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The Belize Times
Established 1957
3 AUGUST 2014 | ISSUE NO: 4906
The Truth Shall Make You Free
www.belizetimes.bz | $1.00
Elrington wanted by Uncle Sam
Belize City, July 28, 2014 Another Elrington is wanted by the United States for criminal wrongdoing. Information released by the United States Inspector General has sent the “sabelo todo” Attorney General Sedi Elrington into deep hiding. His younger brother, Errol Glenn Elrington, according to official information posted online, is wanted by the United States Government for alleged major criminal felonies including racketeering, Medicaid fraud and health care fraud. The allegation against Elrington is that he falsely billed the Obama Ad-
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Murders keep piling up Clueless UDP has no real answer
“Dem treat we like dogs” CitCo evicts Commercial Center vendors!
Belize City, July 31, 2014 The UDP’s response to the deadly surge in violent shooting and murders has been weak and poorly-thought out. Their answer is to arrest bicycle riders for not using light and bells, and to remove Belize Defense Force soldiers from the western border and have them march with heavy
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FORT
Belize City, July 30, 2014 This chancey UDP City Council, which has already fired hundreds of workers previously working at City Hall under eleven years of tyranny with Zenaida Moya and now Darrel Bradley, has turned its wicked ways against
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Winston Whylie
GEORGE
SPORTS
SUMMER
Irene Suaso
Fort George Area Rep. Rt. Hon. Said Musa gives prize to summer camp participant
CAMP CLOSES
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3 AUG
THE BELIZE TIMES
2014
Rt. Hon. Said Musa, with participants of the summer camp
OPINION OUT Belize, Poorer under the UDP
!
23rd July, 2014
Belize City Belize
The Editor Belize Times Queen Street
Dear Sir, I don’t know who Hilaire Bennett is but your guest editorial of the 13th July, 2014 (Populorum Progressio) was right on the mark. It is a fact that Latin America and the Caribbean regions have the highest level of inequality in the world. It is also a fact that since 2008, when the UDP came into office the level of poverty increased dramatically in Belize. Consequently there is no way we are going to meet the first Millennium goal of cutting poverty in half by next year – 2015. According to the official statistics, when the PUP was in gov-
LOCAL 1 Aug
Murders keep piling up
ernment the poverty rate was 33% and when the PUP left office in 2008 the unemployment rate was down to 8%. Now after the 6 years of the UDP “Pro-Poor Policy” of patronage and cronyism, the amount of poor dependent people in Belize has escalated to over 43% and the unemployment rate is well over 20% and well in excess of 30% for jobless youths between the ages of 16 – 25. As the editorial points out, the much touted UDP’s Boost, Food Pantry and Conditional Cash Transfers are a farce because the entire program is politically driven for votes, many well-connected families who do not need it get help while the majority of the poor are forgotten, ignored and excluded. You see the underlying intent of all these social programs may be worthy and noble. The poor and marginalized Belizeans do need a safety net if they are to have any chance of escaping the poverty trap. But in Belize this program is failing because of political manipulation and the UDP avowed policy of excluding PUP or suspected PUP no matter how poor and deserving they may be. The next Prime Minister the Hon. Francis Fonseca should consider retaining these programs but remove them from the grip of any of his representatives or Ministers. One way of doing this would be to direct the resources over to an NGO/church body who are best able to arrange social assistance for the poor and needy with no regard for their political affiliation. Signed, Wil S.
Continued from page 1 artillery in hand through the streets of the old capital. Prime Minister Dean Barrow confirmed on Wednesday that his Government is clueless and has no new ideas to tackle crime. Barrow appeared nonplussed over the recent spate of murder. He spoke without urgency and simply said that the Police held a press conference to address that. That conference he alluded to was totally void of new strategies. Minister of National Security John Saldivar has been hiding in a hole, as bodies keep falling on the newly concreted streets. In the meantime, murders keep piling up. On Monday July 28th night, Winston Whylie, a well-known repairman who normally minds his own business was shot dead as he rode his bicycle on Victoria Street. Whylie was shot fatally in his mid-section. Reports are that he had been ambushed by an armed male person who was also riding a bicycle. While died while undergoing treatment at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital on Tuesday morning. Two days before, on Saturday, July 26th, city residents woke up to the news of a vicious and bloody home invasion on Mopan Street. It occurred at the residence of 52 year old Carlos Mayorga, a naturalised Belizean tacos vendor. Mayorga and three females, 42-year-old Alida Asencio, 21-year-old Sijihan Avila, and 19-year-old Karina Avila were at the home around 4:30am
3 Aug
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The Belize Times
Established 1957
14 APR 2013
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The Truth Shall Make You Free
ISSUE NO: 4840
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 EDITOR
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when two armed male persons entered the house and held them up at gunpoint. The men demanded money and threatened to kill if they didn’t get any. In fear that someone would indeed be harmed, Mayorga handed over $2,000 to appease the men, but instead he was ordered to kneel at the foot of a bed. While kneeling one of the men pointed a gun and shot him in the chest and back. The gunman then turned on the females and began firing at them. Alida Asencio was shot on the chest and abdomen, Karina was shot on the left arm and Sijihan was shot on the chest and abdomen. Alida who was in a critical state at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit passed away on Tuesday, July 29th. Police have no suspects for any of the murders.
4 Aug
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3 AUG
2014
The dangerous mind of Darrell Bradley
$1.4m debt to B.M.L. is “deliberate” Belize City, June 29, 2014 Mayor Darrel Bradley has broken the Belize City Council. The old Belize City phrase “weh di money gone” is facing Bradley as he defaults once again on payment to Belize Maintenance Limited. Bradley, who spends more time in Court doing his personal law business than at City Council has been on the news offering all kinds of false explanations of why there is no money at the City Council. The Mayor, who is an attorney, is playing with fire
Darrell Bradley and the city’s money with his foolish, braggadocios behaviour towards companies with whom the Belize City Council has legal and financial obligations. Despite already having suffered political embarrassment after he was dragged to the Court and threatened with jail time for lying to the Court that he would settle what the City Council owed to Belize Waste Control, Bradley is back to flaunting hard-pay behaviour, but this time towards the other sanitation company Belize Maintenance Limited. Bradley and the City Council owe BML over $1.4m. This is debt that has accumulated over time, as the Council has not paid BML for its services for the past eighteen weeks. If the Council paid regularly, the sum would not accumulate to such large amounts. But Bradley hardly seems to care. This week, he told media houses that the large debt “…has resulted through deliberate actions of the council”. The Mayor added that while he knows that he owes and must pay, he has no reason to pay now, or any time soon. The Mayor said, “I cannot tell them when they will be paid”. The Mayor’s hard-pay mentality has forced BML into serious cash-flow constraints. They are on the brink of firing workers to remain afloat. The Mayor, again, doesn’t seem to care. Bradley’s reasoning is that the Council is already spending “its money” on streets – and to him that is the priority under the City Council Act. The Continued on page 31
THE BELIZE TIMES
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THE BELIZE TIMES
on the
PENNER:
UDP JUSTICE By Francis W. Fonseca Belizeans across the nation were disgusted and angered by the decision made in the Belmopan Magistrate’s Court last week Thursday to dismiss the case brought by COLA via private prosecution against former Minister of State Elvin Penner for his role and involvement in the now infamous Won Hong Kim case. That anger and disgust is targeted at the UDP Government which Belizeans strongly feel has protected Elvin Penner and has stood in the way of every effort to have an independent, comprehensive inquiry into this disgraceful chapter in Belize’s history. Let us not forget that the
charge against Penner is that he sold our Belizean Passport and Nationality to an international fugitive locked up in a Taiwanese jail. Penner clearly did not act alone and many believe that other UDP high-ups were also involved in this matter and other similar arrangements which seem to have become the order of the day at the immigration department under this UDP government. Penner knows who these people are and what other forms of hustling are taking place throughout this UDP Government and that is why he was protected at all cost. The UDP made a calcu-
Hon. Joseph Mahmud sworn in as Standard Bearer for Cayo North Saturday July 26, 2014
L-R: Hon. Ivan Ramos, Hon. Rodwell Ferguson, Hon. Mike Espat, Hon. Oscar Requena, Hon. Joseph Mahmud, Party Chairman Henry Usher and Hon. John Briceno
lated decision to place their political interests ahead of the national interest. The UDP Senators voted for Party over nation and blocked an independent Senate inquiry supported by the Opposition, Churches, Business Community and Unions. The Solicitor General and the Commissioner of Police went to the Supreme Court to block an investigation of this matter. Even after a Writ of Mandamus was issued against the Commissioner of Police ordering him to carry out an investigation, there is no evidence
3 AUG
2014 to suggest he has done so. The DPP who so zealously prosecuted PUP Leaders in 2008, with only a statement from Dean Barrow, seems to have lost that zeal for prosecution even in the face of overwhelming evidence and is reportedly currently away on study leave. The Immigration Department and its Director have come under fire from the Auditor General in her preliminary report for their lack of cooperation. On July 24th, 2014 in the Belmopan Magistrates Court there was not a lack of evidence but rather a concerted effort by all the relevant state authorities to suppress that evidence and an absolute refusal to make that evidence available to COLA. The Belizean people must now understand very clearly that our Nation will not get justice in this case under Dean Barrow and the UDP. When you as a Belizean Voter go to the Polls to vote in any future election you must understand and appreciate that a vote for the UDP is a vote to protect Elvin Penner and to continue the cover up.
3 AUG
2014
THE BELIZE TIMES
05 5
EDITORIAL Barrow’s Gangsta Government Pound for pound, person to person, the Dean Barrow government is the most corrupt government in the country of Belize. Mr. Barrow would like the majority of Belizeans to believe otherwise. And the last straw that he keeps grabbing onto is that he personally has not been caught stealing or doing any secret dealings. UDP propaganda is that the previous PUP government was corrupt because of financial abuses at the Social Security Board, the Development Finance Corporation; the purchase of nationwide bus routes, and dealings with B.T.L. But check this out. Unlike Dean Barrow’s government the previous PUP established two legal commissions of inquiry and investigations. Both conducted their sessions in public forum carried live on radio and television. Both commissions were headed by well known UDP activists. A Senate inquiry was held on Social Security Board and headed by Godwin Hulse, parading at the time as an independent Senator. He was given all the time and resources he needed and the full cooperation of all government departments and agencies. He found no corruption. His report showed management lapses surrounding two or three mortgages for which the S.S.B. did not hold adequate security. The PUP government moved forcefully and ensured that land/properties were obtained as security for the loans. The D.F.C. Inquiry was of the same approach and results. The Inquiry was headed by Merlene Bailey Martinez, a bitter foe of the PUP government. She was assisted by none other than another bitter person, Lois Young Barrow, ex-wife of Dean Barrow. Lois was also President of an anti-PUP organization called Association of Concerned Belizeans and was a daily feature on certain call in radio programs attacking the PUP government. Soon as the UDP became government, Lois and her organization became silent. She went on to collect millions of tax dollars for special legal work approved by her ex-husband who just happened to be the Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. Lois is presently an Ambassador appointed by her ex-husband and collecting hundreds of thousands of tax payers’ dollars in Washington or New York. A crotchety old lady morphing into a diplomat. Like the S.S.B Inquiry the D.F.C Inquiry produced no evidence of corruption. Much was said about a D.F.C loan of thirty million dollars used to buy out all bus owners and their business for bus routes in an effort to have one national bus line. Not even Lois, digging for months, could produce evidence of corruption. But the false allegations and propaganda persisted. On the change of government, Dean Barrow, hard pressed to produce some evidence to bolster his years of false allegations, ordered the arrest of former Prime Minister and former Finance Minister. No investigation was conducted but the two men were taken to court where the charade quickly ended when the false charges could not hold up. What was the charge? That money sent by the Hugo Chavez-government was supposedly stolen when in fact the money was deposited in Belize Bank to pay a government guaranteed loan for Healthcare Partners Hospital. Barrow took Belizeans on a short ride, but like most of his stunts it was all smoke and mirrors and no substance. Remember the oil refinery which he promised to build shortly after the 2012 election?
By contrast, look at what has been going on under Dean Barrow Prime Ministerial stewardship. A long list of corruption, both real and perceived. And the most stinking kind of nepotism. Corruption is not just the theft of public monies and resources but the crony hustling and abuse of public office. Barrow’s refusal to allow an investigation into the Penner scandal speaks volumes of him and his responsibility as Prime Minister. He has stonewalled and deceived Belizeans about what has been going on in the Immigration department relating to visas, passports and Penner’s shenanigans. It is a limited, leaked Audit Report that provided a glimpse into the cover-up and corrupt practices shielded by his government. It is a citizens group –COLA – and not the proper departments of the state which attempted to prosecute Penner. The DPP, Police and Attorney General have seen to it that Penner slipped away. Penner is still a UDP official and UDP member of the National Assembly collecting his fat salaries allowances and perks. Minister Castro, formerly booted out of Cabinet for alleged land hustling is back in play. He is again a Cabinet Minister. His name keeps popping up in scandals. At last check, he was collecting taxpayers’ cheques from the Airport Authority for his personal and family expenses. All of which are wrong and improper. Instead of removing Castro, the Airport Authority was moved to Tourism. The other wrongdoers who signed and approved the cheques have all been reappointed to other Committees and Boards. It would take several pages to list the Ministers and the multitude of corrupt practices being conducted and covered- up under the Dean Barrow government. The cesspool of corruption at the lands Ministry. The ongoing rosewood illegal exploitation. The wanton destruction of the Nohmul Maya heritage for use as street fill. The unseemly appearance of two government Ministers and the so-called first lady at a privately sponsored millionaires’ investment show- case in Italy for the controversial Puerto Azul project “under consideration” by the Prime Minister’s Cabinet. Minister Mark King’s apparently drunken behavior and assault of a police. The hundreds of thousands of dollars that have disappeared at KHMH, the Dangriga Hospital and the Belize City Central Regional Hospital, and the utter incompetence of Pablo Marin as Minister of Health. The land hustling in the Ministry of Lands and admitted land giveaway by Gaspar Vega to his family. As we said, the list is too long. The corruption continues-unabated. In the bogus, stage managed interview given by the Prime Minister to shameless UDP activist Steve Duncan; Barrow said he would want to be remembered, as his legacy after two terms in office, as a Minister who was honest. What a thing to say. Looking tired and washed up, the Prime Minister could only think of himself. After 30 odd years in politics and one and a half term as Prime Minister his only thought was ego and himself. Nothing about reducing the poverty levels by half or reducing rising crime. Or that he would get every young person in secondary and tertiary education or skill training. Surrounded by an ever widening circle of thieves and hustlers, like Ali Baba and his 40 thieves, all Dean Barrow could hope for is that the finger does not point him out.
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3 AUG
THE BELIZE TIMES
2014
“Dem treat we like dogs”
HESED REALTY “We Sell Satisfaction”
CitCo evicts Commercial Center vendors! Continued from page 1 the hardworking vendors at the Commercial Center. Under a cloud of allegations that the Commercial Center has been sold off to private interests, vendors have received threatening letters demanding that they MUST VACATE the premises by Monday August 4th 2014. According to the vendors, the decision was arbitrary and without consideration of their concerns. The BELIZE TIMES spoke to two long-time vendors, Mrs. Irene Suaso and Mrs. Dyer. Ms. Suaso has occupied her space alongside the Albert Street sidewalk since time immemorial. Her family was raised on the income she makes from her fruit and vegetable stall. Now, thanks to the UDP City Council, she is being forced to move out and relocate. To where? She doesn’t have a clue. Mrs. Dyer is in the same sad state of affairs. She has had a small grocery shop at the commercial center for over twenty years. She is very upset at the coldness of the Mayor and his Councillors, who have not even had the decency to show up and explain what is happening. “Dem just treat we like dogs.
Dem no come ‘round. Dem just send people fu tell we dat we haftu move,” said Mrs. Dyer. The Council claims the eviction of the vendors is necessary to conduct renovations. But there has not been any form of public information on the intended works on the site. Neither has there been any public tender for the works that would be carried out. There is also no known timeline for the “renovations”, so it might take as long as it has taken the Herman Longsworth/ Marion Jones Complex to build. The vendors had appealed to the Market Manager, Martha Swift, at a meeting in March that they must show some consideration to the vendors. The vendors requested assistance to move, or a place to relocate temporarily. But the Council has not offered any help. Even worst, the Council has informed the vendors that once they leave, they might not be allowed to return to conduct business. In the eviction notice sent to the vendors, the Council states that “after completion of the renovations you will be contacted by the Council to discuss possible retention of space”. Now, how much chancier can the UDP get?
Are you selling your home, lot or acreage? Are you seeking to purchase that perfect property? We can help you! Advertise your home, lot or acreage with us and reach 1 000s of motivated buyers online. Call us at 501-621-3043 or email: hesedbelize@gmail.com
VACANCY NOTICE UNICEF is seeking qualified Belizean Nationals for the position of Project Assistant in the Belize Country Office (GS-4 level). Within the delegated authority and under the given organizational set-up, the incumbent may be assigned the primarily, shared, or contributory accountabilities for all or part of the major duties. Under the supervision of the Early Childhood Development Officer: Duties & Responsibilities: •
Collects information mainly from records and reports and prepares periodic and ad hoc reports on programme and project activities.
•
Organizes data and information, prepares and maintains records, documents and control plans for the monitoring of project/programme implementation.
•
Contributes to the preparation of reports, project documents and submissions to governments by providing information, preparing tables and drafting relatively routine sections. Prepares background information for use in discussions with governments and other organizations. Participates in the briefing and debriefing of project personnel.
•
Verifies the authenticity and correctness of documentation submitted by Government and NGO’s on programme expenditures according to the established procedures. Maintains the accounts for such documentation and assists programme officers in the follow-up of outstanding supporting documentation by direct contact with Government and NGO counterparts.
•
Scrutinizes plans of operations, exchanges of letters and takes appropriate follow-up action. Assists in the administrative process of government requests for assistance.
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Provides logistical support to programme staff in relation to meetings/training and workshops being organized for partners.
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Assist in carrying out specific administrative operational/control tasks for project/programme activities.
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Performs other duties as required.
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 21st day of February, 2012 between NARCISO GABRIEL TUSH of Bella Vista Village, Toledo District, Belize, of the one part, and Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., of the other part, and recorded in Deeds Book Vol. 4 of 2012 at Folios 1005 – 1032, 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 LEASEHOLD INTEREST IN ALL THAT piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 143 situate in Maya Mopan Village, Stann Creek District, Belize and bounded as follows:- On the North for 22.858 metres by a street; On the South for 22.858 by Lot No. 148; On the East for 30.478 metres by Lot No. 142; On the West for 30.478 metres by Lot No. 144, containing 689.982 square metres of land as shown on Entry No. 3798, Register No. 2 at the office of the Commissioner of Lands and Surveys TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon. DATED this 30th day of July, 2014. MUSA & BALDERAMOS LLP 91 North Front Street Belize City Attorneys-at-Law for Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd.
Qualifications and Work Experience: • • • • •
Completion of secondary school, preferably supplemented by technical or university courses in a field related to the work of the organization. Four years of progressively responsible clerical or administrative work, of which at least one year is closely related to support of programme activities. Fluency in English; Strong communication skills, written and oral. Knowledge of Spanish would be an asset. Thorough knowledge of modern office administrative and record-keeping procedures. Fully computer literate. Competent in Microsoft Office Suite of products.
Competencies: i) Core Values (Required) Commitment Diversity and Inclusion Integrity ii) Core Competencies (Required) Communication [II] Working with People [II] Drive for Results [II] iii) Functional Competencies (Required) Analyzing [II] Applying Technical Expertise [II] Following instructions and Procedures [II] Planning and Organizing [II] Other Skills and Attributes: Ability to work in an international, multicultural & team-based working environment. Closing date of submitting applications is 15 August, 2014. Late applications will not be considered and regret letter will only be sent to short-listed candidates. Please visit our website http://www.unicef.org/videoaudio/PDFs/P11.doc to access the Personal History (P11) Form to be sent by e-mail with a detailed résumé to belize@unicef.org, attention: Operations Assistant; subject - Vacancy Project Assistant. UNICEF OPERATES IN A SMOKE-FREE ENVIRONMENT & IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER & AN HIV/AIDS RESPECTING WORKPLACE.
3 AUG
2014
THE BELIZE TIMES
Elrington wanted by Uncle Sam Continued from page 1 ministration health agencies, known as Medicare and Medicaid, over $400,000 for services that he never performed. This is known as fraud. Unlike Belize’s health system under Pablo Marin and Peter Allen, the Obama’s health care agencies have strict policies and checks and balances. Elrington is also accused of hiring an unlicensed physician at his medical center known in Michigan as the Elrington Medical Center PLLC (EMC). This unqualified doctor, according to reports, “engaged in criminal sexual misconduct” with a female patient on whom he conducted multiple pelvic exams. The United States Inspector General’s office explained in detail the accusations against Elrington. Their investigation summary stated: “Elrington was a licensed physician practicing in the Redford, Michigan area, and was the owner of a private medical center. Elrington allegedly employed an unlicensed physician to treat patients at EMC when he was not there, then billed Medicare and Medicaid as if he performed the services. Though he was the owner of EMC, Elrington spent most of his time employed as the chief medical officer at another medical facility that was unaffiliated with EMC”. Research by the BELIZE TIMES has indicated that Elrington was connected to a number of other hospitals including Sinai-Grace Hospital, Oakwood Annapolis Hospital, and DMC Detroit Receiving Hospital. According to the US Inspector General’s report, Elrington “fled the United States for Belize less than 24 hours after being interviewed by Federal and State agents”. Since then Elrington has been considered a fugitive at-large. “The Brightest Elrington”
Liquor License NOTICES Notice is hereby given that OMAR SILVA is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at “Jalapeños Taco Bar”, situate at 2820 Raccoon Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor Licensing Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.
Notice is hereby given that DORITA BURGOS is applying for a Malt & Cider Liquor License to be operated at 44 Bakers Street, Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District under the Intoxicating Liquor Licensing Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.
rington, known by the Sedi’s party as “crazy glue”. Elrington likened the Belizean media to “Rip Van Winkle” and claimed that the issue with his brother was not only old news but also much ado about nothing. He said that his younger brother is the
07 7 defense is not sticking with the US Inspector General Mr. Crazy Glue. Elrington, an attorney, offered that in his legal expert there is not much to worry about because his brother’s legal experts are dealing with the matter in the United States. Reports are that the doctor in the hot seat has been seen in Belize. It is uncertain which of the residences belonging to the Elrington Empire, sprinkled all over Belize, he is occupying.
PUP NOTICE
Municipal Elections – Belize City
Hubert Elrington The usual mouthy Sedi Elrington, who always seems to have a smart comment about everything, has gone artificial and invisible since the report surfaced. Instead, the only comment has come from an unexpected source: older brother Hubert El-
Wilfred Elrington brightest of the Elringtons and his only mistake was to hire a doctor who turned out not to be a doctor. Very bright, right? Elrington danced around the gravity of the allegations, claiming that “it’s not that he himself did anything wrong”. But clearly that
The People’s United Party is inviting interested applicants for the upcoming Belize City Council Elections to submit their applications. Applications are available from the PUP Secretariat, Independence Hall, #3 Queen Street, Belize City. Completed applications must be filled and returned to the Secretariat along with the non-refundable application fee not later than Friday August 22nd, 2014.
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THE BELIZE TIMES
3 AUG
2014
3 AUG
THE BELIZE TIMES
2014
WOMAN IN THE HOUSE By Dolores Balderamos Garcia
The little NGO that can Last Thursday, July 24th the Belize Council for the Visually Impaired held its Annual General Meeting at the Lion’s Center in Belize City. The Belize Council for the Visually Impaired had its inception in 1981, interestingly in the same year as our Independence. So the fact that it has grown right along with Independent Belize would go without saying. Back then it was a tiny grouping of persons including William Fonseca, father of Hon. Francis Fonseca, PUP Leader. William ‘Chichi’ Fonseca, as he is affectionately known, is still with us at age ninety, and we are very blessed and proud that he continues to inspire and guide us and the work of BCVI. Mr. Fonseca was a foremost educator and Belize’s Chief
Education Officer, and it is known that he has been blind for many years. He is a founding member of BCVI and is now our Honorary President. I say ‘our’ because I have served on the Board of BCVI for about seven years. Joan Musa, long time Executive Director, has never wavered in her strong commitment and in steering BCVI in all its growth and from strength to strength. BCVI is now not so little, though I like to think of it as fairly compact and tightly managed. I say without flattery, yet still with maximum respect, that it is an excellent example of how the civil society sector can play an integral role in providing the best of care and services to differently abled persons, especially children.
PUBLIC AUCTION SALE BY ORDER OF THE CHARGEE HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED, a Licensed Public Auctioneer will sell the following property at the place and time listed. At the Parking Lot across the street from the office of Holy Redeemer Credit Union Limited, No. 1 Hyde’s Lane, Belize City on Monday August 11, 2014 at 10:00a.m. ALL THAT piece or parcel or lot of land being Lot No. 7 comprising 415.515 square metres situate on Sister Therese Sparks Street (formerly Raccoon Street Extension), Belize City, Belize District now Parcel 322, Block 45, Port/Loyolaville Registration Section as shown and described on a Plan of Survey No. 1012 of 1999 drawn by Licensed Surveyor J.V. Hyde dated 25th October 1999 and being lodged and recorded at the Lands & Surveys Department in Belmopan as Entry Plan No. 3186 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon, the freehold property of ROY SUTHERLAND DATED this 28th day of July 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
Our current President Sister Elsa Oliva and Vice President Donovan Reneau are indefatigable, as are Milagro Garel, Chetin Encalada and other Board members. Staffers Carla Ayres Musa, Leolyn Garcia and their teams form an admirable collective unit. The staff has grown to some 31 persons, and income and expenditure as of 2013 have topped the million dollar mark. Also, BCVI provides primary and secondary eye care, rehabilitation and education, and carries out an annual summer camp for blind and visually impaired children, which has always been a great success. Many children, including our young hero and ambassador Rowan Garel, have been integrated into the regular school system and are learning braille. Several are excelling. There are just over 1250 persons on the BCVI blind register countrywide, and all have been able to access services and care at five centers. Screening and treatment are also done for the general population for cataract, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, and in 2013 over 11,000 persons had their eyes examined. Over 3880 eye glasses were produced and supplied, and 447 readers dispensed. I could go on and on. But I wish mainly to thank and commend the Lion’s Club under current President Melissa Shagoury for their sterling partnership with BCVI, and for handing over of the expanded Lion’s Center facilities as well as cameras and
09 9 equipment for BCVI’s work. The highlight of this year’s AGM were remarks by Mr. William Fonseca. In a strong and passionate voice he stated how elated and proud he is at BCVI’s amazing growth and its development, as Mrs Musa said, from its formation in 1981 as voluntary committee to a national organization with comprehensive services and outreach. Mr. Fonseca also told the gathering that he has never liked the word ‘disabled,’ because with care and attention everyone can achieve. His touching anecdotes about how he and his late wife Ms. Molly would assist various persons with meals, counselling and words of encouragement was well received by visibly moved parents, blind/visually impaired campers, and everyone in attendance. Our work must always be about caring deeply for one another and acting on it, he exhorted. BCVI is truly the ‘little’ NGO that can!! I am proud to volunteer as a Board member. With the dedicated leadership and stewardship of Mrs. Musa and the support of her staff, BCVI is a leader in Belize and the Caribbean in its chosen scope of work. We need more organizations like BCVI and more unassuming, dedicated and humble giants of service like Joan Musa and her associates.
Vacancy for Tour Guides (Licensed or in Process of getting a license by 1 Oct 2014) • Adventure Tours • Cave Tubing • Maya Sites Application Forms available at: ITVET Cayo & Belize City or at the Angelus Press Belmopan , chukka main office (1646 Button Wood Bay BLVD.) Phone: 223-4438 Deadline for submission of form by: August 15th 2014
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ENTERTAINMENT
NEWS Major Lazer Remixes Madonna’s
“La Isla Bonita”
We know how much celebrities have come to love Belize for the country’s beauty, friendly people and paradise-like features. The Queen of Pop, Madonna, herself demonstrated her admiration for Belize, strong rumors say, in her 80s song titled “La Isla Bonita”. In this very popular song, Madonna sings that San Pedro is where she longs to be. Madonna has never clarified this rumor, only to say that it was a tribute to Latin American and its people, to an island and to herself. “La Isla Bonita” was Madonna’s first #1 in France where the song spent three weeks at the top spot in July 1987 and selling around 400,000 copies. It was also one of the biggest hits of the 80’s in the Republic of South Africa, where it spent 8 weeks at #1 in 1987. Undoubtedly, it was a hit and now popular dubplate Djs Diplo of Major Lazer has remixed a part of the song to his favour. Diplo’s landing of Madonna for a Major Lazer dub of “La Isla Bonita” is a serious power move for the in-demand producer. Now, the remix won’t help us with the mystery of whether the “Isla Bonita” which Madonna sang about it really San Pedro in Belize, but it will continue to keep the hit alive.
Belizean beauty
Ivonne
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visit us at www.belizetimes.bz or Facebook/ Belize Times
Cor. North Front Steet & Queen Street Belize City
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THE BELIZE THE BELIZE TIMESTIMES
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Musa & Pott win Brodies table tennis tournament Belize City, July 27, 2014 Billy Musa Jr. and his nephew Samron Pott won the 2014 Brodies “Strong & Weak” table tennis tournament organized by the Belize Table Tennis Association at the Belize Elementary auditorium on Sunday, July 27. Musa and Pott won the championship match 3-0 against Petie Usher-Matus and Marion Usher. They had reached the finals undefeated by winning 3-1 against Johnny Del Cid and Terry Su in the 1st round, 3-2 against Harim Ochaeta and Matthew Usher in the 2nd round, and 3-1 against Leon and Fabio Carballo in the 3rd round, to hand Matus and Usher their first loss: 3-1 in the 4th round.
Billy Musa Jr. & Samron Pott are champs
Petie Matus & Marion Usher Matus and Usher had won 3-0 against Luis Bardalez and David Portillo in the 1st round, 3-2 against Taye Parkinson and Jaylen Nicholson in the 2nd round, and 3-0 against Hector
Lopez and Wilfredo Chang in the 3rd round. Matus and Usher fought their way out of the losers’ bracket, by eliminating the 3rd place winners, Carlos Cui and Toni Lui, to meet
Lemonal’s Easy Does It wins Cricket Champs in grand fashion
Lemonal, July 27, 2014 Game 2 of the 2014 Harrison Parks cricket championship finals was high drama in Lemonal on Sunday, July 27, as the young upstarts of Lemonal’s Easy Does It Cricket Club took on the “old guard”, the 4x national champs, Crooked Tree’s Brilliant Cricket Club, for a 153-85 shellacking to clinch the championship. Man of the Match Aaron Muslar scored 38 runs. Malcolm Reynolds hit 31 runs, team captain Warren Anthony scored 24 runs, while Chris Banner added 12 runs. Herbert Banner only scored 8 runs but also took 3 wickets when the Crooked Tree men came to bat. Mykelt Anthony added 7 runs, and Sherman Smith 6 runs. For the Brilliant bowlers, Arturo “Madhouse” Wade took 4 wickets. Lawrence Banner took 3 wickets while Andrew Banner Sr. and Landis “Ciego” Wade took a wicket apiece. Times sports says congratulations and nuff respect to the new champions.
Lemonal’s Easy Does It
Malcolm Reynolds batted 31 runs
Warren Anthony batted 24 runs
Musa and Pott in the finals. Cui and Lui were also fighting their way out of the losers’ bracket, having eliminated 4th place winners: Hector Lopez and Wilfredo Chang, before losing to Matus and Usher.
Toni Lui & Carlos Cui
Jordan Santos wins 2nd Open Water swim meet
Belize City, July 27, 2014 San Pedro’s Jordan Santos won the 2nd Open Water swim meet held by KNEAD and Denise Diaz beside the Sandlighters’ Promenade on Sunday morning. Santos won the 1st swim of 350 yards in 6:08.05, while fellow San Pedrano Kian Ancona was 2nd in a time of 6:24.65. Denise Diaz was 3rd in 8:09.15, while karate sensei Leon Guild took 4th in 8:58.26. Anthony Leslie after finished 5th in 10:16.75. In the main event the 750 yard swim, Santos clocked 14:44.99 to win the Junior swim champ. Ancona was again 2nd in 14:54.29. Anthony Leslie was 3rd in 22:05.34 while Leon Guild finished 4th in 22:10.54. Diaz has been organizing the swim meets to prepare Belizean swimmers for international competition and the Lionman competition’s 0.9 mile swim. All contenders are invited, not just those who consider themselves adept swimmers, but all who may wish to test the waters and their body to the distance.
All swimmers
Jordan Santos
14 SPORTS Belize Bank Bulldogs & Atlantic Bank
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lead Firms basketball
Belize City, July 26, 2014 The Belize Bank bulldogs upset Central Health region 66-64, with Chris McGann scoring 20 points, while Terrique Gabb added 11 points, Vince “Post” Estrada scored 12 points and Charles Armstrong Sr added 10 points. Alejandro Baptist led Central Health with 27 points. COURTS denied BTL Digicel 4G 54-51. Fidel Blair led COURTs with 19 points, Jamal Pollard added 16 points and Jorret Jones added 12 points. Lupito Acosta led BTL with 19 points. On Saturday, the Complex Admirals pumped BWS 58-50. Wilfred Richards led
Complex with 20 points, Rhetton Belisle added 14 points, and Raphael O’Brien added 11 points. BWS’ Luis Barcelona scored 22 points. Atlantic Bank deposited a 66-54 win on Heritage Heats. Ty Bradley led Atlantic Bank with 29 points and Ian Lennon added 26 points. Heats’ Devon Defour scored 15 points. Upcoming games: Digicel 4G vs. Atlantic Bank Bulldogs vs. BWS Heritage Heats vs. COURTS Complex Admirals vs. Central Health
Belize Bank Blazers clip BTL 6-2 in City Softball
Belize Bank Blazers
Belize City, July 25, 2014 The Belize Bank Blazers scorched BTL 6-2 in the Belize City female softball tournament at the Rogers Stadium on Friday night. BTL pitcher Kenisha Sutherland gave up 6 hits, struck out 7 batters and walked 2, while the BTL diamond committed 10 errors. Lisa Jones led the Blazers’ attack scoring 3 runs, while Marsha Wills scored 2 runs and Jolene Davis scored one, even though the Blazers had left 6 runners on base. Blazers’ pitcher Ashley Lucas gave up 6 hits and struck out 3 batters; while her diamond made 4 errors. Only BTL’s Lydia Cacho and Kimani Williams scored in the bottom of the 7th inning; as Telemedia left 8 runners on base. The competition continues at the Rogers Stadium on Friday, August 1.
Heritage’s Devon Defour scored 15pts
Atlantic’s Ty Bradley scored 29pts
BEL Powersockets shocks BWS 14-6 in interoffice softball Belize City, July 26, 2014 The Powersockets schooled BWS/Ministry of Education 14-6 by mercy rule in the 4th inning, as BWS/MOE’s pitcher pitcher Mario Villanueva gave up 7 hits, and walked 6 batters, while the BWS diamond made 14 errors on Saturday. BEL’s Godsden Ferguson scored 3 runs, while Reynaldo Duran, Joseph “Sonny” Enriquez, and Denise Gillett scored 2 runs apiece, and pitcher Sylvano Sutherland, Tanya Gomez Mark Cassasola, Melissa Foreman and Glenford “Mac-10” Flowers scored 1 run apiece. BEL pitcher Sylvano
BEL Powersockets Sutherland gave up 3 hits, struck out 2 batters, and walked 5, while the BEL diamond made 8 errors. BWS left 7 runners BEL pitcher Sylvano Sutherland gave up 3 hits, struck out 2 batters, and walked 5 Villan-
ueva, Andrew Young, Joseph Alvarez, Charles Garbutt and Fiona Rivero scored 1 run apiece. Other games: NSC vs. Customs/ Central Bank – 12-3, Belize Bank Bulldogs vs. KHMH – 7-0 NSC vs. BTL – 7-0
Belize rural softball update Lord’s Bank, July 27, 2014 Lord’s Bank Sunrise continues to lead the Belize Rural softball competition, as they and the Sand Hill Messengers posted wins in Lord’s Bank on Sunday, July 27. Sand Hill Messengers vs. Bermudian Landing’s Arrows Reloaded - 9-4 Sunrise vs. Willows Bank - 17-3
Sand Hill’s Sherraine Westby pitches
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FRANCIS FONSECA
REAL: not imitation or artificial; genuine
FRANCIS is a REAL LEADER
He cares for Belize and is committed to working to improve the lives of Belizeans.
FRANCIS HAS A VISION FOR BELIZE #real.change.now.
3 AUG
2014
THE BELIZE TIMES
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DEAN BARROW
FAKE: a thing that is not genuine; false or a sham
DEAN is a FAKE
After 7 years of Dean and the UDP in office Belize has become worst.
DEAN DOES NOT CARE FOR BELIZEANS
Thanks to Dean more Belizeans are poor and jobless than ever before
#dean.is.fake
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2014
GOVERNMENT OF BELIZE MINISTRY OF WORKS AND TRANSPORT CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR INSTITUTIONAL STRENGTHENING STUDY FIFTH ROAD (PHILLIP S.W. GOLDSON HIGHWAY UPGRADING) PROJECT REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST The Government of Belize (GOBZ) has received financing from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) in an amount equivalent to US$29,830,000 towards the cost of the Fifth Road (Phillip S.W. Goldson Highway Upgrading) Project and intends to apply a portion of the proceeds of this financing to eligible payments under a contract for which this invitation is issued. Payments by CDB will be made only at the request of GOBZ and upon approval by CDB, and will be subject in all respects to the terms and conditions of the Financing Agreement. The Financing Agreement prohibits withdrawal from the financing account for the purpose of any payment to persons or entities, or for any import of goods, if such payment or import, to the knowledge of CDB, is prohibited by a decision of the United Nations Security Council taken under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations. No party other than GOBZ shall derive any rights from the Financing Agreement or have any claim to the proceeds of the Financing. The Ministry of Works and Transport (MWT), the Executing Agency, wishes to procure consultancy services to undertake an Institutional Strengthening Study. The objective of the assignment study is to assist GOBZ to develop a comprehensive plan encompassing the organisational structure, legal framework, institutional and financing mechanisms for the efficient management and maintenance of public roads in Belize. It is expected that the consultancy services assignment will be completed over a sevenÂmonth period. MWT now invites interested eligible consulting firms to submit Expressions of Interest for the provision of these consultancy services. Consultants shall be eligible to participate if:
(a)
in the case of a body corporate, it is legally incorporated or otherwise organised in an eligible country, has its principal place of business in an eligible country and is more than 50 percent beneficially owned by citizen(s) and/or bona fide residents of eligible country(ies) or by a body(ies) corporate meeting these requirements.
(b)
in the case of unincorporated firms, the persons or citizens or bona fida residents of an eligible country; and
(c)
in all cases, the consultant has no arrangement and undertakes not to make any arrangements, whereby any substantial parts of the net profits or other tangible benefits of the contract will accrue or be paid to a person not a citizen or bona fide resident of an eligible country.
Eligible countries are member countries CDB.
In the assessment of submissions, consideration will be given to technical competence, qualifications and experience, local and regional experience on similar assignments, financial capability and existing commitments. All information must be submitted in English. Further information may be obtained from the first address below between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday. Two hard copies of the Statement of Capability must be received at the first address below no later than 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 22, 2014, and one hard copy must be sent simultaneously to CDB at the second address below. The sealed envelope containing each submission should include the name and address of the applicant and shall be clearly marked “Consultancy Services for Construction Supervision, Fifth Road (Phillip S.W. Goldson Highway Upgrading) Project. Following the assessment of submissions, a short-list of not less than three and not more than six applicants will be provided with full terms of reference and invited to submit technical and financial proposals to undertake the assignments. GOBZ reserves the right to accept or reject late applications or to cancel the present invitation partially or in its entirety. It will not be bound to assign any reason for not short-listing any applicant and will not defray any costs incurred by any applicant in the preparation and submission of statements. 1. Project Execution Unit 2. Procurement Officer Ministry of Works & Transport Project Service Division Power Lane Caribbean Development Bank Belmopan P. O. Box 408, Wildey Cayo District St. Michael BELIZE C.A. BARBADOS, W.I. Tel: +501-822-0562 Tel: +246-431-1600 Fax: +501-822-0563 Fax: +246-426-7269 Email: peumow@yahoo.com Email: procurement@caribank.org
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GOVERNMENT OF BELIZE MINISTRY OF WORKS & TRANSPORT CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR DETAILED DESIGN OF HAULOVER BRIDGE REPLACEMENT FIFTH ROAD (PHILLIP S.W. GOLDSON HIGHWAY UPGRADING) PROJECT REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST The Government of Belize (GOBZ) has received financing from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) in an amount equivalent to US$29,830,000 towards the cost of the Fifth Road (Phillip S.W. Goldson Highway Upgrading) Project and intends to apply a portion of the proceeds of this financing to eligible payments under a contract for which this invitation is issued. Payments by CDB will be made only at the request of GOBZ and upon approval by CDB, and will be subject in all respects to the terms and conditions of the Financing Agreement. The Financing Agreement prohibits withdrawal from the financing account for the purpose of any payment to persons or entities, or for any import of goods, if such payment or import, to the knowledge of CDB, is prohibited by a decision of the United Nations Security Council taken under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations. No party other than GOBZ shall derive any rights from the Financing Agreement or have any claim to the proceeds of the Financing. The Ministry of Works and Transport (MWT), the Executing Agency, wishes to procure consultancy services to undertake the detailed design of the Haulover Bridge Replacement. It is expected that the consultancy services assignment will be completed over a sixÂmonth period. MWT now invites interested eligible consultancy firms to submit Expressions of Interest for the provision of these consultancy services. Consultants shall be eligible to participate if:
(a)
in the case of a body corporate, it is legally incorporated or otherwise organised in an eligible country, has its principal place of business in an eligible country and is more than 50 percent beneficially owned by citizen(s) and/or bona fide residents of eligible country(ies) or by a body(ies) corporate meeting these requirements.
(b)
in the case of unincorporated firms, the persons or citizens or bona fida residents of an eligible country; and
(c)
in all cases, the consultant has no arrangement and undertakes not to make any arrangements, whereby any substantial parts of the net profits or other tangible benefits of the contract will accrue or be paid to a person not a citizen or bona fide resident of an eligible country.
Eligible countries are member countries CDB. In the assessment of submissions, consideration will be given to technical competence, qualifications and experience, local and regional experience on similar assignments, financial capability and existing commitments. All information must be submitted in English. Further information may be obtained from the first address below between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday. Two hard copies of the Statement of Capability must be received at the first address below no later than 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 22, 2014, and one hard copy must be sent simultaneously to CDB at the second address below. The sealed envelope containing each submission should include the name and address of the applicant and shall be clearly marked “Consultancy Services for the Detailed Design of Haulover Bridge Replacement, Fifth Road (Phillip S.W. Goldson Highway Upgrading) Project. Following the assessment of submissions, a short-list of not less than three and not more than six applicants will be provided with full terms of reference and invited to submit technical and financial proposals to undertake the assignments. GOBZ reserves the right to accept or reject late applications or to cancel the present invitation partially or in its entirety. It will not be bound to assign any reason for not short-listing any applicant and will not defray any costs incurred by any applicant in the preparation and submission of statements.
1. Project Execution Unit 2. Procurement Officer Project Service Division Ministry of Works & Transport Power Lane Caribbean Development Bank Belmopan P.O. Box 408, Wildey Cayo District St. Michael BELIZE C.A. BARBADOS, W.I. Tel: +501-822-0562 Fax: +501-822-0563 Email: peumow@yahoo.com
Tel: +246-431-1600 Fax: +246-426-7269
Email: procurement@caribank.org
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THE BELIZE TIMES
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2014
GOVERNMENT OF BELIZE MINISTRY OF WORKS & TRANSPORT CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR CONSTRUCTION SUPERVISION FIFTH ROAD (PHILLIP S.W. GOLDSON HIGHWAY UPGRADING) PROJECT REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST The Government of Belize (GOBZ) has received financing from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) in an amount equivalent to US$29,830,000 towards the cost of the Fifth Road (Phillip S.W. Goldson Highway Upgrading) Project and intends to apply a portion of the proceeds of this financing to eligible payments under a contract for which this invitation is issued. Payments by CDB will be made only at the request of GOBZ and upon approval by CDB, and will be subject in all respects to the terms and conditions of the Financing Agreement. The Financing Agreement prohibits withdrawal from the financing account for the purpose of any payment to persons or entities, or for any import of goods, if such payment or import, to the knowledge of CDB, is prohibited by a decision of the United Nations Security Council taken under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations. No party other than GOBZ shall derive any rights from the Financing Agreement or have any claim to the proceeds of the Financing. The Ministry of Works and Transport (MWT), the Executing Agency, wishes to procure consultancy services to undertake the construction supervision of the Fifth Road (Phillip S. W. Goldson Highway Upgrading) Project. It is expected that the consultancy services assignment will be completed over a 36Âmonth period. MWT now invites interested eligible consulting firms to submit Expressions of Interest for the provision of these consultancy services. Consultants shall be eligible to participate if:
(a)
in the case of a body corporate, it is legally incorporated or otherwise organised in an eligible country, has its principal place of business in an eligible country and is more than 50 percent beneficially owned by citizen(s) and/or bona fide residents of eligible country(ies) or by a body(ies) corporate meeting these requirements.
(b)
in the case of unincorporated firms, the persons or citizens or bona fida residents of an eligible country; and
(c)
in all cases, the consultant has no arrangement and undertakes not to make any arrangements, whereby any substantial parts of the net profits or other tangible benefits of the contract will accrue or be paid to a person not a citizen or bona fide resident of an eligible country.
Eligible countries are member countries CDB. In the assessment of submissions, consideration will be given to technical competence, qualifications and experience, local and regional experience on similar assignments, financial capability and existing commitments. All information must be submitted in English. Further information may be obtained from the first address below between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday. Two hard copies of the Statement of Capability must be received at the first address below no later than 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 22, 2014, and one hard copy must be sent simultaneously to CDB at the second address below. The sealed envelope containing each submission should include the name and address of the applicant and shall be clearly marked “Consultancy Services for Institutional Strengthening Study, Fifth Road (Phillip S.W. Goldson Highway Upgrading) Project. Following the assessment of submissions, a short-list of not less than three and not more than six applicants will be provided with full terms of reference and invited to submit technical and financial proposals to undertake the assignments. GOBZ reserves the right to accept or reject late applications or to cancel the present invitation partially or in its entirety. It will not be bound to assign any reason for not short-listing any applicant and will not defray any costs incurred by any applicant in the preparation and submission of statements.
1. Project Execution Unit 2. Procurement Officer Project Service Division Ministry of Works & Transport Power Lane Caribbean Development Bank Belmopan P. O. Box 408, Wildey Cayo District St. Michael BELIZE C.A. BARBADOS, W.I. Tel: +501-822-0562 Fax: +501-822-0563 Email: peumow@yahoo.com
Tel: +246-431-1600 Fax: +246-426-7269
Email: procurement@caribank.org
3 AUG
2014
Reid Barrow’s Fireside Chat Misfires By G. Michael Reid In 1932, Franklin D. Roosevelt (popularly known by his initials “FDR”) mounted a successful presidential campaign on the backs of a bouncy and positive tune called “Happy Days are here again”. Running on the Democratic ticket, FDR was elected a record four times and served from March 1933 to his death in April 1945. Beginning the first year after his first term and continuing until the year before his death, Roosevelt conducted a series of evening radio addresses that he labeled his “Fireside Chats”. Through these well thought out and put together propaganda pieces, Roosevelt was able to facilitate intimate and direct communications between himself and the citizens of his United States and instill confidence in the nation’s leadership. Using these popular chats, the 32nd President of the United States was able to quell rumors and explain the reasons why his government had to make many of the tough decisions of the day. After all, it was wartime and the people needed assurances. Roosevelt’s cheery voice and sincere demeanor played him into the favor of citizens and resulted in him becoming very popular. FDR is consistently rated by scholars as one of the top three U.S. Presidents, along with Abraham Lincoln and George Washington. Last Sunday evening, our own Prime Minster Dean Oliver Barrow tried his hand at FDR’s playbook and sat down for his own version of a fireside chat. Of course, while our Prime Minister is every bit as eloquent as Roosevelt was, he is nowhere as believable and convincing. His arrogance and show of opulence was distracting and while Roosevelt’s objective was to win support for his policies and programs, it was obvious that Barrow’s end was toward whitewashing and self-aggrandizement. A two percent unemployment supported Roosevelt’s claim of “happy days” but 40 percent poverty and 20 percent unemployment directly contradicts Mr. Barrow’s promise of a “golden era.” Mr. Barrow was interviewed by one of his own and known political cronies who asked him some very soft questions and practically led him into many of the answers. Mr. Barrow’s interview-
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THE BELIZE TIMES Ministers”, the Prime Minster tried to convince us that he has “tried to act with certainty and I have done what was required in the circumstances to deal with those ministers”. One could almost hear a collective groan of disapproval and disbelief from those watching and listening. Really Mr. Prime Minister! What did you really do about Elvin Penner? Allow me to remind you; Penner was put out of Cabinet; a post that he never held. The Constitution is clear that no Minister of State shall sit in Cabinet. So, Penner was fired from a job he never had. It was a full five months into the scandal before Penner was even made to surrender his government vehicle and continues to receive full perks and benefits as a member of the House. Did not the Prime Minister himself visit Cayo Northeast after the scandal broke to promise voters there “unprecedented spending” in their area if they were to resist the Opposition’s attempt to recall Penner? Was it not a full three months after receiving the Auditor General’s damning report, and only after said report was leaked, that the Prime Minister finally even spoke on the matter? Is the Prime Minister living in the same world that we are or is he somewhere in Savannah, Houston or Miami? The Prime Minister skirted around many of the serious issues and totally
avoided many others. He said nothing about the Castro, Noh Mul, Rosewood, crime or questionable land deals. According to Mr. Barrow “we introduced and passed several pieces of legislation. One is an amendment to the Finance and Audit Reform Act which now provides for criminal prosecution to be brought against any minister or public officer who is found to have done anything wrong with public monies in terms of ministers er was in fact a banker which in itself was having been caught in wrongdoing. ironic given the symbiotic relationship I have certainly acted with alacrity”. between bankers and politicians. Many I must admit that I had to look up felt that the interview would have been the word but either my dictionary is more credibility had he used an accredited outdated or Mr. Barrow is being abjournalist; a Jules Vasquez would have cersolutely dishonest. “Brisk and cheertainly asked tougher and more pertinent ful readiness” is hardly the way one questions. would describe the manner in which Steve Duncan is a former bigwig in Mr. Barrow has addressed wrongdothe ACB and head of Heritage Bank in Being by his ministers. On researching lize. ACB was supposedly an acronym for the antonyms of the word, it is obviAssociation of Concerned Belizeans but ous that Mr. Barrow misspoke since most folks felt that it actually meant, As“reluctance, slowness and unwillingsociation Concerned about Barrow. Their ness” would certainly better describe propaganda during the years 2005 to 2008 the Prime Minister’s approach to the was intense and unrelenting but as soon many misdeeds of his ministers. as the elections were over, not a peep nor Whatever Mr. Barrow was trying concern for any Belizean but themselves. to achieve through this staged fiasco, Today all prominent members have been it must certainly be painfully obvious duly rewarded. To his credit, Jeremy to him that he did not attain his objective. Then again, given this man’s propensity to mendacity and distorted reality, he Mr. Barrow’s interviewer was in fact a banker might very well be leaning back thinking, “I still got it”. which in itself was ironic given the symbiotic reReality check Mr. Barrow, lationship between bankers and politicians. Many whatever you thought you had, you’ve lost and it is high felt that the interview would have been time you realize that the jig is more credibility had he used an accredited up! Kindly exit stage left! risk. I don’t know Phillip, journalist; a Jules Vasquez would have cerseems they didn’t listen then tainly asked tougher and more pertinent and are not listening still; perquestions. haps they never will! Spooner was the only member who remained committed to his ideals and has been lately, lashing out via the social media. Could he be one of the “Facebook Kings” to whom Mr. Barrow alluded? Duncan was supposed to get “Upfront and Personal” with the Prime Minister but apart from a few seconds of pretaped time with family, this was all about the repainting of this portrait of a dictator. The problem is that the Prime Minister is in deep trouble image wise. People no longer see him as the savior and liberator that he purported himself to be but view him now as a dishonest and oppressive tyrant. Sunday’s exercise was supposed to have dispelled that concept and present the Prime Minister as the paragon of virtue amidst a cesspool of corruption. In effect, he threw his entire cabinet under the bus in an attempt to distance himself from the all corrupt and “distasteful” actions of his ministers. This does not wash since the Prime Minister has been quick to jump up and defend his colleagues at the first hint of any wrongdoing. Mr. Barrow reminded the public that he never promised them a rose garden but explained that “The deal, the undertaking with the public could never have been that I will absolutely prevent any minister from going astray. That’s not possible. The deal always was that we will have a climate in which going astray will not be tolerated, will not be countenanced. We will have a climate in which the people can be confident that when ministers do make these very serious mistakes…not to put a fine line on it…when ministers engage in wrongdoing, once they are caught they will be punished.” Even if we accept that that was indeed “the deal”, it is obvious that Mr. Barrow has not lived up to his end. While admitting to “questionable behavior from
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 9th day of December, 2003 between DARWIN REYMUNDO of Pomona Village, Stann Creek District, Belize of the one part, and Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., of the other part, and recorded in Deeds Book Vol. 45 of 2003 at Folios 339 – 366, 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 LEASEHOLD INTEREST IN ALL THAT piece or parcel of land being Lot. No. 68 situate in Pomona Village, Del Oro Site, Stann Creek District, Belize and bounded as follows:- On the North for 15.238 metres by a street; On the South for 15.238 metres by now or formerly national lands; On the East for 30.476 metres by Lot. No. 69; On the West for 30.476 metres by Lot No. 67, Containing 461.849 square metres as shown on Plan No. 2175 at the Office of the Commissioner of Lands and Surveys TOGETHER with buildings and erections standing and being thereon. DATED this 30th day of July, 2014. MUSA & BALDERAMOS LLP 91 North Front Street Belize City Attorneys-at-Law for Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd.
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Home Economics The Enemies of Industrial Growth Part II By Richard Harrison Belize’s colonial history left the3. GOVERNMENT VS PRIVATE SECTOR The official government accounts for around 29% of GDP…..however, if the very large “government outside the government” is counted….the plethora of statutory bodies and “quasi-government” institutions and organizations….then government actually accounts for over 50% of GDP. This is a fall out from the same tree that bore the seeds of socialism….forcing disproportionate increases in education, health, “conservation” and “social” spending….thus crowding out scarce resources allocated to agriculture and industrial development, infrastructure, land acquisition and reallocation, and jobs creation, etc. So, now we have many more educated and healthy living longer on average….but large percentage without gainful employment (especially the youth), with an increasing tendency towards illegal activity, corruption and crime…hopelessness, apathy and low self-esteem. The private sector is also poorly organized and lead…with a Belize Chamber of Commerce Western Union (and industry) that is a forum more of compromise in favor of importers than anything else….focusing on grey areas of crime, corruption and “entrepreneurial training” (which is near impossible to measure success or failure)….. rather than on making concrete proposals to government for modifications of laws, policies and practices that would foster industrial and economic growth. Why? Because these currently “opposing” interests cannot agree on any.... This jumbling of commercial importing interests and industrial interests under one tent of COMPROMISE….will never lead to the strong sense of purpose and lobby that INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT requires. The principal hindrance to progress under this tent, is the shallow view of a zero-sum mentality…where the importers perceive that growth of industry will result in loss of im-
ports. This is such a very shallow view….because with industrial growth and more jobs, there will be much more disposable income and purchasing power to demand more and better quality imports with higher margins. Both will gain from industrial development. However, with import-driven economy in the absence of industrial development as we have now, growth in imports will continue being driven by growing tourism demand, but the “people of Belize” will continue to decline in wealth, shifting their demand to inferior quality merchandize that yield lower margins of profit....hence more profits will come from tourists than from Belizeans....and the money will continue to follow the money. The development of Belize will continue to be driven by tourism interests and their customers...as can be seen from most of the infrastructure investments over the past 20 years, which is designed particularly for those “customers” in that segment of the economy...and not prioritized for the balanced long-term and wholesome development of ALL the people of Belize. But there is another important factor….there are those dreamers in Belice who believe very strongly that Belize can depend almost exclusively on a “service economy”….relying more on growing tourism and so-called ICT-based services…. forcing scarce resources and consolidation in that direction. They have taken over the ITVET’s and other institutions of higher learning, Beltraide, NICH, financing institutions and even the Taiwan Cooperation program…and forced them in this direction. The few industrialists in Belize are prevented from organizing, because the laws do not allow them to make profit without “development concessions” and/or “market protection” driven by political discretion…hence, once one gets his favors, he better keep his mouth shut and stick to his own interests…lest he risks losing his benefits and investments. Those of us who speak out know the price. The importers, service providers and tourism lobbyists are thus engaged in silent collu-
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sion….to the detriment of industrial development. As this trend has grown….so has unemployment and poverty. The “socialists”....once they get their disproportionate spending in government, education, conservation and health...where they mostly feed....no matter the results over the past 32 years of Independence...they collude silently with the high-jacking of these lop-sided tourism/services and conservation interests of the axles, wheels and spokes of the entire economy. The people and Government of Belize need to see industrial development as part and parcel of a NATIONAL PLAN to achieve a more balanced economy that provides full and stable employment for its people….and it needs to take into account that 50% of its population still live in rural areas…the vast majority of the labor force is unskilled or semiskilled....and are more suited to agriculture and industrial manufacturing jobs. It needs to take into account that service jobs (tourism and others) are
very seasonal, and exposed to very high risks...including, but not limited to rapid flight to greener pastures. Industrial investments are much harder to dismount from. Belize can implement plans that would allow it to achieve an average 5% per annum GDP growth, so that in ten years time, our economy is truly 20% government, 20% agriculture, 20% manufacturing and 40% medium-to-highend private-sector tourism/services….with full employment, growing and balanced wealth creation and distribution, and stable long-term economic outlook…based mostly around the sustainable development of our abundant natural resources. Richard Harrison is a local businessman and investor in the manufacturing and service industries. Mr. Harrison holds a Masters in Business Administration degree from Lancaster University, United Kingdom. Send comments to harrisonbz@yahoo.com
TENDER NOTICE TENDER FOR THE GENERAL SECURITY AND SURVEILLANCE OF THE SUPREME COURT BUILDING, THE OLD TREASURY BUILDING, THE COURT OF APPEAL AND THE SUPREME COURT LAW LIBRARY BUILDING, THE BELIZE FAMILY COURT, THE VITAL STATISTICS UNIT BUILDING AND THE CHIEF JUSTICE’S RESIDENCE. Tenders are invited for the general security and surveillance of the Supreme Court Building, the Old Treasury Building, the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court Law Library Building, the Belize Family Court, the Vital Statistics Unit Building and the Chief Justice’s Residence. 1. The Tender shall be for a period of two (2) years ( Sept 1 2014 to Aug 31 2016) 2. The successful Tender will be expected to provide the following security and surveillance to the following locations: a. Provide 24 hours security to the Supreme Court Building – 3 guards for 7 day per week b. Provide 24 hours security to the Old Treasury Building – 3 guards for 7 day per week c. Provide 24 hours security to the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court Law Library Building – 1 guard for 7 day per week d. Provide security to the Belize City Family Court from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Monday to Thursday and from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Fridays – 2 guards e. Provide 24 hours security service to the Vital Statistics Unit Building – 1 guard for 7 days per week f. Provide 24 hours security service to the Chief Justice’s Residence – 1 guard for 7 days per week The cost incurred to visit the facilities to be guarded and the preparation of the bids is the sole responsibility of the Tenderer. The lowest or any Tender may not necessarily be accepted. Tenders are to be submitted in sealed envelopes marked “TENDER FOR THE GENERAL SECURITY AND SURVEILLANCE OF THE SUPREME COURT BUILDING, THE OLD TREASURY BUILDING, THE COURT OF APPEAL AND THE SUPREME COURT LAW LIBRARY BUILDING, THE BELIZE FAMILY COURT, THE VITAL STATISTICS UNIT BUILDING AND THE CHIEF JUSTICE’S RESIDENCE” no later than Aug 15, 2014. Envelopes to be delivered to: Registrar General General Registry Department Treasury Lane Belize City, Belize The General Registry Department The Attorney General’s Ministry
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GOVERNMENT OF BELIZE MINISTRY OF WORKS AND TRANSPORT FIFTH ROAD (PHILLIP S.W. GOLDSON HIGHWAY UPGRADING) PROJECT INVITATION FOR PRE-QUALIFICATION OF CONTRACTORS The Government of Belize (GOB) has received a loan from the Caribbean Development Bank (the “Bank”) in an amount equivalent to US$29,830,0001 towards the cost of the Fifth Road (Phillip S.W. Goldson Highway Upgrading) Project, and intends to apply a portion of the proceeds of this loan to eligible payments under these contracts. Payment by CDB, will be made only at the request of GOB and upon approval by CDB, and will be subject, in all respects, to the terms and conditions of the Loan Agreement. The Loan Agreement prohibits a withdrawal from the Loan Account for the purpose of any payment to persons or entities, or for any import of goods, if such payment or import, to the knowledge of CDB, is prohibited by a decision of the United Nations Security Council taken under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations. No party other than GOB shall derive any rights from the Loan Agreement or have any claim to the proceeds of the Loan. This Project is being implemented by the Ministry of Works and Transport (MOWT), Project Execution Unit (PEU). A Project Coordinator within PEU will be responsible for the day-to-day management of project activities. Engineering Consultants will be retained by MOWT to assist with the tender administration and supervision of the contract. MOWT (hereinafter referred to as “the Employer”) intends to pre-qualify contractors for the following works under this project: • Section A - Airport Road Junction to Haulover Bridge (5.35km) • Section B - Haulover Bridge to Buttonwood Bay Boulevard Roundabout (4.46km) It is expected that Invitations to Bid will be issued during the fourth quarter of 2014. All countries are eligible for this opportunity. The requirements for pre-qualification will include: (a) an average annual turnover (defined as billing for works in progress and completed) over the last three years of United States Dollars (US$) 6.0 million equivalent for civil works; (b) demonstrable cash flow (including access to credit) of US$750,000 equivalent; (c) experience as prime contractor in the construction of at least one assignment of a nature and complexity comparable to the proposed project activity within the last five years with a value of at least US$5.0M that has been successfully and substantially completed and that is similar to the proposed works. The similarity shall be based on the physical size, complexity, methods/technology or other characteristics as described in Section VI, Scope of Works. (d) Project Manager with eight years experience, five of which have been spent in works of an equivalent nature and scope, including not less than five as a Project Manager. Eligible applicants may obtain the pre-qualification information documents by calling, writing, or faxing to the first address below. The request must clearly state “Request for Pre-qualification Documents for Section A - Airport Road Junction to Haulover Bridge (5.35km) and/or Section B - Haulover Bridge to Buttonwood Bay Boulevard Roundabout (4.46km)” The documents are available for a non-refundable fee of US$50.00. Potential applicants who request that documents be forwarded to them are required to submit an account number from a local courier agent, which accepts freight collect charges. MOWT will promptly dispatch the documents but under no circumstances will the Ministry be responsible for late delivery or loss of the documents so transmitted. Submissions of applications for pre-qualification shall be in English and must be received in sealed envelopes, clearly marked “Application to Pre-qualify for Section A - Airport Road Junction to Haulover Bridge (5.35km) and/or Section B - Haulover Bridge to Buttonwood Bay Boulevard Roundabout (4.46km)”. Applications must be either delivered by hand or by registered mail to the first address below not later than 4:00 p.m. on Friday, October 3, 2014. A copy of the Application for Prequalification should be simultaneously submitted to CDB at the second address below. MOWT reserves the right to accept or reject late applications or to cancel the prequalification process. MOWT will not be bound to assign any reason for not pre-qualifying any applicant and will not defray costs incurred by applicants in the preparation and submission of the pre-qualification documents. Applicants will be advised in due course of the results of their application. Only contractors and joint ventures pre-qualified under this procedure will be invited to bid.
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Project Execution Unit Ministry of Works and Transport Power Lane Belmopan Cayo District BELIZE, C. A. Tel: +501-822-0562 Fax: +501-822-0563 Email: peumow@yahoo.com
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Procurement Officer Project Service Division Caribbean Development Bank P O Box 408, Wildey St. Michael BARBADOS, W. I. Tel: +246-431-1600 Fax: +246-426-7269 Email: procurement@caribank.org
Including some resources from the Investment Facility via the European Investment Bank (“EIB”)
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For Sale By Order of the
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 3rd day of February, 2005 between JULIO C. VALDEZ JR. and ELSY E. HENRIQUEZ both of #6 11th Street, San Ignacio Town, Cayo District, Belize, of the one part, and Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., of the other part, and recorded in Deeds Book Vol. 5 of 2005 at Folios 527 – 596, 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 22nd day of May, 2012 between RAMONA COLEMAN of Big Falls, Toledo District, Belize of the one part, and Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., of the other part, and recorded in Deeds Book Vol. 13 of 2012 at Folios 1081 – 1130, 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. 1685 (557.42 Square Metres) situate at San Ignacio Town Extension, Cayo District, Belize bounded and described as shown by Plan No. 733 of 2004 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon. DATED this 30th day of July, 2014. MUSA & BALDERAMOS LLP 91 North Front Street Belize City Attorneys-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:1) A Deed of Mortgage made the 17th day of March, 2010, between MARCIANA MCKOY of No. 7 Stadium Street, Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District, Belize of the one part, and SCOTIABANK (BELIZE) LTD., of the other part, and recorded in Deeds Book Vol. 9 of 2010 at Folios 1395 – 1420; THE SCHEDULE ALL THAT piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 319 comprising 694.44 square yards situate North of the Western Highway, near Mile 8½, Belize District, Belize bounded and described as shown by Plan No. 652 of 1998 attached to Minister’s Fiat (Grant) No. 652 of 1998 dated 29th June, 1998 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon. 2) A Deed of Mortgage made the 13th day of April, 2010, between MARCIANA MCKOY, of No. 5 Stadium Street, Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District, Belize of the one part and Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., of the other part, and recorded in Deeds Book Vol. 12 of 2010 at Folios 1397 – 1426; THE SCHEDULE ALL THAT piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 72 in the subdivision known as Los Lagos situate in the Mile 13 Area, Northern Highway, Ladyville, Belize District, as surveyed by Kenneth A. Gillett, Licensed Surveyor and recorded at the Office of the Commissioner of Lands and Surveys, Belmopan at Register 16 Entry 4460. The said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd. will at the expiration of two months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the properties described in the schedules hereto. All offers to purchase the said properties must be made in writing and full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained from the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd. DATED this 30th day of July, 2014. MUSA & BALDERAMOS 91 North Front Street Belize City Attorneys-at-Law for Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd.
SCHEDULE All that piece or parcel of land containing 24 acres being Block No. 36A and situate North of the Big Falls Road, and East of the Punta Gorda-San Antonio Road, Toledo District and comprised in Minister’s Fiat Grant No. 142 of 1960 recorded and registered at the Survey Department, Belmopan City attached to the said property TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon. DATED this 30th day of July, 2014. MUSA & BALDERAMOS LLP 91 North Front Street Belize City Attorneys-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 22nd day of July, 2009 between WILFRED MUTRIE and ANNA M. RAMIREZ both of Hopeville Area, Punta Gorda Town, Toledo District, Belize of the one part, and Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., of the other part, and recorded in Deeds Book Vol. 18 of 2009 at Folios 1199 – 1230, 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 LEASEHOLD INTEREST IN ALL THAT lot piece or parcel of land being Lot. No. 117 situate in the Hopeville Area, Punta Gorda Town, Toledo District, Belize and bounded as follows:- On the North for 30.482 metres by Lot. No. 114; On the South for 30.482 metres by a portion of Lot No. 118; On the East for 19.408 metres by a street and on the West for 19.408 metres by Lot No. 116 containing 591.595 square metres of land as shown on Plan No. 2064 at the Office of the Commissioner of Lands and Surveys TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon. DATED this 30th day of July, 2014. MUSA & BALDERAMOS LLP 91 North Front Street Belize City Attorneys-at-Law for Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd.
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A Lifetime of Lessons Belize City, July 30, 2014 Annual General Meetings (AGM) are a formality, one that most organizations must follow through with to remain in good standing. At the Belize Council for the Visually Impaired (BCVI), however, it has become a family reunion for past and present leaders, clients who are blind and those who support the organization. BCVI’s 2014 AGM was held at the Lions Conference Center in Belize City on July 24th where founder, William, “Chi Chi” Fonseca, was guest speaker. As fate would have it, Mr Fonseca has also lost his sight, but that has never stopped him. He recalls the early days of the organization he helped create and marvels at its growth and coverage, 33 years later. I remember sitting in a little room that was BCVI, very close all of us. I sat there and I listened to Mrs Joan Musa and Joan Samuels and Nurse (Alice) Lewis talking to the patients, not only taking care of the problems they had with their eyes, but also caring for them, giving them advice and encouragement and from that time I knew BCVI was in good hands. When I hear the annual report, it blows my mind. I never dreamt that BCVI would grow to be such a big, active and successful organization. - William “Chi Chi” Fonseca BCVI’s earliest available Annual Report, written in 1991, states that the Primary Eye Care Program examined a total of 813 people. These people were seen at the Belize City Clinic on Gabourel Lane and during outreach clinics conducted with Dr David Hoy in Punta Gorda, Corozal and villages of the Belize District. This past Thursday, guests were presented with the 2013 Annual Report during which BCVI’s four full-time optometrists located in our five established clinics throughout the country examined more than 11,000 patients. The organization itself has grown from a staff of four to one of 30 and now includes a dedicated secondary eye care programme and operating
William Fonseca with BCVIs Joan Musa (far left), Joan Samuels (far right) and the young Belizeans they have inspired.
BCVI’s Founder William Fonseca and Executive Director Joan Musa
William Fonseca and son, PUP Leader Francis Fonseca at special BCVI AGM
theatre to treat eye diseases. In 1991 the Rehabilitation and Education Programme catered to 50 clients who were blind or visually impaired. Since then, BCVI created a register providing detailed records of the client base which now totals 1,254. It is through Mr Fonseca’s teaching and support as an education officer, that BCVI is now able to promote inclusive education and support 50 children, who are blind, in main stream schools. He played a crucial role in the education of BCVI’s former Vice President Hector Hoare (who passed away a few years ago) as well as for our current Vice President Donovan Reneau, who is now a radio DJ at Love FM. UB student Teresita Moh is also inspired by Mr Fonseca’s positive outlook. All three met Mr Fonseca after having lost their sight later in life, and it is his encouragement that helped them overcome their obstacle and move on to lead independent and fulfilling lives. At 90 years old, and living without his sight, Mr Fonseca continues to have a vision for BCVI and what the organization can accomplish through its comprehensive eye health programme: preventing blindness, restoring sight and nurturing
independent people who are irreversibly blind. The mission of BCVI is rooted in his vision, which he stressed to the clients, young and old, who attended the AGM. “Keep the faith there is a future for you, a good strong future. As you live your life, you’re making a future for all the blind people who will come after you. Say to the people of Belize, say to the world, ‘I am blind, but I will live a full active, rewarding and fulfilling life.’”
William Fonseca (in center) next to Executive Director Joan Musa in awards ceremony
William Fonseca and Hon. Phillip Goldson in the earlier days of their activism
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Hard Lessons
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echnology is probably the defining platform of this century. But destroying individual pieces of that technology has become a fine art and almost every day a new and creative technique for damaging phones, laptops, tablets, etc. arises. I recently heard a funny anecdote about my uncle’s broken tablet. He accidentally sat on the brand new device and the pressure of his weight cracked the screen. I found this story and my uncle’s subsequent paranoia with the next tablet that he bought quite humorous. Not until I experienced the heartbreak of a destroyed device did I realize that sometimes the best lessons learned are the ones learned the hard way. It was a beautiful breezy day. Feeling content and peaceful, I settled into a corner of the library that I usually occupied while waiting for my next class. After sticking in my headphones, I fiddled around on my laptop. Noticing that the wind was getting a bit strong, I placed my brand new touch screen phone on a piece of paper that was threatening to fly off. A few minutes after, a strong gust of wind pushed through the open window and, like the hand of God, flung my phone three feet away and to the ground. The screen resembled a maze of cracked lines and I felt my heart break in the exact same pattern. No feeling can compare to the disappointment of breaking a brand new phone. I experienced a variety of emotions at this point. I cried. I sighed. I worried. I got angry… at the wind, at the school, at the library, and even at God. I felt like knocking my head against the wall. At that moment in my life, I would have given anything to turn back the clock and done things differently. But every time I closed my eyes and strained to change the past, I’d open them to a wrecked phone screen. I could do nothing but mope around for a few days. Okay, more than a few days because the phone was expensive and brand new! After my mourning period, however, I sat down and really thought about the experience. In my pondering, I learned several important principles that I probably never would have, if my phone had not been damaged. The most important principle, though, was the Principle of Paranoia. Now, I’m not referring to seeing dangers in the shadows when you’re walking down the street, but when it comes to technology, you can never be too careful. I realized that I had the habit of being careless with all my devices. I constantly left my phone on the edge of furniture so it would be easy for it to fall, and I almost never put the phone in its case. It was only a matter of time before I damaged the phone, myself. See, when you learn a lesson only half the battle has been won. It would be easy to return to carelessness and be forced to learn the lesson all over again and maybe with something more expensive or important. God chooses to prune and shape us by allowing us to learn lessons the hard way, but have you truly learned the lesson? Until next week, God bless
2014
Supply of Cave Rescue and Medical Equipment Date of First Publication – July 27, 2014 The Project Execution Unit (PEU) of the Making Tourism Benefit Communities Adjacent to Archaeological Sites Project (MTBCAAS) now intends to award a contract for the Supply of Cave Rescue and Medical Equipment. Expressions of Interest must reach the office of the PEU by Monday, August 11, 2014 no later than 4:00 p.m. Tender dossier will be available by Monday, July 28, 2014 from: Patrick Tillett, Finance Officer Making Tourism Benefit Communities Adjacent to Archaeological Sites 56 Regent Street, Belize City, BELIZE Email: patrick.tillett@brdpIItourism.bz Tel: 227-1781
Deadline for submission of tender documents is Monday, August 25, 2014 no later than 2:00 pm at the below address. Absolutely no proposal will be accepted after this date and time. For any additional information or clarifications/questions, please contact: Finance Officer, Patrick Tillett @ patrick.tillett@brdpIItourism.bz 56 Regent Street, 2nd Floor Belize City Tel: 227-1781
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 14th day of March, 2008 between EMOGENE YOUNG RAMCLAM of Lord’s Bank Village, Ladyville, Belize District, Belize of the one part, and Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., of the other part, and recorded in Deeds Book Vol. 9 of 2008 at Folios 1359 – 1388, 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 LEASEHOLD INTEREST IN ALL THAT piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 37 situate in the vicinity of Lord’s Bank Village, Belize District and bounded as follows: On the North for 27.423 Metres by 40 feet street; On the Northeast for 4.310 Metres by a Truncation; On the South for 30.475 Metres by Lot No. 38; On the East for 21.333 Metres by a 50 feet street; On the West for 24.380 Metres by Lot No. 36, containing 883.33 Square Yards of land as shown on Entry No. 6040, Register No. 23 at the office of the Commissioner of Lands and Surveys TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon. DATED this 24th day of July, 2014. MUSA & BALDERAMOS LLP 91 North Front Street Belize City Attorneys-at-Law for Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd.
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REGIONAL & INTERNATIONAL
NEWS
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Obama in appeal to stem child migrant numbers US president calls on Central American leaders to help stop large numbers from crossing border during White House talks
Scores trapped in India landslide Five people dead after monsoon rains in Maharashtra state trigger mudslide, trapping up to 150 people, officials say. A landslide in India’s western Maharastra state has trapped up to 150 people and killed at least five following heavy monsoon rains. More than 200 rescue workers and heavy machin-
ery were deployed to try to rescue those feared trapped in Malin village, local officials said. “Five bodies have been recovered and 125 to 150 are still trapped,” Satish Lalit, a spokesman for the Maharashtra chief
minister’s office, told the AFP news agency. More rain was expected on Wednesday, threatening to make resuce efforts difficult and increase the chances of more landslides. Television footage showed the side of a hill shaved off, with large amounts of mud, muddy water and logs piled below. A rescue official said 50 houses were damaged. Malin village, in Pune district, is near a pilgrim-
age temple popular with tourists. Heavy rains have been falling for days in Maharashtra as a result of the annual monsoon. Almost 6,000 people are presumed to have died during flash floods and landslides started by last year’s monsoon rains in the northern India state of Uttarakhand.
Yemen protests erupt after fuel price doubled Reports of one dead in rally in capital Sanaa after government cuts subsidies to secure IMF loan. Protests have erupted in Yemen’s capaital Sanaa after the government announced a sharp rise in fuel prices, part of a bid to ease the burden of energy subsidies on the impoverished country’s state finances and curb its budget deficit. Witnesses and a medical source said a female protester was killed as the army fired into the air in an attempt to break up a demonstration near the presidential palace. Yemeni officials were not immediately avail-
able for verification of the death. According to new prices posted in the capital, Sanaa, the government raised regular petrol from $0.58 a litre to $0.93. Diesel used for public transport and trucks rose from $0.46 to $0.91. The government spent about $3bn on energy subsidies last year, nearly a third of state revenue. Yemen has been trying for over a year to secure a loan of at least $560m from the International Monetary Fund, but the fund is pressing for subsidies to be
slashed. Oil pipeline bombed In a separate incident that could make matters worse for the countrys fuel costs, armed men have blown up Yemen’s main oil export pipeline on Wednesday, halting vital crude flows, a local official said. Yemen’s oil and gas pipelines have repeatedly been sabatoged by rebels and tribesmen since anti-government protests led to a power vacuum in 2011, causing fuel shortages and curbing export earnings.
President Barack Obama has urged the leaders of three Central American countries to work with him to stem the flow of child migrants who have surged across the US border, warned that most of them would not be allowed to stay. In a White House meeting with the leaders of Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, Obama said his administration had compassion for the children, but not many would qualify for humanitarian relief or refugee status. The meeting came as Obama struggles to contain a border crisis triggered by the tens of thousands of children who have crossed the Texas border with Mexico in recent months. Many of the migrants have fled poverty and crime at home, overwhelming border resources and putting election-year pressure on Obama to resolve it. “There may be some narrow circumstances in which there is a humanitarian or refugee status that a family might be eligible for,” Obama said after talks with the leaders.
Mass grave of hundreds unearthed in Bolivia Construction workers in the Andes stumble across a mass grave containing the remains of an estimated 400 to 500 people. Construction workers in Bolivia have stumbled upon a mass grave containing the remains of hundreds of people, likely indigenous miners who died during the Spanish colonial era, a researcher has said. The workers found the remains this week as they started construction on a new building in the “El Minero” district of Potosi, located high in the Andes. “We are talking about a common grave found at about 1.8 metres, and the human remains are scattered over an area of four by four metres,” said Sergio Fidel, a researcher at a museum belonging to Tomas Frias University on Saturday. In the Spanish colonial era, Potosi became famous for its massive silver and tin reserves, which started to be mined in the 16th century. Local indigenous people, mainly ethnic Aymara, were commonly put to work as both slaves and indentured servants, especially at the famed Cerro Rico (Rich Hill) mountain.
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3 AUG
THE BELIZE TIMES
VOTER FRAUD
2014
IN QUEEN’S SQUARE!!!
142 East Collet Canal 15 Voters, Phillip Willoughby family home
Partial structure No. 6518 CA Blvd 20 Voters
Empty Lot No 122 Euphrates Ave 12 Voters
No 13 Tanoomah 16 Voters
Wooden dilapidated structure No 65 Amara Ave 20 Voters
Overgrown partial structure No. 10 Tanoomah 10 Voters
Overgrown empty lot Cor 13 Mex & Amara Ave 9 Voters
Overgrown Vacant Lot No 21 Kraal Road 33 Voters
Empty Lot No 122 Euphrates Ave 12 Voters
BARROW IS BOGUS!
3 AUG
THE BELIZE TIMES
2014
UDP AT IT AGAIN Manta Ray Boulevard house with Kenworth Tillett’s vehicle parked outside
The dangerous mind of Darrell Bradley
$1.4m debt to B.M.L. is “deliberate” Continued from page 3 Mayor may be reading the wrong Act, however, because he chose to ignore the section about building and maintaining drains. And the sections that prohibit conflict of interest. The Mayor also seems to think he can take the public for fools. City residents know that the streets works has been paid fully by a $20 million dollar bond. In addition, the UDP Central Government has pumped an additional $20m and the Taiwanese Government has also chipped in $10m. And this does not take into account the Southside Alleviation Project monies that began under the former PUP Central Government. So why is the Mayor deliberately not paying BML? Does he want the company to fold and the employees to lose their jobs? Or he enjoys legal battles, which are costly to the Council. Is it that he will privately benefit since his law firm, Lavender Chambers, represents the Council in many legal cases? Or is it that the Council, despite the pumping of millions, is now broke. If so, one reason is not far away from him. He has been paying his foul mouthed father for work which, like himself, some is done at City Hall, and the other at the UDP propaganda radio. The City Council staff is bloated and burdened by part time City Councillors who get full time salaries. Mayor Bradley has become famous for his stubbornness and his glib response to the ongoing money crisis at City Council. He is yet to give an accounting for a loan of $20m, which has long since been finished on the so-called cementing of streets (streets without drains that is, as he is the first Mayor to have ignored Belize City’s drainage problem and just poured cement over city streets). He is indeed a petty and dangerous man at the helm of the city’s affairs.
peration. Notorious UDP operative Kenworth Tillett, who has only recently been staying at a house on Manta Ray Blvd. in Vista del Mar, yesterday July 29th took a woman teacher who teaches at Our Lady of the Way RC School, to transfer her vote to Ladyville. The problem is that the woman teacher does not live in Ladyville. She gave to the registering officers only the street name Manta Ray, Vista del Mar as her address. The truth of the matter is that she lives at number 179 Jasmine Street in Belize City, the address where she has lived for many years. The teacher has never lived in Ladyville, and in fact she has always commuted to Ladyville to teach every day at Ladyville RC School. No doubt Tillett and the woman teacher have concocted the fib that she lives at the address at Manta Ray, Vista del Mar that she gave to the registering officer. This is the address where Tillett has been staying.
CARTOON
Ladyville, Belize District, July 30, 2014 Not being able to keep up with the constant jamming and hard work of Hon. Dolores and her team in Belize Rural Central in terms of the transfer period for voters this July and August, the UDP are resorting to moves of des-
Photo shows real address on Jasmine Street, Belize City, with the teacher’s car in front
31 These dutty UDPs will stop at nothing to manipulate and steal the elections. It is a shame that the woman teacher is putting herself in this position of trying to change her constituency for voting by involving herself in a clear fraud. It is necessary to continue to expose this UDP corruption, and to let them know that we know exactly what they are doing. The UDP haaaafffuuu go!!
PUP FREETOWN UWG MEETS PUP Marshalls Meeting in Cayo The President of the Marshalls Service Corps, Steve Latchman, invites all members, supporters of the divisions in the Western Caucus, to a very important meeting on Saturday, August 9th 2014 at 2:00pm sharp at
the Cahal Pech Resort, Conference Room, San Ignacio Town. Come join us as we move forward. Let us join hands, voices and forces as we continue to serve the people.
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2014