Belize Times December 9, 2011

Sunday, December 11, 2011

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SUNDAY December 11, 2011

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Issue No. 4775

Déjà Vu

IMF to Barrow: bring back VAT! Belize City, December 7, 2011 Leading to the 1998 general elections, the Esquivel/Barrow-led UDP administration was so unpopular with the people that they delayed the elections until August just to spite Belizeans who had begun to show deep scorn at the UDP’s failed leadership.

Belizeans were disgusted at the UDP administration for leading Belize down a spiral in only 3 years in Government. There was gross abuse of workers, the economy was in shambles, life was hard yet PM Manuel

Esquivel and his Deputy Dean Barrow had raised taxes to an all-time high with the 15% VAT Tax at the recommendation of the International Monetary Fund.

There are many close similarities between 1998 and 2011. The UDP is at the helm, the nation is in total crisis, the economy is at its weakest and the IMF has once more found it necessary to place serious ultimatums on a UDP Government which could see the killer VAT Tax return in another form.

A recently formulated IMF docu-

ment delivered to the Barrow Administration advises the UDP that unless they increase the General Sales Tax to a whopping 15%, they are bound to face a $22m decrease in GST revenues next year.

When the UDP took office, GST stood at 10%. It was Prime Minister Dean Barrow, advised by former PM Manuel Esquivel, who increased the tax by 25% because of their inability to grow the economy. Now Barrow faces further economic dangers,

Continued on page 4

Engineer dies in collision on Western Highway Wednesday, December 7, 2011 Wayne Williams, 45, an employee of the National Emergency Management Organization, NEMO, died on the spot at around 6:30 on Tuesday evening when the white Toyota Tacoma he was driving in the direction from Belize City to Belmopan crashed head on into a bus belonging to Westline Bus Company. The passenger bus had left the Belmopan Bus Terminal at 5:15 pm enroute to Belize City when the crash occurred.

Williams, by eyewitness accounts, attempted to overtake a red and white water truck that was parked on the highway with operational problems when he slammed into the bus coming in the opposite direction. The water

Continued on page 4

MORE BAD NEWS FOR BELIZE See page 31

Karen Bodden shines!

PUP Mayoral Candidate Karen Bodden Belize City, December 7, 2011 There is no doubt, following last night’s two-hour debate on LOVE FM, that the People’s United Party Belize City Mayoral Candidate Karen Bodden

Continued on page 6

Wayne Williams The mangled remains of William’s vehicle

Montero, Gambino & Mai MUST GO!

Belize City, December 6th 2011 The People’s United Party has called on the Barrow Administration to take immediate action in the face of what has turned out

Continued on page 6

Rene Montero

Gabino Canto

Roque Mai

BEL/GOB say ‘Hell No!’

to workers’ benefits BELIZE CITY, Tuesday, December 6th, 2011

By Alton Humes It’s now become a case of the piggish, unreasonable and hot-headed Goliath [i.e. the Government of Belize-led Belize Electricity Ltd. (BEL)] telling the equally formidable David [the Belize Energy Workers’ Union (BWEL)]: ‘No bada even try ask mi ’bout no benefits!!’

Continued on page 6

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Sunday, December 11, 2011

From the ghetto streets

Wi Taiyad a Gat Nothin Mr. Barrow Dear Editor, After all the struggling and painful moments we went through for four long years under this so-called

No Progress in Disaster Preparedness Management Dear Editor, I write this column again about the sheer lack of organization when it comes to simply keeping our beloved country from the howling throes of hurricane/storm disasters. But even before that, we must extend a hand to God himself, for allowing his guiding hand to, if not completely passing over us, then protecting us from the threats that were there, and there were plenty of them.

But for all the relief we should feel that we’ve ‘survived’ yet another hurricane season, there remains two pressing matters that, once again, haven’t been addressed by the Government of Belize, and those are 1) the review of shelters and 2) the continuous delay on building the Kendall Bridge in the South of the country.

Kendall’s essentially become a poster child of what Belizeans intensely dislike about this UDP government… the unwillingness to honor something as simple as building a bridge to connect the forgotten and almost unremembered masses just past Punta Gorda Town. While a lot of people would say, ‘Why bother to continue flogging this dead horse? It’s not as if the Prime Minister and/or his Ministers could be bothered to listen anyway….’

It’s true that it may not do much good to speak up, but if we’re not going to, then it is as if we continue to allow injustices like this to continue…. And to the other side, we say: Should you get in, do not be a retread of your past. No mek the people be ‘tunnu baal’; honor

The Party is nothing but the vanguard of the people, the active organ of the people, working at all times in the service of the people.”

what you want to do, and never go back on it, otherwise we’ll be without a prayer for sure.

The next and final issue is shelContinued on page 30

Poor people tax for riding bus Dear Mr. Editor, This morning I was flipping through the television channels and I heard when Joe Bradley’s son who is running for UDP mayor say that he will impose another tax. Imagine that without elections he is talking about increasing taxes.

His father (a man I cannot stand) admitted that he dictates the advice to his androgynous son. On live radio, Darell accepted that he is the same as his father and that his father is responsible for him. This, he said, with all the force of a quarrelsome housewife.

He was snapping at a constructive criticism from a regular caller to Continued on page 30

John Saldivar & GOB Put Our Children in Harm’s Way Dear Editor, Please allow me space in your newspaper to share a very important concern of mine and that of many other parents like myself.

Earlier this year, the Government of Belize declared the Belize City Centre as “condemned”, explaining that its structural integrity was all but lost, rendering it unsafe. I recall the bigheaded Minister of Sports, John Saldivar, boasting on the TV about some new, modern sport facility that will replace the rundown City Centre and be built by the Mexicans. Saldivar even said that the Mexicans were considering imploding the City Centre. Now, I’ve both heard of and have seen skyscrapers being imploded but who the hell goes and implode a matchbox? Does John Saldivar really believe, for one minute, that we are dumb as he is?

Continued on page 30

PUP to GOB: No tolerance for Incompetence!

December 6, 2011 The People’s United Party (PUP) expresses great concern at the announcement by the country’s major Rice Producers to discontinue production of this staple grain.

This has become necessary because of the unfavorable economic situation of producers as a result of the unsustainable decline in sales of rice on the local market. The PUP recognizes the importance of rice as a staple food and acknowledges the hard work and multi-million dollar investment that rice producers have made in this subsector.

The PUP is of the firm belief that the steep decrease in sales is a direct result of the unsound marketing policies and unfair marketing practices implemented by the Government’s Belize Marketing and Development Corporation (BMDC) and of the actions by the Minister of Agriculture, Rene Montero, and his CEO, Gabino Canto.

The PUP reminds the Government of Belize that similar policy implementation in April of 2011 led to the loss of millions of pounds of onions and hundreds of thousands of dollars to hard working onion producers in the North.

Although the Minister of Agriculture promised compensation to farmers, to date, less than $3000.00 of technical assistance has been given by the Ministry to farmers who lost more than a million dollars of produce.

The PUP cautions the Government that any shutdown or delay in the rice production will lead to greater economic hardships and will result in the loss of more than 100 jobs. The situation also poses a threat to the food security level of the country.

On behalf of Belizeans, the PUP demands that the Government of Belize: 1. Remove the incompetent Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Cooperatives and his Chief Executive Officer.

2. Terminate the services of the incompetent Managing Director of the Belize Marketing and Development Corporation.

3. Review and re-define the roles and functions of the BMDC to reflect the best interest of the Belizean farmers.

4. Initiate an immediate comprehensive and independent investigation of the conditions that have led these producers to the brink of economic failure and to implement measures to prevent the collapse of the rice industry.

UDP Government, we ask ourselves: do we need another five more years?

Hell NO! Belizeans, if that happens you can kiss this country goodbye because the little bit of oxygen we are breathing now will be cut off. It’s like a person on a life support machine without any chance of life. Just to show you, look how they have this country.

Everything is up, the crime is out of control, businesses are closing down, the employment rate is high, and the worst part of it, Mr. Barrow, is that your government has the people of Belize living in poverty.

In case you don’t know what that means, you need to look it up in the dictionary. The people are crying out for help, “wi taiyad a gat nothin Mr. Barrow”. Why must only your family enjoy the sweets and not us?

You see Belizeans, it not like some people we know whose bread is buttered on all sides and don’t have to worry about tomorrow and the other day, like we the poor people do. Each day we wake up we have to wonder if it is going to be a better day than yesterday. Belizeans, this Prime Minister doesn’t care about us and the conditions we live in. All he worries about is about getting rich and the poor people get poorer.

I wonder how you sleep at night Mr. Barrow, knowing that you have failed to do your job as a Prime Minister but what can we expect when we have a bunch of dunces running this country to the ground. Mr. Barrow, I will say it again, do the Belizeans a favor and call elections now! “Wi taiyad a gat nothin Mr. Barrow, wi haf to get somethin.”

Until next week, Roberto Peyrefitte

THE BELIZE TIMES EDITOR

Alberto Vellos OFFICE MANAGER

Fay Castillo McKay PRINTING/PERSONNEL SUPERVISOR

Doreth Bevans

LAYOUT/GRAPHIC ARTIST

Chris Williams

MARKETING/ADVERTISING

Rafael Sosa

STAFF REPORTER

Carla Bradley TYPIST

Rachel Arana OFFICE ASSISTANT

Roberto Peyrefitte Printed & Published By The Belize Times Ltd.

#3 Queen Street P.O. BOX 506 Belize City, Belize Tel: 671-8385 Email: belizetimesad@yahoo.com editortimes@yahoo.com

Sunday, December 11, 2011

THE BELIZE TIMES

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Election Gimmick Won’t Work! GST Still 12.5% on Light Bills Wednesday, December 7, 2011 The latest election gimmick of this failed UDP regime came through a subtle proposal last week Thursday when the Belize Electricity Limited wrote to the Public Utilities Commission offering the public a meagre 3.4% decrease on electricity rates. The PUC which is led by a UDP stalwart then, almost on cue, staged a press conference the following day to announce the news.

According to the PUC’s Director of Tariffs and Administration, Leroy Almendarez, and the Director of Electricity, Victor Lewis, BEL claims that it can continue to operate as a viable company with the 3.4% reduction, but the regulatory authority says that it will review BEL’s records to ensure that what the company is proposing is a true reflection of what it can afford at best to shave off consumers’ unbearable electricity rates.

Whatever the game being played by this government by exploiting the light company, Belizeans know better.

Everyone remembers that BEL owes consumers well over thirty million dollars in credit, something that the PUC, which poses as a big, bad no-nonsense authority can do nothing about to ensure that BEL customers get back. The PUC admittedly has to delve deeper into BEL’s accounting records, and hopefully stumbles unto the high expenditure on equipment, when some of the equipment was found to have been stored away and in some cases, eventually vanished.

Everyone also remembers that even with Barrow’s election gimmick of cheaper electricity rates, 3.4% is an insult compared to the 12.5% GST that is crippling Belizean consumers. For ex-

Engineer dies in collision on Western Highway Continued from page 1

truck which belonged to a private company, bus passengers say, had given no sign that it was experiencing problems: no warning lights, makeshift sign on the road of tree branches. Its driver, Ervan Augustine, 38, had stopped to repair a damaged tire.

The driver of the Westline bus, Stanley Ramclam, 32, said that he could do nothing to stop the impact.

After the collision, his windshield shattered, temporarily blinding him. It was his passengers, he said, that guided him on how to steer the bus to a safe stop on the shoulder of the road some 935 feet away from the point of impact.

Ramclam himself complained of pain in the shoulders and back, but none of the 20 passengers, who were mainly government employees coming home to Belize City, were injured.

Wayne Williams was an employee of the National Emergency Management Organization before moving over just a short while ago to the Central Building Authority, reports say. He leaves behind a wife, Lupita, and their children, the youngest of whom is ten months old.

ample, if my light bill is $100 for this month, with the 3.4% decrease it will only drop to $96.50, but when you add the GST, it comes right back up to over $110. Some decrease, Mr Barrow! We all know that BEL has been “slighting” the Belizean people and that it can afford at least a 10% discount, especially since as recently as two months ago it was in negotiations with its Mexican provider, Comision Federal de Electricidad, CFE for cheaper electricity rates. Give the people something meaningful if you so care for them.

3.4% is not a genuine decrease, but merely an insult to the poor.

Your cheap election gimmicks won’t work, Mr Barrow. The people won’t be bought over.

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Déjà Vu

IMF to Barrow: bring back VAT! Continued from page 1

and possibly the IMF’s rebuke, if he doesn’t do as the financial institution says. Barrow is currently waiting on several loans from the World Bank and Inter-American Development Bank, and whether he dances to the IMF tune or not, may have an impact on any future loan disbursements.

To underscore the severity of Belize’s economic troubles, the IMF makes it clear that the Barrow Administration has created very little breathing room. It points out that the current fiscal strategy is “insufficient to place the public debt ratio firmly on a downward trajectory and to address the large financing needs that are projected to emerge over the medium term.” It also makes it clear that the Barrow Administration’s expro-

priations of the telecommunications and electricity companies have worsened the situation. Not only have they turned away investors and investments, but the actions have also increased Government’s liabilities to around half a billion dollars.

Today there is much talk about Barrow calling an early election in January or February. There is also talk that he wants to do this because he doesn’t want Belizeans to impede his plans to increase taxes at the next Budget reading due in March 2012.

Barrow doesn’t know Belizeans have had enough of his administration’s incompetence, and believes he will get the people’s mandate to do whatever he pleases. Have no doubt, the killa VAT is back with the UDP and Barrow.

Sunday, December 11, 2011

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THE BELIZE TIMES

HARD HITTING DREAD Christmas, BRUK Santa Claus!

Amidst the ‘gee wiz, it’s Christmas’ songs playing on the radio, the ringing of needy bells from the Salvation Army Kettle stands, the flickering lights adorning the Christmas Tree at the Mule Park on Albert Street, and the Love FM Christmas parade, this Saturday the United Democratic Party would want the people of Belize to forget under the heap of distraction the horrific Black Christmas of 1995. It was their version of a mini holocaust when just two weeks before the celebration of Christmas, a time of sharing and caring but most important a time of giving, the UDP did the unthinkable.

They fired eight hundred and fifty odd Belizean workers in one day without any remorse or in the words of Barrow’s, No apologies.

It was the saddest Christmas ever in the history of Belize as mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters and relatives, instead of celebrating Christmas, were comforting each other as they started the New Year with mortgages, loans, school fees, and light, water, and telephone bills to pay, but without a job. One family story that stood out was that of Mrs. Burgess, who said in a television interview that when she got her letter letting her know that she was fired she said that she didn’t mind because she was a UDP, but when she got home and met her daughter and her son and they had been were fired, it was too much. She broke down and cried. It was then, she said, that the Belizean people were given an early Christmas gift from the Grinch that stole Christmas, her Christmas and eight hundred and more Belizean families. This was the UDP making of a Black Christmas.

What is interesting Belizeans is this: while this year we got NO mass firings in one day under Barrow, there is still glaring similarities to the 1995 job massacre. Christmas is upon us and no money noh deh. To make matters worse, one out of every six Belizeans is out of a job, our business community is on life support, the sugar industry is being sold to foreigners, the citrus industry is in crisis, overnight tourism is down, the shrimp industry has gotten a black eye in the European market and The World Bank, IMF, Standard & Poors and Moodys all have Belize on their watchlist. The only moneymaker for Belize, oil, rolls out of the country making millions upon millions for our new colonialist.

Under Barrow, everybody is suffering. Well, with the exception of First UDPs, Lois, Denys, Anwar, Kimano, Juliet and Joe, et al, but for all others it’s a dread Christmas. If Santa Claus comes to town, he will be overtaxed and broke. This year he will be hiding out from the people from Jane Usher, Antelope St. Extension, Gungulung, Peter Seico St., Ghost Town, Majestic Alley, Jungle Hutment, Kelly Street, and Belama Phase IV. St. Nick, all dress up in his red and white UDP suit, ain’t coming all right. Scrooge made sure of that. It’s deja vu Belize. 2011 is Barrow’s Black Christmas with a bruk Santa Claus.

Barrow/Singh/SuavecitoBelize’s Modern Day Potemkin Villages During the time of the Crimean War, Empress Catherine of Russia bestowed a significant amount of trust in Prince Grigory Potemkin, her financial advisor and confidant. As the legend goes, Prince Potemkin staged an elaborate hoax to hoodwink the Empress into believing that the new territories of Russia were worth the financial and human capital being incurred by the then great empire.

According to the legend, Potemkin constructed facades and props in the new territories now controlled by the Russian Empire.

When the Empress Catherine would sail pass these new territories, never giving them a closer inspection, all she saw were development and people waving in glee. But behind the façade and props were people living in misery and undeveloped hellholes. In Barrow’s administration we have many Potemkins who continue to try to take the Belizean people for fools.

Last week the Prime Minister had a Economic Forum with the business community to try to galvanized their support – this after almost four years of ineptitude and constant battles with the people who have invested significantly in the development of our nation.

How does Barrow expect to reduce the unemployment rate that stands at almost 25 percent if he is not having meaningful dialogue with the business community? Obviously GOB cannot hire enough people to have a significant impact on unemployment, which is a very important economic indicator. The expansion the economy needs has to come from the local and foreign investors. But this will not happen because local and foreign investors alike do not have confidence in this UDP government. There is also a lack of demand for the goods and services needed in our economy. Simply put, if people do not have jobs they have no money to spend. The Economic Forum last week was Barrow’s facade and prop in trying to mislead the business community!!!

On Monday and Tuesday of this week the Inter American Development Bank (IDB) and the Caribbean Export Development Agency held a Science, Technology and Innovation Forum for the Caribbean. After the forum, Mike Singh held a press conference to talk about all the great plans they have for investment, including medical tourism and Information, Communication and Technology. This is the same Mike Singh that promised that the Ministry of Tourism would get British Airways to come to Belize bringing 50,000 new tourists and that a five star brand name resort would be built. The truth is that the level of investment in Belize has dwindled to almost nothing under this visionless government. If the government really wants the ICT sector to grow then they should release BTL’s grip on bandwidth in this country. The cost of bandwidth is a crime and has held the development of our nation back for far too long. These promises by Singh are again being used as Potemkin’s façade and props!!!

Last Sunday Santino “Suavecito” Castillo bought his way to a victory in the UDP Caribbean Shores Standard Bearer election. He comes with a lot of hype but no substance. He was the Chairman of the Belize Tourism Board during the UDP’s reign of misery from 93 to 98. Under his leadership, the BTB was disorganized, unfocused, and not prepared to develop the tourism industry as a viable and important sector of Belize’s economy. He was also close advisor to Manuel Esquivel who crippled Belize with high taxes and extreme hardship. Three years ago his family’s companies adopted the Animal Park but nothing was done to it. Now that he has gotten back into politics, he is going to rush to get the park done. Suavecito has lived in Caribbean Shores for a long time but has done nothing for the people of the division. He is truly Belize’s modern day Potemkin who wants to sing and cannot sing, and who claims to be a successful businessman when in reality he is a failure. After failing in his own business he has had to run back to his mother’s bosom. Caribbean Shores does not need a modern day Potemkin!!

How long are we going to stand on the bow watching these hollow frames and props get constructed before our very eyes before we say enough? The only saving grace is that we are well aware that these Potemkin Villages are nothing more than illusions and as the time comes to tear one down it is time to construct another. Belize cannot be developed without real plans and real leadership. No more Potemkin Villages!!! No more UDP!

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Karen Bodden shines!

Continued from page 1 is the most capable person to take up the mantle at City Hall.

Although flanked by the other all-male candidates, Bodden stood out as she put forward her presentations with impeccable delivery.

Whether it was the discussion on priority areas of focus, rescuing the city from financial despair, dealing with Central Government, assuring stern leadership throughout the three-year term, or restoring hope and integrity, Bodden led the way with a coherent vision of what she and her team will bring to the table once elected.

Bodden indicated during the debate that while the basic responsibility of the Council is the upkeep of the city’s maintenance, she believes effort must be placed to “rehabilitate the spirit of Belize City residents”. She pointed out to evidence that the City can afford to run its own affairs, but a lack of leadership,

incompetence and mismanagement has prevented it.

Citing the Auditor General’s incomplete report on the Belize City Council’s finances, Bodden listed a number of questionable payments by the current UDP Council which led to the unnecessary spending of almost $180,000.

Bodden said one of her priorities will be to ensure that there is a functional and effective policy for accountability at City Hall.

“I take dealing with the people’s tax monies as serious business,” she remarked, adding that she will carry out a full audit of the Council’s finances in the first few days in office to find out the true state of City Hall.

While the debate drew the participation of the PUP candidate along with the independents and 3rd party candidates, the incumbent UDP candidate never showed up for the debate. Darrel Bradley had been contacted for his participation, but he refused to accept the challenge.

Sunday, December 11, 2011

BEL/GOB says

‘Hell No!’ to workers’ benefits Continued from page 1 It’s a continued power struggle over withheld benefits that were supposed to be given to the workers of the now-Government-controlled company. Last week, it was the BEWU and their executive that led the first volley to demand the longoverdue benefit payments, percentagevalued at 75%. But now, BEL has fired back decisively, with what amounts to a resounding ‘Hell no!!!’

A well-placed source close to the heat of this controversy spoke to us via telephone today, and informed us of a letter drafted by the Board of Directors that essentially states that the Union will not be paid a dime unless it can somehow ‘prove’ through submission of documentation that they are to receive even a portion of what they’ve been asking for.

But the source firmly contends otherwise, saying that regardless of the

Montero, Gambino & Mai MUST GO!

Continued from page 1

to be a Government-induced crisis in the rice industry. Those actions include the removal of the Minister of Agriculture and two of his most-senior officials.

Over the last two weeks, rice farmers in northern Belize have exposed how incompetent leadership in the UDP Administration has led the industry to the brink of collapse. Sales for local farmers have reduced drastically, and apart from unfair preferential treatment practiced by the regulatory body, the Belize Marketing and Development Corporation, farmers have accused the Government of sanctioning the importation of Uruguayan rice.

At first the Ministry of Agriculture vehemently denied importing foreign rice, but that denial has been shredded to pieces as there is evidence that the Government did approve the importation of foreign rice, at times up to 50,000lbs per permit.

While Government’s facilitation has been declared, there has been no investigation as to who and how it was allowed for the imported rice to cripple the local industry to the point major rice producers are closing down their business.

The PUP has called for an independent investigation into the conditions that led to the near collapse of the industry and the re-defining of the roles and functions of the regulatory body, the Belize Marketing and Development Corporation. These should help to place immediate corrective measures to prevent the reoccurrence of the crisis.

But the core of the problem is the incompetence that stinks to high hell in the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries. Over the last few weeks, the Ministry has proven to be led by nincompoops who can’t even get measly documents to the European Union in time to save Belize’s access to the EU market for

its shrimp. Consequently, there has been the crisis in the onion industry fomented by the importation of Holland-based onions when there was enough local supply for the market. This led to major losses for local onion growers. There was also the illegal importation of GMO corn seeds which could have destabilized the market for local corn growers. Luckily, the experiment never went through.

Most recent is the Ministry of Agriculture’s inability to export local beef. This caused a public spat between PM Dean Barrow and CEO Gambino, which ended with Barrow embarrassing his whole administration claiming they are incompetent 9 out of 10 times.

To deal with the incompetence, the PUP has called for the removal of Rene Montero as Minister of Agriculture, and the firing of Gabino “Gambino” Canto as CEO, as well as Roque Mai as the Managing Director of BMDC. The three men have always been in the center of every controversy.

The PUP cautions the Barrow Administration that any shutdown or delay in the rice production will lead to greater economic hardships and will result in the loss of more than 100 jobs. The situation also poses a threat to the food security level of the country.

changes to the company’s structure via the approved nationalization drafted by Prime Minister Dean Barrow, any payments are guaranteed because of a collective agreement agreed upon by the union and the company, especially and specifically if, as the source believes, the company’s ‘targets’ (in profits, etc.) have been met. The source also contends that there’s not just money at stake, but a “moral and ethical responsibility” to honor the agreement. Even as of a recent meeting, accusations of BEL’s ‘stonewallling’ on the issue also came to light.

But it’s now back to the drawing board for both parties, as the BEWU executive will meet to discuss further strategy and BEL’s Board of Directors will meet to discuss the issue once more. But regardless of it all, only one thing matters now - the hope that BEL will not leave so many of its customers in the dark this Christmas. The BELIZE TIMES will continue to follow this beguiling story.

Sunday, December 11, 2011

THE BELIZE TIMES

No fair trial for senior BDF officers?

Belize City, December 6, 2011 The Belize Defence Force (BDF) was once a beacon in this region for it professionalism, hard training and discipline and had the respect of not only the Defence Forces in the Caribbean but also that of the Guatemala Armed forced (GAF) under the People’s United Party (PUP) Government. But it has quickly sunk to its lowest under Dean Barrow and his failed and impotent United Democratic Party Government. Even retired BDF General Robert Sydney Garcia, one of the UDP’s cronies, would have to admit that the UDP is demoralizing and destroying a once proud and battle-ready Force he once commanded under the progressive People’s United Party.

The latest security scandal to hit the BDF has come as no surprise to senior officers in the BDF. There has been gross incompetence under Dean Barrow, his Defence Minister Carlos Perdomo and their CEO, Allen Whylie, who have failed to provide adequate financing and support to the BDF. The BDF’s patrols in the northern border with Mexico and southern and western border with Guatemala are almost non-existent. This is what has made it so easy for Guatemalan criminals to rape our virgin forest, attack innocent Belizean farmers and terrorize visiting tourists. The Mexican drug cartel is believed to have its tentacles in high places in the UDP party, and those in high places in the Government. It is no surprise, then, that the President of United State of America, Barack Obama, has called into question Belize’s National Security under the UDP government.

Belizeans should be alarmed that Dean Barrow, Perdomo, and Whylie are not concerned and have made no serious effort to recover the 42 deadly weapons that were stolen from the BDF armoury at Price Barrack almost three months ago. Those weapons could be in the hands of deadly and dangerous criminals in our communities. Instead, Perdomo and Whylie have offered the criminals an embarrassing $30,000 reward for the return of the stolen weapons. What a shame!

There are many serious issues that are affecting the BDF under this govern-

ment. There are serious allegations of misappropriation of funds for soldiers working police duties under the Restore Belize project. Reports of pilfering of fuel, ration, and even scarce motor vehicle and aircraft engine parts are rampant with no one held culpable. Now, even rice for the POOR has gone missing from the custody of the BDF. While Dean Barrow UDP’s supports the criminals with hard earn tax payer dollars of $50,000.00 a week thru the “Hydro Minister” and another $6,500.00 a month to “Mother Blood” for her George Street Gangsters, the BDF Officers and Soldiers like many Civil Servants, Teacher and Police who barely earn $2,000.00 a month continues monthly to struggle to meet the high cost of living in their respectful communities. The serious shortage of manpower to complete overburden Police task seems endless.

The incompetence of the UDP Defence and Foreign Affairs ministry which oversees and managed the joint patrol “LINK UP” with BDF/GAF to curb illegal activities on the border has lead to dangerous border tensions on the “Artificial Border” endangering our soldier’s lives. Yet Dean Barrow UDP’s continue to treat us at the BDF as though we are the problem for his government corruption and incompetence. There are 42 deadly weapons in the hands of the criminal out there Dean Barrow. Stop using the BDF as a scape goat for Perdomo and Whylie incompetence. The Proud Women and Men of the Belize Defence Force Officer Corp are of graved concern of the predetermined/premeditated verdict of guilt without a fair trial by you and your UDP’s Cabinet in recommending to Robert Garcia Security Service Commission (SSC) for the discharge of the four Officers that are presently on administrative leave pending investigation for the breach of security for the stolen weapons. The UDP’s incompetence and the treats to our national security have definitely brought our Defence Force to its lowest morale ever that the BDF has experience in its 33 years history. Understand Dean Barrow the BDF will stand “Shoulder to Shoulder” to fight off the Tyrants until there will be no more pain and sorrow.

Municipal Elections Workshop held in Corozal Corozal Town, December 5, 2011

By Roberto Pasos On Sunday, December 4, 2011 a Municipal Elections Preparation Workshop was held at the People’s United Party office in Corozal Town for municipal candidates. The objective of the workshop was to enhance understanding of the Town Council Act; Representation of the People’s Act – Voters Registration; and Personal Development.

Participants also looked at their roles and responsibilities, expectations, attitude, communication strate-

gies, public relations and team work.

Furthermore, the training is intended to help candidates be better prepared to deal efficiently with the management and role and responsibilities of the Corozal Town Council after being elected in March 7, 2012.

The one day workshop was conducted by Ms. Merilyn Young, a highly qualified Human Resource Manager and organized by Ms. Narda Garcia.

Mr. Gregorio “Papas” Garcia Jr. Corozal Bay PUP Standard Bearer was also present for the training.

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“Political instability” suspends major health project in Belize BELIZE CITY, Wednesday, December 7th, 2011

By Alton Humes Sanford Health, a United States-based international health improvement founded by philanthropist-businessman Mr. Denny Sanford and care system operating of the state of North Dakota, was supposed to have built, or started building, a Children’s Pediatric Hospital in Belize as of this past summer. But now, international news outlets have reported that not only will the project not happen as planned, but also that it can be blamed on, “political instability” in Belize.

According to an online article posted to a website, the ‘Argus Leader’ dated November 28th, 2011, the organization’s Executive Vice-President of Development and Research, Ruth Krystopolski, said while discussing plans for a new clinic in the African country of Ghana that the project in Belize is “currently on hold due to priorities of identified health care and philanthropy partners and political and government instability…”

Unfortunately, while the statement says a lot about how Belize is viewed from the outside, it also means there will be endless speculation as to exactly why the project which would have improved and provided quality pediatric services is being suspended, particularly now that such a clinic would have benefitted many Belizeans. You may also remember that when the project was announced via the groundbreaking ceremony in May of 2010 there was no UDP Government presence (not even of the Minister of Health, Hon. Pablo Marin), and only those of 2 PUP representatives, Rt. Hon. Said Musa and immediate past Party Leader, Hon. John Briceño.

It’s uncomfortable enough that the Prime Minister, Hon. Dean Barrow, has to deal with downgrades in credit ratings from Standard and Poor’s, as well as the International Monetary Fund on his heels about his spending habits that aren’t lifting Belizeans out of poverty’s continued shadow. So all we here at the BELIZE TIMES can do is let the pundits go to town on this one, and we’ll be eager to hear the PM’s response.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Five accused murderers walk, despite DPP’s deal with accomplice

Edwin “Drive” Flowers

Brandon Smith

Deshawn Mena

BELIZE CITY, Wed. Dec.7, 2011

By Roy Davis Five men charged with the murder of Randy Coye, 19, were acquitted of the charge in the Court of Justice Adolph Lucas on Friday, December 2.

The five are Edwin “Drive” Flowers, 29; Brandon Smith, 25; Deshawn Mena, 25; Leon Gray, 22; and Kenroy Humes, 22. The jury of 5 men and 7 women deliberated for less than 4 hours before it arrived at its verdict.

Coye was killed on October 2, 2009 at Lord Ridge Cemetery.

Emmanuel Willoughby, an alleged accomplice became the chief witness for the prosecution. He was granted immunity from prosecution by the of-

fice of the Director of Public Prosecutions after he gave the police a statement that implicated the five accused.

Willoughby testified that the killing of Caye was in retaliation to the shooting of Smith and he was present when Coye was stabbed beaten and shot and a piece of stick was shoved up his anus.

All five accused gave statements from the dock in which they denied having anything to do with the incident, and claimed that they were not at the scene when the incident occurred. Each of them brought an alibi witness who testified and corroborated their statements.

Obviously the jury had doubts

about the credibility of Willoughby’s testimony.

Justice Lucas in his summation warned the jury of the special need for caution when dealing with Willoughby’s testimony because Willoughby might have testified to save himself.

Smith and Mena were represented by attorney Arthur Saldivar while attorney Anthony Sylvestre represented Flowers, Humes and Gray.

The Director of Public Prosecutions Cheryl Lyn Vidal represented the prosecutions.

Last year the five accused were freed of the charge when it was dismissed at the Magistrate’s Court due

Accused rapist acquitted BELIZE CITY, Wed. Dec. 7, 2011

By Roy Davis Richard Russel, 30, who was charged with rape of a mother of a 9 month old baby girl, was acquitted of the charge yesterday in the court of Justice Herbert Lord.

The trial was aborted when the complainant took the witness stand and in tears said she does not wish to proceed with the matter. She did not give a reason why she did not want to proceed.

As a result, Crown Counsel Shemieza Smith, who represented the prosecution, said that in light of the indication by the complainant, the Crown Counsel is compelled to offer no further evidence.

Justice Lord then directed the jury of 5 men and 4 women to return a formal verdict of not guilty.

Justice Lord told Russell that the case has been aborted since no evidence was offered and he was free to go.

The alleged rape occurred between 6:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. on

Richard Russel

September 5, 2008.

The complainant, who was 16 year old high school student at the time, reported to the police that she was walking on Simon Lamb Street, between Freetown Road and Kelly Street, when a car drove up alongside her and someone from the car forced her into the car.

She said she was driven to a green house on Antelope Street Extension where she was raped.

Leon Gray

Kenroy Humes

to lack of evidence. But they were rearrested and re-indicted.

Shoe salesman busted with 300 pounds of cocaine BELIZE CITY, Tuesday, December 6th, 2011

By Alton Humes A Mexican national is in serious trouble with Belize law-makers after he was busted with over 300 pounds of cocaine last Friday, December 2nd.

Martin Rafael Machado Urias, 44 years old, was about to cross his white Nissan pickup truck across the Santa Elena northern border on Friday morning when he was ambushed by Police.

At first, nothing suspicious was found in the vehicle nor inside the cabin. Urias claimed he was a shoe salesman. But it’s when he was taken to the Corozal Town Police Station that Police made a big bust.

Inside the truck’s cabin, authorities found at least 111 bricks of cocaine (all labeled with the letters ‘XT’), weighing 1.1 kilos each. The drugs rounded off to nearly 300 pounds of cocaine, with a street value amounting to US$2,500,000 (or just over BZC$5,000,000).

Machado was arrested, charged and arraigned on the same day with the charges of ‘Drug Trafficking’ and ‘Importation

Martin Rafael Machado Urias of Drugs’. For these counts, he pled guilty and received 16 years total imprisonment (8 on each count), but he will serve only 8 years under concurrent terms. But should he choose to default on BZC$200,000 in fines imposed because of the sentences, he may serve an added 24 years in prison under consecutive terms.

Authorities have explained that Urias’ suspicious movements throughout Belize raised flags. It is reported he had made multiple trips between Guatemala and Mexico through Belize. It is not clear whether he was involved in illicit activity all that time.

Police sources say US Drug Enforcement Agency officers assisted in the information gathering and bust. We have been unable to confirm.

Sunday, December 11, 2011

9

THE BELIZE TIMES

Senior Citizen dies, following vicious home invasion BELIZE CITY, Wednesday, December 7th, 2011

By Alton Humes 66 year old Castula Westby, who was victim to a brutal home invasion/ stabbing, passed away from her injuries this past Saturday, December 3rd, 2011.

Westby was at her Zericote Street home on Sunday 27th November when the premises was entered by a depraved figure, who after not finding whatever else he was apparently looking for decided to attack the defenseless woman. She was stabbed 13 times all over body, in-

cluding inside her mouth, and specifically, her tongue (which had to be sewn up together again).

Now that her grieving family knows that Police have upgraded the death to a homicide, has there been any actual progress made in the investigation?

Police Press Officer, Sergeant Fitzroy Yearwood he did his usual ‘song-and-dance’ with reporters, saying that there were suspects in custody, including a few members of Westby’s family (at least up to this past weekend), but otherwise having no other real answers or insights into the case.

There are those‘ street sources’ who are suggesting that the retiree may have been a target because of issues/problems with her house. The police’s investigations continue.

BSI engaged in ‘union-busting’ BELIZE CITY, Tuesday, December 6th, 2011

By Alton Humes In another case of a companyorganization that simply refuses to do what’s right, Belize Sugar Industries Ltd. (BSI) is being accused of union-busting when it decided to promote staffers that were linked directly to the Belize

Workers’ Union (BWU). The anonymous source leveling these accusations and no less than a highranking member of the Union, spoke to us via telephone today about these unsavory goings-on inside BSI. The source admitted to being no less than “shocked” by his and his fellow Unionists’ ap-

High school student

critically wounded by gunshot Wednesday, December 7, 2011 Deshawn Goff, 17, a second form student at Maud Williams High School on Dolphin Street is in a critical condition at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital after he was shot on Tuesday night right in front of his home on Welch Street.

Goff was with relatives inside his grandmother’s yard on Gibnut Street, just a stone’s throw away from his house, when his girlfriend came to look for him. The two left his grandmother’s yard enroute to his house when a lone gunman came running from through the nearby Fuller’s Alley, closed in on Goff and shot him once in the right side of his abdomen. Goff ran back in the direction of his grandmother’s house and as he did, reports are that his attacker tried to shoot him again, but the gunned snapped.

A relative has said that just a couple weeks prior to this attack, Goff had been targeted in an area not far from his home. In that incident, he was robbed of his gold chain, bicycle, cash and food. The robber also cut him with a sharp

pointments to the staff within the factory, especially since he nor his fellow workers were ever considered for appointment before this (and worked far different jobs within the factory for many years), which potentially makes for a stronger case of union-busting.

To make matters much worse, the three workers, including the aforementioned Union head, were essentially told that if they wanted to keep their new jobs, they couldn’t have any contact (however negligible) with their union brothers. But if they refused and walked away, their work within the factory, even if it was to build support for those not joining the

Union, would get much harder.

But it doesn’t end there, as even small meetings with the recently-elected leadership of the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers’ Association (BSCFA) were turned into an excuse to keep the source / Union boss from his ‘allies’ within the organization, and attempt to foster internal and external divisions all over.

But even with no problems between the groups, BSI – owing debts and in need of a new owner – is using deplorable tactics. But will it stave off the inevitable support it will need to keep going?

This story is far from over, and the BELIZE TIMES pledges to keep following this developing story.

UNDAGROUND Deshawn Goff

object in that attack. It is not certain if it was the same person who went after Goff, in fear that his identity may have been recognised.

Investigators say they are looking for someone residing on Iguana Street for questioning about the incident.

The bullet ruptured a portion of Goff’s liver and his large intestine and doctors have had to perform two surgeries to repair the damage.

His condition remains very guarded as his family prays for a full recovery.

Music and Movies Baymen Avenue Belize City

THE WORLD IS READING

THE BELIZE TIMES www.belizetimes.bz back by popular demand

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Sunday, December 11, 2011

BELIZE'S #1 SPORTS PAGE

Police beats up BWS and BTL Belize City, Sunday, December 2, 2011 The Police Team posted consecutive wins in the Belize City softball competition held at the Rogers’s Stadium over the weekend.

The Police arrested Belize Water Services 25-1 on Saturday night. Linton Broaster, Nicole Arnold, Japhet Young and Jody Ingram led the cops’ offensive with 4 runs in the 1st inning to lead 4-0. The entire diamond scored in the 2nd inning, while Arnold and Young circled the bases 2 times to lead 15-1.

The entire Police diamond scored again in the 3rd inning, and this time Broaster and Sonia Augustus circled the bases 2 times! Leonora Morales, on the mound for the Police, struck out 4 batters. Only Ashley Hemsley scored for BWS in the 3rd inning at which time the game was called by mercy rule.

The Police also arrested Belize Telemedia team 14-2 by mercy rule in the 4th inning on Friday night.

The finals schedule is as follows: Thursday, 8 December 2011 Female Championships Game 1 St. Catherine Academy vs. Wesley College Male Championships Game 1 St. John’s College vs. Sadie Vernon Technical High School Games Friday, 9 December 2011 Female Championships Game 2 Wesley College vs. St. Catherine Academy Male Championships Game2 Sadie Vernon Technical High School vs. St. John’s College Saturday, 10 December 2011 Championship Game 3 if necessary

Nicole Arnold made 4 runs

Enid Dakers scores

Other games:

Kitkat Babba vs. Belize Water Services – 20-5 Ministry of Education vs.

Babba Shop Kitkat – 26-2 Babba Shop Kitkat vs.

KHMH – 22-15 Ministry of Education vs.

Tuff e’Nuff – 18-4

High school basketball finals start Thursday SJC boys lead Belize City, Tuesday, December 6, 2011 Game 1 of the Secondary Schools basketball championship finals will be held this Thursday when St. Catherine Academy meets Wesley College in the female competition and St. John’s College takes on Sadie Vernon Technical High School.

Both Sadie Vernon and Wesley College advanced to the finals on Tuesday evening after defeating their opponents. The Sadie Vernon boys faced off with Wesley College and clenched victory when the game ended 79-65.

Top scorers were #1 Kashief Thomas with 42 points, #7 Andrew Ortiz with 11 points for Sadie Vernon and #13 Brian White with 22 points for Wesley College.

Wesley girls eliminated the Anglican Cathedral College 29-8. Top scorers were #6 Genae Samuels with 11 points for Wesley and #15 Janelle Grinage with 8 points for ACC.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Joycelyn Galvez scores

basketball playoffs Belize City, Monday, December 5, 2011 The St. John’s College leads the Central Secondary School Sports Association (CSSSA) basketball championship finals, following victories in the playoffs and semifinals at the Belize City Center on Monday, December 5.

The St. John’s College boys entered the finals by eliminating the Nazarene High School boys 62-57 in Monday’s semifinals. It was touch and go, as the Nazarene boys were leading 26-21 at the half and were still up at the end of the 3rd quarter. But in the 4th, their defense slacked off, allowing SJC to take over and lead to the final buzzer.

Devin Daly led SJC with 24 points, while Tarique Middleton had 10 points. Nazarene’s Alejandro Baptist scored 20 points.

Continued on page 12

Nazarene’s Anthony Neal scored 12pts

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BELIZE'S #1 SPORTS PAGE

THE BELIZE TIMES

Sunday, December 11, 2011

SCA girls lead basketball playoffs Belize City, Monday, December 5, 2011 The St Catherine’s Academy and Wesley College girls won through to the Central Secondary Schools Sports Association (CSSSA) basketball championship finals, following victories in the playoffs and semifinals at the Belize City Center on Monday, December 5.

SCA girls made it to the finals by upsetting the 5-time nation-

SJC boys lead

basketball playoffs Continued from page 11 The SJC boys reached semifinals by blowing out the Canaan 7th Day Adventist High School boys 99-42 last Thursday playoffs. Tarique Middleton and Devin Daly scored 20 points each, while Kyle Middleton added 18 points. The SJC boys led 11-12 in the 1st quarter and 33-26 at the half. By the 3rd quarter, they opened a 70-28 pointspread and stretched it even further to 9942 all the way to the final buzzer.

Other games:

Wesley College vs.

Anglican Cathedral College – 50-25 Nazarene High School vs.

Edward P. Yorke – 71-66 Sadie Vernon vs. Excelsior High – 96-45

Kyle Middleton scored 9 points

SCA team

al basketball champs, Gwen Lizarraga High School girls 19-15. Gilda Estrada led SCA with 11 points, Kursha Pollard added 5 points, Kafira Gill hit a jump-shot and Shantel Castillo added a free throw.

The SCA girls’ full-court press completely shut down Gwen Lizarraga’s star shooter Ann Ma, who was held to a miserly 2 points from the charity stripe. Deandra Coote led Gwen Liz with 5pts, while Kenya Brown and Reenya

Gentle scored 4 points each.

The SCA girls anticipate no trouble in the finals as they also defeated the Wesley College girls 23-14 last Wednesday. Again Gilda Estrada led with 14 points, while Kursha Pollard added 5 points, and Kafira Gill and Chelsi Noralez tossed in a bucket each.

Other game: Gwen Liz vs. Anglican Cathedral College - 44-5

Central kids lead Gold wins at 2011 Special Olympics Belize City, Saturday, December 3, 2011 Athletes with special needs from the Central Districts of the Belize and Cayo topped the medal count when Special Olympics Belize hosted its 8th annual National Games at the M.C.C. grounds all-day on Saturday, December 3. The Games included track and field events, as well as the five a side football games, and was contested by teams from the North, Central and South regions of Belize. Over 100 athletes participated in the day event.

The South Region of Stann Creek and Toeldo districts were 2nd in the medal count and the North Region of Corozal and Orange Walk ranked 3rd. The day started with a Torch Run at 8:30 am.

The goal of Special Olympics is to provide physical exercise and athletic competitions for all persons with intellectual disabilities. The committee thanks its guests as well as the sponsors who made the event a great success. Sponsoring this year’s event was Continued on page 13

Philip Meighan leaps to 1st place

Sunday, December 11, 2011

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Continued from page 12 SMART, Social Security, Atlantic Bank, The DPM, Barrow and Williams, The Belize Bank, San Isidro Construction Centre, Cuello’s Distillery, La Popular Bakery, Crystal Refreshing Water, Caribbean Chicken. They also thank the Board members, coaches, volunteers and everyone who helped one way or the other.

Results: 30m Walk (Females aged 5-7) Orange Walk’s Vinette Galvez – Gold Toledo’s Amelia – silver Orange Walk’s Briannie Chavarria – Bronze Cayo’s Carlicia Hyde - 4th place 30m Walk (Males aged 5-7) Corozal’s Oliver Coba – Gold Corozal’s Jaleel Hamilton – Silver Cayo’s Karim McNichol – Bronze Stann Creek’s Rodel Tasher – 4th place 60m Walk (Females aged 8-10) Belize district’s Jaime Muschamp – Gold Orange Walk’s Laisha Bobadilla – Silver Toledo’s Brenda Cucul – Bronze Corozal’s Shadelly Sanchez – 4th place Kenisha Eman – 5th place Cayo’s Kera Smith - 6th place 60m walk (Male aged 8-10) Stann Creek’s Isaiah Gentle – Gold Toledo’s Adrian Parham – Silver Corozal’s Jaser Cob – Bronze Corozal’s Sandro Cob – 4th place Corozal’s Xander Velasquez – 5th place 80m walk (Females aged 11-13) Cayo’s Anika Lewis - Gold Naila Matuz – Silver Punta Gorda’s Jarumi Lopez – Bronze Orange Walk’s Elizannie Reyes - 4th place Belize District’s Kaitlyn Guzman - 5th place Felicia Cherrington - 6th place 80m walk (Males aged 11-13) Toledo’s Randall Winwright – Gold Belize District’s James Jenkins – Silver Larry Chi – Bronze Rigel Dominguez – 4th place Michael Flores – 5th place Marcel Lucas – 6th place 30m Run (Females) Toledo’s Amelia - Gold Toledo’s Briannie Chavarria – Silver Corozal’s Jilliani Marin – Bronze Cayo’s Carlisia Hyde – 4th place 30m Run (Males) Corozal’s Oliver Coba - Gold Rodel Tasher – Silver Jaleel Hamilton – Bronze 60m Sprint (Females aged 8-10) Jaime Muschamp – Gold Stann Creek’s Rondine Tasher – Silver Shantel Roland – Bronze Sheeny – 4th place Laisha Bobadilla – 5th place 60m Sprint (Males aged 8-10) Rodel Tasher – Gold Cyril Blanco – Silver Corozal’s Jaser Cob – Bronze Xander Velasquez - 4th place 80m Sprint (Females aged 11-13) Belize District’s Ebony Gordon – Gold Corozal’s Rosa Matuz – Silver Elizannie Reyes – Bronze Belize District’s Felicia Cherrington – 4th place Cayo’s Ariel Bradley – 5th place Christine Lewis – 6th place 80m Sprint (Males aged 11-13) Toledo’s Ashton Bowden – Gold Santos Flores – Silver James Jenkins – Bronze Christopher Miller – 4th place Theodore Jex – 5th place Imer Cantun – 6th place 80m Sprint (Females aged 14-16) Toledo’s Jamelia Hynes – Gold Belize district’s Pricilia – Silver Orange Walk’s Eliziannie Reyes – Bronze Kaitlyn Guzman - 4th place

Jarumi Lopez – 5th place Corozal’s Evelyn Che – 6th place 80m Sprint (Males aged 14-16) Belize district’s Tremaine Vernon - Gold Stann Creek’s Jamal Lorenzo – Silver James Jenkins – Bronze Brian Leslie – 4th place 100m Open Sprint (Females) Jamelia Hynes – Gold Ebony Gordon – Silver Belize district’s Lucilla – Bronze Jarumi Lopez – 4th place Evelyn Che – 5th place 100m Open Sprint (Males) Tremaine Vernon - Gold Jamal Lorenzo - Silver Toledo’s Norman Cucul – Bronze James Jenkins 4th place Cayo’s Marco Domingo – 5th place Shot put (Male) Stann Creek’s Cyril Martinez – Gold (8.40 meters) Belize District’s – Raheem Jones - Silver (6.10m) Norman Cucul – Bronze (5.30m) Belize District’s Marcel Lucas – 4th place (4.19m) Shot put (Female) Evelyn Che - Gold (3.26m) Corozal’s Seleni Magana - Silver (2.93m) Open Shot put (Male) Jamal Lorenzo – Gold (7.45) Belize District’s David Bowen - Silver (7.23m) Ernesto – Bronze (1.65m)

BELIZE'S #1 SPORTS PAGE

Central kids lead Gold wins at 2011 Special Olympics Long Jump (Female) Toledo District’s Jamelia Hynes - Gold (4.78m) Jaime Muschamp – Silver (3.59m) Felicia Cherrington – Bronze (3.27m) Kaitlyn Guzman - 4th place Long Jump (Females aged 17 and over) Orange Walk’s Christine Rhaburn - Gold Long Jump (Males) Belize district’s Philip Meighan – Gold (5.02m) David Andrews – Silver (4.25m) Clayton Fitzgibbons – Bronze (3.71m) Baseball Throw (Females aged 8-10) Toledo’s Brenda Cucul – Gold (58.8ft) Corozal’s Laisha Briceno - Silver (37ft) Laisha Bobadilla – Bronze (27 ft) Baseball throw (Males aged 8-10) Miguel Gongora – Gold (137 ft) Daijan Daniels – Silver (110ft) Toledo’s Max – Bronze (84 ft) Corozal’s Jaser Cob – 4th place (81ft) Softball Throw (Males aged 11-13) Belize district’s Sylvan Lonaves – Gold (181ft) Ashton Bowden – Silver (175ft) Stann Creek’s Michael Flores – Bronze (162.9ft) Belize District’s Marie Jacobs – Gold (108ft) Elizannie Reyes – Silver (93.3ft) Belize District’s Ebony Gordon – Bronze (89.3ft) 4x100m relays (Females) Belize district’s Ebony Gordon, Jaime Muschamp, Kaitlyn Guzman, Yolanda – Gold South’s Melanie Francis, Jarumi Lopez, Chistine Lewis, Jamilia Hynes – Silver North’s Rosa Matuz, Dalia Martinez, Naila

Matuz, Evelyn Che – Bronze 4x100m relays (Males) Belize district Glen Bowen, David Bowman, David Andrews, Jamal Cherrington – Gold Southern Team boys – Silver North Team – Bronze Five-a-side football (Males) Southern boys – Gold Defeated Belize district – 6-1 Defeated Orange Walk – 5-1 Belize district – Silver Defeated Orange Walk – 7-4 Orange Walk – Bronze

“Clash of the Titans” Karate Tournament Results Belize City, December 6, 2011 The Martial Arts Academy held its annual Open Karate Tournament at the Bird`s Island this past Sunday December 4th. This year the name of the event was changed to “The Clash of The Titans” as it stressed mostly on the kumite (Sparring) aspect of Karate. The event was attended by all dojos (karate schools) that are a part of the federation and was truly a spectacle of national interest. The event boasted for the second time this year the use of the electronic scoreboards donated by Social Security Board which was one of the mechanisms that upgraded the presentation of the sport. The event also had the assistance of some of the new nationally trained Judges which also serves as a testament that the federation is doing its best in order to meet World Karate Federation standards.

The Martial Arts Academy ranked first place of all the participating schools by acquiring a total of nine trophies and 17 medals. Hats off to Anthony Lord (Assistant Instructor Martial Arts Academy) who gracefully tore up the adult male sparring category. Hequief Williams was given an award for acquiring a total of 20 gold medals and a silver for the year 2011 alone, and he also received the 1st place trophy in this event. Earon Grinage of the MAA showed up for the event after two years of break due to PSE preparation and easing in to life at secondary school; and though he was not able to take home the big win, settled with a silver medal after taking down two giants almost twice his size before finally losing to Christian Codd: a true testament to the hard

work he had been doing before his break.

Finally, kudos goes out to the Horizon Academy who came out to compete and their student, David Maheia, who took home the first place trophy in katas. Also Grace Chapel Primary is not to be outdone as Alijah Gutierrez took home the trophy for the youngest kumite category.

The Martial Arts Academy has won the Federation’s bid to host the 2012 National Senior Championship and looks forward to creating another exciting event as Sensei Leon Guild has Chief Instructor of the MAA has officially announced that he will be brushing the dust off his competitions gears as things seem to be heating up in the country.

Category – Kata 5-7yrs male 1st place – David Maheia (MAA) 2nd place – Alston Gutierrez (MAA) 3rd place – Matthew Riverol 5-7yrs female 1st place – Nicole De La Rosa 2nd place – Ayana Reyes 3rd place – Victoria Usher (MAA) 8-10yrs male 1st place – Shaheed Perez (MAA) 2nd place – Cuba Perrote (MAA) 3rd place – Jared Beason (MAA) -10yrs female 1st place – Trina Galvez 2nd place – Summer De La Rosa 3rd place – Fatima Ramirez/Cecilia Gregorio 11-15yrs male 1st place – Vincent Hulse 2nd place – Charles Bacab 3rd place – James Sierra 11-15yrs female 1st place – Meghan Hall 2nd place – Siobhan Urbina 3rd place – Isake Perez (MAA) 16 yrs+ male 1st place – Rafael Quiterio

2nd place – Marvin Quiterio 3rd place – Arnoldo Maldonado 16yrs+ female 1st place – Kumiko Hoshi 2nd place – Audrey Newsham Category-Kumite 5-6yrs male 1st place – Alijah Gutierrez (MAA) 2nd place – Andrew Gillett (MAA) 3rd place – Gilbert Gibson (MAA) 5-6yrs female 1st place – Kylie Quiroz 2nd place – Ayana Reyes 3rd place – Victoria Usher (MAA) 7-9yrs male 1st place – Sidney Wade (MAA) 2nd place – Maurice Savery (MAA) 3rd place – Alston Gutierrez (MAA) 7-9yrs female 1st place – Rhea Reyes (MAA) 2nd place – Alexia Guerra 3rd place – Isene Romero 10-12yrs male 1st place – Henrick Williams (MAA) 2nd place – Basil Brown 3rd place – Camryn Weatherburn (MAA) 13-15yrs male 1st place – Christian Codd (MAA) 2nd place – Earon Grinage (MAA) 3rd place – Elijah Juan (MAA) 13-15yrs female 1st place – Nerici Pastor 2nd place – Cara Pastor 3rd place – Isake Perez (MAA) 16-17yrs male 1st place – Henquief Williams (MAA) 2nd place – Tyrin Tasher (MAA) 3rd place – Shawn Grant (MAA) 18yrs+ males 1st place – Anthony Lord (MAA) 2nd place – Jamaal Avilez 3rd place – Argazavad Sankey (MAA) 18yrs+ females 1st place – Audrey Newsham 1st place - Myra Pinelo

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Sunday, December 11, 2011

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THE BELIZE TIMES

PEOPLE Clive “Bridge” Smart

was Bridge Supervisor at 82 BELIZE CITY, Tues. Dec. 6, 2011

By Roy Davis Clive Smart, 82, a.k.a. “Bridge”, has been involved in the swinging of the Belize Swing Bridge and Belchina Bridge for most of his adult life.

Smart started working as a laborer for Belize City Council at pound Yard in 1960. He was one of four men who used to climb unto the Belize Swing Bridge then swing it manually. Shortly after he began working Smart was promoted to bridge supervisor.

Smart said a man by the name of Mr. Betson was the City engineer and Mr. Betson recommended his promotion to Fred Westby, who was Mayor at the time, after Mr. Betson saw him clear and asphalt machine.

Smart supervised the swinging of the Belize Swing Bridge so efficiently and for such a long period that he eventually acquired the name “Bridge”.

He retired on October 28, 1991. But he was soon rehired by Mrs. Woods, who was the Town Clerk at the time.

“Mrs. Woods told me that the Belize City Council has rehired me and I can put all my retirement benefits in the bank, which I did,” said Smart.

Smart was the bridge Supervisor up until March 12, 2011.

“I was given a letter in which I was not told why I was being dismissed, only that I have reached the age where my service is no longer required,” said Smart.

As Bridge Supervisor, Smart was not only responsible for the supervision of the swinging of the Belize Swing Bridge.

He also supervised the swinging of the Belchina Bridge even though it was swung with electricity.

The Belcan Bridge however, was under the supervision of Central Government.

Belchina Bridge cannot swing manually but Belcan Bridge can.

Smart said the swinging of any of the bridges or all three would take place as early as 5:45a.m.

so that it finishes in time for employees going to work to be able to cross and reach work in time. In the evenings the swinging would take place at 5:30p.m.

Smart explained that there are regulations to follow before any of the bridges are swung.

“We have to notify the Police Department, the Fire Department and the Medical department before we swung the bridge,” he said.

Smart also explained that if he was about to give the okay for the swinging of the Swing Bridge and a funeral procession were coming from Holy Redeemer Church to go over the Bridge he would have to wait until the procession passes before the bridge is swung.

Smart also explained

that in cases where special swinging was requested, the Swing Bridge would not swing until 2:30p.m. so as to allow jurors to be able to reach the Supreme Court in time.

Smart said the fee to swing any or all three of the bridges were not costly. For each sailing boat fee was $1.50, for barges the fee was $5.00 per barge and big boats the fee was $3.00 for each boat.

Then the fee raised to $10 per boat for small boats and big boats and today the fee for sailing boats is $1.50

per boat and for big boats it is $3.00 per boat.

“It costs more for special swings and at the rate for one of those big boats to pass through the three bridges it would cost the owner $900”, pointed out Smart.

That is the reason, he said, the bridges are not swung regularly anymore.

Smart lives alone at his concrete bungalow house, located at 2831 Waree Street.

He has been living alone since his common-law wife died in 2001 and his daughter, Tanya Smart, died in October 2002.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Sunday, December 11, 2011

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THE BELIZE TIMES

PUP 11 on the Campaign Trail

Freetown Yaad Meeting November 30 2011

PUP Leader & Freetown Area Representative, Hon. Francis Fonseca

Party Leader Hon. Francis with Mayoral Candidate Karen Bodden and his mother, Mrs. Molly Fonseca Erwin X greets Freetown residents

Dorla Vaughan shares words of inspiration with PUP matriarch, Mrs. Molly Fonseca

Hon. Francis Fonseca flanked by PUP City Council candidates (LtoR): Gary Ayuso, Lennox “Dj Tambran” Young, Erwin X, Peter Lacey, Mayoral Candidate Karen Bodden, Dorla Vaughan, Edward Young, Robert “Bobby” Cadle , Swamy Babani & Alberto Vellos

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Sunday, December 11, 2011

THE BELIZE TIMES

Western News

19 We d po live ya d corrupt n greedy liv ova deh

“Enlightening residents about the good, the bad and the ugly”; in Cayo DO YOU WANT 3 MORE YEARS OF NEGLECT AND CORRUPTION THEN VOTE UDP Honorable John Saldivar, Lame Duck Mayor Simeon Lopez and the circus of UDP councilors have destroyed our once garden city to the point that we are embarrassed and ashamed to show our friends and families where we live. The public transportation, especially local taxis, refuse to travel on certain streets as most of them are in the conditions as the picture above shows, thanks to our “Uncaring Despots Parasites” who instead of improving the lives of the residents are only improving their own lives building mansions and giving jobs to their families and cronies.

John Saldivar never owned a $500,000 mansion before, but in less than three years of being a Minister he has amassed such great wealth.

Voters want to know how you got so much money.

Tell us John, is it true you have only built “John to John’s” restrooms in Belmopan and instead of giving the contracts to the small masons/contractors you gave it to your friend the Abaddi’s H.G.? Tell us John, is it true that the owners of “Efectos Especiales” are privileged to supply vehicles parts, lubricants and parts to GOB after they were reportedly bought from Caribbean Tires at reduced prices then resold to GOB and the Belmopan City Council at exorbitant prices?

Tell us John, isn’t it true that the Abbaddi Brothers got the hundreds of thousand dollars contract to do the landscaping at the Marion Jones Complex? Hon. John, are the Abbaddi Brothers’ construction contractors, or masons, qualified contractors to do landscaping at Marion Jones Stadium? Hon. John are, they your buddies which is why they got all those contracts?

Now Lame Duck Mayor Lopez is it true that the Belmopan City Council is indebted to “Efectos Especiales” to the tune of some $80,000 for tires, lubricants and parts sold to the council at reportedly exorbitant prices?

Lame Duck Mayor Lopez, weren’t you a math teacher and isn’t it wiser and cheaper to buy directly from the importers instead of through a middle man “especially the rich” to save thousands of dollars for the council and the city in return?

Honorable John and Lame Duck Mayor Lopez isn’t it true you are all campaigning utilizing tax payers money to buy votes in Maya Mopan, Salvapan, San Martin, Las Flores and La Riviera? Isn’t it true you are buy-

Visit Us Online at: www.belizetimes.bz

Hon. John’s $500,000.00 mansion; where John utilizes GOB well rig to dig his personal well at tax payer’s expense, while villages and schools are with out water and schools are closed for lack of water.

ing votes by issuing food vouchers to voters which are redeemable at a grocery store on Nim Li Punit Street?

But as the saying goes you can’t buy love, you can’t fool the people all the time, you can’t hide from us for all these years now you feel you can buy us with a few pennies think twice John and Simeon, the people are saying “YA BASTA, ENOUGH IS ENOUGH” we wa tek the money, food and vote them out because all they are doing is returning back to us what they have taken away from us for the past years.

Residents of Belmopan have seen and lived six years under a good administration from 2000 to 2006 that managed our city in a competent manner by a group of concerned and caring city Council under the leadership of Anthony “Tony” Chanona and the PUP. Oh! how we long to see our City return to the hands of the Peoples United Party now under the leadership of Jorge Flores and his caring team of

councilors, so all persons regardless of their affiliation to any organization will received benefits from the management of the City. But for this to happen we must vote on election day for the members of the Peoples United Party.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Dangriga Machinery Up and Running!

By Greg Ovado Shortly after the Dangriga training team completes its “training of trainers’ workshop” in Belize City on the 26th and 27th November, 2011, it became apparent that time is of the essence. With a high possibility of early elections looming in the air, there is a serious urgency to get the Dangriga campaign machinery oiled and ready for battle. On the Tuesday 29th November 2011 the training team met and a decision was made to have the first workshop for all the members involved in the upper management of the campaign. Consequently, on Sun-

day December 4, 2011 approximately 50 members of the PUP gathered at the Dangriga Help Age Building.

The mood was one of eagerness, commitment and dedication to the Peoples United Party. Despite the weather the turnout was commendable. The Audience had a wide cross section of the community and varying degree of political experiences. There were some senior members of the party along with junior but eager to learn members. What was also interested about the participants is that we also saw the involvement of almost all members of the party who ran and

PUP soldiers strategising the victory plan

lost in the conventions. That is a great sign! The Party is United as Ever before.

The workshop started with a prayer followed by the opening remarks given by our standard bearer, Ivan Ramos followed by the welcome done by the Party Chairman Bert Bernard. Thereafter, we proceeded with the presentations. The three main presenters were Gidjet Villafranco, Anthony Ramos and yours truly Gregory Ovado. Some of the topics covered were 1. Conflict Management 2. Election process and ballot rules and 3. Personal Development. The presentations

were well received and the participants get an opportunity to ask questions and clarify issues of concern.

The training team is eager to keep the ball rolling so, with this in mind; another workshop targeting the campaigners is already set for this Sunday 11th November 2011. We want to say a big thank you to all the participants including the Standard Bearer, Mayoral Candidate and all the Councillor Candidates who came out to make the workshop a success. The training is in harmony with objectives of the PUP as stated by the Party Leader, “We will win we must win!”

Participants of PUP training session in Dangriga

Sunday, December 11, 2011

THE BELIZE TIMES

Preparing for

Municipal Management And the Next Revolution: One Belize-Prosperous, United and Free

By Carolyn Trench-Sandiford – Deputy Leader People’s United Party - Belize

B

elize City is my home. It is where I grew up and still live.

Its history, socio-economic, cultural and political energy, people and other inhabitants [including the rats, the crabs, the cato etc.], spatial organization, growth and development continues to intrigue and fascinate me. However, it also concerns me that for the past decade, our policy makers and leaders continue to approach the challenges of the city as if we are still living in the 1970s and 80s and nothing has changed.

Our City is a magnet of hope for many, but it is also a place of considerable despair for others. Yes, there are many successful areas, where families are living in well laid out communities with aesthetically pleasing homes and safe and attractive neighbourhoods, and in most cases, they have good jobs, have their own transport and can afford education and health care. This should be maintained.

Unfortunately, many other areas of the city are either succumbing to urban blight and decay, or emerging as “shanty” or “squatter” communities, where living conditions are deplorable, unemployment is high, health problems are increasing, literacy rates are declining, crime is of epic proportions, educational facilities are bursting at their seams, recreational and other social and basic facilities and services are either non-existent or inadequate, transportation is questionable and overcrowding pervades. This is due to the lack of planning, inefficient and inequitable resource allocation, and unregulated growth.

I have continuously argued that Belize City is growing at an alarming rate without the requisite planning to provide for the needs of population growth and new household formation. That is, properly designed street layout with sidewalks, land designations for housing, schools, parks, sporting and recreational facilities, employment opportunities, libraries, health centers and other basic services and utilities, such as water and electricity to facilitate and sustain successful communities.

Neither has there been any attempt to regulate the redevelopment that is taking place in existing built up areas of the City where old buildings are being torn down, including those of historical significance, to make way for modern multistoried commercial structures, which is transforming neighborhoods and communities from low traffic to high volume traffic. This has implications to congestion, air and noise pollution, safety and security, gentrification and exclusion of low income

families, loss of cultural heritage, and the proliferation of activities that contributes to criminal behavior and poor living conditions.

I also have a fundamental problem with cabinet interference in a municipal matter, because this is why we go to elections to elect our municipal leaders, it is their duty and responsibility to make decisions regarding the good governance of their municipality. The city, as well as the towns, and villages need to engage in development planning, of which land use and zoning plans are but one component, to address historic, contemporary and emerging challenges associated with development, population growth and human needs.

Emphasis should be on preparing a Development Plan for Belize City to enunciate a clear developmental path with defined goals to ensure that the city maintain its prominence as the country’s premier financial, commercial and service center for the country, while facilitating an acceptable quality of life and creating opportunities for all, not some.

A component should be a zoning and land use plan, that demarcates the city into zones with permitted uses, that is residential, commercial [bars, small shops etc.] light industry, mixed uses etc., and the standards to apply, that is, the height of the building, density, building coverage and set back and parking according to uses etc.

Vision is what is needed. Thus, it is up to the People’s United Party to ensure that development planning and land use and zoning regulations feature prominently in our policy position on municipal management. For only if we do so, can the revolution continue….and only so will we be able to create a NEW BELIZE, which will bring to all Belizeans a better life and a just share of the national wealth……

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Reid ing the local market causing sharp declines in sales and jeopardizing an entire industry. Several small farmers and at least one major rice producer are on the verge of closing shop. Additionally, political cronies in the south are allegedly being subsidized and given preference which allows them to undersell the growers in the north. This kinda thing does not happen under the PUP. A few months ago, a similar blunder wreaked havoc in the onion industry. Just Leading up to the 1998 General Elec- about the time that the farmers were about tions, I considered myself politically neu- to harvest their crop, ministry officials imtral; in fact, I was actually closer to the UDP ported several hundred tons of the bulbs than the PUP. Sista B., Dean Barrow’s sis- from Holland which arrived just about the ter and campaign manager, had recruited time of the harvest. The imported stuff me to give basic Math and English lessons was given preference, sold at a lower price to a group of high school drop-outs in her and caused acres upon acres of local onbrother’s constituency. Shortly before ions to rot in the fields and in warehouses. the elections, I was approached by one Local farmers lost a ton of money and are of Remijio Montejo’s street captains who still trying to recoup. Stuff like this does asked my views on a number of issues. I not happen under the PUP. Dissenters of the two political parties later learned that he was sent by Montejo, in whose Collet division I resided, to test have been on a campaign of late trying to whether I was red, blue or open to per- convince the electorate that both political suasion. Armed with my answers to his parties are one and the same. The name PUDP has been coined questions, I was later told and is being tossed that he promptly went back around quite loosely in to the office and wrote my an effort to indent the name in the “definitely idea on the psyche of the The PUP held red” category.

I tell this story to show office for the bet- voters. It is obviously the brain child of a few who the basic difference beter part of four have been rejected by tween the two parties. decades, from both sides and are now Upon winning the elections taken up with the idea of after they were finally called 1950 until 1984. starting their own political in ‘98, the PUP instead of Since Indepenparty. In name at least, victimizing, decided to ofdence, they are Belize is a democracy and fer me a job. I was at the I believe that anyone or still the only time, doing a part-time group who wants to start work in the media. There party to have a political party should are those who suggest that won consecutive have the right. Any who the job offer was simply to terms in office. wishes to do so howkeep me quiet but be that ever, must bring more to as it may, I was gainfully The UDP are in the table than just “sour employed and immersed their third stint grapes”. myself in the full challenges and each time, The suggestion that of the task at hand. For the they have been both political parties are next seven years, I was the the same is ludicrous and face and voice of the Belize kicked to the baseless. The People’s Police Department. curb because of United Party has a long In 2008, after ten full the same selfand proud tradition of years in the wilderness, providing non partisan the UDP finally went back ish, vindictive service to the people of into office. One of the policies. This Belize. The United Demofirst orders of the day was time, you can cratic Party on the other to fire myself and a numhand, is notorious for its add rampant ber of other hard working policies of victimization public servants. Our only corruption and and selective governance. sin was that it was felt that unbridled greed Oh they talk a good talk we voted PUP. As Minister to their long list but at the end of the day, of Works, Boots Martinez, the bitter taste of this pudimmediately fired four hunof sins.” ding is in the eating. dred workers in PG while Leading up to this Patrick Faber proceeded to clean house at Education. Remember year’s September Celebration, Love FM Hirian Goode whose husband, decorated hosted an eye-opening Prime Minister’s army veteran Charles Goode, died trying forum. At the forum, which brought toto get her back her job? These are not the gether former prime ministers Manuel kind of stories that you hear about under Esquivel, Said Musa and present Prime Minister Dean Barrow, Belizeans got a the PUP. At the moment, there is a disturbing first -hand admittance of the “spoils sysscandal being exposed involving the Minis- tem”. That revelation, might in fact, sum up try of Agriculture and the Belize Marketing succinctly the fundamental difference beBoard. Despite overflowing silos of locally tween Belize’s two major political parties.

The PUP held office for the betproduced rice, those clowns in that ministry are reportedly importing rice and flood- ter part of four decades, from 1950 until

1984. Since Independence, they are still the only party to have won consecutive terms in office. The UDP are in their third stint and each time, they have been kicked to the curb because of the same selfish, vindictive policies. This time, you can add rampant corruption and unbridled greed to their long list of sins.

In his revealing comments at the forum, Dean Barrow remarked that it was normal for a party who was so long in the cold to consider that it was their time at the trough. Apart from rewarding select party favorites, the UDP has continued its practice of punishing any who they believe to be remotely connected to the “Blue”.

Scholarships, housing grants and whatever goods and services are available are dispensed on a party first basis. Even with disaster aid, cronies and flag waivers are given priority while all others languish at the tail of the line. This is not the way it is done under the PUP.

Sunday, December 11, 2011 I remember many party faithful being upset at Ministers and Heads of Departments during the past administration.

Many who were avowed UDP’s were left in place and had equal access to government aid and service. It might in the end have been the undoing of the party as many of those were up front and center in protest and sharing of critical and confidential information.

I certainly hope that the PUP do not change however, and maintain their “big tent” approach. After all, we are all Belizeans and have a right to vote how we wish and support who we wish; there is room under the tent for all Belizeans.

Let us not copy the victimizing and callous witch-hunting ways of this heartless crowd now in office. Belize must be for all Belizeans. The two political parties are definitely not the same. “PUP hires, UDP fires”. Send comments to gmikereid@hotmail.com

Sunday, December 11, 2011

No

Love for

Dangrigans Dangriga Town, December 6, 2011 Dangrigans continue to be showered with the venom and disrespect from the UDP. If one was to analyze the history of the UDP’s performance whilst in Government, that individual is surely to come to the grim reality that all UDP Governments both National and Municipal have brought only failure, pain and suffering to the citizens of Dangriga. They will also confirm that the only ones who have benefited from the UDPs are the families and cronies of those who are elected to ensure the equitable distribution of our municipal and national wealth.

This situation is also very blatant in Dangriga so much so that this week we saw on the news how much the UDP love our Dangrigans, specifically one their very own Mr. John Castillo.

Mr. John Castillo as we understand is a prominent member of the UDP who is also a member of the present Dangriga UDP Constituent Executive. Castillo seemingly was on his way to benefit from being a stalwart and stellar UDP by being granted use of a portion of the business within the newly renovated bus terminal.

However, because he reportedly exercised his constitutional right to support the losing candidate in the Stann Creek West Constituent Convention, Melvin “Flipping” Hulse saw this exercise of freedom as a betrayal and disloyalty to him. So our fellow Dangrigan must pay, the UDP way, for his betrayal. How dare you, John?

Considering that this is the modus operandi of the UDP, one would then have to ask: What have the Dangrigans done to the UDPs so as deserve the punishment and venom that is now showered on us?

It must also be noted that Cayo and not Dangriga, the Culture Capital, stands to get a new Cultural Center.

Dangriga is also not included in the Municipal Development Project. The only time that Dangriga was visited by the Prime Minister was when he reportedly came to chastise Turo the failed representative, the Mayor and his Councilors, the Executive and other prominent UDPs for not getting it together in Dangriga. The Prime Minister seems to scorn our Garifuna Settlement Day history so much he has never bothered to visit us, because he is too pious to celebrate with us commoners. None of our streets are paved, no drain built and no major infrastructural development except a sub-standard bridge during the almost six years rein of the UDP in municipal government and four years in National Government.

Dangrigans knowing this fact about the UDP are ready to embrace and the caring and vibrant leadership of the PUP Municipal and National Government and give the UDPs their just reward. IT IS ALL VERY CLEAR THAT THE UDP HAVE NO LOVE FOR DANGRIGA. WE ARE TIRE OF EMPTY PROMISES AND THE CONTINUED DISRESPECT.

THE BELIZE TIMES

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THE BELIZE TIMES

In my perspective…

Cancer does not discriminate, receiving good treatment does!

By Rayford Young As a youngster growing up in Corozal town many years ago I remember an incident that has stuck with me to this day. I was going to show another student how tough I was and was going to beat him up in front of all the kids that had gathered to watch this live event. Even though I had not fought anyone before I figured the best way to intimidate this guy was to talk big and loud. What I did not know is that an older gentleman was watching all this unfold and he was a good friend of the family. So while using curse words, this gentleman intervened and gave me a scolding in front of all the students standing around. He also went on to say that he was going to tell my father when he saw him and sure enough he did and I got a whipping. That’s the way things were back then – strict parents who instilled morals in their kids. Today those methods would be considered harsh and inappropriate today, but I do think it made for a moral and respectable society.

In those days our leaders were considered moral and respectable individuals. Serving your Country was seen as a respectable position to hold. The community looked up to our leaders. But today, many of our elected officials are despised, not trusted and considered crooks and thieves, in it for themselves, their families and friends. Where did we go wrong?

I remember the old Radio Belize daily newscast at 12:30pm and when a murder was announced the whole country would mourn. It was such a rare thing that someone was murdered. Today we don’t even blink when another murder is committed. It has become just another day at the park. Our children are now being raped and molested and it’s no big deal. How did we get here?

Well, since Independence 30 years ago, time has brought some of the most corrupt men, a government that is for the few and the privileged, jobs that pay inadequate salaries, leaders with no vision for the country and who enrich themselves and their cronies. This is in part how we got here.

This past weekend I had some time on my hands and decided to read the newspaper. I was shocked at the headlines I read. You would think this was a big city like Los Angeles or New York or London; not a tiny country with a population of about 350,000 people. We had every headline you could imagine - murder, corruption, robbery, rapes - even a man having sex with a bull. Take a look below and see what has happened to our country. The headlines will blow your mind.

Barrow Admits Failure Friday, December 2, 2011 19:42 Dean Barrow has no answers to rescuing the economy people have this perception that we are incompetent in

Government, and 9 times out of 10 they are correct.” Prime Minister Dean Barrow, Old Belize meeting with private sector...

OUTLOOK NEGATIVE Friday, November 25, 2011 18:53 “Dean Barrow has no answers to rescuing the economy” S&P downgrades Belize’s ratings.

Ex-Cop found guilty of having two wives Ex-police constable Jaime Peña, 36, charged with bigamy, was found guilty of the charge today in the court of Justice Herbert Lord.

Rocked by Scandals, Perdomo Quits Friday, October 28, 2011 14:43 Perdomo’s time is out. Belize City, October 26, 2011 Embattled politician, Carlos Perdomo, has thrown in the towel and will not contest the upcoming general elections.

Fortis challenges BEL Nationalisation Friday, October 28, 2011 14:49 Belize City, October 25, 2011 Attorneys for Fortis Inc. have filed for a constitutional challenge against the “nationalisation” of the electricity company, Belize Electricity Limited. The request to the Court was entered on Friday, October 21st, which is exactly three months after the Barrow Administration seized the company.

Barrow will ram through 9th Amendment Thursday, October 20, 2011 19:01 Belize City, October 19, 2011 On Friday, October 21st, a sitting of the House of Representatives will be held in Belmopan in which the Barrow Administration will pass the widely opposed and highlycontroversial 9th Constitution Amendment Bill.

NTUCB fires Paul Perriott Thursday, October 20, 2011 19:01 Belize City, October 19, 2011 In February of this year, Paul Perriott resigned from Belize Telemedia Limited after his relationship with the Government-owned company deteriorated Businessman murdered during armed robbery Friday, October 14, 2011 15:24 Wednesday, October 12, 2011 For the second consecutive week, a businessman was murdered at his place of work, reportedly at the hands of street gangsters.

CAYO MAN ACCUSED OF INTERCOURSE WITH A BULL Friday, October 14, 2011 15:06 BELIZE CITY, Wednesday, October 12th, 2011 By Alton Humes - We’ve heard of all sorts of depraved and nasty acts of sexual assaults against young children and teenagers, but one man is behind bars for allegedly unleashing against an animal.

Cayo taxi driver murdered Friday, December 2, 2011 19:49 Wednesday, November 30, 2011 Yet another family in the Cayo District is mourning the loss of their loved one, a breadwinner, after he became the latest murder victim. Domiciano Quixchan, 45, a taxi driver who lives in Bullet Tree Village.

The Record Doesn’t Lie – Port Loyola is a Living Hell with Boots Friday, November 18, 2011 15:58 Belize City, November 15, 2011 There is a very interesting situation in the Port

Sunday, December 11, 2011

REALITY CHECK! Day in and day out, we cry and nobody’s listening

By Carla Bradley Every day we hear about people losing their jobs, people losing loved ones and even some losing their minds trying to figure out how to make ends meet for their family. This government has ignored these cries and has focused only on their families, close friends and cronies.

Walking through the streets of Port Loyola along with other youths, we were left in awe, as we saw how our brothers and sisters lived in this part of the city. Many kids are out of school, and yet we hear the minister of education boasting that he is doing wonders in this ministry. If this is so, why is it that there are families, single mothers who cannot afford to send their children to school to receive an education? The streets are in deplorable conditions, resembling craters caused by great comets from outer space. A child jumping through these puddles filled with germs as it has become a custom for them, a way of playing and trying to make the best of the situation leaves you to wonder. Doors are kept locked, as the area is known for violence and high crime; it has become a part of everyday life for our people in the Port Loyola area. On Freedom Street, garbage is scattered to the knees in an empty lot, where is City Council? Why has this even been allowed, diseases waiting to explode, as rotted animals, waste and food materials attract flies and maggots to name a few.

Walking through this area during the hours of school, and seeing a child at every corner I turn, has left me in sadness. What are these children doing out of school? Their future can be so much better if their parents were able to afford to send them to school.

Homes that are barely standing up, with families of 5 or more, leaves to

Loyola Division. It is the most neglected division in the entire city but it has the second largest number of voters. …and this is just the first few pages of the newspaper! What a sad situation we face. Once a peaceful respectable country, we are now just another society with deteriorating morals and headed downhill. How can we change this? It starts with the family. We have to instill morals in our children. Our kids need to know right from wrong. Our leaders need to be men of dignity and respect. Stop hording the coffers for your own personal wealth. Represent the people that sent you there. Our religious leaders need to speak out more and show some backbone. Our media needs to be a lot tougher on our politi-

wonder how can a Minister let this happen, and then have the audacity to say he takes care of his people? I have no idea in which country he is living in, or what area he feels he is doing wonders for but I can certainly tell you that the people in Jane Usher area of Port Loyola, and in many other areas of this constituency can tell him, that he is simply “DELUSIONAL!” These people need to be treated as they should, just as how he takes care of his loved ones.

In my opinion when you become, or when you are elected to be an area representative, people trust that you will do good for them. They trust that you will improve their communities, their way of life, create more jobs, and build better homes for them and their children. How can you sell people dreams, as Hon. Anthony “Boots” Martinez did and then leave them out in the cold?! It is not about only giving money when elections or a convention is near; it is about being there for the people who put you there when they need you. The people of Port Loyola have been severely neglected by their current representative who boasts of being a tree who wears boots and bears fruits. Port Loyola is in dire need of attention in every aspect; the youths need to be shown that this does not have to be life they live.

The youths can do so much better, if they come together as one, and show willingness to want to do better, and the only way to achieve this is to work with them.

Race, age, background does not matter, it is the drive and willingness to do better that does!

Boots, I think it is time for you to get the BOOT, because in my opinion, you should be ashamed to think that you are a tree bearing fruit for the people of Port Loyola, as from what I seen, you have done nothing to help the people you keep calling “your people.”

cians. The country needs jobs, well-paying jobs. No one can live off $150.00BZ a week. That’s a tank of gas. And finally stop voting the same crooks and thieves back into office. You got to think and do your own investigation and decide who will serve you the best. The old guard/ politicians that have been around for decades will not change. All they know is the system that has been in place for all this time. Look to the younger men that are coming up on the horizon. They know things have gone horribly wrong and are looking for change. That’s our only hope.

Rayford Young is a BelizeanAmerican, who currently lives in Michigan, U.S.A. Send comments to rayfordyoung@comcast.net

Sunday, December 11, 2011

25

THE BELIZE TIMES

Write to us at: editortimes@yahoo.com

Tired a see di blood a spill

By Lucia Moguel

I

t is astonishing how the most subtle of things, the smallest of them all, can prove to hold many differences. This is the case of our very own Belize.

I live in Orange Walk Town; it is quite a peaceful place to live. We have all our needs, wants and services we can desire. We have night clubs where our people spend numerous nights living the good life and we also have a hospital in which our people spend certain days stranded in bed due to illness.

We have supermarkets, gas stations, hotels, restaurants, schools and even ice-cream parlors for our children to spend time safely. Yes indeed, we have everything we need and want. Nonetheless, the urban, if we can refer to this town as such, comes along with metropolitan concerns. Although our town is calm and nothing exuberant occurs often, we have our fair share of problems. Over the years we have seen an increase in traffic which has lead to the deterioration of our streets. Yes, now all that you can see are potholes as big as craters on the moon’s face; you should see what happens after it rains. Since we have an increase in the amount of cars per capita, we should also have an increase in sidewalks.

Many times have I seen cars almost caressing children on their way to school and street vendors occupying the limited sidewalks we posses. In addition, we are the luckiest people; unlike others, we have the good fortune of being able to litter where ever we please. We also own the most alluring park. It is so alluring that the many little old men of the booze and the broken benches capture the attention of tourists.

Not too long ago I found myself 10 minutes away from home in the beautiful village of San Jose Palmar. I was mesmerized by the view. The landscape is so clean as if it was taken out of a book. It reminds me quite much of The Shire from J.R.R Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings. The air emanates an aroma of freshness and the breeze blows gently caressing your cheeks. The skies are clear and as blue as topazes decorated by fluffy cotton clouds as white as a sheep’s fleece. The little houses were modestly built, yet they looked warm, welcoming and cozy. I truly was in another world, even though I was just 10 minutes away from home. It is astonishing how different the scene is considering the proximity of Orange Walk Town and San Jose Palmar. Everything is so serene, so simple, so still…

On the contrary, we cannot forget that not everything can be cherry pie. It is true that the village life is breath taking, but it is sad to observe that their streets are not paved. Civilians walk on muddy ground; once again, lack of sidewalks. I also noticed a tiny dilapidated park sitting in the middle of the village. It was depressing to know that children’s recreational sites are found in such devastating conditions. I saw broken seesaws, broken swings, broken cement and broken everything. Such jewel cannot have blemish upon it; such a magical place should be preserved.

I recall a time in which I was in high school, children would make fun of those that came from these magical lands. They come from a land much chaste; there is much that we can learn from their uplifting lifestyle. I believe that they deserve as much respect as any of us do. This is why we all deserve to have decent playgrounds, usable sidewalks free of vendors and paved streets to feel civilized. We live on earth not on the moon. As I ponder about it now, we are not so different after all. (Send comments to luciamoguel@gmail.com)

POEM Tired a see di blood a spill

By Erwin X Tired a see di blood a spill Tired fi see ghetto youth get kill Tired ah di war fi di dutty dollar bill Tired ah see youth man di lamp up and chill Without ambition, motivation and the will To get an education and learn a skill To rise outta di ghetto to construct and build Tired a si blood in the streets run like pool Tired a see ghetto youth live life as a fool Without an education and power of school To rise up in this earth to overcome and rule While the leaders dem ride the youth like mule Being dumb and dead youth man is not cool Tired ah see all the violence and war Tired ah see my brothers bleeding on the tar Without the help of our leaders who don’t care Conscious my brother you are greater than a star You are the original man read and know who you are When will our youth unite and get their share My people you are chosen as the righteous Open your eyes and live conscious Remember Allah (God) is watching us Put done the bloodshed, the fight and fuss We are killing ourselves which is hurting us Give up the war, ashes and the dust to dust To Live in Unity as a people is a must Don’t answer back, stop grumble Open your heart brother humble To live righteously you are able You are blessed with life from the cradle Why are you killing your brother like Cain kill able Living the lies of Babylon’s tales and fable Trapped in the tricks you see on TV and Cable Brother get up and stop being lazy and idle Give up Satan’s name and his label Refuse the violence and the evil Protect the life of yourself and your people

26

THE BELIZE TIMES

Unibam,

Fourth In Line I remember hearing one person say that one of the devil’s tricks when dealing with good people who will not get into devious sins, is to encourage them to do good things which are ‘good’ but not priority.

So dad tells you to wash the car, but here comes your friend and suggests instead for you to pick up the trash in the yard. Now the car is left as dirty as it was when you were instructed to wash it. What will your dad think about that?

Since one of the top topics on our agenda today as a country is the ‘unibam’ intents I was encouraged by a friend to write again on the topic. He asked me what opinion I had regarding this important issue, and although I hesitated to answer here goes.

I began my response to him the same way as this article. Many times Christians get distracted into running after things that are important while burning out their energy and leaving none for those that have been dictated by the creator.

I must first establish that there are two laws because there are two countries. There is the kingdom of God and there is the Kingdom of this world. Therefore there are two types of citizens; those who have passports for their country and those who have both passports for their country and passport for the kingdom of God! The laws in the Kingdom do not change, so any attempt to change laws to satisfy human needs or desires is a quick sign of one functioning outside of the kingdom. Yes you can have homosexuals, yes you can have sex without marriage, yes, yes, yes, but in a kingdom this is against the law and one is putting oneself in danger of not entering the kingdom.

What am I saying? Well if you are a kingdom citizen your only choice, if you desire to remain a citizen, is to obey kingdom laws. If you are not then you are only required to obey the laws of the land you live in with the option to agitate for change if those laws don’t suit you! In any country once you obey the laws you are free to move around and do as you please or as you need while disobedience to the laws results in imprisonment. In the kingdom of God this is no different.

So you ask what is the Kingdom’s perspective on homosexuality?

In (Genesis 19:5) we find a whole country being burnt down and in fact this is one of the places where the word sodomy originated. There are others such as (Leviticus 18:22) and checking further into the New Testament you will find it being called an un-natural act!

I cannot give you only my opinion as that is not as strong as bringing the law and hence I refer you to these scriptures!

As it relates to the church fighting against the attempt to pass this into law I do agree but have one main concern! As mentioned at the beginning the devil loves it when he can distract believers from doing what they are called to do into doing what is good.

I would love to see this type of effort being put into winning souls into the kingdom of God. Winning the case against this law, for believers, is as the same as a whack to the leaves of evil rather than a good whack at its root. Although fighting for this cause is good, our efforts to win souls compared to our efforts in activities such as this should be incomparable!

There are many sins causing more destruction to mankind that require equal or more effort to make unlawful. For example, alcohol abuse is one of the major murderers in our country and is the cause of many broken and terrorized homes. Men behaving like animals and being promiscuous and making children all over the place is another major issue destroying the lives of our human race! These two require as much or even more attention than ‘UNIBAM’.

Just to clarify please do not get me wrong, as I agree especially scripturally that homosexuality is wrong, and to have it legalized is not a good idea. I also have no problem with fighting against the intent of passing it, but I am merely saying that I believe we need to be putting four times that same effort and resources into what is really important and that is “drawing souls from darkness into light”!

Until next week, God Bless!!

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Gone from us, but his life’s work continues “to promote the peaceful development of Belize and its people” – the mission of the George Price Centre for Peace and Development in Belmopan.

Available after November 29, for all to have – beautiful, personalized, memorial cups with the image of the Father of the Nation!

Own one for only $30. All proceeds from sales go to further the work of the George Price Centre.

His legacy must not die, but be engraved in the hearts of all true Belizeans as we forward to continue the peaceful, constructive Belizean revolution.

The special item can be obtained at the George Price Centre for Peace and Development in Belmopan

Sunday, December 11, 2011

THE BELIZE TIMES

The Gift That Keeps Giving The holidays can be the most difficult time for sticking to a budget. Even with the economy still struggling, total spending in the US was up to 16% from last year, according to a survey by the National Retail Federation.

As Belizeans, we know that holiday indulgence is nearly impossible to avoid, but financial peace and understanding may be the best gift you can give to others, and yourself. Here are a few ideas for helping spread financial lessons this holiday season.

• Give a budget. The holidays offer a perfect opportunity for teaching children about money. With your child,

Another

storm brewing in Bus Industry December 6, 2011

By Carla Bradley The Transport Industry has seen better days than the days under Hon. Melvin “Flippin” Hulse, as innocent citizens have been affected by the incompetence of this minister.

It is alleged that another storm is brewing in the bus industry as more bus operators will either be left in the cold or will seriously be impacted by recent decisions to issue new road permits. According to reliable sources, current permits have expired and bus operators now await response to their applications, but not surprisingly the Transport Department is delaying the process. It is rumored that a major decision has taken place to award a road permit to an international bus company which recently began testing routes in Belize. This will undoubtedly impact bus operators who have been in business for many years. Additionally, new operators, who have strong ties to certain ministers, will receive permits causing long-standing operators to lose runs.

A couple months ago, members of the Belize Bus Association blocked the highways to fight for their livelihood, as they were being bullied by the Minister of Transport, Hon. Melvin Hulse. Drivers used their busses as walls across the highways and burnt tires across different portions of both the Western and Northern highways to get the Government to listen to their cry. Some were even arrested for standing up for their livelihoods. The PM intervened, which is becoming a common practice in every ministry under the UDP, and only offered temporary relief. Now these owners will soon face new dilemmas and the crisis is bound to take course all over again. When will the flippin madness end?

set a budget—maybe ten to fifteen dollars—to spend on gifts for everyone.

Setting a limit helps children carefully think through how much to spend on each person on their gift recipient list, and elucidates the fact that you cannot always buy everyone a gift. This simple exercise incorporates the basic concepts of prioritizing and budgeting.

• Give back. Consider making a donation to a charity in the name of a friend or loved one. Some organizations let you make the donation, and they can pick the charity. This is anoth-

er good way to incorporate a life lesson, giving back, into the holidays.

• Give saving. Saving is something that takes time to learn, and often longer to appreciate. Savings bonds make great gifts for teaching that important lesson or buy shares in a profitable company in their name—for teens and young adults this is a great way to teach investing and monitoring investments. For younger children, look for gifts that make saving fun, from the basic piggy bank to financial games,

27 books and toys.

• Give yourself a break. Remember, the holidays are not all about spending. If your budget is particularly tight, be up front with family and friends about your budget this year, and focus on spending time together instead Do you have tips for a financially fit holiday season? Share them at editortimes@yahoo.com! Together we can all have a financially happy holiday season! Feliz Navidad!

28

THE BELIZE TIMES

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Sunday, December 11, 2011

THE BELIZE TIMES

THINK ABOUT IT CRASHED PLANE HAD MONEY The plane that crashed last week

by Camalote, killing the two pilots, has caused another investigation.

The Police who first arrived on the scene have been questioned about monies that the plane brought to Belize. Some plane bring cocaine, others bring the money to pay those who are to move the drugs from Belize to Mexico.

The plane that crashed landed apparently was bringing the money.

STAND UP FOR FREEDOM The new Chief Justice has put a stop to a procedure that was unhealthy for the freedom of our people.

It used to take almost a month before a person could have an application for bail heard in the Supreme Court.

Now, thanks to the intervention of the new Chief Justice, applications are given the priority that they deserve.

A law passed last year requires that no application is to be heard before ten working days. This is an unjust law and it tramples on the liberty of the citizen. A person’s liberty is questioned by the constitution and in any and every democracy liberty is treated as a serious matter.

So far, the law has not been challenged. But a bureaucratic procedure was causing greater infringement on the liberty of Belizeans. The staff at the Supreme Court office was not processing bail applications with any sense of urgency, causing additional delays for three or four more weeks.

The new Chief Justice has put a stop to these delays and bail applications are now being processed swiftly.

On behalf of the voiceless and the down-trodden who would have been kept in jail unnecessarily – eternal gratitude is due to the CJ. CRISPIN JEFFRIES Commissioner of Police Crispin Jeffries has formally retired. Crispin reached retirement age about two or three years ago, but the government, presiding over a worsening crime situation felt it had no alternative than to rehire him.

Crispin rose through the ranks of the Police Department. As a teenager he was a member of the Methodist Boys Brigade under the strict discipline of Harrison Barnett.

Crispin started his career as a band member of the Police Marching Band. It was a sign of how little support the present government gives to the Police that as Commission Crispin could not get funding for a Police Band. Neither could he get the additional vehicles, equipment and increase in CIB and anti crime personnel so badly needed.

As a top cop and ultimately as the Commissioner Crispin gave his all to his job. He pushed for improvements in his various formations and for more training for his officers. The arrival of the UDP as government four years ago caused major upheavals in the Police Department.

Widespread victimization resulted in the unprecedented transfer of experienced officers. In the case of the all-important CIB – Crimes Investigation Branch, the government removed 95 percent of the seasoned officers from Belize City. The then head of CIB was singled out for public humiliation. Having been transferred to an obscure desk job, only his application to the Supreme Court saved him from dismissal. On his own initiative and with no financial help from government that person is now studying law

at the University of the West Indies. A living testimony to how this government treats talented Belizeans.

Which brings up another important issue. The new commissioner will be a foreigner recruited from abroad. In an organization of over one thousand members – the government cannot find one single person to be commissioner. Having been in office four years, the government has not sent a single Belizean to be trained to become the new commissioner.

In Jamaica, a few foreigners are recruited from Scotland Yard to assist but none dare be appointed Commissioner in that nationalistic country. They would be met with hostility and non-cooperation. They couldn’t last more than a month on the job.

David Henderson recently promoted Assistant Compol will hold over as Compol until the foreigner arrives, as early as two months hence. What an insult to us all.

SAIDA MCKENZIE – CORPORAL Another noteworthy promotion is Saida McKenzie of CIB, the Crimes Investigation Branch. Miss McKenzie has been promoted the position of Corporal of Police.

Saida is a quiet and unassuming person. But she loves her job and is dedicated to what she does. It is encouraging to see young bright Police Officers being recognized in this way. No doubt she studied for the Police examinations and must feel that the hard work has now paid off.

Saida is the daughter of local Bruce Lee and pioneering karate instructor – Frank McKenzie and attorney at law Margaret McKenzie. Congrats.

YOUR HEALTH You cannot go wrong with doing some exercise on a regular basis.

If it is only a brisk walk two or three times for the week. Make sure you get a sweet and have the heart get a good pumping.

You can do touch toes, skipping, push-up and squats. Also drink plenty of water and make an effort to eat fruits and vegetables. Your health is your greatest asset. Take good care of it.

GOD’S GREAT SUN The mighty sun that God has given us does so many things for our planet and for us humans. It gives us light, keeps us warm, evaporates water so we get rain, and makes an otherwise ugly moon look pretty and bright.

Our ancestors used to worship the sun.

The sun gives energy too. Through a single technology we can get energy as well. They call it solar panels. It can give energy for our homes and offices.

The technology is cheap. In the USA you can purchase the solar panels and battery to connect to your electronic system. It is not expensive.

Why the Belize government is not promoting solar energy for Belizeans is just another example of how leaderless and visionless they.

FORECLOSURES Foreclosure is a word like disaster, dread, distressful. It sounds poisonous.

The newspapers continue to publish the long list of homes which are being sold by the various banking institutions. Belizeans who originally satisfied the banks, DFC, Social Security and Credit Unions that they can pay their

loans are losing their homes because as the hard times bite deeper, they cannot meet the payment.

No government should sit back and allow Belizeans in these record numbers to be losing their homes. We are talking about struggling public officers and those in the middle class.

DFC and Social Security need to remove or reduce the interest payments at least.

RICE-WASH You must have heard of hog-wash.

One of the meanings is rubbish, worthless material, stuff thrown to hogs, nonsense.

There was recently a big scandal when the government-controlled Marketing Board imported a large quantity of onions, even though our farmers had more than enough onions in their field.

The imported onion flooded the market and the Belizean onion rotted. The government said and did nothing.

Now a rice scam is underway. Sale of Belizean rice is down by 30 percent.

Government is facilitating the importation of Uruguayan rice when there is enough locally-produced rice.

Early next year are elections. The government wants to be seen to be doing something. Months after the Uruguayan rice has been hurting the sale of Belizean rice this is what the government has come up with. The Deputy Prime Minister held a meeting last Thursday 1st December and on Monday the defunct Agriculture Ministry sent out a Press Release. Yes a press release. “A commitment was made from the Minister and the farmers to work together and find solutions that will enable the industry to remain

29 sustainable and keep our self-suffering rice production.”

Wow! Talk as they say sure is cheap, or put another way. “Talking loud and saying nothing”, by James Brown. Or to coin a word for rubbish, Rice-Wash.

CHURCH WILL HEAL CANCER Love FM television showed the special church service held for “First lady” Kim Simplis Barrow who is battling cancer. Our wishes and prayers are with her.

The service was held at Divine Mercy Church. Efforts to learn the name of the Priest presiding and whether he is Roman Catholic have not been successful. It is possible he may be a visiting Priest from another denomination because the Priest was travelling into dangerous waters.

First he told a story which sounded as if he was claiming that he restored life to a woman shortly after she died and her body had already turned cold.

Then, in the name of Jesus he ordered the cancer in Mrs. Barrow to dry up and die. We wish that such will happen. But we need to be circumspect.

Priests cannot heal cancer or any other ailment. Neither should they be using the name of Jesus to create false hopes or send false messages.

This is a serious matter. This writer means no disrespect to the clergy or the church. But no clergy and no church can cure cancer. No Priest can instruct cancer to wither and dry up.

And to use the mighty name of Jesus to create such impression is not healing for the faith. Leave such healing to charlatans and hustlers of which there be many in this wicked world.

30 John Saldivar & GOB Put Our Children in Harm’s Way Continued from page 2 I have a son attending high school here in Belize City and currently he is participating in the Belize City High School Basketball Competition. Now, I’m not a basketball fan but as a parent who is always supportive of my children, I decided to attend one of his games. I became angry as I walked into the City Centre yard and looked at the terrible condition of the building. I swear it looked like one big crack house. And just when I thought the outside of the building was dilapidated, it was nothing compared to what I witnessed on the inside – bleachers falling apart, ruined walls, broken down bathrooms and a leaky roof.

Minutes into the basketball game, the rains started to pour causing the basketball court to become wet and dangerously slippery. What embarrassment it was to see the referees either drying the basketball every time it got wet or replacing it repeatedly.

There were at least three times I held my breath when I saw my son fall on the court because of the slippery floor.

I became extremely angry that night as I kept asking myself: How could John Saldivar and the Government publicly condemn the use of the City Centre yet allow the basketball competition to be played there? As parents, we are very concerned about the safety of our children as they face the risk of serious injury. If our children should break a limb, will John Saldivar and the Government cover their medical expenses?

For crying out loud, the National Sports Council occupies the lower flat of the building. How could that body just turn a blind eye?

We, the parents, demand that there be an immediate suspension or cancellation of the high school basketball competition unless a suitable and safe alternative facility is identified. We understand that the National Secondary School Sports Association (NSSSA) had approached Mr. Henry Young about the possible use of the Bird’s Isle Basketball Court as an alternative venue. The ever greedy Young, however, wants to charge the Association an “arm and a leg”.

John Saldivar and the Government of Belize are putting our children in harm’s way and couldn’t care less about their safety. We would like to do some condemning of our own and so we hereby condemn the recklessness and cold-heartedness of the Minister of Sports and his Government – SHAME on YOU!!

Signed Belize City parent

THE BELIZE TIMES

No Progress in Disaster Preparedness Management Continued from page 2 ters. The Government’s constant and bleating claims were that most shelters, especially those in the City, would withstand Category 5-strength winds. So the ‘dumb question’ is: why haven’t shelters been properly tested to see if they could withstand say, I don’t know…. rain?!!! Yeah, note to self on shelters: I’ll never go back to one as long as standards aren’t being tested…. at least twice before the season, three times during the season and twice more at season’s end. If my above rule of thumb isn’t suitable, make one up at least. But please, do not behave like the degenerate incompetents you actually are.

Belizeans, all of this is merely food for thought, so don’t just take my word…. Rise up, and demand answers from your area representatives (if they can be found). Or better yet, form committees to demand funds to improve shelters in your area. Either way, we can’t continue to play the ‘bob-and-weave’ game much longer, or we’ll be in for yet another scary, and unnecessarily risky, hurricane season in 2012.

Signed.

Concerned young Belizean

Poor people tax for riding bus Continued from page 2 the UDP show. The idea of the new tax must come from Joe too.

This new tax is going to be put on poor people who are using the regular bus to come into the city from the villages. He is just greedy, unrealistic and facey. He said that because there are twenty thousand people who travel into the city, he and the UDP want to raise the cost of living on people who flee the stifling city. First the UDP City Council under his legal advice moved the cemetery outside of Belize City into the village and now they want to tax us just because we do not live in the city?

Now seriously why should we have to pay to go into Belize City?

Why should we have to pay a tax just so that we can be robbed, or murdered? Why should we pay a tax to come mash up our cars on the grater shaped streets in the dirty filth that the same UDP has turned Belize City into.

We already have to pay high gas price prices, which is another tax. This UDP raised the taxes on dead people now they want to tax us to death just because we are poor and live outside of Belize City.

Can they really do that? Please save us, please!!

Signed, Khlara Mangar (no fraid to put my name, Sir, because this is lone fool) Hattieville Resident

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Because she is a Barrow?

Belize City, December 7, 2011 Cheryl Krusen was appointed Solicitor General of Belize two months ago.

Shortly after her appointment, Hubert Elrington, during on a television show, asked: “where did she come from?” That question has still not been answered.

Most Belizeans do not know Cheryl Krusen. She is from Jamaica but she has a Belize connection. She was once married to Dylan Barrow and lived in Belize many years ago. She was a teacher and a magistrate and a mother and a wife.

She did not last long in the classroom.

Her time on the bench was a model of mediocrity. The marriage ended and she left the Jewel. When she departed from Belize, no one seemed to have missed her at all.

Rumors have it that she held a middle management post in the Commonwealth Secretariat in London. She also had a short and unremarkable stint as legal counsel at the CARICOM Secretariat. Again she distinguished herself by being consistent – mediocre. When she announced that she was leaving, no effort was made by the Secretary General to get her to change her mind. Other legal counsel at CARICOM who preceded her include Duke Pollard a former judge of the CCJ, Dr. Kenny Anthony renowned law professor and former prime minister, and Dr. Winston Anderson law professor and now a CCJ Judge. She was nothing

Cheryl Krusen

like those luminaries.

Since her return to Belize, Cheryl Krusen was in the vanguard of Barrow’s Ninth Amendment crusade, insisting that Belizeans swallow wholesale her interpretations of our Constitution and berating other Attorneys for “not telling the truth”. She has been positioned as the legal face of the Barrow administration whose expertise should be trusted by all in our nation because of her 30 years of legal practice and experience. In tragicomic fact, new

Continued on page 31

Belizeans for Justice

Holds 2nd Annual Christmas Party for Underprivileged Children Belize City, December 5, 2011 It was all smiles and warm cheers on the faces and in the hearts of some 250 underprivileged Belizean children as they attended the “2nd Annual Belizeans for Justice Christmas Party for Underprivileged Children” on Saturday, December 3, 2011. Accompanied by their parents/ guardians, the children, mostly from Southside Belize City, dashed over to the popularly known “Red House Yard” where they were treated to a fun-filled program from 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

The event got underway with the children paying reverence to GOD as one of their peers, seven-year old Nikita led, them in prayer. Following, the children participated in balloon games, dance competitions and picture taking with Santa Claus. The day ended with each child receiving a party bag and a Christmas present from Santa, arguably the part of the day every child was looking forward to. Each child also received a plate of food and a fruit juice.

In speaking of the event, Yolanda

Schakron, President of Belizeans for Justice (BfJ), remarked, “Belizeans for Justice is very proud and honored to be hosting this Christmas party for the second consecutive year for the underprivileged children of Belize City. Ordinarily, these children would not get the opportunity to celebrate Christmas because of their socio-economic circumstances.

Therefore, we, at Belizeans for Justice, see it important for us to give them that opportunity. A lot of these children have lost one or, in some cases, both of their parents to crime and what better way to bring healing to their broken hearts than through the celebration of the spirit of Christmas”. Ms. Schakron went on to thank all those kind sponsors of the Christmas party and stated that Belizeans for Justice will continue to make it an annual event for the underprivileged children of Belize City.

Ms. Schakron ended by declaring, “On behalf of the Belizeans for Justice Family, we wish all Belizean families a Blessed, Merry & Safe Christmas 2011”.

Sunday, December 11, 2011

THE BELIZE TIMES

UDP spends $1M on new vehicles

Because she is a Barrow?

Belize City, December 4, 2011 Belize may be facing the worst economic times, but that’s not stopping the political vultures in the Barrow Administration from living like the filthy rich and the famous. Reliable information out of the Ministry of Finance indicates that very recently the Government spent a cool $1,000,000 for the purchase of new high-end vehicles for high Government officials.

Today those vehicles can be seen being paraded up and down the highways as if they were fuelled by UDP incompetence and not expensive gasoline that increase cost for taxpayers. Is there any reason a Minister of government needs a “limited edition” late-model vehicle? Don’t the tough times call for a revision of this vehicle policy to reflect prudent financial decisions?

It appears the UDP simply wants to squeeze out all they can from public coffers as their one-term Government comes to an end.

Anthony “Boots” Martinez is driving a lifesized Ford 150 truck, apparently meant for him to navigate smoothly through the pot-holed filled streets in the city and huge craters all over the Port Loyola constituency. Disgraced politician, Edmond Castro, appears to be falling back into good graces with the UDP as he has received a new white Toyota Hilux. Interestingly, the vehicle doesn’t even bear license plates, but Castro and his henchmen can be seen gallivanting and the people’s expense. The potholes have gotten so huge in the Belize Rural Central communities such as Ladyville and Hattieville that Hutchinson was also gifted an F-150 to make his driving less painful. Nemencio Acosta voted for the 9th Amendment and two weeks later got a promotion to Minister of State and was given the keys to a brand new pickup truck to continue his regular trips to Chetumal.

The Barrow Administration is downright despicable. In these times of hardship they flaunt greed and materialism but turn a blind eye to the needs of the people.

MORE BAD NEWS FOR BELIZE Moody’s says Belize’s financial strength is “very low”

Belize City, December 7, 2011 When it rains it pours and it has been pouring acid showers on the Barrow Administration. Almost every sector of the nation is in shock and it appears to be never-ending. In the economic sector, the UDP Government got another black-eye this week when Moody’s joined the list of agencies that have downgraded Belize’s ratings.

On Monday, Moody’s released its analysis of Belize’s economic state and revealed that it had downgraded Belize to a B3-C, because of “low” economic and institutional strengths and “very low” financial strength.

Among the many concerns raised

by Moody’s is the takeover of Belize Telecommunications Limited and Belize Electricity Limited which increased Government’s debt and exposure to greater liabilities, decreased foreign investment, security concerns, high debt burdens, reduced funding options, and “very high” susceptibility to event risk.

Continued from page 30 Solicitor General has been the subject of much derision in the legal fraternity as attorneys smirk when they hear her spouting legal nonsense, and obsolete law in defense of the Ninth Amendment. But it is perhaps not surprising at all because in truth, Ms. Krusen has never appeared in any court to argue any constitutional case. The running joke among attorneys some weeks ago was how many times she said to the CCJ judges that she was confused while the case was being heard!

But all this means naught in Barrow’s Belize. Ms. Krusen was then appointed a Senior Counsel. Now this is an amazing feat, when in order to be even considered for appointment as senior counsel in Belize, one must have distinguished oneself in the practice of law. How did Ms. Krusen manage to accomplish this weighty task in less than two months? She has never tried a case in court in Belize. When she has come to court, mostly for adjournments and simple applications, she brings her entourage of at least three lawyers from the AG’s Ministry; needing help even where an attorney of one year standing would argue that no such help is needed. So how, then did she manage get appointed senior counsel?

But the how of her appointment is only half the story.

The word is that when her appointment was discussed in the General Legal Council of the Bar, attorneys voted against her appointment on the ground that nothing was known of her practice since she had only been appointed for about two months, and our law requires at least eight years standing at the Bar before an attorney even qualifies for consideration.

But that did not stop the process – the AG voted for elevation and seemingly, his vote alone was enough for the then Acting Chief Justice.

When confronted with the law saying that she did not qualify, the AG did not blink. He had gone to court, some weeks ago to move her call and managed to get her admission to the bar backdated to the long time ago when she was a magistrate in Belize. This has been done even though Ms. Krusen was never a law officer to whom such courtesy is normally extended. This has been done even though it is blatantly, patently wrong and unlawful. But that does not stop them.

So, Cheryl Barrow Krusen who knows that she does not legally qualify knows she does not merit the appointment, knows the Bar voted against her appointment, forged ahead, heedlessly and still accepted the appointment as senior counsel. No honest, self-respecting, law-abiding junior attorney in her position would have accepted such an appointment. That she did do so, earning her the disapprobation of the bar among whom she now practices, speaks volumes.

The Bar Association has met and has now passed, on November 30, 2011, a unanimous resolution seeking judicial review of Ms. Krusen’s elevation to Senior Counsel on the ground of its irregularity, and some argue, illegality. It remains to be seen how the Attorney General, as “titular Head of the Bar”, will respond to such a move, or the ensuing suit. Embarrassing even for a Barrowed!

31

Humor in UDP Politics!

The following matters were discussed in this week’s Cabinet meeting.

• In the absence of the Prime Minister and should anything happen to Patrick, who would be in charge since Gapi’s plane is in Africa? They took a vote and Santino won – but he is not even a Cabinet member. Sedi protested and then Finnegan replies “he got we Christmas money, Ham and turkey too”.

• It was asked to vote by a show of hands how many members of Cabinet supported Santi. Suddenly everyone in the room hollered, “Aye”. ……………………….

In other related cabinet news - Ann Marie was asked to tender her resignation from running for politics.

- All Cabinet members burst into laughter when Faber suggested “imagine the possibilities” if Ann Marie or Chandra had won in Caribbean Shores.

- Sedi gave a report on his meeting with his Guatemalan contingent.

When asked why they were hugging so close to each other, he said he was telling him that the border was artificial.

- Montero asked if he could put one more order for rice for charitable gifts. ……………………….

Things are so bad under Barrow that Christmas deh yah and nobody got money even the Mayor of Belize City and Belmopan is seen at the pawn shop getting some much needed cash.

Things are so bad after Sunday’s convention Easy Glenn took out his red shirt and dentures from the pawn shop but by Monday had to pawn them back again.

32

THE BELIZE TIMES

Sunday, December 11, 2011