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Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, West Vision (Cayo) and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Rise and Shine Morning Show, and the Dickie Bradley Specials

The San Pedro Sun

Noh Mul destruction calls for increase in penalties
It’s been almost three years since the De Mars Stone Company bulldozed Noh Mul, an ancient Maya site located in San Pablo, Orange Walk. In May 13, 2013, the company razed the historic site for white marl, sparking outrage across the country and internationally. The four culprits: Denny Grijalva and his wife, Emelda Grijalva, company directors, the company’s project manager Javier Nunez, and excavator Emil Cruz, faced charges for destroying Noh Mul. On Thursday, April 21st, after eight months, the trial ended at the Corozal Town Magistrate Court, where the accused were found guilty and fined for their acts. During the trial, Chief Magistrate Anne Marie Smith stated, “When the Court visited the site of Noh Mul, it was observed that the mound was in the middle of a privately owned sugarcane field, and even lacked the stone sides frequently seen in reconstructed or better-preserved pyramids. The pyramid mound, which is about 30 metres (100ft.) tall, is surrounded by landscape which seemed to be naturally flat. However, there was THE clear demarcation of the ‘make up’ of the mound, which showed a clearly formed brick-like structure which was easily distinguished from a common pile of earth”. To Smith this was more than enough evidence to confirm the site as an archeological reserve, a key factor De Mars Stone Company Limited ignored.

Helen Haylock to represent San Pedro at Miss Y Pageant
63-year-old Helen Haylock has been chosen to represent La Isla Bonita in the Young Women’s Christian Association’s (YWCA) 23rd Anniversary Celebration of Miss Y Seenagers Pageant. A fundraising event was hosted on April 23rd by the National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) and Adelle Paz from Adelle’s International Outreach Program at the San Pedro House of Culture. All proceeds will go towards assisting Haylock with wardrobe, traveling expenses, and costs of the pageant. At the event, Public Relations Officer of the YWCA, Shellon Nunez, spoke about the organization and pledged to support Haylock in her quest to pageantry. Photographer Karen Brodie provided the contestant with a professional photo-shoot, and that evening, Haylock was officially sashed and crowned as Miss Y San Pedro.

Barrow says “Give Peace a Chance”: Tensions between Belize and Guatemala de-escalate
Prime Minister of Belize, Right Honourable Dean Barrow has petitioned all Belizeans to “give peace a chance” following the increased tensions between Belize and Guatemala. The long standing territorial dispute reached its boiling point last week when Guatemala mobilized troops at the Western Boarder claiming it necessary to protect their people. The entire situation was triggered over the fatal shooting of 13-year-old Guatemalan Julio Alvarado by the Belize Defence Force (BDF) patrol near La Cebada in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve on Wednesday, April 20th. With both countries having different takes on the incident, it took several diplomatic meetings to diffuse the tension and for the countries’ relationship to return to normalcy. Barrow assures Belizeans that there is no threat from Guatemala, and that it is best to resolve the issue diplomatically than with force. “We have just concluded a meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) of Belize, and this is a follow-on from the meeting held on Friday, April 22nd when I was in New York, and in which I participated by phone.

Humpback Whale dies in Belizean waters
The Belize environmental community is saddened over the death of a 30-foot Humpback Whale within Belizean waters. The whale was first spotted in Belizean waters on February 24, 2016, and since then, had been seen in several areas including Big Creek Port, the Port Honduras Marine Reserve, Scipio Caye and Riversdale. On Monday, April 25th the whale was spotted once again; unfortunately this time it was found dead. While it is still unknown what may have caused the Humpback whale’s death, local scientists believe that the whale was either lost or sick. Efforts are currently underway to attempt a necropsy to determine the exact cause of death. When Oceana Belize personnel traveled to the rough and murky waters offshore of Barranco on Friday, April 22nd, the whale was in obvious distress. It was subsequently observed that the whale’s movement was being hampered by a gill net wrapped around its tail, adding insult to injury,” said Oceana who had been observing the whale since the first sighting.

San Pedro Tiger Sharks make it to the NEBL Finals
Despite a few hurdles during the past eleven weeks of basketball action, the San Pedro Tiger Sharks are in the finals of the 2016 National Elite Basketball League (NEBL) Tournament for the third year in a row. Against all odds, the island team is hoping to capture the championship for the third consecutive year. The finals promise to be a fierce match-up between two of the strongest teams in Belize. Both teams have a huge front court and are physically strong, while the guard play is also evenly matched. Key players in these finals will be San Pedro Tiger Sharks’ Raul Roches, Andrew “Bynum” Ortiz and Caleb Sutton who will go up against Smart Belize Hurricanes’ Darwin “Puppy” Leslie, Farron Louriano and Brian White.

Ambergris Today

Belize Welcomes ACP Resolution on Belize Guatemala Dispute
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belize welcomes the Resolution adopted by the Council of Ministers of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group (ACP) on the subject of the Recent Tensions Between Belize and Guatemala. The ACP Council met for their 103rd Session on 26-27 April 2016 in Dakar, Senegal. At the conclusion of their Session on 27th April, the ACP Council of Ministers adopted a Resolution wherein they express their commitment to Belize’s territorial integrity and their concerns over the tensions along Belize’s border with Guatemala, as well as their support for the need for confidence building measures for the Sarstoon River. They also support efforts at finally resolving Guatemala’s claim to Belize at the International Court of Justice, in accordance with the Special Agreement of 2008.

San Pedro Association of Justice of the Peace & Commissioner of the Supreme Court meeting
The San Pedro Association of Justice of the Peace & Commissioner of the Supreme Court will be holding its first Wednesday of the month meeting, this Wednesday, May 4 at 7:00 PM at the San Pedro Town Council Conference Room. All JP's are encouraged to attend as we begin to rebuild the San Pedro Chapter. Please pass the word to fellow JP & CSC and looking forward to seeing you there!

Celebrity Spotting NBA Star Danilo Gallinari Visits Ambergris Caye
Island sports enthusiast Joel Ruiz was excited to post a picture of himself alongside NBA star Danilo Gallinari just after catching the sports celebrity walking down the main streets of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize this week. Danilo is an Italian professional basketball player for the Denver Nuggets of the National Basketball Association. His Instagram profile shows him swimming with the Sharks at Hol Chan Marine Reserve/Shark Ray Alley.

Misc Belizean Sources

TAIWAN OFFICIALLY HANDS OVER HELICOPTERS TO BELIZE
Two helicopters were donated and handed over to Belize by the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) on Wednesday, April 27th at the BDF Headquarters, Price Barracks, Ladyville. In an official ceremony, the helicopters were officially received from Taiwan’s Ambassador in Belize H.E Benjamin Ho by Minister of National Security Hon. John Saldivar.

The Embassy of Mexico presents "Yucatan Abstract and Reality Peintre"
Happening next Thursday May 5th at SISE House of Culture.

Colorful water toys line the beach north of San Pedro
On Ambergris Caye. I've not yet tried paddle boarding, but would like to do so. With such calm water, and a balmy Caribbean breeze, Belize is a fantastic spot to swim, sail, kayak, snorkel or dive, paddle board, windsurf or kite surf...

Hol Chan Marine Reserve with RC School to celebrate Earth Day 2016
We were pleased to team up with Karina Paz from the RC School to carry out an activity to celebrate Earth Day 2016. A touch tank and some displays were set up at the RC School last Friday and kids got a chance to get up close to some marine organisms. Karina is young and ambitious, she is also volunteer with the Ambergris Caye Marine Turtle Program. Good job Karina!

Belize Welcomes Commonwealth Secretary General
The Government of Belize and people of Belize extend a warm welcome to our fellow Dominican national Baroness Patricia Janet Scotland, Secretary General of the Commonwealth. Baroness Scotland is visiting Belize as a first stop in her official tour to the Commonwealth Caribbean since taking office on April 1, 2016. She arrived today in Belize and will be staying until Monday, May 1st. During her stay, the Secretary General will be meeting with the Prime Minister of Belize Right Honourable Dean Barrow and other senior members of the Government of Belize. She will also take the opportunity to visit the Office of the Organization of American States (OAS) in the Adjacency Zone, where she will be received by the Chief of the OAS Fund for Peace. Baroness Scotland has a distinguished career as an attorney, educator, and public officer. At the age of 35 she was the first black woman to become a Queen's Counsel. In 2007 she was appointed Attorney General in the United Kingdom, making it the first time a woman held that post since it was created in 1315.

Farmers of the Year 2016
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment and Sustainable Development through the Agriculture Department announces this year’s Farmers of the Year winners. This year, the Farmers of the Year reign from the Cayo and Toledo Districts. The male farmer is Ever Blandon of Valley of Peace, Cayo District; the female farmer is Maria Lara of Trio Village, Toledo District; and the junior farmer is Eric Can Jr. of Succotz Village, Cayo District. The National Agriculture and Trade show is an event which has been celebrated since the 1960's. The first one was held in El Cayo which is today known as San Ignacio. Later in 1972, the show moved to the National Agriculture and Trade Show Grounds in Belmopan and one of the most important highlights over the years has been the recognition of the Farmer of the Year.

Belize Welcomes ACP Resolution on Belize Guatemala Dispute
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belize welcomes the Resolution adopted by the Council of Ministers of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group (ACP) on the subject of the Recent Tensions Between Belize and Guatemala. The ACP Council met for their 103rd Session on 26-27 April 2016 in Dakar, Senegal. At the conclusion of their Session on 27th April, the ACP Council of Ministers adopted a Resolution wherein they express their commitment to Belize’s territorial integrity and their concerns over the tensions along Belize’s border with Guatemala, as well as their support for the need for confidence building measures for the Sarstoon River. They also support efforts at finally resolving Guatemala’s claim to Belize at the International Court of Justice, in accordance with the Special Agreement of 2008.

Poets Corner: Saviours!
By Abdulmajeed K Nunez. Will Mejia is our saviour The PM is acting like a beggar Shameless begging the Guatemalans in front of his own citizens He literally diminished his charge I thought he was the Head Niger in charge Molina showcasing that his gonads are large Dean is the leader of the nation And can’t even display true command He should be empowering his people Showing them he appreciate their muscle Instead he’s encouraging cowardice For years Goldson was the lonely voice Dean is not of Goldson's saviour brand He has not the intestinal fortitude true leadership demands Who would go to prison! Dean is would never take the route Goldson chose He’s a coward and needs to be exposed He’d rather suck Morales’s toes Than step on his toes A true leader is bold publicly Then negotiates privately Dean’s demeanour was cowardly, Has he ever been to Sarstoon Caye?

Bad Ting Mek Laugh
KREM Television is proud to launch our two volume collector's edition DVD of its groundbreaking comedy series, 'Bad Ting Mek Laugh'. All the best laughs and the characters you loved in season one are available on this DVD collection! Please INBOX ME to pre-order. DVDs will be available at this year's Agri Show and starting Friday, April 29th at $20 per volume and discounted price of $30 for both DVDs. We need your support for the survival of our network and the production of season two which commences shortly and returns with a bang on Saturday, August 27th. Keep the laughs alive, buy a copy for your DVD library.

Channel 5

A Firsthand Look at the B.D.F./Guatemalan Sarstoon Encounter in March
There was a double murder today in the west and we will come to that shortly, but events of national importance in the Sarstoon continue to dominate the news. Tonight, [...]

9 B.D.F. Soldiers Face Disciplinary Charges Following Sarstoon Standoff
Following that dangerous encounter, nine Belize Defense Force soldiers, including Sergeant Kib and Lance Corporal Zuniga, who were assigned to the construction site where the Sarstoon Forward Operating Base was [...]

Sarstoon Trip Still A Go Despite Official Effort to Dissuade Territorial Volunteers
This afternoon, Ministry of Foreign Affairs C.E.O. Lawrence Sylvestre, with military leaders General David Jones and Admiral John Borland attempted to dissuade representatives of the Belize Territorial Volunteers from going [...]

NTV Won’t Accompany Southern Counterpart to Sarstoon
Today at the meeting the BTV was joined by representatives of the Northern Territorial Volunteers, headquartered in Orange Walk. The mandate of the NTV is to increase awareness of our [...]

De la Fuente Says BTV Provoking Guatemalans is Absurd
De la Fuente says that where the trip to the Sarstoon is concerned, any aggression from the Guatemalans will be a result of the weakness of government’s position now and [...]

Double Murder in Cayo, Was it Drug-related?
There was a double murder today in the west off the cutoff to the garbage dump near Misty Meadow Farms. Two Guatemalan nationals were found murdered off a feeder road [...]

Has a Preliminary Report on Chiquibul Been Completed?
The attempt by Guatemala to inspire international outrage against Belize following last Wednesday incident in the Chiquibul continues unabated. In an interview we aired on Wednesday, Foreign Minister Carlos Raul [...]

NTV Won’t Accompany Southern Counterpart to Sarstoon
Today at the meeting the BTV was joined by representatives of the Northern Territorial Volunteers, headquartered in Orange Walk. The mandate of the NTV is to increase awareness of our [...]

De la Fuente’s Two Cents on Guatemala’s Anti-Belize PR Campaign
We also asked De la Fuente to weigh in on Guatemala’s obvious intent to wage a PR war against Belize. The incident in which Guatemalan minor Julio Alvarado Ruano was [...]

Indigenous Communities Affected by Guatemala’s High-handed Sarstoon Stance
The abrupt decision by Guatemala to exercise sovereignty over the Sarstoon River is an infraction which contravenes the rights of the indigenous communities of southern Belize.  Barranco, the southernmost village [...]

Threat to Torch Western Border Offices Explained
Following the shooting death of thirteen-year-old Julio Alvarado Ruano last Wednesday, Guatemalan President Jimmy Morales announced that the western and southern borders with Belize would be militarized.  As tensions built [...]

Trial of Accused Murderer Ervin Reneau Continues in Supreme Court
The murder trial of Ervin Reneau, accused of the November, 2010 murder of two Belize City men, Security Guard Edgar Ayala and David Longsworth is nearing an end. Both were [...]

Canadian High Commission Donates to Belizean Organizations
Three organizations were recognized today as beneficiaries of the Canada Caribbean Disaster Risk Management Fund. HelpAge Belize, NAVCO and SATIIM have all completed on disaster relief, funded by the Canadian [...]

Academic Opportunities in Canada
Canadian High Commissioner Deborah Chatsis is visiting from Guatemala where the High Commission is located. Her visit coincides with the ongoing Caribbean Conference on Indigenous Peoples and she has taken [...]

Commonwealth Secretary General Arrives in Belize
Baroness Patricia Janet Scotland is the Secretary General of the Commonwealth. She arrived today in Belize on a first visit since her assumption of the post. It is also her [...]

ACP Countries Support Resolution of Guatemalan Claim at ICJ
The Council of Ministers of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group known as the ACP was convened on Tuesday and Wednesday of this week in Dakar, Senegal. Ambassador Dylan Vernon [...]

ITVET Hosts Open House
It is safe to say that the ITVET is a story of success. Enrollment has been growing and so is the selection of programs offered. At an open house today [...]

50 Cal Prepares for Belize/Guatemala Bout
Belize and Guatemala has been constantly in the news cycle the past two weeks.  While the leaders of the two countries are de-escalating tensions at the border, things are actually [...]

Farmers of the Year are Here!
The National Agriculture and Trade Show takes place this weekend at the show grounds in Belmopan.  Thousands are expected to converge there for the event which begins on Friday and [...]

Healthy Living Looks at Polio
Vaccination week in the Americas and across the region; the focus is on countries to expand their coverage of immunization for infants and children. In Belize we have boasted for [...]

CTV3

BTV Unable To Meet With International Media
Today Will Mejia of the Belize Territorial Volunteers and Orlando De La Fuente of the Northern Territorial Volunteers were scheduled to be interviewed by three media houses from Guatemala: Prensa Libre, Canal Antigua and El Diario. The interview was programmed to take place on the Belize side of the Sarstoon but according to Mejia, at the last minute the Guatemalan press asked for a change of venue and asked for them to travel into Guatemala, a request which Mejia refused. Will Mejia- Leader BTV: “We agree that we would meet at the Belize side of the border and they called back and said that if we could meet on their side and I am totally in disagreement with that and I am sure is Orlando that meeting don’t seem that it will happen unless they decide to come over to Belize but as of now that is not happening because I am not going to go to Guatemala if they want to talk to us they would have to come to Belize.”

PlusTV

OAS: Lambey marked for death by Guatemalans
A preliminary report from the Organization of American States appears to confirm that Staff Sergeant Richard Lambey was deliberately ambushed by armed Guatemalan civilians near a watering hole in the Chiquibul forest on Holy Saturday, March 26. They apparently wanted to kill him. We hear more from B...

OAS to Conduct Independent Investigation into the Death of Guatemalan Minor
Meanwhile, the Organization of American States (OAS) will conduct, at the request of the governments of Belize and Guatemala, an independent investigation of the April 20 incident that led to the death of the Guatemalan minor Julio René Alvarado Ruano and in which his father and brother were wounded...

Drive by shooting in Belmopan
A drive by shooting in the Belmopan Area has left one man in a critical condition. On Tuesday the 26th of April, shots were heard coming from the Salvapan Area of Belmopan. Reports are that 24 year old Jose Alberto Marquez was standing on the corner of St. Peter’s Street in Salvapan when a black car...

Taiwan hands over BDF helicopters
The Belize Defence Force (BDF) is now the proud owner of two Huey rotary wing helicopters assembled by a 17-member team from the Republic of China (Taiwan)’s military and donated by its Government. As previously noted by commander of the BDF, Brigadier General David Jones, it has long been a ...

Recalled Guatemalan Ambassador says Belize is the aggressor
Guatemalan Presidetn Jimmy morales recalled the Guatemalan Ambassador to Belize, , Manuel Roldan Barillas for consultation following the death of an illegal Guatemalan in Belizean territory. According to an article in Guatemalan newspaper, Prensa Libre, Ambassador Roldan granted them an interview ...

“Don’t worry” about new British-Guatemalan attaché
The United Kingdom, and particularly the British Army Training Support Unit Belize (BATSUB), has long been regarded as a line of first defense for Belize, its former dependency. News of an up-tick in the number of British forces training in Belize over the next few years, reported last year, bolster...

Leaders hope BTV listen to “ reason”
Can the Government of Belize convince the Belize Territorial Volunteers not to go to the Sarstoon for their commemorative event on Saturday? It appears a tall order, but Belize’s top military leaders, past and present, intend to take a stab at it on Thursday in Punta Gorda Town. Brigadier General Da...

The Guardian

BDF has new helicopters
Belize Defense Force’s B-11 and B-12 aircrafts are now officially airborne and are transporting soldiers to the most remote parts of the country. His Excellency Benjamin Ho, Ambassador of the Republic of China-Taiwan, handed over the two UH1H helicopters to Hon. John Saldivar, Minister of National Security, on Wednesday, April 27, at Price Barracks. Since the British Government pulled out its helicopters being used by the British Army Training and Support Unit in Belize (BATSUB) in 2012, the Government of Belize had been calling on allies to provide air support for its troops. Requests went out to the Governments of the United States, Taiwan, Canada and others. When it appeared that those request were falling on deaf ears, in 2014 the Government of Belize gave Brigadier General David Jones, Commandant of the BDF, a mission to scout and find helicopters to be purchased by the Government. After checking numerous sources, the prices ranged from US$8 million to US$12 million. These were significantly beyond the reach of government’s budget. General Jones decided to turn his sights from the military type choppers to the type of civilian machines that are cheaper. This resulted in an interest in two refurbished Bell 206 helicopters that were being sold in Florida. After inspecting the vessels and evaluating the purchase, a decision was made to stand down. Around this same time, the Government of Taiwan expressed a willingness to support the Air Wing of the Belize Defense Force.

7 months sentence for killing her husband
A hot topic on the streets and on social media on Tuesday was the conclusion of the Kim Brannon, 45, murder trial. Brannon’s trial concluded on Monday, April 25, with an eight year sentence by Justice Troadio John Gonzalez after she was convicted of chopping her common-law-husband to death on December 13, 2008 and lying to police about his cause of death. She reported to police that a group of men killed Anthony Herrera after they invaded their home looking for drugs and found none. Police investigation into the claim by Brannon led to nowhere. There was no evidence to support the story. Instead, all evidence was pointing towards her. Police arrested Brannon and charged her with the murder of her common-law-husband. She chose to stick to her story during trial. She told the court that a group of men came to their Burrell Boom home looking for drugs they thought Herrera had that belonged to them. When Herrera did not come up with the drugs, they chopped him up and left him to die. Brannon was spared by the men. The jury did not believe her story as the evidence presented by the prosecution proved beyond a reasonable doubt that she was responsible for Herrera’s death.

Escalation and De-escalation of tensions between Belize and Guatemala
It made the headlines on all the local media houses when the sudden escalation of tensions between Belize and Guatemala unfolded late last week. So, if readers are wondering how things got so out-of-hand so quickly to the point that there was almost an armed confrontation between militaries of both countries, we’ve put together a timeline of events. While the nation was focused on the opening of the Sarstoon Forward Operating Base a joint patrol of BDF soldiers and rangers from the Friends for Conservation and Development were in the Chiquibul Forest in an area known as Cebada. That was around 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 20, and the patrol was located 380 meters east of the Border in Western Belize. They had only just detained a Guatemalan man because he was conducting illegal farming about 2 hours earlier. The BDF say that they came under hostile fire in the dark, and they were forced to defend themselves. They took aim in the direction from where the gunshots had been fired, and they returned fire. 13 year-old Julio Rene Alvarado Ruano was killed, and his 11 year-old brother Carlos Alvarado Ruano Jr. was injured along with his 48 year-old father Carlos Alvarado Ruano Sr. They managed to flee the area and they received medical treatment at a hospital in Melchor De Mencos.

Belize’s internet providers make history
All Internet providers in Belize have come together to form a non-profit company called the Belize Internet Exchange Point (BIXP) in order to vastly improve internet based services in the country. BIXP was launched on Wednesday, April 16, making Belize the only country in the Caribbean in which all Internet providers are connecting at the same exchange point. An Internet exchange point is a physical infrastructure through which Internet service providers and content delivery networks exchange Internet traffic between their networks. Before the BIXP switch was flipped, traffic from Belize had to go through international points. At the launch on Wednesday, Bevil Wooding, Internet Strategist contracted by the Public Utilities Commission, did his best to explain the importance of a local internet exchange point to a group of laymen. “Imagine you want to get sugar across the fence to your neighbour,” said Wooding, “you had to take the sugar, put it on a plane to Miami and from Miami it would be shipped back to your neighbour.” One does not need to be genius to understand how inefficient that is. “With BIXP,” explained Wooding, “you can now take that sugar and hand it to your neighbour across the fence.”

Belize/Guatemala: OAS will Conduct Independent Investigation into the Death of Guatemalan Minor
The Organization of American States (OAS) will conduct, at the request of the governments of Belize and Guatemala, an independent investigation of the April 20 incident that led to the death of the Guatemalan minor Julio René Alvarado Ruano and in which his father and brother were wounded. The Secretary General of the OAS, Luis Almagro, after receiving formal requests from both governments, confirmed to authorities from the two countries that he will proceed immediately with the identification and deployment of the appropriate experts to carry out the investigation as soon as possible. At the request of both sides, the investigation will be carried out independently from the work of verification taking place at this time.

Justice for Christie! Life Imprisonment for Osmar Sabido
“If you do something you need to pay for what you have done, especially to an innocent person,” said a relieved Marie Carrasco after her daughter’s killer was sentenced to life in prison on Tuesday, April 26. Family and friends of the late Christie Carrasco, 22, finally have a sense of closure after Justice Herbert Lord ruled that her killer must spend the rest of his life behind bars for causing her untimely death. Carrasco, of a San Lorenzo Housing Site address in Orange Walk, was killed on Monday, February 28, 2011, the night of a wake for her 103-year-old great grandmother. According to reports, she was with her family that night mourning the loss of her great grandmother but she was constantly being harrassed by her common-law-husband, Osmar Sabido, 27-years-old at the time. Relatives say that Sabido was an extremely possessive individual who always wanted Christie with him.

Bastic busted with weed
Belizean artist Leslie Jenkins, 26, better known as Bastic, must pay a fine in order to avoid jail time after he was convicted of drug possession on Monday, April 25. According to police, at about 1:18 a.m. on Saturday, April 23, police on foot patrol were passing Ambassador’s Lounge on Hyde’s Lane when they saw Jenkins release an object from inside his left hand. The officers approached and retrieved a bag which contained marijuana. The officers apprehended Jenkins and escorted him to the police station where the weed was weighed in his presence. It amounted to 6.8 grams of weed. He was charged for possession of a controlled drug.

Joseph Budna, prisoner in Guatemala, claims he was beaten because he is Belizean
Joseph Budna, the 38 year-old Belizean currently serving prison time in Guatemala for a conviction of kidnapping and escape, is trying to recover from injuries he suffered in the Guatemalan facility. It is believed that he was attacked by fellow inmates as a means of retaliation for the death of 13 year-old Julio Alvarado Ruano, who was fatally injured by the BDF on Wednesday, April 20. Guatemalan press reports say that it happened on Sunday, April 24, at Section 5 of the prison. A spokesperson for the prison says that 10 persons were caught in the middle of a brawl. 3 of those persons suffered stab wounds, and 2 more were injured. There is no official word on whether Budna was only beaten up - which is unfortunate by itself - or if he was also stabbed in the prison brawl.

Man detained in Cebada before killing of 13 year old boy pleads guilty to illegal entry
Jose Maria Antonio Reyes who was detained on Wednesday of last week just before the shooting death of a 13 year old boy in the Cebada area of the Chiquibul was arraigned in Magistrate’s court in San Ignacio. He was charged with illegal entry by the Immigration department. When he appeared in court on Monday April 25, he pleaded guilty to the charge and was fined 1,500 dollars plus 5 dollars cost of court which he was able to pay. He was then released into the custody of the immigration department which ordered him to leave Belize.

A BTV army?
On Monday we were treated to the airing of a very strange Press Statement via television. It was one that came from the Belize Territorial Volunteers (BTV) through one of it’s members, being the very vocal Patrick Rogers, who is also the leader of the Belize Progressive Party (BPP) .The BTV and the BPP have a very close relationship. Some say it is not a close relationship at all and that is because the BTV and BPP are one and the same. We may very well be inclined to believe those persons, because whenever we see either the BTV or the BPP it is the same individuals we see. In the aforementioned statement presented by Rogers he announced that the BTV will be employing the services of retired military personnel to train ordinary Belizeans to be on the ready to assist Belize’s security forces. For us, this sounds very much like the BTV/BPP will be getting its own army of mercenaries. He went on to further state that they were advising the government to take up the size of the BDF to 10,000 members and to take up the active volunteer members of the BDF to 20,000. These volunteer members will be available to join with the regular members should the need arise as the result of external aggression from Guatemala .

Transformation continues in Dangriga
The battle cry of the UDP in the last general elections was, “Let the Transformation Continue.” Indeed the transformation is evident here. Without a doubt, the old adage “Progress brings problems,” more often than not in some cases, proves to be accurate. The Dangriga UDP Town Council certainly is not immune to that old saying. While many say “we can’t eat cement streets,” a perfect response to the rhetoric would be to ask motorists and cab drivers their opinion. Motorists and cab drivers would definitely attest to the fact that previously they were spending hundreds of dollars replacing shocks, struts and other mechanical parts to their vehicles before the streets were paved. Phase Two of Dangriga’s Municipal Development Project is well underway with the paving of Gadsby Ramos Street and Trucking Boulevard from its intersection to George Price Drive. The highly trafficked streets connecting Dangriga proper to First and Second New Sites will be paved with double chip and seal paving. At each of the intersections, it will be triple chip and seal paving. Since these streets are mostly utilized by students during the morning rush hours, the project will be complete with proper sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, drainage,and speed bumps. Upon completion, it is expected that the area prone to flooding and drainage issues during the rainy season will be alleviated.

The route to the International Court of Justice
Experts and Organizations from both Belize and abroad are increasingly suggesting that the International Court of Justice is a viable route to take for the attainment of peace and tranquility between Belize and Guatemala. These suggestions have only been strengthened by the recent unfortunate incidents on Belize’s border with Guatemala. As the main judicial organ of the United Nations-UN, the International Court of Justice ICJ based in the Hague turned 70 on Wednesday of last week, having kept the peace at such diverse places as Africa and South America. Originally the Court was busy with land or maritime boundary issues, but from the 80s it has been called upon to deal with disputes concerning the use of force between States. The ICJ – the successor to the Permanent Court of International Justice – began its work in April 1946, in the aftermath of World War II. It comprises 15 judges, who are each elected for nine-year terms by the UN General Assembly and the Security Council. Today the World Court is tasked with settling legal disputes submitted by States and with giving advisory opinions on legal questions that authorized UN and specialized agencies refer to it.

Johnny remembers the old snakes that bit him
There is an old phrase that goes like this “once one is bitten by a snake, one then becomes afraid of lizards.” And by the way the PUP leader has been getting rid of people, we can only believe that he was bitten by quite a few snakes during those three years when he was the leader of the PUP the first time around from 2008 to 2011. It seems like anybody in that party, anyone who dares to show that they have one iota of having a spine, will get down and smashed to a pulp. The latest PUP to suffer that faith at the hands of Johnny has been former Ambassador Dr. Assad Shoman. Now it is not that we are any fans of Shoman, but we have to admit that the gentleman speaks his mind and in a sense he is a scholar when it comes to the Belize\Guatemala relations. This gentleman is a Lawyer by training, so he understands legal jargon. He has been engaged in some sort of a way on the Belize\Guatemala scene for around FORTY-TWO years. Many of those years he was either Belize’s Foreign Minister, Ambassador or some sort of Point-man for the PUP. Assad has also done a great deal of research, has written and published those writings on the topic.

Maximum fine for Noh Mul destruction
Denny Grijalva, his wife, Emelda, his employee, Javier Nunez, and his business, De-Mars Stone Company, have been handed the maximum penalties under the law for the destruction the Noh Mul Maya Temple in San Pablo Village, Orange Walk. Each defendant has to pay fines to a total of $6,000 each. That’s a total of $24,000 that these convicted persons have to compensate the Government for the destruction of this Natural monument. Their sentencing hearing happened on Thursday, April 21 in the Belize City court room of Chief Magistrate Ann Marie Smith. She allowed the prosecutor, Leeroy Banner, to call Dr. John Morris, the Director of Archaeology at the National Institute of Culture and History (NICH), to stand. The purpose of his sworn testimony, after the case had concluded, was to provide an impact statement, as the aggrieved party in this destruction. Dr. Morris explained to the court that the destruction at Noh Mul site was complete, and their attempts to salvage whatever cultural or archaeological knowledge after the fact was fruitless. He told the court that it is not possible to put a value on the destruction of a Mayan Archaeological site such as this one. He also pointed out that this destruction has caused the country of Belize quite a bit of negative publicity because of the Government’s inability to protect natural patrimony as important as this Mayan Archaeological site.

Rural Softball competition opens this Sunday in Lord’s Bank
The Belize Rural Softball Association 2016 senior female competition will commence on Sunday 10th April, at 9:00 am out in Lord’s Bank Village in the Belize District, with the traditional showcase marathon. This year’s marathon competition will feature the seven teams that will be participating in the regular competition. The teams that will be competing in the competition are Lord’s Bank Sunrise, Double Head Cabbage, Sandhill, Burrell Boom, UB Jaguars, Flowers Bank Easy Does It and Lord’s Bank (new entrant). The champion and sub-champion of the Belize Rural Softball Competition will join the other champions and sub-champions of the affiliated associations that makes up the Belize Softball Federation in August for the National Women’s Softball Championship.

Instigation & Provocation: Analysis of the recent crisis
Guatemala’s deployment of troops at the border is indeed a cause for deep concern. Who and what caused the escalation? The crisis? That is the question we need to be asking ourselves! Knowing what caused the problems may very well prevent future difficulties; especially with BTV’s April 30 plans. Our first and best clue comes from Brackett’s Freudian slip: “What is actually restraining our officials from escalating this issue?” The anti-good government group had hoped to use the issue to gain sympathy votes at election time. They did get PUP, BPP, VIP, and a very few Union leaders, although not the rank and file; to jump on the band wagon. They had no problem recruiting some so-called ‘media personalities.’ Mose gave birth to, and then nursed; a personal beef so he was extremely easy. He also brought along the tiny fraction of his staff who shamelessly call themselves ‘Kremites.’ Mai made sure that Channel 5 and the rabid PUP sympathizers, were on board. The losing parties – PUP, BPP, VIP, TPP…were all well represented. Perez, another rabid PUP, secured a seat on the wagon for SATIM. So-called activists’ groups,’ headed by failed partisan political candidates like Wil and De-la-Fuente were only too happy to jump on board also.

Rare hump back whale dies after being caught in gill net
After struggling in Belizean waters for approximately a month or a little more, a 30-foot long Humpback whale died off the coast of Barranco Village on Monday, April 25. It is believed that it struggled to death after having been caught in gill nets in those southern waters of the Caribbean Sea. As readers are aware, Barranco Village is one of the last locations in Toledo just before reaching the Southern Border of the Sarstoon River. It is well-known that illegal fishing occurs in those parts, and the scientists from Oceana Belize believe that these nets were set by illegal Guatemalan fisher folks. Oceana Belize’s investigation into the whale’s last days alive is that there were multiple sightings of it in the waters near the Big Creek Port, Sciopio Caye, the Port Honduras Marine Reserve, and Riversdale.

Words of Life with Barry Fraser
Many of our youth are involved in drugs, alcohol, and behaviors inspired by movies and television shows. These portray a fast pace life that is throwing away our traditional values and morals. Many parents have done all they know to raise their kids right, but their children follow their friends, rather than the values their parents gave them. For those who have younger children, you still have a chance to lay a foundation for a happy, harmonious family. Children and youth need their parents’ love, time, and attention. Even with older children and youth, it’s not too late to give them these essentials. There is a promise in Isaiah 54:13, “All your children will be taught by the Lord God, and great will be their peace.” Pray to God for your children, and believe that the Holy Spirit will direct them.

Man crushed at Santander
A man has been crushed by heavy equipment at Santander. Guatemalan driver, Luis Felipe Rivera at Santander Sugar Mill and resident on the same compound, reported that on Monday of this week at 11:52 am, he was driving a harvester machine when he accidentally went over another fellow worker. The machine that the 21 year old Luis Felipe drives processes cane by first chopping it, and then taking the material through another chopping area into the thrash extractor, where it is then pulled up the elevator into the trailer. Luis Rivera was alerted by a co-worker driving a tractor that was pulling the trailer, who informed that a human body was on the elevator of his machine. Luis Felipe immediately stopped and made checks and discovered the lifeless body of a Hispanic descent male person on the elevator. The human body had a crushed head, with both feet and hands cut off, and a large cut to the abdomen area.

Darrell Mayen, Jr. gets 8 years for attempted murder
Darrell Mayen Jr., 22, has been sentenced to 8 years imprisonment after he was convicted of the attempted murder of Rafael Caceres, a 32-year-old tour guide, by Justice Troadio Gonzalez in a trial without jury on Friday, February 12. Mayen was accused of trying to kill Rafael Caceres back in August of 2010. The incident occurred on August 21, 2010, at the corner of Woodpecker Street and Fabers Road. Caceres was shot at several times but only one shot caught him in the back. The bullet left him crippled for life but he survived. During the trial, Caceres testified that he had just left a Chinese shop and was heading home walking on Woodpecker Street when he realized that someone was behind him. When he looked back he saw Mayen pointing a gun at him from a distance of seven to eight feet. Caceres began to run and Mayen opened fire. As he tried to jump over a fence, Caceres said he felt a burning sensation and knew that he had been shot. He fell to the ground and while he was lying there Mayen stood over him and fired four more shots at him. Caceres was able to positively identify Mayen as his shooter that day.

Tyrone Myers Accused of Burglary
Tyrone Myers, 26, has been charged with one count of burglary after police lifted his finger prints from the home of Matthias Mariano, which was broken into on February 1, 2016. According to police report, between 8:15 and 9:15 p.m. on Monday, February 1, Mariano’s home at #4135 Curassow Street was burglarized and his Samsung cellular phone was stolen. CIB scenes of crime personnel visited the area and fingerprints were lifted from the scene. They matched that of Tyrone Myers who was later arrested and charged with burglary.

San Pedro Tiger Sharks in basketball finals for third straight year
The 2016 National Elite Basketball League will commence its championship round, which will utilise the best of three format on Friday 29th April, at the Belize Elementary School Auditorium between the top seed in this year’s competition, the Smart Belize Hurricanes and the two- time defending champions the San Pedro Tiger Sharks. On Thursday 21st April, out at the University of Belize Gymnasium in the City of Belmopan, the two- time defending champions, the San Pedro Tiger Sharks defeated the number two seed into the playoffs the Belmopan Bandits by the score of 58-55. The top scorers for the San Pedro Tiger Sharks were Tyrone Edwards who experienced his best offensive game this year, when he scored 19 points, 4 assists and 3 steals; Gene Myvett contributed 11 points, 10 rebounds, 5 steals and 2 assists; Andrew Ortiz who scored 10 points and had 12 rebounds.

C-Ray held cycling event
The C-Ray Cycling club in conjunction with Smart held a cycling race on Sunday 24th April, 2016. The race commenced and concluded in front of Leslie’s Imports at Mile 2 on the George Price Highway. The Elite Race started at 8:00 am where some 30 cyclists travelled to mile 35 and then back to Leslie’s Imports. In the elite category, the first rider to cross the finish line was Giovanni Lovell of Digicell 4G Elite. Lovell received $350.00 for his first place finish. The second rider to cross the finish line was Henry Moriera of Smart and he received $250.00, third place went to Tarique Flowers of Benny’s Megabytes and he received $150.00 for his prize, fourth place went to Phillip Leslie of Benny’s Megabytes and he received $100.00 while fifth place went to David Henderson of Benny’s Megabytes and he received $75.00 for his prize. The other finishers in the elite category included Joel Borland of Digicell 4G Elite and he was followed by Erwin Middleton also of Digicell 4G Elite, and he was followed by Quinton Hamilton who is unattached and he was followed by Angel Tzib of BECOL and then by Mark Staine of Smart.

Farron Louriano National Elite Basketball League regular season Most Valuable Player
The National Elite Basketball League has released the names of the players who have captured the Individual Awards during the 2016 Season. The league’s top scorer was Farron Louriano from the Smart Belize Hurricanes who averaged 21.48 points per game. The leading rebounder was Macario Augustine from the Dangriga Warriors and he grabbed 14.46 rebounds per game. Gene Myvett from the San Pedro Tiger Sharks captured the Most Assists title, and his total is 4.67 assists per game. The Coach of the Year award went to Dangriga Warriors’ Matthew Smiling, while Macario Augustine was also named the Defensive Player of the Year. The Rookie of the Year award went to Smart Belize Hurricanes’ Glency Lopez. The prestigious Most Valuable Player Award for the regular seas went to Farron Louriano of the Smart Belize Hurricanes.

Muslim Community girls and St. John’s Primary boys won Belize City Primary Schools Softball
The 2015-2016 Belize City Primary Schools Softball competition came to an end on Monday 25th April, 2016, with the championship game in both the girls’ and boys’ competition. In the girls’ championship game, Muslim Community School edged out St. Luke Methodist School by the score of 5-4. The winning pitcher was Misty Ciego and the losing pitcher was Samantha Foreman. In the boys’ championship game, St. John’s Primary School defeated St. Luke Methodist School by the score of 10-3. The winning pitcher was Maleek Wagner and the losing pitcher was Christopher Hower. On Thursday 21st April, three games in the semi-final round were played at the Rogers Stadium. In the first of two games in the girls’ competition, Muslim Community School eliminated Central Christian School by the score of 24-4. The winning pitcher was Misty Ciego and the losing pitcher was Leonelli Sedacy.

Crooked Tree Government School girls and St. Luke Methodist School boys capture Belize District Primary Schools Softball title
The 2015-2016 Belize District Primary Schools Softball competition came to an end on Wednesday 27th April, 2016, at Rogers Stadium with the championship being played in both the girls and boys competition. In the girls’ championship game, Crooked Tree Government School defeated Belize Rural Primary School by the score of 5-2 to re-capture the Belize District Primary Schools Softball Title. The winning pitcher for Crooked Tree Government School was Amanda Gillett while the losing pitcher was Sandy Moody. In the first game played, Crooked Tree Government School won over Muslim Community School by the score of 10-8. The winning pitcher was Kyra Gillett and the losing pitcher was Misty Ciego. In game two, Belize Rural Primary School defeated St. Luke Methodist School by the score of 6-1. The winning pitcher was Sandy Moody and the losing pitcher was Samantha Foreman.

Breaking Belize News

African, Caribbean and Pacific Group issues resolution on Belize-Guatemala dispute
The Council of Ministers of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group (ACP) issued a resolution today in support of Belize as it relates to the recent tensions with Guatemala as a result of the death of a Guatemalan minor who was shot by the […]

Two Guatemalan nationals murdered in suspected drug transaction
Details are only starting to emerge and information is still hard to come by but reports from Benque Viejo del Carmen indicate that two men, both Guatemalan nationals, were shot to death a short time ago in a suspected drug transaction gone bad. Breaking […]

Interview cancelled by Guatemalan press after Wil Maheia refuses to do it on Guatemalan soil
According to information reaching our news room, an interview with Wil Maheia of the Belize Territorial Volunteers (BTV) and Orlando De La Fuente of the Northern Territorial Volunteers (NTV) was cancelled by Guatemalan news reporters this morning. Maheia stated that the interview with Guatemala’s […]

Mainly fair, warm and dry weather prevails
The National Meteorological Service of Belize is predicting sunny skies with cloudy spells today and partly cloudy skies tonight with little or no rainfall. Winds will be blowing from the East-Southeast at 10-20 knots and the sea state will be moderate. High temperatures today […]

Blogs

A Trip Up To Camp: Cayo Frances Farm & Fly – Dogs and SUPs
Yesterday I headed up to camp. The almost-open Cayo Frances Farm & Fly Fishing camp on the leeward side of the island. Not just a farm, not just a fly fishing hang-out but a beautiful spot for reading, camp fires, hammock lounging, sunsets, star gazing, S’mores and now SUPs and kayaks. (My overnight trip.) Up past “Secret Beach” and passing the gorgeous sand bars to a little cut in the mangroves- an entrance to the huge Cayo Frances lagoon. We pulled up to the dock and unloaded. And I went over to admire the new paddle boards and kayaks. And they boards to admire…good grief they are gorgeous. Made by the company, Boteboards. Many set up for fishing…some just for paddling. What a super fun way to go out into the lagoon or out to one of the sandbars for lounging.

He was emaciated and scared...meeting Kamal
The first time I held Kamal was on January 28, 2016. He was a young spider monkey confiscated from the illegal pet trade, and estimated to be about eight months old, very similar in age to Cas, the other young spider monkey in the Primate Rehabilitation Centre at Wildtracks. During my first two and a half months at Wildtracks, before Kamal arrived, I was a part of the six-person Nurseryteam caring for Cas and the other nursery monkeys. Cas was thriving at Wildtracks, learning new life skills and gaining more confidence every day. After working with Cas, meeting Kamal the day after his confiscation was a shock - he was emaciated, scared, and extremely confused. He had a bad case of scabies that left him with no hair on his tail, arms, and legs, and a bloated belly from worms. It is very hard to put the experience into words. He felt fragile, weak, and uncomfortable. He was nothing but skin and bones. During the initial transfer from Emma (who provided the first hours of care for him) to me, he was very upset. He settled after a few minutes, but every new movement I made was unsettling for him. The good news, however, was that he had been removed from the environment that had resulted in his condition, and he could now begin his recovery.

Mayan Temples of Belize - A Short Guide
The Mayan Civilization dates as far back as 2,600 BC, making the Maya people the oldest ethnic group in Belize. This ancient civilization is regarded for their highly developed writing system, sophisticated calendar, and elaborate architecture. One of the most recognizable and unique accomplishments of the Mayas are the structures found at Mayan Sites across Belize. These sites were once ceremonial and administrative centers, which featured plazas, ball courts, market places, and large temples used in various ancient ceremonies and practices. Today, they are frequented by locals and visitors who explore the now uninhabited location, learn about the history of the Mayas that once occupied the area, and of course, ascend atop the Mayan Temples. But, before someone ventures up one of these temples, it’s advised to be well-prepared for the adventure. Exploring Mayan Temples can prove to be challenging without the proper footwear. It’s recommended to wear a comfortable, yet durable pair of sneakers. Cool, light clothing are ideal options for all the exploration that will be done. Don’t forget to keep hydrated with a refreshing bottle of water. Packing fly repellent is a wise choice, considering the proximity to the Belizean jungle. Additionally, don’t forget to bring along your camera to record your journey. There are approximately 20 excavated Mayan Sites, with hundreds estimated to remain undiscovered. If you are not sure which Mayan Site to visit, here’s a list of several sites definitely worth exploring on your journey across Belize.

International Sources

OAS to conduct independent investigation into death of Guatemalan minor in Belize adjacency zone
WASHINGTON, USA -- The Organization of American States (OAS) will conduct, at the request of the governments of Belize and Guatemala, an independent investigation of the April 20 incident that led to the death of the Guatemalan minor Julio René Alvarado Ruano and in which his father and brother were wounded. The secretary general of the OAS, Luis Almagro, after receiving formal requests from both governments, confirmed to authorities from the two countries that he will proceed immediately with the identification and deployment of the appropriate experts to carry out the investigation as soon as possible. At the request of both sides, the investigation will be carried out independently from the work of verification taking place at this time.

Belize at the New Orleans Jazz Festival
What an incredible week this has been! After more than 6 months working with the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival to bring more than 50 Belizean artists and musicians to perform at this year's festival, I'm so proud and happy to see the warm reception our artists have been getting each time they've taken the stage. Thank you Jazz Fest!!! Thank you New Orleans!!! Looking forward to another great weekend of music!

The legacy of Deepwater Horizon
In Belize, not long after the Deepwater Horizon explosion, it was discovered that the government had made massive oil exploration concessions throughout Belizean waters, including areas inside natural monuments, marine reserves and national parks. Offshore drilling in Belize would threaten the country’s seven World Heritage Sites and the Belizean Barrier Reef, part of the second largest reef system in the world. In 2011, Oceana co-founded the Belize Coalition to Save Our National Heritage – an alliance that included 40 different groups. The Coalition collected and delivered 18,000 signatures to the Governor General’s office calling for a referendum on offshore drilling and exploration. When its petition was denied, the coalition instead organized an election of their own. The resultant “People’s Referendum” brought out more than 30,000 Belizeans, and 95 percent of them opposed offshore drilling. Unable to ignore public pressure, the government announced last December that it intended to impose a permanent ban on offshore oil exploration along the Belizean barrier reef system and within the country's seven World Heritage Sites.

New addition at Primitive Designs
In 2015, Rhonda and Ron Dacey took on a personal project in Caye Caulker, Belize – a place that is near and dear to their family's heart. The project is called Little Stars and it is to support the only affordable pre-school on the island. The principal is a single parent who often covers expenses out of pocket for the pre-school, and it is severely underfunded - meaning that they do not have money to cover daily expenses, and that often students go without daily necessities like food or water. The money raised for the project has been covering renovations on the bathroom, playground, interior, water systems and more - making it a beautiful staple piece on the island and bringing attention to much needed action in the area.

CARICOM Countries Seeks Ways to Strengthen Social Security
Countries within the region are strategizing ways to ensure sustainability of their respective social security schemes. Minister of Labour and National Insurance, and Minister of the Public Service, the Hon. Shane Gibson, said Wednesday that he was happy the agenda of the 27th CARICOM Heads of Social Security Meeting would focus on advancing social security in the Caribbean. Minister Gibson was delivering the keynote address at the forum, which takes place April 27-29 at Atlantis, Paradise Island. Participating Countries, including The Bahamas, are Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, The British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Guadeloupe, Jamaica, Montserrat, St. Christopher & Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & The Grenadines, and the Turks & Caicos Islands. The meeting also takes into account the global trends in social security and how these fit within the region, and at a national level.

Disaster Risk Reduction in the Caribbean
In the economic sphere an act, a habit, an institution or a law produces not only one effect, but a series of effects. Of these effects, the first alone is immediate; it appears simultaneously with its cause; it is seen. The other effects emerge only subsequently; they are not seen; we are fortunate if we foresee them. It is often espoused by some liberal economists and social scientists that the advent of a disaster should be viewed as positive – destruction can lead to an economic boom as it provides the government with an opportunity to spend more money in rebuilding efforts; thus stimulating the local economy. Simply put, although disasters cause widespread destruction, it can mean a burst of activity and revenue in the short term. However, as articulated by Frederic Bastiat, it is that which is not seen, particularly in the long term, which determines economic equilibrium.

10 Caribbean Nations Where U.S. Nationals Will Pay Less For Health Care
1: Belize. In Belize you will pay 97 percent less for health care according to World Health Organization data. Per capita public and private health expenditures combined in Belize are USD 259.50 while The United States spends $8,895.10. However, you could die 11 years sooner since data shows the life expectancy at birth in Belize is 68 while in The United States it is 79.

Fortis Inc Has Another Very Strong Trading Session
The stock of Fortis Inc (TSE:FTS) is a huge mover today! The stock increased 2.34% or $0.91 on April 28, hitting $39.88. About 1.05 million shares traded hands or 14.29% up from the average. Fortis Inc (TSE:FTS) has risen 6.91% since September 22, 2015 and is uptrending. It has underperformed by 0.93% the S&P500. The move comes after 6 months positive chart setup for the $11.37 billion company. It was reported on Apr, 29 by Barchart.com. We have $67.00 PT which if reached, will make TSE:FTS worth $7.73B more.

Videos

Wagerirate Drummers in the Belize tent at New Orleans Jazz Festival, 5min.

Dive 3 - Esmeralda Canyons, Ambergris Caye, Belize, 12min.

Belize 2016, 15min. Spring Break Study Abroad Trip UW-River Falls (All songs but the last one are from the mix tape of a Rasta man I met in Belize)

Diving The Great Blue Hole, 21min. The complete dive. Keep watching the ascent for some sharks that circle us from the abyss.

Rihanna is played 24/7 in Belize, 1/2min.

Diving at Roberts Grove, Placencia Belize, 2016, 5.5min.

2016 International Dinner Preview, 1min. A preview of this years Society of International Students at VSU dinner presentation with our hosts Alexandra Mejia and Merdan Meredov. As a fellow international student from Belize I must say it was fun being part of this years dinner.

B E L I Z E, 6min.

Belize ziprafting 038, 4min.

WACP.tv: Early in the Mourning - Feat Red Fox, San Antonio Village, Belize, 17min. There is so much to see and know about Belize and the villages therein. This video will give you an idea of the life of ordinary everyday Belizeans... ENJOY!

SNORKELING BELIZE - BeautyLovesTech #CarnivalCruise #GoPro, 4min. This video covers mainly the snorkeling part of our visit. We had fun snorkeling and the tour guide was really nice. It was my second time using my GoPro Hero underwater, and I have to admit it's not that easy to take underwater video that looks nice and smooth. There are a lot of fun things to do in Belize, like snorkeling, skuba diving, a nice beach, restaurants. We would recommend it for a nice combination of everything, all in one stop.

Belize, 4min.

Mike & Stu Fishing Adventure (GoFish Belize), 4min.

King Fishers (GoFish Belize), 57min.

Currents of Belize (GoFish Belize), 26min.

Our Belize Adventure 2016, 33min. Belize is an amazing country found in Central America and we were fortunate enough to get to explore it. From zip-lining and cave tubing to eating termites and riding sharks...we did it all! We hope you enjoy watching our adventures in Belize.

Bottom Reef in Belize, 1.5min.

Belize Bird Rescue, 1.5min. Here is the release footage of our biggest flock so far - 28 white-fronts! Most of them have been with us since 2014, when they came in as babies with clipped wings. They are former captive parrots that have been liberated from the illegal pet trade. They were transferred for release over a period of 3 weeks and each group spent a few days in pre-release before joining the rest of their flock. Many of them are already paired up - reports indicate that they're doing well!

Channel 7

Drug Related Double Murder Near Cayo
Two Guatemalan men were murdered in Cayo and police say it was as a result of a drug transaction gone bad. At around 2:00 this afternoon police were called out to a feeder road between miles 69 and 70 on the George Price Highway. They found 2 men dead - with gunshot wounds the head. One was shot once to the head, the other was shot twice. Here's what San Ignacio police said this afternoon. Supt. Richard Rosado, OC - San Ignacio: "On Thursday April 28th, 2016 about 2pm, San Ignacio police received information of two lifeless body on a feeder road off the George Price Highway between mile 69 and 70. Police visited the scene where the lifeless body of two male Hispanic decent individual with apparent gunshot wound to the back of the head were found. Our initial investigation revealed that the two individual are Guatemalan national and based on certain evidential material that were collected at the scene, it bears the characteristic of a drug transaction gone bad. The bodies were transported to the San Ignacio Polyclinic where it awaits a postmortem."

Wil Won't Bend, He's Going To Sarstoon
Last night, BDF Commander, General David Jones told us that he and other high level members of the Foreign Affairs and National Security Ministry were going to Punta Gorda to try to convince Wil Maheia and the Belize Territorial Volunteers not to go to the Sarstoon this weekend.

The Guats Says They Will Stop Wil From Entering Sarstoon
And while Wil Maheia is determined to head down the Sarstoon, the Guatemalans are just as determined to stop him. In an interview with Canal Antigua on Tuesday the Guatemalan Foreign Minister Carlos Morales assured the world that Maheia and the volunteers will be stopped if they attempt to go down the Sarstoon. While making his point he also reiterated the Guatemalan position that it is protocol for our BDF to ask for Guatemalan permission before entering the Sarstoon. The political directorate and the military command have both said they never agreed to any such thing, but Morales held to the hardline. Here are his comments on the upcoming BTV excursion and what the Guatemalans believe to be the status quo of the Sarstoon River.

Alleged Double Murderer's Trial Drawing To A Close
There was a shocking murder in Belize City on the last day of November of 2010. Businessman David Longsworth and Security Guard Edgar Ayala were killed in a very violent gas station armed robbery.

Yard Cutter Perseveres Despite Not Being Able To Use Legs
Have you ever had a really tough day at work, where you just feel like you can’t go anymore? Well after you see our next story, you may think twice about complaining ever again.

FM Morales Disparages BDF
And back now to Belize - Guatemala relations, we revisit a few more of the eyebrow - raising remarks made by the Guatemalan Foreign Minister Carlos Raul Morales in his revealing Canal Antigua interview. He had a lot of derogatory comments about the professionalism of the BDF – and went as far to make the very ugly suggestion that they are actually hunting Guatemalan farmers. Those of us who have been in the Chiquibul know how preposterous that it – when menacing inscriptions such as this have been etched into trees by the Guatemalan bandits who use the Chiquibul as the staging ground for outlaw operations. This one – which we just saw last week says, menacingly, “We are waiting for you.”

Morales Keeping Pressure On
On Monday this week, the Prime Minister reassured the nation that the immediate danger with Guatemala had passed. This was after he met with President Jimmy Morales on Friday and they both agreed to de-escalate tensions after the deployment of troops to the border. But in that same interview with Canal Antigua, Foreign Minister Morales, said that the crisis is not over.

FM Morales Claims Human Rights Violations
So on that same note, Guatemala is pushing to have Belize taken before the Inter-American Court of Human Rights. This is apart from pushing for a trial against the soldier responsible for the death of 13 year old Julio Alvarado. In that same extended interview with Foreign Minister Carlos Morales, he highlighted steps that his Government is taking to present a complaint before the Human Rights Commission.

Belize Looks To Commonwealth
And while that’s where the Guatemalans are going – Belize is looking to the Commonwealth for a diplomatic boost. The Secretary General of the Commonwealth, Baroness Patricia Janet Scotland, is in Belize tonight – her first stop on a tour of the Commonwealth Caribbean. She’ll stay through to Monday, and on Monday, the Prime Minister announced that Belize would be seeking diplomatic support through her office:

ACP Nations Support Belize
Belize is also looking to the ACP – or African, Caribbean and Pacific countries – for support. That’s a bloc of 79 nations which held their 103rd session in Senegal on April 26th and 27th.

Jazzfest Features Cultural Creators
Tonight, performers like Sweet Chico Ramos, Supa G, and Bredda David are getting ready for their weekend on the big stage at the New Orleans Jazz Festival. But Belize’s presentation at the jazzfest isn’t all about music; there’s an entire Belize pavilion where select artisans are also given their chance to shine. Courtney Weatherburne visited with them over the weekend:…

Canadians Help Mitigate Disasters
The Canadian High Commissioner to Belize Deborah Chatsis, was in country today to visit several Canadian projects. One of them was the Indigenous conference which we told you about yesterday. But while in the city today, she stopped by at the HelpAge Center on Wilson Street to present commemorative plaques to three disaster reduction projects which her government funded in 2013. It is a regional initiative that the Canadian Government heads in the Caribbean and the Belize projects received some $200 thousand Canadian dollars worth of funding. The three organizations that received funding for disaster prevention projects were Helpage, NAVCO and SATIIM.

Farmers First
We often take for granted those fresh vegetables and fruits that you buy at the market. But for every shiny sweet pepper, every glowing tomato, and every full head of lettuce, someone had to wake up before dawn every morning for months to tend soil, and nurture the plant. That's the job of a farmer, and every year the Ministry of Agriculture gives the best of them special recognition. Junior Farmer Eric Can Jr. is one of them selected this year, and he spoke to the government press office about the passion that drives him to keep on farming. Female Farmer of the Year was Maria Lara from Trio Village in the Toledo District; and Male Senior farmer was Ever Blandon from Valley of Peace.