The historic English Harbour residence of former Governor-General Dame Louise Lake-Tack was targeted by burglars on Friday, 27 September. According to police reports, the intruders gained entry by forcing open a basement door and subsequently accessed the upper floor through an unlocked bedroom window. The perpetrators ransacked the property, making off with a variety of items including electrical wiring, paint brushes, roller pads, and dishwashing liquid. The total value of the stolen goods remains unassessed as investigations continue. Forensic teams have meticulously examined the scene, gathering evidence to aid in the ongoing inquiry. The incident has raised concerns about security in the area, particularly for high-profile residences. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and ensure their properties are adequately secured. This break-in marks a troubling violation of privacy and safety for one of Antigua’s most distinguished public figures.
作者: admin
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Punta Gorda Opens First Art Gallery and Museum
Punta Gorda, a town in southern Belize, has inaugurated its first-ever Art Gallery and Museum, marking a significant milestone in the region’s cultural landscape. The new venue shines a spotlight on the artistic prowess of 22 indigenous women artisans, whose exquisite creations—ranging from clothing and baskets to jewelry and other handmade items—are now on display. These artisans recently graduated from the ‘Advanced Product Development and Design – Vocational Training for Indigenous Women Artisans in Southern Belize’ program, which has empowered them to blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. The initiative was spearheaded through a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Culture, and Immigration, the Home of Indigenous Arts Belize Limited, and the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan). The gallery and museum are poised to become a vibrant cultural hub, attracting both locals and tourists while providing a sustainable platform for indigenous artists to showcase their work, earn income, and preserve Belize’s rich cultural heritage.
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BDF and Police Honoured for Service on National Service Day
The Ministry of the Public Service, Governance, and Disaster Risk Management has honored 51 members of the Belize Defence Force (BDF) and the Belize Police Department for their exceptional contributions to the annual National Service Day Wreath Laying Ceremony. The event, held on September 26, commemorated the life and enduring legacy of Belize’s founding father, the Right Honourable George Cadle Price. The ceremony recognized the officers’ unwavering support and dedication, culminating in a celebratory luncheon hosted at the Price Barracks Family Association Building. Ministers Henry Charles Usher and Oscar Mira personally served the awardees, expressing gratitude for their commitment to national service. Minister Usher highlighted the pivotal role of the security forces in the event, particularly the participation of the BDF band, which added a ceremonial touch to the proceedings. Among the honorees were individuals who recently completed the BDF’s Senior Non-Commissioned Officers Drill Course, as well as those who have actively supported National Service Day activities for over a decade. In his address, Minister Usher lauded the officers for their professionalism and deep sense of national pride. He also invoked the example of George Price, emphasizing his humility and lifelong dedication to service, which continues to inspire Belizeans across generations.
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Caye Caulker to Vote on Marijuana Industry Referendum
The residents of Caye Caulker are gearing up for a pivotal referendum on October 8, 2025, which will determine whether the government can establish a marijuana industry on the island. This vote has ignited intense discussions about the island’s future, particularly its reputation as a family-friendly tourist haven. The central question on the ballot is whether cannabis cultivation should be permitted, a proposal that has divided the community. Proponents argue that the move could stimulate economic growth and create new opportunities, while detractors fear it could disrupt the island’s tranquil, family-oriented ambiance and negatively impact tourism. Senator Luis Wade has publicly opposed the measure, cautioning that a marijuana industry could erode the island’s unique character. Celina Jimenez, a local resident spearheading the “No Campaign,” has warned that tourism groups bringing hundreds of visitors annually might cease their operations if cannabis is legalized. On the other side, Councillor Ilya Rosado, leading the “Yes Campaign,” has stressed the importance of education and transparency, urging residents to base their decisions on factual information. Hon. Kareem Musa, Minister of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries, has called for mutual respect among voters, noting that cannabis possession has been legal in Belize since 2017. The referendum will solely determine whether regulations for cultivation should be established. The outcome of this vote is anticipated to significantly influence the future identity and economic trajectory of Caye Caulker.
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Disasters and Crises in the Caribbean Region: A Review of Experiences in Seven Islands
The Media Institute of the Caribbean (MIC), in collaboration with UNESCO, has released a landmark report titled *Disasters and Crises in the Caribbean Region: A Review of Experiences in Seven Islands*. This comprehensive study delves into the critical role of communication and information management during disasters across Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The report underscores the Caribbean’s heightened vulnerability to natural and health crises, emphasizing the need for robust, culturally sensitive, and timely communication strategies to mitigate risks and enhance resilience. It highlights the indispensable role of local journalists in disseminating emergency information, exposing accountability issues, and amplifying community voices, despite often working under hazardous conditions with limited resources. The report also calls for targeted investments in resilient news infrastructure, trauma-informed training for journalists, and stronger partnerships between media, government, and humanitarian agencies. Kiran Maharaj, President of MIC, described the report as a ‘call to action’ for governments and international partners, stressing that strengthening communication infrastructure is essential for saving lives, preserving development gains, and sustaining democracy. Dr. Paul Hector of UNESCO echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for policy reforms and institutional investments to build a safer and more informed Caribbean. The full report is available on the MIC website and other platforms.
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FID amplifies public education to curb financial crimes
KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Financial Investigations Division (FID) has announced a significant expansion of its nationwide public-education initiative aimed at raising awareness about financial crimes and their societal impact. Through a multi-platform approach, the FID is equipping citizens, businesses, and regulated sectors with essential knowledge to identify, prevent, and report illicit financial activities. Key components of the campaign include the radio series “FID in Action,” the audiovisual podcast “Follow The Money,” and a dedicated Money Mule Awareness program. These resources provide practical insights into how financial crimes operate, highlight warning signs, and outline steps for reporting suspicious behavior. Recent efforts have particularly targeted young professionals, the unemployed, and small business owners, cautioning them against allowing their identities, bank accounts, or businesses to be exploited for illegal fund transfers—a practice that could result in criminal charges under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA). Dennis Chung, FID’s chief technical director, emphasized the critical role of public education in Jamaica’s fight against financial crime. He stated, “By demystifying complex topics like scams, cyber-enabled fraud, and asset recovery, we empower Jamaicans to safeguard themselves and their enterprises.” The campaign complements the FID’s investigative and inter-agency efforts, aligning with its legal mandate to disseminate typologies and statistics that aid in crime prevention. New episodes of “FID in Action” air biweekly on Nationwide 90FM, while “Follow The Money” is released monthly on the FID’s YouTube channel and major podcast platforms. The “Money Mule” campaign further engages stakeholders through news stories, digital ads, and town hall meetings.




