Belize Times February 28, 2016

SCAN HERE

The Belize Times

Established 1957

The Truth Shall Make You Free

28 FEBRUARY 2016 | ISSUE NO: 4982

www.belizetimes.bz | $1.00

SHADY!

Court rules that Barrow & Vega stole “Mek Mi Rich” concept

Andre Vega

Pg. 4 Dean Barrow

Pg. 3

Anwar Barrow

GAPI BLAMES “DEAN” FOR PAPAYA INDUSTRY COLLAPSE

Farewell to a General!

LET’S BUILD BELIZE TOGETHER

Pg. 12

Barrow’s Shylock Budget Pg. 6

FUEL PRICES TO INCREASE Pg. 4

PUP Leader Hon. John Briceno addressing Galen University students

Gapi Vega

Pg. 23

Shyne Barrow

Anwar Barrow

A BELIZEAN PROMETHEUS

Pg. 7

Pg. 9

TOP MODEL

0 22

OPINION OUT “Quo Vadis” University of Belize?

!

Contributed by Alvaro J. Rosado PhD. “The training of men is a difficult and intricate task, it’s technique is a matter for educational experts but it’s object is for the vision of seers”. (W.E. B. Du Bois, 1903) “The obligation of anyone who thinks of himself as responsible is to examine society and to try to change it and to fight it -at no matter what risk”. (James Baldwin, 1963) I read with interest last week’s editorial in the Amandala which was written in response to an article that was penned by Dr. Dorian Barrow in The Reporter Newspaper a few weeks ago. The Editor expressed his disappointment that other educators had not joined in the debate.

To provide some background on my “bona fides” to participate in the discussion I submit the following. I have worked in the Belize Educational System for 38 years unofficially and for 35 years officially. My involvement began as a pupil teacher at the age of 14 and I received my First Class Teachers Certificate at the age of 18. I was appointed Principal of a Primary school at the age of 18 and in 1968 I graduated from the Belize Teachers’ College as the Best All Round Student. After 7 years in the Primary School System I went on to teach at Wesley College, Lynam Agricultural College and Belize Jr. Secondary School #1(EP Yorke). After serving 11 years in the Secondary School System I was appointed Lecturer at the Belize Teachers’ Col-

LOCAL 25 Feb

28 FEB

THE BELIZE TIMES

OUT

lege. In 1990 I completed a PhD in the Administration of Higher Education and was appointed Vice President of UCB where I served until 2000 when I left to pursue a career in Health Administration at the KHMH. To summarize, my experience consists of 5 years in the Primary Education level, 11 years at the Secondary Education level and 22 years at the Tertiary Education level.

Having established my credentials I will now join the debate. The editorial stated that “His (Dr. Barrow’s) argument was that the national university has failed to do an adequate job of training teachers to acceptable standards, but the statistics he presented to buttress his argument, which was that the Belize Teachers College in its time had done a better job of same, were not all that convincing”. Dr. Barrow’s statistics were based on the quantity of “trained” teachers produced by UB. I would like to add a new dimension to the debate. Whereas the quantity of “trained” teachers is important I believe that the quality of trained teachers is as important if not more important than the quantity of “trained” teachers churned out by the system.

My contribution will focus on the quality of trained teachers that are being produced. My doctoral thesis (Rosado 1990) was based on a comparison of the teacher training provided by The Belize Teachers’ College as opposed to the teacher training provided by BELCAST. The findings showed that the teacher training provided by the original Belize Teachers’ College was by far more effective than the teacher training provided by BELCAST. According to my sources, things have not changed and in fact are worst now. During my most recent visit to a primary school in Belmopan the principal (a former student of mine at Belize Teachers’ College) vented frustrations with the “trained” teachers being graduated from the University of Belize. The editorial goes on to chide Dr. Barrow for his ‘transgressions” and provide the Editor’s perspective of political interventions in Belize’s educational system from the 1980’s through to the early 2000’s then makes a case for the return of the Belize Technical College to its former “independent” status. I have no interest in assigning blame to any individual or to dissect the past. From my personal experience I can state that political inContinued on page 8

WEATHER 26 Feb

27 Feb

28 Feb

PUP Unity Is the Way

!

Dear Editor Unity is strength... when there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved.

Mattie Stepanek Johnny Briceno is the new Leader of the People’s United Party. In a peaceful, free, and fair National Convention in Belmopan on Sunday January 31st, the majority of close to 3,000 delegates supported Johnny for the leadership position. His team also won the other positions up for elections by large margins.

Now that the convention is over, all Area Representatives, Standard Bearers, National Executive members, the leaders of the Marshalls, the Belize Youth Movement, and the Women’s Group, and all rank and file supporters of the People’s United Party should respect the decision of the delegates. We must work together in every possible way to make the party victorious in future polling especially the next general election.

Unity was one of the main demands of the people across the length and breadth of the country as they were courted by the three candidates, who vied for leadership on January 31st. We are all tired of suffering as a result of losing all nine elections since 2008 largely due to party infighting.

Magnanimous in victory, Johnny has stated that he will offer meaningful positions on the Party’s National Executive to both Francis Fonseca and Cordel Hyde, who also vied for the leadership.

That will be done to ensure that those two gentlemen play a critical role in the rebuilding of the party. It is good to know that both individuals have accepted the offer.

On Wednesday February 3rd former Party Leader Francis Fonseca took a major step in promoting togetherness in the party, when he attended the swearing in of Johnny Briceno as the new leader of the People’s United Party at Independence Hall. Six days later on Monday February 8, Cordel Hyde, who was absent from the swearing ceremony on Wednesday, also gave tremendous support to cohesiveness in the Party when he attended the swearing in of Johnny as the new Leader of the Opposition by the Governor General at his official resi-

2629Mar Feb

2016 dence in Belmopan. In speaking to the press at the event Hyde also stated publicly that he fully supports the new Party Leader.

In the rebuilding of the party to win future elections there will be differences of opinions on a number of things. That is expected. That’s natural with people. Those concerns however should be raised at the appropriate meetings of the Party where they can be properly discussed and decided upon in a mature and respectable way. At the same time in the interest of the people and the Party, whenever it’s possible, every effort should be made to reach a compromise on a particular issue.

When the P.U.P. is divided it cannot defeat the UDP which is responsible for the terrible suffering of the Belizean people.

In leading by example we do immeasurable good for the party when we speak well of the Leader and all the standard bearers and fully support the agenda for a better Belize. We must not spread UDP propaganda or the propaganda of malcontents at home or in public. That is designed to divide us, to keep us out of power, and keep us poor.

We need the P.U.P. back in Belmopan to build this nation. We need land, jobs, housing, education, streets and roads, health care, water, electricity, telephones, lower cost of living, sporting facilities, an end to massive corruption, and many other things to live a dignified life in our own country.

Lack of those basic things in many parts of the county is evidence of 8 consecutive years of neglect by the UDP administration. Better will come for the people and country of Belize when the People’s United Party is sent back to Belmopan. Let us therefore all unite behind Johnny Briceno, the newly elected leader of the People’s United Party.

Signed, Gilroy Usher, Sr. SCAN HERE

The Belize Times

Established 1957

14 APR 2013

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ISSUE NO: 4840

The Truth Shall Make You Free

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serving Belize since 1957 as the longest continuous newspaper.

Founder: Rt. Hon. George Cadle Price, People’s United Party Leader Emeritus EDITOR

Alberto Vellos LAYOUT/GRAPHIC ARTIST

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OFFICE ASSISTANT

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28 FEB

2016

THE BELIZE TIMES

SHADY!

Court rules that Barrow & Vega stole “Mek Mi Rich” concept Belize City, February 24, 2016 The Supreme Court slammed Belize Telemedia Limited led by Executive Chairman Anwar Barrow for practising shady business in a lottery game called “Mek Mi Rich” on Tuesday February 23rd 2016.

Judge Courtenay Abel delivered his ruling in a civil matter in which BTL and the directors of “Mek Mi Rich”, or MMR, were accused of misappropriating the game concept from Belizean entrepreneur Curtis Swasey.

Swasey told the Court that the “Mek Mi Rich” lottery draw model is his. He testified that in January 2012 he approached BTL marketing representatives and presented the concept for a lottery draw program which would be accessed exclusively by BTL customers through

text messaging. Swasey called the game Super Slam Sunday. According to Swasey, he signed an Information Exchange Agreement with BTL representatives which contained a two-year period of non-disclosure in the event the agreement would be terminated.

He said that he been in dialogue with BTL representatives on the program, providing training and preparing for implementation.

On August 7, 2014, however, BTL wrote Swasey informing that they would not accept his proposal. To Swasey’s surprise, a few weeks after receiving the letter, a lottery draw and game show called “Mek Mi Rich” was unveiled by MMR with BTL as their partners.

MMR’s owners are Cosme Hernandez and Sunil Daryanani.

Hernandez is the nephew of Deputy Prime Minister Gaspar Vega.

One of the company’s directors is Andre Vega, who is Deputy Prime Minister Vega’s son.

BTL is run at the top of its management structure by Anwar Barrow, the son of Prime Minister Dean Barrow.

BTL is owned by the Government of Belize, and so it is no coincidence that Anwar Barrow is in charge. It also isn’t surprising that the not-normal Deputy Prime Minister’s son is involved in this scheme.

From the very start of the case, the dealings between BTL and MMR appeared suspicious and even barefaced. Swasey and his attorney, Kareem Musa, convinced Judge Abel that on the balance of probabilities there was sufficient evidence to believe that Barrow and Vega’s MMR ended up making money from a concept that did not belong to them. ““It’s a huge moral victory.

It’s a huge victory on principle for Mr. Swasey. I want to first of all commend him. In my view he is a modern day David that went against the big telecommunications giant Goliath; BTL, and as we all know who those principals

03 3 are of BTL and of Mek Mi Rich.

He took on the giants and came out victorious today,” commented attorney Kareem Musa.

BTL’s attorney, Magali Perdomo, despite the loss in Court, was dismissive that her client had suffered any moral ground. She said the ruling was based on “circumstantial evidence”.

MMR’s attorney Naima Barrow was more accepting of the gravity of the ruling. “…the judge was not satisfied that the dealings were above board. The word he used was “Shady”. That was his interpretation and reception of the evidence given to him and it is his right as the Judge to assess that evidence. His assessment, I don’t agree with but that is where we are and that is the law until something else is done,” Barrow remarked.

Swasey was granted damages of $25,000 for the breach of agreement and confidence. This will be paid by BTL. But there is a huge window for further litigation seeking full compensation that involves the profits that MMR made from the lottery game concept for almost two years.

4 04

Gapi Blames “Dean” for Papaya industry Collapse

Belize City, February 22, 2016 Deputy Prime Minister Gaspar Vega has blamed “Dean” for the collapse of Fruta Bomba and Belize Fruit Packers, the papaya subsidiary companies which provided jobs to Belizeans along the northern belt.

Vega, in interviews this week, said the companies have been reeling from the disaster it faced when “Hurricane Dean” struck Northern Belize. Do you think there is any coincidence with Vega’s blaming of “Hurricane DEAN”? There couldn’t be. Hurricane Dean was almost eight years ago, under the former PUP Government. Couldn’t and shouldn’t the Government have done enough to assist the companies regain stability in order to save jobs?

But we know why Vega blamed it on “Dean”. We know that in the north the UDP reps are fuming and furious at the lack of Government leadership which is seeing the UDP’s political capital fade by the day, and with a leadership race on the horizon we are not surprised Vega chose launch this subliminal attack.

Vega is preparing for leadership. Patrick Faber has jumped ahead to announce his interest, but everyone knows Vega is gearing up for it.

Vega has 13 candidates on his side, and this UDP G-13 will make a move any time.

But on a more serious and sad note, at its peak, the companies provided employment to almost 400 Belizeans. Today, some 125 workers remain on the job but only for the next few months as the company prepares to fold.

We at the BELIZE TIMES agree. Dean IS to blame! His lack of vision and care for the needs of Belizeans has led to Belize’s worst economic crisis.

Farewell to a General!

Belize City, February 24, 2016 Today, February 24, 2016 the People’s United Party said farewell to a General.

George Domingo, 46, a Party stalwart who served the Party dutifully, was laid to rest on Wednesday afternoon at the St. Martin’s de Porres Church.

Domingo passed away on Monday, February 22nd, from heart related complications.

He was receiving treatment at the Buttonwood Bay Medical Center.

Party supporters and senior leaders, including Party Leader Hon. John Briceno and former Leader Hon. Francis Fonseca who is also the PUP Freetown area representative at whose side Domingo battled for victories, were present.

Hon. Francis delivered a moving remembrance at the start of the funeral services.

The Eulogy was delivered by Dr. Eugene Cleland.

Domingo is predeceased by his father George Domingo Sr. and sister Natalie Domingo. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Shallet Domingo, his mother Mrs. Jennifer Domingo residing in Los Angeles, brother Mervin Domingo, sister Yvette Cattouse, sons Kyle and Kylon, daughters Kayla and Karii Domingo, and step-children Kharif and Khamir Sutherland.

The PUP mourns the passing of this general and expresses condolences to the Domingo family.

28 FEB

THE BELIZE TIMES

2016

HALFORD ESTABLISHMENT INC. #58,003 (“the Company”) Pursuant to Section 102 (8) of the International Business Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2000, notice is hereby given that HALFORD ESTABLISHMENT INC. has been dissolved as at 23rd February, 2016 and has been struck off the Register of International Business Companies.

Cititrust International Limited Registered Agent

28 FEB

2016

THE BELIZE TIMES

5 05

EDITORIAL

I

The ship is sinking

n Belize, poverty and inequality have reached such an alarming level that the society as a whole is in crisis. The majority of Belizeans are living in survival mode.

More and more families have become marginalized, vulnerable and dependent on the hand-outs of the ruling UDP politicos who have turned vote-buying into a norm in the “democratic” process of electioneering. Imagine then, what is happening now that the UDP ministers have resumed back into their holes and the country faces its worst economic crisis.

Only the UDPs are surviving like royalty right now. You see them driving their fancy rides? Living in large mansion like homes?

The crumbs from the national budget is doled out to the poor supporters just enough to keep them quiet. The teeming masses are threatened with the hammer of victimization and transparent intimidation if they dare step out of line; if they dare to raise their voices in protest. If they do, no more food pantry for them; no chance of getting a plot of land on which to build a little house or start a little farm. Just talk to the many Belizeans not only in Trio Village but right across the country from north to east and west too.

Cronyism and nepotism have become the order of the day. The chief operator of cronyism is of course the Deputy Prime Minister Gaspar Vega. The Captain of the nepotism ship is the Prime Minister Dean Oliver Barrow.

The machinery of governance is rotten from top to bottom. The private sector has been polluted by the few chosen ones – the family and friends who become filthy rich with the award of multi-million dollar contracts as architects, engineers, bond and debt managers, litigation specialists (lawyers) and contractors. Meanwhile the teachers and mid to low-level public officers police, BDF, doctors and nurses are spun around from side to side, denied their much deserved salary adjustment.

Their last wage increase was during the term of the PUP – more than 5 years ago. The Public Service Union has been infiltrated and taken over by UDP henchmen. The teachers and members of the PSU have been cowed into submission by lies and false promises.

The few rich are getting richer. And the many poor are getting poorer. Income gaps are getting wider. There is growing inequality of opportunity especially in education and health.

“Captain”, sings the Calypsonian, “the ship is sinking”.

06 6

28 FEB

THE BELIZE TIMES

Barrow’s 2016 Shylock Budget

Security, the very areas which economic theorists view as wise investment to the development of a nation. Instead, huge allocations were awarded to various ambassadorial offices making the running cost of Belize even more “top heavy”.

It can be recalled that in 2011, Honorable John Briceno, the new Leader of the People’s United Party, called out Dean Barrow on his “emp-

ty pot” budget, citing the increase in Belizeans falling below the poverty line and unable to afford the basic goods and services such as food, healthcare and education. Also, the then Orange Walk East UDP Area Representative, Marcel Cardona, characterized Barrow’s ways of running the people’s business as that of “animal farm, where some animals are more equal than others”.

As the day of reckoning approaches nothing has changed regarding the anomalies that faced society then. Hon. John Briceno will have to take PM Barrow to task once again on the issues of old and new.

Once again he must remain focused and statesmanlike, and deliver to the Belizean people the truth about our

2016 sad state of affairs.

It is with faint hope that the Prime Minister does not skew from the vital issues that need to be addressed for the survival of the Land of the Free (Belize). A disservice will be done to the Belizean masses, especially the poor, if the Prime Minister counters with the usual engagement of personal, venomous attacks, uncalled disrespectful and unparliamentary remarks and internal PUP business.

I sincerely believe it has become necessary to restore the confidence and trust of the people in its Government. It is then that the people will believe in themselves and the Jewel to be able to save Belize and move our country forward.

Dean Barrow

By Hilairé Bennett The stage is being prepared for the Budget Debate 2016/2017.

Draft estimates, recommendations and forecasts are being submitted by various HODs (Heads of Department) for consultation prior to the presentation by the Honorable Dean Barrow, possibly in March 2016.

Undoubtedly, three factors will be the primary focus in the constructing of the 2016 budget: the resultant of several financial storms creeping to our shores, the compounding effects of climate change and trade liberalization on our Agro Industry; the “Banking Armageddon” which is the de-risking banking crisis; and our national debt. Subsidiary but important nonetheless are the social ills that continue to plague the jewel – poverty, inequality, joblessness, costly healthcare, crime and violence, and threats to national security.

Many Belizeans are pre-empting a budget of shylock proportions with Prime Minister Dean Barrow and the UDP Government exacting its “pound of flesh” from the Belizean populace through various austerity measures and budget cuts. The recent announcing of the impending firing of some 1,300 teachers, the increase in fees at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital and the cunningly introduction of some new taxes are signs of the WORST TO COME! Belizeans are being warned by various financial pundits and economic theorists to “batten down the hatches” from the economic storm heading to the shores of the Jewel.

Prime Minister Dean Barrow indicated that world economy may be “sliding back into recession” can be considered Bill Lindo’s forecast of the “second stage of financial crash”.

Lindo cited too much debt which cannot be paid off as the culprit for the incoming financial collapse.

Since taking office in 2008, the UDP has become a spendthrift Government failing political pragmatism, sound fiscal stewardship in the implementation and the formulating of sound fiscal policies.

In 2012 Dean Barrow called for fiscal discipline and expenditure restraint. However, he made the most blunderous budget cuts. He cut Healthcare, Education and National

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28 FEB

THE BELIZE TIMES

2016

A BELIZEAN PROMETHEUS

By Dickie Bradley Assad Shoman is the man who brought the idea of independence to Belize. He was the spark plug, the engine and the driver who finally steered our nation to political independence.

Assad did not do it alone as he would be the first to admit, but without him it is unlikely we would have shuffled off our colonial shackles and reach nationhood.

Thirty-five years after independence he is not even living in the country. He has taken up residence in the land of the great revolutionary, Fidel Castro.

The thing is Belize needs its Assad Shoman once more as it is clear we need his help against the existential threat of Guatemala, whose claim to half our country and all of our future is becoming more real and urgent.

I can’t remember when I first met Assad Shoman. I remember meeting his bosom buddy Said Musa. It was the morning after hurricane Greta.

Evan X Hyde, myself and “Baby Allan” were going around the city surveying the aftermath. We eventually landed up either at Said’s home or at a club on North Front Street where Said’s law firm presently stands.

I remember first meeting Evan X Hyde. It was a few weeks after a riot in the city by his organization, the United Black Association for Development.

Evan X had gone underground. I was working at the Post Office. I had to go to the Headquarters in Belmopan in the mail van on returning he hitched a ride.

He had the complete works of Shakespeare in his hand.

I can remember meeting George Price. As Secretary of the Cycling Association, the President, Denfield McNab, asked me to put together a commemorative brochure for the cross country cycle race. There had been none for years. Two tattered copies shown to me by Mr. Graham and Buck Belisle had “Messages” from the British Governor, Sports Minister Allan Arthurs and Premier Price.

I went upstairs of the Treasury building one Wednesday, gave my name and purpose to a fattish police name “Casanova” who was sitting by the stairs. The same bully police who had whipped my feet and the other young people in the lines to buy ticket for matinee at Palace.

When my turn came I was ushered into a room where the now Chief Justice’s Secretary, Julie Staine sits. The questions were rapid. Who was my father? Who was my mother? Where did they work? Where did I live? Did I support the peaceful, constructive revolution? He opened a drawer and looked through some black and white photographs. (Decades later, Minister Maxwell Samuels, former Police Commissioner mentioned to me there were photos from Special Branch of me stoning the government radio station.)

I wanted to get up and leave. It dawned on me why was I in front of a man my parents disliked and distrusted to the point of hatred, on the grounds he was selling out our country to Guatemala. How wrong they turned out to

be.

The Premier said he would not put any “message” in the cycling brochure, unless... Unless we left out the Message from the Governor. He explained why. I reported to the Cycling Committee and the Governor got the axe.

Assad Shoman was in and out of the large crowd. Shaking hands and patting shoulders. One of Price’s fiercest critics, now a major member of his team. It was a PUP meeting at Court House Wharf.

In Battlefield Park a huge crowd of UDP were heckling the meeting. Heckling was big time entertainment at political meetings. The louder and more colorful party supporters would shout mockeries and insults, as their various opponents took to the rostrum to speak. Speakers would hurl back responses. Painful and personal. There was tension and bottle throwing that night. Glen Vernon and myself were standing on the window sill of what is now Judge Lucas Court. We were facing Regent Street. William “Silky” Stuart emerged with a gun in his hand and fired into the UDP crowd. Mayhem. Pandemonium.

Two or three persons got shot, one a family member. Another, the rambunctious Wilfred Shubbu Brown. He went to his grave many years after with a bullet in his butt.

For the 1979 general elections, victory was in the air for the UDP. Dean Lindo would become Prime Minister and the PUP would lose their first general elections. It never happened. The combination of Assad Shoman, Said Musa and the Amandala of Evan X Hyde defeated the hysterical, anti-communist propagandists. Independence would be achieved two years later and the PUP would lose their first general elections three years thereafter.

George Price, who must have despaired many times over getting independence, appointed Assad Shoman to head a newly formed Independence Secretariat in 1971. The lightening rod had been let loose. The story of his awesome achievement and tireless, feverish, lobbying of the world community of nations would make Belizeans proud of this illustrious son of our soil.

So here we are at a judges’ and lawyers’ conference, Biltmore Hotel Friday 19th February 2016. “The Belize Guatemala Differendum: When And How Do We Draw the Lines”. Assad is among several speakers but is clearly the superstar in the room. Although you would never guess it. The brother is cool.

Mingling and chatting and occasionally signing various copies of his books. His Elvis Presley looks has changed as has the colour of his hair. His presentation is enjoyable. Not a single big word. The ordinary Belizean passing Queen Square market would understand everything he said. And those things are troubling.

Assad makes no secret that he supports taking Guatemala’s claim to the International Court of Justice. He is, after all, the architect of the negotiations and the facilitation processes that have brought us this far. But he is clearly troubled that our ship of state is in Port-O-Stuck with no wind and no engine. He is calling for negotiations. He suggests that we “negotiate everything but the Differendum”.

He told the lawyers and Judges that Guatemala had seized the initiative and was controlling the agenda. Belize needs to “take back the agenda”. He is suggesting the creation of a negotiating team and the revival of the National Advisory Commission.

Following the tension and stand-off between the militaries of Guatemala and Belize in 2001 on the Western Border it was Assad whose negotiating skills brought relief with the Confidence Building Measures agreement. Now that there is a resurfacing of problems, this time in the Sarstoon, Assad says new Confidence Building measures for our southern border is overdue.

Assad made reference to the presentation by David Jones, Commander of the BDF who has alerted us of possible military conflict at Sarstoon.

07 7 Assad also supports the establishment of an economic corridor along the Western border. I first heard this idea from Arthur Saldivar who is a trained university economist and attorney. It is a concept and a vision worth national discussion. It is hoped this initiative gets serious consideration.

There is such paucity of intellect and ideas these days.

At the Lawyers and Judges Conference, Said Musa asked Assad Shoman an important question. What would be the implications should oil be found in Toledo, or off the sea coast or out at sea? For those who don’t know what is happening in the real world around us, Guyana recently announced a huge oil find off its coast.

With the quickness Venezuela revised its claim and became assertive. Denis Hanomansingh, one of our Judges who hails from Guyana, informs that Guyana has called on the United Nations to actively involve itself, which they are doing. God forbid that oil be found in Toledo or in our sea. The Guatemala claim would become academic.

Should Donald Trump become President of the United States of America, Guatemala will get a big chunk of our country. Should Hillary Clinton be President, Belize will be forced to cede land through some arbitration or ICJ process. And we squandered away eight years of a black President who could have helped protect our territorial integrity.

In opening his presentation, Assad told the gathering that both the PUP and UDP have always conceded that they are prepared to cede portions of our sea. Maybe the lame response of government to Guatemala’s take-over of Sarstoon is not so lame after all.

In appointing Assad Shoman to be Prometheus for his independence cause I wondered if George Price believed that after 30 years he would still see Belize become independent, to the everlasting credit of his vision and the man he appointed.

As Guatemala continues to play us and we continue to play, the question is whether we can jump out of the box and turn the beat around.

Our new vision should be, go back to the world community for support, that Britain should pay compensation to Guatemala and leave our land and sea alone.

08 8 OUT “Quo Vadis” University of Belize?

Continued from page 2 terference in the educational system first reared its ugly head in the 1980’s then abated in the 1990’s only to return with a vengeance in the late 90’s and continues unabated to date.

Politicians and political appointees have a role in the educational system but I believe that their role was clearly defined in the above opening quote from W.E.B. Du Bois. Du Bois contends that the object (the purpose) of education is for the vision of seers (a role that I would argue is for the politicians and political appointees with inputs from appropriate professionals) but its technique (how to achieve the purpose) is a matter for educational experts. In Belize it seems to me that at worst we seem to have reversed the roles and the educational experts advise the politicians on the purpose of our educational system and the politicians then instruct the educational experts as to how to achieve the purpose. At best the politicians are unaware of their real role or have abdicated their responsibility to be or even to act as the visionaries who decide and dictate the purpose of our educational system.

But I digress. I agree with both Dr. Barrow and the Editor in their respective objectives regarding the need to do a better job in regards to teacher education and engineering (I would add Nursing Education to the list) but I hasten to say that I disagree with both that this can only be achieved by reverting to independent institutional status. The driving force behind the amalgamation of the various tertiary institutions is a little known fact – I would not be surprised if some of the key players in the amalgamation were not aware of the real reason for amalgamating the institutions.

In the 1990’s CARICOM embarked on a mission “For the Development of a CARICOM Strategic Plan for Tertiary Education Services in the CARICOM Single Market and Economy”. The reasons given for this undertaking was: • The need to rationalize qualifications frameworks, facilitate certificate recognition based on agreed standards and the need to facilitate mobility across and upwards in the tertiary sector.

• The need for a Regional Accreditation Agency that would bring order, process and desirable standards to the system.

• The need for a framework for functional cooperation and collaboration among sector partners.

• The need to align the tertiary sector and its output to the requirements and aspirations of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME).

I believe that the Belizean authori-

28 FEB

THE BELIZE TIMES ties saw the wisdom in the reasons stated above and in keeping with the CARICOM Mandate Belize proceeded with the amalgamation of the five target institutions. Unfortunately they placed more emphasis on the CARICOM goals than on the needs of Belize. The object (purpose) of that exercise was noble but the technique employed was deficient. As with the BELCAST takeover of Belize Teachers’ College in early 1980’s those responsible for the amalgamation of the UB constituent institutions failed to see the trees because of the forest.

The BELCAST experience exposed the superficiality of that exercise when a perfectly functional teacher training program was butchered to fit the BELCAST “University” profile. Instead of determining the specifications of the desired product (in this case the trained teacher) and adjusting the institutional specifications to produce such a product the institutional specifications were first established and then the product was redefined to fit the institutional specifications. The result was equivalent to forcing a square peg into a round hole. This was a classic demonstration that if the only tool in your kit is a hammer then everything you see looks like a nail.

I submit that reverting to independent institutional status would be retrograde and counterproductive. In the case of the UB School of Education where the teacher training program was designed around a credit hour system it should not have been difficult to adapt the credit hour system to accommodate the tried and proven program that had been offered at the Belize Teachers’ College. In respected universities abroad credit is given for kite flying and face painting – why can we not revisit the Belize Teachers’ College Program and award credits for the relevant component courses that were offered as a part of the Teacher training Program e.g. Music, Arts and Craft, Block Practice Teaching, Internship, Teaching Methods, Audio Visual Aids etc. instead of trying to fit a square peg into a round hole.

I am of the opinion that some skills are best acquired through an internship type program as was the case at the Belize Teachers’ College and the Bliss School of Nursing. At these institutions students were provided with the prescribed academic knowledge but they were also given the opportunities to observe masters plying the trade and to practice under supervision with advice and suggestions of competent teachers and nurses. The framework for the previously used teacher education and nursing programs are available and there are still competent and experienced practitioners to man the ramparts. It looks like the authorities responsible for the amalgamation were more obsessed with “looking” like a university and with the CARICOM goals than with graduating competent teachers and nurses. The “amalgamators” apparently had their concept of what a university should look like and the teaching and nursing programs were retooled to fit their university profile. UB looks good on paper but based on its performance to date the reality is that it is more comparable to a dysfunctional apartment building.

Belize needs an Education System which will mold men and women out

2016

of masons and waitresses instead of the present system which seems more intent on molding masons and waitresses out of our men and women. Alas “Where there is no vision the people perish”. (Proverbs 29:18 KJV) I close with a quote from the famous 1895 Booker T. Washington’s Atlanta Compromise Speech.

“A ship lost at sea for many days suddenly sighted a friendly vessel. From the mast of the unfortunate vessel was seen a signal: “Water, water. We die of thirst.” The answer from the friendly vessel at once came back: “Cast down your bucket where you are.” A second time, the signal, “Water, send us wa-

ter!” went up from the distressed vessel. And was answered: “Cast down your bucket where you are.” A third and fourth signal for water was answered: “Cast down your bucket where you are.” The captain of the distressed vessel, at last heeding the injunction, cast down his bucket and it came up full of fresh, sparkling water (flowing like a river) from the mouth of the Amazon River.” Cast down your bucket where you are UB. The answers to our problems are right here in Belize. The CARICOM goals and Belize’s national needs are not mutually exclusive! “He who has eyes to see, let him see, and he who has ears to hear, let him hear.”

VACANCY SALES REPRESENTATIVE Job Skills/Requirements:  Customer Service oriented.  Minimum 2 years sales experience necessary.  Knowledge of hardware products (Not a requirement but would be an asset).  Strong verbal and written communication skills.  Strong organizational skills.  Team Player.  Prepared to travel out district at least 50% of working time.  Prepared to overnight out district as required.  Has a valid driver’s license.

Send application along with two letters of reference and police record to: vguerrero@hofiusbelize.com

28 FEB

2016

THE BELIZE TIMES

Belizean Beauty

Christina

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10 SPORTS

THE BELIZE TIMES

BDF hold Police to 2-2 draw

Belize City, February 21, 2015 The Belize Defence Force football squad put a stop to defending champs Police United FC’s winning streak with a 2-2 draw in the Premier League of Belize’s closing season tournament at the MCC Garden on Sunday afternoon.

BDF defenders Vallan Symns, Ricky Ricketts and Mark Arzu were all in the goal area but somehow left Police United’s Devon Makin unmarked, allowing him to receive a pass from Carlton “Fubu” Thomas and blast it past BDF goalie Kevin Gamboa for the Police to lead 1-0 in the 39th minute.

After the break, Harrison “Kafu” Roches gave his team a 2-0 lead when he connected a pass from Lennox “Criminal” Castillo into the net in the 73rd minute.

The BDF did not go belly-up, as they won a free kick and Harrison Tasher’s execution beat goalie Keith Allen and

2016

Carlton “Fubu” Thomas shoots Leon Cadle booted the ball into the net 2-1.

In the 88th minute Ricky Ricketts served to Harrison Tasher whose right-away shot embarrassed goalie Keith Allen with a 2nd goal for the soldiers and it’s a 2-2 draw at the long whistle.

Other matches: Placencia Assassins vs. Belmopan Bandits-0-0, Michael Ashcroft Stadium, Saturday night Wagiya FC, Dangriga vs. Verdes FC-1-0, Norman Broasters Stadium, Sunday

Compre girls win football championship Belize City, February 20, 2016 Western Zone football champs Belmopan Comprehensive School girls won the high school female football nationals hosted by St. John’s College high school at the MCC Garden over the weekend.

In the championship final on Saturday afternoon, the Compre girls blew away Northern Zone champs, Corozal Community College girls 3-0 with Viviannie Pivarel scoring the 1st goal in the 1st half. After the break, Jayda Brown scored a 2nd goal; and Ana Arias scored the 3rd goal.

In 3rd place on Saturday morning, the Southern Zone champs Independence High girls won 1-0 over SCA when Luz Acevedo scored a penalty late in 2nd half.

28 FEB

On Friday, the Compre girls came back from a 1-0 deficit to spank the Independence High School girls 3-1.

The CCC girls had to go to penalties to eliminate Central Zone champs, the St. Catherine’s Academy girls 4-2.

The champs, 2nd and 3rd place winners received team trophies and individual medals from SOL Belize corporate representative Rufino Lin. Individual Awards: Best Goalkeeper – BCS’ Julie Ramirez Best Defense – BCS’ Elizabeth Cadle Best midfielder – CCC Gabriela Cowo Best Striker – Jayda Brown (3 goals) MVP – BCS’ Ana Arias (2 goals)

Harrison Roches scored Police’s 2nd goal

Julian Cho boys dominates football nationals Belize City, February 20, 2016 The Julian Cho High School boys from Big Falls in the Toledo District celebrated their championship victory in the high school male football nationals held at the MCC Garden over the weekend.

The Julian Cho boys took the 1st Place trophy over A.C.C. 3-1. Jarren Lambey headed in the 1st goal from a corner kick from Stephen Williams. ACC’s Akeem Sutherland scored a penalty to equalize 1-1 before the half. In the 2nd half, Julian Cho got a penalty but ACC’s Alvin Mangandi stopped Justin Trapp’s attempt to convert. Julian Cho’s team captain Clayton Fitzgibbon scored a 2nd goal and Justin scored a 3rd goal.

For 3rd place, the San Pedro boys won 3-1 over the Cayo boys on Saturday morning. Cayo’s Osvin Parham scored a penalty to lead 1-0 at the half. In 2nd half, San Pedro’s Luis Mencias scored a penalty: 1-1; Omar Ogaldez scored a 2nd goal and Ashton Lopez scored Isla Bonita’s 3rd goal.

Individual Awards: Best Goalkeeper – A.C.C.’s Alvin Mangandi Best Defense – JCHS’ Enfield Nunez Best Midfield – JCHS’ Clayton Fitzgibbon Best Striker – JCHS’ Jarren Lambey MVP – JCHS’ Clayton Fitzgibbon

ACC’s Trevaughn Rhaburn

28 FEB

2016

SPORTS 11

THE BELIZE TIMES

NISSAN ARANA WINS SUNDAY'S 120-MILE RACE

Nissan Arana

Brandon Cattouse

Ron Vasquez

Belize City, February 21, 2016 Nissan Edgar Arana of the Westrac Alliance Team won the 120-mile race to Mount Hope and back to Leslie’s Imports on the George Price Highway on Sunday, February 21.

Top 10 Results: 1st Nissan Arana – Team Westrac Alliance – 4:57:21 2nd Brandon Cattouse – C-ray road Addikz – 4:57:34 3rd Ron Vasquez – Team Western Spirit – 4:57:42 4th Herman “Hijo” Requena – Team SMART 5th Ron Mckenzie – Team Westrac Alliance 6th Joel Vanegas – Team DigiCell 4G 7th Angel Tzib – Team BECOL Uprising 8th Quinton Hamilton – Unattached 9th Robert Lima Stewart – Team Western Spirit 10th Giovanni Lovell – Team DigiCell 4G

Wesley College girls lead high school softball St. Martin girls

St. Martin De Porres wins district basketball champs Wesley girls

SJC & E.P. Yorke boys win softball matches

E.P. Yorke boys

St. Martin boys Belize City, February 17, 2016 The St. Martin De Porres RC School girls and boys will represent the Belize District when the national primary schools basketball championship is held at Orange Walk Multi-Purpose Complex this coming Friday and Saturday, February 26-27; after both teams won the Belize District finals at Birds’ Isle last Wednesday.

The Martin’s boys won the Belize District championship finals over Belize Elementary boys 3923 with Elijah Gabourel scoring 16 pts and Lyndon Gentle added 11 pts. Evan Welch and Tyreck Solis

scored 4pts apiece and Kentrel Marshall scored a bucket The St. Martin’s girls eliminated the city champs, the up-to-then undefeated St. John’s Anglican School girls 13-12 in the championship final.

Martin’s Shantel Flowers top scored with 7pts.

Other Matches: St. John’s Anglican girls vs. San Pedro RC School - 16-3 St. Martin’s girls vs. Burrell Boom Methodist - 17-1 St. Martin’s boys vs. San Pedro RC School boys - 26-25 BES boys vs. Hattieville Government - 17-8

12

THE BELIZE TIMES

28 FEB

2016

LET’S BUILD BELIZE TOGETHER Presentation by Leader of the People’s United Party, Hon. John Briceño, to Galen University Students Thursday, February 17, 2016 It’s great to be here with you at Galen in Beautiful Cayo -- not only because this is my first presentation since becoming Leader of the People’s United Party, but also because I really like the energy I get when I am around young people--it’s contagious. I was once a high school teacher and every time I stepped on to the campus at Muffles College I felt a rush of optimism.

I’m grateful for the warm hospitality you’ve shown me so far, including from senior administrators and faculty and now from all of you gathered here.

Galen is a young and vibrant institution, and each of you will play a seminal role in how this institution grows in stature and prestige.

More so, you will help to shape our nation in the generations to come. There is no better time for you to start thinking about how you want to build our nation than the present. As John Legend puts it: “we’re the generation that can’t afford to wait, the future started yesterday and we’re already late.”

Now, I know that many of you here today are jaded by the political process in Belize and I can’t say I blame you. Our current political climate is poisoned by petty personal politics, political pluralism, cronyism and greed. Often the system seems so corrupt that you may think it is best just to abandon it and start over.

Some people believe that the answer to all this is to introduce campaign finance legislation, but that won’t change attitudes and if we do not change attitudes then some will simply find a way around the law.

Still, as unattractive as it may seem; as broken as it may be; we somehow find a way to maintain a democratic system free from violence and destruction and however flawed, the will of the people prevail. So the system may indeed be broken, but it is fixable. Ugly as it may be, it is better than the alternative, which could be despotism and tyranny.

When young people say they have no time for politicians; when you say that the two major political Parties are just “six a one or half dozen ah the next,” or when people speak of the PUDP, it strikes a discordant note in those of us who are involved in the political process.

PUP supporters believe we are different from the other political parties in many ways. As for my part, I want to change your indifference towards the process so we can get as many of

PUP Leader Hon. John Briceno addressing Galen University students

our young people to actively participate in the political process over and beyond just voting.

As it relates to ideology, I also realize that many of you have moved past some of the old debates that so often divide us. You want to see Belize move forward in a way that benefits your generation. Maybe you would wish we could better appreciate your way of thinking, which I believe is energetic, dynamic, diverse and even impulsive. I find all of this hopeful. See I am inspired by your generation’s creativity, by your openness and your boldness.

My 22-year-old son sometimes blows me away by how his mind works. My son wants to be entrepreneurial, he no want no government job, or no bank job, he is looking to build his own ladder instead of climbing someone else’s. His conversations with friends are about ideas and his range of possibilities will never be limited or constrained by political affiliation, religion, gender or status. The culture wars, which marked my generation seem passé, completely out of step with this time.

Johnny is no different than those of you in here who care less about Belize and the world as it was, and more about Belize and the world as it should be and

can be. I bet that each of you here today and all of your friends are disgusted by a process that panders to nepotism and cronyism, and you should be. You are here working hard because you want a system that is meritorious, one that values your hard work and sacrifice.

You know what is possible in today’s world.

None of you want to be constrained; you want the freedom to create something new and dif-

ferent. See your possibilities are limitless as long as you have the Internet as your laboratory, your library or your playground. Your power derives from your creativity and is fueled by the limitless options that are available right in the palm of your hand.

This is the backdrop upon which I find myself as the new Leader of the PUP and this is what inspires the message I bring to you today: We must see Belize as it should be if we are to make it better. What it was can only serve as lessons learnt, what it is can only be a catalyst, our actions today and how we adopt and change must shape what we want Belize to be tomorrow.

This leads me to that important question I get asked everyday: my vision for our country, which I will try to sum up in two short sentences: I want us to work together to build Belize, all of us. Also I want to build a Belize that works for everyone. To put it in more philosophical terms: from each, person-

al responsibility for each opportunity that will bring about prosperity. If we give people the opportunity to improve their lives and the lives of the people they love this will lift up families and then together families can lift communities and that is how we lift a nation, by building stronger communities.

This is how we get people to buy in; this is how we build, by investing in our greatest resource PEOPLE. This is not an abstract concept, it is something that can be done and it has been done. Think of our Independence. When Mr. Price started to talk about independence in the 1950’s Belize was not yet self-governing, we were the colony of British Honduras. Few of our people had a high school education.

The naysayers felt we could never govern ourselves, some wanted us to stay as we were, some wanted us to become a colony of the United States. Mr. Price and those young Belizeans of his generation rejected any alternative that did not include full internal selfgovernment and then independence. We did not achieve self-government until 1964, and one generation later, we achieved our political independence without shedding one drop of blood and with all our territory intact.

Now, more than 34 years later, we are still here, stronger and better than we were prior to independence. We have built institutions that reinforce our passion for free and fair elections, a key pillar of our democracy.

We have an economic base upon which we can build and grow our prosperity, and we have institutions that foster public and private sector growth. Today more Belizeans have access to education, although not enough.

We respect the rule of law for the most part; we have a professional public service and our partnerships with religious and civil society are respectable. The fundamentals upon which our state is being built are solid. To have done this much in such a short time speaks to the determination of the Belizean people.

Still, after 34 years we need to look ahead and in looking ahead I feel the task of our generation cannot be incremental, we have to leap forward. We have to adapt to change.

First our infrastructure must be improved so that we can take advantage of the potential that exists for us in agriculture production.

Second I want us to build our technology platforms so that we can compete in the service industry and third, we must build our human resource capacity and by that I mean investing in our people.

Think about it, most of our people are

Continued on page 13

28 FEB

2016

THE BELIZE TIMES

13

PUP Leader meets Corozal North & Corozal South West Executive Committees February 24, 2016 On Tuesday, February 23rd, Party Leader Hon. John Briceño started his tour visiting key Party officials who form the machinery of the PUP. His first visit was to the Corozal North Executive and Corozal South West Executive Committee members.

The Party Leader presented his plans to re-energise the Party and get it fully prepared for battle to take Belize back from the disastrous United Democratic Party. The Party Leader also listened to the concerns and suggestions of Committee members.

The Party Leader was joined by the Party Chairman Henry C. Usher.

The Leader will be visiting all 31 divisions as part of this tour.

LET’S BUILD BELIZE TOGETHER Continued from page 12

young. Almost three quarter of our population is younger than 35 years old. We have the human resource capacity young enough and strong enough and creative enough for us to use technology to build Belize in such a way that we earn smart. Earning smart means we squeeze every dollar we can out of what we produce. What we produce must not be harmful to our environment and it must be done so that we can secure something for the next generation.

If we have to sacrifice our natural resources like petroleum for example, let us ensure that a part of this finite resource is reserved for the future, whether we use what we make from it today to finance education tomorrow, or if we invest some of what we make today in health for tomorrow.

I want to strengthen our legal system so that the law is fair across the board. I want an education system that is relevant and inclusive and a health system that helps to build strong bodies and minds.

A Belize that works for everyone is about personal responsibility. That means that each of us must give as well as receive.

One idea I would want you all to support is a scholarships and grant programme that is tied to a service component. Yes there are those who should earn full scholarships based on academic excellence, but that should be only for those at the very top. The rest who are also deserving of some form of financial aid should be asked to give back through community service.

Let us take 80 percent of tuition grant and aid provided by government and link it to some sort of after school or summer programme in academic tutoring, or the arts, or athletics. Let’s build a student service corps program that matches the skills and talents of financial aid recipients with service learning. For example our college students athletes who are on scholarships should be the assistant coaches in our high schools. College students who know music should be helping our marching bands in our elementary schools and in our secondary schools. Students who are academically at

risk, should benefit from peer services and academic tutoring. Service learning could and should be a part of the curriculum in all our tertiary level institutions. Giving back is in it self reward.

We must insist on a passion for learning for this is the only way we will defeat poverty and I intend to declare war on poverty. For us to win this war we will need an army and this army will have to be conscript, volunteerism is simply not working. Every Belizean who is sentenced to a life of poverty is a scar on our collective conscience.

Today too many of our people are living a life that is driving them to misery. NO Belizean deserves to live in fear because of need. All of us share responsibility for their plight.

Since the start of the millennium we have lost over 1600 young Belizeans to violent crime and death from unnatural causes.

Today there are more than a thousand Belizeans--productive Belizeans--incarcerated.

We are squandering our valuable human resource capacity. You all know why this is happening; you have done the research, listened to the debates, and buried a friend or neighbour. This is not the Belize we desire or deserve. We can’t build walls high enough

to lock out almost half of our people who are poor. We can’t say we live in a good country if thousands of our children who want to go to school can’t go.

You can’t be asked to borrow thousands of dollars to finance your education only to find out you cannot get the kind of job that will set you on a career path. In this day and age our young people should not be dying from AIDS because they are too afraid of the stigma that comes from getting tested and having access to the very medicines that will keep them alive. We have to change this backdrop. We have to create opportunity so that everyone can prosper if we will demand responsibly from each of us and we need everybody.

My friends, I come from a family of people who have spent their entire lives engaged in public service. My grandfather, my father and my uncle all held public office and my mother was a schoolteacher. Some of my cousins, uncles who are public officers and I have family members who are cane farmers. In fact my brother and I are also cane farmers. Our family believes in hard work and sacrifice. As business owners we employ many hard working Belizeans. We also believe in giving back to the community. I value hard work, decency and dedication. I believe that all of us deserve a chance to be the best we can be. This is why

I have dedicated most of my adult life to public service, because I am convinced that each of us possess the capacity for goodness.

Here in Belize we have the human capacity and the resources to make Belize into the kind of country we sing about in our patriotic songs and we assert in the preamble of our Constitution which affirm that the dignity of the human person and the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family are endowed to them by their Creator. This is our Belizean dream; this is the Belize we all aspire to live in, a nation of people who should live dignified lives, where their rights are protected and where they can enjoy peace and prosperity. This is the Belize we have to build and it will only be built as such if all of us work and all of us prosper.

We have our compact; the generation before us started the work, now we must move our country forward. Together we must leap forward if we are going to make Belize what it should be. Our best days are indeed ahead of us, but lest we forget: “the future started yesterday and we’re already late.”

Let’s have a discussion and together we can develop this vision of what should be.

Thank you.

14

28 FEB

THE BELIZE TIMES

2016

PUBLIC AUCTION

BY ORDER OF THE MORTGAGEE, DEVELOPMENT FINANCE COOPERATION, CERTIFIED AND LICENSED AUCTIONEER MIGUEL A. ELLIS WILL SELL THE FOLLOWING PROPERTIES: On Wednesday , 9th March, 2016 at DFC Office, Coney Drive, Belize City At 10:30am No.

1A

1B

1C

1D

AE

2

Name

Description

Development

MADHU ODHERMAL BABANI

All that piece or parcel of land situate North of the Western Highway now George Price Highway near Mile 8 1/2, Poor Man’s Rest Area, Belize District comprising 45.53 acres as drawn on Entry No. 6039, Register No. 25 held under Deed of Conveyance dated the 2nd April, 2013 being the freehold property of MADHU ODHERMAL BABANI.

MADHU ODHERMAL BABANI

All that piece or parcel of land situated at west of Phillip Goldson Highway near Mile 32, Belize District containing 49.99 acres as shown on Entry No. 14489, Register No. 3 held under Empty plot of land Deed of Conveyance dated the 1st December, 2014 being the freehold property of MADHU ODHERMAL BABANI.

MADHU ODHERMAL BABANI

All that piece or parcel of land being Block No. 2 situated along the west side of Phillip Goldson Highway near Mile 32, Belize District containing 27.73 acres as shown on Plan Entry No. 13890 held under Deed of Conveyance dated the 18th February, 2014 being the freehold property of MADHU ODHERMAL BABANI.

Empty plot of land

MADHU ODHERMAL BABANI

Parcel No. 8965, Block No. 7, San Pedro Registration Section containing 1 Acre situate 3.5 Miles North of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, Belize District held under Land Certificate being the freehold property of MADHU ODHERMAL BABANI.

Empty plot of land

MADHU ODHERMAL BABANI

Parcel No. 8964, Block No. 7, San Pedro Registration Section containing 1 Acre situate 3.5 Miles North of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, Belize District held under Land Certificate being the freehold property of MADHU ODHERMAL BABANI.

Empty plot of land

JACQUELINE DENISE TAM

Parcel No. 2450, Block 7, San Pedro Registration Section, containing 450.17 S.Y. situate in San Pedrito Area, San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, Belize District, Belize, held under Land Certificate being the freehold property of JACQUELINE DENISE TAM.

One - Three (3) bedroom timber house containing 1 kitchen, 1-living, 1-dining and 1 bathroom attached to a porch: Building Size: 450.17 S.Y

Empty plot of land

Picture

28 FEB

15

THE BELIZE TIMES

2016

PUBLIC AUCTION

BY ORDER OF THE MORTGAGEE, DEVELOPMENT FINANCE COOPERATION, CERTIFIED AND LICENSED AUCTIONEER MIGUEL A. ELLIS WILL SELL THE FOLLOWING PROPERTIES: On Wednesday , 9th March, 2016 at DFC Office, Coney Drive, Belize City At 10:30am No.

Name

Description

Development

ARTURO ADOLFO LIZARRAGA

All that piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 55 in the subdivision known as Los Lagos, situate in the Mile 13 Area, Northern Highway, Ladyville, Belize District, held by Deed of Conveyance dated 6th February, 2003, being the freehold property of ARTURO ADOLFO LIZARRAGA.

Three (3) bedrooms bungalow house, one (1) kitchen, one (1) living area, two (2) bathroom and an open porch.

Measuring 1104.72 S.Y.

4

FREE ZONE OFFICE

All that piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 54 in the subdivision known as Los Lagos, situate in the Mile 13 Area, Northern Highway, Ladyville, Belize District, held by Deed of Conveyance dated 6th February, 2003, being the freehold property of FREE ZONE OFFICE LIMITED.

Three (3) bedrooms bungalow house, one (1) kitchen, one (1) living area, one (1) bathroom and an open porch.

Measuring 571.72 S.Y.

5

EMELITA GABOUREL

Lot No. 102 containing 1105.60 S.Y. Hattieville Belize District, held under Minister’s Fiat Leases No. 436 of 1995, being the Leasehold property of EMELITA GABOUREL.

One-Two (2) bedrooms bungalow house, one (1) kitchen, one (1) living area, one (1) bathroom. Measuring 1105.60 S.Y.

6

Parcel 675, Block 45, St. Martin De Porres West Registration Section containing 411.14 S.Y. being the freehold property of JUDITH JUDITH KAY CACHO KAY CACHO. ( Located on the Corner of Raleigh Street & McKay Boulevard, Belize City, Belize)

7

JAMES THOMAS BOWMAN

All that piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 306 containing 541.966 S.M in the subdivision known as Los Lagos in the Mile 13 area, Northern Highway, Ladyville, Belize District, held by Deed of Conveyance dated 12th June, 2007, being the freehold property of JAMES THOMAS BOWMAN.

Four (4) bedroom bungalow house 1 kitchen, 1 living area, 1 dining, 2 bathroom, and an open porch Measuring 648.191 S.Y.

VAUGHAN HARRISON GILL & JENIVE ANNESTINE GILL

All that piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 386 in the subdivision known as Los Lagos, situate in the Mile 13 Area, Northern Highway, Ladyville, Belize District, held by Deed of Conveyance dated 25th April, 2005, being the freehold property of VAUGHAN HARRISON & JENIVE ANNESTINE GILL

One, three (3) Bedroom concrete bungalow comprising 1 Bath, 1 Kitchen, 1 Dining and 1 living attached to an open porch. Building size: 25’6” x 30’5”

3

8

One two (2) bedroom concrete bungalow dwelling containing 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 1 living and dining.

Building Size: 22.5’ x 32’.

Picture

16

28 FEB

THE BELIZE TIMES

2016

PUBLIC AUCTION

BY ORDER OF THE MORTGAGEE, DEVELOPMENT FINANCE COOPERATION, CERTIFIED AND LICENSED AUCTIONEER MIGUEL A. ELLIS WILL SELL THE FOLLOWING PROPERTIES: On Wednesday , 9th March, 2016 at DFC Office, Coney Drive, Belize City At 10:30am No.

9

10

11

12

13

Name

Description

Development

JOSE ALVAREZ

All that piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 289 containing 541.996 S.Y. in the subdivision known as Los Lagos, situate in the Mile 13 area, Northern Highway, Ladyville, Belize District, held by Deed of Conveyance dated 30th day of December, 2004, being the freehold property of JOSE ALVAREZ.

Three (3) bedroom bungalow house 1 kitchen, 1 living area, 1 dining, 1 bathroom and open porch. Measuring 648.0 S.Y.

CLINTON VINCENT LIGHTBURN

Parcel 1410, Block 45, Albert/Mesop Registration Section containing 154.073 S.M. situate on No. 81 West Canal Street, Belize City, Belize District, being the freehold property of CLINTON LIGHTBURN.

A Three (3)-story wooden building.

Comprising of 221.00 S.Y. Building size: 39’x51’.

MARIA DEL SOCORRO PEREZ

All that piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 180 containing 629.776 S.M., situate along Mile 8 Western Highway, Belize District held under Minister’s Fiat Lease No. 209 of 2000 dated March 17 2000 and being the leasehold interest of MARIA PEREZ.

One-Two (2) bedroom elevated concrete house containing 1-bathroom, 1-Living, 1-Dining and 1-Kitchen with front and back porch. Size: 685.00 Sq. Ft

GILL’S COMPANY LIMITED

Parcel 613, Block 45, Lake Independence Registration Section containing 299.30 S.Y. situate in Belize City, Belize District held under Land Certificate being the freehold property of GILL’S COMPANY LIMITED. (Located on Johnson Street & Magazine Road, Belize City, Belize)

Recently constructed Two storey building. Size: 1,905.70 Sq. Ft.

ANGEL CASTILLO VON HENKEL

All that lot piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 291 containing 642.22 S.Y., in the subdivision known as Los Lagos, situate in the Mile 13 area, Northern Highway, Ladyville, Belize District, as surveyed by Kenneth A. Gillett, licensed surveyor and recorded at the office of the Commissioner of Lands and Surveys, Belmopan at Register 16 Entry 4460, held under Deed of Conveyance dated the 30th day of October, 2013, being the freehold property of ANGEL CASTILLO VON HENKEL.

One - Two (2) bedroom concrete bungalow containing 1-kitchen, 1-dining and 1-living room. Size: 740.80 Sq. Ft.

Miguel A. Ellis P.O. Box 118, Belmopan, Ph: 634-9058 E-Mail: Miguel_ellis@hotmail.com Please contact DFC for financing

Picture

28 FEB

2016

A Time of Bliss

By G. Michael Reid In the same way that Memorial Day opens the summer season for our neighbours up north, Benefactor’s Day heralds the arrival of our dry season. This holiday was initially given in honour of Belize’s biggest benefactor Baron Bliss and I thought it appropriate, timely and educational to republish this piece that I did several years ago.

Baron Henry Edward Ernest Victor Bliss, JP was born in the Buckingham County of England on the 16th of February, 1869.

His real surname was actually Barretts but was changed to Bliss just about the time that he acquired the title of fourth Baron of the former Kingdom of Portugal.

That title was acquired through lineal descent from one Sir John Moore, who was a hero in the wars of that domain.

In 1911 and at the prime age of 42, Baron Bliss was struck by paralysis and was for the remainder of his days, confined to a hand propelled wheelchair. By the time of his medical misfortune, Baron Bliss had amassed considerable wealth; enough to realize his dream of retiring to a life of seafaring and fishing. After replacing his first boat, which was commandeered for use during World War 1, Baron Bliss said goodbye to his native England and shoved off, making it clear that he never intended to return.

As far as we know, Baron Bliss had no children but was married to Baroness Ethel Alice Bliss, with whom he settled a covenant before leaving and for whom he made a modest provision in his will. According to the Baron, his married life had been a happy

THE BELIZE TIMES

17

seem that many a lightless village could be considered here.

The Baron’s will is quite specific and even stingy in the things for which the money can be used. Neither provision for sports or education are allowed and the Baron was quite clear in stating that there are some one but records suggest otherthings which he believed that wise. There is no record of the government should be responBaroness making any attempt to sible for. He was clear that none contact Bliss or of attending his of his money should be used for funeral. She died in England in any repairs or maintenance of 1945. any projects or building from his After leaving England, Baron fund. He was adamant that for Bliss made his first stop in the such, government should take Bahamas where he acquired up the responsibility. some property seemingly indiInterestingly enough, since cating that he contemplated stay1985 when Leo Bradley Sr. ing there. After some five years, compiled the information from however, he grew to dislike the which I have drawn, no account place and in 1925 shifted rudder of disbursements of this fund for the other end of the Caribbehave been made public. By the an. His next stop was Trinidad but time of Mr. Bradley’s research, after contracting food poisoning quite a few projects had been just a short time after arriving, realized with the interest havhe seemingly concluded that neiing yielded well over a million dollars. The Bliss Institute, the Bliss School of Nursing and at least Baron Bliss was so impressed with the one project in every district had materialized, beauty and hospitality that greeted him in Belize that he decided to leave us the but since that time the purse string seem to bulk of his fortune. At the time of his have been drawn tight.

One wonders if every death, the Baron’s total bequest was ninth of March would valued at a million, eight hundred and not be a good time to give the public informafifty thousand dollars. tion on interest accrued and some account of how these monies are being citizen was to be a trustee of the ther was that the place for him. spent, after all, this was a gift to fund or even an employee of any At that time he decided to heed the people of Belize not to polititrustee. No actual reason was the invitation of an old friend Wilcians. The trustees of the fund, given for this.

The money is not to loughby Bullock, who was then in case you’re wondering are the be used for churches, dance halls Attorney General of Belize. After Governor General, the Attorney or schools; except agricultural or a brief stop in Jamaica, most likeGeneral and the Financial Secvocational.

This seems to leave ly for medical attention, the Sea retary. Keep your eyes open Sir the door wide open for funding King arrived and dropped anchor Colville, keep your eyes open. to projects like CET or ITVET. The in the harbour of Belize on JanuHappy dry season Belize and to money can also be used for caary 14th, 1926. It was love at first the Baron, a heartfelt thank you! nals and light supply and it would sight and the Baron’s heart was On March 11th, 1929, a decision was handed down by a Mr. Justice Rowlatt of the King’s Bench which read, “I must find that it is not made out that this gentleman acquired a British Honduras domicile.”

As a result, at least a quarter of the original amount given to us by Baron Bliss was taken out for British taxes and though outraged at the decision, it was not likely that many in Belize could have been surprised. The matter after all, was argued in England, before an English judge and with English lawyers representing both sides; how else could we have expected that to go?

Now the will left to us by Baron Bliss is a meticulously worded document which is quite specific in its do’s and don’ts. Only the interest is to be spent and no loans can be raised where the money is used as security. An interesting stipulation, and one quite specific in its noting, is that no American

finally at ease.

Although he never set foot on land and was dead less than two months after arriving, Baron Bliss was so impressed with the beauty and hospitality that greeted him in Belize that he decided to leave us the bulk of his fortune. At the time of his death, the Baron’s total bequest was valued at a million, eight hundred and fifty thousand dollars; quite a tidy sum in those days. Before we had quite done counting however, England dropped a bombshell. Although it is specifically stated in the first line of his will that Baron Bliss considered himself domicile in Belize, and while he even wrote a letter to his brother to that effect, the British government decided to contest the matter in court.

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28 FEB

THE BELIZE TIMES

MY PERSPECTIVE

By Dolores Balderamos Garcia

Men in the Equation Belizeans remember keenly the threat of the EBOLA virus and about the refusal by authorities to allow a person suspected of being infected to disembark in our waters. It was a serious thing. Now there is the extremely serious ZIKA virus going around in Latin America, the Caribbean and Central America. Importantly, Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador have all reported confirmed cases of the virus.

This is truly extremely serious business. In West Africa the incidences of Ebola have vastly been reduced, signalling the end of the epidemic there for now. But ZIKA looms large, and it is to be dreaded

and prevented at all costs. Again, the mosquito is the vector, as it is for dengue and chikungunya. Many people do not even know they have been infected, and there is no vaccine.

What is terrifying is that, although science has not positively confirmed this, the causal link between ZIKA virus and microcephaly is ‘strongly suspected.’ Babies being born with small heads and brains that have not sufficiently developed cause intellectual disability.

The World Health Organization has declared ZIKA a global public health emergency, and many countries are on full alert and response. Chairman of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States

(OECS) Rt. Hon. Dr. Keith Mitchell has described a four point agenda: monitoring and surveillance, eradication and protective action, spraying and case management, and a widespread public education campaign. In Jamaica, a catchy reggae Public Service Announcement urges citizens to “Mash up all mosquito breeding site and make sure no stagnant water in sight.”

Many countries’ Health Ministers are encouraging the delay of pregnancy. Belize’s Health Minister doesn’t inspire any confidence, but it is good to see that Director of Health Services Dr. Marvin Manzanero, Vector Control Chief Kim Bautista, and Maternal and Child Health Director Dr. Natalia Largaespada have been on the media urging keen vigilance. Among the countries urging women to delay pregnancy are Brazil, Ecuador, Columbia, Jamaica and El Salvador.

El Salvador’s plea is most drastic – asking women to avoid becoming pregnant for a full two years!

This is where men absolutely need to be PART OF THE EQUATION. Women do not become pregnant by ourselves! We know now that the virus can also be sexually transmitted and hence responsible officials and persons are encouraging the use of condoms. How do you encourage the use of condoms if men are not involved? How can there be coordinated action and

2016 best practice adoption, public awareness, and determined collective action, as Prime Minister Mitchell has said, without the full involvement of men?

Monica Roa, a member of Women’s Link Worldwide Group, has put it this way: “It is incredibly naive to ask women to postpone getting pregnant when 50% of pregnancies are unplanned and across the region sexual violence is prevalent.”

I was intrigued when even before Christmas 2015 the Jamaican Health Minister was urging women not to get pregnant. My immediate thought was ‘Talk to the men too, no sah!!’ We are all aware that the vastly disproportionate share of responsibility for taking care and for contraception is borne by women.

It is time to change this. I think that the extreme threat that this ZIKA virus poses ought to be a wake-up call to us all women and men alike - to pay attention, to share responsibility and to redouble our efforts to reduce male lack of responsibility and the sexual abuse of girls and women.

This region and this world don’t need another baby born with microcephaly. As I said before, this is very serious business, and, yes, I rub it in - men must be a part of the equation!!

Belmopan Mayor threatens to leave 30 families homeless

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Call 650-8429

Text 670-6453

28 FEB

THE BELIZE TIMES

2016

Home Economics Belize - The cost of Fruta Bomba’s Closure

By Richard Harrison February 23, 2016 The papaya industry had its origins with a project funded by the United States. With the assistance of USAID (United States Agency for International Development), a company called Belize Agribusiness Company (BABCO) was created in 1985.

BABCO was successful agronomically but it was not able to set up a lasting marketing chain.

In 1990, a former employee of BABCO who persisted was able to successfully grow the fruits in San Andres in Corozal. Marketing trials were carried out with J. R. Brooks, a marketing company based in Florida. Fruta Bomba was thus established as a subsidiary of Brooks Tropicals in Belize.

Brooks Tropicals produces papaya in Mexico, Belize and Guatemala.

Since then, Belize became the second largest exporter of papaya to the USA and Canada....second only to Mexico, and ahead of Brazil. This is a leadership position in a rapidly growing segment of tropical fruits....in large-value markets....with significant potential for long-term growth.

Papaya is the fourth most important traded fruit in the world... behind banana, mango and pineapple. It only started getting popular over the last two decades, so it has much more to grow.

Unlike Hawaii papaya, Belize papaya is non-genetically modified, being more wholesome and preferred by consumers.

The declared value of papaya exports ranged between US$6.5 million currently to a peak of US$15 million in 2006, before hurricane Keith’s damages to the industry. This accounts for around 3-4% of total exports. While small relative to the total export value, it is not insignificant....especially in a country where exports are falling and imports exploding. Belize has bills to pay....it should be expanding exports, not closing them down.

The industry employed 500 to 1,000 persons directly and indirectly. This is around 1% of the total labor force. While small, relative to the total employed, it is not insignificant....especially in a country where long-term unemployment is around 18%. Belize needs to be creating more jobs....not destroying them.

2009 global exports of papa-

ya was around US$197.2 million (FAOSTAT 2012b), with Belize controlling 11% of the global exports. This is a leadership position that should be developed upon, not squandered.

The principal investor was Brooks Tropicals of the U.S.A., a leader with established distribution tentacles in the lucrative North American market for a wide range of tropical fruits....many of which Belize can produce competitively if the right policies were in place. They should be expanding here, not closing down. Their presence here should be inviting to more industries, not discouraging to them.

The industry was located in the area between Orange Walk and Corozal districts, an area already challenged economically.

This area needs more industries and jobs, not less.

The special-interest economy that prevails here is difficult for anyone to work and reap just rewards for their work....the high tax on fuel, the high taxes on production inputs, the high cost of transportation, the high cost of port and shipping fees, the high political costs...the low investments in agricultural health and development, the low investments in industrial infrastructure....all of these are part and parcel of service to the status-quo, special interest economy, based on politically-driven, discretionary “development incentives”....serving a small minority of persons and their shadow companies....compromising the long-term development of Belize.

Add to these the growing corruption and unfolding, increased risk of not being able to move capital freely due to tightening financial restrictions....and this closing down of Fruta Bomba papaya is just the tip of the iceberg.

Other industries are currently on life-support in the intensivecare-unit.

Where are the business organizations? The unions? The civil societies? The youth? Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition? Who loves Belice enough to stand up and demand the necessary changes?

Richard Harrison is a local businessman and investor in the manufacturing and service industries. Mr. Harrison holds a Masters in Business Administration degree from Lancaster University, United Kingdom. Send comments to harrisonbz@yahoo.com

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28 FEB

THE BELIZE TIMES

BSI/ASR Crop Review - Week 11

2016 For Sale

By Order of the

Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., a company duly registered under the Companies Act, Chapter 250 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition, 2000, and having its registered office at Cor. Albert and Bishop Streets, Belize City, Belize, hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Mortgagee under a Deed of Mortgage made the 29th day of August, 2007, between EDWARD YOUNG of Lord’s Bank, Belize District, Belize of the one part, and SCOTIABANK (BELIZE) LTD., of the other part, and recorded in Deeds Book Vol. 33 of 2007 at Folios 743 – 810, the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd. will at the expiration of two months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the property described in the schedule hereto.

(February 15, 2016 to February 21, 2016) Cane milled – 51,293 tons Total cane milled since start of 2015/2016 crop: 489,241 tons Total cane milled in the same period in 2014/2015 crop: 559,866 tons Difference in this year’s crop: -70,625 tons Sugar produced – 4,836 tons Total sugar produced since start of 2015/2016 crop: 44,161 tons Total sugar produced in the same period in 2014/2015 crop: 68,123 tons

day day

Grinding rate – 7,328 tons of cane per day Average grinding rate since start of 2015/2016 crop – 6,354 tons of cane per Grinding rate in the same period of 2014/2015 crop – 7,271 tons of cane per

All offers to purchase the said property must be made in writing and full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained from the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd. SCHEDULE All that piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 128 containing 465.064 square meters situate in Lord’s Bank Village, Belize District and bounded and described in Minister’s Fiat (Grant) attached to and shown on Plan No. 1234 of 2006 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon.

DATED this 18th day of February, 2016.

Juice purity – 85.76% Average juice purity since start of 2015/2016 crop – 84.19% Juice purity in same period of 2014/2015 crop – 88.35% Mud levels in cane – 4.95% Average mud level in this year’s crop – 4.95% Mud level in same period in 2014/2015 crop – 4.02% Tons Cane per Ton Sugar (TC/TS) – 10.61:1 Average TC/TS since start of 2015/2016 crop – 11.08:1 TC/TS for same period in 2014/2015 crop – 8.22:1 Sugar level in cane – 96.11% Average sugar level since start of 2015/2016 crop – 95.50 % Sugar level in the same period in 2014/2015 crop – 95.32% Factory Time efficiency – 99.49% Factory efficiency since the start of 2015/2016 crop – 94.49% Factory efficiency in the same period in 2014/2015 crop – 97.67% BSI Comments - Factory performance was very good with 51,293 metric tons milled for the week.

- The targeted milling figures for the week were surpassed by over 1,393 metric tons.

- Increased cane supply resulted in an improvement in factory time efficiency.

- The cane price is estimated is based on a Tons of Cane per to Tons of Sugar of 9.5 and to date it is 11.08. Hence, the importance of maintaining efforts to improve cane quality.

Data compiled from Daily and Weekly Factory Reports prepared by BSI.

MUSA & BALDERAMOS LLP 91 North Front Street Belize City Attorney-at-Law for Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd.

For Sale

By Order of the Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., a company duly registered under the Companies Act, Chapter 250 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition, 2000, and having its registered office at Cor. Albert and Bishop Streets, Belize City, Belize, hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Mortgagee under a Deed of Mortgage made the 27th day of April, 2011, between Gregoria Martinez of Big Falls Village, Toledo District, Belize of the one part, and SCOTIABANK (BELIZE) LTD., of the other part, and recorded in Deeds Book Vol. 10 of 2011 at Folios 813 – 880, the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd. will at the expiration of two months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the property described in the schedule hereto.

All offers to purchase the said property must be made in writing and full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained from the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd. SCHEDULE All that piece or parcel of land comprising 0.10.895 acres situate along the Southern Highway, Big Falls Area, Toledo District, Belize TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon.

DATED this 18th day of February, 2016.

MUSA & BALDERAMOS LLP 91 North Front Street Belize City Attorney-at-Law for Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd.

28 FEB

21

THE BELIZE TIMES

2016

The following is a list of nominees for the District Youth Development Council Election to be held on February 29th 2016. Electronic voting will be conducted via the respective Department of Youth Services Offices in your district.

District Youth Development Council list of NOMINEES Stann Creek District

Belize District PRESIDENT

VICE PRESIDENT

SECRETARY

Nominee

Youth Group

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

Tyesha Estrada Micah Goodin Rakeem Dawson Jenifer Pacheco Jocelyn Mejia Kimberly Sotz Jonathon Andino Stafin Duncan Christian Quinto Jair Tun Jaime Burns

Guide Light Production Belize Youth Movement Motivating Youth of Belize Nazarene Peer Helpers Prefect Nazarene High School Interact San Pedro Belize City Belize City Belize City Belize City

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Gabriel Alpuche Dominique Noralez Micaela Chiac Adaly Cartagena Ariza McFarlene Bruce Garbutt Melvin Guzman Melvin Sutherland Cameron Sandiford Henrick Williams

Guide Light Production BFLA’s Advocacy Movement Nazarene High School Creative Arts Group Manatee Club Student Government San Pedro San Pedro Belize City Ladyville Belize City

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Shayanne Dena Stephen Gabb Lillian Hemmans Briseidi Molina Lynese Flowers Aiden Leslie

Guide Light Production Youth Voices Nazarene HS Creative Arts Group San Pedro Youth 4 Change St. John’s College

1. Milva Reyes 2. Sharissa L. Perez

TREASURER PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

1.

2.

3.

4.

Bryan Gabb Lilian Sanchez Renata Samuel Irteza Alif

Interact Club Belize Youth Movement Youth Voices Caye Caulker UB Belize City

Cayo District PRESIDENT

VICE PRESIDENT

SECRETARY

TREASURER

PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

Nominee

Youth Group

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Mystery Furtado Gary Brown Jr. Gem Turner Stephen Diaz Manuel Garcia Karl Montejo Llilian Portillo Ricky Cunil

UB Student Government Camalote Rising Youth Belmopan Active Youth Belize Youth Empowerment for Change St. Ignatius High School Peer Helpers Santa Elena Jaguars Scouts Troop #27 Eden Stars Benque Police Youth Cadet Corp

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Winston Bethran Raven Galvez Iniki Zuniga Peter Williams Elee Diaz Emelsie Madril Breanna Hyde Idalia Juan Shamika Conorquie

Methodist High Climate Change Belize Youth Movement Bmp. Belmopan Active Youth Roteract Club Bmp. Eden High School Student Council St. Ignatius High School Student Council St. Ignatius High School Student Council Eden High School Student Council Astros

1. Randeen Chimilio 2. Josselyn Balona 3. Diandra Edwards

Belmopan Active Youth Alvin L. Young Nazarene High School Peer Helpers St. Ignatius High School Peer Helpers

1.

2.

3.

4.

Chantae Guy Edward Harris Cordia Leslie Jennivie Harris

Belmopan Active Youth Belizean Youth for Road Safety St. Ignatius High School Performing Arts Club Santa Elena Jaguars Scouts Troop #27

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Andrew Trejo Shantel Jacobs Adonnis McDonald Patricia Coy Eustace Conorquie II

Our Lady of Guadalupe Prefects Belize Youth for Road Safety University of Belize Student Government Jr. Youth Spiritual Empowerment Program Astros

Nominee PRESIDENT

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Jarrid Flores Erica Courtney Wade Francis Baltazar Jamall Henry Swaso Rajeem Arzu Elthon Sabal Jr.

VICE PRESIDENT

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Michelle Arthurs Christopher M. Coc Ruth Naomi Virila Dylana Diana Nicholas Gilda Mackenzie Denton Gabourel Antonette Nunez

SECRETARY

1. Kylesha Ciego 2. Martha Casimiro 3. Rosella Coc

TREASURER PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

Youth Group

1. Dianie Munoz 2. Ammar Tyrell Caliz

1. Richardo Pineda 2. Anthonisha Gabriel 3. Dwanye Don Neal

Toledo District Nominee PRESIDENT

Adriana Avilez Melanie Chun

VICE PRESIDENT

Fern Foster Floyd Montero

SECRETARY

Leshaun Sanchez Lisa Augustine

TREASURER

Zalika Garbutt

PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

Alberto Coleman Vaughn King

Youth Group

Orange Walk District Nominee PRESIDENT

1. Ms. Selma Patt 2. Joshua Alexander Carillo 3. Shaquille carpiso

VICE PRESIDENT

1. Joslin Alvarez

SECRETARY

1. Katty Magana

TREASURER PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

Youth Group

1. Ms. Delia Diamini Toledano

1. Ms. Makeda Nefertiti Anderson 2. Mr. Fransico Sosa

Corozal District Nominee PRESIDENT

VICE PRESIDENT SECRETARY

TREASURER

PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

1. Theotisha Hall 2. Damari Tesucum 3. Benigno Lizama

1. Ginelly Novelo 2. Mikael E. Gillharry 3. Dominique Vellos 1. Canaan Iman 2. Priscilla Tillet 3. Immer Campos

1. Neidy Tun 2. Phillip Wade Jr. 3. Herman Sanchez 1. Digna Ramirez 2. Sahjia Tamay

Youth Group

22

THINK ABOUT IT

ASSAD SHOMAN One of the most important discussions on the Guatemalan claim to Belize and what we need to do was held on Friday 19th February 2016.

It was sponsored by, of all people, the lawyers of Belize, AND, the Judges of our Supreme Court. They hold an annual get together each year called the Bench and Bar Conference. The “Bench” is legalese for the Judges and Magistrates because in Court they sit and preside from an elevated bench. The Bar is the next important position in a court. It is where the “learned” lawyers sit and stand as they assist the court in the interest of a lady called justice.

In Belize, that lady is weak and weary and her measuring scales appear a bit unbalanced.

The blind-fold over her eyes looks torn and tattered and she may be peeping at the persons before her, which she should never do. Never.

But alas! This is broken Belize.

Big respect is due to the President, Jackie Marshalleck and Executive of the Bar Association or what’s left of it after the unnecessary and petty attacks from the Prime Minister who has succeeded in mortally wounding an organization that had the potential to help educate Belizeans, although it never did.

Big respect is also due to the Chief Justice and Judges of our Supreme Court who agreed to be fully part of such a vital forum tackling a national issue with existential implications.

All the Judges attended. No Magistrate was present except the Chief Magistrate. The Director of Public Prosecutions, Attorney General, Four Crown Counsels: Javier Chan, Sabita Maharagh, Rene Montero, and Landi Burns were there. So were Simeon Sampson, Edwin Flowers, Phillip Zuniga, Fred Lumor, Michael Young, Anthony Sylvestre Jr., Godfrey Smith, Magali Marin Young, Michel Chebat, Andrew Marshalleck, Dolores Balderamos Garcia, Melissa Mahler, Ashanti Martin-Arthurs, Leslie Hamilton, G. Usher, Roberta Magnus Usher. Also, former Prime Minister Said Musa, and the US Ambassador.

There were presentations by Lisa Shoman, Eamon Courtney, David Gibson, Godfrey Smith, Dr. Herman Byrd, Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington, with moderators Derek Courtney, Fred Lumor, Cheryl Lynn Vidal, and Priscilla Banner.

Garth Schofield, a lawyer from the Permanent Court of International Arbitration (P.C.A.) spoke on the topic-”If the Answer is no to the ICJ, then PCA?” The Head of Belize’s Army, Brigadier General David Jones gave a sober assessment of the Sarstoon situation.

But the star of the conference was undoubtedly Assad Shoman whose topic was “2000: A Guatemalan Odyssey. Hasta Cuando?”

Assad’s presentation, if it was videoed, needs to be available to students and the general public. He has historic information as well as his unique experience from being involved in the most important of the negotiations. This must become a part of our collective knowledge on what is going on with Guatemala’s claim to our country and the way forward.

Equally important are the challenges that Assad put squarely to the lawyers at the lecture and to Belizeans on a whole. No one can ever accuse Assad Shoman of being reluctant to speak his mind, regardless of who is offended.

He put it this way. Are you lawyers in the Bar doing enough? You have to put in work. You have to do so with a sense of urgency. You must be willing to make sacrifices to protect Belize. To someone looking in from outside-You all appear to be complacent in the face of real and present danger.

He said the Guatemalan claim must be accepted and be treated as a national issue and that every one of us has a duty to do our part.

He also said the present government must keep each of us Belizeans informed of everything going on with the Guatemalan issue. Ev-

28 FEB

THE BELIZE TIMES

erything.

Assad Shoman had lots more important observations to share with Belizeans, including what is the situation with the Maritime Areas Law, our piece of sea that we agreed to allow Guatemala to use and where do we go from here as the Guatemalan government will start to behave more aggressive and threatening to us.

Assad Shoman’s presentation to the Judges and lawyers on Friday morning must be made available to Belizeans through the local radio and television stations. Ambassador Stuart Leslie, who is point man at the Foreign Affairs Ministry, needs to take on this responsibility. Under the broadcasting law, local television must provide a portion of their air-time to local educational issues.

Assad issued a nine-point challenge to us, to government and the country which require public discussion, consensus and a plan of action on the way forward.

THERE WILL BE SHOOTINGS A disturbing feature of Friday morning’s presentations was the repeated warning by the Head of the BDF-Brigadier General David Jones.

In a candid presentation, complete with visuals, Commander Jones stated his informed assessment that if a resolution is not arrived at soon there will be armed conflict between the armed forces of Guatemala and Belize. He stated it this way “There is a huge potential for conflict....if something is not done in the Sarstoon River soon, there is potential for exchange of gunfire.”

He also stated “There is a need for a protocol for Sarstoon, even if it is just military to military.”

Again he told the distinguished gathering “If there is no resolution, I believe someday, shortly, there will be an exchange of gun fire.”

JAMAICA, JAH-MEK-YAH Jamaicans, the Caribbean’s most dynamic people, are having their general elections on 25 February. The two major parties which have alternated in government since Independence in 1962 are the People’s National Party (PNP) and the Jamaica Labor Party (JLP).

The PNP, headed by the popular Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller, is projected to remain in office.

But check this out. Jamaica has a population of around 3 million persons. Its voters’ list is 1.8 million voters. There are 63 constituencies.

Belize has a population of just over 300 thousands. Its voters’ list is just under 200 thousand voters. AND our country has 31 constituencies. Makes no sense.

Belize has too much constituencies. Belize City alone which should have no more than 6, has 10 constituencies. Belize District has 13.

Presently, the ruling party has every one who won at the last election as a government Minister. In addition several other cronies have been appointed Ministers. The total cost to the over-burdened taxpayers is millions upon millions of dollars that are vitally needed to help poor people, young people, students, single mothers and vulnerable citizen, all of whom are suffering in our country.

OBAMA TO HAVANA President Obama is to visit Cuba in the next few weeks. This represents a huge development in the relationship between capitalist America and socialist Cuba. It also represents a bit of a set-back for Belize and the Caribbean countries.

American capitalists are licking their choppers to get into Cuba where money making opportunities are multitudinous. One manufacturing company already has the green light to start making tractors. Its small company can produce one thousand tractors per year. That’s 990 more

than we would use.

BOARD BASE At St. Michael’s College (a former small Anglican college on Euphrates Avenue which educated the present Prime Minister, the former Prime Minister, the present Foreign Minister and many other public officials), Colville Young (now Governor General) used to teach music, literature and English language.

His students had to stand poised in the large wooden Assembly Hall and sing their hearts out to impress their teacher. Many of those songs were classics and poetic and many of those students will go into the beyond with the words in their cosmic memories. “Mine Eyes Have Seen The Glory of the Coming of The Lord (Battle Hymn of the Republic). “The Vicer of Bray” and so on.

Let’s cut to the chase. The bogus base being built at Barranco Village by government is made of board. Yes, board, wood, timber, plywood, imported pine.

Belize is the only country in the world to build a military base out of board. What a joke!

What clowns our government has made of us.

The nation is a laughing stock. A poppy show.

No wonder the Guatemalan soldiers laugh out loud when they patrol in our side of the Sarstoon River, and take pictures of our board base.

The British military have a song they sing as their marching song. It was sung at St. Michael’s. It carries the words, “heart of oak are our ships, heart of oaks are our men. We always are ready, steady boys, steady; we will fight and we will beat them again, and again.”

Maybe Lord Rhaburn, Supa G, Kenny Morgan Tanya Carter, Mr. Program or the GrandMaster can come up with a wooden song.

“Heart of wood is our base, hard as wood in our place; steady boys, steady, they might shoot us through the board walls in our face”.

ANOTHER ONE BITE DUST Mr. Program was put in jail.

Program is one of Belize’s top artists.

What distinguishes him is the unique voice he is blessed to possess. His number one song is “Nuff A Dem Noh Want To See I Rise.”

Program ran into a small problem with a police. As is the norm in the streets, the Police charged him for assault. Program was not present for his trial. As is usual, on hearing only one side the court found him guilty and fined him.

Not knowing the results of the trial, Program could not pay. Within weeks the police got one of those go straight to jail warrant.

Program was quickly located, arrested and thrown in jail.

Had there been a caring Institute for artists or a legitimate Ambassador for music who is promoting our talented young people, Program could have been in a recording studio rather than the path of aggressive, anti- police officers behaviour.

But, this is Belize, artists and talented people don’t count. How many Bob Marleys and Beyonces are struggling out here in the ranks of sufferers, unable to develop, improve and make a living from the talent God gave them? While millions of dollars are squandered all over the place.

SHARK SHOCKER Last week, a young man hustling to feed himself and his family was lucky to pull in a huge tarpon fish. It was a lucky week for he had earlier pulled in a four feet alligator. This was in front of the park at Buttonwood Bay. Both catch were sold for food.

He probably doesn’t know Tarpon are protected species. We don’t know if alligators, the fresh water version and the salt water ones, are protected.

Neither do we know if sharks are protected. We should (know) and they should be (protected).

Months ago we reported what fishermen told us. That they came across two boats in our southern waters with several drums of shark fins. Drums, 55 gallon plastic drums.

2016 While the Fisheries Department does not have the resources, boats, fuel, personnel to protect our marine resources; the Coast Guard is bulging with excess boats and engines and hundreds of highly trained personnel. All in the service of the Empire fighting drugs while our seas are being depleted.

Now come photos, sickening photographs of dozens of different species of sharks trapped in gill nets and slaughtered for foreign consumption. The report is that these sharks were trapped in the vicinity of Half Moon Caye and the Blue Hole. Pristine areas which are supposedly conservation sites and enjoy special protection.

The images are shocking. Disturbing.

Sharks are the most efficient predators in the sea. They didn’t make themselves. God must have made them for a purpose.

We join Oceana’s Janelle Chanona and all those Belizeans who are outraged over this latest shark incident. We beg of this smitten government to ban gill nets, to declare sharks and alligators protected species and to instruct the Coast Guard to spend half their time protecting our marine resources.

33 SORRY 34 The crookedness suspected to be associated with the boledo and lottery bubbled to the surface a few days ago.

Listen to this. The boledo is drawn around 9:00 p.m. in public view at the former Treasury Department which is now the Magistrate Courts in Belize City.

At the recent “drawing” of the boledo the number 3 and then another 3 were “drawn”. So the winning number, announced was 33. Moments later an announcement was made that the winning number is 34. Just like that.

Our reliable source, who was present, and whose reports we cross-checked,, told us one other day the officials started the draw and after two numbers were already taken out, shown to the supervisors and the numbers called out, balls were put back in the barrel and the draw started over again.

Before the arrival of this new slick set of gangsters in government, boledo and lottery were under the control of the public service and all monies went to the nation’s revenues and checked by the Auditor General.

The Chinese merchants ripped off the system and found a way around paying taxes by not using the official boledo tickets. They wrote numbers on pieces of papers given to customers. This organized theft and fraud, which was also a crime, was condoned for years by the system.

Then it got worse. In 2008 the UDP Minister of Finance appointed a “committee” headed

by Godwin Hulse, (who later became a Minister). Lo and behold, the boledo and lottery were jacked out of the control of the public service and given to a Chinese merchant, Brads at Farmers Market. A family member of the Prime Minister is said to be the real owner. Millions of dollars jacked just like that.

We did write about sharks, didn’t we?

Sharks!

JEHOVAH IN CREOLE The Buttonwood Bay team of Jehovah Witnesses has done an extraordinary thing. They are circulating a Jehovah pamphlet which is written in creole or kriol. It is titled “Hoo Di Kanchrol Dis Werl?” Which seems to be “Who is controlling this world?”

Jehovah Witnesses for years walk the streets and try to bring the word of God and their publications to neighborhoods where they are shunned and unwelcome.

But they keep on walking and patiently talking to the heathen and the hard-hearted. Saving sinners is a hard mission.

MEASLY 5 PERCENT Social Security Board has been in the news lately, mainly in a negative light for being facey enough to approve a loan of 12 million dollars to a foreign investor named Santander.

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2016

THINK ABOUT IT

Continued from page 22

Santander has now publicly refused to take the loan in the face of public outrage. Social Security Board did not have the sensitivity to withdraw the loan decision. Public opinion does not really bother them, it seems.

We don’t believe in coincidence. So on hearing the news from the Chairman of SSB that they, with government’s agreement, have decided to increase benefits to pensioners, we wondered why.

First the timing is suspect. The national budget is scheduled to be tabled in the National Assembly in three to four weeks. So what was the reason to release the 5 percent information?

Secondly, the Leaders of 15 Caribbean countries and their top level advisers are in Belize for a meeting.

To have the airwaves, and the media lashing out at government’s abuse of social security monies would be an embarrassment. Therefore the information is to stifle the criticism.

The small increase of 5 percent to pensioners is insulting. In fact it cannot help pensioners against the high cost of fuel and high cost of living. The 5 percent is to be introduced against another chance to be taken of Belizeans, whereby the so-called wage band will be dramatically increased from around $300 to $500 thereby bringing in huge revenues to SSB. The hard- working employees and overburdened employers are to be milked so the politicians can have access to more SSB monies to squander and waste.

RICE AGAIN There is an issue in the rice controversy that should not be allowed to go under the radar.

Mr. Jack Charles is publicly claiming that he sent rice samples to be tested and the tests show an unacceptable level of toxic chemicals called aflatoxin.

This is a very disturbing development and the fact that Mr. Charles and the government were locked in a controversy must not cloud this issue.

It is the duty of those public officers to see that the rice being consumed by Belizeans is as healthy as is humanly possible.

We are not to be distracted by the local rice cartel special interests and the politicians they have in their pockets. Nor are we to be distracted with the special interest of businessman Jack Charles. As consumers we have a right to know everything about what we are, in essence, being forced to eat from the rice growers and sellers.

Our people have been facing all kinds of increase in cancers, high blood pressure, dis-ya pressure and datdeh pressure.

Tighten up, and do the right thing.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

FRUTA BOMBA FIRES 123 WORKERS AS COMPANY CLOSES Corozal District, February 19, 2016 Life just got drastically harder for one hundred and twenty three workers who received the terrible news on Friday, February 19th that they no longer had jobs at Fruta Bomba Limited in the Corozal District.

A week before, company executives confirmed that they will be closing their papaya farming and exporting operations in Belize due to unsustainable operational costs and little help from the Government. The company indicated that they would close in six months, and that its 250 employees would have to look elsewhere for jobs.

The 123 workers terminated on Friday represent mostly field workers.

In interviews this week, the clueless Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture Gaspar Vega suggested that the fired workers could probably find jobs in the sugar industry. Vega should know that the sugar industry is also barely surviving. How will 123 workers find jobs in an industry which almost closed down two years ago because of financial troubles?

It must be noted that Vega offered no further ideas about where the people under distress and a lot of stress could find new jobs. He and the clueless Barrow Administration Cabinet are sitting ducks as Belize falls apart.

Fruta Bomba says they expect to lay off about 80% of their staff in the next days.

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICES Notice is hereby given that SHARLETT SHARON MIGUEL is applying for a renewal for a Malt and Cider Liquor License to be operated at “Mayan Crystal Skull I”, situated at 29 ½ Miles Old Northern Highway, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that SHARLETT SHARON MIGUEL is applying for a renewal for a Malt and Cider Liquor License to be operated at “Mayan Crystal Skull II”, situated at 29 ½ Miles Old Northern Highway, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that EDGAR A. WOODEYE is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “The Jerk Shack”, situated at 140 East Collet Canal, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Fuel prices to increase

Belize City, February 24, 2016 A late-afternoon press release from the Government of Belize has indicated that fuel price are once more in the rise.

The release indicates that the Government has adjusted its tax structure to reflect international costs for crude oil imports.

As a result, GOB is increasing its import

duties for Premium Gasoline by 40 cents, Regular Gasoline by 30 cents and Diesel by $80 cents.

GOB will also increase the price of fuel at the pumps for Regular and Diesel fuel. Regular is increasing from $7.61 per gallon to $7.98, while Diesel will increase from $6.52 to $7.52. Premium fuel will dip from $9.30 per gallon to $8.99 per gallon.

CUSTOMS SHORT OF RESOURCES We are not surprised to hear the new Comptroller of customs say that the customs department is hampered by a shortage of human resources as well as other resources, like equipment.

Can someone tell us how in God’s name, with a budget of one billion dollars in revenues and a huge bubby of 300 million dollars from Petro Caribe the government could not provide a dozen new customs officers per year.

And guess who is the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Customs.

Did Kareem say the “mess is yet to come”?

GOOD GOD AND EVIL GOD

FOR EGOISTS “There is only one thing in the world worse than being talked about, and that is not being talked about.”

Oscar Wilde.

CARTOON

Among the 35 poems and parables in this volume are “How I Became a Madman,” “The Two Hermits,” “The Wise Dog,” “The Good God and the Evil God,” “Night and the Madman,” “The Three Ants,” “When My Sorrow Was Born,” “ And When My Joy Was Born,” and many more. The book includes several illustrations by the author, whose exquisite drawings are reminiscent of Rodin and the best of Blake.

The above is from “The Madman” the “first” publication of the great Lebanese poet, Kahlil Gibran, whose other book, “The Prophet”, sold more than any other book in the 20th Century except the Bible.

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28 FEB

2016