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The Belize Times
Established 1957
02 JUNE 2013
| ISSUE NO: 4847
The Truth Shall Make You Free
www.belizetimes.bz
|
$1.00
Audrey quits
L to R - Oceana advocates, Morgan Freeman, Audrey Matura-Shepherd and Ted Danson
Oceana Vice President
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BTIA rejects Crawl Caye proposal Belize City, May 30, 2013 The Belize Tourism Industry Association, which represents tourism stakeholders countrywide, has declared their opposition to a proposed cruise port project in Southern Belize, and urged Cabinet to follow their direction. High ranking UDPs who have been awarded influential
posts in the Barrow Administration are using their connections to push through a project with Norwegian Cruise Lines to build a cruise port on Crawl Caye. The proposal is not a popular one. Tourism stakeholders say the project is a threat to the environment and Belize’s tourism product. Crawl Caye is located inside the Southwater
Caye Marine Reserve which is a World Heritage site. The Caye is also near the Barrier Reef, a heritage which is constantly under threat from the Barrow Administration. To build a cruise port for large ships would require clearing and dredging which would seriously damage the mangrove environment.
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Faber assaults Police Officer Poaching threatens Chiquibul Forest Defeated Chairman Patrick Faber points menacingly at police officer
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An illegal Guatemalan was found with these crested guans. Photo by FCD
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OPINION OUT
On Noh Mul destruction
KHMH hazard!
!
Dear residents of the Caribbean Shores and Freetown areas as well as businesses and schools in the immediate vicinity of the KHMH. For several months I have been monitoring with great concern several unexplained illnesses that are caused by viruses which affect students from the Belize Elementary School, Belize High School, Nazarene High, Pallotti High School, All Saints and St. Joseph Primary School. I have noticed that since November of 2012 the KHMH has been using the incinerator to burn highly infectious and hazardous waste on their compound. It’s in my view that the incinerator emits virus and bacteria that could leave traces in the building and can even be transmitted from person to person. This must be of great concern to since several restaurants operate in the vicinity of the hospital. I have taken the responsibility of contacting members of the KHMH board, the media and public health but so far to no avail. It’s an opportune time to closer examine the situation especially since the matter of the unexplained bacteria at the intensive care unit of the hospital has claimed the lives of 12 infants in 20 days. This is a matter of tremendous concern and I am asking for your support in signing this petition so that we can present it to the KHMH board to discourage them from exposing our health to such danger and life threatening risk. The risk remains the same whether KHMH burns the waste at night as opposed to the day. The bottom line is that incinerating infectious and hazardous waste should not be carried out in highly populated and residential areas. Residents, do you believe that our future health should be determined by the KHMH. Let’s change what we can, support the fight for a healthier environment to live in. Signed, Concerned citizen
31 May
Dear editor, It is an international scandal. Belize is once again being treated like a private property by certain party members of the UDP. Enough is enough, Belize has spent years build an international reputation for its unique cultural heritage and its protection of natural resources. Both of these are key to our economic well being over the long term. This is not the first time members of the UDP organization have run over the basic ethics and standards of stewardship expected of any member of society and certainly the leadership of Belize. It is sad day for Belize and a sad day for our future. A small country such as Belize is, cannot afford such disregard for the health and protection of the very attractions that bring tourist dollars to our shores and make the jewel shine. Signed: D. McHenry
Kudos to PUP on progressive vision
!
Dear Editor A viable economy is the bedrock of development, growth, stability and well being of all nations including Belize. So in addition to its True Development agenda, the PUPs must adopt an agenda to allow the implementation of 20 more new commercial banks, ten more competitive sugar factories, 20 food/agricultural businesses, 30 more oil prospecting companies, as many citrus producers as normal profits will sustain, 50 cheese making factories, expansion of cattle market, get Belizeans to return to the retail merchandizing business and the daily boledo business, and to encourage development of gold, lead, and other natural resources to include fishing production and tourism activities. Belizeans must be the owners of these income producing assets or just die in face of our paternal attitude towards foreigners. We must also change, add to our laws to administer these new industries and we don’t need foreign time-servers to inject into our legal system. The economy is the most important vehicle in our fragile existence. So mote it be! Signed. Ricky M.
weather 1 Jun
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2013
GOB stay application fails
!
LOCAL
02 JUN
THE BELIZE TIMES
264 Mar Jun
Court adjourns hearing for next week
Chief Justice Kenneth A. Benjamin
Denys Barrow
Belize City, May 28, 2013 The injunction issued April 16th, 2013 by Supreme Court Justice Oswell Legall remains in effect as the application to lift the injunction was not heard today. Oceana in Belize, along with Co-Claimants Citizen Organized for Liberty & Action (COLA) & the Coalition to Save our Natural Heritage, won a historic legal victory when Justice Legal delivered his judgment in Claim #810 of 2011. The judgment declared all six offshore Productions Sharing Agreements (PSAs) “unlawful, null and void.” Judge Legall furthermore granted “an injunction restraining the defendant, servants and agent from carrying out the provisions of the PSAs. Shortly after its loss in court, the Government stated its intention of appeal the decision. At the behest of Princess Petroleum Belize Limited and Providence Energy Belize Limited government applied for a stay of execution of the injunction. The hearing of that application started before the Chief Justice today. However, Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin adjourned the hearing until next Tuesday, June 4th, 2013 at 10:30am to allow more time to review the submissions made by Government’s lawyers Denys Barrow, SC and his daughter Naima Barrow as well as the counter submissions made by Oceana and its Co-Claimants, arguing that the injunction remains in force until the appeal is heard by the Belize Court of Appeal. “Among other reasons, we feel Government’s application
for stay should fail because: a stay would deny the very effect of the judgment and cause an unlawful situation to remain in force; the evidence in support of the application for stay fails to approach anything near credible evidence of ruination, irremediably or irreparable harm that would justify departure from the general rule that a successful party would not be deprived of the fruits of his judgment; and the appeal has no prospect of success,” stated Oceana Vice President as she brief the media after today’s hearing. Senior Counsel Eamon Courtenay stood in for Oceana’s Counsel Godfrey Smith, SC at this morning’s hearing, Senior Counsel Antoinette Moore made her first appearance on behalf of the Coalition.
27 Mar Jun 6 5Feb
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The Belize Times
Established 1957
14 APR 2013
|
ISSUE NO: 4840
The Truth Shall Make You Free
www.belizetimes.bz
|
$1.00
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
Roberto Peyrefitte Printed and Published By The Belize Times Press Ltd. Tel: 671-8385 #3 Queen Street P.O. BOX 506 Belize City, Belize
Email: belizetimesadvertisement@yahoo.com
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02 JUN
2013
THE BELIZE TIMES
03 3
UDP out of order! Belize City, May 29, 2013 Every week, the UDP has been abusing their power to intimidate voters in the village council elections. This past Sunday, UDP big wigs flocked to Hattieville to bully voters. Patrick Faber, Sedi Elrington and Edmond Castro were joined by UDP lackeys Kenworth Tillett, defeated Deputy Chairman candidate Roosevelt Blades, defeated candidate Lee Mark Chang, Education employee Vernon, rabid mascot Brian “Yellowman” Audinette, and UDP Councillors Eric Chang and Dean Samuels all turned out to pressure voters. As expected, the UDP has politicized the village council elections, injecting their political
agenda into the community process. The elections are no longer about ensuring better leadership in their communities, but about giving the UDP more power and control. That’s all that matters to them. The UDP is also abusing Government resources to carry out their agenda. On Sunday in Hattieville, the UDP lackeys were driving around a Ministry of Education Toyota Hilux fuelled by tax payers’ money, to transport voters to the polls. The vehicle’s license plates were removed to conceal its origin. The UDP is totally out of order and it is only the village council. If not reined in, their terror tactics will only get worse.
UDP abusing Government resources and intimidating voters at village council elections
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THE BELIZE TIMES
Audrey quits Oceana Vice President Oceana’s Washington office, in a letter in which he sought “corrective measures”. We understand that Matura-Shepherd, who is a columnist in the Amandala newspaper, was told by her Oceana superiors that if she wanted to keep her job, she could continue writing on issues other than the UNIBAM matter. Matura-Shepherd did not take the re-
Belize City, May 30, 2013 The news that Audrey Matura-Shepherd has quit as Vice-President of Oceana stunned Belize. At a press conference held on Thursday afternoon, Matura-Shepherd’s admitted that the resignation had to do with a clash between her and supporters of Caleb Orozco’s UNIBAM, after she expressed concerns about possible consequences of UNIBAM’s constitutional challenge. Matura-Shepherd’s comments were posted on her personal Facebook page, and in it, she asked whether since section 53 of the criminal act (section being challenged by UNIBAM) deals with sodomy as well as acts considered “unnatural” such as bestiality, she wondered whether another group such as one supporting bestiality may also seek to affirm their status in society. It is believed that pro-UNIBAM individuals took offense at the comments and launched a campaign against Matura-Shepherd. One individual, only known by name as Kenrick Raymark Theus Diaz, took the matter as far as
Belmopan Coalition of Churches outraged at new gender policy May 30, 2013 In our love for God, for Belize, and for all Belizeans, we are saddened, shocked and outraged at the Revised Gender Policy 2013, the inclusion of “sexual orientation” and the homosexual agenda, and the secrecy of “selective consultation” surrounding a Policy affecting every Belizean. We therefore highly recommend the complete removal of the Revised Gender Policy 2013, the amending and clear defining of “gender” (MALE & FEMALE) in a new policy, the removal of sexual orientation, and we call for a proper process of public, transparent consultation on ALL matters of important national interests. Belmopan Coalition of Churches represents over forty Church leaders.
striction lightly. In a statement to the media, issued prior to the conference, Matura-Shepherd said she will now pursue her “legal career… while balancing family obligations”. Matura-Shepherd thanked Oceana supporters for their commitment to their work, “You have amazed me with your energy and passion and
02 JUN
2013
unwavering resolve to unite and engage on these issues we present to you. Please keep up the good fight. I am not going away, I love Belize and will continue to be an activist and community leader”. In accepting the resignation letter, Oceana’s Chief Executive Officer Andy Sharpless said it will be difficult to replace Matura-Shepherd. “We will now look for a new leader in Belize. We have big shoes to fill but are confident that we can find a new local leader as smart, brave and determined as Audrey. We look forward to working with Audrey to effect a smooth transition to new local leadership,” he wrote. Matura-Shepherd’s resignation takes effect on August 22, 2013.
02 JUN
2013
THE BELIZE TIMES
05 5
EDITORIAL
TO HAVE OR TO HAVE NOT
D
oes inequality really need to be tackled? The twin forces of globalization and technical innovation have actually narrowed inequality globally, as poorer countries catch up with richer ones. But within many countries especially in the poor developing world, including Belize, income gaps have widened. In 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. Large sums of money get siphoned from the Barrow/state-owned enterprises: Social Security and B.T.L. to well-connected insiders who are awarded fat inflated contracts ostensibly to carry out infrastructural projects. 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 Harmonyville but right across the country from Corozal to Toledo. 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. It is however by no means confined to these two. The Cabinet members take their cue from them. Some CEO’s have been thoroughly infected with this disease of taking care of their own. The entire system of public service has become dysfunctional and corrupted.
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 UGP henchmen. The teachers and members of the PSU have been cowed into submission by lies and false promises. Atrocities are committed. A historic Mayan site at Noh Mul has been bulldozed and desecrated by a well known UDP candidate in the last election, pastor now turned Vega-designated special road contractor. This abomination took place weeks ago earning for Belize the condemnation of Belizeans from all walks of life as well as the international community. And yet, not a word from the Prime Minister. When Mr. Barrow’s Cabinet does speak it is to excuse the Deputy Prime Minister who awards his brother the exclusive lucrative contract to export to China the priceless rosewood pillaged from the forest in Toledo. 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. Nowhere else in the world would 12 innocent babies die in a public hospital neo-natal unit, 7 of them confirmed dying from a bacterial infection contracted inside the unit, and the Minister of Health and his fawning CEO of health still sit comfortably in their air-conditioned offices. They should be made to resign, if not fired. “Captain”, sings the Calypsonian, “the ship is sinking”. But Barrow is not on deck. He is on some beach in Miami Florida.
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THE BELIZE TIMES
02 JUN
2013
Poaching threatens Chiquibul Forest May 29, 2013 From the month of October to March 2013 FCD’s research team was actively involved in studying the effects of poaching on game species in the Chiquibul Forest. The four man team conducted its research along 12 transects in areas including the Caracol Archaeological Reserve, covering a total of 384 km. This study was aimed at determining the diversity of terrestrial games species; calculating the relative abundance by species for each game species recorded and to evaluate the impact of illegal hunting on the relative abundance of target species. A total of 1,022 individuals of 24 different species were recorded where the most abundant species were squirrels, quash, collared peccary, crested guans, and keel billed toucans. The study reveals that abundance of game species from
the western border to the interior of the study area was even, meaning that more than likely game species are targeted throughout the entire Chiquibul forest, and are impacted by poaching independent of how far these are from the border. It is also safe to conclude that hunters have been targeting large bodied species, leading to a severe reduction on abundance of targeted species and have begun to target smaller individ-
uals as well as non-traditional game species such as the keel billed toucan. The team did not record any sightings of white-lipped peccary, confirming the assumption that the species has become locally extinct from the Chiquibul Forest, since it is a species favored by hunters. Guatemalan xateros and poachers have been penetrating deeper and deeper into Belizean wilderness areas and they pose the highest
threat to the population of species. Poaching is fast becoming a lucrative activity not only for subsistence but for commercial purposes. This is confirmed through records made of Guatemalan nationals being detained with up to 15 game birds. FCD is aware that poaching has been increasing over the years due to an increase of the human footprint as a result of an increased xate extraction, milpa farming and illegal logging caused by Guatemalan communities located nearby the western flank of the Chiquibul forest. To address this problem, FCD recommends the increase of enforcement elements that can counteract the illegal xate extraction, expansion of the human footprint and illegal logging. Likewise, it is critical that all pertinent regulatory agencies be more proactive in processing individuals successfully in court. The research was made possible through the financial support of the PACT Foundation.
02 JUN
07 7
THE BELIZE TIMES
2013
PUP Leader’s address to Cane Farmers on Cane Farmer’s Day Orange Walk Town, May 31st, 2013 Today, I am here to honor you and to pay my respects to each and every one of you for your contribution to Belize’s development thru this very important industry. Allow me to congratulate all of you on another successful Sugar Cane Crop. Your hard work, perseverance and dedication have once again been rewarded. My report as of May 25th, which was Crop Day 175, indicates that cane farmers have delivered One Million Sixty Thousand Two Hundred and Fifty Six Tons of Sugar Cane, which represents a 47,000 ton increase over the same period last year. Similarly, Sugar Production has already surpassed last year’s one hundred and fourteen thousand five hundred and thirty six tons (114,536). And while these increases in delivery and production are notable, what the Industry will perhaps be most proud of is the consistent and meaningful improve-
ments in Crop Quality. Once again the TC/ TS Ratio has improved moving from 9.29 last year to 9.14 this year. This improving Crop Quality, above all else, represents our greatest hope for the future of our industry. This we know could not have been possible without a collective sense of unity and direction among those present here today. It is that spirit and sense of purpose that has allowed Belize to survive the many serious challenges facing the Sugar Industry. It has not been easy. • The 36% European Union (E.U.) Price Cut. • The Natural Disasters. • The Frog Hopper outbreak. • The Rising Cost of Diesel which reached a high of
$11.15 per gallon. • The dramatic increases in the Cost of Fertilizer and Herbicides. • The ill-fated attempt to implement Core – Sampling which led to unrest and the tragic death of Atanacio Guiterrez. Despite these challenges, you have not only survived, you have grown and prospered. Throughout it all your deep commitment to your families, your communities, your industry and your country, has remained strong and certain.
In September of 2012, B.S.I.’s Majority Shares were transferred to A.S.R. It is our Party’s hope that this new partnership will be beneficial to all involved not only in the short term but over the long term. If the industry is to continue to grow, we must all share in that growth and the revenues generated from that growth must be equitably and fairly distributed among the stakeholders in the industry. We are aware of A.S.R. and B.S.I.’s ambitious plans to expand sugar cane milling activity to 1.8 Million tons over the next five years in order to increase sugar cane production. We support this plan, but in doing so the People’s United Party expresses its full and unwavering solidarity with the B.S.C.F.A. in its commitment to defend and support the rights of small cane producers to a fair livelihood through their continued registration in
the Cane Farmer Registry by the Sugar Cane Production Committee (S.C.P.C.). We join with the Association in calling on the S.C.P.C. and the Sugar Industry Control Board (S.I.C.B.) to fully respect the Sugar Industry Act and to exercise due diligence when registering new cane farmers. The People’s United Party has long enjoyed a strong, respectful relationship with our brothers and sisters in the Sugar Industry. As long as your cause remains true and just, we will always stand with you and fight for you. We know that you continue to face many challenges but we have every confidence in your vision and commitment to the future of the Sugar Industry. Today, we renew that confidence and pledge our support for you in the work ahead. May God continue to guide you and bless each of you.
BY ORDER OF CHARGEE NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SELL HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED a statutory body formed and registered under the Credit Union Act, Chapter 314 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2000, and whose registered office is situated at No. 1 Hyde’s Lane, Belize City, Belize District hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Chargee under and by virtue of a Charge registered at the Land Registry between those hereinafter named and the said Holy Redeemer Credit Union Limited. HRCU will at the expiration of two months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the property described in the Schedule below. ALL offers to purchase the said property must be made in writing to HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED from whom full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained.
SCHEDULE ALL THAT piece or parcel of land being Block 42, Parcel 578 situate in the Punta Gorda Registration Section, the freehold property of LUANA HINES, surety for GLENFORD HINES DATED the 21st day of May, 2013 HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED 1 HYDE’S LANE, BELIZE CITY, BELIZE Phone: (501) 224-5644 Fax: (501) 223-0738
NOTICE TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC THIS IS TO ADVISE YOU THAT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE BELIZE TELECOMMUNICATIONS ACT OF 2002, SI 110 OF 2002 THAT SPEEDNET COMMUNICATIONS LIMITED OF 2 ½ MILES NORTHERN HIGHWAY, BELIZE CITY HAS APPLIED TO THE PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION FOR THE FREQUENCY SPECTRUM AUTHORIZATION TO OPERATE &/OR PROVIDE MOBILE SERVICES THROUGHOUT THE COUNTRY OF BELIZE. LOCATION Countrywide
FREQUENCY Uplink Downlink 1710 – 1730 MHz 2110 – 2130 MHz
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02 JUN
THE BELIZE TIMES
2013
High School’s best and brightest Part II: SJC, Wesley College and Gwen Lizarraga High By Alton F. Humes (Freelance Reporter) BELIZE CITY, Tuesday, May 28th, 2013
The office of St. John’s College High School provided the statistics via phone to us last week Friday. There will be huge graduations across the High School, Sixth Form/Junior College and the Extension Division. Extension which will see 64 students graduate across a range of programs and the Junior College will pass out 250 students across several Associate Degree Programs. But since it is only the high school that we are dealing with, we’ll start there. Of 117 student-candidates across four 4th Forms, 104 will graduate on Sunday, June 9th, 2013 at the SJC Gymnasium on Princess Margaret Drive. [The High School ceremony will be at 3:00 p.m. while the Junior College ceremony is in the morning at 9:00 a.m.] The Valedictorian is Justyn Craig, and the Salutatorian is Luis Aleman. The venerable Methodist high school Wesley College will also have another impressive list of graduates to add to their centuries-old tally. According to Principal Mrs. Brenda Armstrong, 135 of the 147 students (across five 4th forms)
will be graduating on Wednesday, June 12th, 2013 at a ceremony to be held at the Princess Hotel and Casino. Leading this class of 2013 will be Xiomi Gutierrez (Valedictorian) and Kent Young (Salutatorian). The BELIZE TIMES managed to speak with the Valedictorian and Salutatorian on Tuesday afternoon. Xiomi is a Business student with a Science minor, while Kent is a Science student. Both will attend St. John’s Junior College, with Xiomi pursuing Business Administration with a major in Accounting, while Kent will be a Science Major with concentration in Physics and Math. Xiomi has a 3.0 GPA, while Kent holds a 3.06 overall. I asked them if there was anybody, other than the usual cadre of teachers and parents, they would thank for their success, as well as what a ‘future plaque’ dedicated to them at the school might say. For both of them, their primary school teachers were on the list – Ms. Lisa Canton of Pancotto Primary in Sandhill, where Kent is from and Ms. Gay-
Wesley’s Xiomara Gutierez and Kent Young
nel Munnings from Ebenezer Methodist Primary School. The latter question was somewhat about modesty, at least outwardly – Xiomi’s plaque would read: “As a graduate of Wesley, you have successfully achieved the honor of being a graduate of our institution…” Kent’s was more about accomplishment and achievement – “To Kent Young, Head Boy 2012-13, Salutatorian (Class of 2013), Most Outstanding Male in 4th Form…” Gwen Lizarraga High School will be
graduating 131 new faces from 150 students across 5 Fourth Forms. They will share a date (June 9th, 2013), but they will march up at the Princess Hotel and Casino (as will Edward P. Yorke High School). At the head of this year’s crop will be Valedictorian Ms. Deidra Gorrisica and Salutatorian Ms. Abigail Trapp. Say what you will, folks, Belize needs to get behind, support, and give appreciation to these well-deserving young people.
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2013
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THE BELIZE TIMES
PUP’s winning ways continue! Belize City, May 30, 2013 The People’s United Party continued to win this past Sunday when the third set of village council elections were held. Tremendous victories were gained in San Andres in the Corozal North constituency, Sarteneja in the Corozal South East constituency, and Fireburn in the Orange Walk District. Other victories came in the Stann Creek District in the villages of Valley Community, Alta Vista and a good showing was had at the Steadfast elections. In the Toledo district, the PUP won San Pedro Columbia, Medina Bank, Indian Creek, San Miguel, Silver Creek and Golden Stream councils. The reason the PUP has been getting tremendous is that even though in Opposition, the party has pursued
PUP MARSHALLS REVITALIZED IN THE WEST
a progressive vision for communities and their leaders throughout Belize. The PUP’s “True Development for our Village Communities” agenda proposes to give full autonomy to village leaders over the affairs of their community. Community leaders have embraced the reform despite the threats from political agents in the Barrow Administration. Those leaders have long called for central government to de-politicize village councils and to hand over the administration of water
systems and revenue collection from liquor and trade licenses to them. The leaders have also sought more support. In this area, the PUP has proposed to increase the monthly stipend for Alcaldes from $100 to $250, as well as introduce a stipend for Village Chairpersons of $250, and an increase in stipend for community health workers from $75 to $250. The PUP respects community leadership, and in return village leaders have embraced them.
PUP NOTICE Mesopotamia Constituency Committee The People’s United Party is accepting applications for members of the Mesopotamia Constituency Committee. Application forms at the PUP Secretariat, Independence Hall, #3 Queen Street, Belize City. Members of the PUP Marshalls Western Caucus met with national president Steve Latchman on Saturday May 18, 2013 at the Cahal Pech Resort for an important meeting to revitalize the movement
Application must be filled and returned to the Secretariat, addressed to the Secretary General by Friday June 7, 2013.
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NEWS
REGIONAL & INTERNATIONAL
02 JUN
THE THE BELIZE BELIZE TIMES TIMES
2013
HAPPY ENDING World War 3? Rumors of war No charges for mother of baby found in pipe CHINA Officials in China say the mother of a new-born baby found trapped in a sewage pipe in the eastern province of Zhejiang will not face any charges. They say they are treating the incident as an accident.
The baby, who received minor cuts and bruises during his ordeal, has been released from hospital into the care of his mother. It has emerged that it was the baby’s 22-year-old mother who raised the alarm after she gave birth at a squat toilet.
The mother said that she had concealed her pregnancy and had dropped the baby after the delivery on Saturday. Firefighters took an hour to dismantle the pipe in order to recover the baby boy.
NAKED
MACHINES
DUMPED
US court approves $4bn BP criminal penalty Mexico Barbara rose to hurricane strength Wednesday as it steamed toward a sparsely populated stretch of Mexico’s southern Pacific coast, where it was expected to quickly make landfall.
Barbara’s wind speeds hit 75 mph (120 kph), as its center swirled just about 20 miles (32 kilometers) off the coast, the U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami said.
It was moving north-northeast toward land at about 10 mph (17 kph), toward a sparsely populated stretch of coast. Mexico’s National Meteorological Service said that, while the remnants may enter the Gulf of Mexico on the other side of the isthmus, “it will be so weakened that it is unlikely to regain strength.”
SYRIA The Syrian president has said that his country would respond to any future attacks on its territory by Israel. Speaking to Hezbollah-linked alManar TV, Bashar al-Assad said there was pressure to open a military front against Israel on the Golan Heights. Israel has already carried out three air strikes on Syria to stop the transfer of advanced weapons to Hezbollah in Lebanon.
USA The Transportation Security Administration announced it has finished removing from all airports the X-ray technology that produced graphic and controversial images of passengers passing through security screening checkpoints. In a letter released Thursday, TSA administrator John Pistole told the House Homeland Security committee that as of May 16, all US airports scanners equipped with the ability to produce the penetrating images will now only
show a generic outline of a passenger to the operator. A colored box pops up if the full-body scanner detects a potentially forbidden item. The machines, which the TSA first deployed in 2008, provoked public outrage as the technology, better able than traditional X-rays to detect hidden contraband, also created images that appeared as if they were “virtual nudes.” Critics called this an invasion of privacy and questioned whether the scanning devices truly lacked the ability to save the images, as the TSA claimed.
Civil groups not pleased with plans to amend OCG Act Jamaica Attorney General Patrick Atkinson announced in Jamaican Parliament yesterday that the Act is to be amended to prevent the OCG from monitoring certain projects at the pre-contractual stage. However, the Jamaica Civil Society Coalition (JCSC) is blasting the move and argues that it contradicts pronouncements by the Government for the establishment of a single and strong anti-corruption agency. JCSC board member, Dr Carolyn Gomes says efforts should be placed on establishing the anti-corruption agency, rather than attempting to limit the powers of the OCG. Citizens Action for Principle and Integrity (CAPI) says it is alarmed by the move and the seeming support of the Parliamentary Opposition. CAPI’s co-convenor, Dennis Meadows argues that it makes good sense that the OCG monitors government contracts particularly major investments projects at the pre-contracting phase to prevent unnecessary costs. He has called for Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller to immediately advise the public on the rationale of the move. The Attorney General has said if Cabinet approves the amendment, the government would discontinue pursuing court action questioning the powers of the OCG.
02 JUN
11
THE BELIZE TIMES
2013
First Annual Bayman Triathlon in Corozal Corozal Town, May 26th, 2013 The First Annual Bayman Triathlon organised by “Team Papas” and the Belize National Triathlon Association was held in Corozal Town on Sunday, May 26th, 2013. The event was a threecourse challenge that included a 350 meter swim, 10 kilometre bicycle ride and a 3 kilometre run. There were 26 participants who all competed valiantly for the top place. The results are as follows: Female 1st – Shalini Zabaneh $500 + trophy 2nd – Kerah Eiley $400 + trophy
3rd – Luigi Urbina. $300 + trophy
phy
Master (40 and older) 1st – Jim Scott. $500 + tro-
2nd – Dr. Ramon Figueroa. $400 + trophy Mixed Relay Team 1st ($500 + trophy) – Kerah Eiley, swimmer; Byron Pope, cyclist; Alex Alvarado, runner 2nd ($400 + trophy) – Hao Cheng Lee, swimmer; Jairo Cam-
pos, cyclist; Julia Puerto, runner 3rd ($300 + trophy) – Jim Scott, swimmer; Gina Lovell, cyclist; Jason Leslie, runner Team Papas plans to make the triathlon a yearly event in an effort to promote the Corozal Bay as a destination for water and other sporting activities. It will be bigger and better next year. The event was sponsored by Team Papas, SMART, Belize Bank International, Belize Bank Ltd, Caye Caulker Water Taxi, and Bowen & Bowen Crystal Water.
Gina Lovell was 3rd place Mixed Relay Team
Junior (18 and younger) 1st – Eric Donis $500 + trophy 2nd – Michael Grajalez $400 + trophy 3rd – Daniel Cocom Male Elite 1st – Kenroy Gladden $500 + trophy 2nd – Kent Gabourel $400 + trophy
Papas awards Shalini with prize
“Smoke” Gladden receives prize
Jim Scott was 1st place Masters
First Henderson…now Jeffries comes out of closet Former Police Top Brass expose loyalty to UDP Belize City, May 29, 2013 There is something disturbing taking place in Belize. Individuals who swore to uphold the law and protect and serve all Belizeans without any form of bias, and who reached the top of the hierarchical ladder in the Police Department, are coming out of the closet declaring their loyalty to the UDP. In our Sunday, May 19th newspaper issue, the BELIZE TIMES showed the former Commissioner of Police David Henderson campaigning for the UDP in Unitedville. Henderson, who led the Police Force up to three months ago, was photographed while parading in a UDP T-shirt, pledging loyalty to the ruling party. This week, another former ComPol was caught meddling knee-deep in politics. Crispin Jeffries, who preceded Henderson, was a UDP candidate in the village council elections in Hattieville. If your head is shaking, we under-
stand. The bullish, bull-headed, it’s-myway-or-the- highway Jeffries, a political candidate? That’s right, and we have the photo to prove it. While this may be easily taken as some kind of political comedy, the truth is that it is serious stuff! Two former Commissioners of Police are full–blown agents of the UDP!! Were these men executing their duties with a political agenda the whole time? Is this why Henderson was incompetent as Commissioner in the fight
against crime? Is this why he gave lame answers to the media, in their investigations into the state execution of gang leader Arthur Young? And is this why Jeffries was so brutal against the public and media workers? Was he following direct orders from his political bosses? Jeffries and Henderson have only made it harder for the public to trust the Police. While we now know where their loyalty lies, the question is who else is compromised. Can the real Allen Whylie please stand up? Above: Henderson campaigns for the UDP in Unitedville. Below: Crispin Jeffries, a UDP candidate in village council elections
12
THE BELIZE TIMES
Makoabi R
x:
Relationships, Love Tips & Advice…
The Innocent FLIRT Exposed in 5 styles In Belize it is hard to perfect the art of flirting. You would think that the act comes naturally but this is not necessarily so. Flirting was originally intended to be part of the dating or mating rituals. In dating, flirtation was used to communicate attraction without breaching social norms. While in mating it was used as a precursor. When used as originally intended, the “game” is quite innocent. Mainly because all parties understood and agreed on the meaning and outcome. Today flirtatious exchanges have taken on new meaning where often one of the involved parties is confused about the intended results. After all, it is recipient that is the true judge of how innocent the action is. Often times the flirter (initiator) has a hidden agenda that leaves the flirtee (recipient) confused. We no longer live in an age where there are universal standards for social behaviors. As a result, flirtation ranges from vague to insulting and no one seems to question intentions because it falls under the guise of innocence. Let’s take a look at a few approaches to flirtation and then you deduce if you think innocence applies.
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I’ve Still Got It - In this approach, the flirter doesn’t have any interest in the flirtee beyond the exchange. They are simply engaging in an exercise of self validation to see if they still have ‘game’. The danger is when this behavior is bestowed on a flirtee that is lonely or unstable, they may become delusional about the flirters intentions. This mix could lead to an outpouring of unwanted emotions. ‘He said he would call but he hasn’t, now I’m really pissed!’ Testing the Waters -This approach is most often utilized as a means for the flirter to gauge their chances for success. It reduces the changes of rejection. The danger to this approach is that it sends mixed signals to the flirtee. Since the exchange does not lead to commitment one way or the other it creates a gray area that breeds insecurity. ‘Does she like me or is she just playing with me?”
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Genuine Romantic Interest- When a flirter takes this approach, they are often looking for a way to get a foot in the door. The danger here is that most people don’t take flirting seriously. So these exchanges must be followed by some definitive action. ‘She offered to meet me for happy hour, at least now I know for sure she’s interested.’ Flattery - I think this is the only innocent action on the list. The flirter is simply conveying an appreciation for the flirtee. Since the flirtee is the party that receives the most validation, there is little risk of being misled. Especially if the flirter begins and ends the exchange with the one compliment. ‘Wow, that compliment really made my day! What a nice guy.’
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Gimme Gimme - This one is usually employed for personal gain. Better jobs, free services, special treatment etc. The danger here is when the flirter realizes the flirter is not sincere there is no predicting the reaction. Additionally there is just a tone of opportunistic behavior that speaks to one’s character. ‘I can’t believe she was such a gold digger!’ So how innocent is flirting? Not very innocent at all when utilized for ill gains, in many instances it is downright self-serving. Maybe? In the final installation we faceoff Common law vs. Marriage! Exciting stuff.
02 JUN
2013
NEMO fails small test “We noh hear from dem yet” – storm victim Belize City, May 21, 2013 Persons affected by a severe thunderstorm that damaged their homes three weeks ago have said they have had to struggle to recover without the help of the Government disaster-response officials at the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO). On Thursday May 2nd, a heavy storm that caused small tornados and hail storm, passed through Belize and left behind a wreckage in several communities. In Shipyard, in the Orange Walk District, homes were turned over and farm animals were killed to a total loss of $300,000. In Lord’s Bank, Ladyville and Belize City, several homes were damaged by the heavy rains and hurricane-like winds. The day after the storm, NEMO coordinator Councillor Phillip Willoughby pretended to be savior as he went to the affected homes promising that NEMO would write a report and forward it to Ministers Anthony “Boots” Martinez, Mark “Gangman Style” King and Godwin Hulse for assistance within “a reasonable time”. Well, it seems Willoughby is still writing up his report as the bureaucracy hasn’t worked. Storm victims say they haven’t seen Willoughby or heard from NEMO since then. “We noh hear from dem yet,” said a storm victim when she called into the KREM WUB show on Monday. She explained that she can remember when Willoughby stood in her yard and told the media that he is doing a
Phillip Willoughby
“damage assessment”. The BELIZE TIMES contacted another storm victim whose house suffered major water damage after his entire roof blew off. He said that when he attempted to contact NEMO, he was told that his case is not “a national disaster” therefore NEMO is not concerned and won’t assist. It appears NEMO is awaiting for towns and cities to be levelled or lives to be lost before they act on an emergency. Their refusal to provide assistance demonstrates their utter failure in such a small test that the severe thunderstorm turned out to be. Now imagine when the big test comes about, Belizeans better brace for the worst.
Guatemalan Ex-President Alfonso Portillo Pleaded Not Guilty To Money Laundering Charges Guatemala Guatemalan ex-president Alfonso Portillo pleaded not guilty to the charges of money laundering presented by the U.S. government. In a 10-minute hearing behind closed doors in the South Court of New York, Portillo waived the right to hear the charges, as his lawyer had advised him, and made his not guilty plea to the judge. Portillo is accused of embezzling millions of dollars of public funds from both Guatemalans international aid, to private accounts in the U.S. and Europe. “Former President Portillo has been extradited to the United States for money laundering offenses. During his administration, Mr. Portillo used our system to launder illegal profits, which is a violation of a law which the DEA ag-
gressively pursues,” the anti-drug agency said in a statement. The DEA reported that, under the current law, Portillo could face 20 years in prison and a $500,000 fine or a sum totalling twice the value of the resources that he has misappropriated
02 JUN JUN 02
THE BELIZE TIMESTIMES THE BELIZE
2013
TOPMODEL 13
ENTERTAINMENT
NEWS
Queen
of the Corn Contestants
Location: Radisson Fort George Hotel and Marina
The Queen of the Corn Festival will be held on Friday, May 31st in Bullet Tree Falls. Four beautiful ladies will vie for the prestigious title. It all starts at 6:00p.m. On Saturday June 1st, the festival will continue with food, fun, games, and good times for all. The day starts at 9:00a.m with a canoe race from Benque Viejo Del Carmen to the Salvador Fernandez Bridge in Bullet Tree Falls followed by a whole day Football Quadrangular. This events are part of the Corn Festival.
Shanice
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Height: 5’ 8” Career Plan: Insurance Advisor Sign: Virgo Favourite Foods: Pasta, Rice & Beans with Stuffings. Dessert: Cheese cake
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TOP MODEL Clothing and Accessories provided by CATWALK FASHIONS
Likes: Modeling, traveling, baking, Watching sports Lives in Belmopan City Fav. Quote: “Determination is the key to success.”
visit us at www.belizetimes.bz or Facebook/ Belize Times
Cor. North Front Steet & Queen Street Belize City
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14 SPORTS
02 JUN
THE BELIZE THE BELIZE TIMES TIMES
2013
U-17 female footballers
face Guatemala on Sunday Belize City, May 28, 2013 The National U-17 Women’s Football Team will play the Guatemala national team on Sunday, June 2 at the FFB Goal Project Stadium at 4pm. On Saturday, May 18th, our national team played against Guatemala in Antigua, Guatemala, but lost 8-0. The home-field and home crowd advantage may boost our girls’ spirits, therefore, Belizeans are asked to come out and support this historic game. Team members are: Orange
Belize National Female Team
FC Belize
Walk, Marissa Cervantes; Trial Farm, Lucresha Underwood; Guinea Grass, Gisel Baeza; Paraiso, Ana Mendoza; Belize City, Kiliah McNiel, Jayelle Young, Julia Arzu; Caye Caulker, Sophia Diego, Jacqueline Riveroll; Placencia, Sabrina Eiley, Torrie Vernon; Belmopan Abigail Ramos; Dangriga, Niomi Gamboa; Biscayne, Shandy Vernon; Mahogany Heights, Erica Milligan; San Ignacio, Luannie Castillo; Santa Elena, Leinny Jones; and Independence, Brithney Drysdale.
Police team
Police United are 2013 Premiere League Champs Belmopan, May 25, 2013 The Police United have been bridesmaids in past football finals to the Belize Defence Force, the Placencia Assassins and as recent as last year to the Belmopan Bandits, so it was champagne all round when the Police captured their first national football championship at the FFB Stadium in Belmopan on Saturday night. The Police won 2-1 on goal aggregate as Game 2 of the finals ended in
a 1-1 draw with FC Belize. FC Belize took the early lead when Michael “Soup” Hernandez connected with a header to finish a play by midfielder Mark “Kelo” Leslie to beat Police goalie Keith Allen and put the ball in the back of the net. The pitch got slippery by a light drizzle that gradually strengthened into a downpour. FC Belize goalie Glenford Chimilio managed to deflect the wet ball on several Police shots on
San Ignacio FC wins Mexico’s “2013 Copa Tulum” May 28th 2013 San Ignacio United FC travelled to Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico on 25 May 2013 to participate in the 2013 Copa Tulum. Five teams from Mexico participated including; Cancun state selection, Campeche state se-
lection, Tulum state selection and the Chetumal University. San Ignacio United FC won the Championship after defeating Cancun in the finals with a 2-0 victory. Both goals were scored by Leonard “Macho” Valdez.
goal, but Danny Jimenez would not be denied. Lennox Castillo shunted the ball across to Jimenez for the finish in the 60th minute to equalize 1-1. FC Belize’s Leon Jones, Khambrel Blease and Jason “Paxon” Young entered the ball game as they tried to get that winning goal but Delroy Flores, Highking Roberts and Jeremy Bermudez also entered the ball game for the Police to secure the 1-1 draw
and the championship.
Awards Most Valuable player: Glenford Chimilio Best Goalkeeper: Glenford Chimilio Best Defense: Leon Cadle Best midfielder: Bandits’ Denmark Casey Jr. Best Forward: Bandits’ Deon Macaulay Most Goals: Bandits’ Jerome James, Deon Macaulay (9 goals each) Playoff MVP: Danny Jimenez
02 JUN JUN 02
2013
THE BELIZE TIMESTIMES THE BELIZE
SPORTS 15
Faith Nazarene wins basketball nationals Belize City, May 24, 2013 The boys of Faith Nazarene School of San Ignacio town won the national primary school basketball championships held in Belize City on Friday, Ma y 24. The Cayo boys outlasted the Belize City St. Martins de Porres’ boys 26-22. Shevaun Torres led with 10 points, Ryler Rhaburn scored 8 points while Osvin Parham added 6 points. St. Martin’s Glen Arzu scored 10 points. The Most Valuable Player award went to Cayo’s Ryler Rhaburn. 3rd place winners were Stann Creek boys defeated St. Peter Claver RC 23-7. Latrelle Middleton led with 14 points while Toledo’s Jervis Mendez, Ashton Cus and Ivan Gillett each tossed in a bucket. How they won: Faith Nazarene vs. Corozal Methodist School boys – 32-2 Stann Creek vs. St. Peter Claver RC School – 18-4
Faith Nazarene boys
St. Martin de Porres RC vs. Corozal Methodist boys – 22-6 Stann Creek boys vs. Louisiana Government RC –24-4
Louisiana School girls
Faith Nazarene vs. St. Martin’s boys – 23-10 St. Peter Claver RC vs. Louisiana Government RC – 14-3
St. Martin’s boys vs. Stann Creek – 30-20 Faith Nazarene vs. St. Peter Claver RC – 38-8
Tuff e’Nuff & Oceana lead interoffice basketball
are national basketball champs Belize City, May 24, 2013 The Louisiana Government School girls from Orange Walk Town won the national primary schools basketball championships held in Belize City on Friday, May 24. The Sugar City girls ran over the Holy Redeemer girls 22-13. MVP Yasel Sutherland had 8 points. Siriann Chi and Aaliya Leiva each added 4 points, while Zelita Catzim and Jannil Dominguez each tossed in a bucket for the 22-13 win. Holy Redeemer’s Zaria Jenkins had 7 points, while Diana Elijio and Felicia Arzu each added a bucket. 3rd place went to the Hopkins girls who blew away the Libertad girls 25-3. Sharette Requena scored 11 points; Shameika Peters added 10 points and Rushelle Ramos and Odajah Casimiro each tossed in a bucket. Libertad’s Tamira Nunez hit a single trey. The Most Valuable Player award went to Sugar City’s Yasel Sutherland. How they won: Libertad Methodist School vs. Bishop Martin RC - 7-2 Holy Family School vs. St. Peter Claver RC – 18-11 Holy Redeemer RC vs. Libertad
MVP Yasel Sutherland scored 33 pts
girls – 23-3 Louisiana Government vs. Holy Family School – 18-6 Holy Redeemer vs. Bishop Martin RC – 20-6 Louisiana Government vs. St. Peter Claver RC – 15-4 Holy Redeemer vs. Holy Family School – 19-14 Louisiana Government vs. Libertad girls – 22-13
Belize City, May 26, 2013 Tuff e’Nuff (5-0) and Oceana No Limits (5-1) are leading the 2013 interoffice basketball competition as each posted their 5th win when the competition continued at Bird’s Isle last Friday and Sunday nights. Tuff e’Nuff rolled over the Allied Insurance Abbysinians 8471 on Friday night. Winston “Air Jun” Pratt led with 22 points and 12 rebounds. Tuff e’Nuff led 1815 in the 1st quarter. Paul Swasey led the Abbysinians with 19 points, 8 rebounds while Darwin “Puppy” Leslie added 17 points and 8 rebounds as the Abbysinians led 40-37 at the half. Tuff e’Nuff regained the lead 66-54 in the 3rd quarter and lasted out the Abbysinians to win. Oceana No Limit posted their 5th win 88-70 against the Police last Thursday. Greg “Chippy” Rudon led No Limits with 24 points while Sheldon Williams led the police with 15 points and 6 rebounds. Other matches: Abyssinians vs. Police – 84-78 Top scorers: Darwin Leslie, 21 pts; Rupert Brown, 19pts; Sheldon Williams, 23 pts; Orlando Bowen, 21pts Abyssinians vs. Digicel 4G – 73-69 Top scorers: Roscoe Rhys, 18 pts; Earl “Bolo” Johnson 17pts and 6 rebounds
Oceana’s Greg Rudon scored 22pts C.Y.D.P. vs. Digicell 4G – 90-76 Top scorers: Ervin Orosco, 27pts; Bernard Felix, 26pts; Devon Lozano, 25pts; Karim Thompson, 22pts Sir Belikin vs. Dept. of Youth Services – 78-74 Top scorers: Keith “Superman” Acosta, 26pts and 12 rebounds; Jamir Enriquez, 19pts Youth Services vs. Digicel 4G – 82-76 Top scorers: Kenroy Usher, 29pts; Karim Thompson, 17pts
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02 JUN
THE BELIZE TIMES
2013
2013 Female Cross Country Champ
Shalini Zabaneh says
Thank you! Thank you everyone who supported me, in any way, in my bid to recapture the Female Cross Country Championship 2013. To all my fans in my home village of Mango Creek, especially Clayton Forman, a.k.a. Pideedo, my number one fan, always encouraging me, yelling from afar, “the Ridah… the Ridah… bring it back home”; my beloved god-sister and brother – twins – Yoli and Gordo Torres Brooks, always there for me, no matter what; and all the people who lined the route all the way to the City and shouted my name and cheered when I rode by; the lady at the Finish Line in the red blouse whose little daughter wants to be a cyclist and who came to hug me; and the little boy who wanted his picture taken with me; and so many more who genuinely experienced joy at my victory – thank you. To my dad; my Roger; my
Thank You!
coaches, Lindsey and “Barcelona”; my brothers, Sal, Papa, and Tony II, and my sisters, Gina, Sela and Juana, and, of course, my Mama Bear – I owe you this title. You told me I could do it, and you showed me how. It’s a great feeling! Your diamond girl shines again! You see, I am April born, and my birth stone is the diamond, and the Big Brannon memorial trophy that I won has a huge twinkling diamond on it! How could they have known? Oh, Lord, it’s hard to be humble! But, with so much humility floating around on the web, I think today, I would rather be proud!!! To all the promoters who came up with their financial support at the appointed moment and those who gave prizes – Toucan Industries, the BTB, Hyde Shipping Lines, Juice Joint, Chaps, Ozzie the Clown, Laurie Young, Dustin Brown, Belmer Winery, One Stop Gas Station,
Biltmore Hotel, Therapy Plus, Barney Brown, Solid Waste Management and especially Mr. Flores and the Big Creek Group of Companies, Delta Airlines and Hon. Herman Longsworth – and any who I may have missed, thank you for making the race worth riding, although, I would have ridden this race for the roses and the title alone! Becoming a Champion is not easy, and staying a Champion is even harder! The sacrifices, the training when one would rather stay in bed, the aches, and pains, the dangers on the road from uncaring drivers, the disappointments, the limitations, and the expectations from your fans often cause one to become discouraged if one is not determined and focused. So I train, recognizing that skill, strength, and strategy contribute to the win, and healthy competition keeps us
from being complacent. In cycling, it is usually the best sprinter who wins. If you can’t sprint, then you may not win, no matter how hard you ride. I have not yet developed the art of sprinting, so I have to work on it and strategize, and, in this race, work I did, while Dad, and Rog and Coach Barcelona and Tony II strategized, and Mama Bear prayed!! I won! The 2013 Female Cross Country Race is now history, and as we look forward to the other cycling activities that will be planned throughout the year from all the newly renovated district Associations that will form the new Federation, may we continue in the spirit of our motto which invites us to the “brotherhood (sisterhood) of the ride”.Thank you all from the bottom of my heart! Sincerely, Shalini
02 JUN
2013
THE BELIZE TIMES
Scales of
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try’s largest hospital within a short period of 20 days and none of the top brasses of our health system (the Minister, CEO of KHMH and the Chairman of the KHMH Board) had knowledge about this; that they found out about it like by anthony sylvestre the rest of us, from the nightly news? That this is manifest negligence and incompetence is without question. But what comfort is it to the twelve parents whose children died needlessly to be told that someone screwed up? To their families or to exOn 21st November, ment on the South Side of Chipectant mothers who must 2012, sixteen days after be- cago and thousands of new jobs have their babies be deliving re-elected to serve the created. ered at KHMH? Which is 2nd District of Illinois for a Jesse Jr. had also served as what these top brasses in the 9th consecutive term, Jes- national co-chairman of Barak health system seem to se Jackson Jr. resigned from want to do- give some the U.S. Congress. (US Conlip service apology for gressmen have elections evHow is it in the 21st century, not one, not two, not the breakdown in the ery two years). In his resignation letter to the Speaker of six, but twelve infants die in the country’s largest system and move on. But surely, they the House, he said this: hospital within a short period of 20 days and must know by now “I have made my fair share none of the top brasses of our health that this debacle at of mistakes. I am aware of system (the Minister, CEO of KHMH and the KHMH, cannot be the ongoing federal investigaswept under the rug. If tion into my activities and am the Chairman of the KHMH Board) had anything, it has magnidoing my best to address the knowledge about this; that they found fied the public’s distrust situation responsibly, coopout about it like the rest of us, from the of the KHMH, a distrust erate with the investigators, which goes back some and accept responsibility for nightly news? years when the instimy mistakes, for they are tution’s acronym was my mistakes and mine alone. used pejoratively by all; a disNone of us is immune from Obama’s 2008 presidential cam- ential body would expose itself our share of shortcomings paign (who at the time repre- to hemorrhaging loss in confi- trust that was only stemmed or human frailties and I pray sented the state of Illinois in the dence if it had as its head, a man when Joe Coye was Minister accused of grave sexual conduct. of Health and Dr. Alvaro Rothat I will be remembered for US Senate). what I did right. It has been a But, when you hold a posi- So, Strauss-Khan resigned short- sado was the hospital’s CEO. A person who is ailing profound honor to serve the tion or office where people’s ly after the scandal broke. should want to voluntarily go For, as British MP Andrew constituents of Illinois’s Sec- confidence in you matters, then to a hospital to receive treatond Congressional District it matters when they lose confi- Mitchell explained to his Party and I thank them for their pa- dence in you! And in times like Leader and Prime Minister David ment and feel that she will tience, their words of support these, resigning is the only sen- Cameron on resigning as Gov- leave in better shape; not the and prayers during what has sible and honourable decision ernment Whip, “whatever the reverse. Which is why this rights and wrongs of the matter matter of the deaths of 12 inbeen, and what will continue for the office holder. to be a very trying time for For loss of confidence has a I will not be able to fulfill my du- fants at KHMH is so dangerous. me and my family.” deleterious effect on the office ties.” People should never gamSuch is the necessity in many This, from a man who you hold. The integrity and image ble with their health. But the had an otherwise exempla- of the office is diminished; wast- instances where persons in ofKHMH scandal has created ry record representing the ed even when the tainted office fice are compelled to resign. Here in Belize, ever since the (understandably so) uncer2nd District of Illinois for holder remains in office. People 17 straight years and who in turn begin to view the office scandal of the 12 infant deaths tainty in the public’s mind polled on average 83.5 % of contemptuously as a waste of at the KHMH broke, there have of whether they will receive the votes casted in the 10 time. Which is a terrible thing, been repeated public calls for quality and safe treatment at elections he contested for for the office is always more im- the resignation of the Minister the KHMH. The upshot of this that congressional seat. In- portant than the person who sits of Health, CEO of the hospi- is that those who are in need deed, as he also recorded in in it. The office remains a fixture tal and Chairman of the KHMH of health care may very well his resignation letter to the (or should) even after the office Board. And the clamour for their refuse to seek it out. This is what loss of confiresignation is grounded in logic Speaker of the House, he had holder leaves, retires or dies. dence in an important system worked to have built for his Resignation of an office hold- and fact- an unprecedented dilike the health care can cause. congressional district: new er then, is the best known way saster has occurred in the health train stations, water towers, to stem the loss in confidence of system under their watch. They This is why the hemorrhaging must go! Apparently they hav- loss in confidence needs to emergency rooms, affordable the public in that office. be stemmed. This can only be housing, community centers And so, in the throes of the en’t heard the calls. How is it in the 21st centu- done with the Minister, CEO and healthcare clinics, nearly scandal of him allegedly (at the a billion dollars of infrastruc- time) misusing campaign mon- ry, not one, not two, not six, but and Chairman of KHMH reture and community improve- ies, mounting pressures and loss twelve infants die in the coun- signing. They must go!
JUSTICE
They Must Go!
of confidence in him, Jesse Jr. did the inevitable: he knew he had to go and went without the unnecessary fight to keep his job. In one swoop, a distinguished political career dissipated. This is what CIA director George Tenet did after the US forces in Iraq failed to find the weapons of mass destruction he had claimed existed there; he resigned. For him to remain as the head of the CIA would mean a loss in confidence of the US spy agency. Similarly, head of the International Monetary Fund, Dominique Strauss-Kahn, resigned amid rape charges being brought against him. He was not convicted of any crime at the time, but the world’s most influ-
2013 - 2016
2013 – 2016
The PUP will recognize and respect the role and responsibilities of Village Alcaldes and Chairpersons.
The PUP will always consult with village communities before undertaking any project, investment or development in that community.
The PUP will provide an annual Subvention/Budget for each village community as a part of the National Budget. This budget will be determined thru consultation and on the basis of equity and need.
The PUP will remove the politically appointed Water Boards and give this important responsibility to the elected Village Councils.
The PUP will review, amend and strengthen the Village Council Act in consultation with Village Chairpersons, Alcaldes and residents in an effort to further empower these communities.
The PUP will re-activate and strengthen the National Association of Village Councils (NAVCO) and the District Associations of Village Councils (DAVCO) to allow these organizations to more effectively and efficiently serve the needs of our villages.
The PUP will increase the monthly stipend for Alcalde’s from $100.00 per month to $250.00 per month to allow them to more effectively carry out their responsibilities.
The PUP will institute a stipend for Village Chairpersons of $250.00 per month to allow the Chairpersons to more effectively carry out their work.
The PUP will increase the stipend for Community Health Workers from $75.00 to $250.00 per month to allow these dedicated workers to more effectively carry out their duties. We will also ensure that basic medicines and medical supplies are available at all Village Health Posts.
The PUP will re-establish functioning Ministry of Works Road Units in each and every district.
The PUP will re-activate the Rice Industry in the Toledo District and institute a one–payment system at a fairer price to our Belizean Rice Farmers.
The PUP will re-establish a Survey Unit in the Ministry of National Resources to assist with land surveys and the ongoing challenge of village boundaries.
The PUP will work with village communities to determine how these communities can more effectively benefit from the issuance of trade and liquor licenses.
The PUP will work with village leaders to make more effective use of Community Centers as “Opportunity and Activity Centers”.
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Our village communities need less political interference and more solutions to the serious challenges they face. The next People’s United Party Government will pursue a bold reform and development agenda in our villages across Belize and will take the following specific actions:
After 5 years of UDP Government our villages are poorer and less developed. The PUP understands that Rural Economic Development means access to potable water, access to arable land, access to affordable credit for our farmers, access to electricity, better feeder roads, access to modern telecommunications, proper housing and quality health care and education.
The People’s United Party recognizes that true development in Belize will only take place thru meaningful, equitable and sustainable investments in our Village Communities.
El PUP proporcionará una Subvención anual y un Presupuesto para cada aldea como parte del Presupuesto Nacional. Este presupuesto será determinado a través de la consulta y sobre la base de la equidad y la necesidad. El PUP eliminarán las Juntas directivas de Agua de designación política y dará esta importante responsabilidad a los consejos de aldea elegidos. El PUP revisara, enmendara y fortalecerá el Consejo de Aldea, el cual actuará en consulta con los presidentes de Aldea, Alcaldes y vecinos en un esfuerzo por seguir potenciando estas comunidades. El PUP reactivará y fortalecerá la Asociación Nacional de Consejos de Aldea (NAVCO) y las Asociaciones Distritales de Concilios Aldeanos (DAVCO) para permitir que estas organizaciones atiendan de manera más eficaz y eficiente a las necesidades de nuestros pueblos. El PUP aumentará el estipendio mensual para Alcalde de $ 100.00 por mes a $250.00 por mes para que puedan llevar a cabo con mayor eficacia sus responsabilidades. El PUP establecerá un estipendio para los presidentes de Aldea de $ 250.00 por mes para permitir a los Presidentes llevar a cabo más eficazmente su labor. El PUP aumentará el estipendio para los Trabajadores de Salud Comunitaria de $ 75.00 a $ 250.00 por mes para permitir que estos trabajadores puedan ejecutar más eficazmente sus funciones. También se asegurará de que los medicamentos y los suministros médicos estén disponibles en todos los puestos de salud en las aldeas.
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El PUP trabajará con los líderes del pueblo para hacer un uso más eficaz de los Centros Comunitarios como “centros de actividad y oportunidades”.
El PUP trabajará con las comunidades rurales para determinar cómo estas comunidades pueden beneficiarse de manera más efectiva de la emisión de licencias de licor y comercio.
El PUP volverá a establecer la Unidad de topografía en el Ministerio de Recursos Nacionales para ayudar en los estudios topográficos de tierra y el desafío permanente de los límites del pueblo.
El PUP reactivará la industria arrocera en el distrito de Toledo y establecerá un sistema de pago a un precio más justo para nuestros cultivadores de arroz de Belice.
El PUP restablecerá el funcionamiento de las Unidades de Obras de carretera en cada distrito.
El PUP siempre consultará con las comunidades rurales antes de emprender cualquier proyecto, inversión o el desarrollo de esa comunidad.
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El PUP reconoce y respeta el papel y las responsabilidades de los Alcaldes y de los Presidentes de aldea.
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Nuestras comunidades rurales necesitan menos interferencia política y más soluciones a los graves problemas que enfrentan. El próximo Gobierno del Partido Unido del Pueblo llevará a cabo una reforma radical a la agenda de desarrollo en nuestros pueblos en todo el país de Belice y tomará las siguientes acciones específicas:
Después de 5 años de gobierno de el UDP nuestros pueblos están más pobres y menos desarrollados. El PUP entiende que el desarrollo económico rural significa el acceso a agua potable, acceso a la tierra cultivable, el acceso a créditos accesibles para nuestros agricultores, el acceso a la electricidad, la mejora de los caminos de acceso, el acceso a las telecomunicaciones modernas, vivienda adecuada, servicios de salud y educación de calidad.
El Partido Unido del Pueblo reconoce que el verdadero desarrollo en Belice sólo se llevará a cabo a través de inversiones significativas, equitativas y sostenibles en las comunidades de nuestro pueblo.
Agenda para el Consejo de Aldea
Partido Unido del Pueblo
People’s United Party
Village Council Agenda
para nuestras comunidades
DESARROLLO VERDADERO
for our Village Communities
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It’s hard to raise a child when you’re still a child
By Dr. Angela Banner Joseph “It’s about time we make the well-being of our young people more important than ideology and politics. As a country, we benefit from investing in their future by investing in pregnancy prevention” – Jane Fonda Globally, the discussion of teen pregnancy is increasing and the debate is rampant on whether to provide free condoms in schools, whether to teach abstinence-only sex education, or whether to ask parents about teaching sex education in school. What all of these things have in common is that children should not be having children. Teen pregnancy is a family’s greatest nightmare and can lead to a national public health crisis of young mothers. What we have learned is that teen-age pregnancy is associated with increases in single parenthood, poverty, unhealthy babies, juvenile delinquency, developmental delays in children, increased school dropouts, reductions in attaining a college degree, increased incarceration, and a dismal future. Society has shown that children of teen-age mothers are more likely to become teen parents themselves. Teen pregnancy is both a cause and a consequence of a host of social ills. People often believe that teenage pregnancy occurred because of irresponsible behavior, misinformation, or “I didn’t believe getting pregnant would happen to me.” What many teenagers don’t understand is that being a parent is a full-time job; 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. You cannot turn a switch on and off, of when to be a parent, and you cannot send your child back when you want to go partying with your friends. Once you give birth, that baby is here to stay: A permanent fixture in your life and always at your side. Some say that young girls are getting pregnant on purpose to keep a boyfriend or to prove their love to a boy. Young ladies, a boy will wait to have sex with you if he loves you. In a few cases, girls form a pact to get pregnant so that they can raise their children together, which is absolutely nonsense.
Teenagers are not emotionally ready to become parents. How do we counsel teenagers about sex? How do we teach girls not to succumb to peer pressure to prove their love to someone? Some teenagers use having sex or having a baby as a source of identity and status within a community. That is one trophy that I would not want as a teenager, especially when I have to look at the financial and emotional cost to raise a child. How can a teenager support a child with no education and no employable skills? Having no employable skills reduces your earning potential. Although a few teenagers fulfill their aspiration to attend and graduate from school after a pregnancy, wanted or unwanted, not every person is mature enough to take on such responsibility. Parents, you are the first and most important person to educate your child about sexuality and about the social and economic consequences of teenage pregnancy. Some parents are afraid or embarrassed to talk to their children about sensitive issues such as sex and human relationships. If you are embarrassed, how can you expect your child to ask questions? Think about how embarrassed your child is. As a result, many young people are not aware of or are ignorant about their reproductive functions. Teen pregnancy problems will not be solved overnight. Yes, we need family planning services and sex education classes, but we must provide our children with basic education and employment, as well as positive and successful role models in order to prepare them for a realistic future. Teenagers need adult supervision and support rather than lectures about sexuality. Such support should be age-appropriate and should begin with preteens. Young people want us to spend time with them and listen to them. Children want us to explain why pre-marital sex is not the best option for them until they are mature and can handle parenthood. Similarly, teens want us to show them in our daily lives about healthy relationships, because they are influenced by what you do as well as what you say. Parents of teenagers can help prevent teen pregnancy by communicating the pros and cons of pregnancy and providing guidance to their children about sexuality, contraception, and the risks and responsibilities of sexuality and pregnancy. It is critically important for parents and teens to talk about these issues and know the facts. I could write so much more on this topic, but I will close by saying that teenagers should enjoy their youth and refrain from pre-marital sex because of the long-term consequences and the impact having a child would have on their future. Teenagers have not done enough living to be having children. Dr. Angela Banner Joseph holds a doctorate degree in Educational Leadership and Change from the Fielding Graduate University
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Look like only Barrow fu eat! NEPOTISM = CORRUPTION 1. Lois Young Barrow (Ex-Wife) – United Nations Ambassador 2. Anwar Barrow (Son) – Appointed to BTL Board 3. Shyne Barrow (Son) – Cultural Ambassador 4. Denys Barrow (Brother) – Appointed to Court of Appeal/Private Attorney for GOB 5. Kimano Barrow (Nephew) PUC Board Member/Granted Oil Exploration Licence 6. Naima Barrow (Niece) – Appointed to Election and Boundaries Commission 7. Liesje Barrow (Niece) – Appointed to Belize Advisory Council 8. Cheryl Krusen (formerly Barrow) – Appointed to Solicitor General
DEAN BARROW IS BELIZE’S BIGGEST PROBLEM!!!
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Reid Do the honorable thing! By G. Michael Reid As a small child, I remember speArlette and Dave knew each other from high school. They graduated together but went their separate ways. A few years later, their paths would cross again and this time as fate would have it, they fell in love. They dated for a few months and eventually decided that they wanted to get married and build a life together. They both wanted children and did not want to wait. Unfortunately, several years went by and Arlette did not conceive. They tried everything, different positions, different herb mixtures and she even spent hours holding her legs up because she was told that that would help. They prayed a lot, read books and spent countless hours on google. They learned about ovulation cycle, follicular phase and some big words like hypothalamus. They tried to catch the estrogen levels when they were at their highest point. They knew all about the pituitary gland and that it sent out the follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) that sent out the follicles to develop into mature eggs. They found out that ovulation occur when a mature egg is released from the ovary, pushed down the fallopian tube, and become available for fertilization. They became almost experts but still, no luck! They were told to avoid stress, illnesses and tried not to disrupt normal routines.
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THE BELIZE TIMES not hide it from him even if she wanted to. It was the happiest moment of her life. Dave was overjoyed when Arlette broke the news and could hardly contain himself.
are some fathers that will impregnate a woman and leave her without care. Then there are mothers, like the young mother who recently drowned her three children, who seemingly don’t mind losing their That night, they celebrated at children. There are many partheir favorite restaurant. Dave ents however, like Arlette told everyone that he met. He and Dave who look forward was going to be a father! He to having children. They incur called his mother and she called humongous expense in preAt times it was almost comhers. Everyone was very excitparing for their tiny bundle of ical as they did some almost ed. joy. Any one of those babies impossible things to make it He fussed over her throughcould have grown up to be like happen. Every month, Dave out the entire pregnancy and any one of us, or like an Arlie longed desperately to hear the refused to let her do any strenPetters or an Andy Palacio or a words that so many other men uous work. He hired a maid to George Price. Didn’t we owe normally dread; honey I’m late! assist her around the house and them that chance? But every month, Arlette’s perirushed home from work every What happened at the od arrived on time. There were day. He loved his wife more KHMH is inexcusable and untimes when one or the other than he ever had before. forgivable. And really, what would cast a suspicious glance Sometime in the second triwere their intentions? Had the other’s way, but they loved mester Arlette did an ultrasound one grieving and concerned each other too much to lay acand learned that she was going parent not called a talk show, cusations. Still, the possibility to have a son. While he insistwe might never have known existed that either Arlette was ed that it would not have made what was happening there. barren or that Dave was impoa difference either way, deep Even then, it was only after much prodding and querying that the Minister of Health Pablo Marin should hospital finally sent out a press release conhave already resigned. Anywhere else in firming the tragedy. the world, leaders remove themThe usual, “we are investigating” or a “we selves for much less than this. It is will try to ensure that it the decent and honorable thing to will not happen again” will not be enough this do. time. This is gross incompetence and carelessness. The situation has tent. They decided that either inside, Dave was profoundly happened before and has way, they could not live without proud. He got busy preparing a been happening with regulareach other and in desperation room and purchasing a crib. It ity at the Northern Regional even discussed the possibility was a boy so everything was Hospital. Who is responsible of adopting. But Dave wanted blue. He bought pampers, and and what we going to do? his own for child. baby clothes and even some Minister of Health PabArlette never gave up hope. expensive cigars. They decided lo Marin should have already She kept trying and spent a upon a name. Because of his reresigned. Anywhere else in small fortune on doctor visits ligious background, Dave wantthe world, leaders remove and on home pregnancy tests. ed a Biblical name. Everything themselves for much less Every month; sometimes sevwas in order to welcome baby than this. It is the decent and eral times for the month, she James Simeon into this world. honorable thing to do. And to would go into the bathroom Sometime around the eight hear the CEO and the Chairand hope and pray but it always month, Arlette went into labor man of KHMH admit that they seemed in vain. Then one day, and went into the hospital. only learned about what was she had just returned from a Little James came in a month happening from watching the long walk and after using the premature but apart from that, news is incredulous. There bathroom, did the usual test. everything seemed okay. That was obviously a complete She could hardly believe her is however, until they got the breakdown of the system. eyes, but there it was! The blue devastating news that no parFolks at some point, Belizeans plus sign was in the round winent ever wants to receive. will have to demand more dow. With shaking hands, she The above story is fictional from these officials who enjoy grabbed another strip and anbut could very well have been these plush and well paying other but got the same result. that of any of the twelve famjobs. There is a mess here that She must have done it at least ilies that suffered from the reneeds to be cleaned up and six times. Still, she did not want cent catastrophe at the Karl sweeping it under the rug canto give her Dave false hope. Huesner Memorial Hospital not be allowed; not this time! She hurriedly got dressed and (KHMH). In less than three headed to her doctor’s office; weeks, a dozen she had to be absolutely sure. families were To her delight, the doctor congiven the unfirmed what the home test had thinkable news been saying. Arlette was with that their babies child. She couldn’t wait to tell had died. The fastest selling newspaper in Belize Dave but knew that she could Now there
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Rosita Arvigo
Master Belizean Herbalist Is Originally From Chicago
Rosita Arvigo
(Photo courtesy Belize.com)
26 May 2013, Reprinted from the Chicago Reader Newspaper “I left Chicago during the Vietnam War and went to Mexico for seven years. The boyfriend I had at the time was a draft resister. We were way back in the bush, about 14 hours’ walk from a village that was a 20-hour bus ride from the highway. It was a self-sufficient homestead we started. We could do everything except weave cloth and make paper. We had a fruit orchard, and we cared for that, and it was just
Rosita Arvigo and Don Elijio Panti gathering medicinal plants at Ixchel farm in western Belize
the two of us and our two children. “That relationship broke up, and it was time to move on. My parents were adamant that I should get a degree. I went to Chicago and entered a college of naprapathy, and that’s where I met my current husband. “In the 1980s, there was kind of a campaign against natural healers and herbal practitioners. I wanted to live and work in peace and heal people and take care of them, and that was becoming against the law in America. So I went to Belize in 1982. It was for medical freedom, and a year-round growing season, and wanderlust. Those are always my reasons. “I was trying to find someone who could teach me about the medicinal plants of my adopted country. ‘The
most famous healer is this Maya shaman Don Elijio—but watch out for him,’ everybody said. ‘He’s a lecher.’ It wasn’t true. I’m glad I didn’t pay any attention to that. “So I made an appointment to visit him. I had to walk miles—across the river, through the jungle, down the road—to get to his village. I asked him if he would teach me, and he said no, and I kept asking him, and he said no and no and no. “Exactly one year later, I got there very early in the morning, and he said, ‘I have no time for you today. I have to go harvest my corn.’ I said, ‘Well, let me help you.’ He said, ‘What do you know about harvesting corn? You’re from Chicago.’ I said, ‘I lived in Mexico for seven years. I can harvest corn. Let’s go.’ “In the middle of the morning, he looked at the pile of corn I had pulled, and he was impressed. He said, ‘Tell me, what do you want? What is it?’ I said, ‘Don Elijio, I just want to learn about the plants. If you take me as your student, I promise to work hard.’ So he did. I became his constant companion and his disciple for 15 years. He died in 1996 at age 103. “We still live in Belize, and we grow bananas, chocolate, lots of fruits, and vegetables. I’m here in Chicago for five months, helping my daughter with her new baby and leading herb walks in the city. I’ll be back every summer. “Right now I’m finding plantain, which is excellent for wounds and cuts. And dandelions—those yellow flowers make a wonderful cough medicine. There’s burdock; that is a blood tonic for people just coming off long-term illnesses. And there’s yellow dock, which is the natural antidote to poison ivy. These plants have been here for thousands of years. Anywhere there’s a crack of dirt in the sidewalk, a medicinal plant will grow.”
UDP raids land in Caye Caulker Caye Caulker Village, May 29, 2013 A petition letter from Caye Caulker residents has been gathering huge support for a call on authorities to rein in the politically-appointed lots committee. The lots committee, which is appointed by the Area Representative to undermine the duly elected village council, is set up to distribute land. In the case of Caye Caulker, the residents say the lots committee is giving away land to undeserving persons including non-villagers and political cronies. The residents say
that recently land was used as a political gimmick to advance the UDP’s agenda in the upcoming village council elections in mid-June. Some 150 lots were issued out to persons who don’t deserve a
piece of the island. The villagers are concerned that their children and future generations of original residents will not be able to inherit any part of the island, because of the UDP’s land giveaway.
In the petition, they write, “We the undersigned villagers call on the Prime Minister, our area representative and the Minister of lands and the Caye Caulker village council to rectify this wrongful move
ASAP and give back what is rightfully the Heritage of our Caye Caulker villagers”. Up to news time, the petition has garnered over 120 signatures, some of which are displayed above.
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Recipe of the week Father’s Day is celebrated on the third Sunday in June, so here at our Recipe Corner we are dedicating this month to men and their love for grilling. This week’s recipe is sure to become a favourite for the next time you dust off your grill.
BEER CAN GRILLED CHICKEN Ingredients
1 (12-ounce) can beer
Beer Can Chicken Rub: 2 tablespoons smoked paprika 2 tablespoons salt 2 tablespoons onion powder 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper 1 tablespoon ground cumin 2 teaspoons dried thyme 2 teaspoons dried oregano 2 teaspoons black pepper 2 teaspoons garlic powder
Directions
For the Chicken:
4 pounds chicken, washed and dried Vegetable oil
Beer Can Chicken Rub
For the chicken rub: In a small bowl mix all the ingredients together and use for the grilled chicken. You can store extra rub mixture in an airtight container for up to 6 months. For the chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Rub the chicken and its cavity down with the vegetable oil. Season the chicken with rub
MARRIAGES Jason Allan Moore, 35, to Nicole Ann Wiley, 39, both of Spokane Valley, Washington, U.S.A. Jose Manuel Matus, 28, of San Ignacio Town, Cayo District, to Erlinda Ciomara Gonzalez, 28, of Blackman Eddy, Cayo District Eduardo Penglas Casanova, 35, to Barbara Jere Wood Huethey, 38, both of Belize City Wayne Gilbert Leslie, 25, to Tanisia Manisia Emmanuel, 30, both of Belize City Cresencio Sosa, 35, of Belize City, to Lauren Melanie Mena, 33, of Belmopan Leroy Clinton Young, 22, to Aisha Shanelle Nunez, 24, both of Belize City Jarret Addrick Galvez, 24, to Elsy Elisa Cristobal Rocha, 23, both of Belize City Edwin Hilberto Millian, 21, of Benque Viejo del Carmen Town, Cayo District, to Estephanie Sajhira Perez, 18, of Carmelita, Orange Walk District Lionel Philip Cuthkelvin, 35, to Kimberly Noreen Rodriguez, 33, both of Lords’ Bank, Belize District Glenford Emmanuel Stamp, 46, to Melanie Tricia Batty, 35, both of Belize City Mark Daren Lopez, 29, to Kimberly Kimiani Dominguez, 25, both of Belize City Sian Vittorni Depaz, 30, to Brenda Marilou Zepeda, 29, both of Ladyville, Belize Dis-
trict Athon Hermes Martinez, 33, to Petrona Florence Lewis, 31, both of Belize City Hans Van Veen, 61, of Jully, Bourgogne, France, to Kathleen Grace Koch, 49, of Eagle, Colorado, U.S.A. Johann Dyck Loewen, 22, to Susana Penner, 21, both of Lower Barton Creek, Cayo District Keizer James Leslie, 23, of Concepcion, Corozal District, to Anahi Yohanny Botes, 24, of Libertad, Corozal District Tyson Kenly Moody, 29, to Lisa Marie Middleton, 27, both of Ladyville, Belize District Jacobo Eliseo Garcia, 29, to Ruth Jordan, 37, both of San Ignacio Town, Cayo District Dalheart Denver Charles McFadzean, 30, to Doris Jadda Vannette Awe, 21, both of Santa Elena Town, Cayo District Anthony Richard Gillett, 24, to Mirla Stephanie Hob, 18, both of Benque Viejo del Carmen Town, Cayo District Luis Alberto Camal, 41, to Luby Johana Morales, 31, both of San Jose Succotz, Cayo District Denil Jasmani Hernandez Reynoso, 20, to Wendy Gissel Cal, 18, both of San Ignacio Town, Cayo District Benjamin Hewitt Miller, 30, of Sparks, Nevada, U.S.A., to Silvana Alejandra Reyes Fuentes, 26, of Concepcion, Chile Edward Ucan, 23, of San Vic-
mixture, remembering to season the cavity. Pour out 1/4 of the beer and sit the chicken on top of the beer can. Place the chicken in the center of the hot grill and cover. Cook the chicken for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until an instant-read thermometer registers 165 degrees F. Once cooked, cover loosely with foil and let rest for 10 minutes before carving.
tor, Corozal District, to Erika Perez, 20, of Cristo Rey, Corozal District Jose Rolando Peralta Palencia, 37, to Elida del Carmen Martinez Milan, 18, both of Duck Run II, Cayo District Hugo Audon Cano, 57, to Jacqueline Jane Brice, 50, both of Parksville, British Columbia, Canada Simeon Arthur Chimilio, 50, to Dethra Camille Sabal, 27, both of Camalote, Cayo District
BIRTHS Born to Troy Anthony Stephen and Lisa Alexania Stephen nee Dawson, a boy, Troy Samuel Alexander Born to Virgilio Felix Nicholson and Paula Lucinda Nicholson nee Caliz, a boy, Dilan Lyran Born to Israel Antonio Hernandez and Norma del Carmen Hernandez nee Orellana, a boy, Marcos Antonio Born to Ricardo Martin Rivas and Edna Luclemi Rivas nee Mena, a boy, Jared Martin
DEATHS Clayton Alexander Rempel, 18
Belize Workers’ Union joins forces with the UK’s GMB Historic agreement unites Sugar workers Unions Orange Walk Town, May 28th 2013 Bert Schouwenburg, International Officer of the GMB Trade Union from UK, was in Orange Walk Town to agree on a Memorandum of Understanding with the Belize Workers’ Union that will herald a new era of cooperation and mutual solidarity between the two organizations. GMB and the BWU have a common interest in that they both represent workers at American Sugar Refining. GMB members refine Belizean sugar, processed by BWU members, at Tate and Lyle’s historic refinery in London’s east end. GMB is in the third largest union in the UK and has over 620,000 paying members. BWU president Ramiro Góngora said “We believe that the MOU with GMB will prove to be hugely beneficial to
both our organizations and we look forward to a fruitful relationship based on principles of international solidarity and mutual respect.” Bert Schouwenburg said “I am delighted to be able to make this historic agreement on behalf of GMB with our friends and Comrades from BWU. UK consumers in general and our membership in particular are keen to hear how workers are treated along the supply chain and we intend to give BWU every support in their negotiations with the employer and look forward to hearing from them at regular intervals. The sugar industry is in a state of flux and although we don’t always agree with ASR in London, they treat us with respect and I expect no less from the company in Belize.”
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THE BELIZE TIMES
Heads up! Saturday, June 8th is World Oceans’ Day! Join us as we celebrate! Before you start this week’s Mariposa get out your atlas or ask for help to get a map of the world off the internet.
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PUBLIC service
announcements
2013
BRAIN
TEASER
SUDOKU PUZZLE #19/2013
US company recalls Supplement The US company that makes the nutritional supplement Benefiber Powders, has pulled the product off the store shelves. The recall, which includes products sold in Belize, is for specific batches and is related to a high number of complaints by consumers about a lack of odor, lack of flavour, bad dissolution and the presence of particles. The company has emphasized to the Ministry of Health that there has been no evidence of any adverse effects or complaints relating to the use of this product. Belizean consumers, who wish to take action on this voluntary recall warning, are asked to either destroy or return the unused portion of the product to the local store from which it was bought.
See answers NEXT WEEK
REACH launches grassroots initiative REACH, a new NGO focused on Research, Education and Advocacy for Social Change, launched its first major initiative, imagine Nation, to provide a unique platform for Belizean youth to tell their powerful stories about community self-evaluation, social change and youth empowerment through the arts. This initiative bears considerable importance in context of expert research findings regarding male neglect and the rapid escalation in social violence experienced over the past few years. Ty Johnson, a high school student participating in imagine Nation says, ‘Belize finds itself at a critical juncture. I believe that by documenting and telling the story of how our social environ-
Answers for last week’s puzzle SUDOKU PUZZLE SOLUTION #18/2013
ment is affecting our dreams, frustrations and outlook we can inspire a grassroots movement for positive empowerment of the youth.’ imagine Nation will present an art exhibition and poetry performance that captures the spirit and vision of our youth. A total of fifteen youth participated in this progressive initiative. REACH plans to expand this platform for youth expression by fostering meaningful discussion about issues of top importance to the youth using social media. Partnerships and collaboration with other organizations, such as the Image Factory, are a core element of REACH’s mission and plans for expansion. To learn more about the imagine Nation launch and REACH please visit our website www.reachbelize.net.
Answers for last week’s puzzle
See answers NEXT WEEK
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BELIZE TIMES WEEKLY
SCIENCE & TECH R
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Selected By Chris Williams
Itch protein may hold key to cure for skin conditions 23 May 2013 by Douglas Heaven It makes you scratch just thinking about it. Sunburn and insect bites add up to a typical summer holiday cocktail of sensations, but how we distinguish between heat, pain and itching has remained a mystery. Now a protein has been found that seems to play a central role in itching. The discovery could shed light on all three sensations, as well as providing new treatments for chronic skin conditions. In 2010, Mark Hoon at the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research in Bethesda, Maryland, and colleagues killed selected nerve cells in the spines of mice, creating animals that lacked the ability to feel hot, painful or itchy sensations. As a result, these mice also lost a protein called neuropeptide natriuretic polypeptide B (NPPB) that is expressed by cells in the nerve pathways between the skin and spinal cord. NPPB is more commonly linked to the heart, says Hoon, which secretes it under stress to control sodium levels in the blood.
To investigate its role in sensory nerves, Hoon’s team genetically engineered mice to lack the protein. By placing the mice on hot glass and poking them with a blunt needle, they found that the mice responded to temperature and mild pain in the same way as mice who still had the protein. But the genetically engineered mice showed a
dramatically reduced response when various compounds that cause itching, including histamine, were applied to their skin. Injecting NPPB directly into mice’s skin produced no effect. But injecting it into the spine made both the genetically engineered and ordinary mice scratch themselves rapid-
ly with their hind paws. “Unless you have a high-speed camera you don’t see the individual scratches,” says Hoon. Finally, when the team destroyed NPPD receptors in the spine of healthy mice, they barely responded to the itch-inducing chemicals. Unmet need Andrew Todd at the University of Glasgow, UK, is excited by the newly identified circuitry. “It’s almost too good to be true,” he says. “Itch is very important because it’s a major unmet clinical need.” As well as be-
Stratfor hacker faces 10 years in jail after pleading guilty guardian.co.uk, Wednesday 29 May 2013
A self-described anarchist and hacker activist has pleaded guilty in the US to charges he illegally accessed computer systems of law enforcement agencies and government contractors. Prosecutors had alleged that Jeremy Hammond took part in cyber-attacks carried out by Anonymous, the loosely organised worldwide hacking group that stole confidential information, on groups including the global intelligence firm Stratfor. Hammond was accused of defacing websites and temporarily putting some victims
out of business. Hammond was caught in 2012 with the help of Hector Xavier Monsegur, a famous hacker known as Sabu who later helped police infiltrate Anonymous. “As part of each of these hacks, I took and decimated confidential information stored on computer systems websites used by each of the entities,” Hammond told a judge in federal court in Manhattan. He faces up to 10 years in prison when he is sentenced on 6 September. WikiLeaks published much
of the material Hammond is accused of having stolen. Wikileaks chief Julian Assange responded to the guilty plea on Tuesday with a statement saying: “The Obama administration’s treatment of Jeremy Hammond is a disgrace.” A criminal complaint had accused Hammond of pilfering information relating to more than 850,000 people via his attack on Texas-based Strategic Forecasting, the publisher of geopolitical information known as Stratfor. He was also accused of using the credit card numbers of Stratfor clients to make charges of at least $US700,000. Hammond, 28, once campaigned
ing a symptom of skin diseases, itching is also a side effect of treatment with opiate drugs. “There’s a funny relationship between pain and itching,” says Todd. Scratching replaces an itching sensation with pain. Conversely, morphine suppresses pain but promotes itching, he says. Hoon hopes that his findings will be taken up by researchers looking for new treatments for itchy skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. But since NPPB is so closely linked to processes in the heart, it is unlikely to be used as a direct target for itch-relieving drugs. Instead, Hoon hopes to identify other proteins that play similar roles – possibly in sensations of heat and pain too.
against plans to hold the 2016 Olympics in Chicago because he felt it would hurt low-income people. He had also protested against neo-Nazi groups. A website run by his supporters has described Hammond as “one of the few true electronic Robin Hoods”. But prosecutors called him a menace. Hammond, who used online aliases such as “crediblethreat” and “yohoho”, once described himself as “an anarchist communist”, the complaint said. his brother, Jason Hammond, said in a statement: “Jeremy has taken responsibility for what he’s done, but he should not face such a harsh sentence for an act of protest from which he did not personally benefit.”
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Land of the Free Part 2 Land of the free! What does it mean to be free? Nothing is for free. If it didn’t cost you, it’s costing someone else! When you steal something, someone else has to pay. In our beautiful country, the national anthem boasts of our freedom. What are we free from? Do we behave as if we are free or do we behave as an animal on a leash that has no idea he is free and therefore restricts himself from a better life, living in one constant circle day after day? Belize is a young country, but sadly, a naïve young country that only goes as far as boasting of her wealth but nothing more. We function as if the wealth flows from a never ending spring and carelessly manage it. Come, we say to one and all, come enjoy the land of the free….. But free for what I say? Free to call our borders artificial? Free to run ships onto the reef? Free to ship drugs through? Free to cut our xate leaves? Free to cut our rosewood? Free to mine our gold? Free to take our oil? Free to shave down our Maya ruins? Free to take as much land as you need? Free to borrow millions and not repay? Free to jack the businessmen after you hangout on the streets whole day? Free to sell drugs? Free to kill for hire or revenge? Free to change our laws to suit your personal agenda? Nothing is free. Everything costs something and values something. Because of this “free sickness” in the “land of the free”, there is an expectation that the kingdom of God functions the same way. Sorry to disappoint you, but the kingdom of God does not suffer from this free sickness. Because of this, many people struggle. I remember being invited as a panelist/ guest speaker at a school, and a young man asked an interesting question. “Why does the Bible contradict itself?” he asked, “it does this so often that it’s difficult for me to understand!” Well, let me put it this way. The bible is not Belize. It says, “who the Son sets free is free indeed”, for example, but after you are set free you are not free to live as you please! There are clear, strict directions in order to walk the narrow road. One must follow these instructions to make it safely to the other side and failure to complete this successfully results in eminent destruction! Why is the scripture like this? Well, let’s consider our country. You are free to do as you please, but if you deny or break certain laws (at least for some of us), you will be tried and put behind prison doors although you are free! In other words, you have freedom of choice but also the country reserves the freedom of choosing the consequences for the choices you make. Oh and by the way, I mentioned in brackets earlier (at least for some of us) as it seems that your level of freedom varies depending on your name and connection with certain reigning politicians! I must further complicate the theological contradictions because it does stress in the Manual that who you know will also give you an edge in the Kingdom. In fact, it will give you ‘ACCESS’ to the kingdom. In the manual (Matthew 7:21-23), it clearly states not everyone who comes and says ‘Lord Lord’ will enter the kingdom but those who ‘DO’ the WILL of the father!7 Until next week God Bless!
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2013
Rheumatoid Arthritis Rheumatoid Arthritis is a systemic and chronic inflammatory process that usually affects multiple joints (joints of the hands, wrists, By Dr. Francis Smith shoulders, hips, knees and feet) on both sides of the body. Arthritis is a term that means inflammation of a joint. An inflamed joint will usually be reddish in colour, warm, swollen and painful. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease which affects the lining or synovial membrane of the joints causing excess synovial fluid to build up, which gradually causes erosion of the cartilage and bone deformity. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues. Signs and Symptoms: • M o r n i n g stiffness, worse after getting out of bed and which gradually improves after warming up later in the day • Warm, painful, swollen joints(big and small joints) on both sides of the body • Rheumatoid nodules which are hard lumps under the arm skin, usually by the elbow • Fever, fatigue and weight loss • Preferentially affects the small joints of the hand Painful arthritic crises may come and go, causing flare-ups of unbearable pain for a period of time which may be followed by a period of gradual fading away of the pain, to a period when there is barely any pain at all. These cycles of flare-up and remission may continue and eventually lead to bony deformity and stiffness of the joints (bow-legs or knocked-knees). Risk Factors: - Gender (women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis than men) - Age (most commonly occurs between the ages of 40 and 60) - Family history Physical Examination and Tests: It is difficult to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis when symptoms first start appearing. Usually the diagnosis will be made after the doctor finds redness, warmth and swelling in joints especially the knuckles of the hands, when the patient complains of morning stiffness and loss of mobility especially after getting out of bed in the early morning, and when there is a family history of rheumatoid arthritis. The doctor will order blood tests which will include an erythrocyte sedimentation rate, rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies. X-rays of the joints may also be recommended. Treatment There is no cure. Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms and preventing joint damage. The most common medications used are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) which may relieve pain and reduce inflammation. These include ibuprofen, diclofenac, napoxen, celebrex and others. There are also stronger medications like corticosteroids such as cortisone and prednisone. The doctor determines when to use other medications such as methotrexate, Arava, Plaquenil, Enbrel and Humira, which may slow down the progress of the disease but have many side-effects. In addition to drug therapy, there is occupational and physical therapy, psychotherapy and orthopaedic surgery. Diet therapy, special clothing and health spa treatments should also be considered.
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THEBELIZE BELIZETIMES TIMES THE
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Imagine NATION by Katie Usher
“Imagine all the people living life in peace” ~ John Lennon There is a new art and social initiative being presented from Belize City. Several young artists and poets have joined forces to portray Belize through their lens and viewpoints. Arrrt Team and Youth Voices have collaborated efforts to showcase an art exhibit and poetry performance Imagine Nation at the Image Factory Art Gallery. The exhibit is supported by REACH, a newly established NGO that focuses on “Research, Education and Advocacy for Social Change”. It is backed by a group of concerned Belizeans with expertise in social research and development. The mission of REACH is to foster community self-evaluation, social change and more informed policy and decision-making through high quality social research. I got a sneak peak of some of the works exhibited at the Image Factory Art Gallery. I will admit, unabashedly, that these young artists have inspired me to reconsider and fortify my conceptual and graphic discourse. Confronted with the crime climate that has washed the Belizean shores and continued inland, destroying and compromising every peaceful corner, like a tsunami, I have been hardly inspired to make art, consume art or even discuss art. These young artists have instead used the scarred, parched and violent wasteland as the materia prima to create some of the most powerful drawings, graphic designs, comic strips and photographs that I have seen in a while. This is one show that each Belizean woman, man and child deserves to see. See and digest with ready eyes and ears. Though we have verbalized our discontent with the violence in Belize, we have failed to address the greatest of all violence. We have allowed our youths’ education to become clouded by the fog of preoccupation for their general safety. We have allowed
our nation to transform into one where their dreams have been replaced by nightmares, in which they dodge bullets. Education is still not free, though more and more Belizeans are faced with unemployment and their children’s hope of higher education is dashed to the wind. In the face of this dim reality which is a Belize riddled with bullet holes, desperation and limited opportunities, it is beyond refreshing to see Belizean youth create art with powerful discourse- a peacefully imagined nation of sorts. Imagine Nation opens Friday May 31, 2013 at 7pm and features a poetry performance by Youth Voices. The exhibit will run for one month.
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2013
FLEECING
PUBLIC FUNDS IN OW
Money Paid to the company of Imer Hernandez, cousin of Deputy Prime Minister Gaspar Vega, for paving of San Antonio Road in OW... but NO PAVING happened. WHERE IS THE MONEY?
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THE BELIZE TIMES
2013
Gaspar Vega Again!
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Vega’s Nephew collected $179,000 for paving of OW road, but no work done
Orange Walk Town, May 24, 2013 Orange Walk Town residents, specifically those living on San Antonio road are demanding to know where is the $179,957 paid to Imer Hernandez, the nephew of Deputy Prime Minister, for the paving of San Antonio Road. The payments were done to “Imer Hernandez Development Company” by the Ministry of Works for among other things, the scarification of the existing pavement on San Antonio, supply and compact mat on the road and double surface dressing. This is at a total payment of $179,957. The payment invoice for the Minis-
Mr. “not normal” Gaspar Vega
try of Works confirms that the work was “executed”, but for the residents of San Antonio Road, there is another reality. No such thing happened! The residents have been enduring the hellish environment contaminated by dust that causes sickness and infection. Documents show that payments were made to Hernandez’ company since February 24 2012, but today, a whole year later, no construction has started. “Before we used to have some asphalt on it then little by little they went on grading it and grading it and then they put in some white marl then eventually the entire asphalt was graded off - then we only have white marl and dust. Improvements hasn’t been done, ever,” resident Joel Cervantes told the media. Another resident, Norma Carillo, said she saw some persons doing small inspection just before elections, but af-
ter the elections no one came back. “…they started to measure the road and wet it a bit and put some dirt and when the rain came they took it off again and after elections everyone left. I don’t know what happened,” she said. What happened is that Hernandez didn’t complete the work. His company has denied the reports, but it is hard to dispel allegations based on credible documents that were leaked out of Belmopan’s offices. Another interesting document shows that Hernandez also benefitted from a $178,000 contract from the Solid Waste Management Authority to push and compact garbage for
Faber assaults Police Officer Belize City, May 27, 2013 Former UDP chairman Patrick Faber has become more bitter and erratic since losing his bid for Deputy Leader to Dean Barrow’s choice, Gaspar Vega. This past Sunday, Faber took his rancorous behavior to Hattieville where the village council elections were being held. During the elections, the UDP’s Education Minister Faber couldn’t help himself but get in rabid exchanges with the women of the village who found him to be an obnoxious little politician. During an exchange with one of the women, Faber even hit her with a flag stick which he carried on his shoulder. When other rabid UDPs arrived, Faber’s sour attitude worsened. He turned his venom on the
Police who struggled to maintain order. In one instance, Faber’s temperature shot up the roof when he saw a group of voters entering the gate to join the voter’s line. Faber approached the Police Officer, who was manning the gate, menacingly, and began lecturing the officer. The officer was shaken, and in a moment had to hold back himself, when he was pushed by the UDP politician. Faber’s disrespect was in plain view, before hundreds of Hattieville residents who had gathered outside the polling station. It is not clear whether Faber was under the influence of some kind of beverage, but his actions do indicate that he is a man who is drunk with power and who has gotten bitterly mad.
four week at Mile 3 on the George Price Highway in Belize City. Whether Hernandez did the work is not confirmed, but we’re sure he collected. A recently published report on Government contracts also indicates that Hernandez was granted a $2m contract
Vega’s nephew Imer Hernandez
for several road paving works in Benque Viejo, San Ignacio and Santa Elena and Punta Gorda. Gaspar Vega’s family sure gets buttering from this UDP Government.
BTIA rejects Crawl Caye proposal Continued from page 1 Neither is the project logical according to tourism experts. Three years ago, the Government hired consultants to evaluate tourism development in Southern Belize. The recommendations were explicitly against large cruise ports. The BTIA used this evaluation as one of the reasons supporting their opposition. “By opening the Southern portion of the country to large scale cruise ship visitation, the proposal fundamentally contradicts the country’s tourism master plan and irrevocably positions Belize as a mass tourism destination. This 180 degree shift from Belize’s identity as an authentic ecocultural destination is inexplicable in view of the uninterrupted success of Belize’s dynamic overnight tourism sector,” stated the BTIA’s press release. The BTIA added that a cruise development in Southern Belize would detract tourism development in Belize City, where significant investments are underway as part of a major tourism plan. This would mean job losses to “tour operators, guides, tender owners, bus drivers, taxis, craft sellers and other service providers”, said the release. The BTIA has called on Cabinet “to reject the proposed project outright and immediately”. “The cruise port would
Minister of Tourism Manuel Heredia
cause to its pristine marine surroundings and the potential of Belize being de-certified from UNESCO as a World Heritage Site…it is clear that the proposal is totally incompatible with the sustainable development of Belize’s vital tourism industry,” declared the BTIA. But it doesn’t seem the UDP will listen. Cabinet, we are told, is already prepared to give the project the green light despite the 2010 expert advice against that kind of development. This permission could be granted as early as next week, as big wig UDPs who have interests in this project are pushing hard for it to happen. These “special interest” UDPs are the ones who are fronting for the project proposal in Belize and have been holding secret meetings with tourism officials and UDP Ministers to get the project going with no involvement or consultation with tourism stakeholders.
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