assists award: 4 assists per game. Delille Academy’s Taryn Arnold won Most Blocks and SHC’s Beyonce Villafranco won Most Steals – 3ppg.

Bill Amendments aimed to standardize offshore banking regulations pass through the House of Representatives
On Wednesday, December 12th, the House of Representatives passed three bills to standardize offshore banking regulations to meet European Standards. The bills tabled at the sitting included the Income and Business tax Amendment Bill, the International Business Companies Amendment Bill and the Stamp Duties Amendment Bill. “We don’t have much of a choice. The blacklisting with which we are threatened is not just a matter of imposing punitive measures concerning our exports to Europe and in various other ways. As the Central Bank tells us, that blacklisting if it were to happen, will make correspondent banking relations or continued correspondent banking relations difficult, if not impossible.”

8th Annual Love FM Christmas Parade brightens island streets
It’s starting to feel a lot like the holidays in San Pedro Town as Love FM delighted islanders with their 8th Annual Christmas Parade. Starting shortly after 7PM from the Boca del Rio Park, festively decorated floats sponsored by local businesses and organizations spread much cheer across the main streets of the island. Even the Disney Princesses and Santa Claus made a special appearance to the delight of families that flocked the sidewalks as the parade passed by. This year’s Love FM parade was led by members of the San Pedro Town Council along with Area Representative, Honorable Manuel Heredia Jr., and Miss San Pedro Chelsea Muñoz. Both Mayor Daniel Guerrero and Heredia commented on the significance of the parade to usher in the Christmas spirit as well as its contribution towards the tourism industry. The sounds of beating drums from the San Pedro Roman Catholic Primary School Marching Band signaled the passing of the parade.

Digi Belize officially hands over fire truck to San Pedro Fire Department
Digi Belize officially handed over a fire truck to the San Pedro Fire Department on Monday, December 17th at the fire department’s grounds in San Pedro Town. Present at the handing over ceremony was Digi Belize Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Rochus Schreiber, Mayor Daniel Guerrero, Digi Belize Chairman Nestor Vasquez, The Minister of Transport and National Emergency Management, Honourable Edmond Castro, San Pedro Fire Department Chief Buckner Gladstone and guests.

ACES celebrates the Christmas season with a spectacular show
A spectacular and joyful Christmas show delighted parents and guests on Thursday, December 13th by students of Ambergris Caye Elementary School (ACES). Held at the school grounds, the show delivered an array of different presentations featuring the students’ talents in singing, dancing, and drama as they portrayed the Christmas spirit. Principal Amanda Burgos welcomed the audience shortly after 6:30PM, thanking them for their support that keeps the celebratory tradition alive. “We have prepared a special show for you all as we head into the Christmas holidays,” said Burgos.

Ambergris Today

Pic Of The Week - The Nativity
Christmas is almost here and everyone has decorated their home with beautiful Christmas Trees and colorful lights. This year to add more to the beautification of our Central Park, a beautiful Nativity set was placed between the Central Park and the San Pedro RC Church. The nativity set was officially blessed on Wednesday, December 12, 2018 after the procession of the Virgen de Guadalupe.

Unregulated Development Threatens Belize's Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve
The Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve (TAMR) has sustained multiple damages and is threatened by harmful and improperly unregulated development activities, according to a new Turneffe Atoll Trust (TAT) report. The TAMR provides vital goods and services to people and the environment but is at risk from unsustainable activities. Thousands of Belizeans benefit from the current stream of ecosystem services of the TAMR and they stand to lose the most from the degradation of this important marine resource.

Misc Belizean Sources

A Christmas gift to Nayla
Raggamuffin Tour mechanic needs help.... Nylah, who is a 7 year old, the daughter of Pancho and Miriam. She has been hospitalized at Centro Merida Penciones, in Merida Mexico. She had 2 brain surgeries for the build up of fluids in her brain (hydrocephalus). The parents presently has an outstanding bill of $130,000 Belize as of December 16. Nylah is in intensive care and doctors are carefullg monitoring her. Any assistance you can grant us will be greatly appreciated.

Caye Caulker Village Council Christmas Holiday Hours
Caye Caulker Village Council informs the general public that the office will close on Monday, December 24th 2018 at 2:00 p.m. and reopen on Thursday, December 27th 2018 and on Monday, December 31st 2018 at 2:00 p.m. and re open on Wednesday, January 2nd 2019. The Chairlady, Councillors and Staff of the Caye Caulker Village Council wish you all a Merry and Blessed Christmas and a Happy and Joyous New Year 2019.

BWS Christmas Holiday Hours
BWS Shortened Office Hours for December 24, December 28, and December 31, 2018

Corozal Town Council Christmas Holiday Hours
Public announcement from Corozal Town Council.

BEL Christmas Holiday Hours

FCD staff retreat
FCD's staff retreat held at Jaguar Creek had the objective of informing staff of the 2018 highlights, and plans for 2019. It was a time also to thank all staff for their efforts.

What is the 1859 Treaty?
In 1859 Britain and Guatemala signed and ratified the Convention establishing our boundaries. After 87 years of fully respecting the treaty, Guatemala declared that it would no longer recognize it. We know we have good title to our land, but Guatemala disagrees. If we go to Court, under Article 38 (1), the Court MUST look at treaties. We could show them the original 1859 Treaty, as seen below, which defines our boundary and which Guatemala signed and ratified.

San Pedro House of Culture to host Belizean and Mexican Art Show
The National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) through the Museum of Belize and the San Pedro House of Culture has the pleasure of inviting you to the opening of the Belize/Mexico Art Exhibition on Thursday, December 20th at 7 PM. Live Music will be provided by Man @ Work and the Mariachi group. We look forward to your joining us and supporting the talented Belizean and Mexican artists who's works will be on display. The Art Show will run until December 31st.

Guatemalan representatives from the business and judiciary sector weighs in on the Belize-Guatemala dispute
Today, the Belizean Media, currently in Guatemala City, Guatemala, spoke with Carlos Amador, head of Guatemala's Agricultural Commercial Industrial Committee (CACIF), and Attorney-at-law and former congressman Cesar August del Águila about the Belize-Guatemala territorial dispute. Amador told us that his country considers Belize a very important business partner and that solving the territorial dispute at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) with benefit both countries significantly in terms of trade. He stated that Guatemalans are not seeking to obtain Belizean territory, but define the borders so both countries can have certainty of their territories.

Street Sweeping this week in San Pedro
The San Pedro Town Council will be sweeping the TOWN CORE streets, from Tuesday, December 18 to Friday, December 21, 2018, from 12 Midnight to 6:00 p.m., and is asking every one that leaves their vehicles parked outside on the street at night to kindly park elsewhere to allow our employees to sweep all the streets thoroughly and properly. We ask for your cooperation and understanding in this matter. Thank you.

Corozal Christmas Bram 2018
Sunday, December 23, 2018 at 5 PM – 10 PM, Central Park, Corozal. Hosted by Colcha - Corozal Organization Leading Culture, Heritage and Art. You all can't miss this wonderful event. COLCHA presents Corozal's Signature Christmas Bram 2018! A great opportunity to come out and enjoy a fun family friendly evening. The event will feature local talents, dances, music and food to to fill your senses with joy and happiness! A feature of the event will be local black cake, rumpopo and the famous chicken foot ceviche tasting competition. See you there! Here is wishing everyone a merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

NICH Offers Condolences on the Passing of Ms. Jane Usher
Rest in Peace "Ma Jane" - May your soul rise in glory and rest in eternal peace. Will forever be remembered. One Love. The Board and Staff of the National Institute of Culture and History extend our sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Ms. Jane Usher, who passed away at age 101. Ms. Jane's contributions to Belize's development and national identity are richly engrained in our history books - and rightfully so. Her legacy will live on through everyone that she had inspired, and the thousands of lives she impacted through Credit Unionism. May she rest in peace.

Corozal Rotary Donates stove to Casa Chaan Kan
It is all about "Service Above Self". Today four members of the Rotary Club delivered a donated stove to Casa Chaan Kan, a shelter for elderly that have no home, and no family. The managers and workers at the shelter are now their families. These sweet people are fed, bathed, loved and housed at no charge to them. We heard that the center could use a new stove and through "word of mouth" one was donated. Our job was simply to deliver. We did that and spent some time visiting with the staff and people that live there. Stop in and meet these wonderful folks and if you can take them a donation of food, money or your time. You will be rewarded with a great feeling in your heart. The Rotary Club of Corozal wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season.

Experience Belize Unique Wildlife in Chiquibul Challenge Marathon
The Chiquibul Challenge Marathon has a page on World's Marathons page, and a countdown clock. It happens on March 16th. "Belize has a rich variety of wildlife because of its unique position between North and South America and a wide range of climates and habitats for plant and animal life. The Chiquibul Challenge Marathon is a charity event to support Scarlet Macaw Conservation work for two very special organizations; The Belize Wildlife & Referral Clinic and Friends for Conservation and Development.

Book Launch of Tony Rath's "Images of Ambergris Caye
Today, 10AM at Parham Plaza Hotel...

Channel 7

Farewell Miss Jane
National icon, Jane Usher was laid to rest today and it was a full day of celebration in her memory. It began at 6:30 this morning where members of the family said their farewells, then at 7:00 the BDF escorted Usher to the Holy Redeemer Credit Union where she was lying in state until 12:00. When we got there at 12:30, the BDF were escorting her to the Holy Redeemer Cathedral where the funeral service was held. Here are a few speeches from the mass. Hally D. Haynes, Caribbean Confederation of Credit Unions: "Her passing is undoubtedly and immeasurable and irreplaceable loss to HRCU and Belize. We are the Caribbean confederation of credit unions would like to record our sincere appreciation for her sterling contribution to the development of the Belize Credit Union Movement..."

Cop dies in San Antonio Road Accident
The police department has lost one of their own in a terrible accident on the San Antonio Road. It happened about 14 miles outside of Punta Gorda shortly after 4:00. PC Kenyon Pandy was killed in the accident and a WPC is critical at the PG hospital. We don't have the official police report at this time but we will surely update you as soon as we get more details.

Guatemalans Oblivious but Content with Referendum
Tonight our coverage from Guatemala City continues. Jules Vasquez is there as part of a media tour - which is there to gauge sentiment in advance of Belize's referendum in April 2019. Jules Vasquez reports that the Guatemalans are very content with their referendum - even if they don't know what claim they'll be taking to the ICJ:

Uncle Sam Keeping an Eye on Outcome of Belize Referendum
So, as you heard, the Guatemalans don't want to say where their boundary is. And neither did former Foreign Minister Carlos Raul Morales yesterday. What he did say is that the US is watching Belize closely to see what will come out of Belize's referendum: Carlos Raul Morales, Former Foreign Minister, Guatemala: "We really hope that Belize will vote yes. Because it is going to be more easy. If Belize vote no, we cannot live like this forever. It's not possible to still live with this situation between both countries, because we do not have border..."

Neal Family Keeping the Hope Alive but Suspects Foul Play
Yesterday we told you about 23 year old Iverson Neal who has been missing since last Wednesday. Well, today family members reached out to us hoping it would help in locating their missing loved one. We spoke with Iverson's younger brother Anelka Rivero who recounted the curious circumstances in which Neal was last seen alive near the Rancho area on the George Price Highway. We spoke via phone with the girlfriend of Iverson Neal, one of the last persons to make contact with him before he went missing. She told us that Neal had been suffering from a series of mental problems. But she seemed optimistic that he might turn up eventually.

Benson Jerry Butler: Another Man Gone Missing
And another man to add to the long list of missing persons is Benson Jerry Butler. He is a 53 year old man from Western Paradise Village. Family relatives say he was last seen on Sunday sometime around 8 am. According to his nephew, 39 year old Marlon Kisling, who reported him missing, Butler left home on Sunday enroute to Belize City and has not been seen or heard of since. Kisling also mentioned that his uncle does not suffer from any known mental illness. Butler is of a slim built and brown complexion. He has black hair- styled in an afro- dark brown eyes and walks with a limp on the right foot.

No Bail for Alleged Child Abductor
Roger Wallis, the 63 year-old British National who police charged for allegedly attempting to kidnap and 8 year-old boy, has been refused Supreme Court bail for a second time. Tonight, he's at the Belize Central Prison, awaiting his trial for the crimes he is charged with. As viewers are aware, he's facing 2 counts of attempted kidnapping, and in October 2018 he applied for Supreme Court Bail in front of Justice Adolph Lucas. Due to him being deemed a deemed a flight risk, the judge was not willing to grant him bail then. However, the judge did impose very strict timelines on police and the DPP's Office, that they were expected to follow, or else, Wallis would be allowed to re-apply for bail. They needed to be prepared to proceed with his preliminary inquiry yesterday, and the court also gave an order that he must be indicted by April 3rd of next year, so that his trial could be expedited.

New Sentence for Convicted Killer Ernest Dangalang
Ernest "Dangalang" Thurton Jr, the 26 year-old man who was convicted of the double murders of Frank James and Robert Young, will spend 29 years in prison for those crimes. That's the sentence that Justice Adolph Lucas handed him this morning in the Supreme Court. You'll remember that the judge allowed him to make a mitigation plea a week ago, in which he begged for leniency, and expressed remorse for gunning both men down and killing them in October 2012. The judge took that into consideration, as well as the fact that, up until the outcome of this trial, he had no prior criminal record. He was, however, convicted of killing 2 men, and so the court was obliged to ensure that the punishment fit the crimes.

More Time in Jail for Bert Vasquez
35 year-old Bert Vasquez is already serving 10 years in jail for a conviction of forceable abduction and aggravated assault of an indecent nature. Today, he learned that he will have to serve an additional 4 years in jail. That second sentence is due to his latest conviction in front of Justice Collin Williams for attempted rape of another woman. The victim, who was 20 years-old at the time, testified against Vasquez and told the court that on January 25, 2011, Vasquez offered her a ride home, but instead of taking her there, he took her against her will to an area in Belama Phase 4. The victim said that this was where he attempted to have sex with her against her will. She testified and told the court that he pulled a knife on her and forced her to take her clothing off. A jury of 9 listened to the evidence and found him not guilty of forcible abduction, but guilty of attempted rape.

Thieves Car Jack City Accountant
Police are investigating a case of grand theft auto, which happened in Belize City sometime during the weekend. The owner is 36 year-old accountant Daniel Castillo. He told police that between the hours of 6:30 pm on Friday, and 8:00 yesterday morning, he left his white Ford Everest 4-door SUV in front of his workplace, which is located at #4 Taiwan Street.

Cops Bust Four Men with Guns
Police are reporting tonight that they have 2 illegal weapons in their possession after they busted 4 people with them on Monday. The cops say that they were on patrol, and they encountered 26 year-old Messach Forst and 35 year-old Curtis Ramirez at the corner of Mex Avenue and East Collet Canal. The officers decided to search both men, and that led to the discovery of a 9 mm pistol, which was loaded with 14 live rounds of ammunition. Both men were arrested and charged with keeping an unlicensed firearm, and keeping unlicensed ammunition.

Police Confiscate Four Pounds of Weed in Orange Walk
Up north in the Orange Walk District, the cops say that they found a bag full of marijuana at the side of the road in San Jose Village. At around 1:30 a.m. on Monday, the officers were conducting a checkpoint at the entrance of the village. They spotted a bag on the side of the road, which they believe was thrown out the window of a vehicle they were following.

Guatemalan Millennials don't Care about Claim
And, finally, tonight from Guatemala we have the perspective of a younger person - a 25 year old who would be described as a millennial. Maria Fernanda Galan is a Research assistant at "Asi Es" - the Guatemalan "Think Tank" that we introduced you to yesterday. Her perspective is refreshing because we've been hearing mostly from older Guatemalan males. But, her take is completely different. For her generation the Guatemalan claim to Belize is almost an irrelevancy:..

PC Pandy Killed in Accident, WPC and Kid Recovering at Hospital
We have more details in the fatal traffic accident that claimed the life of PC Kenyon Pandy. Well, WPC Chyneque Zuniga as well as a 4 year old boy were in the vehicle as well and are receiving treatment at the Southern Regional Hospital. The report states that at around 3:40, PC Pandy was driving from the direction of Punta Gorda to the Jalacte Border when Pandy lost control of the vehicle. It flipped several times until it landed in the bushes on the side of road. When police got on the scene they found Pandy bleeding from his mouth and gasping for air. He got serious head injuries. He died during treatment. Zuniga dislocated her shoulder and has pain to her chest and right leg. Fortunately, the little boy only had a swollen lip.

"Turneffe doesn't need us, We need Turneffe"�: Protecting the Atoll
Risking the Atoll: Analysis of the Environmental and Economic effects of improperly regulated development at Turneffe Atoll. That's the main report that was launched today at the Radisson. It is a wordy title but the Turneffe Atoll Trust team says that every word is important in highlighting the message of protection and sustainability. Courtney Weatherburne has more. Turneffe Atoll stands out as one of the most popular sport fishing and scuba diving destinations in Belize. But apart from that, it is the largest and most biologically diverse atoll in the Caribbean - contributing significantly to economic, social and environmental sustainability.

The Great Atoll
The Turneffe Atoll team also launched two other reports entitled Storm Mitigation Value and Blue Carbon Value. Shal told us more about those reports. Valentino Shal, Consultant, Turnoffe Atoll Trust: "So we have a Blue Carbon Value report which this the carbon sequestration value of Turneffe and it is in the millions. The Blue carbon value report is what is the carbon sequestration value of Turneffe in terms of the reef and the mangroves and then we put a dollar figure because it is an economic valuation and it is in the millions of dollars. That means that it helps to stabilize the climate and help to absorb the carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere. The other report has to do with the storm mitigation value of the Turneffe Atoll..."

Belize and UNHCR to Combat Refugee Crisis
Yesterday Belize and other UN General Assembly member states agreed on a new international framework called The Global Compact on Refugees. This collective decision aims to decrease the effects of the mass displacement of refugees in order to benefit both the refugees and the host countries through investment for education and health services. This is to help refuges to lead productive lives while in exile. The compact will also address the environmental impact of hosting refugees and promote the use alternative energy.

Senators All for Domestic Violence Legislation Reform
And finally from the Senate meeting, PUP Senator Valerie Woods took the opportunity to shed light on the issue of domestic violence and highlight the concerning case of missing woman Anisha Young. Woods calls for more legislation to be passed on these issues. Hon. Valerie Woods, PUP Senator: "We also have a choice to bring domestic legislation that reaches a wider audience, and I close, Mr. President inciting the reasons, or names of persons, [showing] why we should have had more than just this legalization in these last final months of 2018..."

Channel 5

Farewell to Miss Jane
Final farewells were bid today to the late Jane Usher. The day started with her last trip to the Holy Redeemer Credit Union where her credit union family paid their [...]

F.B.I., Police Investigate Shooting and Extortion in San Pedro
A family in the island of San Pedro came under attack over the weekend. Their home in the San Pablo area was shot multiple times and police have recovered numerous [...]

Life in Prison for Dangalang
In the Supreme Court this morning, two men were sentenced in high profile cases. Justice Adolph Lucas sentenced Ernest Thurton Junior, known as “Dangalang,” to life imprisonment, but the twenty-six-year-old [...]

Bert Vasquez Sentenced to 4 Years in Prison for Attempted Rape
Also in the Supreme Court….thirty-five-year-old Bert Vasquez learnt his fate today for a second sexual assault case.  Justice Colin Williams imposed the sentence ordering that it run consecutively with his [...]

Police Constable Perishes in Fatal RTA Down South
A police officer lost his life in a road traffic accident in Punta Gorda late this evening. Sometime between four and five o’clock, Police Constable Kenyon Pandy and WPC Zuniga [...]

Former Guat FM’s Perspective on the 1859 Treaty
The education campaign in Belize has attempted to cover the extensive history of the Belize/Guatemala dispute. The over two hundred-year-old dispute hinges on a few pivotal moments in the history [...]

What is Guatemala Really Claiming?
For Belizeans, a decision to vote “YES” or “NO” to the I.C.J. depends on understanding what exactly is Guatemala claiming. During the education campaign in Guatemala earlier this year, some [...]

Carlos Raul Morales Explains Why Belize is Included as Part of Guatemala’s Official Maps
What about those disconcerting maps of Guatemala that include Belize? We asked Morales to explain why – if Guatemala is seeking a resolution – that it is still being used [...]

New Developments in the Vanishing of Annie Young
Despite the offer of a hefty reward on information of her whereabouts, Anisha Young remains missing. Her family has now turned to Jose Luis Espat, who has previously assisted families [...]

Ivor ‘Iverson’ Neal is Reported Missing
There’s another missing person’s report. Tonight, the family of twenty-three-year-old Ivor Neal is concerned about his whereabouts after he was reported missing on Sunday afternoon.  According to relatives, the Belize [...]

ComPol on a Tour; What are the Challenges in San Pedro?
Annually, the Commissioner of Police would carry out a tour to the various jurisdictions. Today, he headed to the cayes where he met with the rank and file of the [...]

Safety Tips for Business Owners This Xmas
As part of its efforts to mitigate crime and violence during the Christmas Season, the Belize Police Department is offering a free escort service to business owners wishing to deposit [...]

The Turneffe Atoll is Under Threat
The Turneffe Atoll Trust today released the findings of a report it conducted on the Turneffe Atoll. That report shows that the marine reserve has sustained multiple damages and is [...]

A Breakdown of the Results of the Referendum in Guatemala
The second leg of a tour on the International Court of Justice organized by the United States Embassy for the local media puts them in Guatemala City tonight. Aside from [...]

Christmas Will Be 25K Bigger and Brighter in Belize Rural North
It’s the most wonderful time of the year – and that means there’s bound to be Christmas cheer in your neighborhood; at least if you are from the Belize Rural [...]

LOVE FM

Mrs. Jane Usher receives state funeral
In respect of the late Honorable Dr. Jane Usher all Belize Flags were flown at half- mast for the past few days until Usher was laid to rest. Jane Usher, the credit union icon was laid to rest at the Price-Usher home on the highway. Before the body was laid to rest, she was escorted …

Neal’s family say he was being threatened before his disappearance
The grandmother of Iverson Neal is very worried. We found Yvonne Rivero and family members posting missing posters of him near their home on North Front Street in Belize City. Yvonne Rivero Grandmother: “Iver Neal yes and he is 23 years old. I last spoke to him last week Tuesday around four when he came …

Two more men are reported missing
While the family of Annie Young hope for the best, there are two more missing cases to report. One man has vanished on land without a trace while the police say another is missing at sea. ASP Alejandro Cowo: “A family member of Iverson Neal made a missing person’s report. Family members reported that the …

Hitchhiker stabs good Samaritan
On Friday a Guatemalan National was murdered in southern Belize. At 4:30 pm, Marcos Chen was stoned while heading to a fishing area in Bladen Village. Chen fell down and then got into a fight with the man who stoned him. Shortly after the man’s brothers attacked Chen and chopped him to death. The police …

Turneffe Atoll Trust launches “Risking the Atoll” study on the analysis of Environmental and Economic Effects of Improperly regulated Development at the Turneffe Atoll
The Turneffe Atoll Trust today launched the “Risking the Atoll” report. It looks at the unsustainable activities, particularly unregulated development, at the Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve that continues to threaten that ecosystem, highlighting past failures to protect the reserve and the damages it has sustained. The report also shows how it contributes to economic and …

Anisha Young remains missing, family offers a $30,000 reward
A reward of thirty thousand dollars has been offered for the return of twenty three year old Anisha Young. Young went missing a week ago after a Christmas party and a social outing along Princess Margaret Drive in Belize City. Her boyfriend had been detained for questioning but that has not yet lead to her …

Police Constable dies in traffic incident in Toledo
A late afternoon traffic incident on Tuesday claimed the life of one police officers in the Toledo District. He has been identified as Police Constable Kenyon Pandy. The incident is reported to have happened around 3:30 pm some fourteen miles out of Punta Gorda Town at the junction of the San Antonio Road along the …

Amandala

Extortionists demand US$550,000
The Turley family of San Pablo, in San Pedro, was terrorized by a gunman at about 1:30 last Saturday morning while they were sleeping. The family said that about 10 shots were fired at their house, then the shooter escaped. Luckily, no one was hurt, but the glass windows of the family’s home were shattered and there were bullet holes in the side of the house. Police said that an investigation has been launched and statements recorded. Trent Turley, 21, told us today that extortion money of US$550,000 is being demanded from them by the gunmen, or else they would be killed, and pictures of coffins were sent to him on social media.

GSU vehicle runs over 2-year-old
2-year-old Tevin Cacho, Jr., is currently in a critical condition at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital after being injured in a tragic car accident involving a member of the Gang Suppression Unit (GSU) that occurred last night, December 13. The incident occurred around 8:20 p.m., while the child’s mother, Shereema Moody was celebrating her birthday with some friends on Iguana Street Extension. Baby Tevin had asked her to take him to a nearby park, which she did. Moody then went just across the street to buy a bag of chips, leaving Tevin in the care of her friend. While Moody was at the store, Kim’s Shop, a white police pickup truck stopped in front of them and three GSU officers exited the truck. They then began ordering the people in front of the shop to disperse so as to discourage loitering and public drinking.

Fisherman, Greg Dillon, 32, missing at sea for a week
A fisherman has been missing for a week after he went on a fishing trip for a few days. Greg Dillon, 32, of #18 Landivar Street, was last seen by his wife, Genay Dillon, on Saturday, December 8, at around 3 p.m. when she dropped him off at Northern Fishermen Cooperative on North Front Street in Belize City. Genay said that she spoke to him on Saturday after he had safely arrived at his fishing camp in Turneffe. He spoke to his wife again on Sunday, December 9. On Monday, December 10, the watchman at the camp reported to have seen him leave the camp alone, en route to Belize City in his blue and white, 23-foot-long fiberglass boat, WHYVETTE, which had on a Suzuki 40 HP engine, at 6:30 a.m.

Belize City Council lights up downtown with 60-foot Christmas tree
A Christmas tree lighting ceremony took place last Saturday night in Battlefield Park, in downtown Belize City, where Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner and his team of councilors gathered for the lighting of a first-of- its-kind—a mega Christmas tree towering 60 feet in the open space with thousands of multicolored lights—witnessed by a large crowd of city residents who came out to be a part of the ceremony. Tonight, Mayor Wagner told us that the tree is a part of a larger plan that is geared to enhancing the area. “The Council and I decided that we want to put up a tree. But I didn’t want just any tree,” Mayor Wagner explained, “I wanted something huge, something special.”

Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte ices Solicitor General Nigel Hawke
The word has been circulating around judicial circles for several weeks now that Solicitor General Nigel Hawke has been let go by Attorney General, Michael Peyrefitte, with only a short time remaining on his contract. As we understand it, Hawke’s contract was scheduled to expire at the end of December, but Peyrefitte has opted not to renew it, thus putting Hawke out to pasture. In a media interview today, Friday, Prime Minister Dean Barrow confirmed that Hawke was let go by AG Peyrefitte, who did not renew his employment contract.

Around 40,000 Belizeans have Guatemalan lineage – Carlos Raúl Morales
Let me tell you something, there are probably more than 40,000 Guatemalan people living in Belize…Yes. Since long time ago.” That is a statement made (and figure shared) by Carlos Raúl Morales, Former Foreign Minister of Guatemala (2014-2017) now vying for the vice presidency of Guatemala under the UNE (National Unity of Hope) banner. He added, “I was Guatemalan consul in Belize and I know a lot. I can tell, probably some of you are coming from a Guatemalan too – great grandmother, great grandfather.”

Youngest Belizean cyclist of the KREM New Year’s Day Classic to receive the Matilda Usher Trophy
The youngest Belizean rider who participates and completes the annual New Year’s Day KREM Cycling Classic, which will be held on New Year’s Day 2019, will receive the Matilda Usher Trophy. A trophy will be presented by the Usher family in memory of their mother, Matilda, who was a cycling enthusiast, to an outstanding Belizean cyclist. This year, the trophy will be presented by her son Anthony Usher, who himself is a sport enthusiast and was a pioneer of the Tumblers Organization that participates in events like Carnival Road March and other events. The trophy will be presented to the rider at the conclusion of the race on the Central American Boulevard. Every year, The Matilda Usher Trophy is presented to an outstanding Belizean rider in various categories, and this year the category is the youngest rider.

Milpros teammates visit the sports desk
On a visit from New York is my former Milpros teammate Egbert “Chana” Kisling who attended a surprise birthday celebration on Saturday for another Milrpos teammate, Kenneth “Cap” Hoare, whose birthday is actually on Wednesday of this week. The two chatted with yours truly for about an hour about old times with the Milpros team. Cap was the last captain of the Milpros Club, which folded early in the 1990s. The captaincy badge had passed from Coro (Gilroy Usher) to Reesho (Maurice Jones), to Chana (Egbert Kisling), and finally to Cap (Kenneth Hoare).

Bandits, 4-2, over Verdes in 1st leg of PLB Championship Finals
ome standing Verdes FC were shocked, 4-2, by visiting Belmopan Bandits SC at the Norman Broaster Stadium yesterday in the first leg of the Premier League of Belize (PLB) 2018-2019 Opening Season championship series. After a convincing 4-1 semifinal game-1 win against San Pedro Pirates FC at the Ambergris Stadium on Saturday night, Verdes had barely survived a San Pedro offensive in the return match on Verdes’ home turf in a mid-week clash on Wednesday night, when San Pedro jumped to a 2-nil lead with Verdes a man short from an ejection. All roads lead to the Isidoro Beaton Stadium for the 2nd leg of the championship and awards ceremony following the game on Saturday night.

Stann Creek FA 1st Division Amateur semifinal playoff results; finals this Sunday
The best-of-two games semifinal playoffs in the Stann Creek Football Association (SCFA) 1st Division Amateur September Season were completed over the past weekend, with the 1stt leg games being played on Friday night, and the 2nd leg on Sunday at the Carl Ramos Stadium. The Finals are now set for this Sunday at the Carl Ramos Stadium:

Editorial: Putt Putt to Pier One; end of an era
The passing of the iconic figure, Miss Jane, last week, and her burial on Tuesday of this week, after lying in state at Holy Redeemer Credit Union, where her personality dominated that institution for more than half a century, marks the end of an era in the social and political life of the young nation of Belize. Her fame and popularity crossed all barriers. She was the face of HRCU to Belizeans from all walks of life and all political persuasions. Our sincere condolences to all her family, even as the grateful nation celebrates the gift of her long and fruitful life among us. Miss Jane will be aptly eulogized in services and by various media this week, but this editorial is focusing more on the changing times that her passing signifies, even as the old year nears its end, and a new one is about to begin. A new generation is slowly taking over, and us old folks are gradually moving on; and the passing of Miss Jane, who has been with some of us for all, and with many of us for most, of our lives, is a reminder to us that time is marching on, and the days of our lives are numbered.

Bilal Morris explains article review of book, To Educate A Nation: Autobiography of Andres P. & Jane V. Enriquez
Dear Editor, As Salam Alaikum, and that means, peace be unto you. My Mayan brother Delmar Tzib: Throughout my entire life as a Muslim representing the example of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), I have never disrespected anyone’s culture, for the sole reason that I would not want anyone to disrespect mine. If in a way I disrespected the Mayan culture of Belize in my article review of the book, To Educate A Nation: Autobiography of Andres P. & Jane V. Enriquez, by my Belizean Garifuna brother and author, Jeremy Enriquez, it is my humble Islamic duty to express my deepest apology to you and those among your people who may have felt hurt by it.

All we need fu Krismos
All we need fu Krismos is for the modern disrespected prophet, Sedi Elrington, to swear that he will not make a peep next year about the ICJ. The media might have been a little harsh with him about his latest pronouncements – he did seem to be trying to back away from his inflammatory past – but if Sedi talks long enough he is bound to expose his weaker side. The less said from this gentleman, the better. He said he is a disrespected prophet. I would remind him that sometimes a prophet can’t save himself. It’s hard, but just about the best thing he can do for us, and himself, is to step back, and wait.

The man who wore KHAKI (a book commentary)
The book, The man who wore KHAKI, is written by an adoring daughter to make sure her father’s contributions and place in Belize are not passed over. It could have been a biased book. It is not. The man who wore KHAKI, Sir Alexander Albert “Sandy” Hunter (or AA Hunter), is deserving of the recognition, and now he will be remembered and revered by all for his outstanding work for our country. The man who wore KHAKI is a rather concise sketch of AA Hunter’s life, and the outstanding people and events of his time. There is no waste of words — the book is only 128 pages — but it is packed from beginning to end with stories, anecdotes, citations that help explain about AA Hunter in those formative years, when our country was just starting on the road to nationhood. His is a fascinating, highly encouraging story.

Belize hands over SICA Presidency Pro-Témpore to Guatemala
After holding the Presidency Pro Témpore (PPT) of the Central American Integrated System, SICA, for the last six months, Belize formally handed it over to Guatemala this afternoon. Guatemala was represented at the SICA Heads of Government Summit in Belize City by its president, Jimmy Morales. Apart from the Guatemalan president, three other Central American presidents attended the SICA Summit. They are the president of Panama, Juan Carlos Varela; the president of Honduras, Juan Orlando Hernandez; and the president of El Salvador, Salvador Sanchez Ceren. Nicaragua and Costa Rica were represented by their foreign ministers.

Guinea Grass store owner leaves village after home invasion and robbery
Veronica Quetzal, 43, a businesswoman of Guinea Grass, is traumatized and has closed her store and left the village after she and her sister were held up and robbed by three armed, masked men at about 1:30 Wednesday morning while they were sleeping in her house in the village. The thieves stole an undisclosed amount of cash, jewelry and other items from her home. The robbers have not yet been found.

Post-mortem exam shows Dimas Choc, accused of affair, was chopped to death
A post-mortem exam conducted yesterday at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital on the body of Dimas Gregorio Choc, 49, a farmer of Cristo Rey, certified the cause of his death to be “acute craneo-encephalic traumatic injuries due to multiple chop wounds to the head.” Police say that Choc was chopped in the head and body by his irate neighbor, Filiberto Itche, a Guatemalan who is a farmer of the village, after he accused Choc of having an affair with his common-law wife. The tragedy occurred at about 11:30 Saturday night, in Itche’s home on a farm in Cristo Rey.

Del Monte corn products recalled from shelves
On December 13, the Ministry of Health (MoH), Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA), and the Belize Bureau of Standards (BBS) sent out a press release in which they said that Del Monte Inc., which is based in California, announced that they were recalling their product, Fiesta Corn Seasoned with Red and Green Peppers. The release said that, so far, Del Monte has not been notified of any illnesses associated with the product, but 62,242 cases of the product carrying a specific code and date are being recalled due to under-processing which could lead to life-threatening illness if consumed.

The Reporter

Funeral of Dr. Jane Usher
Today, as Belizean flags everywhere flew at half mast, Dr. Jane Usher, CBE, was laid to rest in Belize City. Her body lay in state at her beloved Holy Redeemer Credit Union before the service in her honor, and many Belizeans came out to pay their last respects to this amazing woman.

POLICE OFFICER KILLED IN TRAFFIC ACCIDENT IN PG
The Reporter has been able to confirm that there was a fatal traffic accident a short while ago near the dump outside of Punta Gorda Town. We are told that the victim is a Police Constable who is currently stationed at Roaring Creek. The Officer who died has been identified as PC Kenyon Pandy. We are told a WPC was in the vehicle at the time and is in critical condition.

Breaking Belize News

NICH extends condolences on passing of Dr. Jane Usher
The Board and Staff of the National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) extend condolences […]

Two Belize City men charged for unlicensed gun and ammo
Police have arrested and charged two men from Belize City for keeping a firearm and […]

SUV stolen in Belize City
Police are investigating a report of a stolen SUV in Belize City. Daniel Castillo reported […]

BTL donates new Fire truck to San Pedro Town
Yesterday, Belize Telemedia Limited ( BTL) donated a new fire truck to Belize’s National Fire Service […]

Stateswoman, Jane Usher, to be laid to rest today
Today centenarian, former politician and trailblazer in the credit union movement, Jane Usher, will be […]

Guatemalan government was neutral on referendum campaign
Yesterday, Belizean journalists met with Gerardo Ortiz, Public Relations Director at the Tribunal Supremo Electoral […]

Police investigate shooting in Armenia Village
Armenia resident, Roni Cano, visited police on Sunday afternoon to lodge an official report. According to […]

Guatemala’s Former Foreign Affairs Minister: Guatemala will not invade Belize
In a recent interview with the media, Belize’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wilfred Elrington said that if Belizeans […]

Attempted child kidnapper denied bail (again)
British National,Roger Wallis, 63, appeared in court yesterday for another bail application. His counsel, Curl […]

Caribbean Development Bank approves US $36.6 million loan for Belize’s Coastal Highway
The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has approved a loan of US$36.6 million and a grant of […]

Digicell donates new Fire truck to San Pedro
Yesterday, Belize Telemedia Limited ( Digicell) handed over a new fire truck for Belize’s National fire […]

Guatemalan government was neutral on referendum campaign
Yesterday, Belizean journalists met with Gerardo Ortiz, Public Relations Director at the Tribunal Supremo Electoral […]

Police investigate shooting in Armenia Village
Armenia resident, Roni Cano, visited police on Sunday afternoon to lodge an official report. According to […]

Guatemala’s Former Foreign Affairs Minister: Guatemala will not invade Belize
In a recent interview with the media, Belize’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wilfred Elrington said that if Belizeans […]

Attempted child kidnapper denied bail (again)
British National,Roger Wallis, 63, appeared in court yesterday for another bail application. His counsel, Curl […]

Caribbean Development Bank approves US $36.6 million loan for Belize’s Coastal Highway
The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has approved a loan of US$36.6 million and a grant of […]

Blogs

Budget tips: What did we spend in Belize?
How expensive is traveling through Belize? The answer to this question depends on the type of traveler you are, the activities you do and how long you will be traveling for. However in this blog I will tell you what we spend during our trip through Belize. Belize is certainly not cheap for a country in Central America. The price level is about the same as that of the United States and especially on the islands things like food and drink are quite expensive. During our time in Belize we did a number of relatively expensive activities (diving, sailing) and this did not make our trip very cheap. But these activities are worth it and we had a wonderful time at this place!

The Complete Guide to Corozal, Belize
Earlier this month I spent a weekend in Belize and absolutely loved it! I visited the quiet little town of Corozal right across from the Mexico border and was fascinated by the little details that make this town so quaint. Corozal was the perfect place to get a first look at Belizean culture without having to venture further south into the country, although I’d sure love to see more next time I go! A visit to Corozal won’t be packed with activities and planned itineraries. It’s best to go with the intention to leisurely explore the town, try some family-owned restaurants and bars, and relax. Since there are no chain hotels in town, visitors will need to book lodging at one of the many guesthouses. I loved the one I chose because it was a great opportunity to meet a local family and stay in a beautiful home right on the water.

A Whole lot of Holiday Celebrations
This year is no exception in regards to December on Ambergris Caye. We have been experiencing intermittent cold fronts and a whole lot of holiday celebrations. So many that I could not possibly attend them all without super strength vitamin injections ha ha. Thankfully as the Beatles once said ” I get by with a little help from my friends” There are some great photography contributions from other people that help show you the many sides of the early to mid-December Holiday Celebrations in Belize.

International Sources

Florida Severe Weather Likely On Thursday Afternoon & Thursday Evening
An area of low pressure is expected to develop along a frontal boundary in the central Gulf of Mexico late Wednesday night into Thursday morning. In addition, a significant squall line of strong to severe thunderstorms is likely to form along this front across the central and eastern Gulf of Mexico late Wednesday night. It appears that this squall line of strong to severe thunderstorms will cross the Florida Peninsula from west to east during Thursday afternoon and Thursday evening before pushing offshore towards midnight Thursday night. The west coast of Florida could have severe weather as early as late morning into the midday hours of Thursday with the severe weather pushing into central and eastern Florida during the early and mid-afternoon hours. By late Thursday afternoon and Thursday evening, the severe weather risk may shift into south and southwestern Florida and the Florida Keys. All severe weather should be done by midnight Thursday night.

Advancing Disaster Risk Finance in Belize
The objective of this report is to make recommendations for the Government of Belize (GoB) for the formulation of a country-specific comprehensive disaster risk finance (DRF) strategy, based on the assessment of the legislative, financial management, fiscal, and insurance market environment in Belize. This report is envisioned to be used as a planning tool for the potential development of a comprehensive DRF strategy that would equip the Ministry of Finance (MoF) with information and instruments to manage contingent liabilities posed by disasters.

CDB Approves US$5.9 Million to Help Address High Road Fatality Rate in Belize
Road traffic accidents are the seventh leading cause of death in Belize, with approximately 21 deaths per 100,000 persons – the highest fatality rate among the Caribbean Development Bank’s (CDB’s) 19 borrowing member countries. In response to this challenge, the Board of Directors of the Barbados-based CDB yesterday approved funding of US$5.9 million to the Government of Belize, to support critical efforts to improve road safety. The project will focus on the Philip S. W. Goldson Highway, which joins Belize City through Ladyville, Orange Walk Town and Corozal Town to the Mexican border.

Videos

December 18, 2018

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

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

The San Pedro Sun

Former Guatemalan Foreign Minister says his country has NO intentions to invade Belize
Guatemalan former Minister of Foreign Affairs Carlos Raul Morales refuted the idea that Guatemala would invade Belize, if Belizeans vote 'NO' on taking the Belize-Guatemala territorial dispute to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The former politician said that Guatemala will respect Belize's decision on the upcoming ICJ referendum to be held in April of 2019. According to him, if Belize fails to get a 'Yes' vote, they will continue working with Belize to try to find a solution to the issue. Morales adde that Guatemala is a peaceful country and that all they want is to find a definite solution to the territorial dispute and co-exist in peace with Belize.

Tribunal Supremo Electoral-Guatemala
The Public Relation Officer (Vocero) Gerardo Ortiz from the Tribunal Supremo Electoral (Elections and Boundaries) in Guatemala City spoke to the Belizean media today about their referendum held earlier this year on the Belize-Guatemala dispute. Ortiz stated the educational campaign lasted for three months, it was intense and neutral. Despite a turnout of just 26% from the electorate on the day of their referendum, Ortiz said it was historic. According to him past referendums have yielded lower results.

ACP States Reassert Strong Commitment to Belize’s Territorial Integrity and Sovereignty
The 108th Session of the African, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) Council of Ministers concluded today by adopting a Resolution that reasserts the 79 ACP States’ unflinching commitment to the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Belize in the context of Guatemala’s claim. ACP Ministers also reiterated their support for Belize and Guatemala to seek a final resolution of the claim at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Importantly, the ACP Ministers also called on the Government of Guatemala to urgently comply with its agreement to formulate confidence building measures for the Sarstoon River through prompt engagement with the Government of Belize and the Organisation of American States (OAS).

Ambergris Today

Digi Hands Over Fire Truck To San Pedro
In a short ceremony this morning, Monday, December 17, 2018, the telecommunications company Digi handed over a fire truck to the community of San Pedro. Digi states that the official handing over is part of the company’s commitment to community development. “We are part of the community of San Pedro and the fact that we are in a position to help is something that we can appreciate and cognizant of the responsibility that comes with this privilege,” commented Mr. Rochus Schreiber, CEO of Digi. “The truck that we are donating today is just a small expression of our gratitude for the fact that the community allows us to help develop this lovely island. When we heard about the challenges that the community has with fires and the several tragedies that have struck the community, it was only natural to stand up and do something about it.”

Love FMs Holly Jolly Cheerful Christmas Parade
Hundreds of island residents and tourists lined up the streets of San Pedro on Sunday, December 16, 2018, to witness of the most cheerful parades of the year, the Love FM's Christmas Parade. It is without a doubt one of the season's most anticipated events as participants spread Christmas cheer and share candies and other goodies. Love FM organizers do a wonderful job to gather groups, organizations and businesses that wish to participate in the fun and put together a fun-filled parade full of lights, music and entertainment. This year saw the participation of the San Pedro Town Council with Santa Claus joining them in the fun and leading the parade. They were followed by the San Pedro RC School Marching Band and Majorettes, Shine with ABC ballerinas, Snowmans and Disney Princesses.

Misc Belizean Sources

NetKing Solutions INTERNET is available in Caye Caulker!!!
We have rebuilt our tower there, and have new rates and services... IPTV is next to be released! For all intents and purposes, we are RELAUNCHING in Caye Caulker, our past wasn't great in Caye Caulker, we know that, and we are doing everything we can to change that previous opinion!

Governor-General Hosts Annual Christmas Party for the Children of Belize
The Annual Christmas Party for the Children of Belize was hosted by the Governor-General His Excellency Sir Colville N Young on Saturday, December 15th, 2018. One hundred eighty children were invited to this event held at the Garden of Eden, Punta Gorda Town, Toledo District. Each child in attendance received a present from the Governor-General and a goody bag, in addition to food and drinks traditional at this time. The Governor-General wishes to thank all those who gave generously of their time or donations to make this a joyful event for the children.

ACP States Reassert Strong Commitment to Belize’s Territorial Integrity and Sovereignty
The 108th Session of the African, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) Council of Ministers concluded today by adopting a Resolution that reasserts the 79 ACP States’ unflinching commitment to the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Belize in the context of Guatemala’s claim. ACP Ministers also reiterated their support for Belize and Guatemala to seek a final resolution of the claim at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Importantly, the ACP Ministers also called on the Government of Guatemala to urgently comply with its agreement to formulate confidence-building measures for the Sarstoon River through prompt engagement with the Government of Belize and the Organisation of American States (OAS).

Flags to be flown at half-mast in respect of Dr. Jane Usher
In respect of the late Hon. Dr. Jane Usher, The Rt. Hon. Prime Minister has ordered that all Belize Flags be flown at half- mast today, Monday, December 17th, 2018 and tomorrow, Tuesday, December 19th, 2018, until Hon. Dr. Jane Usher has been laid to rest.

LII Meeting of the Heads of State and Government of The Central American Integration System (SICA)
Today, the Heads of State and Government of Central American countries convened for the LII Summit of the Central American Integration System (SICA). The meeting was chaired by the outgoing President Pro Tempore of SICA, Prime Minister of Belize Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow. Attending the meeting were H.E. Juan Carlos Varela, President of Panama; H.E. Juan Orlando Hernandez, President of Honduras; H.E. Salvador Sanchez Cerén, President of El Salvador; and H.E. Jimmy Morales, President of Guatemala. Where Presidents were not present, Foreign Ministers represented member states. In his address, Prime Minister Barrow highlighted the current challenges of climate change, migration, and crime and violence, affecting the region. Prime Minister Barrow affirmed that poverty and inequality remain at the center of these challenges, and for this reason, during the six months of Belize’s Presidency Pro-Tempore (PPT) it renewed focus on agriculture, health and energy to ensure the inclusion of women, youth, and indigenous people in SICA Member States’ economic development.

Only ina Corozal! Football & Christmas Parade #Upgrade

Alexis A Carrillo , Dorian Chi and Gian Reneau honoring the history of the Maya of Northern Belize with thier paintings

Dancers from Maya descent in El Festival del Pueblo
Dance groups U Il' ixi'im from San Narciso(CZL), Lool-Ha from San Pablo(OW) and San Jose Dance group (OW).

Grand Ball
Waltz! Mazurka! Quadrilles! Polka! Punta! Have you heard of Grand Ball? This gala like event has been taking place during the Christmas season in Dangriga for more than a century and is one Belize's many cultural celebrations. Join us next Wednesday 19th December at 6:00 p.m. to learn more about the tradition.

Reflexology Traning: A Well-Being Program!
Friday, February 15, 2019 at 9 AM – 12 PM at The Holistic Institute of Healing, Bullet Tree Falls Village. Basic principles, concepts, and techniques of Reflexology. Benefits of Reflexology and its use in pain relief and stress reduction. Perform hands-on basic care of the hands and feet Perform hands-on method of pressure areas on the feet and hands. Practice hand-washing and protective method to control the spread of infection.

Speaker of the House of Representatives of Belize Meets with the President of the Central American Parliament
On Saturday, December 15th, 2018, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Belize City, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Honourable Laura Tucker Longsworth, met with the President of the Central American Parliament (PARLACEN), Honourable Irma Amaya, who was in Belize attending the SICA Meeting. The aim of the meeting was to commence a dialogue between both parliaments in an effort to establish an inter-parliamentary relation in areas relating to politics, economics, environment, education and culture.

Princess Casino Free Zone presents the live comedy show of "Midilis Castillo"
A tribute to Juan Gabriel. Laugh Out Loud with other entertainers. Come and enjoy our safe and comfortable atmosphere. Friday, December 21st and Saturday December 22nd at 10:00 p.m. Pre-Christmas fun. No cover.

NYE 2018 Rave Lineup
What a way to start 2019! Barry Ashworth and Jizz have signed on to play at the Mind & Me NYE Label Party! They'll join, Night Quest, Greg Goldsack, Under the Moon, and DJ nonstop. It'll all go down at Casa Sofia.

BELIZE FISHING REPORT: Dec 16, 2018
Wind shift to the Northwest provided the chance to fish the east side of the island for the past few days. Snook fishing around the mangroves continues to be good.

Corozal House of Culture Hosts Children’s Comparsa Workshop
The National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) through the Museum of Belize and the Corozal House of Culture is happy to invite children ages 8 – 13 to participate in the Corozal House of Culutre’s “Juan Carnaval Comparsa Workshop”. This fun, exciting and lively workshop will engage children in dance and song. The Comparsas will be created using Belizean folklore as the theme, with a modern twist. The comparsa groups will be preparing to present at “Juan Carnaval” in early March 2019. This event begins Monday, December 17, through to Wednesday, December 19th. Children will be supervised from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon and 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Interested persons may kindly register for this free workshop via email, Facebook message, call 422-0071 or visit the Corozal House of Culture.

FREE: #TreeTuesday posters! From Ya'axché Conservation Trust
We have decided to share our #TreeTuesday posters. Kindly share this resource especially with teachers you know. We enjoyed compiling information on the Trees of Belize. We will return in 2019 with more. Have a wonderful holiday.

Channel 7

Former Guat FM To Hon. Elrington on Invasion Threat: "Say What?"
You probably remember Carlos Raul Morales, he's the former Guatemalan Foreign Minister who was famously friendly with Belize's FM, Wilfred Elrington. Morales was replaced by Sandra Jovel a little over a year ago. But, now he's running for Vice President. Today in Guatemala City, a contingent of Belizean media spoke to him at the Belizean Embassy in that city. We asked him about Wilfred Elrington's sensational remark last week. Belize's Foreign Minister said that Guatemala could invade Belize if we voted no to the ICJ. Today, his old buddy Carlos Raul could not believe Elrington said that. Here's his reaction:

Former Guat FM Explains Those Maddening Maps
We also spoke to Carlos Raul about Guatemala's official position on those offensive official maps which include Belizean territory - as a part of Guatemala. He said it is a matter of law:.. Reporter: "Ive seen many maps of Guatemala, but when it comes to Belize there is only one map. So for example the primary school child in Belize, you go to any school, you ask them to draw the map of Belize. They will draw the exact same map, a map that is behind you. Now, in Guatemala what would your children draw?"

Senator Lizarraga Says EPZ Legislation Sloppy and Rushed
The senate met today in Belmopan and Belize's Export Processing Zone amendment bill was the primary focus of discussion. As we have been reporting, the WTO says Belize's EPZ regulations violate its rules on subsidies. So now, EPZ's will be replaced with Designated Processing Areas, or DPA's. As you heard Prime Minister Barrow say at last Wednesday's House meeting, the government is on a tight deadline - the new laws have to be in place by the end of this month or Belize can face sanctions. Well, Business Senator Mark Lizarraga says deadline or not, there are some requirements in this new legislation that can affect investor confidence. Besides that, Lizarraga says that this amendment bill was done in a hurry and isn't clear enough.

EPZ Amendment Bill not Popular among Senators
NGO Senator Osmany Salas and PUP Senator Valerie Woods also shared their concerns with the EPZ amendment bill.

Senator Courtenay Says DPAC Composition Questionable
PUP Senator Eamon Courtenay also weighed in saying he has issue with the power the Minister has in appointing members of the Designated Processing Areas committee. Here is what he had to say. Hon. Eamon Courtenay, PUP Senator: "One of the issues that concerns me is the role of the minister that is being given to the minister responsible for designated processing areas under this piece of legislation and if we take a look at clause 3 of the bill, it says the DPAC shall consists of no more than 10 person who shall be appointed by the minister as representatives of the following and then it lists a number of ministries and then when it comes to the private sector one representative from the chamber of commerce, but it is not nominated by the chamber of commerce..."

Man Killed in Bladden Village Beat down
Tonight there are 2 murders from Southern Belize to report. We start first with the chopping murder of Marcos Chen, a 41 year-old Guatemalan Farmer from Bladden Village in the Toledo District. It happened sometime after 4 p.m. on last Friday evening. Chen was on his way to a fishing trip, and he passed by the home of a man who has been identified to police as Dario Sho. Police say that Chen was passing by Sho's house, when Sho began throwing rocks at him. Chen was injured in the head by one of those rocks, and the violent confrontation escalated to a machete fight, in which a group of young men, identified as relatives of Sho, jumped in, and they all put a beatdown on Sho.

Killer Hitcher Stabs Red Bank Man
We turn now to this morning's murder of 41 year-old Marcos Ack, a farmer from Red Bank Village in the southern edge of the Stann Creek District. Police say that at around 8 a.m., he was on his way to Mango Creek Village to sell his vegetables, when he stopped to offer a ride to a man he knew from Dangriga. Unfortunately, his good deed was repaid with a robbery attempt, when this hitch hiker pulled a knife on him and tried to hold him up.

Tim Shop Terror, Two Men Injured in Shooting
And while these killings happened in the South, in the west, there was a shooting in Roaring Creek Village which landed 2 men in the hospital. At around 11:30 on last Friday night, police found 29 year-old Amer Estuardo Morales, and 22 year-old Celio Ogaldez, both of the village, suffering from non-fatal gunshot injuries to the leg and the hand. Both men were socializing with others in front of a shop in the village, when a gunman approached and opened fire on the group. Here's what police had to say about this particular incident:

Armenia Man Escapes Home Attack
So, while those two victims continue to recover from their injuries, a man from Armenia was very fortunate to escape unhurt after someone fired gunshots at his front door.... Police say that he was out in the yard doing some cleaning when the shooter opened fire at his residence. ACP Joseph Myvett: "On Sunday one Ronnie Cano, 36 years old Belizean laborer of Armenia Village visited the Armenia Police sub-Station where he reported that sometime around 2pm whilst cleaning his yard..."

Ladyville Teen Shot in Back
We turn now to a shooting in Ladyville which left a 17 year-old suffering from a gunshot injury to the back. Police say that at around 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 15th, they visited Partridge Street in Ladyville, where they found 17 year-old Norman Haulze suffering from a gunshot wound to upper left side of his back. Their investigation has so far revealed that another young man went to the house looking for someone else, and an argument erupted between Haulze and his shooter.

Police Say Little Tevin's Mom Shares the Blame in his Death
Today's press conference gave the media an opportunity to question police about last Thursday's accident in which a GSU officer knocked down 2 year-old Tevin Cacho. As we told you, at around 8 o'clock that night, the GSU pick up pulled on his mother and a group of other adults who police say were engaging in public drinking on Iguana Street Extension in Belize City. His mother left him in the care of a friend, and when she returned from a nearby shop, she found him crushed under the wheel of the GSU mobile.

Police Not Giving up on Anisha
The Deputy Commissioner also took questions from the press about the police's engagement in the search effort to locate 23 year-old Anisha Young. She's been missing for about 9 days now, and you saw last week Wednesday's Newscast, how her family went to camp out in front of the Queen Street Police Station, demanding that police do more to help them look for her. Williams acknowledged today that police will be doing more to provide support to Anisha's family, in the hopes that they can get closure in the case:

Where is Iverson Neal?
Tonight, the family of 23 year-old Iverson Neal is worry about his whereabouts after he left his Belize City Home on last week Wednesday. He was heading to the El Rancho area in the Cayo District, and since his last communication with his girlfriend, no one has seen or heard from him. Police say that they are now looking for him. ASP Alejandro Cowo, CIB - Eastern Division: "On yesterday's date just at about 3pm, family members of Iverson Neal made a missing person report..."

Greg Dillon: Still Missing at Sea
And on last Friday's newscast, we told you about 32 year-old Greg Dillon, a fisherman from Kings Park in Belize City. Last week, he went out on a fishing trip, and it was confirmed that he arrived at his fishing camp in the Turneffe Atoll area. He left his side-man at the fishing camp, but he has not arrived home. His family is worried that he is lost at sea, and police spoke with the press about his case today:

BTL Park Blaze
There was a small fire inside the BTL Park on Saturday night, which caused a stir, and left the thatch roofing of a palapa destroyed. Fortunately, the authorities quickly got the situation under control, and today, police shared more details with the press: ASP Alejandro Cowo, CIB - Eastern Division: "On Saturday night just before midnight, police were called to BTL Park, located on Newtown Barracks where upon arrival they observed one of the palapas engulfed in fire..."

Chester Speaks on Future of Pier One
And keeping in on the BTL Park, today, the press took the opportunity to question Deputy Police Commissioner Chester Williams about the security concerns about the Pier 1 Night Club, which is inside the Park. As viewers are aware, the recent fatal shooting which happened at the night club has sparked public outcry for decisive action to be taken against the bar. The concern is that its presence in the park makes it unsafe for families and children who go there to socialize. Deputy ComPol Williams said that police will seek to discuss the security concerns with the management:

Does New Truck mean no more Block Fires on San Pedro?
If you're an avid news watcher, you'll know that the island of San Pedro has been one of the communities in the country that has suffered the most devastation by huge fires. And when fires happen on the island town, entire blocks are wiped out because the blaze quickly spreads to nearby homes and business, due to the congested nature of the different neighborhoods. The last terrible fire to happen there was back in June when a family of 4 perished inside their home in the Escalante Subdivision. 2 months later, 87 residents became homeless when another huge fire wiped out 10 homes.

Guatemalan Think Tank Says Their Yes To ICJ is About Seeking Civil Solution
As we told you earlier on the news - a contingent of 10 Belizean journalists is in Guatemala City tonight. The trip is sponsored by the US Embassy and organized by Belize's Embassy in that Capital. They are there interviewing analysts, politicians, election officials and other journalists and others about the feeling in Guatemala leading up to the April 10th referendum in Belize.

Guatemalan Public Consultation Analyst Says Guatemalan Claims Has No Hope At ICJ
We also spoke to Juan Pablo Pira - he's also with "Asi Es" and he's in charge of sampling public opinion for the "Think Tank". He was very candid and plain- spoken about what he feels would be Guatemala's chances if it took its case to the ICJ:

Carlos Raul Says Real Threat in Sarstoon Is Organized Crime
AND, after conducting over an hour long session of interviews at "Asi Es" - the media rushed through thick traffic in Guatemala City - to the Belizean Embassy - where former foreign minister Carlos Raul Morales appeared to field questions from the 10 journalists. The team pressed him mostly on the Sarstoon Protocol which he agreed to as Foreign Minister in Turkey in April of 2017. Morales changed the argument though; he said it's not about protocol, or territory, it's about organized crime. Here's how he put it:..

Carlos Raul Made Protocol Pledge In Turkey, So Why Back Out Now
And now we go back to Guatemala City where a large part of the Belizean press corps is encamped tonight - gauging public sentiment in that country about the upcoming referendum in Belize. You've already heard from former Foreign Minister Carlos Raul Morales tonight - speaking on various subjects. But, as we told you earlier, the media pressed him mostly on the Sarstoon Protocol - which the Guatemalans agreed to, but now refuse to finalize. Jules Vasquez pressed him on it when he said that Guatemala only wants peace.:

ACP Pushes Guatemala on Protocol, Carlos Raul Says Que Viva ICJ
We also pressed Morales to talk about the international pressure that Guatemala continues to come under because it has not completed this very same protocol. Again, he held the state line: first to the ICJ: Jules Vasquez will have much more form Guatemala City in tomorrow's news.

Police Give Christmas Safety Tips
We're only 8-days away from Christmas, and you might be one of those early birds who's already gone out and purchased all those presents, or your ham and Turkey. But, for all those last-minute shoppers, the police department is currently engaging in their Christmas anti-crime campaign. It's a month-long initiative where the department steps up their presence in the major commercial centers to try and minimize the number of burglaries, robberies, and theft. They, however, cannot do it all alone, and they're relying on you to do your part to keep yourself safe during the Christmas season. The Deputy Police Commissioner had a few tips that he wanted to share with the public, and here's what he had to say:

PM on Personal Leave
Prime Minster Dean Barrow left the country on Friday for a personal leave. He is to return on Wednesday, December 19th. During his absence, Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Faber will be the acting Prime Minister.

Channel 5

Guat former Foreign Minister expresses shock over Sedi’s “invasion” comment!
A few weeks ago a delegation of Belizean media travelled to the Netherlands on a U.S. Embassy sponsored trip to learn more about the International Court of Justice. The second [...]

Police Won’t Take Responsibility for Running Over Baby Tevin
Two-year old Tevin Cacho remains at the Karl Huesner Memorial Hospital where his condition has improved slightly. The toddler was crushed by a police mobile on Thursday evening as he [...]

A Hitchhiker Murders Good Samaritan in Southern Belize
There were a number of shooting across the country but we go south where two men were murdered in separate incidents. A motorist giving a hitchhiker a ride to Independence [...]

A Guatemalan Laborer is Mutilated in Bladen by a Mob of Angry Brothers
The other murder in southern Belize involved a Guatemalan national who was viciously hacked to death in Bladen Village on Friday evening.  Police say forty-one-year-old Marcus Chen was chopped multiple [...]

Annie Young Remains Missing, Police Regroup Their Efforts to Find Her
Twenty-three-year-old Anisha Young remains missing over a week after she was last seen catching a cab on the entertainment strip.  With every day that passes by, the glimmer of hope [...]

Four Persons Injured in Roaring Creek Shooting
Two residents from Roaring Creek, Cayo, are recuperating tonight following a shooting over the weekend in the village. The two victims of gun violence were among a group of persons [...]

PUP Senator Calls for Legislation to address Domestic Violence
Gender-based violence remains a constant issue; the Domestic Violence Act was strengthened in 2007 to deal with the issue but its implementation remains a challenge. Over the past couple of [...]

Designated Processing Areas Bill Passed by Senate
The Senate today passed the Designated Processing Areas Bill. It’s a piece of legislation that will replace the Export Processing Zone Act and according to the government, the Designated Processing [...]

Senators Debate Income and Business Tax Amendment Bill
The Senate also passed the Income and Business Tax Amendment Bill which seeks not only to create a tax regime for companies engaged in certain business activities but also to [...]

Income and Business Tax Amendment Bill Passed
Like the Income and Business Tax Amendment Bill, it was necessary for the International Business Companies Amendment Bill to be passed before the year ends. That bill seeks to eliminate [...]

Why has Guatemala failed to fulfil its commitment to the Sarstoon Protocol?
Earlier we heard from Carlos Raul Morales, who left diplomatic service over a year ago and was replaced by Foreign Minister Sandra Polanco. But we asked him to weigh in [...]

Can negotiations continue in place of going to the ICJ? Guat Former Foreign Minister weighs in.
In his interview today, Morales, as the same with others we interviewed reiterated their hope that Belizeans will vote yes in the upcoming referendum to take the claim to the [...]

Digi gifts San Pedro Fire Station with a fully-equipped fire truck
The San Pedro Fire Department received a fire-truck today thanks to Digi. The fully-equipped fire-truck is the third to be added to the fire station’s fleet.  Fire officials say it [...]

Fire Destroys Palapa at BTL Park
A small fire destroyed a thatch cover at B.T.L. Park on Saturday night. According to police, someone may have left a lit cigarette under a palapa adjacent to Pier One [...]

Norman Haulze is Shot in Ladyville
Was the shooting of seventeen-year-old Norman Haulze, in Ladyville on Saturday morning, retaliation for a murder that took place at Pier One a week ago?  Haulze’s older brother, Leroy, is [...]

Safety Tips to Avoid Getting Jacked this Christmas
Safety tips on how to avoid getting mugged while out shopping during the Christmas Season are an important part of your holiday guide. This afternoon, top cop Chester Williams gave [...]

Senate remembers Dr. Jane Usher
All Belize flags were flown at half-mast today in respect of the iconic Doctor Jane Usher who passed away in her home on Wednesday, December, twelfth. Known for founding the [...]

COP24 outcome is “fair” for the CARICOM states!
All of last week we’ve been reporting on the negotiations at COP24 in Katowice, Poland. The negotiations progressed slowly and it wasn’t until Saturday night around ten that the final [...]

COP24 Final Agreement spells positive ‘finance’ news!
A big part of the discussions for the past two weeks at COP24 focused on finance. It was one of the contentious and drawn out topics at the negotiations. Carlos [...]

Weekend Sports with James Adderley
Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.   [Highlights of the weekend sporting activities....]

LOVE FM

Police Anti-Crime Christmas Campaign offers escort services for businesses
The police department has ramped up an anti-crime campaign to coincide with the increased commerce associated with Christmas shopping. Deputy Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams, who is also the Commander of Operations for the Police Department says that the operation started on the first of December. However, the operation is quite new as the police …

Minor shot while socializing
A 17-year-old minor is lucky to be alive and in stable condition as he was shot at close range. Norman Hauzle was around the corner from his home socializing with friends when someone came into the yard and hit him with a weapon. The police say the impact of the assault triggered the gun and …

Will there be a Sarstoon Protocol?
The question as to why a protocol to manage the Sarstoon has still not been drafted, lingers to this day. Despite the commitment by both Belize and Guatemala officials in a meeting in Istanbul, Turkey, the two parties are yet to carry through with it. In an interview with the then Foreign Minister for Guatemala, …

Senate questions sections of Income and Business Tax amendment Bill
The Senate proceeded to debate the Income and Business Tax (Amendment) bill. The amendment became necessary as government seeks to comply with pressures brought upon the Government by the European Union and principally, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, OECD. This is an intergovernmental economic organization with 36 member countries. Over the years, Belize …

A fire near Pier 1, but questions linger about bar safety
On Saturday night there was a fire in BTL Park at a palapa directly in front of the Pier 1 Bar. It is not affiliated with the bar, but it is the only establishment that serves alcohol and the police say men who were drinking and smoking may have caused the fire accident. Pier 1 …

Police refuse to say if Urine Sample taken from Officer involved in Accident
Last Thursday, two-year-old boy, Tevin Cacho was run over by a police mobile on Iguana Street. An officer assigned to the Gang Suppression Unit was at the wheel. Thereafter, Cacho was rushed to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital where he was admitted in a critical condition. At today’s police press brief the media learned of …

Senators question consultations on Processing Areas Amendment Bill and the role of the Minister
The Senate met this morning to debate four bills that were brought from the House of Representatives. The first presented for debate was the Designated Processing Areas Bill 2018. The bill aims to facilitate investment, production of value adding of enterprises in Belize in national priority sectors, and to ensure compliance with regulations and standards, …

Two men shot in deadly attack but survive; police don’t know who was the target
Across the country there were violent incidents over the weekend and spanned into the western part of the country. Two men were shot in Roaring Creek Village but survived. Dalila Ical travelled west and filed this report. Dalilah Ical: “A lone gunman opened fire upon a group of people that were gathered at Tim’s Shop …

Belize’s Under 17 team emerged victorious over Guatemala
Last Friday, youths, from Belize and Guatemala went up against each other in a friendly football match at the Marion Jones Sporting Complex. As a result, Belize’s Under 17 team emerged victorious over Guatemala’s U-17 team, two to nothing. Love News spoke to the head coach, Dale Pelayo Sr., who said the game is part …

A hurled rock ends in murder
There were two murders that occurred over the past few days. On Friday at 4:30 pm, a man identified as Marcos Chen was stoned while heading to a fishing area in Bladen Village. The situation got escalated as his assailant and the assailant’s brothers attacked and killed him viciously. The Head of the National Crimes …

Breaking Belize News

Guatemala will respect ICJ’s decision, says Former Foreign Affairs Minister Carlos Morales
On April 10, 2019, Belizeans will be asked to vote in favor of or against taking […]

Guatemala wants to find a solution to claim on Belize
Former Foreign Affairs Minister of Guatemala, Carlos Morales today told Belizean journalists that Guatemala wants to […]

There is no Sarstoon Protocol!
Belizeans have long questioned if Belize and Guatemala officially signed a protocol for the Sarstoon River […]

Corozal House of Culture hosts Children’s Comparsa workshop
CThe National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) through the Museum of Belize and the Corozal […]

Man chopped to death in Toledo; Police searching for 4 men
Assistant Commissioner of Police, Joseph Myvett, today provided more details on Friday’s chopping death of Marcos […]

Chester Williams: Expecting worst but hoping for best in case of Anisha Young
Anisha Young has been missing since last weekend when she left Sit and Sip en route […]

Chester to Pier One: Prevent gang members from entering if rivals are already present
Days ago, Asher Saunders, was killed at the Pier One nightclub in Belize City. Since then, […]

Good Samaritan robbed and killed by hitchhiker
The deceased has been identified as Marcos Ack. According to police reports, this morning Ack was […]

Police investigate shooting in Armenia Village
Armenia resident, Roni Cano, visited police on Sunday afternoon to lodge an officialreport. According to him, […]

Former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Guatemala: “We will use maps that include Belize as part of our territory until ICJ decides on the dispute”
Belizean journalists today met with Guatemala’s Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carlos Morales in Guatemala City. […]

Belize flags to be flown at half-mast in respect of Dr. Jane Usher
Belize flags to be flown at half-mast in respect of Dr. Jane Usher In respect of the late Dr. Jane Usher, Prime Minister Dean Barrow has […]

Guatemalan officials say 26% voter turnout is historic
Belizean journalists are in Guatemala city meeting with Guatemalan officials to get information on their […]

Blogs

LoveFM Holiday Parade Finally Makes My Heart Burst With Pure Christmas Cuteness
Yesterday, as the sun set on a grey CHILLY day, the LoveFM 8th Annual Christmas Parade lined up at Boca Del Rio Park just north of San Pedro town. Kids in satin soldier outfits twirling candy canes, tiny girls in glittered tutus and feathered wings and this girl. The STAR of the Town Council’s live nativity scene. I think she did it. As I’d say in Kriol, mi heart dun bust. So much Christmas spirit, so many excited kids and parents…watching pretend-bad-ass teens scramble for candy thrown by Santa. It was just too much. The parade this year was bigger and better than ever before.

5 Traditional Garifuna Dishes You Must Try in Belize
For all the foodies out there! If you want to take your taste buds on a roller coaster ride of deliciousness, then you'll definitely want to try these 5 traditional Garifuna dishes! These are some of the best foods to taste in Belize! Sere, Hudut, Cassava Bread, Sahou, Cassava Pudding.

Belize City Tour with Belize Blue Morpho Tours
If you are interested in learning about the history of Belize during the colonial times when Great Britain ruled the land, then you should take a Belize City tour. Scattered around the city, you will find several historic buildings and landmarks that tell the story of British Honduras and how Belize came to be. Some notable buildings are The Museum of Belize, the Supreme Court of Belize, and St. John’s Cathedral. On your tour of Belize City, you will see many buildings featuring colonial-style architecture, and some still standing by the support of “London bricks.” Come along with us and read about our experience sightseeing in Belize City with Belize Blue Morpho Tours. This tour is perfect for cruise passengers looking for things to do in the Belize city cruise port, and also available to overnight visitors staying in or near Belize City.

Christmas on a Budget
Why celebrate Christmas on a budget? Well, holiday gift-giving can be a drain on both your mental health & wallet. Research shows there is a 25% increase in the number of people seeking financial assistance from January – February; most of the requests are propelled by holiday bills haunting customers like Ghosts of Christmas Past. To avoid the strain on your pocket, here are some tips to help celebrate Christmas with a budget and stay within your limits. Set a spending limit and don’t start with your shopping or to-do list. Make a list of your holiday obligations and scale back on some unnecessary expenses. To remain a step ahead, slightly overestimate the cost of items in case there has been any recent price change. Reconcile your shopping list and receipts to match your budget.

Mastering the Art of Maya Cooking
Part of the spell-binding magic of Ka’ana is its deep roots in the Maya culture. Our strategic location is set (literally!) on the doorstep of an ancient Maya city and has inspired Ka’ana’s name which means “Heavenly Place.” We aspire to expose as much of this great culture as possible through our stunning adventures that take you to the top of thousand-year old temples or deep into the sacred underworld. We’ve even brought the Maya magic into our resort with the unique decor and authentic pottery on display throughout the entire property. Most of our guests are left with a sense of wonder at the rich history of the Maya people, and plenty have asked to learn more about the culture. And with the holiday season upon us (and all the cooking and baking happening) what better way to share in the holiday festivities than to take a culinary journey with the Maya’s and learn how to create your own unique dish to possibly serve at your next holiday gathering.

International Sources

CDB Funding Upgrade to Coastal Highway in Belize
The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has approved a loan of US$36.6 million and a grant of £25 million (US$31.5 million) to the Government of Belize, to upgrade the Coastal Highway. The funds will be used to improve climate resilience along the road, and increase connectivity between the southern and northern sections of Belize. “The project will have a transformative impact in nearby communities by reducing travel time, improving access to services such as health and education, and boosting economic development,” said Daniel Best, Director, Projects Department at CDB.

CSEF VI highlights transformative role clean energy can play in CARICOM
Clean energy in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has to be further developed to play a transformative role in economic development, poverty alleviation, and building resilience to deal with climate change. Electricity and fuel sector regulations also must be right-sized to suit the needs of member states, and stakeholders must find innovative forms of financing to advance the renewable energy drive in the region. These were among the positions participants took at the Caribbean Sustainable Energy Forum (CSEF) VI, which was held in Belize 18-21 November 2018, under the theme ‘Clean Energy, Good Governance and Regulations’.

Kendis Gibson leaving ABC World News Now
Watch his colleagues’ hilarious reaction... Kendis Gibson announced this morning that he is leaving ABC World News Now — and that this Friday, December 21, would be his final day on air. In footage from the show, which has since been shared on Twitter, Gibson interrupted his co-anchor while she dished the latest news about Offset and Cardi B to reveal that he’s leaving the program behind. The Belize native explained that he had decided to depart the overnight show to join the “daywalkers”. The news was met with a hilarious reaction from his colleagues who, as he announced the news, celebrated in the background with clapping and dancing. One person screamed out, “Finally!”

Videos

December 17, 2018

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

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

The San Pedro Sun

Belize Media lands in Guatemala!
Ahead of the referendum to be held in Belize in April 2019 on whether to take the Guatemalan territorial claim to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), a group of Belizean journalists are in Guatemala City, Guatemala to get the pulse of the Guatemalans on the territorial dispute. The trip, from Sunday, December 16th through the 19th, is the second phase of the program dubbed 'From Fear to Facts: Demystifying the ICJ,' sponsored by the Embassy of the United States of America in Belize.

Recall of Del Monte FIESTA CORN Seasoned with Red & Green Peppers
The Ministry of Health in partnership with the Belize Agriculture Health Authority (BAHA) and the Belize Bureau of Standards has been advised on a recall announcement from Del Monte Food Inc. of Fiesta Corn Seasoned with Red and Green Peppers. Although Del Monte Foods Inc. has not been notified of any reports of illness associated with the product, 62, 242 cases of this product carrying a specific code and date are being recalled due to under-processing which could lead to life-threatening illness if consumed.

Wolfe’s Woofer: Talking Creole
“I’m worried that my son now speaks almost nothing but Creole,” Bill said. “He’s never going to get into a good university in the U.S. if he doesn’t break that habit.” “All of the kids in Belize do what they call talking Creole,” I told him. “I wouldn’t worry about it.” Bill and I were having coffee on the deck at the Holiday Hotel. He and his wife and fifteen- year-old son, Billy, moved to Ambergris Caye four months ago. I said, “Let me call my friend, Malcom.”

Signing of the Chiquibul and Vaca Forests Joint Enforcement Protocol
December 13th, the Ministry of National Security (MNS), Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment, Sustainable Development and Immigration (MAFFESDI), and Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD) signed the Chiquibul and Vaca Forests Joint Enforcement Protocol. Signing the protocol were the Minister of National Security, Hon. John Saldivar; Chief Forest Officer, Mr. Wilber Sabido (MAFFESDI); and Executive Director of FCD, Mr. Raphael Manzanero. The protocol sets out a formalized Chiquibul and Vaca Forests Joint Enforcement Program to address illegal activities occurring within the forest which put the integrity of the forest ecosystem at risk and threaten the national security and territorial integrity of Belize.

Doctor Love: Second-Best
Dear Doctor Love, My sister has always been my mother’s favorite. I learned to accept it and move on. But I have noticed the same pattern happening with our children. We both have daughters around the same age, and it is obvious that our mother favors one grand-daughter over the other. My mother will go to the city to get my sister’s daughter the exact item she wants while my daughter gets something like what she wants with little effort made to try to get her the exact thing, even when it is available. If both girls draw a picture, my mother makes a big fuss over my sister’s child’s drawing but has little in the way of encouragement for my daughter.

Misc Belizean Sources

Caye Caulker Town Hall on the Referendum and the ICJ
Tonight at 7:00 p.m. Come out and get the facts on an important issue.

An opportunity for opposition parties to win the next general election in Belize
By Wellington C. Ramos. Since the United Democratic Party (UDP) government of Belize and the People’s United Party (PUP) both agreed to take the Guatemalan claim over Belize to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the Belizean people at home and abroad have become more insecure. Historically, in all the elections that were held in Belize the two main political parties, UDP and PUP, would bring up this issue and accuse each other of making concessions to Guatemala. But the only time this issue was front and center of Belize politics was back in the days when the leader of the National Independence Party (NIP), the late Philip Goldson, made it his top priority issue. I remember when some members of the PUP said he was crazy and that Guatemala will end up leaving Belize alone. Today, we can see that he knew what he was talking about because Guatemala still remains a ghost to our future.

LoveFM Christmas Parade
SPTC presented the Nativity Scene. Photos by Daniela Guerrero

The Reporter

THE REPORTER CHRISTMAS CHALLENGE . . . WOW !
To celebrate the Christmas season, The Reporter is having a five-day Christmas challenge starting tomorrow, December 17. The challenge includes completing a different activity each day, leading up to a grand prize give-away. The challenge is open to all our loyal followers and readers.

HIGHER ELECTRICITY RATES FOR NEW YEAR’S CHEER
Belize Electricity Limited announced this week that the high cost of purchasing power from Mexico has forced the company to seek an increase in electricity rates from the Public Utilities Commission. BEL said that it made the formal submission to the PUC on Monday for an increase in the Mean Electricity Rate (MER) from 39.3 cents per kilowatt hour to 41.4 cents per kilowatt hour, which would take effect for the remainder of the tariff review period from January 1 to June 30 2019.

Arson near Pier 1?
Last night a concrete bench with a thatched roof at the BTL park erupted into flames. Onlookers stood by as the small structure, which has no electricity wires of any kind link to it, burned wit flames high enough to be seen from a distance.

MAN CHOPPED TO DEATH IN TOLEDO
A man died in the Toledo district after he was brutally chopped with a machete. Police say that the incident happened in Bladen Village, between miles 52 and 53 on the Southern Highway. Guatemalan farmer Marcos Chen, 41, got into an altercation with one Dario Sho.

Breaking Belize News

Gaspar Vega not seeking re-election, his successor elected in convention
oday, the United Democratic Party (UDP) held a convention to elect a standard-bearer for the Orange Walk North constituency. When the final ballots were counted, Homero Novelo emerged victorious with 684 votes. His challenger, Eddie Mendez, only collected 477 votes.

Armed robbery reported in San Pedro
San Pedro police have issued an official report on a robbery which occurred on Friday night. According to reports, sometime around 8:30 p.m., two men entered Tienda Alissa in the San Mateo Area of Town. Once inside, one of the masked men pointed a firearm at the business owner, Maria Canek, 62.

Two men shot in Roaring Creek
A shooting in Roaring Creek, Cayo has left two men injured. They are Amer Estuardo Morales, 29, and Celio Ogaldez, 22. Moralez was shot to the right leg while Ogaldez was shot to the left hand.

Man chopped to death in Toledo
A man was chopped to death in Bladen, Toledo on Friday evening. He has been identified as Guatemalan national, Marcos Chen, 41. Information to BBN is that on Friday evening Chen was involved in a dispute with another man identified as Dario Sho.

Belize City Police investigate suspicious fire at Pier One
Sometime last night there was a fire inside BTL Park in Belize City. According to reports, a palapa near Pier One was set ablaze. Fortunately the fire was extinguished before it could spread and no one was injured.

San Ignacio shooting: Three men ‘targeted’ by gunman
nformation to BBN is that three persons were injured in a shooting incident last night. According to reports, sometime before midnight the persons were socializing in front of Tim’s Restaurant in San Ignacio, Cayo when a gunman emerged.

Former CEO wrote Minister Hulse months ago about diaspora inclusion in ICJ referendum
Former Chief Executive Officer of the Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute, Imani Fairweather, has publicly shared a letter she had penned in July to Godwin Hulse, the Minister of Immigration and Nationality, regarding the issue of the diaspora vote in the upcoming referendum.

Teen shot in Ladyville, Belize
A teenager is in a critical condition in the hospital after being shot yesterday in Ladyville. He has been identified as Norman Haulze, 17. Information to BBN is that yesterday, he and two other persons were at a home in Ladyville when a man arrived.

Family concerned over whereabouts of missing relative
At a time when many Belizeans have gone missing without atrace, the family of Iver Neal is concerned about his whereabouts. His sister posted to social media that on Wednesday he told family members that he was in El Rancho, Belmopan and en route to Punta Gorda, Toledo.

Blogs

Art In The Park was held on December 15, 2018
On December 15, 2018, it was the last Art in the Park for 2018. I headed to the event at Corozal Central Park, and I saw the place quite filled by a lot of locals in Corozal. This my first time seeing this event quite full with locals from Corozal. I reached just in time for music. I heard the host talking on the mic. I turned around, and I observed a white cloth tied up on the four corners and a Projector pointing on it. I saw words on it and from the distance, I couldn't recognize which song it was. I enjoyed watching them singing karaoke. From Christmas Karaoke, Spanish songs, Country Music, whatever the participants asked for was played. The Second thing I liked was the Cho! Cho! Train parking in front of Central Park. The Colored Christmas light was decorated and had several color lights. The Jumper for kids at the Art in The Park has always been used by kids. And, every time I walk here I can see that Red, Blue, and Yellow colored jumper, kids jumping inside of it. One of my favorite spot to buy food has always been Ms. Deb's Food. She sells her burger faster than any other food booths around Central Park. Her burger taste so great that I can't stop thinking about her food even after the event. She Always has the longest line, if you haven't tried her's as yet, you should come out and try her burgers.

Corozal Town held theie Christmas Parade 2018
Corozal Central Park was filled with Corozalenos, Tourists and from across Belize on December 16, 2018. They came to witness the Corozal Christmas Parade 2018 that commenced at 6pm. When I arrived at the Central Park I have already seen the colorful Christmas floats already lined up. I could have heard Christmas music from several floats. I heard the Siren from the distance coming towards me. One -by -one the floats came passing by as I snapped photos of each floats. There where a several number of businesses, Corozal Hospital, Marching Band; one from Mexico, cars and Motorcycles came out to participate in this years event. I saw some floats that had Santa Clause all dressed. The Marching Band played some great Christmas Music. Each member of the marching dance with great rythm movement. They perform very well. My favourite thing was seeing the floats decorated with different colors of Christmas lights. Seeing the Children, enjoyed getting some sweets, T-shirts that where being thrown at the street side.

International Sources

1.5 to stay alive
Change Centre, Belmopan, Belize. Two years ago in Paris, at the Conference Of Parties (COP) of the United Nations Framework Convention of Climate Change (UNFCCC), the global community concluded the historic Paris Agreement, which was hailed at the time as the platform for serious global action to address the existential risks engendered by climate change. The agreement called for countries to take action to significantly reduce their Green House Gas (GHG) emissions, so as to limit the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2 degrees centigrade, and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degree centigrade above pre-industrial levels, recognizing that this would significantly reduce the risks and impacts of climate change. The two degree target was agreed at the COP in Copenhagen in 2009 but at that time, the Caribbean and other Small Island Developing Countries (SIDS) espoused a 1.5 degree limit for global warning, as successive studies emphasized the dangers of a two degree warming world and the difficulty of avoiding “runaway” climate change were global warming to exceed the 1.5 threshold.

Videos

December 16, 2018

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

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

The San Pedro Sun

Shooting in DFC San Pedro
Police are processing a crime scene on an unknown street in the DFC Area of San Pedro Town following a shooting tonight. Unofficial reports are that an unknown gunman tried to ambushed a local businessman when he was returning home. Witnesses say that there was an exchange of gunshots, no one was injured, and the assailant fled leaving a bicycle behind. We will have an update as soon as the police provide an official report.

The Nutcracker shines at Island Academy Christmas pageant 2018
The Christmas spirit was present at The Island Academy (TIA) on Wednesday, December 12th for their annual Christmas pageant. This year, the students delighted their audience with a musical performance of the Nutcracker. Parents, teachers, and guests experienced the joy of Christmas with the creative and colorful performances by the students. The show started at 7PM with Founder Lady Dixie Bowen welcoming the families and guests to the 23rd Christmas celebration. She commended the teachers, staff, and students of TIA for organizing another memorable show. She also thanked the parents who were present to watch their children perform.

SICA VIII Ordinary Session of Ministers of Energy held in San Pedro Town
San Pedro hosted the 8th Ordinary Session of Ministers of Energy of Central America including the Dominican Republic from Thursday, December 6th to Friday, December 7th at the Banyan Bay Suites. The event is part of the annual meetings of the Central American Integration System (SICA) for Energy Directors and Ministers. The gathering sought to strengthen the cooperation between member countries to better the region regarding energy usage and accessibility. The event was hosted by Belize’s Ministry of Public Service, Energy, and Public Utilities, under the leadership the Minister of State Honourable Frank ‘Papa’ Mena.

Speaker of the House of Representatives of Belize attends the 36th Session of the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Honourable Laura Tucker- Longsworth led Belize’s delegation to the 36th Session of the Africa Caribbean Pacific – European Union (ACP-EU) Joint Parliamentary Assembly, following the 52nd Session of the ACP Parliamentary Assembly. From 28th to 30th November 2018, the Honourable Madam Speaker participated in the 52nd Session of the ACP Parliamentary Assembly. During the meeting of the Committee on Political Affairs, Madam Speaker relayed an update on the Belize-Guatemala process and the latest developments on Belize’s preparations towards its referendum in April 2019.

Storyteller and music writer Stuart Stotts teaches arts integration at ACES
American author, musician and storyteller Stuart Stotts visited the Ambergris Caye Elementary School (ACES) from Monday, December 10th through the 14th, to show teachers how to integrate arts in their teaching methods. Some of the strategies included drama, movement, and music to make lessons more interesting, and interactive, rather than using traditional methods. Stotts, a native from Wisconsin, USA has been holding these educational training in schools around the world for the past 30 years. The opportunity to come to ACES and San Pedro Town stems from an online teaching program from the University of Wisconsin- Oshkosh, in which some ACES teachers are currently enrolled. Stott often works with this teaching program that involves arts integration and thus, was asked to visit ACES. “You can only teach so much online. You need some on the ground interaction at some point,” said Stotts.

Miss Belize Jenelli Fraser making her mark at Miss Universe 2018

Channel 5

Ladyville’s Christmas Tree Vandalized
A Christmas tree erected in Ladyville Village was vandalized by person(s). Area Representative and Minister Beverly Williams wrote “It lasted all of one week!!! Sad reality! The first pic was the lighted tree after the ceremony on the 8th December, 2018. The second pic was taken tonight, 14 December, 2018. Third pic shows the broken bulbs and actual removal of the bulbs from their sockets.

Fatal Chopping in Bladen Village
The body of a man was discovered along the Southern Highway. News Five has learned that Marcos Chen was brutally attacked and chopped to death on Friday evening in Bladen Village, Toledo.

Misc Belizean Sources

Reecie Pollard in Concert on Caye Caulker
Get into the Christmas spirit and Come on out with the family and invite a friend to our Reggae concert with Reecie Pollard lots to eat and drink. Fun fun fun. Sunday December 23, 2018. 8pm-10pm Caye Caulker Basketball Court, Dance follows to 12midnight

5 a side Football Marathon in San Pedro on Sunday
Caye Caulker female Strikers football team is heading for a five a side marathon to San Pedro Sunday at 8.30 am leaving from tsunami pier price is 20 bze per person. COME SUPPORT THE TEAM!

JPIIJC Launches Gift Exhibit
John Paul II Junior College opened their art exhibit, entitled Gift, which features art from many of their students. "Congratulations to all our artists in their debut exhibition, Gift. Opening night was a smashing success!" more...

Las Posadas de Cayo 2018
Tis the season for Las Posadas. They start Saturday night in Benque and San Ignacio. They'll start at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church at 8:00pm, and will be every night through the 24th.

THE ATM CAVE IS OPEN
Institute of Archaeology: ALL OTHER ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESERVES ARE ALSO OPEN

The Reporter

FAMILY NEEDS HELP FINDING MISSING FISHERMAN
The family of missing fisherman Greg Dillon is asking the public to be on the lookout for him and call them with any information that could lead to his whereabouts. Dillon left home on Saturday, December 8, preparing to leave for a fishing trip. His wife, Genay Dillon, said that she expected for him to be gone for a few days, but hasn’t seen or heard from him since.

THREE PEOPLE INJURED IN SAN IGNACIO SHOOTING
Three people were injured during a late night shooting in front of Tim’s Restaurant in San Ignacio last night. Reports are that sometime between 11 p.m. and 12 a.m. a gunman walked up to the establishment and opened fire hitting two people and grazing a third then escaped on foot. Notably, the incident happened short distance from a police station.

Breaking Belize News

Prime Minister Departs Country on Personal Leave
The Office of the Prime Minister informs the public that PM Barrow left the country today on personal leave. The Prime Minister will return to Belize on Wednesday, 19th December 2018. In his absence, the Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Faber will act as Prime Minister.

Family offers $30,000 reward to find Anisha Young
The family of Anisha “Anny” Young is now offering a $30,000 reward for information leading to her discovery. Young has been missing for almost a week now and her family is hoping to find her safe and alive very soon.

Minister of Foreign Affairs says Guatemala might invade if Belize votes not to ICJ, PM says stop fear mongering
Minister of Foreign Affairs Wilfred “Sedi” Elrington,in an interview with the media on Thursday, said if Belize votes ‘No’ to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in next year’s scheduled referendum on the unresolved territorial claim, there is a possibility of a Guatemalan invasion.

Nigel Hawke to exit post as Solicitor General
Since 2013 Nigel Hawke has served as Belize’sSolicitor General, however, at the end of this month he will no longer serve inthat capacity. That is because his contract will have expired and he has not sought a new one. Information to BBN is that he will be practicing privately.

Accused child molester gets bail
Although he has been accused of sexual assault against a child, Reginald Coleman, 63, is back at home in Maxboro, Belize. That is because yesterday Magistrate Christina Perrera offered him bail of $5,000 and adjourned the matter until February 12, 2019.

National Assembly pays tribute to Dr. Jane Usher
The National Assembly of Belize announced yesterday that a special tribute to the Late Mrs. Jane Ellen Usher, former parliamentarian, would be given during the Special Sitting of the House of Representatives on Wednesday, December 12. After a brief moment of silence, Prime Minister of Belize, Dean Barrow gave a remark about the tremendous contribution that the late Usher gave to the Credit Union League in Belize.

Belize hosts LII meeting of the Heads of State and Government of the Central American Integration System (SICA)
Yesterday, the Heads of State and Government of Central American countries convened for the LII Summit of the Central American Integration System (SICA). The meeting was chaired by the outgoing President Pro Tempore of SICA, Prime Minister of Belize, Dean Barrow.

Belize city fisherman reported missing
Police are investigating the disappearance of 32-year-old fisherman Greg Dillon of Belize city. Dillon is 5 feet 9 inches tall. He weighs about 170 lbs.

ACP States reassert commitment to Belize’s territorial integrity and sovereignty
The 108th Session of the African, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) Council of Ministers concluded yesterday by adopting a Resolution that reasserts the 79 ACP States’ unflinching commitment to the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Belize in the context of Guatemala’s claim.

Videos

December 15, 2018

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Specials and Events

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

The San Pedro Sun

Consultation held to discuss the integration of Corozal as tourism and agricultural product supplier
A business consultation hosted by the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Commerce along with Vivid Economics, a consultancy from the United Kingdom, engaged San Pedro Town stakeholders on Saturday, December 8th. The consultation discussed possible economic strategies to revamp the Corozal Free Zone and improve the integration of the Corozal economy in northern Belize with the rest of the country. Held at the Sunbreeze Hotel conference room, the meeting discussed how to improve tourism services and the possibility of bringing agricultural and free zone goods from Corozal to the island. The formal gathering saw representatives from the island’s hospitality industry supporting the initiative, and willing to study the possibility of building bridges and trade with the Corozal District.

Ministerial Meeting for the Central American Agricultural Council of SICA
The Ministry of Agriculture hosted a Ministerial Meeting of the Central American Agricultural Council (CAC) in furtherance of Belize’s Presidency of the SICA. Hon. Senator Godwin Hulse, Minister of Agriculture, in his capacity as President Pro Tempore of the Council presided over the meeting. During Belize’s presidency, one of the major focuses was the implementation of a roadmap for the formulation and presentation of a Regional Agricultural Policy 2018-2030. The initiative, which was led by the Regional Technical Committee, has had the input of the Technical Working Groups, international organizations and representatives of the private sector.

Island Triple R Response Team receives generous donation
Ambergris Caye’s water emergency response team, Triple R Response, were presented with a donation of supplies and equipment at the National Emergency Management (NEMO) office in San Pedro Town on Monday, December 10th. The supplies are expected to aid the Triple R Response Team on the island, particularly for emergencies at sea. It is expected that with an effective and well-equipped rescue team, the possibilities of a fatal accident at sea will be minimized. Rickilee Response & Rescue (Triple R Response) is a 501-3(c) charitable organization based in Houston, Texas, USA, that was formed in memory of Rickilee Mercer by Traci and Jim Curtin. Mercer was an American National, who was found dead on the leeward coast of Ambergris Caye on March 1, 2017. She was reported missing on February 28, 2017, after she had gone jet skiing around the area of Secret Beach. In June 2017, the Curtins initiated the Triple R Response program in hopes of organizing a program that coordinates community resources to respond to water emergencies.

Unknown gunman pellets Turley residence
The Turley home, located in the San Pablo Sub-division, south of San Pedro Town, was the target of a shooting on the early hours of Sunday, December 9th. Although no one was hurt, a member of the family told The San Pedro Sun that as many as ten gunshots were fired towards their home, with at least six of them hitting windows and other parts of the house. After the incident, the family claims to have received death threats from unknown persons, and have reported these to the authorities. As of press time, no official report on the shooting has been made available by the police department. The Turley family believes that the attack might be linked to an incident that occurred on September 9th when a suspected arson destroyed a Honda motorcycle belonging to 21-year-old Trent Turley.

Melanie Paz elected national President of BTIA 2019 – 2020
San Pedrana Melanie Paz was elected as the new president 2019-2021 of the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) during its 33rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Belize City on Thursday, December 6th. The event also saw the re-election of Stewart Krohn as Second Vice President. The meeting held discussions on the Association’s accomplishments over the past twelve months and the state of the tourism industry. Paz took over from Raineldo Guerrero, who served as interim president of the tourism industry organization after Senator Osmany Salas stepped down in the AGM last year. Salas represents the Non-Governmental Organization community in the government and stated that he left the presidency to focus more on his duties and responsibilities as the NGO Senator. In an interview with The San Pedro Sun, Paz said that it is an honor to serve as the new BTIA president. According to her, it has been a while since BTIA elected a woman as president, especially from San Pedro. “I have some big shoes to fill, but I am up to the challenge,” Paz said.

Ambergris Today

Recall Of Del Monte FIESTA CORN Seasoned With Red & Green Peppers
The Ministry of Health in partnership with the Belize Agriculture Health Authority (BAHA) and the Belize Bureau of Standards has been advised on a recall announcement from Del Monte Food Inc. of Fiesta Corn Seasoned with Red and Green Peppers. Although Del Monte Foods Inc. has not been notified of any reports of illness associated with the product, 62, 242 cases of this product carrying a specific code and date are being recalled due to under-processing which could lead to life-threatening illness if consumed.

Misc Belizean Sources

Caribbean Colors Art Cafe annual Christmas Brunch
Caribbean Colors Art Cafe will be open for our annual Christmas Brunch with 2 seatings, 10 a.m. and Noon. Space is limited to 20 people per seating, so get your ticket in advance to be assured of a place. We will not be serving our regular menu on Christmas Day. Fixed Price meal with tip included, 35 bzd/$17.50 U.S. per person. Also available for those wanting lighter fare: Christmas Continental Breakfast, Fixed price meal 20 bzd (includes tip), Fruit Cup drizzled with rum cream, Choose Cinnamon Bread Pudding OR Au Gratin potatoes, Spinach and Cheese Frittata.

Painting at Paint N Splash
Do you want to make memories this holiday season?? Come create with us this Saturday!! Kids paint sessions are at 10am and 1pm for only $25bze! Come create some starfish ornaments. We have different sizes. Prices starting at $10bze! What deal! What an experience! See you on Saturday!!!

Opening Ceremony of the LII Meeting of the Heads of State and Government of the SICA
Opening Remarks were presented by Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow and Secretary General of SICA Mr. Vinicio Cerezo.

Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow and Guatemalan President Jimmy Morales meet
This morning the Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow and Guatemalan President Jimmy Morales met during a bilateral meeting ahead of the LII Meeting of the Heads of State and Government of the SICA.

Christmas Greetings from San Pedro Mayor Mayor Daniel Guerrero
Greetings my fellow residents and visitors of San Pedro Town, it always fills me with joy to address you every Christmas Season as we celebrate the birth of Christ whom we are all grateful for having yet another great year. As this time of year comes around, the holidays are a wonderful time to look back with gratitude and to celebrate the coming year with optimism and enthusiasm. As I reflect on this past year, I am grateful to live in a community that is always there to offer a helping hand. Our community has come together to in various circumstances, such as the Town Council’s Community Clean Up, the fires at Escalante Sub Division and Boca del Rio, the Massive Sargassum Clean Up and most recently, the BIG Clean Up organized by the BTIA.

ZAARA'S BOUTIQUE 5th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS EXTRAVAGANZA - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15TH
The Magic of Christmas never ends and its Greatest Gift is Family & Friends. Once again the time is here to Celebrate Zaara’s Boutique; we are honored to Celebrate our 5th Anniversary in business with another year, another love story and we plan to make 2019 another successful one again. Perfect day to take advantage of our Greatest Deals yet; Games and Discounts for the lovely Christmas Season. Tons of GIVEAWAYS & RAFFLES throughout the day! FOOD Sale by our talented vendors. SANTA CLAUSE will be coming to town.

Corozal Christmas Parade
Christmas Parade is happening this Sunday December 16, 2018 in Corozal. It will commence at 6pm infront of the Central Park.

American English Live Teacher Development Series 4
The Office of English Language Programs is pleased to invite teachers to the American English Live Teacher Development Series 4.The series will take place on www.facebook.com/AmericanEnglishforEducators The series consists of 6 online sessions that last 60 minutes each. Sessions cover a variety of topics and are intended for present or future teachers of English around the world. You can participate from your home, school or office using a computer or mobile device with internet connection. Those who attend at least 4 out of the 6 webinars through viewing groups will receive e-certificates. Individual participants will receive an electronic badge per session viewed provided they answer a short questionnaire. The series will run from January 9 to March 20 as per the calendar below.

Gifts to Southside Children
A plan to give 30 small Christmas gifts to children in the South Side Belize City street where Ms Grace Flowers, our Commonwealth Point of Light, lives...Got some what bigger!!! Thanks to support from members of the Diplomatic Corps in Belize (Mexico, Brazil, Guatemala, USA, and Taiwan), especially our Dean of the Dip Corps in Belize, Carlos Quesnel-Melendez, we were able to do more. With bigger comes additional challenges, so thank you to Officer Commanding Eastern Division Region One – Senior Superintendent Howell Gillett, Commissioner of Police – Mr Allen Whylie, and all the staff at Racoon Police Station for providing a location, refreshments and in supporting the Diplomatic Corps in Belize in handing out over 350 gifts. We all hope that the Children enjoyed it and that in a small way we provided some Christmas cheer.

Belize City Christmas Tree Lighting
The Belize City Council 's Christmas Tree is up and waiting for the lighting ceremony on Saturday starting around 6 pm. Immediately after the Christmas tree lighting Ceremony the Downtown Rejuvenation Project's Creole Brukdong Festival will continue with some good old fashion Krismus songs. Come and see the Sambai Dancers as they dance around a fire. There will be lots of food and drinks on sale so bring the entire family and most of all, bring your appetite!

THE ATM CAVE IS CLOSED
BARTON CREEK CAVE IS OPEN BUT RIVER CROSSING IS HIGH.. PLEASE EXERCISE CAUTION

JOB OPPORTUNITY: Ya’axché is looking for a Belizean Creative Conservation Communicator
In this paid, entry-level position, you will ensure effective, consistent communication of Ya’axché’s vision, mission and associated activities to all stakeholders. The Creative Conservation Communicator strives to maintain a professional image of the organization through consistent and high quality communication pieces. Deadline to apply is December 28th 2018.

Channel 7

President Jimmy Wishes Belize Peace
Guatemalan president Jimmy Morales is back home in Guatemala tonight - after a 24 hour stay in Belize for the SICA Presidential Summit. Morales now takes over the presidency from Prime Minister Dean Barrow - and we'll have all of that coming up. But, what was his message to Belize? Well, he spoke of peace, and God. We air the brief remarks he made to the press in Spanish, uncut: Jimmy Morales, President - Guatemala: (Translated) "A pleasure to greet you and wish you much blessings. The end of the year is nearing and we hope that this holiday is of much blessing for all of you. We now have, thank God, the Pro Tempore Presidency of Central America, of SICA, and God willing, we will be able to work on all issues together."

PM Barrow's Bi-Lateral With Pres. Morales
And Morales gave that same message of peace to the Prime Minister. And while that is all good and well, on the ground, the most important issue is the Sarstoon Protocol - and the Prime Minister discussed that:.. Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister: "He is saying that he is committed to peace with Belize. Of course the question with the Sarstoon came up. I raised the question of the Sarstoon and his response was well once we go to court - that together with everything else will be disposed of. So I have no doubt that he truly believes that the referendum if in fact Belize vote t go to the referendum will put an end to the issue..."

Will There Be An "Interim Solution"� Instead of a Sarstoon Protocol?
And what the Prime Minister calls an "interim solution," for the Sarstoon is just what Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington also hinted at yesterday. We asked him if he pressed his Guatemalan counterpart, Sandra Jovel on the Sarstoon Protocol:... Reporter: "How is the meeting going and have you leaned over to your colleague Sandra Hovel and said remember what you promised us in Istanbul?" Hon. Wilfred Elrington, Minister of Foreign Affairs: "You know I would not see her without doing that. I have raised that issue with them and they still having difficulty with compliance."

PM Hands Over SICA Presidency
And while the discussion of the Sarstoon Protocol with Guatemala is the most urgent issue for Belize - all that happened in the margins of the 52nd meeting of the SICA Heads of State and Government. Our news team was at the Biltmore all day for the ceremonial side of this event - and Daniel Ortiz reports:... Four Central American Presidents were present. They are the President of Panama, Juan Carlos Varela, the President of Honduras, Juan Orlando Hernandez, The President of El Salvador, Salvador Sanchez Cerén,; and, of course, Guatemalan President, Jimmy Morales. The Presidents of Nicaragua and Costa Rica were represented by their foreign ministers.

SICA Foreign Ministers Talk Migration
And while the Prime Minister and Presidents gathered today, yesterday it was the Central American Foreign Ministers who met in the 75th Meeting of the Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of SICA. And, the territorial dispute between Belize and Guatemala was not at the forefront of yesterday's meeting. What they were talking about was migration. As was made famous by the migrant caravan including residents of Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador, Central America continues to be an area of intense migratory pressures. Elrington touched on this in his opening of the Council of Ministers meeting:...

PM Distances Himself For Guatemala Fear-Mongering
And, messianic references aside, the Prime Minister did create some distance between his position and that of ForeignMinister Elrington yesterday. As you may have heard, Elrington said that if Belizeans vote no to the ICJ, Guatemala could invade. That's a very dire predictions and, today, without directly addressing or rebuking Elrington - the Prime Minister said he rejects "fear-mongering":... Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister "What I will tell you is this: you know that I feel very strongly about a yes vote, but there is no way anybody should resort to any kind of fearmongering. I don't think it's justified and in any case it will backfire. I think Belizeans have the kind of backbone where if you tell them you need to do this or else. They will say oh yeah, we absolutely will not do it. So you bring on or else." "Both as a matter of my conviction and for what I think are sound strategic and policy reasons, I would advise everybody else who like me wishes a yes vote to be very careful in terms of the way you go about trying to procure that yes vote."

What Will The State Do If Voters Say No?
But if they don't get that "yes" vote, how would the government respond to a "no" vote? And what would they say to the diplomatic community which has been pushing, and paying, for Belize and Guatemala to settle their dispute at the ICJ. The PM said - in the event of a "no" - government would have to react quickly:.. Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister: "Clearly we will have to do some maneuvering. We will have to be very fast on our feet if there is a no vote, in terms of making good with the diplomatic community. Since it is a fact that the diplomatic community overwhelmingly would wish for us to take this matter to the ICJ..."

GSU Pickup Ran Over Toddler, Child Critical
A 2 year old baby boy is fighting for his life after he was run over by a GSU truck last night. At around 8:00, Baby Tevin Cacho or "Tete" as he was affectionately called, was with his mom Shereema Moody and others on Iguana Street Extension. They were celebrating Moody's birthday. Moody left him in the care of a friend and went to buy at the nearby store. When she came back, she saw her baby crushed under the wheel. I found out more about this terrible accident. This security video captures the moment of impact. it happened so quickly that it took about 15 seconds before residents realized that baby Tevin was crushed under the GSU truck.

Fisherman Missing, Family Fears
On Saturday night, fisherman Greg Dillon left home to go on a fishing trip and is now missing. He was last seen by a watchman at the Turneffe Atoll area when he left on his boat called "Why-Yvette" at 6:30 on Monday morning. The last time His wife, Genay Dillon, saw him was when she dropped him off on Saturday evening. She was expecting him to be out at sea and his fishing camp for about 3 days and hoped to see him back by Wednesday. But, no one has seen or heard from him since - and tonight his family is very worried. We spoke with his wife today. Genay Dillon, Wife: "The last time I saw him was Saturday evening after 3, when I went to dropped him off by the Northern Fishermen Coop. to go to sea."

Corn Product Recall Affects Stock In Belize
Tonight, the Ministry of Health and BAHA have issued a food advisory for a Del Monte product called "Fiesta Corn Seasoned with Red and Green Peppers." No one has gotten sick - but Del Monte has recalled more than sixty thousand cases of the product quote, "due to under-processing which could lead to life-threatening illness if consumed." The news is that the local agent for Del Monte, Price Premier Products has reportedly recalled a number of boxes that fall within the recall batch.

Mercury Levels Declining In Fish
And there's another food health advisory that you need to take note of. Latest tests on mercury levels in 22 species of fish, across four rivers show declining levels of mercury. Tests were done in the Macal, Mopan, Belize and New rivers, including Big Falls. A press release from the Ministry of Health says, quote, "This is the first time the results had fallen below the recommended safe levels…"

Coleman, Alleged Child Molester, Gets Bail
63 year-old Reginald Coleman, an auto mechanic of Maxboro Village, is out on bail tonight, after he was taken to court for 2 counts of sexual assault of a 6 year-old girl. Court reports indicate that the first incident occurred sometime in October 2015. The allegation is that when the child was 4 year-old girl, Coleman fondled her buttocks. The second allegation is that in April 2017, when she turned 6, Coleman inserted his finger into her private parts.

Sol. Gen Hawke Takes Wing
For a number of years on the news, we've been showing you those big government cases where Solicitor General Nigel Hawke has been representing Belize. He's been the Government's lead attorney in lawsuits that have gone to the Supreme Court, all the way up to the Caribbean Court of Justice. But, it seems that Hawke has taken wing, and government's point man on so many cases is gone. And that's because the Barrow Administration will not renew his contract. The press asked the Prime Minister about it this afternoon, and here's what he had to say:

Leonora's Wisdom
Tonight we have the wisdom of our 105 year old neighbor, Leonora Patnett. She turned 105 years old yesterday and we went around the corner on Wagner's lane, first, to glean some of her wisdom, and, second, to see if she had any cake left! We didn't leave disappointed on either count. She told us how she spent her 105th birthday:..

SMS Scam With Scotia
There's a Scotiabank scam going around by text message, and if you get a text message like this, you should delete it immediately. The message says your Scotiacard is temporarily blocked, click her to unblock your account. It's bogus and Scotia says the bank will never ask customers to disclose their personal pin information to anyone. They advise that this this is a scam and customers should delete the message.

UNICEF Reviews Chile Meeting
From November 20th to November 25th a team of Belizeans were in Chile for a meeting commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The agenda of the meeting was to address areas of violence, education, participation and equality in relation to young people within the participating countries. Belize was represented by Minister of Labour & Local Government, Dr. Carla Barnett, Special Envoy for Women and Children, Kim Simplis Barrow, and Dr. Susan Kasedde the UNICEF Representative in Belize, as well as youth advocates.

Channel 5

Guatemala’s Jimmy Morales Wants Peace with Belize
Guatemalan President Jimmy Morales arrived in the country on Thursday evening via the P.G.I.A., in a private jet and departed today. He was here on an official visit for the [...]

PM Barrow’s Bid for Interim Solution to Sarstoon Tensions Fails
Following President Jimmy Morales’ departure from the summit, we got a chance to speak with Prime Minister Dean Barrow, who symbolically handed over the Tempore Presidency of SICA to President [...]

PM Barrow Says Stop the Fearmongering
On Thursday, Foreign Affairs Minister Wilfred Elrington suggested that if Belizeans vote “NO” in the April tenth, 2019 referendum, it could lead to an invasion by Guatemala.  It’s the second [...]

PM Barrow and President Morales Agree that I.C.J. is the Way to Go
As we said earlier, Prime Minister Dean Barrow and President Jimmy Morales held bilateral discussions ahead of the SICA summit today. Leaders of both countries spoke on the upcoming I.C.J. [...]

Belize Hands Over SICA Presidency Pro-Temp to Guatemala
Belize handed over the Presidency Pro-tempore of the Central American Integrated System, SICA, today to Guatemala, ending a six-month rotation of the presidency. The fifty-second meeting of the Heads of [...]

A Toddler is Crushed by a GSU Patrol Vehicle on Iguana Street
A two-year-old-boy was gravely injured and is hospitalized tonight at the Karl Huesner Memorial Hospital. Tevin Cacho sustained severe injuries to the head after he was crushed by a truck [...]

Greg Dillon Missing at Sea
A fisherman from the King’s Park area of Belize City remains missing and his family and friends fear that he is lost at sea. Thirty-two-year-old Greg Dillon left home on [...]

$30,000 Reward for Information on Missing Woman, Anisha Young
The search continues for twenty-three-year-old Anisha Young. It’s been five days since she has gone missing and search parties have been combing the Philip Goldson and the George Price Highways, [...]

Nigel Hawke is SolGen No More
Nigel Hawke will be the country’s Solicitor General only until December, thirty-first, 2018. Hawke’s contract expires then and it will not be renewed.  Word is that he will be going [...]

Public Health Advisories on Mercury in Fish and a Product Recall
Two public health advisories have been issued by the Ministry of Health in respect to the detection of mercury in fish and the recall of a Del Monte canned product. [...]

BHPL is Certified in Hemo-Dialysis Treatment
A team of nurses and medical practitioners at Belize Healthcare Partners Limited has been certified in the field of hemo-dialysis treatment.  The accreditation follows an offer that was extended by [...]

A Big Day for Dialysis Treatment in Belize
Today marks the culmination of that process.  For Gomez, it is a momentous occasion because the unit that they have put together at BHPL is being internationally recognized.   Ingrid [...]

No Consensus at COP 24; SIDS Dissatisfied with Text
At this hour, global talks are still under way in Katowice, Poland, to develop a rulebook to enforce the 2015 Paris agreement to address climate change. After two weeks of [...]

Double Counting of Emissions Reductions is 1 of SIDS concerns
Countries have not been able to come to a consensus on certain points. One of the areas that the small island developing states are concerned about is the issue of [...]

Corozal Mayor Says Previous Mayor Spent More What the Council Earned
Corozal Town was one of the municipalities that the People’s United Party won in the municipal elections earlier this year. The current mayor is Rigoberto ‘Rigo’ Vellos who defeated the [...]

Jenelli Fraser on Miss Universe Prelims
Jenelli Fraser, Miss Universe Belize, is undertaking final preparations for Sunday’s competition. She has already appeared in the swimsuit, introduction and evening gown segments representing the Jewel the best she [...]

Football 4 Life – an International Friendly between Belize and Guatemala
A first-of-its-kind Football for Life peace match took place today at the Marion Jones Sporting Complex in Belize City. The under-eighteen national teams from Belize and Guatemala converged on the [...]

Take Advantage of the Xmas Sale at Quality Poultry Countrywide
Quality Poultry Products is feeling the spirit of the Christmas season and giving back to its customers. For the first time in over forty years of service, the company is [...]

LOVE FM

Greg Dillon, a fisherman, went fishing in the vicinity of the Turneffe area on Saturday and was expected back on Monday; however, when he did not return the family became concerned. Love news spoke with Genay Dillon, his wife, who said this is the first time that her husband has gone to sea and not …

400 Belize City youths get an early Xmas Treat
Embassies of Mexico, Taiwan, USA, Guatemala along with the British High Commission teamed up for a Christmas event with the Belize Police Department to share seasonal joy with about 400 Belize City youths. Senior Superintendent Howell Gillett, told the media yesterday that each child would go home with a gift. Howell Gillet Senior Superintendent Police: …

GSU mobile knocks down toddler
A two year old boy, Tevin Cacho was seriously injured last night. A ruckus was created on the south side of Belize City when a vehicle knocked down the toddler. The man who was driving the vehicle was an on-duty Gang Supression Unit member. Johnelle Mckenzie Reports. Johnelle Mckenzie: “First it was children being caught …

Nigel Hawke’s Solgen no more
The Solicitor General, or we should say the former Solicitor General, Nigel Hawke will not be serving another term in that position as his contract has not been renewed. In an interview with Prime Minister Dean Barrow today, he said the recommendation was made by Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte. Honorable Dean Barrow Prime Minister of …

Belize and Guatemala Meet on the Football Pitch
The dialogue between the twos sovereign nation continues on all levels. This evening, youths, Belizean and Guatemalan met, not in a conference room, but a football pitch. Athletes from the Under 17 teams of both countries played a friendly match at the Marion Jones Sporting Complex while the leaders continued to dialogue. Love News spoke …

Farm worker still missing
Another man is also in the headlines under similar circumstances. Police still have no clues as to the whereabouts of a man originally from Mexico but spent the last thirty years living on a farm in Belize. 71-year-old Teresa Obrien told the Orange Walk police that her farm caretaker, Arturo Gomez has been missing since …

BNCF GRANT AWARD CEREMONY
Belize Nature Conservation Foundation held a grant award ceremony. Some of the awardees spoke to Love News about how they will utilize their funds in their respective agencies. Celia Mahung: “The Belize Nature Conservation Foundation held a grant award ceremony at the Guanacaste National Park. Approximately $114,000 Bz was granted to three conservation NGO’s namely …

PG SENIOR CITIZENS XMAS
Across the country, hope and love are themes which continue to counter the crime and apathy that has gripped different social groups. An organization called HOPE has decided to share love with senior citizens in Punta Gorda. Toledo Correspondent Paul Mahung reports. Paul Mahung: “A special Christmas celebration was held yesterday afternoon for Senior Citizens …

Guatemala is new President Pro Tempore of SICA
The 52nd Meeting of the Heads of State and Government of the Central American Integration System (SICA) was hosted by Belize. In a brief opening ceremony, Prime Minister Dean Barrow spoke of the achievements and challenges of the SICA while Belize held the sixth month position of President Pro Tempore. Prime Minister Barrow says that …

Rough Sea Conditions may have been the cause of drowning
Earlier in the week, 41-year-old Rudy Morales, a bus company owner and several relatives went on a fishing trip that ended tragically when the boat capsized at the mouth of the New River near the entrance to the Corozal Bay. The police said that there was a small craft warning and the weather may have …

Guatemalan President Jimmy Morales says “Yes” to the ICJ is the right path to take
Heads of states of the eight member countries of the Central American Integration System (SICA) were in Belize on Friday for the 52nd Meeting of the Heads of State and Government. But prior to the meeting, Prime Minister Dean Barrow and Guatemalan President Jimmy Morales spoke during a bilateral session …

Home invasion in Guinea Grass Village
Early Thursday morning there was an invasion of a woman’s home invasion in Guinea Grass Village. Assistant Commissioner of Police Joseph Myvett, the head of the NCIB says they are investigating as best they can. ACP Joseph Myvett: “There was an aggravated burglary also this morning sometime after 2 AM in Guinea Grass Village …

Time to get your Christmas Wine
It’s officially 11 days to Christmas and people tend to flock to department stores in Belize, across the border and also online to do their shopping for that perfect gift. But many Belizeans living abroad and at home prefer traditional items like a black cake, local music and of course, Christmas wine …

Belize Healthcare’s Dialysis Unit internationally certified
Dialysis treatment is a life saviour for those who are suffering from kidney failure. Belize Healthcare Partners Limited is one of the few medical institution which provides this treatment and now the dialysis unit at Belize Healthcare Partners Limited is the only unit which is now internationally certified …

Amandala

Aneshia Young, 23, now missing for 5 days
It has been four long and worrisome days for the family of Aneshia “Anny” Young, 23, since she went missing on the morning of Sunday, December 9. Since Tuesday, December 11, her family has been forming search parties with other persons willing to help to try and locate her. Today, Amandala spoke to her cousin, Sheree Salgado, who told us that they had received a reliable tip that they might find Young somewhere between Bermudian Landing and Lemonal, in the Belize District. When we went to that area, we saw people coming out of the bushes and joining up with different groups who were standing on the road.

Dr. Jane Usher CBE, HRCU’s iconic leader, dies at 101
In today’s internet world, news almost travels as fast as the speed of light, and that is how news of the passing of Dr. Jane Usher was telegraphed into the consciousness of Belizeans everywhere this morning, even in the House of Representatives, where, just 5 hours after her death, members observed a moment of silence for the Holy Redeemer Credit Union’s (HRCU) iconic “Miss Jane,” whose work in the credit union movement touched the lives of tens of thousands of Belizeans. Mrs. Usher, an older sister of the Father of the Nation/late national hero, Rt. Hon. George Price, died peacefully at her Philip Goldson Highway home, surrounded by family members. She was 101 years old.

Belize’s fear-mongering Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington
Each time Foreign Minister Wilfred “Sedi” Elrington gets an opportunity to educate the Belizean people on the question of the Guatemala claim and the matter of taking it to the International Court of Justice, he squanders the opportunity with his never-ending attempt to spread fear in the minds of Belizeans. Today was no exception when Elrington was interviewed at the Philip Goldson International Airport, where he had gone, presumably to meet the Guatemala President Jimmy Morales, who arrived in the country to attend the SICA Heads of Government Summit.

BEL wants to increase electricity rates
About 6 months ago, Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) had attempted to increase electricity rates by 7.1%, from $0.3699 per kilowatt hour to $0.3954. Instead, in May, the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) only approved an increase of 4.4%, which set the mean electricity rate at $0.3862 per kilowatt hour. This had been approved from the period of July 1, 2018 to June 30, 2020. On Tuesday, December 11, however, BEL issued a press release in which they announced that the day before, December 10, they notified the PUC that they are proposing to increase the electricity rates again, this time to $0.4150 per kilowatt hour.

Guatemalan president Jimmy Morales arrives in Belize for SICA summit
Belize is hosting the SICA Heads of Government Summit and this afternoon the Guatemalan president, Jimmy Morales, who will be attending that summit, touched down at the Philip Goldson International Airport in a private jet. SICA is the Central American Integration System, of which Belize became a full member in 2000, and since becoming a member, Belize has hosted several SICA Heads of Government Summits. The SICA Pro-tempore Presidency rotates once every six months among its members, which are Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama.

St. John’s Church Soup Kitchen: A decade of feeding the city’s needy
This morning, a small group of people gathered outside in the yard of St John’s Church Soup Kitchen, on Albert Street West, a short distance from the historic cathedral. On a Tuesday morning, it’s not strange to see people in the church’s soup kitchen yard. Every Tuesday, hundreds of people are certain they will be fed. Inside the small concrete structure, which serves as the kitchen, about a dozen volunteer workers are busy, putting the finishing touches to the day’s meal, which is not the usual serving of soup, but hearty portions of the Church’s annual Christmas dinner that is now in its tenth year. Around 11:00 a.m., the Anglican Bishop, Philip Wright, and Reverend Lloyd Taylor, arrive and prayers are said, as the day’s work of feeding begins in earnest.

Winning times at inaugural Colin E. Thurton Invitational Track Meet, December 1
As we had promised in last Friday’s issue, here are the results from the inaugural Colin E. Thurton Invitational Track Meet, held on Saturday, December 1, at the Marion Jones Sports Complex. The information was provided to us by organizer Mark Usher of PROTO, who has teamed up with Belizean sprinting legend, Colin E. Thurton to conduct what is planned to become a quarterly national event: 200m Boys (Juniors 14-18 yrs): 1st Place – Francis Dujon, 28.63 sec; 2nd Jalen O’Brian 31.41 sec; 3rd Dean Belisle 32.31 sec.

WW Rustic Korner 1st Race results – Sunday, December 9
Here are the results from the Weekend Warriors’ (WW) 1st ever Rustic Korner Race held yesterday, travelling from Leslie’s Imports through the Boom Road and onto the Philip Goldson (Northern) Highway heading east, to turn around at the approach to Haulover Bridge, then on to the finish at the Airport Plaza, about 200 yards from Sky Supermarket in Ladyville. “A” & “B” class riders did the same route, but the “B” left at 9:00 a.m., and the “A” left at 9:30 a.m. Twenty-two (22) of 23 starters finished the “A” race, while all 8 “B” starters completed the journey.

Stann Creek FA 1st Division Amateur reg. season ends; semifinals this weekend
The regular season ended this weekend for the Stann Creek Football Association (SCFA) 1st Division Amateur September Season with Week 11 games on Friday, December 7, at the Carl Ramos Stadium; and the Week 12 best-of-2 games semifinal playoffs are scheduled for this coming weekend. In the opener on Friday, Pomona Warriors over-powered Pomona Strikers, 6-3, with goals from Harrison Roches, Sr. (11’ & 80’), Orlando Acosta (27’), Yibemeh Lewis (68’ & 84’) and Gilbert Swazo (88’); while the strikers got a goal each from Jason Palacio (6’), Ashton Smith (60’) and Tyler Peters (89’).

ATLIB National Volleyball Tournament 2018
The Association of Tertiary Level Institutions of Belize (ATLIB) held its National Basketball Tournament last Saturday, December 8, at the Russel “Chiste” Garcia Auditorium and the Stann Creek Ecumenical College Auditorium in Dangriga. We would like to thank all athletes, coaches, sports coordinators, staff, administration, medical personnel, referees (BABO), police, media and fans who came out to watch the games. Most certainly, they witnessed athletic performances of the highest quality in a spirit of sportsmanship and fair play.

Editorial: Too much grief plus $108 million
A 2018 World Health Organization fact sheet says that 1.35 million people die in road traffic accidents (RTAs) each year, and that the cost of RTAs for most countries is about 3% of their gross domestic product (GDP). (Some might dispute the WHO’s estimation of the costs of RTAs. For sure, these include immediate loss of life; loss of production over span of life; private insurance costs; vehicle loss, damages; hospital costs; public insurance costs; disabilities….) The website, worldlifeexpectancy.com, said that 77 Belizeans died in RTAs in 2017. The website did not mention the number of non-fatal injuries caused by RTAs last year. It is doubtful that the final tally of tragedies on the roads will be any better than it was last year.

Muffles College Memoirs Part 2
Dear Editor, Thank you very much for publishing my “Muffles College Memoirs” in the leading newspaper of Belize. It drew the attention of many colleagues and I hope it helps to gain some readers and sell some papers. Anyway, at “Chendo” Urbina’s funeral I was introduced to Sister Caritas Lawrence by Mrs. Johnson, Muffles High School’s current principal, and Sister Leona Panton was with her. I had not mentioned that Sister Panton was the principal at Muffles in 1971, the year we graduated. That was after Sister Lois was transferred — don’t know where, haven’t heard from or about her since then.

Romel Cuello’s thoughts on travel documents for Belizeans
Dear Editor, A band of persons from Orange Walk were today detained for going across the Rio Hondo to the picturesque village of Botes in Mexico, and returning without reporting to the Immigration office. Present were Rene Cuello, Wilfrido Novelo, Matthew Williams, Giovanni Antonio De La Fuente, all outstanding citizens. Dillon Jones, a slightly incapacitated person representing Universal Radio, was roughed up by a police officer. After a couple hours, they were released without charges. Rene Cuello states that he has had enough of seeing persons denied the pass at the border because they do not have a “travel document”, even though they can identify themselves as Belizean citizens.

Musings of the Curious Non-Conformist
’ve been missing in action for a couple of weeks with school, work and some travel to the land of our comrade, Fidel Castro, for a bit; and for my delay in delivering my thoughts I must apologize. Who knows, maybe the hiatus was good for both of us, and well it might have kept me out of some ‘heat of the moment’ outbursts. My time in Cuba was eye-opening, to say the least, and I hope to share some musings on that visit, but I have not had time to sit with myself and sift through those revelations as yet. Nor am I in any mood to tackle any news, not now — that in itself will require mental preparation. What I do want to talk about is music. It’s an art that the universal Creator blessed us with. We have a natural affinity for it, we honor it and we ourselves create it.

Hector Silva is stoning the wrong mango tree
n Monday night, on Darrel and Troy’s show on Love FM, former government minister, historian, Brother Hector Silva, gave a full explanation of the 1859 treaty, and why it is as watertight as a well-made pataki. Mr. Silva explained why Guatemala has no claim over us because of Article Seven of the 1859 treaty. Mr. Silva is absolutely in step with the YES vote when it comes to the 1859 treaty. The funny thing is that Mr. Silva aims his arrow at the YES proponents, people who are absolute believers, when the philistines in the mix are the NO proponents of the Belize Peace movement, especially Mr. Bradley and Mr. Rogers.

The rooster came home to roost, said Mayor Bernard Wagner
“Nowhere in the Caribbean or in the world, you would have municipalities sanctioning nightclubs, bars, etc. smack in the middle of a recreational center. So that in itself is a situation that is untenable,” Belize City mayor, Bernard Wagner, told the media this morning at a press briefing at City Hall. The bar in the park is a problem that has returned to the forefront of public discussion in the wake of a weekend shooting incident which claimed the life of a patron and which caused a panic at the BTL Park when bar patrons had to fight their way through the single entrance, a violation of the Fire Department’s safety rules, during the mayhem that ensued when the shooting occurred inside.

With proposed amendment to ROPA, Hon. Kareem Musa waits for regular House sitting
One Opposition, People’s United Party member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Kareem Musa, area representative for the Caribbean Shores constituency, has embarked on a solitary mission to enable Belizeans living in the diaspora to vote in next April’s national referendum which will determine if Belize should submit Guatemala’s territorial claim for adjudication at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Hon. Musa has decided to utilize a little known parliamentary procedure known as a Private Member’s Bill to seek an amendment to the Representation of the People Act, (ROPA) Chapter 9 of the Substantive Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011.

AG Peyrefitte “fearful” of Guatemala’s response if diaspora Belizeans allowed to vote in ICJ referendum
The Government of Belize appears to lack the necessary political will to embrace its citizens living in the diaspora, because it has done nothing to involve them in the upcoming International Court of Justice referendum—the most important existential question facing post-independence Belize. It is this same government led by Prime Minister Dean Barrow which passed an amendment to the Representation of the People’s Act, removing the high threshold for a referendum result to be valid and making the threshold a simple majority of the votes cast so that it becomes parallel to Guatemala’s referendum process.

NTUCB gets new president
Over this past weekend, Saturday, December 8, and Sunday, December 9, the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) held their 52nd annual general meeting at the ITVET in Corozal Town, at which they elected a new president. Marvin Mora, from the Belize Energy Workers Union (BEWU), who had been president in 2015-2017, succeeds Floyd Neal as president. Clifford Martinez, from the Public Service Union (PSU), replaced Jacqueline Willoughby as the first vice president, while Lorelei Westby of the Belize Water Services Workers Union remains as second vice president.

The Reporter

A LEGACY IS GONE – A LEGACY LIVES ON
Whether they chose to mourn her passing or to celebrate her life, Belizeans at home and abroad acknowledged this week that the country lost a Belizean icon, with the passing of Dr. Jane Usher. Usher passed away on Tuesday, December 12 around 5 a.m. at the age of 101. Her grandson, Henry Usher, explained that she had suffered a fall last year and her health deteriorated steadily after that. Usher said that she died in “peaceful prayer” surrounded by her loved ones.

FORGIVE ME FATHER FOR YOU HAVE SINNED
By: Major Lloyd Jones (Ret’d). In September Pope Francis summoned the Presidents of the Church’s Conferences of Bishops from around the world, to address the one thing that could diminish the Church: child sexual abuse. The Pope has been facing mounting pressures over revelations of the extent of the “child abuse scandal” and what appears to be institutional abetment to conceal such abuses.

EDITORIAL – December 14th. 2018
BY: Mr. Harry Lawrence. The Police Department announced last week that it had arrested and detained a group of senior public officers for what appeared to be contraband goods. The announcement said the men would not be tried in open court, but the matter would be dealt with privately at a hearing for Public Officers. Does this mean that public officers have hidden rights under the law which ordinary folks don’t have?

BELIZEANS DETAINED FOR ILLEGAL ENTRY INTO BELIZE
The eight, who included Orange Walk businessman Rene Cuello and Northern Territorial Volunteers (NTV) member Giovanni de la Fuente, were detained in Santa Cruz Village, Orange Walk on Saturday afternoon upon their return from San Francisco Botes, a Mexican community accessible via the Rio Hondo.

MILO PAZ, REPORTED MISSING 2 MONTHS AFTER HE REPORTEDLY DIED
Police say that Ermijines Paz made the “Missing Person’s Report” last week Friday at the San Pedro Police Station, stating that she had dropped off her husband at the San Pedro Municipal Airstrip on October third, with the understanding that he was going to do “some business” at Flores, Peten, Guatemala.

Breaking Belize News

Belizean killed in Melchor,Guatemala
Information to BBN is that aBelizean national has been killed in Melchor, Guatemala. He has been […]

Financial audit of Corozal Town Council reveals rampant corruption of public assets under previous administration
The newly elected Corozal Town Council has just completed an internal audit. The audit, explosive in […]

NEMO hosts awards ceremony and banquet
On Wednesday, December 12, 2018, the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) hosted its 2018 Emergency Awards and […]

Police investigating home invasion incident in Guinea Grass
Police are investigating a home invasion that occurred yesterday morning in Guinea Grass Village, Orange Walk […]

Couple charged for drug trafficking in Corozal
A firefighter attached to the Corozal free zone and a woman have been charged for drug […]

GSU officer served with Notice of Intended Prosecution for knocking down 2-year-old baby
An officer attached to the Gang Suppression Unit (GSU) has been served with a Notice of […]

Embassies in Belize contribute to Children’s Christmas Cheer
The Embassies in Belize from Mexico, USA, Taiwan, Brazil and Guatemala including the British High […]

Social Security Board announces new changes for social security cards
The Belize Social Security Board (SSB) is making significant changes to the social security card processes […]

Joint Enforcement Protocol For Chiquibul and Vaca Forests signed
Yesterday, the Ministry of National Security (MNS) in conjunction with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry, […]

Taiwan Embassy donates new vehicle to Belmopan City Council
Yesterday, the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in Belize announced via a press […]

Child knocked down by police vehicle in Belize City
A child was involved in a traffic accident with a police vehicle last night in […]

One man detained for murder of Asher Saunders
On Friday night Asher Saunders was shot dead at the Pier OneBar and Grill in […]

Police may charge mother for neglect in case of 11-month baby that drowned
On Monday a child drowned inside a bucket in Belama, Belize City. Today Assistant Superintendent of […]

Blogs

Most Beautiful Day of the Year on Ambergris Caye
Yesterday was glorious. Sandwiched between two cold fronts (see yesterday’s post) – the sun is beaming, the cooler breeze is blowing and the humidity is low. The beach was looking fantastic, town was sparkling and I’m sure the birds and butterflies were singing together. The sea floor is starting to clear up…but much of the seagrass has died with this year’s sargasso influx. Nice to see the little fish back and the water clear… Lunch time. And MY FAVORITE SPECIAL at Briana’s Deli. I told you it was a great day didn’t I? The magical combo of fried rice, potato salad and meatballs.

International Sources

Leave nothing but memories behind
As a visitor to Belize, you may be surprised to learn that roughly 26% of our land and sea is preserved within a total of 95 reserves, which vary in purpose and level of protection. Our commitment to protecting these environmentally sensitive areas that are home to unique and even endangered flora and fauna above and below our Caribbean Sea runs deep, and we are proud to share the beauty of Belize with the thousands of visitors who grace our country each year. Many of our protected areas are popular tourist destinations that can experience a high volume of ‘visitor love’ when explored, and even locations outside of these protected areas can see too much of a good thing, causing stress on our sensitive environments. As travelers who want to be mindful of ways to minimize our tourism footprint, less impact can go a long way in preserving the long-range sustainability of these areas and protect them for generations to come.

A Very Early Look At The 2019 Atlantic, Caribbean & Gulf Of Mexico Hurricane Season
I know it’s early, but I wanted to go over what I’m already looking at in terms of signals for the 2019 Atlantic Hurricane Season. Bottom line is that the forecast is a very difficult one as it hinges heavily on whether we will still be in El Nino conditions or whether we will be headed towards neutral ENSO conditions. Also, as usual, how warm the ocean temperatures are and how strong the overall shear is will dictate activity levels in 2019. In terms of ENSO conditions, we are currently in weak El Nino conditions and probably will remain in at least weak El Nino conditions throughout this winter into the Spring of 2019. Turning towards Summer of 2019, the ENSO model guidance are split between calling for a weak El Nino and calling for neutral ENSO conditions. So, if we do see El Nino conditions persist through much of the 2019 Hurricane season, it could mean a inactive season in terms of numbers. On the other hand, should we see neutral ENSO conditions during the 2019 Hurricane season, it could mean a very active season in terms of the number of storms that form.

Your Favorite New Caribbean Island Isn’t an Island at All
There aren’t many secrets left in the Caribbean islands, but there might be just one: Belize. Maybe it’s because this Central American nation isn’t an island at all. Or perhaps it’s because it’s only partially in the Caribbean, wedged underneath the scorpion’s tail of Mexico and bordering Guatemala to the east. Most likely, though, it’s because Belize isn’t beckoning you the way the glossy isles of St. Barts and St. Lucia have for so long. This laid-back nation of sandy roads, beach-shack restaurants, and seriously impressive ruins is better at playing hard to get than it is at luring finicky tourists with frozen daiquiris and couples’ massages. But, like it or not (spoiler alert: we like it), Belize is about to see a spate of new hotels—and luxurious though they may be, they’re promising to preserve the local experience without destroying its unapologetically authentic essence.

Plastic Found in Great Blue Hole in Belize
"The bottom line with plastic pollution is that there's plastic everywhere," said Gaelin Rosenwaks, founder of Global Ocean Exploration, during an EcoWatch Live interview on Facebook Thursday. The interactive live interview with Rosenwaks—who just got back from an expedition diving deep into the Great Blue Hole in Belize—inspired EcoWatchers to educate themselves on plastic pollution and commit to solutions. "It doesn't matter where you go ... whether you are in the open sea ... or at the bottom of the blue hole, you're going to see plastic," said Rosenwaks who brings cutting-edge research from global expeditions to the public through film and photography.

Belize PM calls for unity among Central American countries
Central American leaders began a summit here Friday against the backdrop of increased migration to North America, the impact of climate change as well as crime and security on the region. Prime Minister Dean Barrow told the leaders from the seven countries that form the Central American Integrated System (SICA) conference that it was necessary for there to be greater collaboration or face the prospect of “hanging separately”. He said migration for example had been a major talking point in the region as citizens from the Central America move towards in a bid to secure a better way of life and escape the criminal gang violence. “Many of our citizens have been seeking under the most onerous conditions to go north in search of security or economic opportunities or both.

Cayo Espanto San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize
"This palm-studded, all-inclusive private island resort just off the coast of Belize is punctuated with just seven villas. It’s the perfect getaway for beach-seeking travelers who place a premium on absolute seclusion and attentive service – and have the wherewithal to afford it." The four-acre island resort is a seven-minute boat ride from San Pedro (also known as Ambergris Caye), which is Belize’s second-largest island and lies 35 miles from the capital, Belize City. Most guests fly into Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) and then take a 15-minute puddle-jumper flight to San Pedro (SPR) before boarding the resort’s launch. Cayo Espanto is 30 minutes by boat from Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley.

Central American Macroeconomic Prospects 2014-2018 with Forecast to 2022
This research delves into the macroeconomic outlook for Central American countries, with respect to political environment, GDP growth, and demographics. Countries analyzed as part this research include Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama. The study period for this research is 2014 to 2022, with estimates for 2018, and forecasts for 2019 to 2022. Political unrest and instability are challenges across most of these economies, with, for example, the President of Honduras sworn in January 2018 for a second term amid protests. Similarly, in Nicaragua, there were violent clashes in 2018 following protests against government reforms. Costa Rica has been struggling in the recent years to get fiscal reforms passed, with the newly elected President facing the important task of securing approvals for a fiscal reform package.

Videos

December 14, 2018

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Specials and Events

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

The San Pedro Sun

Increase in electricity cost proposed for 2019
Belizeans could start the new year with an increase in their electricity bill. On Monday, December 10th Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) wrote to the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to notify them that due to significant increases in the cost of power as of May 2018, the company is proposing an increase to the Mean Electricity Rate to $0.4150 per kilowatt per hour (KWH) for the remainder of the Annual Tariff Period from January 1st to June 30, 2019. According to BEL, higher prices from Mexico and below average production by local hydro plants increased the cost of power purchased from suppliers. They were able to use its strong financial position to temporarily absorb this $18.9 million increase in the cost of power. As per PUC regulations, BEL is required to apply to recover this increase through an adjustment to the tariff.

Belize’s credit union movement pioneer, Jane Usher, passes away at 101
On Wednesday, December 12th, Belize lost a hard-working daughter, when Dr. Jane Ellen Usher passed away at the age of 101. Affectionately known nationwide as Miss Jane, she was the longest running Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in Belize and the region. Usher, who was the older sister of Belize’s first Prime Minister, Right Honourable George Price, was the founder of the credit union movement in the country, and before December 2017, she worked daily at the Holy Redeemer Credit Union (HRCU) in Belize City as its CEO. Her dedication to serving the community and the development of the credit union era in Belize saw her earning numerous awards and accolades, such as the Golden Eagle Award from the Belize Credit Union League.

Mercury Detected in Fish
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Department of Environment and the Belize Electric Company Limited (BECOL), has completed another assessment of mercury levels in fishes from the New River, Macal River, Mopan River and Belize River, including Big Falls. This advisory is being issued to guide the public on the amount of fish that can be safely eaten to avoid ill effects due to mercury exposure.

Team Extreme leads San Pedro Co-Ed Softball Tournament 2019
Taking the lead in the current San Pedro Co-Ed Softball Tournament is Team Extreme with a total of seven wins against one loss. Extreme topped Quality Reef, who is second in the competition, during the games on Sunday, December 9th, at the Honourable Sylvestre Sporting Complex. Games continue this weekend on Sunday, December 16th, starting at 9AM with SPHS versus Quality Reef. The second game will be between RCGO and Rusties, and the third match will see Extreme taking on Beer League. Softball fans and the public, in general, are invited to come out and enjoy another softball Sunday.

Island taxi driver Noel Wiltshire remanded to prison after attacking ex-wife
Island taxi driver 59-year-old Noel Wiltshire has been remanded to the Belize Central Prison after being charged for Attempted Murder, Use of Deadly Means of Harm and Grievous Harm against his ex-common-law wife. Wiltshire appeared on Friday, December 7th before Supreme Court Justice Marilyn Williams in Belize City, where his bail application was denied and remanded until an unknown court date in 2019. Although no official police report has been made available, Wiltshire is accused of trying to run over his ex-common-law wife with his taxi van in late September. He denied the allegations, while his attorney, Leslie Hamilton, appealed for bail on the basis that the incident was an accident.

Ambergris Today

ABC Pre-School Christmas Show
Christmas Season is here and schools around the island are busy with Christmas shows and Christmas parties, spreading cheer with students, teachers and parents. Family and friends gathered at ABC Pre-school on Thursday, December 13, 2018 to see a specatucal show put on by three and four year olds. The children danced and sang along with teachers as they performed energetic and fun dances. Here are a few pictures of the event for your enjoyment! - Merry Christmas from ABC Pre-School!

Island Academy Christmas Pageant Presents The Nutcracker
The Nutcracker came to life at The Island Academy’s annual Christmas Pageant that took place on Wednesday, December 13, 2018, at the school compound. The main character Marie was whisked away to a magical kingdom populated by dolls. An evil Mouse King was defeated; magical characters came to life; dances were performed and sung as the student body put on a spectacular show once again. Congratulations to Teacher Catie Miller and her crew for a job well done. Here’s a look at The Island Academy's Christmas Pageant 2018:

Misc Belizean Sources

Corozal - WELCOME TO TORTUGA GRILL & PADDLE LOUNGE
Opening to the general public Thursday, December 13th from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Our location is Rainbow Beach & Park. We can't wait to serve you. We extend our warmest season greetings to you and your family.

Recall of Del Monte FIESTA CORN Seasoned with Red & Green Peppers
The Ministry of Health in partnership with the Belize Agriculture Health Authority (BAHA) and the Belize Bureau of Standards has been advised on a recall announcement from Del Monte Food Inc. of Fiesta Corn Seasoned with Red and Green Peppers. Although Del Monte Foods Inc. has not been notified of any reports of illness associated with the product, 62, 242 cases of this product carrying a specific code and date are being recalled due to under-processing which could lead to life-threatening illness if consumed.

Mercury Detected in Fish
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Department of Environment and the Belize Electric Company Limited (BECOL), has completed another assessment of mercury levels in fishes from the New River, Macal River, Mopan River and Belize River, including Big Falls. This advisory is being issued to guide the public on the amount of fish that can be safely eaten to avoid ill effects due to mercury exposure. In this fish mercury testing, a total of 22 fish species were captured with a total of 705 fishes coming from 13 locations. Analysis of fish samples for this mercury testing indicated that all fish had levels of mercury under the recommended safety level. The highest level of mercury was 0.38 mg/kg in the basa and the lowest 0.06 in the green swordtail. This is the first time the results had fallen below the recommended safe levels of 0.5mg/kg. The Ministry, however, cautions on the recommended fish to be eaten since the fish are not totally free of mercury.

CAB'S 3RD ANNUAL BOARD PRESENTATION
On Friday, December 7, 2018, the Children's Advisory Body (CAB) Board held its Annual presentation. This year the host of the presentation was the municipality of San Pedro Town, which hosted all the CABs from each municipality where they had to decorate a booth and present their year's accomplishments. Before the booths were available for display, there was a ceremony where Mayor Daniel Guerrero offered the welcome address and each CAB gave a presentation. Other speakers at the event was Hon. Carla Barnett, Senator and Minister of State for the Government of Belize, as well as the UNICEF Coordinator in Belize, Dr. Susan Kasedde. At the end of the ceremony, CAB Project Coordinator, Kay-de Vaughn, have the closing remarks and surprised each CAB with three (3) tablets which then the officials handed over. After the ceremony was over, schools from San Pedro Town were invited to witness the different CAB booths. All CAB booths were very informative and interactive offering games and you win a prize if you guessed correctly. Thank you all CABs for participating and we hope you enjoyed your time in San Pedro, it was our honor hosting you all. See you soon!

The Sustainable Energy Sector! 2018 Outlook and Opportunities
In the ongoing global quest to mitigating climate change and seeking energy independence, Belize remains an active supporter joining the chorus of fostering renewable energy developments. With a history of development in Green Economy, Belize has been powered by primarily renewable sources, namely Hydro and Biomass Energy with growing opportunities in Solar Energy. An example of the benefits under renewable energy can be seen in the utility rates in Belize, which have a mean electricity rate of approximately USD $0.17 per kilowatt-hour (kWh).

Pro Solar Engineering Limited: Pioneers in the Renewable Energy sector in Belize
Founded in 2011 by electrical engineer, Marco Valle, Pro Solar Engineering Ltd. has set out to provide Belize with reliable renewable energy. Since then, the company has grown and transitioned into a modern and innovative clean energy company providing tailored systems and services to our clients. Pro Solar Engineering specializes in solar, wind and hydro energy systems, and have recently expanded to offer modernized and highly efficient renewable energy equipment that uses advanced digital solutions and monitoring features through a world renowned brand, Tesla, Inc. All projects to date have been conducted in Belize, a thriving developing nation nestled in the Central American and Caribbean region bordered to the North by Mexico, West and South by Guatemala and East by the pristine Caribbean Sea. Belize has long sunlight days, is filled with many networks of rivers with good wind power potential along the coast and in elevated areas.

Christmas Edition of ArT In ThE ParK
This Saturday, December 15th. Christmas Edition of ArT In ThE ParK. You don't want to miss it. Come out and view art work by Depiction Paintings making their debut in Corozal.

Grants Notice: Belize Travel and Logistics Program for Training Support
The Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) announces an open competition for assistance awards in Belize. Organizations may submit grant proposals for a program to facilitate the implementation of law enforcement and rule of law assistance programs. The activities under this award shall take place within Belize, the United States, and other countries as training opportunities arise. The applicant shall be responsible for working with the INL office in Belize in planning and scheduling all events, including but not limited to travel and logistic services for trainings, meetings, conferences, site visits and workshops in support of INL programs carried out by the INL Office in Belize.

Celebrating Young Belizean Entrepreneurs!
For the month of December, we are excited to feature Kevin Moralez as our Young Belizean Entrepreneur! Kevin Moralez is self-thought local artist and owner of Moralez Art in Bella Vista Village in the Toledo District. He has had a profound passion for drawing since the young age of 8 years. Being an entrepreneur since his early high school days, Kevin would draw class banners and commission portrait drawings for classmates. With much dedication and practice he became really good in crafting stunning pieces of art. After graduating from the Independence High School they offered him a job to paint all the signs and murals of the school building. This propelled his early career, as many visitors where impressed by the quality and detail of his art work. Having gained publicity, he focused on building his professional career and met other prominent Belizean artists who aided him in building his own brand name and starting up his art business.

Renewing Accommodation Licensing Advisory
Please take note of the 11 requirements to renew Accommodation License with BTB. Please be advised that all Accommodation Licenses expire on December 31, 2018. Applications for renewal are now being accepted at BTB's Belize City and San Pedro Offices.

Signing of the Chiquibul and Vaca Forests Joint Enforcement Protocol
Today, December 13th, the Ministry of National Security (MNS), Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment, Sustainable Development and Immigration (MAFFESDI), and Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD) signed the Chiquibul and Vaca Forests Joint Enforcement Protocol. Signing the protocol were the Minister of National Security, Hon. John Saldivar; Chief Forest Officer, Mr. Wilber Sabido (MAFFESDI); and Executive Director of FCD, Mr. Raphael Manzanero. The protocol sets out a formalized Chiquibul and Vaca Forests Joint Enforcement Program to address illegal activities occurring within the forest which put the integrity of the forest ecosystem at risk and threaten the national security and territorial integrity of Belize.

San Pedro Town Council Holiday Hours
We take this opportunity to wish everyone a Happy and Blessed Holiday Season!

Former Corozal Town Council Burned Records
Documents unearthed recently at the Corozal Town Council reveal that the previous Council was carrying out the burning of financial records only weeks before the March municipal elections. The present Town Council under Mayor Rigo Vellos has said that the lack of records and information was the primary reason for the delay in presenting a financial report.

Paradise Theater playing this weekend
Night School, Goosebumps 2, Small Foot, A Simple Favor.

19 people. One hour. 150 trash bags.
Super happy to see the clean-up campaign alive and well! Thanks for keeping up the great work! For the Love of San Pedro, let's all do our part in keeping La Isla Bonita...bonita! A HUGE thank you to Victoria House, Aces, San Pedro Town Council, Peter Mc Peake, Crissy Guerra, Bill Henkis and crew. Trash was not only placed in bags but it was separated into recyclable plastic, wood and other.

Channel 7

Guatemalan President in Belize
Guatemalan President Jimmy Morales in in Belize tonight - in advance of a SICA Presidential summit tomorrow.  Now, just the thought of his presence is sure to inflame many red-blooded Belizeans, after all his country is claiming at least half of Belize's territory. But, tonight he is here as a guest of the state.  Belize currently holds the presidency of SICA - which is the Central American Integration System - and tomorrow Prime Minister Dean Barrow will hand over the rotating presidency to Morales. 7News was at the airport for Morales's first visit as President: President Jimmy Morales's Presidential plane touched down at 3:15 PM. This is his first visit to Belize flying as the president  in this twin engine Beechcraft King Air 300. A BDF Guard of Honour stood by to greet him. While officials form his Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stood by to welcome him.

Salvadoran President Arrives, Two More Expected
And, the president of El Salvador arrived at the PGIA a few minutes after Morales.  He is Salvador Sánchez Cerén - and he arrived on an Avianca airplane.  Sanchez - Ceren received the same freeting as Morales - and was taken by motorcade - also to the Biltmore. Two more Presidents are expected tomorrow: Panama's and Honduras's.

Elrington Chairs Meeting Of SICA Foreign Ministers
And while all these presidents will meet tomorrow, today it was the SICA Ministers of Foreign Affairs who met at the Biltmore.  The meeting was chaired by Wilfred Elrington and he told us what is at the top of the agenda:.. Hon. Wilfred Elrington, Ministry of Foreign Affairs: "I think first of all the climate change, climate change is an existential issue, secondly the migration issue and then of course the question of security, that's a matter that transcends borders. Climate change transcend borders, migration transcends borders, security transcends borders and I like to think Jules - you know the United States sis having tremendous fire all over, what happens if we start having tremendous fires in the Chiquibul area? Given the very limited capacities we have to fight fires we would be in trouble unless we get help from outside. If a serious disease were to take place in this region, we will have to work together. There are so many ways in which we have to work together you know."

Still No Answers for Anisha, Family Offers Reward
Anisha Young's boyfriend has been re-detained but he isn't providing any useful information. He maintains his story that he went to bed and when he woke up, Anisha was gone. Today at the bi-weekly press briefing, police told us that her boyfriend was re-detained because of rumors that Young's body was dumped out there somewhere. But at this point, police still can't provide any concrete information in her case. Police also say they have been assisting the family with searches.

La Zafra Opens To An Uncertain Future
This morning, the new sugar season - known in the north as "La Zafra" -  opened with its usual pomp and ceremony at the BSI's Tower Hill Factory in the Orange Walk. You probably know that last year's season was particularly rough for the cane farmers due to the very low world market prices for sugar that persisted for all of last season. But the farmers and the millers are deeply invested into the future of the industry, and all involved must hope for a better financial outlook in the near future.  Our news team travelled north for the opening of the season, and Daniel Ortiz has that story: These VIP's of the sugar industry threw the first sugar cane stalks on one of the dumping tables at BSI's Tower Hill Factory. 

Finally A Protocol For Long-Standing Practice
The Ministries of National Security and Forestry along with the Friends for Conservation and Development signed the first ever Chiquibul And Vaca Forests protocol today. The document outlines key details on how to operate in these areas. Now, obviously, operations and patrols have been conducted in these areas that is nothing new, but according to the team, this protocol officially presents a more organized and collaborative approach to protecting these areas.  Courtney Weatherburne has more: Finally, after about a decade, the Chiquibul and Vaca Forests Joint Enforcement Protocol was drafted and signed today.

The Looming Threats In The Wilds of Vaca
FCD Executive Director Rafael Manzanero also gave us an update on what trends they have been noticing recently in the Chiquibul and some of the improvements they have seen. Manzaenro also discussed the illegal activities in the Vaca Forest reserve that haven't been properly addressed.  Rafael Manzanero - Executive Director, FCD: "The Chiquibul is always a dynamic situation. Chateros, illegal logging is no longer a problem in the Chiquibul, the terminology of chater is just remaining on the minds of Belizeans now and in the vocab of Belizeans but in reality we do not really have any major significant problems with chateros today..."

Pvt Fidel Williams Back Home
Private Fidel Williams - the soldier who lost his eye in an on-duty accident - has returned from Merida but the doctors could not operate on him as yet. CEO of Defense Felix Enriquez told us more. Felix Enriquez - CEO, Defence: "I actually met with him earlier this week, he's simply in very good spirit. He has returned from his initial visit to the doctors in Merida. They couldn't perform surgery on him because he's still healing, so he's schedule to return at some point. So for right now he's on sick leave and on recovery."

Businessman's Murder Still a Mystery
No one has been arrested for Michael Arnold's murder.  The Corozal businessman was killed on Monday night on a dark and deserted road on the outskirts of Corozal.  Police today confirmed a few details, like the fact that he had just bought food, and that he was in the passenger seat when he was shot twice to the head:.. ACP Joseph Myvett - Head, NCIB: "On Monday the 10th of December sometime around 10:40 PM Corozal police were on patrol in the Baizer layout area where they came across a white van. Upon making inspection of the van the apparent lifeless body of a male person later identified to be Michael Arnold 58 years business of a 4th avenue address was seen inside the vehicle on the passenger side.

Police Weigh Charges In Death of Child
Police also gave their report on the drowning of baby Marianne. The 11 month old drowned on Wednesday night when she slipped into a bucket of water at home. Police say they have not decided how they will proceed in regards to possible charges against the parents. ASP Alejandro Cowo, CIB - Eastern Division: "On Tuesday just before midnight police were called out to the KHMH where they observed a 11 month baby apparently dead. The information the police have gathered so far is that just sometime after 8:30 the baby was along with family members on Albert Hoye street whilst..."

Alleged Armed Robber Remanded
Tonight, 26 year-old Jeremy Mushlar, a labourer of Raccoon Street in Belize City, is at the Belize Central Prison after he was taken to court for robbing a water truck, and then shooting at the cops who responded to the robbery.
Police say that on Tuesday, December 11th, Mushlar and another man attempted to rob the employees of Energy Purified Water and Ice company from Orange Walk. Today, at the police press briefing, ASP Cowo shared more details on the case - including the multiple gunshots fired:

FM: Say No To The ICJ, Say Yes to Possibility of Guat Invasion
Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington has been pilloried many times in the press and the public for what are seen to be outlandish, even insulting statements.  He's previously said that those who don't vote yes to the ICJ must be crazy,  and today he took it one step further by saying that if you vote "no" - you could be courting a Guatemalan invasion.  Yup, he went there.  We pick up the interview where he's being asked to qualify his statement about the possibility of an invasion:.. The SICA Foreign Ministers Meeting ended today.

Youth B-Ball Team Boasts Stellar Record
8 months ago, we introduced you to the Future Shock Basketball Team. It's an initiative by Clinton "Pulu" Lightburn. You'll know him a local basketball legend who now coaches young men, in an effort to provide them with positive activities to counteract the influence of the gang life-style that's all around them on Belize City's Southside. The team has been together for 3 years now, and in all of their 69 games on the court, they remain undefeated.  Last weekend, they went back to Mexico to defend their Championship in the Gatorade Bacalar Cup, and after a nail-biting game in the finals the Future Shock  ballers to defeat the Mexican team from Distrito Federal by a single point.

One May Be Charged For Machete Maim
Police have one person in custody for the merciless case of machete maim in Armenia. Here's more from the Head of National Crimes Investigations. ACP Joseph Myvett - Head, NCIB: "Tuesday sometime around 2 AM police were called to the residence of Luis Hernandez in Armenia Village where upon arrival they observed a male hispanic person in an unconscious state with multiple chop wounds to the body and head. His name was later learnt to be Lucio Ruiz. So far, police have one person in custody pending this investigation. No charges have yet been preferred as the police investigation is still ongoing."

Bar Brawl turns Into Nose Biter
Usually when we report on bar brawls, someone is either badly busted up, stabbed or shot.. but bitten? That's a new one. It happened at a bar in Corozal. Two men got into it and one bit the other on the nose, ripping off a piece of it a real Class A Mike Tyson move. Here's more from police.

Home Invaders in Guinea Grass
A Guinea Grass woman's home was burglarized this morning. She was asleep when 3 men entered her home and raided it. Fortunately she wasn't harmed. Police told us more.

Staine Gets 16
For about 5 weeks now, we've been following the Supreme Court Trial of the 3 brothers, 46 year-old Phil Staine, 37 year-old Kareem Staine, and 41 year-old Orlando Staine, who were charged with murder. After a trial without jury, Justice Adolph Lucas acquitted  Kareem and Orlando Staine of both murder and manslaughter, but he found their other eldest brother, Phil Staine, guilty of manslaughter for the stabbing death of the 23 year-old BDF volunteer Denver Villafranco. Well, Justice Lucas decided today that Phil Staine will spend 16 years and 5 months in jail. The judge sentenced him to spend 20 years in jail, but he subtracted 3 years and 7 months, because that's how long Staine spent on remand awaiting trial.

Toys For Over 300 Kids Form Police and Embassies
Over 350 city kids got early Christmas gifts today - but the sponsors weren't local businesses, they were diplomats. Various embassies including the Taiwanese, the US and Mexico collaborated with the police give each child one toy.  It's Christmas community policing and the excited kids gathered at the Raccoon Street police station to get their gifts. Howell Gillett - Senior Superintendent and Regional Commander: "It's the coming together off five different embassies and a high commission. It's the Mexicans, the Americans, the Guatemalans, the Brazilians, the Taiwanese, and the British High Commission.

An Urban Garden Rejuvenates City
The Anglican Cathedral College has an urban garden. It is part of the multi million dollar downtown rejuvenation project which seeks to uplift and beautify public spaces. We spoke to school principal Ismael Requena about this initiative. Ismael Requena  - Principal of ACC: "This project is a collaboration between ACC, the Taiwanese embassy, the BTB and the ministry of agriculture. It is part of the downtown rejuvenation project and we here at ACC are very elated and in fact, thankful for this project; because it does bring a multifaceted approach in that it involves our students, our community and even our church..."

Channel 5

Guatemalan President in Belize for SICA Summit
Guatemalan President Jimmy Morales is in Belize. President Morales touched down at the P.G.I.A. at twenty minutes passed three o’clock this afternoon and is here for the 2018 SICA Summit [...]

Foreign Minister Says Vote “NO” and Guatemala Might Invade
There have been ongoing lectures in different parts of the country and from what has been detected, there seems to be an anti-I.C.J. sentiment.  Minister Wilfred Elrington is known to [...]

Wilfred Elrington Responds to Dickie Bradley and Assad Shoman
Two point five million dollars have been budgeted by the government for the I.C.J. Referendum campaign.  An education campaign, apart from but similar to the government-sponsored I.C.J. campaign, concluded on [...]

What Happened to the Sarstoon Protocol?
There is another protocol to report about tonight. It is the Sarstoon Protocol, which is still up in the air. In June 2016, the foreign ministers of both Belize and [...]

SICA Heads in Belize for Summit
The leaders of all seven Central American countries are in Belize for the 2018 SICA Summit. For the past six months, Belize was at the helm of the Central American [...]

A New Set of Rules for Joint Operations in the Chiquibul Forest
While Guatemalan president and foreign minister are at the Biltmore, in Belmopan, a protocol was signed to deal with encroachments in the Chiquibul and Vaca Forests by persons from Guatemala [...]

Chiquibul Protocol Long in the Making, But Finally Here
The newly established guidelines, according to Minister John Saldivar, who holds the national security portfolio, sets out the means by which the respective agencies, including the Forestry Department, will conduct [...]

Boyfriend Re-Detained, but Still No Signs of Anisha Young
Hopes are dimming tonight for the family of Anisha Young; they are offering a reward of ten thousand dollars for concrete information on her whereabouts.  The twenty-three-year-old disappeared on Sunday [...]

Shootout between Police and Armed Robber
On Tuesday around two p.m., a Belizean truck driver from Orange Walk was shot inside a water truck he was driving in the Gungulung area of Belize City. Two men [...]

Who Wanted Michael Arnold Dead & Why?
On Monday night, Corozal police came across an abandoned white van in an isolated area of Baeza Layout of the town. On the passenger side of the vehicle was the [...]

1 Person Detained for Asher Saunders’ Murder
While police have no leads in the murder of Michael Arnold, they say that they have one person detained in connection with the murder of Asher Saunders in Belize City. [...]

Official Details on Rudy Morales Drowning
Two persons drowned in separate incidents earlier this week in Belize City and Corozal. On Monday evening, a boat incident in the vicinity of the Cerros Maya Monument ended fatally [...]

Will Parents of Marianne Vasquez be Charged for her Death?
The other victim was an eleven-month-old baby who drowned in a bucket of water inside her family home in Belama phase two. Marianne Vasquez is believed to have tried to [...]

2018/2019 Sugar Cane Crop Opens While World Sugar Prices Continue Declining
The mills at the A.S.R./B.S.I. factory at Tower Hill cranked up this morning to give way to the 2018-2018 sugar cane crop.  Production is expected to be in the range [...]

Home Invasion in Guinea Grass
There was a home invasion this morning in Guinea Grass Village, Orange Walk. Three masked men broke into the house of Veronica Quetzal and stole an assortment of jewellery; the [...]

Vicious Chopping in Armenia
An Armenia villager is in critical, but stable condition at the Western Regional Hospital after he was chopped multiple times to the head and body as he slept in a [...]

Missing Dangriga Teen Found in Steadfast
There are also two missing person reports from the national crimes investigation branch. A Mexican national was reported missing on Monday. Teresa Gomez says that her farm caretaker, seventy-two-year-old Arturo [...]

SIDS Finance Negotiators: “Are Developed Countries Delivering on Commitment?”
Tonight we have another report on COP 24 in Poland where negotiations are expected to go into the weekend since not much progress has been made in creating the rules [...]

Jenelli Fraser Rocks Stage at Miss Universe 2018
Millions across the world tuned in this morning for the preliminary competition at the Miss Universe pageant in Bangkok, Thailand. Here, Belizeans woke up early to view the pageant that [...]

200 Jingle Boxes for Needy Families this Christmas
The Jingle Boxes are ready for distribution to deserving families courtesy of Bowen and Bowen Limited. Each box of goodies contains treats to make Christmas for the families a happy [...]

Police Christmas Toys for Needy Children
As many as four hundred children from communities across Belize City received Christmas toys today through an initiative led by the Belize Police Department.  The gift-giving effort is a partnership [...]

Healthy Living: Health Gifts
For many of us Christmas feels like a time of indulgence. There’s lots of food, lots of drinks and lots spending. We’re sure many of you are still struggling to [...]

LOVE FM

Police trace last movements of Slain Businessman
Prominent Corozal businessman Michael Arnold was one of the founders of the Corozal Free Zone was murdered on Monday night in the Baeza Layout area. The investigating officers have traced his movements on that night. ASP Alejandro Cowo, the Officer in Charge of C.I.B. says he was found in the passenger seat of his van …

Will police charge parents for toddler that drowned?
Assistant Superintendent Cowo also spoke about the investigation into the death of the 11 month old toddler, Marianne Vasquez who drowned in a bucket of water in the Belama area of Belize City. Cowo says no charges have been made against the parents Daren Vasquez and Marina Torres. ASP Alejandro Cowo: “On Tuesday just before …

Private Williams continues to recover from injury
A month ago, Private Fidel Williams of the Belize Defence Force, stationed at the Forward Operating Base located at the Sarstoon had a freak accident while on duty that left him in a critical condition. As a result, one of Williams’ eye was extensively damaged and was removed during a surgery at the Karl Heusner …

The Search for Anisha Young Continues
The search for Anisha Young continues. The police say that Young in the company of friends and her boyfriend went from a Christmas party at the Princess Hotel to the Sit and Sip bar. She then accompanied her boyfriend to Nargosta Street and that’s when, the police say she disappeared without a trace. ASP, Alejandro …

PM dampens chances of Belizean Citizens Abroad in ICJ Vote
Earlier this year, the long-awaited re-registration process commenced and one of the requirement was that persons had to be living at their present address for at least two-months. This automatically disqualified the thousands of Belizeans living abroad. A group of Belizeans in the diaspora organized themselves into Belizean Citizens Abroad, an association which is hoping …

Sugar Crop officially opened
The 2018/2019 Sugar Crop was officially opened this morning. Stakeholders in the sugar market gathered at the Belize Sugar Industry factory for the ceremonial opening. The sugar crop opens when sugar prices are at an all-time low. But already farmers and the BSI have felt the impact of lowered global prices and the shift in …

Staff of Company Share with NGO’s for Xmas
Across the country, corporate partners are investing in communities and families that are truly deserving of Christmas cheer and a helping hand. The staff of Bowen and Bowen partnered with a few NGO’s and government institutions to share the Christmas joy in this following report. Jose Sanchez: “The staff of Bowen and Bowen has decided …

Global Warming: a race against time
It is a race against time to put in place measures that will combat global warming in order to avoid catastrophic weather pattern. In this regard, countries have agreed to reduce greenhouse gas emission in an effort to keep global warming under 1.5 degrees under the Paris Agreement. Love news spoke with Dr. Ulric Trotz, …

One Year Anniversary of the Blast that Shook Santa Elena
December 12th was the one year anniversary of the detonation of explosives at a quarry in a residential section of Santa Elena Town. Seventy-year-old Ronald Sutherland, the general manager of Tiger Aggregates lost his life while many homes were damaged. Cayo correspondent Fem Cruz spoke to some residents whose home were damaged and inquired how …

UNICEF Belize and Local Government attend Conference on Rights of Youths
The United Nations Children’s Fund is a United Nations program that provides humanitarian and developmental assistance to children and mothers in developing countries. A team from UNICEF Belize travelled to Chile for the first regional dialogue convened to kick off preparations on the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). Next year will make …

Toledo Police and Community Meet and Greet
But that wasn’t the only initiative taking place in tight-knit community in Punta Gorda Town. The police must step up their patrols and also canvas the neighborhoods not to give gifts but advice to establishments and individuals who become targets for criminals …

Justified Force was used in barrage of shots against thief
We told you earlier in the week about the daring robbery in the Gungulung area of Belize City. Two men on a motorcycle robbed an Orange Walk Ice Delivery truck. One of them shot Carlos Triminio on the leg. The police chased one of the suspects and there was tremendous gunfire …

Patrols in Chiquibul will operate under a protocol
The Chiquibul Forest Reserve is the largest forest reserve in Belize with 459,000 acres; however, it has become quite a challenge to protect from illegal incursion such as poaching, gold panning, illegal logging and illegal farming by Guatemalans …

Taiwan gives funds to Belmopan City Council for a vehicle
The Taiwan government has assisted the Belmopan City Council in its project to equip the Transport Department with a new vehicle to address the dispatching issue of traffic wardens to heavy traffic junctions during rush hours …

Guatemala’s President Jimmy Morales in Belize for SICA
Guatemala’s President Jimmy Morales arrived at the Philip Goldson International Airport today. Guatemala takes over the Pro Tempore Presidency of the Central American Integration System (SICA). Morales was greeted by officials of Guatemala’s Embassy in Belize along with representative …

Breaking Belize News

Police provide update on disappearance of Anisha Young
On Monday family members of Anisha Young reported topolice that she had not been seen since […]

3 masked men sought in armed burglary in Guinea Grass
This morning there was a case of aggravated burglary reported in Guinea Grass, Orange Walk. Veronica Quetzal […]

Missing Teen Found Safe With 21-Year-Old Man
A teen reported missing has been found in Steadfast, Stann Creek by police. But instead of […]

Belize Police in communication with Guatemalan authorities about suspected murder who fled to Guatemala
The Belize Police Department has contacted their counterparts in Guatemala in connection with the murder of […]

Elias Lopez, 21, charged for aggravated assault
Early this week, we reported that Jose Ical, 42, hadhis left arm amputated. That was after he […]

Man chopped while sleeping in a hammock in stable condition at hospital
In the wee hours of Tuesday morning, police were called to the residence of Luis Hernandez […]

400 Children attend 8th Annual Spirit of Christmas Concert
The Bliss Center for Performing Arts in Belize City was once again packed with over 400 children […]

Police provide update on murder of Corozal businessman
On Monday night Corozal police were on patrol in the Baizar Layout area when they […]

Guatemalan President arrives in Belize for SICA meeting
President of Guatemala, Jimmy Morales has just arrived at the Philip Goldson International Airport in Belize. […]

Bouncer’s nose bitten off while escorting disorderly patron out of bar
A bouncer at a bar was maimed by an uncontrollable patron. Yesterday Julio Gomez visited […]

Del Monte FIESTA CORN Seasoned with Red & Green Peppers recalled
The Ministry of Health in partnership with the Belize Agriculture Health Authority (BAHA) and the […]

Ministry of Health advises that Mercury detected in Fish
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Department of Environment and the Belize Electric Company […]

Wesley Primary School targeted by thieves
Wesley Primary School on Albert Street in Belize City was targeted by thieves early this week. […]

GOB refuses to honor another court judgment
The Government of Belize (GoB) is on track to defy yet another court-ordered judgment. In October […]

$10,000 reward offered to find Anny Young
The family of Anisha “ Anny” Young is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to […]

Blogs

Brrrr….Belize Cold Front Ends, Next One on Its Way
Each December and January…sometimes into February, we get a few cold fronts in Belize. The wind shifts – blowing in from the north – and the humidity plummets (from the usual 90+%). It feels legitimately cold though the temperature rarely goes below the high 60s. Belize hasn’t embraced the dramatic language of our northern AccuWeather neighbors – Arctic Blast, Polar Vortex…yet. The cold front blew in Monday with grey skies and 20mph winds and even the street dogs were cold – all curled up in potlicker balls. This cutie, who always hangs out in front of the Hol Chan Office, was actually wearing a t-shirt.

Enjoy the Cold Front
Cold Front in Belize is one of the time in Belize where most of us are still not comfortable as yet. Jakets has to be worn at upper 65' degrees. But, for some, this type of weather in Belize is warm for them since they live in colder towns like below 0. Every year in Corozal in month of December and January, Or, sometimes into February, cold fronts approaches with a strong wing gusts in Belize. The water dries up several feet as far as people can walk. Either, they're lucky enough to find something or not this quite an adventourous. The water gets cleared for sometime.

International Sources

Guatemala: An indigenous community rejects, then accepts, a protected area
Riding in a small motorboat along the Atlantic coast of Guatemala, Francisco Cuz Acal looked over his left shoulder at the lush forest cover whizzing by. To his right lay nothing but open water. Straight ahead, far off in the distance, he could just barely make out the Belizean coastline behind a misty haze. Cuz Acal was cruising along the eastern edge of the Río Sarstún Multiple Use Area, 350 square kilometers (135 square miles)of land home to more than 300 species of tropical birds and other animalsthat the Guatemalan government declared a protected area in 2005. The 41-year-old has always lived off the land in La Guaira Cocolí, a community along the Río Sarstún, providing for his family through fishing, agriculture and selling wood when necessary. The local indigenous Q’eqchi’ community, 78 percent of the population in the 21 communities along the Río Sarstún, has always felt an affinity and respect for its land. But as the population has grown, the community has not always considered how its practices could impact the environment.

7 top travel destinations in 2019 for the luxury traveller
The time for new year resolutions is approaching and for travellers, more stamps on the passport is a goal. Check out these places that should be explored in 2019. By now, you should be coming up with your travel bucketlist for 2019, if you don't have one already. We're here to help you with some suggestions. 1. Belize. With one foot in the Central American jungles and the other in the Caribbean Sea, pint-sized Belize is packed with islands, adventure and culture. Exploring the caves, snorkelling, fishing, scuba diving, exploring the Caribbean sea and islands, seeing the Maya temples, are just some of the things you can do on this coastal country.

Videos

December 13, 2018

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Specials and Events

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

The San Pedro Sun

Belizean Delegation hosted by Ministry of Culture of El Salvador for Seminar and Bilateral Talks
On Thursday, December 6th, representatives of Belize’s National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) participated in a seminar titled, “Rediscovering our Afro-descendent Origins in Central America: The Case of Belize and El Salvador”. The seminar was organized by the Embassy of Belize in El Salvador with support from the Central American Integration System, the World Bank and the Ministry of Culture of El Salvador. Academics from both Belize and El Salvador presented papers on topics related to Garifuna Culture and Heritage, Sociological Perspectives on Crime and Violence in Belize City, and Afro-descendants in the Salvadoran context.

SPHS Girls advance U-17 Inter-District Football Tournament Finals!
During the semifinals round of Belize’s Under-17 (U-17) Female Inter-District Football Tournament, San Pedro High School (SPHS) Girls managed to claim victory against Orange Walk Town’s Vibe Alive International in San Pedro Town on Sunday, December 9th. With this 2-0 victory, the island team advanced directly to the finals of the tournament. After halftime, both teams came back fierce and determined to take the victory. With the island team already on a 2-0 lead, Vibe Alive International made many attempts to score, but SPHS Girls’ goalkeeper, Dennisa Mairena managed to block them all. The long whistle blew, signaling SPHS Girls that with their 2-0 win, they are advancing to the finals of Belize’s U-17 Inter-District Football Tournament. The U-17 Female finals will be held on Sunday, December 16th at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium in Belmopan City. The SPHS Girls will face Blackman Eddy Royals for the championship. The game is scheduled to start at t 10AM.

Inauguration of the Gian C. Gandhi Building
An official ceremony was held on Thursday, December 6th, to inaugurate the Gian C. Gandhi Building in Belmopan. The building will serve as the headquarters for the International Financial Services Commission (IFSC) in Belize. The IFSC was previously housed in the Sir Edney Cain Building in Belmopan. The newly renovated building was named in honour of the late attorney Mr. Gandhi, who was the first Director General of IFSC. Late Attorney Mr. Gian Chand Gandhi, S.C. was a career public officer who devotedly served Belize for over 30 years in various capacities, including Crown Counsel and Solicitor General.

The San Pedro Dance Academy presents Alice in Wonderland during their annual Christmas show
The ‘Adventures of Alice in Wonderland’ was performed by the San Pedro Dance Academy during their annual end-of-year Christmas show on Saturday, December 8th. The show is based on an 1865 novel written by Lewis Carroll, about a girl named Alice, who falls into a fantasy world populated by peculiar creatures. Held at the San Pedro Lions Den, the show saw a full house of proud parents and family who were delighted with a performance that included Steel Pan music and several dance performances. For an entry fee of $10, attendees enjoyed a variety of entertainment, beginning with the dramatization of Alice in Wonderland. Alice, interpreted by Karissa Vasquez and Lilian Rivero, took the audience through a wonderful, magical world, where Alice was met with talking flowers, butterflies, the Cheshire Cat, and Caterpillar.

3rd Annual Child Advisory Board (CAB) Presidents Meet in San Pedro
Many island students were educated during the 3rd Annual Child Advisory Board (CAB) President’s Meeting 2018 held at the San Pedro Town Central Park on Friday, December 7th. CAB is a youth organization under the Sustainable Child-Friendly Municipalities (SCMF) that advocates for children and adolescents in the community through the development of the city by its Town Council. The CAB aims to use the National Children’s Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals to promote equality, greater social inclusion, diversity of children’s, experiences, abilities, and acknowledgment of cultures by promoting the education of health, justice, and social protection of children.

Ambergris Today

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe in San Pedro
Took place Wednesday. It started early with mañanitas at 4am, prayers, mass and breakfast. Many residents and Catholic faithfuls are paying tribute in their own way at home. The R.C School also held story telling of our Lady of Guadalupe. The San Pedro Roman Catholic Church also had an evening program prepared for the feast.

Pic Of The Week - Miss Universe Belize National Costume
Miss Universe Belize Janelle Frazer debuted her National Costume at the Miss Universe national costume competition and it depicted the Mayan God Kinich Ahau and the jade head. She graced the stage with her stunning outfit made by the ever talented designers David A. Matus and Roberto Pasos Dominguez. All the best to Miss Universe Belize and she proudly represents out lovely Jewel – Belize.

Electricity Rate Increase Pending Approval
BEL Proposes Adjustment to Approved Rates On Monday, December 10, 2018, Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) notified the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) that due to significant increase in cost of power since May 20018, the company is proposing to increase the Mean Electricity Rate (MER) to $0.4150 per kWh for the remainder of the Annual Tariff Period January 1 to June 30, 2018.

Misc Belizean Sources

Banyan Bay Market
The Market is designed to bring business entities, local vendors and artisans under one roof, offering their goods and services to the San Pedro Community, at bargain prices. Shop for organic items, fresh baked breads, meats, scrumptious pizzas, local fine art, exotic sushi specials and many more... Held twice a month or every two weeks, the Market is seeing a rising trend in its visitors and vendors wanting to participate. We look forward to seeing you all for our high season Market Days!

GOB Statement on the death of Hon. Dr. Jane Usher
The Government of Belize wishes to extend its deepest sympathies to the family of Hon. Dr. Jane Usher. Dr. Jane Usher served Belize as a politician and area representative of the Pickstock constituency for two consecutive terms. She also served as a Cabinet minister and as President of the Senate. Dr. Usher has been recorded in Belize political history as embroidering the first Belizean flag. She spearheaded a strong wave of women political consciousness in Belize during her tenure as President of the National Women’s Commission, as CEDAW (Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Violence Against Women) was adopted into policies and legislation in Belize.

NOTICE TO ALL MOTORISTS
Global Status Report on Road Safety from World Health Organization (WHO) 2018 indicates that 1.35 million persons die annually as a result of Road Traffic Crashes. The Department of Transport takes this opportunity to wish all drivers, motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians a safe Christmas and New Year 2019. Remember the true meaning of Christmas. Peace and love to all!

Statement by Hon. John Briceño Leader of the People’s United Party On the passing of Mrs. Jane Usher S. JP Former Member of the House of Representatives
All of us in the People’s United Party are grateful for the life of Mrs. Jane Usher. Her contribution to the development of this nation is unmatched. Miss Jane, as everyone fondly knows her, spent her life in the service of others. As a PUP Minister of Housing or as the head of her beloved Holy Redeemer Credit Union, Miss Jane was about the people. She worked in the service of regular Belizeans who, through their small contributions, were able to build their homes, educate their children, or bury their parents. I am proud to be the leader of a Party that was beloved by Miss Jane. In the PUP, we celebrate her contributions, we give thanks for her years of guidance and sensible counsel and we stand here in solidarity with her children and grandchildren because we know that through all her years of service, Miss Jane was first and foremost a matriarch, a mother and grandmother who loved all her children and grandchildren. So from all of us in the PUP, to the Price and Usher Families, we say thank you and we are with you at this time. Miss Jane joins her husband Henry and her brother, our beloved Mr. Price and the rest of her family members who have gone before her to that eternal reward which our Lord has prepared for those who love Him.

Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Important day Wednesday for Catholics in northern Belize as they celebrate the Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe at the St. Francis Xavier Parish mass in Corozal.

U.S. Embassy Belize statement on the death of Dr. Jane Ellen Mary Usher
The U.S. Embassy expresses our heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Dr. Jane Ellen Mary Usher. Remembering the life of a remarkable woman who tirelessly gave her time and resources to others as a role model and mentor. In 2017, the Embassy chose Dr. Usher as Belize Woman of the Year for her life-long contributions to economic empowerment and dedicated public service. Rest in Peace Dr. Usher.

This Sunday el Festival del Pueblo
Homenaje a los liberadores Mayas. Ko'one'ex !!! Ko'one'ex !!! U Xamanai Masewalo'ob tu Belize . Kux'ano'on !!! Every one is invited to VII Festival del Pueblo in San Lazaro (Orange walk) . Come,enjoy and celebrate our Maya identity .

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY 2018
On Saturday, December 1st, 2018, the San Pedro Town Council held its Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Central Park. Opening the ceremony was Mayor Daniel Guerrero where he welcomed everyone to the event and was grateful for everyone's presence. At the end of his speech, he shouted, "Let there be light!" and the Christmas tree was lit in all its glory. Sharing some Christmas cheer as well was the Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr., Minister of Tourism & Civil Aviation, where he thanked the Bowen Family for the donation of the tree that brings the town together every year for Christmas.

Take Note:- San Joaquin dog owners!
Spay & Neuter Clinic January 11 & 12.

Xmas Rock
SonicBrew, Leon Banks, and many more artists will be performing at the Boulevard in Benque on Saturday, December 22nd. It's the last Metal Haven show of the year. Tickets are $10, and prizes will be raffled off through the night. "Come out and support the our last show for 2018 at Boulevard Bar & Grill this December 22nd. As you may know Boulevard will soon be closing its doors so come out and rock one last time here!"

Environmental Police from Guatemala Visit
Members of the Environmental Police from Guatemala, DIPRONA, conducted an exchange visit with members of the Police Department. Aim was to share and learn about environmental regulations and the Chiquibul. FCD facilitated this event with support from the British High Commission in Belize.

Popol Vuh : Lords of Xibalba
The head of the pantheon is Hun-Came (“One Death”) followed by Vucub-Came (“Seven Death). The remaining ten Lords rule over a particular form of human suffering. According to the Maya legend, these death lords often worked together in pairs. There was Xiquiripat ("Flying Scab") and Cuchumaquic ("Gathered Blood") who worked to poison people’s blood. There was Ahalpuh ("Pus ") and Ahalgana ("Jaundice ") who made bodies swell and rot. There was Chamiabac ("Bone Staff") and Chamiaholom ("Skull Staff"), who slowly striped the flesh from the dead to turn them into skeletons. There was Ahalmez ("Sweepings ") and Ahaltocob ("Stabbing "), who were believed to hide in the unswept areas of a person’s home and stab them to death. And finally there was Xic ("Wing") and Patan ("Packstrap"), who made people cough up blood and suffer while walking on a road.

Channel 7

Jane Usher, Titan of Credit Union Movement, Dead At 101
Tonight, Belize has lost a national icon, and a pioneering legend of the Credit Union movement. Jane Ellen Usher, known to all as "Ms. Jane" from the Holy Redeemer Credit Union died at 5:00 this morning. She passed at home surrounded by family at the age of 101. She had been working in the Credit Union up to last year November when she had a fall and broke her pelvis. From there, her health slowly deteriorated, leading to this morning's passing from symptoms associated with old age. Her legacy is among the most celebrated and enduring in Belize's history - but to the everyday person, "Ms. Jane" wasn't up in the political stratosphere like politicians or big-time bankers - she was down to earth, right there in her office on Hyde's Lane, a daily presence - and almost like a family member to the almost 60 thousand members of the Holy Redeemer Credit Union...

House Members Take a Moment For "Ms. Jane"�
Today at the House of Representatives in Belmopan, both sides of the floor recognized the contribution and the legend of their former parliamentary colleague. The Prime Minister even donned his best blue shirt:.. Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister "I chose the closest thing I could find to the PUP blue to wear this morning in honor of Ms. Jane." "...in asking if you would permit this house, or indeed call upon the house, to stand in a moment of silence with respect to the passing of Ms. Jane, who was, of course, not just a parliamentarian and a minister of government, but indeed an institution. We talk about Holy Redeemer Credit Union, but she was synonymous with that credit union." "But HRCU continues to endure, and it is due principally to the outstanding leadership of that outstanding Belizean woman. We know that she is the sister of our national hero, but in her own right, she was a Belizean heroine."

PUP Claims "Ms. Jane"�
And while both sides of the House honoured Jane Usher - to the PUP, she was family: George Price's big sister and a former representative in Pickstock. Today at Independence Hall, PUP Secretary General Linsford Castillo read a statement on behalf of the PUP which highlighted Usher's political life and her service to the PUP and the people. Linsford Castillo, PUP Secretary General: "I will now read a statement from our party leader which was issued to the media earlier today; "All of us in the people's United Party are grateful for the life of Mrs. Jane Usher. Her contribution to the development of this nation is unmatched. Miss Jane, as everyone fondly knows her spent her life in the service of others. As a PUP minister of housing or as the head of her beloved Holy Redeemer Credit Union, Miss Jane was about the people..."

11 Year Old Drowns in Bucket in Belama
An 11 month old drowned last night at her parents' Albert Hoy Street home in Belama Phase 3. Baby Marianne slipped into a bucket of water and drowned. Courtney Weatherburne found out more about this terrible tragedy and how one oversight cost the baby her life. Here is that story. The Vasquez's of Belama Phase 3 had the most terrible night. Their 11 month old baby girl Marianne drowned in this wash room inside a bucket just like this one. According to the father, Daren Vasquez, his wife was cooking dinner, and he was outside talking to a guest. Their 8 year old son was playing with Marianne in the room until he ran to the store. That's when baby Marianne slipped away.

Family Desperate For Answers About Anisha
It's been 4 days now since 23 year-old Anisha Young went missing, and her family is gravely concerned about her wellbeing tonight. They're hoping for the best, but preparing for the worst. As we've reported, she attended her staff Christmas Party on Saturday night, and after that, she went to Sit and Sip with her boyfriend and other friends. Several hours later, they all left in a taxi which dropped off her friends first, and then, the driver took her and her boyfriend home. Since then, nobody has seen or heard from her, and due to an ominous call that her family received, they began organizing search parties to look for her. Every day since, they've been going out for most of the daylight hours in the hopes of finding her alive. And with no kind of luck, their hope is starting to dwindle.

No Charges Yet In Delivery Truck Jacking
Last night we told you about the armed robbery of a water truck, leading to a wild police chase and apprehension of a suspect. Tonight, police have the details. Two men pulled up to the Orange Walk delivery truck on a motorbike and one shot Carlos Triminio to the leg, while the other hit Jimel Coye to the head. They snatched the bag from the truck with an undisclosed amount of money. Police pursued the culprits, who abandoned the motorcycle, fled and fired shots at the police. The man in possession of the cash bag was caught and detained, while the other escaped. No one has been charged yet.

Rats At Vital Stats?
And going back to Belmopan now for today's house meeting - it was a relatively short session - lasting for only four hours. Most of the legislative business had to do with emergency legislation pushed through to quickly bring Belize's EPZ and IBC regulations in line with European Trade standards. You'll hear all about that later on, but first to the most controversial bit from today's meeting. The PUP's senior member Said Musa spoke on the adjournment about the woeful state of affairs at the Vital Statistics Unit which is now affecting the voters' re-registration process. As many as five thousand names are in limbo because vital stats cannot find their stats. Musa said it needs urgent attention - and the UDP's Michael Finnegan agreed:...

Opposition Leader Calls For Lower Prices on Diesel
So, to clarify what the Minister of Health said, hospitals cannot deny newborns the registration of their newborns if their medical bills are not fully paid. It is not permitted by policy or law. If it happens to you, call the Ministry of Health, or call us. Speaking on another matter of urgent public interest, Opposition Leader John Briceno discussed the crushing price of diesel fuel. It remains at over ten dollars - and at the height of the tourist season and the start of the cane crop - it's a hold-back on economic activity. He said the taxes on fuel are too high. Hon. John Briceno- Leader of the Opposition: "Today our farmers and the people in the productive sector have to struggle with the cost of diesel at $10.75 per gallon. This administration got elected to office on the promise to bring down the cost of living no matter what. Guess what? When they came into office in 2008, the cost of diesel at the pump was $8.10. Today it is $2.65 more than it was than when they were just elected back in 2008..."

Caledonia Cane Roads In Crisis
And those high costs - especially of fuel - directly affect cane farmers - who are getting very low prices for the sugar they sell on the world market. Today the member for Corozal Southeast said the government has to urgently do something:.. Hon. Florencio Marin- PUP Corozal Southeast: "Just today some of the cane farmers from the Village of Caledonia, a village that I represent, a village that is UDP, that stands alone by itself with solid UDP support, the farmers have not had one upgrading of their road, not one preparation of that road for this cane season that will be starting tomorrow. Today, they protested, madam speaker, from that particular area. I would like to ask the Prime Minister to please get some repairs to these cane roads because it is quite critical; the safra starts tomorrow. Prime Minister, the price is really low. Believe you me, we are all feeling it. Any help the farms can get, they need it."

The Caledonia Close-Up
And while the government is committing funds - the cane seasons opens tomorrow - and that money is too late for the cane farmers of Caledonia village in the Corozal district. They say they can't even get four wheel drive pickups into their fields to cut cane because of the awful state of the cane roads. Today they held a protest and led TV-3 on a tour of those roads - where the chairman explained the log-standing urgency:.. Fabian Andy Westby- Branch Chairman, Caledonia: "The tour that we have done today is the main road that we use to take out the production, the main movement right now but we can't even pass with the pickup to carry workers, much less to cut it. And if we manage to cut it and we manage to take it out of the fields and we will bag on a road like this with a low price, it will even make it worse for us..."

CARICOM Resisting Direct Consumption Sugars
And while those roads can't be fixed fast enough - that's not the only urgency in the cane industry. As we've been reporting, the sugar cane is at a crisis crossroads. Global prices for sugar have crashed - and it has resulted in a major cut in earnings for Belize's cane farmers. Their only hope now is that ASR/BSI can market what are called direct consumption sugars to CARICOM. This sugar would be traded under beneficial CSME tariff provisions. But there is a problem; many CARICOM producers want the European sugar. Belize has been to COTED to lobby for the introduction of this DC sugar to local Caribbean markets but there is that native resistance:..

Pier One's Preferential Agreement With Former Council
In last night's newscast, we showed you the press briefing that Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner hosted to discuss their concerns about the murder of Asher Saunders, which happened at the Pier 1 night club. As we told you, Saunders was shot and killed following a confrontation between 2 gangs. Even with the police providing security, the shooter was still able to gun down Saunders. There have been other violent incidents at Pier 1, and following last Friday's fatal shooting, the public began bringing pressure on the City Council to take action. The Mayor told the press yesterday, that they are taking a serious look at the Pier 1 business model, since it's a nightclub that sits on the BTL Park property. The public concern is that its presence there is causing the park to become unsafe for families and children.

Anger From Anisha's Family
As we told you earlier, the family and friends of Anisha Young assembled in front of the Queen Street police station from around 5:30 this evening. They were awaiting the release of Young's boyfriend who they believe has all the answers to Young's disappearance. Emotions are high and the family's patience is running thin. We went over to speak to the group a little about an hour ago, and here is what they had to say. Sheree Salgado, Cousin: "He is expected to be release tonight. We need answers. We want to know what the police have on him, if there is any lead. What is he saying to the police, because he was the last one seen with her. If we have to sleep out here because we need justice - we need for him to speak up. Reality is that Annie never goes this long without contacting her family and so we know that something is wrong."

EPZ/IBC Legislation Pushed Through Before Dec 31 Deadline
We already showed you a lot of the back and forth from today's house meeting. But, all those matters of public interest came up on the adjournment. The business of today's house meeting had everything to do with bringing Belize's Export Processing Zone and Offshore banking regulations in line with European standards for transparent tax regimes which meet the OCED code of conduct. It's highly technical stuff, and government's technocrats have been working for weeks, right up to today's House Sitting to bring the revised legislation in line to meet those European standards. The new laws have to be in place by the end of this month or Belize will face sanctions. The Prime Minister apologized for the undue haste - but said there is no other choice:...

Kareem's Wheel & Come Again
And, while the Designated Processing Areas Bill, the Income and Business Tax Amendment Bill, the Stamp Duties Amendment Bill, and the International Business companies Amendment Bill were all passed today, one piece of legislation that was not introduced was Kareem Musa's diaspora voters legislation, the proposed amendment to the representation of people act. He explains why it was not introduced at today's special sitting:.. Hon. Kareem Musa: "I just wanted to give an update, madam speaker that it will be presented at the next ordinary sitting of the House as directed by your ladyship. In addition to that, madam speaker, a bit of good news on that point; I had the opportunity to consult with the Prime Minister in chambers at the back and I don't know if it is the seasoned Prime Minister or if maybe it is the blue shirt. I don't think it is none of the two..."

House Meeting "Hug-Up"�
And, if the Prime Minister's handling of that seemed a little more delicate than usual, it may have been in the spirit of the day. This is the last house meeting for the calendar year - and there's always a little Christmas collegiality in the air at the House. This was evidenced in the PM's goodwill to all members Christmas greeting:...

The Police & Public's
Over the past several months, we've been telling you about the initiatives that the Eastern Division Region 1's Commander, Howell Gillett, has been engaging in to boost morale amongst Southside cops. The business community has been partnering with him to set up police booths at different stationary checkpoints, and Gillett has also been working out arrangements with different businesses to get discounts for his police officers. And, just in time for the Christmas season, he and the management of Public Supermarket came to an arrangement where officers from Region 1 are being given a 4% discount on purchases made at the stores.

Auto Rental Company Uses Stroke of Good Luck To Help Out A Deserving NGO
And while Public's Supermarket is spreading a little Christmas cheer to police, Crystal Auto Rental wants to give one an NGO a brand new ride. As we told you on Friday, the company won a pickup truck in a giveaway raffle from the Caribbean Tires and Motors. Since they're an auto rental company with a vast fleet, they don't exactly need a new vehicle, so they want to give it way to an NGO who can get more use out of it. The General Manager of the company told us more about the initiative today:

Mayor Bernard On Ms. Jane
And, finally tonight, we have more reflections on Jane Usher, that giant of the Credit Union movement in Belize. She passed away at 5:00 this morning, but her legacy and imprint will live on for a very long time. Belize City Mayor and former banker, Bernard Wagner also spoke on what was most significant about Ms. Jane: Bernard Wagner - Mayor, Belize City Council: "The Belize City Council joins the family of Dr. Jane Usher in mourning her passing. Miss Jane as she was affectionally known was a trailblazer. Certainly she was one of our most prominent and accomplished citizens. While the Belize City Council joins you in mourning, we also join in celebrating the extraordinary life of this remarkable woman.."

Jane Usher's Impact on Financial Sector
Financial analyst from Legacy Fund Ervin Perez also gave us an insight into Ms. Jane's Holy Redeemer empire. He shared his most recent interaction with her and emphasized how her work at the HRCU impacted Belize's financial sector. Ervin Perez, Managing Director - Legacy Fund: "I think for the entire its like losing a grandmother, but for us in the financial industry its like losing a pioneer in terms of the financial market and what she was able to do within the credit union sector..."

Channel 5

The Iconic Miss Jane Usher Passes
Belizeans woke up this morning to the sad news that the iconic Miss Jane Usher had passed away peacefully at her house on the Philip Goldson surrounded by her loved [...]

Parliament Observes a Moment of Silence for Miss Jane
The beloved credit union pioneer was also a politician and former parliamentarian.  She had represented the Pickstock Division under the People’s United Party from 1989 to 1993.  Today, the House [...]

11-Month-Old Baby Girl Drowns In Bucket
Tragedy struck a Belize City family on Tuesday night. Eleven-month-old Marianne Vasquez fell and drowned in a bucket of water at her home in Belama. According to the family, baby [...]

Michael Arnold’s Murder Investigation Continues
Tonight police in Corozal are trying to figure out who killed Michael Arnold and why. Arnold, a very popular businessman in the community, was found with two gunshot wounds to [...]

Anisha Young’s Family Getting Desperate
Just before News Five, the family and friends of missing woman, Anisha Young, congregated at the Queen Street Police Station when word spread that her boyfriend was being released from [...]

Wesley Lower School Targeted by Thieves
Wesley Primary School on Albert Street was broken into on Tuesday morning by two thieves who arrived at the school well armed to carry out the crime. Surveillance footage shows [...]

Gas Gone Up, Will Electricity Bill Go Up Too?
The last sitting of the House of Representatives for 2018 took place in Belmopan and generally, the members were in good form. A number of issues came up, but we [...]

PM Says Fuel Increase is Due to World Market Prices
In responding to Briceño’s concerns, PM Barrow attributed the fluctuating cost of fuel acquisition to prices on the international market, anticipating that the next shipment of fuel to Belize may [...]

Said Musa Pans Vital Stats Unit
The Vital Statistics Unit remains under intense public scrutiny, following the termination of four employees last week who were found to have aided in the falsification of a birth certificate [...]

Amendments to IBC Act ahead of December Deadline
The special sitting of the House of Representatives earlier today focused primarily on the passage of two bills: the Income and Business Tax Amendment Bill, as well as the International [...]

Income and Business Tax Amendment Bill Passes Third Reading
After a lengthy adjournment to discuss the matter in committee, the House resumed the session at which time PM Barrow rose to move a third reading of the Income and [...]

The Talanoa Dialogue: What Does it Mean for Belize and the Other SIDS?
COP 24 is just a few days away from wrapping up and one of its big events that culminated today in Poland is the Talanoa Dialogue. It is a mechanism [...]

Belize Accepts Chairmanship of AOSIS
Belize has accepted the chairmanship of the Alliance of Small Island States. This week, during the COP24 in Katowice, Poland, Ambassador Lois Young accepted the leadership from the Maldives during [...]

I.C.J. Lecture Series Concludes With Heated Debate
Sponsored by the University of Belize and the Social Sector Senators, the I.C.J. Lecture Series concluded on Tuesday night at Saint Catherine’s Academy Auditorium. Well known and respected historian and [...]

An Update on Proposed Diaspora Bill
Caribbean Shores Area Rep Kareem Musa has been busy drafting a piece of legislation that if passed will see Diaspora Belizeans participating in the April 2019 I.C.J. referendum.  He was [...]

Miss Universe Belize Ready for the Prelims
Ninety-four representatives from countries around the world are in Bankok, Thailand, for the Miss Universe Pageant.  They have been there for about a week, preparing for the final competition which [...]

Party Politics and Water Bill Collection in Seine Bight
Is party politics being played with the collection of water bills in Seine Bight Village?  According to Stann Creek West Area Representative Rodwell Ferguson, he had approached Junior Minister of [...]

Cayo South Experiencing Water Woes
In Cayo South, residents of Armenia, St. Margaret’s and Unitedville are also experiencing a water crisis.  They are having difficulty accessing potable water.  According to Area Representative Julius Espat, despite [...]

LOVE FM

Jane Usher Passes Away
And now from a soul who barely had a chance to live, to a woman who lived well for over a century. Jane Ellen Usher was born on the fifth of September, 1917 and she passed away at 5:05 this morning at age 101. She served the PUP as a Cabinet member of Health and …

Belize Cancer Society to open Satellite Treatment Center
The Belize Cancer Society was formed twenty-years ago to support those diagnosed with cancer and spread awareness about the debilitating disease. Yesterday, the Belize Cancer Society held it 19th Annual General Meeting where they discussed pertinent issues and elected a new executive board. Love news spoke with Heather Reneau, the Senior Administrator of the Belize …

Government amends Income and Business Tax Act
Following that moment of silence, it was back to regular parliamentary session at the House. The Government introduced four bills, three of which it pushed through all stages for approval. The bills centered on taxes, particularly as it pertains to amendments to laws to comply with pressures brought upon the Government by the European Union …

Government seeks to amend law governing International Business Companies
A third bill, the International Business Companies (Amendment) Bill was also tabled. Last year, Belize joined the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD’s) “inclusive framework” on base erosion and profit shifting (BEPS). The Prime Minister said a review of Belize’s international business companies’ tax regime under this framework found quote, “tremendous fault”. The Prime …

Family desperate to find loved one
As each day goes by, the family of 23-year-old Anisha Young fears the worst. Young has been missing since Sunday morning following a staff party which she attended. Today, the family continued their search not in homes, but in desolate areas off the highway. Late this evening, they heard the police would have released Young’s …

International Business Companies to be exempted from paying stamp duties
The second, shorter, bill tabled was the Stamp Duties (Amendment) Bill which seeks to exempt International Business Companies from paying stamp duties if they do no own property in the country. Rt.Hon.Dean Barrow, Prime Minister: “What it does, the objective of it it’s indeed to be read in conjunction with the IBC amendment bill to …

MARINE PROTECTED AREAS WORKSHOP BRINGS STAKEHOLDERS TOGETHER
An important workshop that brought together managers and stakeholders of various marine protected areas from the region took place in Toledo. The organizers said that their communication has led to collaborative efforts in Honduras, Belize and Mexico. Toledo correspondent Paul Mahung reports. Paul Mahung, Toledo Correspondent: “Managers from Marine Protected Areas Network Gulf and Caribbean …

Will Belizeans Abroad be allowed to Vote in the Referendum?
Earlier this year, the long-awaited re-registration process commenced and one of the requirement was that persons had to be living at their present address for at least two-months. This was met with much disdain since it automatically disqualify those living in the diaspora. However, there is a plan to table a bill in the National …

Leaders of the Nation mourn the passing of Jane Usher
At today’s Special Sitting of the House, Prime Minister Dean Barrow and Leader of the Opposition John Briceno opened the session with a moment of silence and spoke of Usher’s passing. Rt.Hon.Dean Barrow, Prime Minister: “Ms.Jane who was of course not just a parliamentarian and a minister of government but indeed an institution. We talk …

City Mayor speaks about the Passing of Jane Usher
The official funeral service is scheduled for Tuesday, December 18th. On behalf of the PUP, a speech was conveyed by Linsford Castillo, the Party’s Secretary General. Another heartfelt speech was delivered on behalf of the City by Mayor Bernard Wagner. Bernard Wagner, Mayor of Belize City: “The Belize City Council joins the family of Dr.Jane …

Toddler drowns in Bucket
Tragedy has occurred for a family as a toddler drowned in a bucket. 11 month old Marianne Vasquez did not live to see her second birthday as her mother, 24 year old Marina Torres told police she found the child unresponsive...

Mrs. Jane Usher passes away
Love News has received word of the passing of a Belizean icon Mrs. Jane Usher, Senior JP, CBE at the age of 101. Mrs. Jane as she is affectionately known passed away at 5:05 this morning. Dr. Usher who was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by Galen University played a significant role in the development of the Holy Redeemer Credit Union (HRCU). In March 2017, the US Embassy recognized Dr. Jane Ellen Mary Usher as the Embassy’s Woman of the Year 2017 for her life-long contributions to economic empowerment and dedicated public service. The award, recognizing, quote “the achievements of remarkable Belizean women and celebrates the honorable causes to which the awardees devote their lives” The Management and Staff of RSV Ltd. extend condolences to the family and friends of the late Mrs. Jane Usher.

The Reporter

Ms. JANE USHER DIED
The Reporter has confirmed that Jane Usher, CBE passed away this morning. The founder of the credit union movement in Belize and former Minister of Government was 101 years old...

BABY FOUND DEAD IN BUCKET
An 11 month old baby allegedly drowned in a pigtail bucket on Tuesday night. According to reports, just before 9:00pm Marina Torres, a resident of Belama, was in her kitchen ...

BODY OF RUDY MORALES FOUND
The Reporter has been able to confirm that the body of Rudy Morales has been found by Coast Guard divers near Cerros. Authorities are currently recovering it and will then ...

Breaking Belize News

Anny Young still missing
The family of twenty-three-year-old Anisha “ Anny” Young is hoping for her safe return home. Young […]

Mayor Wagner urges Pier One to re-adjust its model
On Friday night Asher Saunders, 20, was murdered at Pier One Bar and Grill in Belize […]

Two men plead guilty to manslaughter
On Monday, Roberto Rodriguez, 21, and Clive Geban, 25, pleaded guilty to manslaughter before Justice Collin […]

Adam Meighan remanded for rape
Ladyville resident, Adam Meighan, has been accused of the rape of a forty-nine-year-old American woman. Yesterday […]

Electricity rates to increase by January
Earlier this week, Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) dropped a bombshell by signaling an increase in rates. […]

Police report: Rudy Morales drowns at sea
Earlier this week we reported that five Corozal men were lost at sea after their boat […]

Bullet Tree residents concerned over abandoned vehicle
Bullet Tree residents are seeking the public’s assistance in locating the owner or person responsible for abandoning […]

Caneros protest for better sugar roads
The sugar crop season is scheduled for opening tomorrow. However, all is not well for some […]

Police detain one man after robbery and shootout in Belize city
Police are investigating a robbery that occurred yesterday in Belize city. Two employees of Nazir Cuello reported […]

Eleventh-month-old baby drowns in bucket
Police are investigating a report of an infant who drowned in a bucket of water. Last night […]

PUP extends condolences to Jane Usher family
The People’s United Party (PUP) today extended their condolences to the family and friends of Jane Usher […]

Dickie Bradley: “PUP and UDP are the biggest gangs in this country.”
Last night, a debate on the pros and cons of going to the International Court of […]

Baby, 11 months, drowns in Belize City
Belize City police are investigating the death of an11-month-old infant. Information to BBN is that […]

Jane Usher, Founder of the Credit Union Movement in Belize passes away
This morning, the founder of the credit union movement in Belize, Jane Usher passed away. At […]

The Only Book You’ll Ever Need on Belize
Launched to rave reviews and already a bestseller, The Ultimate Belize Bucket List is available from FriesenPress, Amazon, Barnes and […]

International Sources

Leading Belize Telecoms, Mobile and Broadband Market Status, Trends, Segmentation and Analysis Report Forecast -2022
Belize government pays final instalment to secure BTLOne the smaller countries in Central America, Belize in many respects has closer affinities with English speaking countries of the Caribbean than with its immediate neighbours. Belize’s fixed-line teledensity and mobile penetration remain lower than in neighbouring countries. This is a legacy of insufficient market competition and underinvestment telecoms services, exacerbated by lax managerial standards within the incumbent telco Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL). However, BTL has recently adopted a reforming strategy under the moniker of ‘New BTL’, aiming to transform itself at all levels into an effectively competitive operator more commercially minded and focussed on cheaper pricing and customer retention. The company has undertaken significant investment in infrastructure, launching an LTE-A service at the end of 2016 and in mid-2017 completing a submarine cable to Ambergris Caye, enabling it to launch an FttP service in San Pedro.

The endurance of the Mayan people
The Maya civilizations of Central America have long fascinated Westerners, especially those intrigued by esoteric and mystical ideas. Mayan prophecies about the end of the world circulated widely in North Amer­ica back in 2012. Popular interest is often whetted by reports that this great civilization, with mighty cities and temples, vanished suddenly and mysteriously. Speculative television documentaries regularly explore that mystery. But the resolution of the mystery is quite plain: far from disappearing, the Maya people are still very much present, living where they did in those days of ancient glory, and the vast majority of them practice Christianity, if sometimes in controversial forms.

Del Monte Fiesta Corn recalled due to under-processing
Del Monte Foods has announced a recall of 64,242 cases of Fiesta Corn Seasoned with Red and Green Peppers due to under-processing. These deviations were part of the commercial sterilization process and could result in contamination by spoilage organisms or pathogens, which could lead to life-threatening illness if consumed. There have been no reports of illness associated with these products to date. No other production codes or products are affected by this recall. The products subject to recall are 15.25-ounce (432g) cans with the following UPC number printed on the label: 24000 02770. The product was distributed to multiple distributors and retail locations in 25 US states and 12 international locations, including Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Haiti, Guyana, Aruba, Panama, Saint Lucia and Suriname.

Videos

December 12, 2018

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Specials and Events

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

The San Pedro Sun

Belize Hosts Meeting of the Council of Ministers of Health of Central America and Dominican Republic
Belize is hosting the 49th Ordinary Meeting of the Council of Ministers of Health of Central America and the Dominican Republic (COMISCA) December 6th and 7th, at The Placencia Hotel and Resort, in Placencia village. Topics to be discussed include Executive Report of the Secretariat for COMISCA for second Semester 2018; advancements in the process of Health Regulations within the framework of SICA; proposed Health Agenda for Central America and Dominican Republic; presentation of Regional Strategic Plan for the Prevention of Adolescent Pregnancy in the region; Strategic Plan for Health Promotion, 2019-2025, among other important topics.

PLB semifinals begin: San Pedro Pirates lose 4-1 against Verdes F.C
The San Pedro Pirates hosted Verdes F.C at the Ambergris Stadium in San Pedro Town for the first round of the Premiere League of Belize (PLB) semifinals 2018 on Saturday, December 8th. The island team fought hard to win their first semifinal match against Verdes F.C but fell short to the visitors. For the San Pedro Pirates to advance to the finals, they will have to shut-out the Verdes F.C at least 4-0. For the second round of the semifinals, the San Pedro Pirates F.C will be traveling to San Ignacio Town to face Verdes F.C on Wednesday, December 12th. The game is scheduled to start at 7:30PM at the Norman Broaster Stadium. For more information on how to accompany the Pirates as a fan, you can contact 623-0772.

Ambergris Today

Belize Cultural Wedding Listed On Belief Awards: Best Wedding Of 2018
The ones who already got married can confirm this: having a good wedding planner makes all the difference when it comes to reliving your stress and managing tasks for the "big day". Luckily, there are countless professionals who can help you with that around the world– but what if you could hire an awarded and certified wedding planner? That is not only possible but also pretty easy to find – the Belief Wedding Planners, an international community for top professionals in the industry, selects twice a year the best weddings around the world. And the results are utterly inspiring! The Belief Awards unveils a carefully-chosen collection of top-class wedding around the world. On the 10th edition, more than 500 entries, from 26 counties, were received – it was the biggest edition so far. 27 wedding planners, from 19 countries (5 continents - Asia, Europe, South America, North America and Africa), made to the final cut.

Misc Belizean Sources

Book Launch of Mr. Tony Rath's "Images of Ambergris Caye"
You are invited to attend the official book launch and presentation at the Parham Plaza Hotel in San Pedro Town. Join us at 10:00 AM on Wednesday December 19, 2018, Mr. Tony Rath shall be releasing his latest work “Images of Ambergris Caye”. A new series by Cubola Productions. Get your signed copy at a discounted price.

HUNAB KU
Hunab Ku is a Colonial period Yucatec Maya reduce term meaning "The One God". The earliest known publicly available written reference to the term "Hunab Ku" (which translates as "Sole God" or "Only God") appears in the 16th century Diccionario de Motul, where "Hunab-ku" is identified as "the only living and true god, also the greatest of the gods of the people of Yucatan. He had no form because they said that he could not be represented as he was incorporeal". The term also appears in the Book of Chilam Balam of Chumayel . The term Hunab Ku is unknown in any pre-Conquest inscriptions in Maya writing. Hunab Ku was closely associated with an indigenous creator Itzamna, in an effort to make use of religious syncretism. Hunab Ku is believed to be a reduce term and Christian concept of "One God" .

And its a wrap... BHA Biannual Meeting 2018!
The Belize Hotel Association held its Biannual Meeting on Friday, December 7, from 1:00PM- 5:00PM at the Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza in Belize City. Almost one hundred persons attended this prestigious event including members of the BHA Board , BHA Members and other Tourism Stakeholders. Also in attendance were Mrs. Karen Bevans, Director of Tourism, Ms. Karen Pike, Director of Marketing, of the BTB and Mr. John Burgos, Executive Director of the BTIA. Keynote speaker at the event was Mrs. Stacy Cox, the CEO of the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA). Mrs. Cox is also the President of the Caribbean Society of Hotel Association Executives, (CSHAE), comprised of over 32 Caribbean Hotel Associations and serves on the Executive Board of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association ( CHTA).

On TreeTuesday, we highlight the Soursop tree (Annona muricata)!
Soursoup is native of tropical America and the Caribbean. The genus name Annona is from the Latin word anon, signifying “yearly harvest”, which refers to the fruit production habits of the various species in this genus. Other Annona species known in Belize are custard apple and cherimoya. This tree is small and evergreen, averaging 3-10 m in height. Mature trees have a spherical crown roughly 3.5 m in diameter. Trunks are straight with smooth, grey bark that becomes rougher with age. The tree can be further distinguished by its leathery leaves with a glossy top surface; large, yellow-green flowers with 6 fleshy, heart-shaped petals; and heart-shaped fruit covered with 6 mm long soft spines. Ripe fruits can weigh up to 7 kg.

Paint N Splash
See you this week at from 2-4pm Thursday to paint “A Navidad Sunset”.

KISS New Year's Eve Party
Are you making plans for New Years? You know it has to start with a kiss! At the Holiday Hotel. The biggest New Years Eve Party of Belize is here! Join us for our annual New Years Eve Party starting at 9PM. *Music by Caribbean Kings and DeeJay Dev and DJ Kad from Belize City! You can’t miss this the first 200 women to enter get a free Light House! *Party favors will be provided

SAN PEDRO TOWN HOSTS MAYOR'S MEETING
On Monday, December 10, 2018, The San Pedro Town Council hosted the monthly Mayor's meeting. All mayors from the different municipalities gathered at the conference room of the San Pedro Town Hall as they discussed their pending matters from their agenda. Guest appearance at the meeting was Hon. Carla Barnett, Senator and Minister of State of Government of Belize. At the end of the gathering, Mayor Daniel Guerrero presented each guest with a little gift for the holiday seasone

Launch of INVESTBelize Magazine Volume 6
The Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE) launched its Volume 6 of the Invest Belize Magazine, a signature piece which encapsulates business opportunities in Belize; under the theme, “Our Green Economy, Your Trade Opportunity”. In the continued quest to promoting long-term development, the Volume 6 magazine was printed on sustainably grown paper, with the intent to resonate sustainable and eco-friendly practices in the public and private sector.

The Sixth Edition of INVEST Belize

Commercial Fisher Folk License Renewal 2019
Reminder to all Fishers and users of the Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. Dates for Sarteneja, Copper Bank, Chunox & all other fishers from Corozal & Orange Walk - January 7th - Janaury 11th at the the Belize Fisheries Department Office in Belize City. A grace period for renewals will be in place until January 31st, 2019.

BELIZE FISHING REPORT: Dec 10, 2018
The week started with windy conditions and then we had good weather for the second half. Snook fishing around the Mangroves remains good. At the age of 84, Clare caught her first fish ever: and it was a nice sized Permit on a spinning rod! Congrats to Clare!

Recycled Christmas Tree Competition
With the help of our Toledo Field Representative, Analee Chuc, we held Oceana Belize's first Recycled Christmas Tree Competition this week. The 1st place winner was Julian Cho Technical High School and in 2nd place was Toledo Community College! We would like to thank all our participants and our many sponsors - Belize Bank, PGTV, the Belize territorial volunteers, Stacy Martin/ Asha's Culture Kitchen, BTIA PG, the Department of Environment, JICA, and the Punta Gorda Town Council. Here's a look at the creative ways they showed us that recycled materials can be beautiful too!

LOVE FM Christmas parade in San Pedro
Captain Conch and the SP BTIA will join the fun this Sunday, December 16th for the LOVE FM Christmas parade. We have secured a vehicle to carry our lighted frame from the Boat Parade (we WON second place!), and the Captain is ready to dance through the streets spreading his message, ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS A CLEAN SAN PEDRO!

Channel 7

Bus Owner Drowns On Ill-Fated Fishing Trip
He owns one of the largest bus lines in the north, but, yesterday evening, Rudy Morales was on the sea when he lost his life. The 41 year old bus owner's boat went under at the mouth of the New River - at the entrance to Corozal Bay. He and four friends and relatives were on a fishing trip. And tonight, we can confirm that his body was found this evening near Cerros - about a mile away from where the boat capsized. Our 7News team was in the area all day and Jules Vasquez has this report from when the search was ongoing - and his body had not yet been found:..

Corozal Businessman's Mysterious Murder
And, also in the Corozal District, a prominent businessman was murdered last night under very odd circumstances. Michael Arnold was shot to the head on a desolate road. Jules Vasquez has more:.. 58 year old Michael Arnold's Chrysler minivan was found here in the Baeza Layout last night at 10:40. This shattered glass - presumably from the vehicle window - marks the spot where his van was parked. He was reportedly in the passenger seat with two apparent gunshot wounds to the left side of his temple and one exit wound to the right side of the temple. A third shot is believed to have shattered the window.

Still No Sign Of Anisha, Family Fears Worst
The search continues tonight for 23 year old Anisha Young. The family says at this point it seems there is no hope in finding her alive. As we told you, she went missing early Sunday morning. She went to her staff Christmas party on Saturday night and then went to Sit and Sip with her boyfriend and three friends. They all left Sit and Sip in a taxi. The taxi dropped her friends off first and then took Young and her boyfriend home. No one has seen or heard from Young since then. This morning we caught up with her family and friends who were getting ready to search for Young. Here is more from Young's cousin. Sheree Salgado, Cousin: "According to her friends, three of her girlfriends were with her, they were dropped off first and then Anisha and her boyfriend, the taxi claims he dropped them home, yes they were the last to go home."

Mayor Tackles Pier One Problem
Last night, we told you about 20 year-old Asher Saunders who was murdered at Pier 1 Bar and Grill on Friday night. Best reports say that his murder resulted from a confrontation between two rival gangs. Police officers provide security at Pier 1, but, that still did not prevent a gunman from shooting Saunders in the head, in the middle of the club. It sent club patrons and BTL park-goers scrambling in a wave of panic. This incident has brought public heat on the management of Pier 1 with many in the public demanding that action be taken against the Club for the sake of public safety. Of course, that's because the night club adjoins BTL Park, and critics say its presence in this public space is making the park unsafe for families and children.

Robber Shoots Truck Driver, Comes Under Police Fire
This afternoon there was a commotion in the city when a water truck was robbed on Holy Emmanuel Street in the Gungulung area. Two people were in the truck, the driver and a sideman. The sideman got out to deliver ice - and the driver got jacked. But the suspect wasn't content with just that and he shot the driver in the leg - shattering the window on the passenger side. Fortunately, the sideman wasn't sitting there - he was making a delivery. Police set chase after the gunman with a vengeance and much firepower - and tracked him down all the way to Pen Road extension - where there was an explosive exchange of gunfire. This video captures the frightening report of gunshots - from the GSU:

Light Bill Gwen Up? If BEL Has Its Way
Your power company, BEL has asked the Public Utilities Commission to increase electricity rates. The company notified the PUC yesterday, that there has been significant increases in the cost of power since May 2018. They are proposing that the mean electricity rates be increased from 39.3 cents per kilowatt hour to 41.5 cents per kilowatt hour from January 1st, 2019 to June 30th, 2019. The company notes that since May higher prices from Mexico and below average production of the local hydro plans resulted in an increase in the cost of power purchased from suppliers. BEL says that it was able to use its strong financial position to temporarily absorb the 18.9 million dollar increase in costs. They note that as per PUC regulations, BEL is required to recover this increase through a rate adjustment.

Lady Justice & Man Justice
Addressing gender based violence in the social sphere through campaigns, policies and workshops is only one part of the process, dealing with such cases at court is also very important. And the Belize Judiciary along with UN Women and the Caribbean Association of Judicial Officers want to ensure that when such cases go to court that magistrates and judges fairly and justly arbitrate the matter regardless of gender, religion, sexual orientation, race, or economic status. Today the team launched what's called Justice through a Gender Lens: Gender Equality Protocol for Judicial Officers. There will be a series of training's for these judicial officers to promote this protocol. Here is more from the launch. Hon. Kenneth Benjamin, Belize's Chief Justice†"A good starting point is a discussion on gender equality. We should turn to the first preamble that appears in our constitution and it affirms the dignity of the human person and the equal and unalienable rights with which all persons of the human family are endowed by their creator."

Opposition Diaspora Bill Goes To House
Tomorrow will see the last House Meeting of the year. But It's going to be the first sitting at which PUP Area Rep. Kareem Musa is going to push for his private member's bill. As we've told you, he is hoping to get bi-partisan support to amend the Representation of the People's Act, which would allow for Belizeans living abroad to vote in the Referendum on the ICJ, which is scheduled for April 10th, 2019. He's already done all the necessary preparations for the bill, and he formally submitted it yesterday to National Assembly Clerk Eddie Webster. But, there is a potential hurdle that it must pass, for it to even be tabled tomorrow in the House of Representatives. He explained it to the press today, and he appealed to the Government at least allow the conversation to take place on the national stage:

AG Doubtful About Diaspora Bill
We also got a chance to ask the Attorney General about Musa's Private Members Bill. He's the former Speaker of the House, with knowledge of the parliamentary procedure required. And, if Parliament were to pass the bill, he would play an integral role in its implementation. He told us that from his brief look at Musa's proposed amendment, there appears to be some logistics which he thinks aren't well thought out. Here's how he explained why:

Cops Say Kyle Came At Them
Tonight, 27 year-old Kyle Chaplin, a resident of Mayflower Street in Belize City, is at the Belize Central Prison after he was taken to court for firing a weapon at police officers. 4 officers, a corporal and 3 constables, say that on Sunday, December 9th, they went through an alley near Mayflower Street, responding to reports of shots being fired. The cops say that they saw a man running away from them, and they pursued him. He temporarily gave them the slip, but according to the cops, this same man emerged a short while later, and he had a weapon in his hand. The cops say that this man fired 4 shots at them. All missed. They returned fire, and again, this assailant was able to evade them.

Alleged Ladyville Rapist To Court
Last night, we told you about 31 year-old Adam Meighan, the resident of Ladyville who police charged for raping a 49 year-old American woman in the village. Tonight, he's at the Belize Central Prison after being taken to Magistrate's Court today. He was arraigned before Magistrate Albert Hoare on 1 count of rape, and 1 count of theft. Since rape is an indictable offense, no plea was taken, and he was remanded to Prison until February 12th, 2019. The victim reported to police that she left her home in her pick-up truck when she saw Meighan walking toward her with a rusty machete in his hand. She said that she stopped her vehicle, and got out leaving the driver's side open. She wanted to ensure that the vehicle could get pass a muddy part of the road she was driving on.

Mercy! Another Machete Maim
Last night we told you about the man from St. Margaret's Village who was maimed after a bar brawl. His hand was severed from the forearm down. Well, last night in the neighboring village of Armenia, 37 year old Lucio Ruiz got it even worse, his entire arm was severed by a machete, and he got chopped all over the body. Investigations revealed that a male person attacked him while he was asleep in a hammock under his house. Police have a suspect who they are seeking.

Double Murderer "Dangalang"� Begs Court For Mercy
25 year-old Ernest "Dangalang" Thurton Jr has been on remand for 3 months awaiting a sentence for a double murder conviction. Tonight, he's back at the Belize Central Prison while he waits for Justice Adolph Lucas to decide what that sentence will be. On September 12th, Justice Lucas found him guilty in a trial without jury of the murders of Frank James and Robert Young. At today's mitigation hearing, Crown Counsel Portia Ferguson read the statement of the common-law wife of Frank James. She said that he was a hardworking man, and a good husband. She said that her health has deteriorated since her loss. The prosecutor also read the statement of Robert Young's sister, who said that his death has severely affected her and her family, and they are now robbed of their peace of mind.

Brackett Talking About The ICJ
Students from St. Catherine's Academy had their own ICJ referendum education forum today. The school invited activist Geovanni Brackett and his team to talk about why Belize should not go to the ICJ. The students seemed quite engaged in the presentation. Kalima Enriquez, Head of Humanities Dept. SCA: "What we are doing is that we are trying to present enough information about the ICJ whether the Guatemala dispute referendum to students and what we did is we presented an objective view last week so we invited members of the ICJ referendum unit and today we had a no argument and we are planning for a strong yes argument in the future, then on January 18th we are going to have student doing a debate about whether they should go to ICJ or not and we are going to have a mock election where we will try to model it exactly how the adults will be voting."

Fired For Bogus Birth Certificate
Back in July 2016, the beheading murder of Pastor Lewellyn Lucas made headline news, and William Danny Mason was later charged as the supposed murder mastermind in this heinous crime. You may also remember that part of the scandal of his connection with persons in high places was a fraudulent birth certificate. He had several assumed identities, but the authorities uncovered a fake Belizean Birth Certificate which claimed that Mason was born in Crooked Tree Village to parents James Mason, a farmer from Cooked Tree, and his common-law wife. From as far back as that time, the Prime Minister was alluding to internal investigations which indicated that 4 public officers from the Vital Statistics Unit aided in the production of this fraudulent document.

The UNCAC Audit Is In
Peyrefitte was far more expansive on the latest developments in the Government's push to implement the United Nations Convention Against Corruption. For the past few months, we've been closely following the step-by-step process that AG Peyrefitte has been following to ensure that Belize is compliant with all the mechanisms necessary to bring the anti-corruption convention into effect. Well, the international experts have inspected the country's current legislation, and in a 5,000 word executive summary, they've outlined all the gaps, and amendments they think are necessary for effective implementation. We asked the AG about that report, and he says while significant progress has been made, there still a ways to go:

The Punto Final On A Woman's Period
Period: we aren't talking about the punctuation mark, we are talking about Aunt Flo, Crimson Tide, The Big Red - Yup, that time of the month. It is not a topic openly spoken about especially around men but UNICEF along with it's partners want to bring everyone into the discussion thorough the first ever Menstrual Hygiene Management Initiative. The coordinating team conducted a year-long survey at various schools to find out how girls are dealing with their periods and also to see if boys are also learning about the cycle. It was an interesting study and the results show that there is need for more education and awareness among adolescents and increased access to basic sanitary products for girls such as pads and tampons. Here is more from the launch.

PUP Blasts BEL
Earlier on we told you about BEL's request for an increase in electricity rates. Well, the PUP says it is a dose of Christmas Cheer, UDP style. Somehow already concluding that this rate increase is already a done deal, the PUP notes, quote, "months ago, BEL had requested an increase of 7.1% in the cost per kilowatt hour, and the PUC approved a 6.24% increase which should have been in effect for 2 years. Now, just five months after, BEL is requesting another increase." End quote.

Channel 5

Missing & Presumed Dead; Where is Anisha “Annie” Young?
The family of Anisha Young continues to hope for the best, but is bracing for the worse. Today, a search party was organized by her family and went looking for [...]

Popular Corozal Businessman Found Murdered
Corozal police are tonight investigating the callous murder of Michael Arnold, a beloved figure in the community. Arnold was found with two gunshots wounds to the head on Monday night. [...]

24 Hours Later Body of Rudy Morales Found at Sea
After being missing for more than twenty-four hours, the body of prominent Corozal businessman, forty-one-year-old Rudy Morales of Morales Bus Company was found late this evening. His body was floating [...]

Will the Cost of Electricity Increase in 2019?
Brace up, because the first order of business in the New Year is an increase in the cost of electricity beginning, January first, 2019. If approved, it will be the [...]

P.U.P. Says B.E.L.’s Proposed Hike is Shameful Act of Duplicity by G.O.B.
The People’s United Party calls the hike a shameful act of duplicity on the part of both the Government of Belize and the state-owned B.E.L.  A release states that just [...]

What’s the Future of Pier One Bar?
Pier One Bar is under the radar once more; the bar is located within the B.T.L. Park, a popular venue for recreation by families. For some time, we have reported [...]

CitCo’s Part Payment for Damages to Pier One Facility
The ten-year lease to principal shareholder of Pier One, Joseph Kee, speaks to the payment of three hundred and fifty dollars monthly for rent of the overwater structure. Mayor Bernard [...]

CitCo Assisting the Young Family
Back in early November, City Council employee Samuel August Senior stole the council’s backhoe and used it to kill his mother-in-law and son when he mowed down the house they [...]

A Bill to Allow Belizeans in the Diaspora to Vote on Referendum Day
Caribbean Shores Area Representative Kareem Musa had lodged a bill which, if passed, will allow Belizeans living in the diaspora to be able to vote in the upcoming referendum on [...]

Will the Bill Be Tabled in the House on Wednesday?
Musa hopes that the bill would be tabled for first reading as soon as possible in order to allow for the necessary preparations to take place before the referendum on [...]

Adam Meighan is Arraigned for Rape of U.S. National
A Ladyville resident was taken to court this morning and arraigned for the rape and robbery of a U.S. national. The heinous crime occurred in broad daylight in the Vista [...]

Kyle Chaplin is Arraigned for Shooting at Cops
Tonight, Ghost Town area resident, twenty-seven-old Kyle Chaplin, is on remand at the Belize Central Prison after being charged with four counts of aggravated assault with a firearm upon four [...]

Gender Day at COP 24
The severity of storms in the last two years in the region has displaced and disenfranchised thousands. But did you know that women are the ones most affected by these [...]

When is the Next Super Sale Zone in Downtown Belize City?
This coming Saturday, the Belize City Council will be launching its first ever tree lighting ceremony at the Battlefield Park in downtown Belize City.  A forty-foot Christmas tree will be [...]

Marvin Mora is New N.T.U.C.B. President
The National Trade Union Congress of Belize has a new president.  Established unionist Marvin Mora succeeds Floyd Neal at the helm of the umbrella organization where he will be steering [...]

N.T.U.C.B. to Take on In-house Changes
According to Mora, a number of items were on the agenda at the AGM and among the organizations priorities is a restructuring exercise.   Marvin Mora, President, N.T.U.C.B. “There were [...]

Gender Equality Protocol Introduced in Belize’s Court System
Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin addressed the judiciary this morning at the Radisson Hotel. The CJ was among several notable speakers at the gathering on gender equality protocol which is part [...]

Menstrual Hygiene Management and You!
Many girls and women face difficulties with managing their menstruation safely.  Aside from existing taboos, the ability for women and girls to manage their periods is affected by several factors [...]

LOVE FM

Cacao Growers Association Meet to get to the chocolate of the matter
Gifting chocolates may be one way people show affection and also another way to add more calories to your diet, but before they become sugary treats, the fruit that bears them must be grown. Toledo Correspondent Paul Mahung reports on the twenty-second Cacao Growers Annual General Meeting. Paul Mahung: “The 22nd annual General meeting of …

Mora speaks about future plans of the NTUCB
Marvin Mora is the new president of the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB). Mora was elected as President at the 52nd Annual General Meeting of NTUCB held over the weekend in Corozal Town, where delegates from all ten Member Unions attended. Today, Love news caught up with the new president and learned about …

Where is Anisha Young? Three days after she goes missing her family is hoping for her safe return
23-year-old Anisha Young has been described as a very friendly and outgoing person and it has been three days since she has gone missing. Today, we found the family frantically searching for her body on the George Price Highway. Shortly, after we arrived on the scene, the families got back into their vehicles and followed …

Menstrual Hygiene Management
Menstruation occurs naturally in females; however, it has been a very taboo subject which may have hindered female effectively managing their menstrual cycle. UNICEF is hoping to change all that and as such conducted a study on menstrual hygiene management last year. Today, UNICEF launched the findings of the study at the Radisson Fort George …

Shots fired in the Mayflower area
Mayflower is one of those special neighborhoods in Belize City that has its own permanent police checkpoint. Shootings incidents had occurred in the area before. The area off Vernon Street has been the source of tension over the years with police. Over the weekend, a man escaped shortly after exchanging gunfire with the cops. CIB …

Ben the Builder Jacked at Gunpoint
Thieves are getting more brazen. Bennys, one of the larger businesses in the City was targeted by thieves late Friday evening. The police say that an armed man held up an employee at Bennys Bargain Center and stole thousands of dollars. The officer commanding CIB, Alejandro Cowo said the employee had no choice but to …

Belizean Citizens Abroad want to vote in the Referendum
PUP Caribbean Shores Area Representative and Attorney Kareem Musa launched a private members bill which he hopes will be read at the Special Sitting of the House of Representatives on Wednesday in Belmopan. He had launched the concept to assist the Belizeans Citizens Abroad association to assist them in their goal to vote in the …

Bus owner Rudy Morales’ body found 24 hours after disappearing under water at the mouth of the New River
The body of Rudy Morales has been found late this evening. Morales, the proprietor of Morales Bus Line had joined his cousin Miguel Rubio on a fishing trip on Monday afternoon as they do on a regular basis. This time they were joined for the first time by three others, including a fifteen year old …

Mayor looking for Legal ways to address Pier One Bar violence
A Friday night murder in Belize City did not occur in a gang affiliated area, but on the entertainment strip. It was only a matter of time until someone lost their life at the BTL Park at a bar which sells alcohol. Violent incidents had occurred at the Pier One bar, but none had resulted …

Belize City Mayor Plans to erect a Christmas Tree to Improve the Xmas Spirit
On the other side of the political divide, another politician is trying to spruce up the former capital for the season. Mayor Bernard Wagner told us this morning that he intends to put up a huge tree in the main area of downtown Belize City …

A cycling Criterium for the Albert Division
The UDP Area Representative for the Albert Division in Belize City is riding the all the way into the Christmas holiday. Over the weekend Tracy Taegar Panton sponsored a cycling criterium. She told Love News that it was quite successful …

Accused Murderer ‘Dangalang’ back in court
Today, Justice Adolph Lucas heard pleas for mitigation from Attorney Anthony Sylvestre and, the accused, Ernest Thurton Jr. aka “Dangalang”. On September 12, Thurton was found guilty of the murders of Frank James and Robert Young by Justice Lucas in a trial without a jury. James and Young were shot and killed on the night of October 25, 2012, in a dock yard on North Front Street …

Two more persons disappear without a trace
In the south, a 17-year-old minor from Middle Sex Village has also disappeared without a trace. The last time family members saw 17-year-old Amanda Naeli Sho was on the 9th of December. On Monday, her mother Jacoba Sho told the police that she received a call from her son Lorenzo Sho at 6 a.m. on Sunday telling her she was missing …

BEL Desires a jolt in Electricity Prices
The price of electricity may go up because on Monday, the Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) notified the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) that due to significant increases in cost of power since May 2018, the Company is proposing to increase the Mean Electricity Rate (MER) to $0.4150 per kWh for the remainder of the Annual Tariff Period January 1 to June 30, 2019 …

Cops and Robber in the Gungulung
Residents of the Gungulung area which is between the Complex building on Mahogany Street Extension and the Chetumal Bridge had some excitement this afternoon. Sometime after 1:30 p.m. shots rang out like pop shots when the police foiled a robbery. A truck was targeted and robbed …

Corozal Businessman Murdered
Police in Corozal has found the body of a prominent businessman who had ties to the free zone when it first opened. On Monday night at 10:40 p.m., officers were on a mobile patrol in the Baeza Layout Area of Corozal Town when they spotted a white Chrysler van that was parked on the left side of the road …

Amandala

Jealousy leads to chopping death of Guatemalan
Dimas Gregorio Choc, 49, a Guatemalan caretaker living on a farm in Cristo Rey, died early Saturday morning after he was reportedly chopped in his head, hands and back by Filiberto Itche, another Guatemalan living on the same farm. Both Guatemalan men were living with their wives. Police believe that Itche got into a jealous rage and inflicted the fatal wounds to his friend, after he accused him of having an affair with his wife. Both couples were hanging out, talking and drinking when the incident occurred.

Welder, 20, executed in BTL Park’s Pier 1 Bar
Asher Saunders, 20, a welder of Baghdad Street, Belize City, died after he was shot in the side of his head at about 11:30 Friday night while he was socializing with friends in the Pier 1 Bar, located at the BTL Park. A witness who doesn’t wish to be identified told Amandala that at about that time, Saunders and others were sitting at the counter in the bar when a sound like that of a firecracker erupted. Seconds later, however, the patrons in the bar realized that it was not a firecracker when those near Saunders became splattered with blood.

Woman, 23, missing after attending Christmas party
Aneshia “Anny” Young, 23, has been reported missing after she attended a workplace Christmas party on Saturday, December 8. She was reportedly last seen at 3 a.m. on the following morning, December 9, at Sit n’ Sip club, located in Newtown Barracks. Some reports over social media say that she was seen getting into a taxi with a man. Young, who is a resident of Nargusta Street, was last seen wearing a long, blue dress, as pictured. She has a brown complexion and is slim-built with a narrow face and straight, black hair. She is about 5 feet 1 inch in height.

2 plead guilty to manslaughter
Two men, Roberto Rodriguez, 21, and Clive Geban, 25, who have been accused of the grisly murder of a 60-year-old man, Ervin Moralez, in Maskall Village, Belize District, in January 2013, appeared in the Supreme Court of Justice Colin Williams this morning with their attorneys, and both men pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter. This afternoon, the two were brought back to court so that the Crown, represented by Crown Counsels Janelle Thomas-Shorter and Riis Cattouse, could read the Crown’s evidence into the court record.

Candice Miller versus Belize City Council goes into case management
Attorneys representing former Belize City Administrator, Candice Miller, and Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner were called into the chambers of Supreme Court Justice Courtenay Abel this morning, shortly after 10:00 a.m. for a case management hearing. When the parties emerged from Justice Abel’s chamber, it was disclosed that each party can file up to eight witness statements by February 1, after which there will be a another case management hearing on February 4.

Fin Sec says government will not pay CCJ-ordered refund of GST to Gegg companies
Cruise Solution and Discovery Expedition, tour companies owned by Belizean David Gegg, have had a protracted legal battle with the General Sales Tax (GST) Department that ended up at the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ). On Friday, October 12, 2018, a panel of CCJ justices ruled that the GST Department must refund Cruise Solution and Discovery Expedition the GST taxes those companies paid, because the services they provided to cruise passengers were categorized, for tax purposes, as zero-rated. The CCJ thus ordered that the GST Department refund over $400,000 that the companies had paid in taxes.

FFB Inter-District Youth knockout semifinals completed; finals in Belmopan on Saturday
The first Football Federation of Belize (FFB) sponsored National Inter-District Youth Club Championships, which got under way on November 10 with the 10 football district champions in 3 categories – U-15 Male, U-17 Male and U-17 Female – completed its knockout semifinal games this past weekend at various venues. All the semifinal games were played on Sunday, December 9; and the championship finals in all 3 categories are now scheduled to take place this Saturday at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium in Belmopan.

FFB hosting international U-17 friendly vs Guatemala on Friday at Marion Jones Complex
The Football Federation of Belize (FFB) is calling the following U-17 players to camp on Thursday, December 13. The players are to report at the FFB by 4:00 p.m., where they will prepare for the In The GAP INSTITUTE friendly match against Athletico Ariga FC of Guatemala. The game will be played on Friday, December 14, at the Marion Jones Sports Complex at 3:00 p.m.

Ahmadiyyah Basketball League wins 2 Gold Medals at tournament in Chetumal
Over this past weekend, December 7-9, the Ahmadiyyah Basketball League competed in the COPA International Gatorade Tournament in Chetumal, Mexico. They took two teams, U18 and an Open team, and won Gold for both categories. According to Umar Akbar, one of the team’s organizers and their photographer, they started preparing for this tournament well in advance by first choosing the team from a pool of players that were interested in travelling abroad. They held an audition from them, and chose the best players to be a part of the team.

Peace Cup games cancelled due to weather
The sun came out brightly on Saturday morning, but reports are that from midday on Friday the National Sports Council had already cancelled all football games for Saturday at the MCC Grounds following heavy rains on successive days. The field was in good shape for the Sunday afternoon Inter-District U-15 semifinal; but CYDP Peace Cup fans will have to wait until this coming Saturday for their much anticipated quarterfinals 2nd leg matches.

Editorial: Did our leaders blink in 1981? Will Belizeans in 2019?
As the discussions and debates pick up more momentum towards the referendum date of April 10, 2019, it has been remarked by some vocal advocates of the “No” position that they are not being given equal status in the publicly sponsored presentations, so that the “Yes” advocates are having more prominence and opportunity to address the citizenry. It has been mentioned that on one occasion the “No” person was sandwiched between two individuals promoting the “Yes” argument. In court, both sides are given equal opportunity to present their case – the prosecution and the defence. In the House of Representatives, both the government and the “Queen’s Loyal Opposition” are given their say; although the majority side always gets its way. But the people can listen and make up their own minds; and eventually they get their chance to have THEIR WAY on the next election date.

Clear cut YES to ICJ victory in PG
Richard Bradley, who represented the NO side in Punta Gorda on Saturday night, said that Ambassador Rosado lied (a very hostile word) when he said, in response to a question about our not keeping the border line between us and Guatemala clean, that it isn’t done because Guatemala doesn’t recognize our western border. Ambassador Rosado said that created a little difficulty because it should be a joint thing. Bradley said that Rosado lied. Bradley said that the British used to keep the border line clean. What Richard Bradley said was the truth, but he was talking apples and Rosado was talking oranges.

Miss Afro 1973, Dorla Lewis, on a visit 45 years later
During the black consciousness awakening period that swept through the colonial society of British Honduras in the late 1960’s to early 1970’s, when the cultural group the United Black Association for Development (UBAD) was promoting its “black is beautiful” cultural revolution, there were no difficulties finding beautiful sisters to participate in UBAD’s “Miss Afro Honduras” beauty pageant, which was the organization’s answer to the Queen of the Bay and the Miss Belize pageants, which were usually held. The first winner of the first Miss Afro Honduras pageant was Sheldon Vasquez.

In absence of his body, Milo Paz’s family unable to find closure
Six days after he left his home on San Pedro, on October 9, word came out of Panama that Milo Paz, a veteran pilot of Tropic Air, had died in a plane crash in that country. His family in San Pedro then made arrangements to retrieve his body from Panama. It has been exactly two months now, but the closure that Paz’s family would have had if his body had been returned to Belize for burial has been eluding them.

2 women shot; 1 dies
Two women tragically became victims of gun violence last night, December 6, with one of them losing her life. Jennis August, 35, is currently in a stable condition at the Western Regional Hospital (WRH), while the body of her friend, Brenda Castellanos, 25, lies in the morgue. The incident occurred around 7:16 p.m. while August and Castellanos were socializing in their yard on Bishop Martin Street. The two shared a home on the property, with Castellanos living in the lower flat and August in the upper flat.

Benny’s on Freetown robbed of almost $5,000
A cashier was held up at gunpoint and robbed at about 4:30 Saturday evening at the Benny’s Bargain Center on Freetown Road, Belize City, and the bandit got away with over $4,765 in cash. Police said that Nathaniel Perera, 22, was at the store with a bank deposit bag containing money to be deposited when an armed bandit held him up. Perera became fearful for his life, and the bandit stole the money bag and ran.

American woman robbed of $8,000 after being raped
An American woman was raped and robbed while she was about to leave her home in Ladyville on Thursday, December 6, at about 9 a.m. The woman, 49, told police that as she was getting into her car, a dark-skinned man armed with a machete approached her. The man, she told police, knocked her to the ground and then raped her before stealing an envelope containing $8,200 in different denominations, which was in the vehicle.

Fin Sec says government will not pay CCJ-ordered refund of GST to Gegg companies
Cruise Solution and Discovery Expedition, tour companies owned by Belizean David Gegg, have had a protracted legal battle with the General Sales Tax (GST) Department that ended up at the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ). On Friday, October 12, 2018, a panel of CCJ justices ruled that the GST Department must refund Cruise Solution and Discovery Expedition the GST taxes those companies paid, because the services they provided to cruise passengers were categorized, for tax purposes, as zero-rated.

The Reporter

Another Suspected Drug Plane
Two Guatemalans found near Graham Creek in the Toledo District were today charged for illegal entry. The men, identified as Jorge Humberto Vasquez Reyes and Wilson Wilfred Vasquez Reyes, were picked up by a BDF patrol stationed at the Sarstoon Forward Operating Base on Friday...

MAJOR SHOOTOUT IN GUNGULUNG
The Reporter has received this footage of a shootout between elements of the Police and what we are told are persons who tried to rob a chicken delivery truck in the Gungulung area of Belize City. There is confirmation that Police have detained one person. We’re trying to get more information.

GUAT’S WITH UZI MACHINE GUN ‘CHARGED & FINED’
In October 2 Guatemalan Police Officers Jose Juan Garcia Palma and Armando Hub Pop were arrested at the Western Border after Police searched their vehicle and found an UZI. The men were charged for Keeping a Prohibited Firearm and for ammunition without a license.

Anisha Young Missing – UPDATE
The family of Anisha ‘Anny’ Young, missing since early Sunday morning, today organized a search for her, starting near the home on Nargusta Street where she lived with her boyfriend. Sources tell the Reporter that Anny last posted on Facebook at 4:16am Sunday morning, but something in her post alarmed family members.

PAST GOVERNMENTS STOLE OPPORTUNITIES
BY: Nefreterry Marin. The blatant corruption Belize has suffered since Independence has put our economic development, ethical values and justice at very high risk and has undermined our entire democratic process. The poor and the working class are the ones at the bottom of the destabilized, crumbling pyramid economy, created by corrupt politicians. It is they who suffer the harmful daily effects of political corruption. It is they who we must now protect.

RUDY MORALES MISSING AFTER BOAT CAPSIZES
The Belize Coast Guard is searching for a man missing at sea. On Monday night at 8:30 Coast Guard personnel were called to the Corozal Bay near the entrance to the mouth of the New River.

COROZAL BUSINESSMAN MICHAEL ARNOLD MURDERED
Well known Corozal businessman Michael Arnold has been murdered. On Monday night just before 11:00 Police on patrol in the Santiago Baeza Layout found a white van parked on the side of the road.

Breaking Belize News

Man charged for shooting at police in Ghost Town
Belize City police today charged Kyle Chaplin, 27, with four counts of aggravated assault. This is […]

Two Guatemalan charged for illegal entry
Confirmed reports are that two Guatemalan men were charged with illegal entry into Belize. They have […]

PUP blasts GOB for proposed hike in electricity rates!
The Opposition People’s United Party (PUP) today issued a statement condemning a proposed hike in electricity […]

Suspected robber nabbed by police in Lake I
Quick police response has led to the apprehension of a suspected robber. Sometime this afternoon, an […]

Belize accepts chairmanship of AOSIS
Caribbean Climate today reported that Belize has accepted the chairmanship of the Alliance of Small Island […]

Man chopped multiple times while sleeping; In a critical condition at the hospital
Belmopan police are investigating a chopping incident that occurred this morning. Around 2:15 am, police went […]

Police issue official report on boat accident in Corozal
Police have issued an official report on a boat accident that happened last night in Corozal. […]

Guatemalan man busted with uzi pleads guilty
Two Guatemalan policemen who were jailed for entering Belizean territory with one of their service weapons […]

Man found murdered inside vehicle in Corozal; Police are investigating
Corozal police are investigating a murder that occurred lastnight in that vicinity. According to reports, yesterday […]

Caretaker missing in Orange Walk
Teresa Obrien, 71, of Trial Farm Village reported to authorities that since December 7th, 2018, her […]

NTUCB holds executive election
This National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) elected a new executive over the weekend. […]

Stolen vehicle found burnt!
A vehicle that was reported stolen was found burnt near Hattieville on Saturday. Lisa Stanford, […]

More Education – Less Vilification To ICJ or NOT to ICJ
The views expressed in this article are those of the writer and not necessarily those of Breaking Belize […]

Kyle Chaplin detained for shooting at police in “GhostTown”
Last night police responded to shots being fired on Mayflower street in Belize city in the […]

Benny’s Bargain Center robbed
On Friday around 4:35 p.m. there was an armed robbery inBelize city. Nathaniel Perera, an […]

Police: No confirmation that Milo Paz died in plane crash
On Friday, Mrs. Ermijines Paz of San Pedro town reported that her husband, Jose “Milo” Paz […]

Police issue missing person report for Anny Young
Authorities have issued a missing person report for Aneshia ‘Anny’ Young, 23, of Belize City. Young […]

Mental health patient dies in traffic mishap
On Friday night there was a fatal road traffic accident reported in the west. Belize City […]

Kareem Musa proposes bill to allow Belizeans abroad to vote in ICJ referendum
Yesterday, the People’s United Party (PUP) Area Representative for Caribbean Shores Constituency, Kareem Musa, made a […]

Man loses arm after dispute at bar in St. Margaret
Sometime around 1:00 yesterday morning, Belmopan police visited the Western Regional Hospital. There they met, Jose […]

Blogs

Behind the scenes of an island icon: PepperOni’s
We got to live our dream when we went behind the scenes and into the hallowed kitchen of an island icon: PepperOni’s Pizza. Established in 2001, PepperOni’s has been the island’s go-to pizza place ever since, offering amazing cheesy, meaty, saucy, bready goodness to the masses. From its humble beginnings inside a trailer to its expanded location featuring outdoor seating (both covered and uncovered), and a nice big kitchen, PepperOni’s has evolved, but one thing that has not changed is its delicious recipe!

Stuff that Washes Up on the Beaches of Ambergris Caye
Take a walk up the beach on Ambergris Caye and you are bound to find a few things. A tiny shell, a piece of drift wood, a plastic bottle or…maybe a cool looking piece of coral. But here are some of the more regular visitors on your shores. Pumice – You can almost always find a scrap or two of this floating rock – but there are certain times when it is all over the beach. Since pumice is a volcanic rock – and there are no volcanoes in Belize – where is it coming from? The short answer is…a volcano. And since it floats, it could be coming from anywhere around the world – probably volcanoes deep below the sea. But here is a picture of the volcanic islands/active volcanoes of the Caribbean… Sea beans: Also called drift seeds. These are my new sea-obsession. They are seeds from around the world that can float short or long distances. The most famous is the coconut. Here is a website devoted to all things seabean.

A Brief History About Corozal's Past
The Central Plaza of Corozal Town has been used for various activities and events since the town was founded in 1849. Social, cultural, sporting events and even a brief occupation in 1870 by Marcus Canul, General of the Ecaiche Maya, have made space a gathering place for Corozalenos'. In 1955 Hurricane Janet dramatically transformed the Central Plaza. Longboard buildings called "barracks" were built to house the homeless while Mayor Felipe Santiago Ricalde had the daunting task of rebuilding the town. In 1965 Honourable Santiago Ricalde inaugurated the Corozal Town Central Park; he honored the fallen doctors and nurses with a plaque inside the park's fountain. The fountain was originally donated by the Mexican Government to the people of Belize City just before Hurricane Hattie.

International Sources

Belize on Travel Pulse's 25 Places to Travel in December
Belize has made quite a few must see lists this year, the latest being on Travel Pulse's 25 Places to Travel in December. While they forget to mention Caracol, Xunantunich, Cahal Pech, Barton Creek, and scores of other sites around Cayo, they specifically mention the San Ignacio Resort Hotel, and praise it for its wildlife and rainforest feel. "From exploring the ancient Maya Ruins; cave tubing and diving amidst lush rainforests and majestic waterfalls; touring the Great Blue Hole, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; and snorkeling in crystal clear waters Dec. is a great time to visit this country. Other adventurous activities offered include zip lining, hiking, canoeing and more, making it an ideal destination for those who like to stay active during a vacation. Also good to know is this country is home to incredible diversity, perfect for lovers of nature and wildlife.

BELIZE TO CHAIR AOSIS
Belize has taken over the chairmanship of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), a coalition of small island and low-lying coastal countries that share similar development challenges and concerns. Belize Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Lois Young, who accepted the chairmanship during the AOSIS Ministerial meeting on the side-lines of the 24th Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 24) said her country was taking over the leadership “with a profound recognition of the challenges ahead. Belize will officially assume the post in January 2019 from the Maldives. Belize will hold the chairmanship for two years to be followed by Antigua and Barbuda in 2021.

Caribbean News Roundup For Wednesday Dec. 12, 2018
Here are the top headlines making news from across the Caribbean for today, Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2018.

Videos

December 11, 2018

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

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

The San Pedro Sun

International law experts, diplomats, and foreign press encourage Belize to head to the ICJ
In April of 2019, Belizeans will have the opportunity to decide if the International Court of Justice (ICJ) will settle the Guatemalan territorial claim by voting in a nationwide referendum. Taking the dispute to the ICJ is strongly supported by international law experts, diplomats and even members of the international press. To better inform the Belizean public on the process, The San Pedro Sun was part of a delegation of Belizean media houses who traveled to the ICJ located at The Hague, Netherlands from November 25th to the 30th. After a week of discussions with scholars of the ICJ process, they all encouraged Belizeans to take advantage of this opportunity and to trust the ICJ.

‘Belize Navidad!’- Ramon’s Village wins 2018 San Pedro Holiday Boat Parade
The ‘Belize Navidad’ vessel, sponsored by Ramon’s Village Resort, was the top prize winner at this year’s Holiday Lighted Boat Parade. The festive event was held on Saturday, December 8th, with 12 boats lighting the windward coast of San Pedro Town. Hundreds of spectators came out to the beach to admire the lighted boats between the parade route from Wayo’s Beach Bar to Crazy Canucks Beach Bar. The event ended at Sandbar, where an award ceremony handed out over $10,000 in giveaways.

U.S. Presidential Determination with Respect to Foreign Government Efforts to Combat Trafficking in Persons
President Trump on November 29 granted a partial waiver to Belize from U.S. foreign assistance restrictions for those countries rated as Tier 3 in the U.S. 2018 Trafficking in Persons Report. Per the U.S. Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) of 2000, as amended, the Department of State reports on and ranks the efforts of foreign governments to combat human trafficking in an annual Trafficking in Persons Report. Those nations rated as Tier 3 are subject to specific foreign assistance restrictions unless the President waives those restrictions. Of the 22 countries ranked Tier 3 in the 2018 Trafficking in Persons Report, five countries, including Belize, received either full or partial waivers.

Ambergris Today

Belizean Selected For Top Position On The Commonwealth Youth Council
It looked like the participants of this year's Holiday Boat Parade bought out all the Christmas lights in town. The boats were all lit up with colorful lights and cheerful with music, song and dance! The Holiday Boat Parade boasted 11 boat entries, double that of last year. That meant double the light, double the fun, double the Christmas cheer at this year's annual event. Ramon's Village pulled out all the stops once again and secured the big win with two boat entries. Their Belize Navidad with Santa Claus, Christmas trees, snowmen and reindeers took first place and their second boat took fourth place with a Nativity Scene. Fun Boats like ACES's 'Merry Crocmas' won Best Charity Boat while Kids in Action boat entertained with Sponge Bob Square Pants and Patrick Star. They took the prize for Best Small Boat.

More Christmas Lights Than Ever At Holiday Boat Parade
Young Belizean – Jordan Craig – now serves on the prestigious Commonwealth Youth Council for the period 2018 to 2020. The Commonwealth Youth Council (CYC) is the official voice of the young people across all Commonwealth Nations. The Council’s ail is to further advance the your development agenda by integrating young people into the development work of the Commonwealth at national, regional and Pan-commonwealth levels. It also provides a sustainable platform for unified engagement with decision makers and youth-led development initiatives.

Misc Belizean Sources

Speaker of the House of Representatives of Belize attends the 36th Session of the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly
Cotonou, Benin. December 10, 2018. The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Honourable Laura Tucker- Longsworth led Belize’s delegation to the 36th Session of the Africa Caribbean Pacific – European Union (ACP-EU) Joint Parliamentary Assembly, following the 52nd Session of the ACP Parliamentary Assembly. From 28th to 30th November 2018, the Honourable Madam Speaker participated in the 52nd Session of the ACP Parliamentary Assembly. During the meeting of the Committee on Political Affairs, Madam Speaker relayed an update on the Belize-Guatemala process and the latest developments on Belize’s preparations towards its referendum in April 2019.

Corozal Tree Lighting
Mayor Rigo Vellos and the Corozal Town Council extend their most sincere gratitude to all those persons who made the Tree Lighting a great success. Thank you Corozal!!! Together we make things happen!!!!

Sacred Heart Interact Club Delivers Toys
The Sacred Heart College Interact Club delivered the toys they collected to the kids in Calla Creek yesterday. There were a lot of smiles. Thanks, Interact, for making their Christmas a little brighter!

Help 200 children of Toledo attend Bioblitz
Since 2015, Ya'axche Conservation Trust has held its annual BioBlitz event for students and teachers of the Toledo district. This event focuses on raising conservation awareness through participation in biodiversity monitoring techniques. Events in the past have included teaching students to identify birds, mammals, and fresh water invertebrates, tree identification, camera trapping, and distinguishing features by microscope. Ya'axche hopes to reach 200 students at this year's Bioblitz event.

'Executive Summary' of the first cycle of review of the existing anti-corruption legal framework of Belize
iew of the legal and institutional framework of Belize in the context of implementation of the United Nations Convention against Corruption Belize is a sovereign parliamentary constitutional monarchy with Queen Elizabeth II as its titular head, represented by the Governor General. Belize became an independent State on 21 September 1981. The legal system is derived from English common law and statutes. The Belize Constitution (Constitution) is the supreme law of Belize and any law that is inconsistent with the Constitution shall be void to the extent of the inconsistency (art. 2). The Caribbean Court of Justice serves as Belize’s final appellate court for civil and criminal matters.Belize acceded to the United Nations Convention against Corruption on 12 December 2016. With regard to the incorporation of international law into domestic law, Belize follows a strictly dualist approach. All of the provisions of the Convention have not yet been incorporated into municipal law.

POSTPONED FOR THE 2ND TIME: Lecture Series on the ICJ Referendum & ICJ in Corozal
Lecture Series on the ICJ Referendum & ICJ scheduled for Monday, December 10th at St. Francis Xavier R.C. School Auditorium in Corozal has been postponed for the second time. Panelists were a no show and the audience at around 8:00 p.m. were around 14 people. Our questions to the ICJ panelists would have been:- "Who are the Spanish to English/English to Spanish translators in this entire ICJ process? What are their qualifications and what are their nationalities?"

The U.S. Embassy is seeking eligible and qualified applicants for Supervisory Human Resources Specialist
his position is being advertised with the experience for education substitution option. Based on qualifications, applicants need only apply for one of the two available vacancies, Belmopan-2018-18 or Belmopan-2018-18-S. Please review the qualifications requirements for each vacancy before applying.

2018 is a very special year for us at Ya'axché Conservation Trust and our partners in conservation – celebrating 20 years!
In 1998, Fauna & Flora International (FFI) started working with the Ya’axché Conservation Trust (Ya’axché) – then a small, newly formed community organisation – to protect this important area. Our partnership began with the purchase of two vital parcels of land at the heart of the Maya Golden Landscape. These sites were connected to areas already under protection, but were threatened with conversion to citrus and shrimp farms. Purchasing these plots laid the foundations of our conservation efforts across the landscape, none of which would have been possible without the generosity and foresight of the Arcadia Fund – a charitable fund of Lisbet Rausing & Peter Baldwin – who partnered with FFI in 1998 to establish the Halcyon Land & Sea Fund to protect places of exceptional conservation value in perpetuity.

AH BOLON TZACAB
Ah Bolon Tzacab means "The leaf-Nose" it represents agriculture,Vegetation and regeneration . Also spelled as Ah Bolon Dz'acab .

A MAYA CROSS IN A VILLAGE IN ORANGE WALK AND LOS ELEGIDOS DE DIOS BY ALFONSO ROJAS
LOS ELEGIDOS DE DIOS(Etnografia de los Mayas de Quintana Roo) by Alfonso Rojas. A very interesting reading from the Yucatec Maya rebels in Quintana Roo(Mex). When the Maya where losing the Maya Social War(Caste War) against the Hispanics . A miracle happen , Crosses appeared and spoke to the Maya giving them hope to continue figthing . These crosses come from the "divine" voice of "hahal ku," the true Maya god of the Masewal . God chose the Masewal and the followers of the cross became known as Cruzoob Maya . After they form the Maya state of Chan Santa Cruz which lasted until the 1901.

Local Belizean Artistic talents at their best at our Annual Cayo Art Festival
Lots of photos!

Channel 7

Working Woman Missing After Fight With Boyfriend, Family Desperate For Answers
Tonight there are serious concerns for a 23 year old working woman from Belize City - who's gone missing without a trace. Anisha Young went to her staff Christmas party on Saturday - and hasn't been seen or heard from since: she hasn't come home, and she didn't show up for work today. She's never done anything like that before - and her cousin told us why the family is so terribly concerned tonight: Sheree Salgado, Anisha's cousin: "The last we have heard about Anisha was Saturday when she went to her work Christmas party. After she left the Christmas party around 1am, she went to Sit and Sip. She had an argument with her boyfriend and people claimed that she went in a taxi and that was the last and around 9pm last night..."

Jealousy and Drinking Led To Vicious Chopping Death
A Guatemalan farm caretaker was hacked to death in Cristo Rey Village in Cayo. Dima Gregorio was at the farm when his brother in law, Filiberto Itche and his wife got into argument. Gregorio stepped in as peacemaker and Itche chopped him to his hands, head and back. Courtney Weatherburne has the story. Courtney Weatherburne reporting: A blot of Dimas Gregorio's dark dried blood marks the spot where he took his final breaths. Gregorio was chopped to death on Friday night at the San Pablo farm in Cristo Rey, Cayo.

One Dead At Pier One
Pier One Bar and Grill, the popular night club inside the BTL Park, was the scene of a murder on Friday night. The victim is 20 year-old Asher Saunders, a resident of Bagdad Street in Belize City, and he's no stranger to police. Reports to 7News are that sometime just before midnight, Saunders was socializing at the bar with others when a fight broke out. The police officers working at the bar attempted to break up the fight between 2 rival gang groups. While the officers were doing that, someone from the crowd pulled out a handgun and shot Saunders to the head. This caused widespread panic in the club and in the park, as everyone fled the area looking for cover. Police rushed Saunders to the KHMH where he died about 15 minutes later.

Man Knocked Down Near Home
A man was knocked down and killed near his St. Matthews home. It happened on Saturday morning after 8:00. The victim is 26 year old Wilford Robinson. He was heading to a friend's house when he was hit. We spoke to his sister about the accident and she says contrary to reports, Wilford was not mentally challenged and he did not deliberately walk unto the heavily trafficked road to get run over. Shanel Robinson, Sister: "My brother was crossing our gate going across the street when the vehicle overtook the bus and hit him. What we want to put out there is that nothing was wrong with my brother, nothing doesn't go like that where they said that he mentally challenged, nothing like that happened. He was already across the road when the vehicle hit him."

Police Not Sure On Charges For St, Matthews Fatal
Now as you heard, the family wants the driver, Ian Rhaburn to be charged but the police are still gathering information on this case to decide if they will press charges. Here's more: ASP Alejandro Cowo, OC-CIB: "On Friday the 7th of December 2018 at about 9:41 am, Mr. Ian Rhaburn, a Belizean business man of Belize City, reported that he was driving from the direction of Roaring Creek towards Belize City driving a rental SUV when approaching St. Matthews Village, a male person ran from the left hand side of the road ran towards his direction causing him to hit the male person..."

Border Activists Push The Envelope on Illegal Border Crossings
There's a group of Belizean border activists in Orange Walk who are challenging Belize's most basic immigration laws. They don't believe that they should have to stamp in and stamp out at Immigration when they're leaving or entering the country. And, also apparently, they don't believe that their movements in and out of the country should be confined to approved border crossings. They put their resolve on the line this weekend when they decided to cross from Santa Cruz Village in Orange Walk to Botes, Mexico - which is not an approved border crossing. In fact, right now it is an area of intensive patrols by the Coast Guard, police, and Customs to cut down on Christmas contraband.

Pilot Reported Dead, Family Reports Him Dead Two Months Later
Two months ago, the media received credible information that Tropic Air pilot Milo Paz had died in Panama while doing private charter work. His boss at Tropic John Greif confirmed that he had heard the same and that Paz was on leave at the time. But, we never found any news or police reports from Panama to confirm that - and, now, there's a new wrinkle in the story: his wife reported him missing on Friday in San Pedro. AND SHE TOO TOLD POLICE THAT SHE'd heard he was dead, but had no confirmation. Now, how do you report an allegedly dead man missing? And is it all just for insurance? That's what we asked police today:...

Police Finding It Hard To Bring Charges In Woman's Murder
A 25 year old woman was killed in Santa Elena on Thursday night. Brenda Castellanos was hanging out with her friend 35 year old Jennis August when two gunmen fired indiscriminately on the yard. August was shot to the chest and the mother of a two year old died on the way to the hospital. Today, police told us that they know who did it but cannot get statements to make an arrest.. ASP Alejandro Cowo, CIB - Eastern Division: "Police have detained several persons who they have questioned, however, because of a lack of evidence. They had to be released. What we understand from the investigator is that several persons have been interviewed, however, they are very reluctant to cooperate with the investigators."

One Man Charged For Raping American Woman
Ladyville Police have arrested a man for raping a 49 year old American woman in that village. ASP Cowo went over the details of the report - and disclosed the name of the alleged rapist:.. ASP Alejandro Cowo: "She reported that about 9am, she was leaving her house on board of her Wingle pickup when she noticed a male person of dark complexion with a machete, standing beside her. A struggle ensued between them where the male person knocked her down and allegedly had sexual intercourse against her will and thereafter made away with eight thousand two hundred dollars Belize currency that she had in her possession."

No Blood Sample Extracted in Head-On Collision
And while that American woman's alleged rapist has been arrested - 85 year old American John Thomas died before he could see charges for the man that rammed head on into his van. The accident happened in Louisville Village, Corozal on Saturday 1st December when 44 year old Martin Carillo was driving a Dodge Calibre that rammed into Thomas's van. The elderly man died 5 days later. Drunk driving was suspected to be the culprit, but today police told us they will never know:...

Two Killers Plead Down To Manslaughter
Tonight, 25 year-old Clive Geban, and 21 year-old Roberto Rodriguez are at the Belize Central Prison awaiting sentencing, after they pleaded guilty to manslaughter. They were charged with murder for the January 2013 killing of 61 year-old Ervin Morales, which happened at his home in Maskall Village. On January 19th, 2013, both Geban and Rodriguez went to Morales' house to rob him. When they didn't find him there, they hid under his bed and waited for him to come home. As soon as he entered, they attacked him with a machete and a knife. He suffered 19 separate wounds, including those to the back of the head, the left shoulder, the hand and both elbows.

More Mora for NTUCB
This weekend, the National Trade Union Congress of Belize held its 52nd Annual General Meeting at the ITVET in Corozal Town. Delegates from all 10 member unions participated in the AGM, where a new Executive Council was elected for the NTUCB for a 2-year term. Marvin Mora, from the Belize Energy Workers Union has been re-elected as the President..."

Madam Speaker In Benin
Speaker of the house, Laura Tucker- Longsworth, recently attended the 36th Session of the African Caribbean Pacific - European Union (ACP-EU) Joint Parliamentary Assembly in Cotonou, Benin. According to an official release, during the November 28th to 30th meeting, she updated the Assmebly on the Belize-Guatemala process along with the latest developments on Belize's preparations for its referendum in April 2019.

The Belize Pitch, in A Glossy
Invest Belize: it's the Ministry of Trade and Investment Promotion's premier magazine which they use to court foreign investors. The magazine is produced annually, and today, BELTRAIDE and the Ministry launched the 6th volume under the theme, "Our Green Economy, Your Trade Opportunity". We stopped by the unveiling ceremony today, and spoke with the Minister and the new Executive Director about this particular theme, and about the companies they highlighted in this edition as examples of the green economy at work:

Gung Ho For Galen
Today's launch of Invest Belize also gave the Small Business Development Center, an arm of BELTRAIDE, an opportunity to officially hand over a $30,000 Galen University scholarship to a raffle winner. The raffle was held 10 days ago at the SBDC's Entrepreneurship Convention, and today, we spoke with the scholarship donors as well as the recipients:

Illegal Logger Gets Big Fine
30 year-old Walter Salazar, a farmer of Armenia Village, is facing an eleven thousand-dollar fine after he pleaded guilty to illegally harvesting mahogany Trees for timber. Last week Thursday, police intercepted a white truck at the junction of Fabers Road and the George Price Highway. Salazar was driving, and when the cops searched the truck, they found 153 pieces of Mahogany lumber, which amounted to just over 1700 board feet.

Maimed In Margaret's
A man lost a part of his hand in a chopping that happened in St, Margaret's Village. 42 YEAR OLD FARMER JOSE ICAL was ambushed by three men after leaving a villager bar on Sunday night. Police told us more:. ASP Alejandro Cowo: "Jose Ical was socializing at Cynthia's Bar when he had a dispute whilst leaving the bar with three male persons; one of them attacked him and chopped him causing that injury to him..."

Ghost Town Cop Shooter
Mayflower Street is a gang controlled area and one famous for skirmishes and exchanges of gunfire with police. There was one more this weekend. The CIB Officer Commanding says police responded to the sound of shots being fired and ended up being fired upon: ASP Alejandro Cowo: "Last night police responded to shot being fired in the Mayflower area. As a result they have a patrol that is located there. They went into the alley on foot and while they were canvassing the area where an alley is located, police observed a male person running away from them..."

Robber Grabbed Deposit Bag
There was a robbery at Benny's around closing time on Friday. Police told us how a gunman got off with nearly five thousand dollars in a deposit bag:... ASP Alejandro Cowo : "On Friday, the 7th of December at about 4:35 pm, Mr. Nathaniel Perera, a Belizean cashier of Benny's Bargain Center, located at No. 54 Freetown Road; he reported that he was standing in front of the business place when he was approached by a male person who came from the direction of Freetown riding a bicycle, who questioned him if the business place was still open..."

No Answers For Burnt Vehicle
And, finally in police news tonight, the cops have no clue as to who burned manager Lisa Stanford's vehicle and why. As we reported on Friday, her vehicle was stolen from in front of the former Chateau restaurant on Thursday night. It turned up the next morning burned near Hattieivlle. We asked the police why:... ASP Alejandro Cowo "The vehicle was found about 8 in the morning at the Butcher Burns Road between Hattieville area extensively damaged by fire. The vehicle is valued at $45,000 Belize currency." Jules Vasquez "Any suspects or suspected motive?" ASP Alejandro Cowo, OC-CIB: "No suspects we have at this moment."

Miss World and Ms. Jalyssa
And, finally, tonight…The 2018 Miss World Pageant was held in Sanya, China this weekend. It was the 68th edition of the pageant, and at end, Vanessa Ponce De Leon, the Mexican delegate, was chosen as the winner. Belize's own Jalyssa Arthurs was also a contestant in the pageant, and she made a great showing on behalf of the country. Here's how she introduced herself to the world's populations which were tuned in:

Channel 5

8 Belizeans Arrested for ‘Illegal Entry,’ but Later Released
Things got chaotic on Sunday evening in Santa Cruz Village in the Orange Walk District. Santa Cruz is an illegal port of entry which leads to the popular Mexican village [...]

Murder at Pier One; Asher Saunders is Executed
Police are tonight looking for the gunman responsible for the murder of Asher Saunders. The twenty-year-old Bagdad Street resident was sitting at the bar of the Pier One night club [...]

Guatemalan Man Chopped to Death by “Friend”
A Guatemalan man was viciously chopped to death on Friday night in a western village. Police believe that Guatemalan Filiberto Itche attacked and killed Dimas Choc in a fit of [...]

Still No Charges for Brenda Castellanos Murder
Police have been unable to charge any suspects for the murder of Brenda Castellanos. The twenty-five-year-old mother was mortally wounded last Thursday as she stood inside a yard on Bishop [...]

Where is Anisha Young?
The family of Anisha “Annie” Young is desperately looking for her. The young woman, who is an employee of Voyse International went missing on Saturday night. She attended her staff [...]

St. Mathews Villager Knocked Down and Killed
Two persons lost their lives in traffic mishaps. On Friday morning, a Belize City businessman driving from Roaring Creek to Belize City knocked down and killed a person who was [...]

John Thomas Perishes 4 Days after Accident in Louisville
Meanwhile, in Louisville a man perished four days after he was involved in a traffic accident in that northern village. Sometime last week, John Thomas was one of two victims [...]

2 Months Later, Milo Paz is Reported Missing
Two months after the Paz family in San Pedro Town received information that forty-nine-year-old Jose Milo Paz had perished, on Friday; his wife Ermijines Paz filed a missing person’s report [...]

A Shootout in Mayflower
There was a shootout between police and a man in the Mayflower area, Belize City on Sunday night. According to reports, a barrage of bullets echoed in the distance and [...]

Adam Meighan Charged for Rape of U.S. National
There are a few more details about the rape and robbery of a forty-nine-year old U.S. national in Ladyville. The victim, who is a student, reported to police that on [...]

The Caribbean Must be Counted at COP24
Every year, the world comes together to attend the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. It is the largest gathering of international climate [...]

Maim in Saint Margaret’s Village; Jose Ical Loses Left Hand
Also on the crime blotter…There was a chopping incident in Saint Margaret’s Village on the Hummingbird Highway. Jose Ical was maimed and his left hand amputated above the wrist following [...]

Robber Escapes with Almost $5000 from Benny’s Bargain Center
Twenty-two-year-old Nathaniel Perera, the cashier at Benny’s Bargain Center on Freetown Road reported to police that he was robbed of over four thousand seven hundred dollars on Friday. Around four-thirty [...]

Meet Gimme 5’s Grand Prize Winner
This month Great Belize Productions/Channel Five marked its twenty-seventh anniversary of broadcast. In a time honored tradition, we celebrated our milestone the way we have from the very first year [...]

Miss Universe Belize Reveals National Costume in International Pageant
Miss Universe Belize, Jenelli Fraser, appeared on stage this morning in Bankok, Thailand where the national costume competition of Miss Universe took place. Fraser wore a stunning ensemble designed by [...]

Belize Bank Spreads Xmas Cheer with Stella Maris Students
One hundred and three students from Stella Maris School were filled with joy today as Belize Bank Limited threw its tenth annual Christmas party for the children. The purpose is [...]

The Sixth Edition of INVEST Belize Magazine is Launched
The sixth edition of BELTRADE’s Investment magazine was launched this morning with the theme, “Our Green Economy, Your Trade Opportunity.”  As the name suggests, the magazine is geared towards sustainable [...]

James Adderley with the Weekend in Sports
Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.   [Highlights of the weekend sporting activities...]

LOVE FM

Choc Chopped and Killed During Domestic Dispute
At almost the same time as the BTL Park murder, at minutes to midnight, in the western section of the country, another murder occurred. Cayo police responded to a murder on a farm in Cristo Rey Village in the Cayo District. When officers arrived at the scene, they found Dimas Gregorio Choc lying face up …

Belize Bank hosts tenth annual Christmas Party for children
Today, the Belize Bank Limited held a Christmas party for 103 students from Stella Maris School. This year marks the tenth annual Christmas party hosted by the bank. Love news stopped by and spoke with Denise Godfrey, the Senior Marketing Officer at Belize Bank Limited, who said that they are happy to serve the students …

Murder in BTL Park
Another murder for 2018 was recorded in Belize City on Friday night. The incident did not occur in a gang affiliated area, but on the entertainment strip. It was only a matter of time until someone lost their life at the BTL Park at a bar which sells alcohol. Violent incidents had occurred at the …

16 Days of Activism ends with pledge-a-thon
There were several activities held in commemoration of the 16-days of activism and today being the final day Ret International held a pledge-a-thon at the Battlefield Park. Love news spoke with Malenie Barnes, Country Director for Ret International, who said that the pledge-a-thon was to invite person to become responders to end gender-based violence and …

Woman raped and robbed weeks after previous assault
A woman who had allegedly been assaulted 5 weeks ago, has reported to the police that since that incident, she had been robbed and raped. Alejandro Cowo, the Officer in Charge of C.I.B., for Belize City says the culprit allegedly stole eight thousand dollars. ASP Alejandro Cowo: “A 49 year old American student who resides …

Man loses an arm while socializing
One man was maimed while socializing in Saint Margaret’s Village, Cayo District. Correspondent Fem Cruz reports. Fem Cruz: “Based on a telephone call received Sunday morning of a chopping incident Love News visited the Western Regional Hospital General Ward in Belmopan and saw 42 year old Jose Ical Belizean farmer of St. Margarett Village with …

Police say suspect targeted a man but killed and shot two women
Two women were socializing with family members and their children in a yard on Bishop Martin Street just after seven o’clock last week Thursday night when a gunman, dressed in black, emerged from behind the yard, fired multiple shots at the group. 25-year-old, Brenda Castellanos passed away during surgery at the Western Regional Hospital while …

UDP hosts Convention in Toledo
The United Democratic Party held a convention to elect a standard bearer for Toledo East. Correspondent Paul Mahung has the results. Paul Mahung Toledo Correspondent: “A convention for Toledo East UDP Standard Bearer was held yesterday in Punta Gorda. Voting polls opened at 9am and closed at 5 pm. It was followed by the counting …

Pilot Milo Paz Reported Missing Two Months After Last Seen
The family of Pilot Jose Aljemiro Paz, better known as “Milo” has officially reported him missing. Police say that on Friday morning Paz’ wife, 46-year-old Ermijines Paz, a Belizean Businesswoman made the report. Milo Paz had left his home on October third and never returned. News of Paz’s demise surfaced days later in which it …

Ahmadiyya Basketball League captures gold in Copa Gatorade Bacalar Tournament
Yesterday, the Ahmadiyya Basketball League returned from Chetumal where both their teams captured gold in the Copa Gatorade Bacalar Tournament. Love news spoke with Naveed Mangla, the President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at, Belize, who said it was their second time participating in the competition. Naveed Mangla, the President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at, Belize: “So …

When a Croc Attacks
But another resident from the West almost lost a limb. But this time the culprit was a crocodile and the victim still has a crocodile tooth stuck in his knee to prove it. Cayo Correspondent Fem Cruz reports...

Sugar Crop Season Opening While World Market Prices Crawl
The opening of sugar cane crop 2018/19 is set for Thursday. American Sugar Refineries, the owner of Belize Sugar Industries is monitoring the crop as the world price per ton continues to drop and some preferential markets begin to dry up. Love News spoke to William Neal, ASR/BSI’s Government Affairs and Communications Officer...

Group of Belizeans held by police on Bellizean soil for illegal entry
A group of Belizeans were arrested on Sunday afternoon in Santa Cruz, Orange Walk for illegal entry to Belize. One of those men was Giovanni De La Fuente, a member of the Northern Territorial Volunteers. Word got out and soon after their arrest, social media was abuzz with the report. Today we spoke with De la Fuente who said that while they were detained, they were never charged...

6th Volume of INVEST BELIZE
The Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE) launch the 6th Volume of the Invest Belize Magazine under the theme “Our Green Economy, Your Trade Opportunity”. Love news spoke to Minister of Trade Tracy Panton and Beltraide’s Executive Director Dr. Leroy Almendarez about the significance of the Invest Belize magazine to the tourism product as well as a mean to attract capital investment in Belize...

IN THE COURTS: Men plead guilty to manslaughter, while villager busted for mahogany
Two men, 25-year-old Clive Geban and 21-year-old Roberto Rodriguez, who were charged with the murder of 61-year-old Ervin Morales, pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter when they appeared today before Justice Colin Williams. Their sentences have been deferred until December 18 in order for them to prepare pleas for mitigation...

Jordan Craig appointed to Commonwealth Youth Council
A young Belizean has been selected to be part of the Commonwealth Youth Council (CYC) for the period 2018 to 2020. The Commonwealth Youth Council’s aim is to further advance the youth development agenda by integrating young people into the development work of the Commonwealth at national, regional, and Pan-Commonwealth levels...

The Reporter

MISSING YOUNG WOMAN, FAMILY SEEKS PUBLIC’S HELP
Family and friends of Anisha ‘Anny’ Young are asking anyone with information on her whereabouts to please call 602-7154. Young was last seen at a private function on Saturday night and hasn’t been seen since.

Man’s Hand Chopped Off in Machete Altercation
A man’s hand was chopped off by one of three men while he was heading home from a bar Saturday night. The Reporter understands that shortly before midnight on Saturday night Jose Ical, 42, a farmer of St. Margaret’s Village was walking home along with Lionel Bustillos...

Breaking Belize News

Police: Witnesses not cooperating in shooting of two women in Santa Elena, Cayo
Last Thursday night,police visited Santa Elena, Cayo where they saw two females with gunshot wounds to […]

Police: Love triangle leads to fatal chopping in Cristo Rey
On Friday, just before midnight, San Ignacio police visited Cristo Rey, Cayo at a farm where […]

Young woman from Belize City missing
The family of Anisha “Anny” Young is concerned about her whereabouts. According to reports, Young was […]

House Speaker attends 36th Session of the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Laura Tucker- Longsworth led Belize’s delegation to the 36th […]

Dennis Garbutt wins UDP Toledo East Convention
Yesterday, the United Democratic Party (UDP) hosted a convention to elect a standard bearer in […]

Cold front affecting Belize
Today, the National Meteorological Center (NMC) informed that a cold front is affecting Belize. According to […]

Jenelli Fraser represents Belize at Ms. Universe 2018
Belizean beauty ambassador, Jenelli Fraser is in Bangkok,Thailand where she is representing Belize at the 2018 […]

Belize~ Paying its own way to Hell
Whenever a person offers up his own resources to finance initiatives that are against his own best interest…he can be said to be paying his own way to hell […]

Blogs

‘Rock the Boat’ in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize.
On our first day back from our trip to New Orleans Rose and I received a really lovely invitation to be part of an event that we have been watchers of since its inception. The San Pedro Holiday Lighted Boat Parade. Only one answer. ” Yes please”. So yesterday evening Rose, our friend Frank and myself got to the dock at Ramon’s Village Resort by 16.50 hours to meet the crew and our fellow seafarers. From our great vantage point we able to quite close to the rest of the boats.

‘The World is My Oyster’ away from San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize.
I know, I know. It’s been a while since I last produced an edition. A long while. I’ve actually sat down to write something a few times. In fact each time we’ve been on holiday this year – London, Nashville and Cartagena- or family or friends have come to stay with us I’ve knocked a few paragraphs out but then lost the drive to finish what I started. Well, Rose and I have just got back from a trip to New Orleans and I think the virtually exclusive diet of omega 3 ( more later) has had a substantial effect upon my energy levels. And appears – how long this may last I have no idea – to have instilled a degree of discipline into me again. Anyway, back to our little trip away from San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize.

“Tell It Like It Is “ when away from San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize.
Now where were we ? Oh yes, I left you all after Rose and I had enjoyed a shucking good day two in New Orleans. Day three proved to be just as enjoyable. No, that’s not true. It was more enjoyable. I’d already made arrangements for our Thanksgiving Day evening entertainment so we decided that during the daytime we’d have a leisurely walk around and take in the sights, sounds and smells.

What Is Glover’s Reef Atoll? And Why Is It So Special?
Across all of the world’s oceans ranging from the storm-tossed waters of the Southern Ocean to the frigid northern regions of the Atlantic Ocean, you will not find a single atoll outside of the Pacific Ocean. Yet just a few miles offshore from Belize lie three atolls, the only true exceptions to the rule. And the crown jewel of these three iconoclastic atolls is Glover’s Reef. What is an atoll? In regions where coral grows, it sometimes grows in a ring shape around a seamount or volcano. If the volcano or seamount begins to erode and slips beneath the surface of the water, a lagoon forms in the interior, the definition of a true atoll. Glover’s Reef is one such atoll located approximately 22 miles (35 km) offshore from mainland Belize. Glover’s Atoll is part of a protected marine reserve called the Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve (GSSCMR), one of the most beautiful and eco-diverse regions of the reef.

Gladden Spit & Silk Caye Marine Reserve
Just a few miles offshore of the Belizean mainland lies the vast archipelago of the Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest coral barrier reef system in the Western Hemisphere. Located on the outer edge of this reef is the Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes MarineReserve (GSSCMR), a protected conservation area that is ideal for enjoying snorkeling and scuba diving. The GSSCMR measures over 25,000 acres (10,500 ha) in size and is located approximately 22 miles (36 km) due east of the Placencia Peninsula in southeastern Belize. Managed by the Southern Environmental Association, a local NGO, this area is one of the healthiest and vibrant marine ecosystems on the Belize Barrier Reef.

Belize’s Great Blue Hole Is Mysterious and Thrilling
When Jacques Cousteau arrived at the Great Blue Hole in Belize in 1971, he declared it to be one of the top five most interesting dive sites in the world. The Great Blue Hole is a circle of dark blue water located inside Lighthouse Reef just a few miles offshore from mainland Belize. Underneath the water lies a huge cave formation complete with stalactites, stalagmites, and tunnels. Unlike most dive sites in Belize where the main attraction is the colorful fish and delicate coral, the Great Blue Hole is sparsely inhabited by just a few marauding sharks. The attraction of the diving the Great Blue Hole is the chance to explore a mysterious and gothic underworld. The Great Blue Hole was originally a limestone cave that formed on dry land millions of years ago. But when the glaciers began to melt some 150,000 years ago, the cave became submerged.

The Beers of Belize
Something about the hot sun and balmy weather in Belize makes this jewel of a country the perfect place to enjoy a cold brew. And yes, while imported beers from around the region are available, no visit to the country should be considered complete without sampling some of the beers of Belize. There is only one domestic brewery in Belize: Belikin Beer, which is based in Belize City and uses the iconic Temple of the Masonry Altars from the ancient Maya site of Altun Ha as its logo. Indeed, “Belikin” is the Maya term for the Belize River which provides all of the water for the brewery.

Altun Ha – An Iconic Ancient Maya City in Belize
There are plenty of much larger ancient Maya sites in Belize, but there’s no more iconic display of that advanced civilization’s prowess than Altun Ha. Despite being located just 31 miles (49 km) outside of Belize City, Altun Ha was only rediscovered in the 1950s. During its heyday over 1,000 years ago, Altun Ha was home to more than 10,000 people and covered approximately 25 square miles (65 square km). Only a fraction of the city has been excavated, but visitors today can explore the ceremonial center which includes two big squares (plazas) containing 13 impressive temples and buildings.

Belize: Best Places to Travel in January
January is not often thought of as a popular month for traveling. Many folks are recovering from the holidays, and it can be difficult to bring children without having them miss any school. But if you do have some free time in January, it is the perfect month to visit Belize. The big Christmas crowds have all faded away, airlines are offering competitive prices, and Belize will be enjoying long, sunny days with delightfully warm temperatures. Daytime temperatures average around 81 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius) in January, and the month falls during the height of the dry season, meaning that you’re nearly guaranteed to enjoy fantastic weather when you visit Belize in January. The great weather makes it easy to enjoy popular activities.

Cave Tubing at Nohoch Che’en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve
Nohoch Che’en, which is also commonly known as Caves Branch or Jaguar Paw Outpost. This experience is hands down one of the top things to do in Belize. Why? Because this caving adventure is truly amazing – it’s a relaxing and exciting experience where you can enjoy drifting down the Caves Branch River and learn about the historical value of the cave system to the ancient Maya. You get the best of both adventure and education whilst tubing! It was actually my first time cave tubing at Nohoch Che’en Cave and, to be honest, I had a great time! The drive to the site took us approximately 1 hour from San Ignacio Town. Our guide parked the vehicle and led us to the information center where we were given our river tubes, life jackets, helmets, and headlamps. After getting our geared, we set off for our twenty-minute hike to the entrance of our first cave.

International Sources

Guatemala’s Uphill Battle Against Corruption
Guatemala’s history over the last century has been one of the most troubled, as well as most heavily influenced by foreign interventions, in all of Central America. During the first half of the 20th century, two revolutions over the span of a decade ended the military dictatorship of Jorge Ubico and Federico Ponce in 1944, and, in 1954, the presidency of Jacobo Arbenz. Later on, between 1960 and 1996, the country underwent a violent internal conflict, marked by a succession of military coups. The most notable dictator during this period was General Efrain Rios Montt, whose year in power was particularly violent for the country’s indigenous communities. Over these troubled decades, multinational companies, particularly the United Fruit Company, played a determinant role in Guatemala’s national economic and political sectors. Today, Guatemala is the most populous country in Central America, Mexico’s southern doorstep and one of the region’s most important export economies, yet it still struggles with a government that is plagued by graft, corruption and impunity.

The complete list of Prince Philip's most memorable gaffes
Prince Philip's greatest legacy - apart from his marathon marriage to Elizabeth II - has been a lifetime of controversial, cringeworthy and sometimes outright appalling comments. Here we examine the complete list. Shouted to the Queen during an official visit to Belize in 1994: ‘Yak, yak, yak; come on get a move on.’

30 Brilliant Buys Travel Pros Never Travel Without
Travel agents and flight attendants share their must-pack items for every trip—what crucial items are missing from your checklist?

Videos