Belize Times April 20, 2014 by Belize Times Press

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The Belize Times

Established 1957

The Truth Shall Make You Free

20 APRIL 2014 | ISSUE NO: 4891

Ernest “Dangalong” Thurton

Darrington Lauriano

Luke Cox

Saul Garcia

Alfonso Cruz

the Holy Saturday Cross Country race?

Bloody Streets!!

6 Murders in 4 days

Kevin Rodriguez

WHO WILL WIN

www.belizetimes.bz | $1.00

Belize City, April 15, 2014 On the same week Belize was named the 3rd most dangerous country in the world by the United Nations this week, criminal violence has escalated with six cold murders in just four days across the country. Four of those murders occurred in Belize City alone. The latest homicide occurred in the broad daylight on Tuesday afternoon. Well known cyclist, 41 year old Ernest “Dangalong” Thurton, had stopped by his aunt’s house in the Junesville Area when he was attacked by a gunman who fatally shot him in the back. Thurton, who is employed by Santiago Castillo Limited as a messenger, was delivering company payments in the form of cheques earlier, and it is believed that may have been the motive for the attack. The Police have not said if anything was taken from Thurton.

Thurton is not known as a troublemaker. He had stopped by his aunt’s home to ensure that it was secure. His aunt is in the United States, and Thurton had been securing the house. Thurton’s murder is the fourth in what has been a bloody chronology of violence which began on Saturday. Even UDP Minister Anthony Boots Martinez got a dreadful, up close view of the bloody street warfare which his Government has nurtured with their refusal to genuinely get young, frustrated black males out of poverty and socio-economic decline, when he witnessed a murder on Saturday evening. The Minister was playing “danimoes”, as he called it, less than 10 feet from the exact crime spot inside the ageold Mike’s Club, located on Regent Street West. 27 year old Darrington Lauriano, a known street figure who has had major brushes with the law in the past, had no idea that death had

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Murder Capital!

UN names Belize – 3rd Most Deadly Country in the World Belize City, April 14, 2014 On the eve of what has been the most murderous weekend for this year, a report issued by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) placed international scrutiny on Belize for its domestic problems related to crime and poor citizen security.

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“We will block US capital” Maya Leaders say they will “use all necessary action” to defend customary lands

2013 Champ Darnell Barrow

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Work at Marion Jones Sporting Complex Stalled!

The Belize Coalition to Save our Natural Heritage strongly condemns extension of US Capital Energy Ltd. Oil Exploration Permit

Belize City, April 15, 2014 There was nothing but shame and disgrace in the face of Sports Minister Herman Longsworth as he admitted that construction work at the Marion Jones Sporting Complex has stalled because the Government ran out of funds. Longsworth accepted fault saying, “government will have to take the blame for this most recent delay”. He then tried to piece together a silly excuse that it was because

April 15, 2014 The Belize Coalition to Save our Natural Heritage strongly condemns any action by Government which would result in the granting of permission for a continuation of work by US Capital Energy after expiration of their current permit on April 30, 2014. Clearly, any such actions would appear to be an attempt to circumvent the Court’s decision made on April 3 by Justice Michele Arana. Justice Arana ruled that the issuance of any new permit required free, prior and informed consent from the Indigenous Mayan Communities. The Coalition fully supports the Indigenous Mayan Communities and the Sarstoon Temash Institute for Indigenous Management (SATIM) in seeking an injunction to bar Government from “issuing, renewing or extending permission to drill for oil in the Sarstoon Temash National Park” without first seeking free, prior and informed consent. Government should be the shining beacon of following the Rule of Law and in protecting the human rights of its citizens. To ignore these basic tenets of a democratic society is to invite the abuse of citizens and authority, raping of our natural resources and anarchy. Furthermore, the Attorney General’s interpretation of the Court not quashing the existing permit, i.e. that the Court recognized the investments made already into the oil operation and the importance of oil to Belize, fails to provide justification for the actions being undertaken by Government. Revenue generation for the country is not incongruous with following the Rule of Law and respecting the human rights of citizens. The Coalition reiterates its call on Government to follow the Rule of Law and respect the processes for protection of the human rights of its indigenous citizens. We do not have to look further than our Latin American neighbours to see where the road is heading if Government continues to ignore the Rule of Law and the human rights of the indigenous communities to allow the oil company to have its way

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of the “budget cycle” and there being a “delay in payment”. This showed just how much Longsworth knows about Government work. The Government smart stream system actually closes prior to April 1st, which is the start of the fiscal year, and opens up right after. There should be no reason for any delays in payments, especially payments having to do with millions that were donated and are sitting in Government’s coffers. The reason there was shame and disgrace in Longsworth’s face was because unlike the slow-paced construction of the important sections of the sporting complex, he built a fence around Marion

Jones in record time, prior to becoming the Minister of Sports. The funds, in the tune of millions, were made readily available to him without any delays. Through his company, L&V Construction, Longsworth made a huge profit from the building of the fence. He then used the money to fund his political campaign. Today, six years later, the fence is the only complete section of what was meant to be an international-type sporting facility.

Arrogance on Steroids Belize City, April 15, 2014 The Minister of Health, the electrician Pablo Marin and his imported CEO, dentist Peter Allen, are hell bent on awarding the position of Director of Drug Inspectorate to the daughter of their UDP colleague, Erwin Contreras. Marin and Allen have ignored the position of the Pharmacists As-

sociation that Contreras’ daughter is not qualified nor adequate for the post. She has no experience in the Pharmacy industry, Peter Allen Pablo Marin has no qualifications in the field, and from all indicainterviews with the media, Allen actions, is politically appointed. cused the Pharmacists Association Despite the cautions, Marin and of being a special interest group with Allen say their decision is final. In an agenda.

PUP meets with powerful Latin American Leader

Marin’s excuse for hiring Danini Contreras was that she is the only qualified person in all of Belize. He said she is the only one with a Bachelor’s degree. SCAN HERE

The Belize Times

Established 1957

14 APR 2013

ISSUE NO: 4840

The Truth Shall Make You Free

www.belizetimes.bz

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serving Belize since 1957 as the longest continuous newspaper. Founder: Rt. Hon. George Cadle Price, People’s United Party Leader Emeritus

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GOB Bruk!

Government must follow the Rule of Law

LOCAL

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THE BELIZE TIMES

People’s United Party Leader Hon. Francis Fonseca and other Party officials met with Mr. Bernal Jimenez, the President of Costa Rica’s National Liberation Party and Vice President of Socialist International at Independence Hall on Friday, April 11th 2014. Mr. Jimenez is a well-respected Latin American leader. He leads one of the two major political par-

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ties in Costa Rica which just facedoff in a presidential election on Sunday, April 6th. PUP Leader Hon. Francis had an open discussion with Mr. Jimenez on political issues affecting both countries and the region. In the meeting also were former Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Said Musa, Deputy Party Leader Hon. Florencio Marin, Hon. Ramiro Ramirez and Party Chairman, Mr. Henry Usher.

EDITOR

Alberto Vellos LAYOUT/GRAPHIC ARTIST

Chris Williams

OFFICE ASSISTANT

Roberto Peyrefitte Printed and Published By The Belize Times Press Ltd. Tel: 671-8385 #3 Queen Street P.O. BOX 506 Belize City, Belize

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Email: belizetimesadvertisement@yahoo.com

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Exchange rate of One Belize Dollar

United States (USD): $ 0.50

Barbados (BBD): $ 1.00

Eastern Caribbean Euro (XCD):$ 1.35 (EUR) : $ 0.36

Sterling Pound Guatemala Quetzal CANADIAN DOLLAR (GBP): $ 0.29 (GTQ): $ 3.88 (CAD): $ 0.54

CHINESE YUAN (CNY): $ 3.11

Trinidadian (TTD) : $ 3.23

INDIAN RUPEE (INR): $ 30.21

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THE BELIZE TIMES

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Six Years of Neglect!

Toledo District, April 14, 2014 Residents of the Toledo District continue to wonder why it is that the Barrow Government has refused to carry out any kind of meaningful development since taking office six long years ago. Toledo West area representative Hon. Oscar Requena has been one of the loudest critics of the UDP Government’s neglect in the face of so much that needs attention and so many who are in need in his constituency. Just two weeks ago, at the 2014 Budget Debate that looked at the Government’s spending of

one billion dollars, Hon. Requena reiterated his condemnation for the lack of electricity expansion throughout the entire Toledo District. The PUP representative spoke with a thunderous voice as he slammed the UDP Government for having his people in less than acceptable conditions. He said that it was a major disappointment that in 2014 children have to be reading and studying under the dim lights of a candle. Hon. Requena pointed out that in the ten years the PUP was in office (1998-2008), in spite of the economic ups and downs, they expanded electricity to over 20 villages in the Toledo District. Poverty alleviation and community development were achieved with genuine efforts. Since the UDP took office in 2008, added the outspoken grass-

roots leader, the people of southern Belize are still waiting. One example of this neglect is an electricity expansion project initiated by the PUP in 2008. When the PUP’s term ended the project was underway and electricity posts had already been erected. It was expected that the project would continue under the new UDP term since the objective was to provide electricity to 10 villages whose residents were anxiously waiting. These communities included Selena, San Marcos, Santa Teresita and other seven villages. But in true UDP style, the project was halted and

abandoned entirely. Sources say this was because the new UDP Government did not deem it important. Today, those same electricity posts are still standing, but with no electrical fittings. The people of the nearby communities are still waiting. Meanwhile in Belize City, millions have been spent by the Government to pay the Prime Minister’s family who worked as private attorneys and also gang leaders. Now, in defense the UDP through its chief clown, Chairman Alberto August, is claiming that the project is too ambitious and that the PUP started it out of mischief. How foolish of an excuse is that?

PUP NOTICE Standard Bearer Convention for Mesopotamia The People’s United Party announces that it will hold a Convention for Mesopotamia Standard Bearer on Sunday, June 1, 2014.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

on the

The Meaning of Easter By Francis W. Fonseca This week as we prepare to celebrate Easter and offer our support to our Belizean Cyclists participating in the 2014 Holy Saturday Cross Country Cycling Classic, let us reflect on the meaning of Easter. In doing so, I read once again, the 2013 Easter Message of Pope Francis. Pope Francis says: “This is what Easter is:

It is the exodus, the passage of human beings from Slavery to sin and evil TO the freedom of love and goodness. Because God is life, life alone, and we are his Glory: the living man.” Pope Francis calls for peace in a world “divided by greed looking for easy gain”, a world “wounded by the selfishness which

threatens human life and the family.” He speaks out against human trafficking, violence linked to drug trafficking, and the iniquitous exploitation of our natural resources. Here in our own beautiful land of Belize, we see the greed, corruption, selfishness, violence and exploitation of natural resources, taking place each day.

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Scandal, Nepotism, Murders, Land and Rosewood hustle have become the norm. Our Belizean identity has been cheapened and bastardized by elected officials who continue to be defended and protected by this UDP Government. This blessed Easter let us pray for strength, wisdom and humility! Let us pray for our country and people! Let us resolve to stand united FOR Belize! WE CAN DO BETTER! WE MUST DO BETTER! WE WILL DO BETTER! “GIVE THANKS TO THE LORD FOR HE IS GOOD; FOR HIS STEADFAST LOVE ENDURES FOREVER.” A HAPPY, SAFE AND BLESSED EASTER TO ALL BELIZEANS!!!

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EDITORIAL There is Hope! The story of the resurrection of Jesus is one of the most powerful in the world. It is therefore much more than a story. To Christians, it is the foundation of their faith – showing that Jesus is truly the son of God and that he washed our sins with his life and blood, promising to return for his children. It is a symbol of Hope. Today Christians all over the world celebrate the great moment and the acclamation: “Jesus has risen!” It is a powerful message of hope and salvation. For this reason the Easter weekend is first and foremost a very spiritual time in Belize. There is a growing trend to mix this holy week with non-spiritual celebratory events, but by and large most Belizeans recognise the need to connect, or for some, reconnect, with their Church to pray and seek guidance. While there are many who would argue that politics and religion should never mix and indeed it would be correct for us to say that pastoral leaders are much better at explaining and interpreting the scriptures than politicians, all of us in Belize can find hope in this great Easter message. This is a message of peace and unity in a time when our nation is grappling with violence and the senseless loss of lives. If ever there was a time for our people to hear the message for us to love each other, and to be our brother’s keep, it is now. It is true that with all that is going on, some are weary from the struggles facing our nation. It is true, that the hardships some face are greater than others. Some burdens are heavier than others. But it is our responsibility to not give up on our young nation, which despite its trials, continues to have great promise. Now more than ever the example of service, sacrifice, peace, respect for each other and kindness is needed in our nation, and it starts with each of you. This time, which reminds us of Jesus’s selflessness, should compel us to reach out to those around us being affected by difficulties. Whether it be the single mother that has lost her job and is now seeking help. Or that child with no means of affording school. Or the senior citizen who has no family member to turn. The People’s United Party is very cognizant of its social and moral responsibility to the country and our people. Our social justice agenda is to drive our people out of poverty through meaningful education and the creation of opportunities that will give each and every Belizean that equal right to participate in the development of the country. Our objective transcends just politics. Our prayer this Easter is for peace in our land, for an end to the senseless violence and for us to respect one another. On behalf of the People’s United Party have a restful, safe and blessed Easter.

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Bloody Streets!! Continued from page 1 followed him there. According to Martinez, who is the failed Minister of Human Development and Social Transformation, he heard gunshots and his “security instincts” forced him to the ground. When he looked up, Lauriano’s motionless body lay in a pool of blood. The gunman has only been identified as someone wearing a white T-shirt. He walked right into the club and shot Lauriano from point blank range, then walked right out. No one else was injured by the gunman, but several persons suffered various types of injuries from jumping over tables and the verandah in an attempt to flee the danger zone. The second murder occurred around 9:30 on Saturday night, through Rhaburn’s Alley, which is a narrow easement that connects North Front Street and Victoria Street. Residents say that an unknown male person rode through the alley and simply fired shots at a group of men who were socializing. Several of the shots caught 57 year old Alfonso Cruz, who is employed as a heavy equipment operator. He was rushed to the hospital, but declared dead on arrival. The third murder in the old, deadly capital occurred late Sunday April 13th night. 18 year old Kevin Rodriguez, who was staying at a family member’s home on Curl Thompson Street, stepped outside only to be ambushed by a barrage of gunshots. Rodriguez was shot several times in the chest and legs. Police have not detained anyone for any of the three ruthless murders. Criminal violence linked with turfs and notorious personalities have become much more prevalent in Belize City, and in particular political constituencies led by senior Ministers of Government including the Queen Square, Port Loyola, Collet, and Mesoptamia divisions all led by Prime Minister Dean Barrow, Minister of Social Transformation’s Boots Martinez, Minister of Education Patrick Faber and Minister of Housing Michael Finnegan. The two other murders occurred in the Orange Walk District. They took place under very unusual circumstances. 50 year old Edison Johnson has testified to the Police that he was attempting to protect his property when he fired his 12-gauge shotgun at two strange individuals who drove unto his farm. Johnson said that his farm has been raided by thieves in the recent past, and he was trying to put a stop to it. The two individuals who were allegedly trespassing are 23 year old Luke Cox, a resident of Carmelita Village, and 24 year old Saul Garcia, of Rhaburn’s Ridge. They allegedly drove on a red pickup truck onto Johnson’s farm, unaware of what would follow. Johnson said that upon seeing the two men, he rushed out and yelled at them. They attempted to get away, therefore Johnson fired in their direction. The men were both injured, and Cox fell to the ground. When Police arrived at the farm, Johnson handed over the shotgun, two 12-gauge shells and his gun license. The Police combed the area, but didn’t find Garcia’s lifeless body until the next day about 300 yards from the farm. Under the instructions of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Police charged Johnson with two counts of murder. Johnson’s wife, Rosita, was devastated when she learnt that her husband would face criminal prosecution. She said that her husband has worked his entire life to build on the farm, and she doesn’t believe he did anything wrong with protecting it. Johnson was taken to Court on Monday and charged. His trial will resume on May 13, 2014.

THE BELIZE TIMES

The People’s United Party and the Belize Times Press wish all Belizeans a

Safe, Happy & Blessed Easter Holidays

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THE BELIZE TIMES

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More Fake Passports & Visa Cubans & Nigerian busted at Western Border

Patrick Joshua Aibaengbee

Joany Jaimes Gonzalez

Joel Jaimes Gonzalez

Benque Viejo del Carmen, April 15, 2014 There is no indication that the Ministry of Immigration plans to investigate how three men, two Cuban nationals and a Nigerian, obtained fake travel documents in an attempt to enter Belize through the Western Border. The Cubans, 40 year old twin brothers Joel Jaimes Gonzalez and Joany Jaimes Gonzalez, and Nigerian national 53 year old Patrick Joshua Aibaengbee, are accused of using illegal documents including fake passports and a visa. The Cuban brothers were using Guatemalan passports in the names of Nestor Bayona Carreno and Felipe Bayona Carreno, according to Belize’s immigration officials. The officials grew suspicious of the twins and upon checking their luggage, they discovered their real Cuban passports. The Guatemalan passports had been forged, with photographs of the brothers glued onto the passports in an attempt to trick immigration officials. In the case of Aibaengbee, he presented a Nigerian passport which appeared legit, but the Belizean visa he used raised serious concerns. Immigration officials say that the visa had a recent issue date (February 20), but it had an old visa stamp which is no longer in use. This drew suspicions and despite Aibaengbee’s protest, he was detained. The old stamp is only available through Belize’s official immigration stations, such as its embassies. When the three men appeared in Court on Monday, April 14th, 2014, Aibaengbee pleaded not guilty. The Cuban brothers, however, accepted guilt and were quick to claim that “Everything was done voluntarily, we acted on our own. We regret and we do apologize”. That

type of confession should have made officials much more suspicious of the Cuban brothers’ activities, to find out if anyone else might have been involved in the facilitation of the documents.

Liquor License NOTICES Notice is hereby given that JOSE D. LOPEZ is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “1 Stop Country Shop”, situate at Maskall Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor Licensing Ordinance Revised Edition 1980. Notice is hereby given that HUINENG ZHANG is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at “368 Salon”, situate at #148 A Newtown Barracks, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor Licensing Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

But that doesn’t seem to be the case. The Gonzalez brothers were charged and fined for the crime of possession of a fraudulent document. They did not meet the fine of $1,000 each, therefore, were imprisoned until immigration authorities extradite them to Cuba. Aibaengbee was charged and remanded, since no bail was allowed as he is considered a flight risk. His case will resume on April 29th.

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THE BELIZE TIMESTIMES THE BELIZE

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ENTERTAINMENT

NEWS Benque Viejo

Marching Band wins 9th Love FM’s Band Fest

Benque won 1st place

Corozal Town, April 12, 2014 The Benque Viejo Marching Band won the wind instrument category in Love FM’s 9th annual Band Fest at the Santiago Ricalde Stadium in Corozal Town last Saturday. Band leader Andres Chimo led them through a medley of pop hits in their stadium presentation to win the $6,000 1st prize. Two time defending champs Corozal Community College won the $2,500 2nd prize, as well as the $1,000 prize for the Most Popular Band. The Santa Elena/San Ignacio Dreams marching band won the $1,500 3rd prize. In the drum corps category, the Belmopan Active Youths marching band came out on top to win the $4,000 first prize, as well as the Best Choreographed Band. The Holy Redeemer marching band won the $2,000 second prize and trophy, while the St Luke’s Marching band won 3rd place as well as the $1,000 prize in the drum line competition.

Location:Old Belize Adventure and Marina, Belize City

CCC won 2nd place

Daisy • • • •

Height: 5’ 3” Career Plan: Secondary Education Spanish Teacher Sign: Virgo Favourite Food: Pizza

TOP MODEL Clothing and Accessories provided by CATWALK FASHIONS

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Likes: Spending time with friends and family, enjoy helping others Lives in: Belize City Fav. Quote: “The strongest actions for a woman is to love herself, be herself and shine amongst those who never believed she could”

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Cor. North Front Steet & Queen Street Belize City

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THE BELIZE TIMES TIMES THE BELIZE

APR 2020APRIL

2014

FC Belize defeats

Police United FC 1-0

Devaugn Zuniga vs DannyJimenez

Police Clifton West attacks

Michael Whittaker scored FC Bze 1st goal

Belize City, April 13, 2014 The FC Belize stunned the top-ranked Police United FC 1-0 in the Belikin Cup closing season competition at the MCC Garden on Sunday. The up-to-then undefeated Police team took the game to the FC Belize with Clifton West, Danny Jimenez, Harrison “Kafu” Roches, Amin “Tacos” August and the Makin brothers, Devon and Andres, leading the attack, but the FC Belize goalie Elroy Rowley came up with save after save to keep them scoreless the entire game. Michael “Chenko” Whittaker just started this season with FC Belize and has not had as much playing time, but when he got the chance, he made Police feel his presence, blasting in the winning goal past goalie Keith Allen in the 39th minute. Police United’s coach Hilly Muschamp pulled out all the stops as Jeremy Archer, Lennox “Criminal” Castillo and Jermaine Jones came off the bench in the 2nd half, but to no avail. Even when FC Belize was reduced to 10 men when Jarret Davis was ejected from the ball game with a red card after his 2nd yellow card caution, the Police could not score. Other matches: Belmopan Bandits vs. Paradise Freedom Fighters - 1-0 Goal by Elroy Kuylen Belize Defence Force vs. Verdes 0-0

Clarence Tesecum won C Div champ Barney Brown won A div champ

Jim Scott won B div champ

Barney Brown, Jim Scoot & Clarence Tesecum win Weekend Warriors’ Cross Country

Belize City, April 13, 2014 Scotiabank’s Barney Brown, Team Santino’s Jim Scott and Clarence Tesecum won the A, B and C divisions of the Weekend Warriors’ annual Cross Country from San Ignacio finishing in front of Smart headquarters on the Philip Goldson Highway in Belize City on Sunday. Barney Brown clocked 3:59:04 on his 75 mile ride from San Ignacio to win 1st prize and a trophy. A Division Results 2nd Calman Williams – Team Smart 3rd James Frampton – Team Santino’s 4th Mike Lewis – Team Santino’s 5th Kent Gabourel – Benny’s Megabytes 6th Preston Martinez – Team Smart 7th Kenny Gladden – Team Scotiabank 8th Warren Coye – Team Santino’s- 4:00:07 9th Jack Sutherland – Team Digicell 4G 10th Kirk Sutherland – Team Digicell 4G B Division (from Belmopan) 2nd Antonio Escarpeta – Team B.C.B./F.T.Williams – 2:57:17 3rd Kaya Cattouse – Team SMART – 1st Female 4th Rigoberto Rivas – Team Santino’s 5th Isaiah Willacey – Team Digicell 4G 6th Mike Phillips – Team Santino’s 7th Perry Gibson – Team Benny’s Megabytes 8th Matthew Smiling – Team Benny’s Megabytes 9th Santino “Chief” Castillo – Team Santino’s 10th Charlie Slusher - Team Santino’s C Division 2nd Louis Usher – Team B.C.B./F.T.Williams 3rd Frank “Butter” Ferguson – Santino’s 4th Manuel Esquiliano – Truckers Posse 5th Devon Lozano – Team Digicell 4G 6th Steve Gill – Team SMART 7th Carlo Marin - Team B.C.B./F.T.Williams 8th Nelson Zayden 9th Igmar Perrera – Team Zitro 10th Wayne Arnold – Team B.C.B./F.T. Williams

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Muslim School girls & Crooked Tree boys are softball champs

Belize City, April 11, 2014 Essenie Ciego was named the Most Valuable Player as the Muslim Community School girls celebrated victory in the 2014 national primary school softball championships held at the Rogers Stadium last Friday. Ciego led her school team to an 11-4 win over the Richard Quinn girls and pitcher Eliciey Ramirez. In 3rd place, pitcher Eva Landaverde led the Carmelita girls to a 5-4 win over the Camalote girls. In the male competition, the Crooked Tree Government School boys won the softball championships held at the Rogers Stadium last Friday. Crooked Tree’s Ethan Wade won the Most Valuable Player award. Teammate Kristian Tillett allowed only 1 run, as the Crooked Tree boys won 5-1 over the Independence boys, hammering 5 runs off Camron Linarez’s pitching. In 3rd place was the Camalote boys who won 7-2 over the Aguacate boys.

Muslim girls

MVP Isenie Ciego

Lady Jaguars, Moen Stars, SQ Jr. Stars & Dragons win in volleyball Belize City, April 12, 2014 The Lady Jaguars, Moen Stars, SQ Junior Stars, Rebels and SQ Dragons posted big wins when the Belize District Volleyball Association’s 2014 competition continued at the Belize Elementary auditorium over the weekend. The Moen Stars had no trouble dispatching the SQ Junior Stars in game 1 on Friday night in 3 sets: 25-15, 25-16 and 2521. In Game 2, the defending champs, the Lady Jaguars had to go to extra points to win the 1st set: 27-25 over the Belmopan Mystics, but after that they

dominated the next 2 sets 25-10 and 25-7. On Saturday in Game 1, the Lady Jaguars also overpowered the Belmopan Warriors in 3 sets: 25-13, 25-17 and 25-15. In Game 2, the SQ Junior Stars roughed up the Belmopan Mystics 25-14, 27-25 and 25-23. In Friday’s nightcap, the Rebels dominated the defending national men’s champs, the Belmopan Blingz in 3 sets: 25-21, 25-22 and 25-21. In Saturday’s nightcap, the veteran SQ Dragons handled the defending Belize City men’s champs, the Jaguars in 4 sets: 25-19, 18-25, 25-6 and 25-20.

Kevanna Sebastian hits

Crooked Tree boys

Brown Bombers & City Boys enter U-15/ U-17 football playoffs Belize City, April 5, 2014 The Brown Bombers U-15 team and the City Boys U-17 are the No. 1 seeds in their respective divisions entering the 2014 Belize District Football Association playoffs, as the regular season closed at the MCC grounds in Belize City on Saturday, April 12. The Academy FC “B” team held the Pallotti FC girls to a 0-0 draw in the only game played on Saturday. The last remaining U-15 game between the Brown Bombers and the Hattieville United Youth Sporting Club U-15 was compassionately re-scheduled for Sunday, April 13, after the untimely death of promising, young footballer,

Academy FC girls

Pallotti FC team

Richard “RJ” Waight; but on Sudnay, the Hattieville United could only field 8 players and forfeited the game to the Brown bombers who finished the season at the top of the standings.

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THE BELIZE TIMES BY ORDER OF CHARGEE NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SELL

HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED a statutory body formed and registered under the Credit Union Act, Chapter 314 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2000, and whose registered office is situated at No. 1 Hyde’s Lane, Belize City, Belize District hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Chargee under and by virtue of a Charge registered at the Land Registry between Ismay Adeline Swaso(Chargor) and Alden Courtney (Borrower) and the said Holy Redeemer Credit Union Limited. HRCU will at the expiration of two months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the property described in the Schedule below. ALL offers to purchase the said property must be made in writing to HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED from whom full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained.

SCHEDULE ALL THAT piece or parcel of land comprising 501.722 square metres being Parcel 5237, Block 20 in the Belmopan Registration Section situate at No. 15 Mount Mossey Street, East Picinni, Belmopan, Cayo District, TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon, the freehold property of ISMAY ADELINE SWASO, surety for ALDEN COURTNEY. DATED the 4th day of April 2014 HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED 1 HYDE’S LANE, BELIZE CITY, BELIZE Phone: (501) 224-5644 Fax: (501) 223-0738

2014

For Sale By Order of the Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., a company duly registered under the Companies Act, Chapter 250 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition, 2000, and having its registered office at Cor. Albert and Bishop Streets, Belize City, Belize, hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Mortgagee under a Deed of Mortgage made the 18th day of March, 2011 between ADRIANNE SARAVIA of Hope Creek Village, Stann Creek District, Belize of the one part, and Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., of the other part, and recorded at the Land Titles Unit in Deeds Book Vol. 7 of 2011 at Folios 1517 – 1542, the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd. will at the expiration of two months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the property described in the schedule hereto. All offers to purchase the said property must be made in writing and full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained from the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd. SCHEDULE ALL THAT piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 109 comprising of 766.202 square metres situate in Hope Creek Village, Stann Creek District, bounded and described as shown by Plan No. 351 of 2010 attached to Minister’s Fiat Grant No. 351 of 2010 and also delineated on Plan No. 2080 Comp. No. 77 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon. DATED this 19th day of March, 2014. MUSA & BALDERAMOS 91 North Front Street Belize City Attorney-at-Law for Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd.

For Sale By Order of the

Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., a company duly registered under the Companies Act, Chapter 250 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition, 2000, and having its registered office at Cor. Albert and Bishop Streets, Belize City, Belize, hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Mortgagee under a Deed of Mortgage made the 13th day of June, 2012 between GREGORY CRICHTON and PATRICH GARBUTT both of No. 2 Piccini Site, Buttonwood Bay, Belize City, Belize of the one part, and Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., of the other part, and recorded at the Land Titles Unit in Deeds Book Vol. 15 of 2012 at Folios 339 – 408, the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd. will at the expiration of two months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the property described in the schedule hereto. All offers to purchase the said property must be made in writing and full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained from the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd.

Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., a company duly registered under the Companies Act, Chapter 250 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition, 2000, and having its registered office at Cor. Albert and Bishop Streets, Belize City, Belize, hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Mortgagee under a Deed of Mortgage made the 5th day of March, 2012 between NAZARIO ITZA JR. of San Jose Succotz Village, Cayo District, Belize of the one part, and SCOTIABANK (BELIZE) LTD., of the other part, and recorded at the Land Titles Unit in Deeds Book Vol. 5 of 2012 at Folios 1163– 1170, the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd. will at the expiration of two months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the property described in the schedule hereto. All offers to purchase the said property must be made in writing and full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained from the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd. SCHEDULE ALL THAT lot, piece or parcel of land being Lot Nos. 284 and 285 comprising of 609.718 Square Yards and 495.109 Square Yards respectively situate in Succotz Village, Cayo District, bounded and described as shown on Plan No. 1151 of 2003 attached to Minister’s Fiat Grant No. 1151 of 2003 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon.

SCHEDULE ALL THAT lot, piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 45 a portion of the land being known as “Dewdrop Farm” situate at Mile 11 ¾ on the Old Belize-Corozal Road in the Belize District of Belize as shown in Subdivision Plan registered at Entry No. 5325 Register No. 16 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon. DATED this 26th day of March, 2014. MUSA & BALDERAMOS 91 North Front Street Belize City Attorney-at-Law for Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd.

DATED this 4th day of April, 2014. MUSA & BALDERAMOS 91 North Front Street Belize City Attorney-at-Law for Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd.

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The Cross of Christ and Gender EASTER MESSAGE 2014

By Dr. Oliver Ottley, District Superintendent Emeritus (Church of the Nazarene) What does the cross have to do with gender? This is an unusual kind of Easter message, but a timely one I believe. For a springboard text, consider Ephesians 5:25; Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; (Scripture passages in this message are quoted from the KJV and are in italics). Can you see an important allusion to gender roles related to the cross in this Scripture? When the Titanic was sinking, the captain ordered that the women be placed in the limited number of lifeboats with a man to man each lifeboat to safety; the rest of the men went down with the ship, including the captain. That was not chauvinism - that was chivalry! The cross stands at the sacrificial centre of redemption and reconciliation, and the apostle Paul, inspired by God, cites the sacrifice of the Saviour as signifying His relationship with the Church and also as exemplifying that sacrificial love a husband should demonstrate towards his wife if and when necessary. The cross speaks of salvation and a call to be like Christ. With reference to His own sacrifice Jesus said, If any man will come after me, Let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me. The gender order, giving honour unto the wife as unto the weaker vessel, necessitates that commitment. She is not the cross; she is the loved one. Regarding the husband/wife relationship, that passage in Ephesians speaks first to the wife: Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands as unto the Lord… This speaks to the maternal component of God’s own image in which He created generic man. The paternal and maternal components are meant to mutually complement the whole image of God. …they two shall be one flesh. By the same token, men and women in the church in their respective roles are meant to represent the complementarity of God’s own image. Jesus taught His disciples, and us by extension, to say when we pray, Our Father who art in heaven… But God has at various times

revealed His maternal nature. For a couple of examples: As the eagle stirreth up her nest . . . and as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings... God created man (generic) in his own image, in the image of God created he him, both male and female created he them. A while ago in a meeting someone asked, “What is the image of God?” The answer from the leader was “No one knows.” Let me share what I found to be the inspiration, implication, and revelation in both the Old and New Testaments. When God created Adam He said, It is not good for the man to be alone, I will make him a helper suitable for him. But God did not form another man from the dust of the ground; He

took out that part of Adam’s side (not a rib) which was after the maternal aspect of His own image and He made the woman. Therefore shall a man leave his father and mother and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh (representing the whole image of God) The passage in Ephesians further says, for the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church… Hence we address God as Our Father which art in heaven… Christ died and rose again, thus becoming the Head of the Church. If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. There is a resurrection of the spirit of man before the resurrection of the body. It is that resurrected spirit (and you hath he quick-

13 ened (made alive) who were dead in trespasses and sins, that must now grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. For a fitting conclusion, contemplate these motivating lyrics from William Pierson Merrill: Rise up, O men of God! Have done with lesser things; Give heart and mind and soul and strength To serve the King of Kings. Rise up, O men of God! The Church for you doth wait, Her strength unequal to her task; Rise up, and make her great! Lift high the cross of Christ! Tread where His feet have trod. As brothers of the Son of Man Rise up, O men of God! Happy Easter! Happy Resurrection! God bless you!

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Murder Capital!

UN names Belize – 3rd Most Deadly Country in the World

Continued from page 1

The UNODC conducted a Global Study on Homicide to see which countries had the highest murder rates in 2012. Belize, which saw the second highest number of homicides in 2012 than over the past three years, topped the list from the Caribbean, was the 2nd highest in Central America and 3rd highest in the world. The study concluded that Belize had 44.7 homicides per 100,000 citizens in 2012. That was higher than El Salvador (41.2 per 100,000), Guatemala (39.9 murders per 100,000), Jamaica (39.3 murders per 100,000), Swaziland (33.8 per 100,000 in 2012), Saint Kitts and Nevis (33.6 per 100,000), South Africa (31 per 100,000), and Colombia (30.8 per 100,000). The UNODC noted that the situation in the crime filled areas is exacerbated by the fact that they have a low conviction rate for murder. Belize, again, falls among the worse with a conviction rate of about 3%. There was some other key information highlighted by the UNODC report. First, the conviction rate for murder is lower in the Americas at 24% in comparison to Asia (48 percent) and Europe (81 percent). Second, in the Americas, 30 percent of the homicides were linked to gangs and organized criminal groups. Third, the male homicide rate is the highest in the Americas at 29.3 per 100,000 males. This is almost seven times higher than in Asia, Europe and Oceania. And fourth, the homicide rate for male victims aged 15-29 in South and Central America is over four times the global average rate for that age group. This means that more than 1 in 7 of all homicide victims globally is a young male aged 15-29 in the Americas. Topping the World’s Most Deadliest Countries list is Honduras (90.4 per 100,000) and Venezuela (53.7 per 100,000). This latest report is further proof that Belize’s global reputation continues to be dragged through the mud by an incompetent and uncaring Barrow Administration.

PUBLIC AUCTION SALE BY ORDER OF THE MORTGAGEE HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED, a Licensed Public Auctioneer will sell on site the following property at the time as listed. At Front Street, Caye Caulker Village, Belize District on Monday, 5th May 2014 at 1:00p.m. FIRSTLY ALL THAT lot, piece or parcel of land comprising 451.347 square yards situate on Front Street, Caye Caulker Village, Belize District bounded on the North by the property of Leopold Franco and there measuring 96 feet on the South by the land of Belizario Martinez and there measuring 105 feet or thereabouts and on the West by land the property of the Roman Catholic Mission and there measuring 44 feet 10 inches (marked 19D) save and except a portion of the said lot, piece or parcel comprising 60.589 square yards (marked 19C) SECONDLY, ALL THAT piece or parcel of land comprising 91.069 square yards (marked 18A) being a portion of the land comprised in a Conveyance dated 6th July 1978, recorded at the General Registry in Deeds Book Volume 9 of 1978 at folios 95 to 1000 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon, the freehold property of ORVILLE J. HOLDEN and PATRICIA HOLDEN (Jointly) DATED this 10th day of April 2014

All sales are strictly cash and deemed final. For more information contact: HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED 1 HYDE’S LANE, BELIZE CITY, BELIZE Phone: (501) 224-5644 Fax: (501) 223-0738

THE BELIZE TIMES

Reid Drill baby, drill By G. Michael Reid Attorney General Wilfred Elrington’s recent mumbling and bumbling attempt to misrepresent the recent Supreme Court ruling against the government of Belize is pathetic and shows the government’s total disregard for the rule of law. On April third, Justice Michelle Arana handed a decision which basically affirms the rights of the indigenous people of Belize. The decision made two major declarations: (1) that the Government’s decision to permit drilling and road construction inside the national park is irrational and unreasonable, because it was made without the free, prior and informed consent of the indigenous Maya communities; and (2) that the permission which the Government of Belize gave to the company to drill in the Sarstoon Temash National Park breaches the legitimate expectation of the indigenous Maya peoples. Justice Arana went further and urged the Government to comply with its obligations under the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of the Indigenous Peoples to respect the rights of the indigenous Maya. In an interview given following the case, Attorney General Elrington made the following comments; “I read the judgment of Madame Justice Arana, her judgment was very clear and it was evident to me that she had given very careful thought to the matter.” In spite of that, Elrington went on to suggest that Justice Arana was not referring to the current treaty with US Capital. What then was Madame Justice re-

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for drinking, cooking, bathing, washing and fishing. Nigeria has what has been described as “one of the world’s most severely petroleum-impacted ecosystems.” The saddest part about the whole Nigeria situation is that while it continues to be one of the world’s largest oil producers, creating enormous wealth for Shell and a few corrupt politicians, over 70% ferring to Mr. Elrington? Isn’t this of Nigeria’s people live in abject very agreement what this case poverty. Is this really what we was all about? have to look forward to Belize? The case was brought against And even if US Capital strikes the government by the Sarstoon oil in the Sarstoon Temash, it will Temash Institute for Indigenous be years, if ever, before Belizeans Management (SATIIM) which repwill see any benefit. You can be resents five Mayan communities sure that we will see the detribordering the Sarstoon-Temash ments rather immediately. Maybe National Park. Opponents against we can learn from a letter written oil drilling have long been fighting by a youth organization in Nigeria against oil exploration on our Barthat reads: “Our rivers, rivulets rier Reef and in our National Parks and creeks are all covered with and reserves. Our Prime Minister crude oil. We no longer breathe however, has been quite clear the natural oxygen; rather we inhale lethal and ghastly gases. Our water The saddest part about the whole Nigeria sitcan no longer be drunk uation is that while it continues to be one of unless one wants to test the effect of crude oil on the world’s largest oil producers, creating enorthe body. We no longer mous wealth for Shell and a few corrupt use vegetables, they are politicians, over 70% of Nigeria’s people all polluted.” Oil means a lot of live in abject poverty. Is this really what money for a few people we have to look forward to Belize? but poses huge environmental problems for the rest of us. Most of the money pend on the environment for their that “drill they will”. It came as no from oil goes to the foreign oil livelihood. It is estimated that more surprise then, when in Friday’s barons and corrupt local politithan 1.5 million tons of oil has spilled news, it was announced that govcians. Our current leaders have into the Niger Delta ecosystem over ernment had gone ahead and realready shown their propensity the years. Many spills take place newed US Capital’s right to drill in for greed, corruption and blatant in sensitive habitats for birds, fish what seems a direct contempt of disregard of the rights and well and other wildlife, leading to further the Supreme Court’s ruling. being of our people. Let us think loss of biodiversity and, in turn, inThe major concern for not hard on this one Belize before we creased hardship on local commuonly the indigenous people but all find ourselves in a very deep hole nities. The spills pollute local water of Belize should be the damage to covered in goo. sources upon which people depend arable land and adverse effects on the environment and health of our people that will result from testing, drilling and especially from the extracting of oil. One need only check with the people of Ecuador and Nigeria about what has happened to their respective lands. In Ecuador, thirty thousand residents had to file a lawsuit against Texaco/ Chevron which they fought for twenty years before the case was finally settled. The charge was that the oil company deliberately dumped over 18 billion gallons of toxic wastewater and spilled some 17 million gallons of crude oil into the rivers and onto the floor of their precious rainforest. The Ecuadoreans were able to prove that apart from damage to the environment, the pollution from the oil business had caused a wave of mouth, stomach and uterine cancer that caused thousands of deaths, birth defects and spontaneous miscarriages. In February of 2011, a court found the oil company guilty and ordered them to pay 18 billion in compensation. Despite declaring profits in excess of 21 billion for 2011 alone, Chevron has refused to pay or to even apologize to the people of Ecuador. In Nigeria, the situation is even more disastrous and distressing. The Shell oil company, which recorded even higher profits of 31 billion dollars for 2011, continues to rape that country and create hardship for the millions of Africans who de-

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THE BELIZE TIMES

“We will block US capital” Maya Leaders say they will “use all necessary action” to defend customary lands

Toledo District, April 14, 2014 The Barrow Government has aggravated an already tense and flammable situation in the Toledo District with its arbitrary and flagrant Cabinet decision to extend a permit granted by U.S. Capital to continue its oil exploration on Mayan customary land. The decision came days after an April 3rd Supreme Court ruling which declared that the Government acted wrongfully when it granted the initial permission to U.S. Capital without any form of consultation with the Mayan people. On Friday April 11, Maya leaders met to look over the situation and two resolutions were passed. The first is that

In Memoriam of

Anastacio Marin

Sunrise: April 15, 1922 Sunset: April 14, 1992 Twenty-two years have passed I’ll never forget that day The day before your birthday Some rang to inform us That you’ve passed away The hurt is the same Like an open wound There are days that I don’t utter a sound Probably, we have forgotten your voice and your laughter, but the image of your face is still there for us. Sadly missed by sons, daughters, relatives and friends. Rest in peace.

they would launch another legal offensive with a challenge to the Government’s Cabinet decision and would seek an injunction to stop U.S. Capital from proceeding with any activities. Also, as explained by Greg Ch’oc, the Maya leaders agreed to take any other steps necessary to prevent U.S. Capital from en-

tering the Maya customary lands. “…The decision is that they will use all necessary action to block US Capital from entering their Maya customary land. Their resolve is fortified by the decision and ruling of Justice Michele Arana,” shared Ch’oc. In her ruling on the case brought against the Government

17 by the Mayan communities, Justice Michelle Arana declared that the Government should have consulted with the Mayan people before issuing any form of permission to use the land for any purposes. She described Government’s decision as irrational and unreasonable. Justice Arana advised the Government to comply with its obligations under the United Nations Declarations on the Rights of the Indigenous Peoples. U.S. Capital officials said they will continue their operations until someone tells them to stop.

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BELIZE TIMES WEEKLY

SCIENCE & TECH R

No option left but to suck CO2 out of air, says IPCC 14 April 2014 by Fred Pearce It is a beguiling idea: grow crops that suck carbon dioxide from the air, burn them to generate electricity, then bury the resulting CO2. The result? Less CO2 in the air, and less climate change. This idea’s time has come. The new report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), published on Sunday in Berlin, Germany, says “widespread” use of bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) will probably be needed to stop the world warming by 2 °C, the politically agreed danger threshold. That reflects the urgency of the situation. After 20 years of talk, the world is still accelerating towards climate catastrophe. Emissions grew faster between 2000 and 2010 than in each of the three previous decades. The IPCC blames economic growth, which now adds twice as much to emissions as population growth does. (The report does not cover the years since 2010, when emissions may have risen more slowly despite continued economic growth.) The heart of the report is a study of over 1000 scenarios of possible energy and climate futures. It lays out what scientists believe it will take to keep global warming below 2 °C this century. Achieving a better-than-even chance will probably mean at least tripling the proportion of energy coming from low-carbon sources, it says. The key is to generate electricity without emitting CO2. Low-carbon sources currently provide 30 per cent of electricity, mostly from dams and nuclear power. That must rise to 80 per cent by 2050, with solar panels and wind turbines coming to the fore. New forms of solar will also play a role . “Mitigation does not mean the world has to sacrifice economic growth,” says Ottmar Edenhofer of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research in Germany, who co-chaired the report. But the burning of fossil fuel must virtually end

Other cost-effective changes cited in the report include massive boosts to energy efficiency in industry and home heating, and reducing transport emissions through more efficient vehicles, more compact cities and more high-speed rail to cut air miles. (Image: Gary Tramontina/Bloomberg via Getty Images) That’s the right idea, says Brian Hoskins of the by 2100, unless the emissions are Grantham Institute for Climate Change buried using carbon capture and in London. “We already have the techstorage (CCS). nologies,” he says. “We should stop The report is neutral about nuwringing our hands and just get on clear power because of issues with with it.” nuclear waste, safety, proliferation Keeping below a 2 °C rise probably and public image. But it does support means keeping CO2 concentrations natural gas as a “bridge technology” in the air below 450 parts per million. to replace coal until renewables take We are already up from a pre-industrial over or CCS becomes widespread. 280 ppm to 400 ppm. Most scenarios

Record-breaking cable car for La Paz’s crazy commutes

the IPCC examined overshot 450 ppm and required recovery through “negative emissions” – BECCS, or some other CO2-sucking technology – later this century. CCS could be risky, but we may have no choice, the IPCC says. The report should galvanise the UN negotiators who are drafting a global climate deal to be signed next year. But the hottest topic from the report may be its backing for negative emissions and CCS. It was published in Germany, a country with geology, climate policies and skills that make it an ideal test bed for the technology (see “German energy crisis points towards climate solution”). But the German public hates CCS. Last week Jochen Flasbarth, state secretary at Germany’s federal environment ministry, told New Scientist that buried CO2 is seen as almost as bad as nuclear waste.

There’s no way a city like La Paz should be where La Paz is. At 3650 metres above sea level, the centre of Bolivia’s de facto capital lies trapped at the bottom of a sheer-sided canyon in the Andean altiplano. On the canyon’s lip, 400 metres above, is the former suburb of El Alto – the “high place” – now a million-strong metropolis in its own right and home to the highest international airport in the world. Previously the only practicable route for the 200,000 people passing between the two cities each day was a 15-kilometre detour by road via the head of the canyon – or a precipitous descent on foot down its sides past the makeshift brick houses of some of the cities’ poorest inhabitants. Now a little relief is coming from the skies. The first of three cable car lines passing up the side of the canyon was given a public preview this week. When completed the entire system will be 11 kilometres long – the longest urban cable car system in the world – with each line capable of carrying 3000 people per hour in each direction. A crazy commute for a crazy conurbation.

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