Belize Times May 19, 2013

SCAN HERE

The Belize Times

Established 1957

19 MAY 2013

|

ISSUE NO: 4845

The Truth Shall Make You Free

www.belizetimes.bz

|

$1.00

No More Noh Mul!

UDP Politician Destroys 2,300 Year Old Mayan Site

Pg. 3

Cultural Genocide Strike 2!!

Pg. 6

Police shoot to kill Pg. 31

Rasheed Elijio

2 02

OPINION

OUT

Mayor Bradley’s war on northern Belize

OUT Audrey Matura Shepherd cautions Mayor Darrel Bradley

!

19 MAY

THE BELIZE TIMES

Dear Editor, Allow me to address this letter as an open letter to the mayor of Belize City, Mr. Darrel Bradley.

Honorable Mayor

Bradley, I have become concerned at the reports that you, the Mayor of the City, an attorney by profession and a Christian is refusing to obey the ruling of the Supreme Court handed down in the Judicial Review claim brought

by Coye’s Funeral Home against the City Council. I am addressing you openly on this matter because several times I have heard you make erroneous statements on the law and kept quiet, but on the issue of obeying a court order, that you consented to, I cannot sit by in silence. Further, I think it would be wantonly irresponsible of me not to call you out on this one because there seems to be developing a critically bad trend of political leaders not wanting to obey orders of the court and it is best for you be given an opportunity to heed the warnings that are going in a wayward direction.

Not because the Prime Minister has deemed it okay to be dismissive of court rulings against the Government should you follow that path, but in your case don’t forget you personally represented the City Council and stood before Justice Legall, consented to the order that the funeral home of David Coye had a right to “continue to provide at liberty…” his undertaking services, violation of which I deem even more offensive. As attorneys, we both know it is important to be law-abiding in all we do because Continued on page 30

!

Dear Editor, On February 21, 2013, the Mayor of Belize City effectively declared war on the residents of northern Belize by expressing his intent to toll the portion of the Philip Goldson Highway leading into Belize City. Thankfully the Minister of Works (the Hon. Rene Montero) has stepped in and put an end (at least for the time being) to the Mayor’s plan. The residents of northern Belize should remain alert none-the-less, because CITCO may still be plotting on how to get its hands on their money.

The Mayor, in attempting to justify his taxation on the residents of northern Belize, declared that non-residents of Belize City pour into his city, use its services and pay nothing for it. Wow! It appears that the Mayor has forgotten that his council receives an annual subvention from GOB. Where does he thinks that money comes from?

The levying of what is in effect a Belize City entrance fee is tantamount to economic warfare against the rest of the country! Imagine what kind of Belize we would have if every municipality began charging non-residents for the use of “their services”. Belize is a single country and citizens should be free to go to every part without having any Mayor dipping his hands into their pockets.

Interestingly, in response to the legitimate concern raised by some, that in order to toll a thoroughfare there must be an alternate route, the Mayor cited the San Pedro and the Orange Walk examples. However none of these can be properly compared to what he is attempting to do. In the case of the “Toll Bridge”, the toll was meant to recoup the cost of a bridge built by Central Government on a national highway, the toll is not a charge by the Mayor of OW for use of “services”. It might be helpful to note that the cost of the bridge has long

National Garifuna Council supports Mayor Gilbert Swaso in land dispute

!

Dear Editor, The Dangriga Branch of NGC supports Mayor Gilbert Swaso in his efforts to keep the parcel of land by the bridge foot at North Riverside as public property, for the use of the PEOPLE OF DANGRIGA now and for the generations yet to come. This has always been used as a Gathering Place for our people and for the vendors from town and the rural areas.

This piece of land was once called Jones Wharf, Mule Park and then it was renamed Carlos Nolberto Park, in honor of Mr. Carlos Nolberto, a former Mayor of our town, and father of Ms. Alexia Nolberto).

ABOVE ALL ELSE, we have used this piece of land to stage the RE-ENACTMENT of the Arrival of our Garifuna People to these shores. Therefore this strip of land is of great Historical and Cultural importance to the PEOPLE of Dangriga and we call on the Government and the Ministry of Natural Resources to refrain from giving this JEWEL OF DANGRIGA to any individual. Let us ALL support our Mayor and the Dangriga Town Council in this struggle and let us pray that they arrive at an amicable solution to this matter.

Stay strong, Mayor!

Mrs. Phyllis Cayetano President, Dangriga Branch National Garifuna Council

since been recouped but the toll continues; and it has now formed a part of the recurrent revenues of GOB. In the case of San Pedro you have an intra-municipal toll (that is the equivalent of charging a toll to cross Belcan, Belchina or the Swing Bridge) not a toll to enter San Pedro!

The San Pedro toll, apart from helping to repay the loan from Sir Barry, was also a condition for the support Continued on page 30

weather

LOCAL 17 May

18 May

19 May

20 May

2621Mar May

27 Mar May 6 22 Feb

2013

BDF musicians being neglected

!

Dear Editor, Musicians who are playing for almost three years in the Belize Defence Force Band are concerned about their fate. These musicians are concerned as they traveled throughout this country with the Band and believe that they should enjoy the same privileged that other members would enjoy in the event something goes wrong.

All they ask is that they be attested to the BDF’s Volunteer Element.

Nobody seems to know what is the hold up for their attestation, but they note that those that played Football for the force seem to have no problem being attested into the Volunteer Element. The Ministry of Defence needs to address this issue most urgently.

The Belize Defence Force Band is the only military marching band and consists of volunteer noncombatant musicians that provide music for all ceremonial and military parades on behalf of the Force.

Hope the new commander of the Belize Defence Force takes action.

Joseph Bach Concerned musician

SCAN HERE

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

Chris Williams

OFFICE ASSISTANT

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

Email: belizetimesadvertisement@yahoo.com

editortimes@yahoo.com

Exchange rate of One Belize Dollar

United States (USD): $ 0.4963

Barbados Eastern Caribbean (BBD): $ 0.9927 (XCD):$ 1.3411

Euro (EUR) : $ 0.3857

Sterling Pound Guatemala Quetzal CANADIAN DOLLAR CHINESE YUAN Trinidadian (TTD) INDIAN RUPEE (GBP): $ 0.3261 (GTQ): $ 3.8599 (CAD): $ 0.5045 (CNY): $ 3.0521 : $ 3.1812 (INR): $ 27.174

19 MAY

2013

THE BELIZE TIMES

No More Noh Mul! Belize City, May 16, 2013 In a rushed and shameless attempt to carry out late and last minute repairs to village roads in order to win votes in the upcoming village council elections, a UDP politician’s construction company desecrated a world-recognised Mayan site.

An entire week after Denny Grijalva’s heavy-duty equipment was caught

by CTV-3 News of Orange Walk clawing desperately into the 2,300 year old Mayan mound known as Noh Mul for the removal of limestone, no one has been detained nor charged. It appears that because this case involves a UDP politician and because the embattled Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources Gaspar Vega is implicated, the wheels of justice are barely turning.

There has been global outrage at the act. Countless international news agencies, from CNN to Fox News, NBC and National Geographic, have reported on the incident, accusing Belizeans of having lost respect for the kind of cultural heritage treated as treasures elsewhere.

The two men involved – Grijalva and Vega – have put out lame and half-baked excuses. The Deputy Prime Minister has thrown Grijalva under the bus. Vega has gone on record to claim that his Ministry

did not issue a license to excavate the Noh Mul site. But Vega has not explained who gave permission to Grijalva or whether he was aware that the former pastor/UDP politician had been given orders to repair roads in his Orange Walk North constituency. We doubt he was oblivious to this fact, as Vega has been boasting about repairing roads to his constituents.

Grijalva accepted responsibility for the “very unfortunate incident” in a statement issued yesterday afternoon. He claimed ignorance about what was going on and said his foreman who operated the machinery on top of the mound sought permission for the private landowner before excavating the site. Grijalva seemed to justify the act by claiming that excavation has been going on at the site for about a decade. The UDP has been in office for almost six years.

Guilty!

In the public’s view, all persons involved in the demolition of the Mayan mound must face severe punishment. Grijalva’s acceptance of the “condemnation” is evidence that he is principally involved.

Section 61 of the National Institute of Culture and History Act states that anyone who removes “earth or stone” from any ancient monument without a permit is liable to a fine of $1,000 or to 1 year prison time, or both.

03 3 Section 62 and 66 of the same Act declares that anyone who wilfully damages or destroys an ancient monument or destroys or removes artefacts is liable to $5,000 or 2 years prison time, or both.

We have been informed that these fines are per act of destruction and not for Section 65 gives the authorities permission to forfeit vehicles such as construction equipment used in any of the offences.

An exploration of the Mines and Minerals Act provides the rules and regulations for the use of any area in Belize for the purposes of a quarry, which is what Grijalva’s company turned Noh Mul into.

It first indicates in Part V, Section 81 (2), that any area defined as a public quarry must be approved by the Minister of Natural Resources and then published in the gazette. Furthermore, the Act gives special provisions for the protection of cultural resources like Noh Mul in order for it not to be damaged or exploited.

This provision indicates that the Minister must take into account whether an area has natural or cultural value.

It is clear that apart from desecrating our cultural history and heritage, the UDP politician also broke the law at many levels.

All sorts of investigations have been launched by the authorities and even Grijalva who claims he will carry out his own investigation into himself.

4 04

PUP commits to defending rights of Village Leaders 30 April 2013 Yesterday, May 12, 2013 Village Council Elections were held in 44 communities representing all six districts countrywide as follows: - 7 in the Corozal District - 4 in the Orange Walk District - 8 in the Belize District - 5 in the Cayo District - 7 in the Stann Creek District - 13 in the Toledo District The People’s United Party (PUP) is pleased to report that it endorsed and supported the elections in 28 of these communities. In 10 of the 28 communities all 7 candidates were successful. Some 8 communities were split, and a majority of the winning candidates from 5 of these communities are either

supported by the PUP or have Chairpersons endorsed by the PUP. The Village Council leaders have expressed their support and willingness to work along with our Party and the duly elected representatives of the People’s United Party. The PUP embraces this working partnership as the Party seeks to bring TRUE DEVELOPMENT to these village communities.

The People’s United Party congratulates all the participants and thanks all those who voted for or supported the Party in any way towards its efforts in search of True Development for Belizeans. The PUP will not allow a UDP Government to deny Village Communities the resources they so badly need to provide residents with a better quality of life. The PUP pledges to do all in its power to stand up and fight for these communities.

Mother’s Day in Corozal Bay

By Roberto Pasos On Saturday, May 11, 2013, mothers from the Corozal Bay Constituency were given a treat by the People’s United Party (PUP) Corozal Bay Executive to commemorate Mother’s Day – a day that is dedicated to all mothers for the sacrifices and love given to their loved ones.

Mothers in attendance were entertained by local artists; treated with food and refreshments; treated with a gift; and had a chance to win the grand raffle that included a round trip to San Pedro with food and hotel for a weekend.

The event of course could not have been possible without the cooperation from the business community in Corozal Town, friends, supporters and members of the PUP Corozal Bay Executive Committee.

19 MAY

THE BELIZE TIMES

The executive committee is committed to continue spearheading such events and living up to the Party’s creed which is “To Serve The People”.

2013

Cow Pen Chairman

Members of new Cow Pen Village Council

Newly-elected Chairman Tony Zabaneh (L) & Emilio Zabaned meeting supporters (R)

19 MAY

2013

THE BELIZE TIMES

05 5

EDITORIAL

T

UNFORGIVEABLE

he sentiments of all right-thinking Belizeans have been expressed in superlatives and sometimes expletives, as we are disgusted by the “Talibanistic” destruction of a two thousand year old Mayan building. A priceless part of our national soul has been irreparably gouged by the actions of this group of UDP plunderers. Our agony has been amplified to produce undiluted venom towards this heinous act. The unexplainable stupidity, greed and laziness is going to be sustained by the international humiliation, which looms over our country.

It is difficult to rank the desecration of Noh Mul, amongst the unforgivable political and cultural sins of Belizean History but it is safe to say that the loss of Noh Mul is as bad as the tomb raiding of the crystal skull which was found in Belize by Anna Hedges at Lubaantun.

On a comparative local scale of un-retractable historical losses, Noh Mul’s bulldozing is our idiot secured version of the pillaging of the Egyptian pyramids.

To think that we have forever lost the incalculable benefit of this Mayan archeological site because a UDP politician wanted to build a road is mind boggling. A road? And to add insult to injury that the reason for the road was to win the smallest level of elections i.e. village council. This is simply unbelievable.

At a very important time in the Mayan lifecycle which recently marked the end of the 2012 mayan calendar, this is how the Government respects the rich culture of the mayans. Fresh on the heels of the “year of the Maya” and the dawn of the new “baktun”, the largest Mayan Monument in Northern Belize, the very ceremonial center of Noh Mul was ravaged for road fill. Unfathomable.

We tremble to think of what other unreported evils have been suffered on the cultural heritage left to us by our Mayan brothers and sisters years before Jesus Christ was even born. What is clear, however, is that there is a history of the UDP and destruction of mayan sites.

So deep that UDP’s Channel 7, was forced to remind us that their Party boasts a long history of these very same unthinkable actions. Fred Martinez, failed UDP politician and now Belize Ambassador to Guatemala, is documented as carving out a chunk of Noh Mul like it was a piece of wedding cake. A “Campos” is fingered as well by Plus TV investigations.

Then we learnt that George Guest, Chairperson of Crooked Tree, has been begging the media to visit his village where he protests and believes that something is afoul with road projects in the division of Edmund “Clear the Land” Castro, in which white-marl is being removed from Blackburn. He warns us that the UDP have ravaged other tombs in Crooked Tree particularly “Chaa Xich”. Guest has reported this to NICH who are yet to return after nine months when they said they would conduct a “vigorous investigation”.

Then Former PUP Mayor Chanona furnished the media with evidence that UDP controlled operatives had taken a parcel of land designated an archeological reserve in Belmopan and destroyed it by sub-dividing it into eight residential lots for sale.

The themes of these tales are chilling when we gaze depressingly into the economic and cultural “what if ’s” because we listened to Archeological representatives on Channel 5’s morning show tell us that National Geographic rates Belize as having the highest concentration of archeological sites per square mile than any other place in the world next to Iraq. This is staggering and frightening in light of the caveman-like greed of the UDP. We have not fully excavated the damage of their track record.

Noh Mul or “Big Hill” is recorded as first being revealed in 1897. It was marked and designated as a archeological site with signs and markers but like many of Belize’s Maya cultural treasures it has been pillaged for artifacts, most of which were taken to England.

The recent demolition of roughly 80% of the largest standing structure of Noh Mul is not the first desecration of the site for road fill material. The first recorded incident was in 1940 and then 1998 under the auspices of the UDP administration.

The national embarrassment is almost unbearable as Belize takes blow after blow in the International media from Australia, Japan, Mexico, Britain, the Caribbean, Canada, and the USA. Belize is front and center in the world spotlight for “cultural genocide”.

But the response to the UDP’s barrage of insulting press releases and pretentious finger pointing was best represented on the social media where the fury was almost palpable.

The social media was an accurate indicator of how deeply Belizeans at home

and abroad have been diminished by the horrendous actions of the UDP. Our BELIZE TIMES PRESS facebook account lit up with over 100 shares and 10,000 views combined on this single issue alone over less than 9 hours.

We share with you a sample of the comments: “When we see people the UDP see VOTES. When we see culture the UDP see profits. Where we see sacred Mayan temples, the UDP see money for ROADS” “What do international oil companies think when they hear of this kind of destruction? what will be OUR response? Not by the UDP Government, we know what they will do, but as a people. What happens when an off shore oil company drills for oil on the reef? what will we do? Let us set an example now!”

“A listener to the Rise n Shine morning show texted in and asked “will the UDP use Altun Ha to fix the Maskall Road?”

“My point is I don’t want to hear from the politicians, I can predict what they will say. Their tongue is their sin. I don’t want to hear from the Government, it is time for them to LISTEN to what the people are saying and ACT accordingly and IF they do not listen then it is time for the people to ACT. This formula has been missing in Belize. Utopia? Yes. But necessary? Vital! The people’s voice is taken as inconsequential I bet you no one thought of hearing from the church, teachers, public servants in the BNTU and PSU. The people who teach our children right and wrong daily. The people who are institutionally affected by this. Our youth who have lost this cultural asset. How about the international community like the diplomatic corp, who are hanging their heads in shame in the corridors of Washington, New York and London at the coverage we are getting yet still have to ask the international community for the respect. Chuuuuups......this is affecting our very Belizeaness...”

To say that the penalty for all of this is just a measly $10,000 fine is an insult when a man who stole $13 dollars in biscuits got 7 years in jail. When Raul Magana of Rose Garden was fined twenty-three thousand dollars for having workers without Immigration work permits. Compare it to the fact that the Government of Belize received over $11.5 million in compensation from the ship, Westernhaven.

This was because on January 13, 2009 that ship ran aground negligently on the reef and damaged 6000 square meters of the reef. The reef, we compare, is a living ecosystem and can regenerate itself over decades but a Mayan temple cannot.

If the going rate is $11.5 mil per 6000 square meters of a renewable natural resource why is the UDP saying that worst case scenario someone will pay $10,000 for a priceless structure which was around for 2,300 years? This translates to them saying that Grijalva who said he would apologize for Gaspar Vega, will be fined $4.35 per year.

The destruction is just the fruits of a poisoned tree, as the UDP have no respect for our people and our cultural heritage. We cite the disrespect to Garifuna community in Dangriga where Mayor Gilbert Swazo has been championing the fight against the disrespect to the Garifuna Community by the UDP. We recall that the UDP is attempting to sell away a piece of the rich Garifuna heritage by giving a sacred piece of land near to the Main Bridge. That portion of land has incalculable value to the Garifuna history and is connected to the great Carl Ramos. The historical value of that parcel of Belize’s cultural heritage in Dangriga is being bulldozed as well because the Garifuna Community uses it yearly to reenact the “yuremein” on November 19.

The Mayan culture has taken a slave master’s beating from the UDP. In fact, Gapi Vega’s UDP has just been sent a warning from The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) who diplomatically scolded the UDP for their treatment of the indigenous Mayans of Belize.

But we need to remind Belizeans that the disrespect is deeper. In our September 30, 2012 issue of this newspaper, and in the article “NICH Allows Porn Filming at Mayan Temple” on page 19 of that issue, we informed the public that UDP had allowed a film crew to shoot a porn movie on the temples at Xunantunich at a fee of $200 per hour.

Enough to blow your mind. Noh Mul is no more but there is a lesson to learn and a rich heritage to protect. Enough must be enough and we say this is simply unforgiveable. What will be worse is our prediction that not even the disrespectfully inadequate $4.35 per year will be paid by the UDP’s Grijalva, Vega, Campos, or Martinez.

This is proof that when the UDP win elections, Belize loses and the loss is most often irreparable; the regret deep and the shame unbearable.

The people will not allow them to do any more damage. Belize simply cannot afford it.

6 06

THE BELIZE TIMES

UB exploits students with new fees Belize City, May 16, 2013 The BELIZE TIMES has received numerous complaints from students of the University of Belize who claim that they feel financially exploited by the University.

The students informed us that on April 24th, just weeks prior to the 2013 graduation, the University issued a notice that in order for students to partake in the upcoming Graduation ceremony, they must pay a $200 Graduation Fee. This notice confused students, since upon registering at the University they had to pay a $125

Graduation Fee. Upon investigating, students learnt that the University arbitrarily added a new fee to its long list of financial requirements for students.

The $125 paid for by students when they had registered is now considered a “Completion Fee”.

The graduation fee is now $200.

In these hard times, it is a terrible thing for the University to place more financial burdens on its students. In January 2013, UB introduced also increased student fees for new students when the Ministry of Education ended its student fee subsidy to the University.

Cultural Genocide Strike 2!!

Belize City, May 15, 2013 The destruction of Noh Mul is déjà vu for the UDP. They have been found guilty of the exact crime before. Double jeopardy plays no role here. Attacking cultural heritage is like attacking an entire people, their history and significance. Guatemalan President Rios Montt was just convicted and sentenced to 80 plus years for that kind of crime.

It is definitely genocide of another kind. The UDP is guilty of that. Twice now. Back in 1998, the same Noh Mul was targeted by another UDP politico.

Back then Ambassador for life Alfredo Martinez was the man “bringing down the hatchet” on Mayan history, so to speak. As UDP candidate in Orange Walk North, Martinez hired a contractor who rammed into an important Noh Mul structure and excavated away, again to use the material for road fill.

It is now clearly dangerously pathological. Can the UDP explain how it didn’t know that it was Noh Mul when

they have committed the same crime at the same crime scene before?

Belizeans are resilient, forgiving people. But this time, it passed the mark.

The Maya will be less sympathetic. Prime Minister Dean Barrow and the UDP have already attacked their indigenousness. The UDP said, officially, that the Maya are not as important to Belize as we know they are. The UDP took this disrespectful argument before the Supreme Court, before the Chief Justice. The Court told the UDP they were wrong. But the UDP have not withdrawn their belief. PM Barrow has refused to apologise to the Maya people. Now, they have taken that threat to direct action.

Don’t expect the Prime Minister to show regret for Noh Mul’s destruction. To the UDP it was only a mountain standing in their way of political votes. Where will strike 3 be?

Be on the alert Belize.

Construction equipment owned by Denny Grijalva sits on top of Noh Mul after a stop order was issued on Friday

19 MAY

2013

X-Mas Day pick axe murder trial concludes Belmopan City, Cayo District, May 14, 2013 Today in the Belmopan Supreme Court, 35 year old Teakettle resident, Jose Garcia, was freed of the charge of murder after his Attorney, Kareem Musa, made a successful no case submission.

The submission came a week and a half into trial following a series of technical legal arguments surrounding the admissibility of a caution statement given by the accused, Jose Garcia, and the admissibility of a statement given by his former common-law wife.

After hearing submissions from the defence and the prosecution, the trial judge Justice Dennis Hanomansingh agreed with Musa’s sub-

Jose Garcia (left)

missions and ruled that the statements were inadmissible.

Jose Garcia was charged with the murder of Salvadoran national, Jesus Israel Alas, who died on the 24th of December, 2008.

Several witnesses were called for the prosecution, none of whom were able to link the accused to the murder of Alas.

In addressing the court, AttorContinued on page 31

19 MAY

2013

THE BELIZE TIMES

INTERNATIONAL DISGRACE

07 7

088

19 MAY

THE BELIZE TIMES

An incredible display of ignorance

It’s like being punched in the stomach, it’s just so horrendous

– Dr. John Morris

– Dr. Jaime Awe

photo by Tony Rath

Belize City, May 15, 2013 Belize’s eminent archaeologists have reacted strongly to the destruction of Noh Mul, one of Belize’s largest Mayan sites.

Dr. John Morris was called to the site on Friday May 10th after the Institute of Archaeology received a call from CTV-3 News in Orange Walk on Thursday about an excavation at a Maya mound. Dr. Morris did not know then that it was one

of the oldest and important Mayan sites that was being ravaged.

Since the discovery, the archaeologists have expressed outrage at the destruction.

Noh Mul is a Belizean treasure. It dates back to 2,500 years ago; built by the Mayans who used stone tools to quarry the rocks. The site, which sits in an area about 12 square miles, consists of twin ceremonial clusters surrounded by 10 plazas and connected by a raised causeway. Historians believe some 4,000 Mayans lived there between 500 and 250 BC. The site was first recorded in 1897 by Europeans.

Despite all the efforts to preserve the heritage, it has taken one single act of wanton recklessness to destroy it. Even worse, all the history has been lost.

“It’s a feeling of Incredible disbelief because of the ignorance and the insensitivity ... they were using this for road fill,” Awe said.

“It’s like being punched in the stomach, it’s just so horrendous.”

“We can’t salvage what has happened out here,” re-

PUP Northern Caucus condemns destruction of Noh Mul Press Release Noh Mul` On May 9th and 10th 2013, Demar’s Contracting Company, while doing road repairs in Douglas Village of the Orange Walk North Constituency, destroyed one of the tallest Maya Ruins in Northern Belize, Noh Mul (Big Hill). This structure was constructed by the Mayas thousands of years ago and was being demolished for its rich material to be used for road fill.

Demars’ Company is owned

by Orange Walk Central UDP Caretaker Denny Grijalva, who has been a favourite in receiving Government contracts for road repairs in both the Orange Walk and Corozal Districts.

The demolition of ancient

2013

Maya temples is deplorable as these are not only important elements of our Belizean history and culture but an integral component of a developing tourism industry.

The damage done to the Mayan temple will certainly diminish the growth of a tourism industry starting to develop in the northern districts, and will decrease the potential for much needed employment in the region.

The Northern Caucus of the People’s United Party strongly condemns the destruction and plundering of the ancient Maya Temple, Noh Mul, and calls on the government to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice and that the full extent of the law is applied.

marked John Morris, of the Institute of Archaeology. “It is an incredible display of ignorance. I am appalled.”

About 80% of the site was destroyed making any attempts at preservation futile.

Dr. Awe said it is likely that the coming rains will complete the crumbling of what’s left of the important Mayan site.

Even international archaeologist have expressed dismay at the news, which spread like wildfire on the international media.

Arlen Chase, who heads the Department of Anthropology at the University of Central Florida, said Noh Mul’s destruction is a great tragedy because there was much more to explore and learn about the site.

“A great deal of archaeology was undertaken at Noh Mul in the `70s and `80s, but this only sampled a small part of this large center,” he said.

Dr. Awe said that the destruction compels them to take full legal action against the culprits which includes the construction company owned by UDP Politician Denny Grijalva and the landowner who gave permission to access the property.

Marshalls On the Move All Marshalls and potential members of the Western Caucus/ Divisions.

You are invited to a very important meeting on Saturday May 18th, 2013 at Cahal Pech Resort in San Ignacio at 3:00pm sharp.

Come join our National President as we mobilise and organise this dynamic group. Let us continue to serve our great party and in so doing, SERVE THE PEOPLE!

19 MAY

09 9

THE BELIZE TIMES

2013

Henderson exposes UDP DNA Cayo District, May 14, 2013 Some people have no shame. Commission of Police David Henderson, under whose leadership crime escalated in record numbers, was prancing around in full regalia during the village council in Unitedville on Sunday.

The failed ComPol who was fired and then rehired by the UDP Government as the head of the Forensics Unit has shown his true colours, or perhaps his DNA. Henderson was galloping around the village wearing a red campaign shirt in support of UDP Chairman candidate Mike Juan. The shirt read in bold letters: “Always for Mike Juan” This explains why Henderson was such a useless ComPol. His loyalty is “Always” to the UDP and not the Belizean people.

There were cases, during ComPol Henderson’s tenure, when he failed to act on matters involving UDPs, and in one particular case, an assault allegation against Chairman Mike Juan.

As a senior public officer, Henderson should know better. He is flagrantly dis-

respecting Public Service rules prohibiting public officers, who are paid by tax payers, from becoming involved in political activities. Also, the Constitution Sec-

tion 121 stipulates that public officers should not (b) compromise the fair exercise of their public or official functions and duties or (f) allow their integri-

Dusty streets pose serious health risks Belize City, April 29, 2013 The ad hoc construction of paved streets throughout Belize City is raising an alert for health officials.

The uncontrolled and fast-spreading dust emanating from construction zones and cement poses dangerous health risks.

Health officials told the BELIZE TIMES that dust causes numerous health problems, such asthma and other respiratory infections, bronchitis and other throat infections, ‘pink-eye’, sinus and other allergic reactions and even chicken pox.

The health risks are greater among children.

Already, the BELIZE TIMES has learnt of several cases of pink eye and chicken pox in various parts of the city.

The problem lies in the absence of any construction plan. The Belize City Council seems to be paving streets without rhyme or reason. One here, two there, maybe another one there. In residential construction zones, no measures of containment are taken to protect residents from the dust. Not even a simple notice

Senior citizen lives in terror

Christopher Lamb Belize City, April 30, 2013 62 year old Christopher Lamb is calling on the Police to keep permanent presence in his neighborhood. If this is done, he says, a lot of criminal activity would be stopped.

Lamb, who resides on a street named after himself, just off Lacroix Boulevard in the Lake Independence area, says he lives in terror.

David Henderson showing his true colours!!

UDP Chairman Alberto August covers for Henderson

“Every night I lock up myself at home, in fear that someone will try to hurt me, or afraid that it could be my last night,” the senior citizen told the BELIZE TIMES. Lamb said he hears constant gunshots at night. He also says drug dealers are very active in his area.

And, because certain persons know he defends the law and calls the Police, they constantly threaten his life.

It has gotten so bad, Lamb says he barely sleeps at night.

He believes only the Police can put a stop to the criminal activity and he has asked the authorities to place a permanent outpost in the area.

Lamb said that he has turned to the media to let his story known because he believes he might be forced to defend his life one of these days.

is shared to warn residents that their street will become inaccessible and their clean air

ty to be called into question.

Where is the Public Service Commission? Where is the Integrity Commission? Most importantly, where is Henderson’s common sense?

will disappear.

Another major problem is that once paved, the streets are not swept.

Dust settles on cement pavement easily. When not swept away, it accumulates and spreads with the wind and car movement.

Pedestrians are most at risk. The Mayor, Councillors

and Ministers who drive around the city in the fancy, air conditioned SUVs have nothing to worry about.

Health officials say they plan to write the Council to advise them that control risk measures must be taken during construction before the entire city becomes sick.

10

THE BELIZE TIMES

What do you think about the destruction of the Noh Mul?

FACES & OPINIONS

19 MAY

2013

Ruben

Antuane

Judith

I believe that it should not have been destroyed because these Maya ruins and temples are a part of Belize’s history and they are very precious to our society and history.

I believe it could happen again. It is actually an example of how poorly our Mayan and other archaeological sites have been protected. It may still not be the last destruction because we lack education. This should be severely penalized in order to protect it from happening to other archaeological sites.

Student: General Studies E.P.Yorke

I think that the destruction of the Maya Ruin is a really bad situation because those ruins can help us to learn more about the Mayans and their culture.

Roneisha

Anadela

John

I believe it was very careless and irresponsible of the individual in charge to allow such an irreversible and unspeakable act to occur.

It puts a dent on our tourism sector and community.

Well it was a tragic thing to hear that one of our archaeological sites had been destroyed. It could have been a tourist attraction and it would have brought great income to our country even if it was on private property, it was still the property of our Belizean people.

Student: Science E.P.Yorke

Destine

Vanessa

It should not have been destroyed because it could have brought more tourists into our country.

I think that this was a very bad idea to have destroyed the ruin because it was built by our Mayan ancestors and it could have attracted tourists to our beautiful Belize.

Student: Business E.P.Yorke

Student: Science E.P.Yorke

Student: Business E.P.Yorke

Student: Business Nazarene High

IMAGINE THE DESPERATION

Like the UDP tactics in Chan Pine Ridge, Minister of National Saldivar John Saldivar took his intimidation to the Independence Village Council elections on Sunday

May 12, 2013 Chan Pine Ridge, Orange Walk District This is Village Council Elections season and the districts are conducting polls for the village representatives. The UDP are particularly desperate.

On Sunday May 12, 2013 villagers contacted the BELIZE TIMES to inform us that in Chan Pine Ridge, the UDP desperation was at fever pitch. So unpopular is the UDP in Orange Walk that Dean Oliver Barrow was running around like a chicken without head.

In fact, we are reliably informed that the UDP was leaning on and intimidating the electoral process in that small village. The report is that

there were several persons who were sent by the UDP who had only been living in Chan Pine Ridge for less than a month. They arrived at the polling booth with pieces of papers with the signature of a Justice of the Peace who is the father of the UDP candidate running for the post of Village Chairman. To make matters worse, this piece of paper arrived after the polling station had already been closed by law.

After the returning officer had finally agreed with all the scrutineers that these documents and the attendant persons should not be accepted, we are informed that none other than Dean Barrow showed up, went into the polling station and somehow got that final decision to be reversed.

Now this is incredibly sad and a

very bad sign of the level of desperation that the frenzy of the UDP is so blatant in a village where there was a total voter turn out of 265 votes.

Imagine the possibilities in a larger community where the voting population is more volatile. Two of the very important markers for how unpopular the UDP have become will be in Yo Creek and San Jose Palmar. We can imagine how roguish and aggressively desperate they will acting.

Shame on this Government. Shame on the UDP. Shame on Barrow.

Student: Academic Nazarene High

What they did was unacceptable.

They destroyed a historical site and Maya ruin. These archaeological attractions are one of the many reasons why tourists come to visit our country.

Student: Academic Science Nazarene High

Winston

It was a senseless act because they destroyed a part of Belize’s history. The ancient ruin of the Mayan people is a legacy of their culture and tradition. Now the younger generation will not know about that part of Belize’s history.

Student: Business Nazarene High

Price of Diesel jumps $10.00 Belize City, May 16, 2013 The price of Diesel increased at midnight on Wednesday taking the price of a gallon from $9.91 to $10.23.

Premium gas continues at $12.20 per gallon and Regular gas at $11.80.

As much as Belizeans are waiting for economic relief from the UDP Government, none seems to be coming their way.

19 MAY

2013

THE BELIZE TIMES

Gilroy Usher sponsors checkers competition in Port

Belize City, May 15, 2013 First place in the Belize City weekend checkers competition that was sponsored by Gilroy Usher, Sr. and Rufino Lin over the weekend was taken by Charlie Hyde from the Japan area in Ladyville.

Second place went to Rupert Vanzie aka “Lick Ford”. Third place in the event was awarded to retired teacher, Vanley Jenkins. Rufino Lin was also among the many other players who participated in the competition.

Sincere thanks is extended to Mr. Lincoln “Taylor” Clarke, who hosted the competition at his premises #6548 Cor. Central American Blvd. and Freedom St. In other news plans are in the making to host a national checkers competition for Fathers’ Day. Registration would be open to the first 32 players. For additional information about this competition interested persons can contact Mr. Lincoln Clarke at Tel: 602-2477 or #6548 Cor. Central American Blvd and Freedom St. in Belize City.

11 Mother’s Day Celeration in Corozal South West

Hon. Ramiro Ramirez hosted hundreds of Mothers to a special day in San Narciso and San Victor

12

Makoabi R

x:

SINGLE WOMEN’S SECRETS TO BODY READING Stumped by trying to decode the intentions of the devilishly handsome man who recently approached you? Here’s an inside look at decoding his body language:

1

His chest and shoulders face you, even when he’s looking at something else If it’s you or the Belikin in the corner, whatever a man aims his upper body at is the most meaningful thing in the room to him. If you are out with friends and a guy comes up, study his body language and you’ll know who caught his eye.

He holds a long, piercing gaze You think he’s enamored but it may be a move from his “playaz be pimpin seduction playbook”. It is unnatural to hold eye contact for longer than five seconds. If your “single ladies” “spidey senses” are tingling give him the boot.

2

He half smiles If you are not a one-night stand girl, steer clear of these no-strings fling Don Juans. Remember this: sneer-like grin = insincerity.

The lightning-quick eyebrow raise It happens in a flash but if a man sees someone he’s into, he’ll instinctively lift and lower his eyebrows.

4

5

He touches his belt or jeans pocket You’ve been conversing for a few minutes and you notice he keeps touching his belt, hangs his thumb off a front pocket or it seems his gestures generally are drawing your eyes downward. No, it isn’t your imagination he is drawing your attention to his “assets” either consciously or subconsciously.

6

He stands with his legs spread apart Do you think he has the “hots” for you? Well, if he is standing with his legs spread apart and pelvis facing you, it is highly likely. This harkens back to our evolutionary days and is as old as our instinct to mate. Most men aren’t aware they are doing it.

7

He smiles with his top lip stretched wide and his front teeth just barely peeking through It is the polite tight-lipped smile, the kind you may get from a bank teller. He likes your company but isn’t thinking about you in a romantic way. It’s your call to still pursue or graciously move on.

He has a coy, close-mouth grin that shows only at the corners of his upturned mouth This one is definitely different from the sneer-like grin and you’ll know it easily. Decoder: Yes, he is into, but he may be holding back unwilling to reveal all too quickly!

2013

For Sale

Relationships, Love Tips & Advice…

3

19 MAY

THE BELIZE TIMES

8

Only three more editions of Makoabi left. We hope you enjoy them all.

By Order of the Mortgagee

Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., a Company duly registered under the Companies Act, Chapter 250 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition, 2000, and having its registered office at Cor. Albert and Bishop Streets, Belize City, Belize, hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Mortgagee under a Deed of Mortgage made the 9th day of March, 2011, between AMOS VELASQUEZ of the one part, and the said SCOTIABANK (BELIZE) LTD. of the other part , and recorded in Deeds Book Volume 6 of 2011 at folios 591 - 652; and the said SCOTIABANK (BELIZE) LTD. will at the expiration of two months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the property described in the Schedule hereto.

All offers to purchase the said property must be made in writing and full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained from the said SCOTIABANK (BELIZE) LTD. THE SCHEDULE ABOVE REFERRED TO ALL THAT piece and parcel of land situate in San Roman Village, Stann Creek District, Belize, and being Lot No. 66 comprising 1137.57 Square Yards bounded and described as shown on Plan No. 356 of 2003 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon.

DATED this 10th day of April, 2013.

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

19 MAY MAY 19

THE BELIZE TIMESTIMES THE BELIZE

2013

TOPMODEL 13

ENTERTAINMENT

NEWS

Charlyn Flowers wins 2013

Top Celebrity Pageant Ivorie Mendez Miss Corozal 1st Runner-up Nikki Chan Miss Belizean Pride 2nd Runner-up Victoria Canul Miss Mahogany Tree 3rd Runner-up Marilyn Lopez Miss Dangriga 4th Runner-up Leilani Nah Miss Orange Walk 5th Runner-up Special Awards:

The ten candidates who participated in this year’s pageant brought a package of intellect, talent, beauty, grace, eloquence and national pride to this year’s pageant which positively echoed across the world. Besides this, they advocated the values of Discipline, Respect and Self- Growth to our Belizean Youth. They are “The Belizean Inspiration: Nothing More, Nothing Less.”

The Official Judges are Ebony Lyall, George Loskot, Anne Wade, Samson Jacobs, Jose Luis Zapata, Kamille Pennell, Becky Bernard and Kenny Jacobs.

Charlyn’s coronation will take place at a later date by outgoing Queen, Christine Syme. All candidates will receive a prize, donated by our generous sponsors.

LOCATION: Princess Hotel and Casino

Miss Photogenic – Leilani Nah Miss People’s Choice – Leilani Nah Miss Personality – Charlyn Flowers Most Beautiful Delegate – Ivorie Mendez

Kayla

• • • •

Height: 5’ 10” Career Plan: Entrepreneur Sign: Aries Favourite Foods: Mexican, Italian & Belizean

• • •

TOP MODEL Clothing and Accessories provided by CATWALK FASHIONS

Likes: Modeling, volleyball, basketball, softball, Travelling, Shopping, exercising and spending time with loved ones Lives in Belize City Fav. Quote: “Life is never a regret, think of it as lessons learnt.”

visit us at www.belizetimes.bz or Facebook/ Belize Times

Cor. North Front Steet & Queen Street Belize City

Follow us on facebook

14 SPORTS

19 MAY

THE BELIZE THE BELIZE TIMES TIMES

Byron Usher scored BDF’s 1st goal

Police United vs. FC Belize in finals Belize’s

Rigo Vellos

San Ignacio, May 12, 2013 FC Belize will host Police United in Game 1 of the 2013 Premier League of Belize football championship finals at the MCC Garden on Sunday, May 19.

FC Belize upset the No. 1 seed, Belmopan Bandits, 1-0 in Game 1 of the semifinals and shut them out 0-0 in Game 2 to eliminate the defending champs at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium in Belmopan last Saturday night.

The Bandits needed a 2-0 win to move on to the championship finals, but were without mid-fielders David Trapp and Gilbert Swazo who were sitting out red card suspensions.

Deon McCauley launched

2013

the Bandits’ first attacks on the right wing, but FC Belize goalie Glenford Chimilio was up to the challenge.

The Belize Defence Force were the No. 2 seed entering the playoffs, but they too were eliminated, 2-1, by the Police United in Game 2 at the Norman Broaster Stadium in San Ignacio on Sunday afternoon.

The Police United were sitting pretty with a 3-1 win over the BDF in game 1, so the BDF’s strikers Harrison “Kafu” Roches, Shane “Chucky” Flores Byron “Barro” Usher and Richard “Cheety Jimenez were all out for blood, but could not get past the Police defenders Glen Martinez, Kishane Pech, Orlando “Lichy” Jimenez and Trevor “Burger” Lennon.

Defending Champs Brilliant smash Wicked Eleven 140-81 in cricket

excels in UK Hercules Olympia Colchester, London, Saturday May 11, 2013 In his first attempt to put Belize’s bodybuilding talent on the world map, Mr. Belize Rigo Vellos did a spectacular job. Rigo competed in the Hercules Olympia held in Colchester, London on Saturday, May 11 2013.

He competed in the Tall Class against three other bodybuilders from North America and Europe. After the intense posing match, Rigo shared the stage with Kai Lyons and Ricky Cooper.

The judges were looking for sculpted shapes, body proportion and symmetry, along with muscular balance, condition and vascularity. Cooper was announced 3rd place winner, leaving newcomer Rigo going against veteran bodybuilder Lyons. Rigo was then announced 2nd place winner and Lyons advanced to the finale and won overall Mr. Hercules.

Rigo is the first Belizean to compete in the Mr. Hercules Olympia. His 2nd place win in the UK is reminiscent to his success in the Mr. Belize competition where his first year of competition saw him placing 3rd; in his second year he placed 2nd and by the 3rd year of competition, he won the title. A title Rigo will defend when he competes in the Mr. Belize 2013 to be held in Corozal Town in September.

Dorian Gabb batted 19 runs Flowers Bank, May 11, 2013 The four-time national champs, Brilliant of Crooked Tree walloped Wicked Eleven of Flowers Bank 140-81 to post their 10th win in Flowers Bank when the 2013 SMART Harrison Parks national cricket competition continued on Saturday, May 11.

Brilliant now leads Zone 2 with 20 points.

Meanwhile, the defending sub-champs Western Eagles were to have hosted the Alfred Dawson Cricket Club in Rancho Dolores, but they got the easy bye to their 7th win, to rank No.3 in Zone 1 with 14 points.

Other matches: Lords Bank Sunrise vs. St. Pauls Bank Strugglers – 189-57 Police vs. Easy Does It – 151 - 93 Bright Star vs. Isabella Uprising – 37 -36 Berlan vs. Surprise – Berlan win by forfeit

Sunrise Team

19 MAY MAY 19

2013

THE BELIZE TIMESTIMES THE BELIZE

SPORTS 15

Holy Redeemer girls & Martins’ boys are regional champs

Holy Redeemer girls Belize City, May 10, 2013 The Holy Redeemer RC School girls and the St. Martin De Porres RC school boys will represent the Belize District the primary school basketball nationals are

St. Martins boys held at the Bird’s Isle on Friday, May 10th.

Zaria Jenkins led Holy Redeemer with 10 points and Felicia Arzu added 5 points in their 15-14 win over the Belize Elementary girls. Allyanah Musa

Ontario Rebels extinguish Shooting Stars 38-2

Las Flores team

Roaring Creek’s Grace Kennedy

Roaring Creek, May 12, 2013 The Ontario Rebels enjoyed a big victory against the Las Flores Shooting Stars in Week 4 of Cayo women’s softball competition held in Roaring Creek on Sunday afternoon.

The Rebels hammered the Shooting Stars 38-2 by mercy rule. Only Las Flores’ pitcher Guadalupe Chicas and Sandra Lopez scored in the 1st inning, while the entire Ontario diamond scored in the bottom of the 1st.

Kenreen Gillett hit a homer as she, Sharine Reyes, Lizette Gongora, Indira Ireland, Jean Gabourel and Rhona

Ireland each crossed the plate 4 times and Gayle Arthurs also homered as she, Isha Gardiner and Belvia Gillett Ireland each crossed the plate 3 times to lead 32-2 at the end of the 1st inning.

Pitcher Kenreen Gillett struck out 5 batters, allowing no more runs, while Gongora, Indira and Rhona Ireland, Gillett, Arthurs and Gabourel came home in the 2nd inning.

In Game 2, the Esperanza Wolverines hammered Roaring Creek Grace Kennedy 8-1. The competition continues at the UB field in Belmopan City on Sunday, May 19.

led the Elementary School girls with 6 points while Donna Che and Chelsea Williams scored 4 points each.

Glen Arzu scored 16 points as he led the St. Martin’s boys to a 35-19 win over the Ephesus 7th Day Adventist

School boys. Melroy Pelayo added 8 points. Marquis Cornquie had 5 points and Justin Cacho 4pts. Ephesus’ Delbert Sabal scored 8 points, while Leon Lodge added 5 points, and Kenny Daly added 3 points.

Oceana No Limits & CYDP

win back to back in interoffice basketball

Belize City, May 11, 2013 Oceana No Limits enjoyed their 3rd win 106-103 over the Department of Youth Services Lennox Bowman scored 17pts on Saturday night. Greg “Chippy” Rudon led with 36 points while Jacob “Snake” Leslie added 24 points, Brandon Rogers had 15 points and Russel Staine added 14pts. Vinnie Garbutt tossed in 12 points, Robert Ferguson was good for 5pts and Rhetton Belisle tossed in a bucket.

Oceana led from the getgo, even as Brian “Brybo” White led Youth Services with 24 points, 11 rebounds. Kenroy Usher added 22 points, Junior Arnold had 20 points and Lennox bowman added 17pts. Chris McGann tossed in 6pts and Arthur Neal had 4 points 11 rebounds.

Services – 75-74 CYDP’s 3rd win came against the Top scorers: Lennox Bowman Allied Insurance Abyssinians on Sat- 21pts, Brian White 15pts; Bernard Felix urday evening. Abyssinians led 24-21 15pts, Matthew Young 13pts in the 1st quarter and 38-35 at the half Police vs. Belize Telemedia – 83-59 as Darwin Leslie scored 19 points, Top scorers: Orlando Bowen 18pts, Rupert Brown added 19 points, and Sheldon Williams 14pts; Lupito Acosta Roscoe Rhys scored 17 points.

18pts, Devon Lozano, 12pts CYDP’s Bernard Felix rebounded Tuff e’Nuff vs. Sir Belikin – 103-83 with 26 points and 8 rebounds; Leroy Top scorers: Winston “Air Jun” Louriano added 17 points and 5 re- Pratt 25pts; Jamal Kelly 14pts bounds and Ian Lennon and Matthew Sir Belikin vs. Belize Telemedia – Young each added 12 points. Young 84-80 grabbed 18 rebounds to tie the score Top scorers: Travis Lennon 24pts, 58-58 in the 3rd quarter.

Stephen “Muerte” Williams 19pts, Abyssinians’ Paul Swasey scored Leon “Bigs” Williams 13pts, Jarrel Ve9 points, Michael Staine added 8 lasquez, 12pts points; but CYDP’s Jermian Tillett Oceana No Limits vs. Allied Insurscored 11 points and Alfred Bainton ance Abyssinians – 101-92 added 5 points in their 86-81 win.

Top scorers: Jacob “Snake” LesOther matches: lie 28pts, Vinnie Garbutt 19pts, Darwin CYDP vs. Department of Youth “Puppy” Leslie 29pts

16

19 MAY

THE BELIZE TIMES

2013

UK scholarships open doors for Belizeans Rudolph (17) and Daniel’s (18) decision to accept scholarships to study in the UK was primarily influenced by the financial difficulties they faced. They had been going to high school every day knowing that after its completion, despite all their efforts, it was almost impossible for them to continue their education in their home country. The scholarships, offered by Pestalozzi International Village Trust, enabled them to pursue their dreams. With the BELIZE TIMES they shared their motivation to go abroad, their experience in the UK and hopes for the future.

Eastbourne, UK, May 8th 2013 Founded over 50 years ago, Pestalozzi is an international educational charity offering two year scholarships to academically bright, but economically disadvantaged 16-19 year old students from around the world, giving them the chance to realise their potential. In cooperation with Sussex Coast College Hastings (East Sussex, UK) Pestalozzi gives students the opportunity to take their International Baccalaureate.

The charity currently hosts 50 students from seven different countries: Belize, India, Nepal, the Tibetan communities in exile, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe. The organization promotes holistic education, developing the person as a whole following the principles of ‘Head, Heart and Hands’.

Students live together and exchange international experiences in cultural evenings and activities.

“Staying with students

from different parts of the world opens your views to a global level where you need to communicate and live together despite cultural differences. Life at Pestalozzi is hectic as well as fun, and there is not a week that passes where nothing exciting occurs”, says Rudolph, who comes from Elridge, a village about five miles from Punta Gorda.

Although both Rudolph and Daniel are engaged with extracurricular activities, the International Baccalaureate was their primary motivation to leave Belize and hurl themselves into a UK adventure.

Daniel explains: “The offer of the Pestalozzi scholarship, motivation from my family, and my wish to continue my education allowed me to come to the UK. The IB diploma is of great value to me, as I will be then free to study anywhere abroad.

Furthermore, the experience of life away from home helps to develop personal awareness.” Rudolph

adds: “My academic progression depended mainly on scholarships, my peers and teachers and family always supports me in every way the can, so the least I can do is make them feel proud, and as I love taking on challenges and want to continue studying.”

Adapting to life in the UK was challenging but fun. Rudolph notes: “Punctuality is more regarded in UK. If you are not on time for the bus, it goes without you. And mainly the temperature stands out, this is the first time I am experiencing the snow.” Thousands of miles away from home, the boys now realise how much they miss Belizean delicacies, hot sunshine, their family and friends. Both Daniel and Rudolph are beginning to anticipate Continued on page 20

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”.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

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.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

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.

THE BELIZE TIMES

14.

13.

12.

11.

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.

2.

10.

El PUP reconoce y respeta el papel y las responsabilidades de los Alcaldes y de los Presidentes de aldea.

1.

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.

2013

1.

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.

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

TRUE DEVELOPMENT 19 MAY

17

18

THE BELIZE TIMES

19 MAY

2013

19 MAY

19

THE BELIZE TIMES

2013

IMPORTANT COURT NEWS DPP CALLED TO BAR: JUDGE NEXT???

Belize City, Belize May 17, 2013 THE BELIZE TIMES has been reliably informed that there is interesting news coming out Belize’s judiciary.

We are told that the DPP, Cheryl-lyn Vidal, who has been widely criticized for the dismal 3% conviction rate at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions is being called to Bar. This process is undertaken when a person wants to practice law privately in Belizean Courts.

However, we are advised that this process may be telling of something else. Persons within Belize’s justice system are estimating that Vidal’s move is an indicator of a possible future appointment as a Supreme Court Judge.

We over here at the BELIZE TIMES can only shake our heads.

Further investigations reveal that coming out of the departure of Judge Oswell Legal, the UDP are looking to stuff the Judiciary as they please. We are told the word in the hallways of the Court house is that the UDP are considering to put another one on the Belizean public.

We are informed that the UDP are looking at two other non-nationals, particularly, the District Magistrate from Punta Gorda, Shawna Griffith (Jamaican), the current Chief Magistrate Ann Marie Smith (from Eastern Caribbean) and possibly the Solicitor General, Cheryl Krusen (Jamaican).

We are also informed that another person whose name is floating around with the UDP is Velda Flowers. Flowers is the current Registrar of the Supreme Court.

These are troubling revelations because the Bar Association has already been told that they will not have a say in whoever the UDP want to install as a Judge.

In the case of Mrs. Velda Flowers we are told that the Bar Association had fielded complaints about her conduct of the administrative business of the Court. This we are told is because apart from the administrative duties, the Registrar is like a judge who hears minor applications and divorce cases.

There were also many complaints from the Registry staff who flooded the executive of the Bar with informal complaints with Flowers.

Caleb Orozco’s security includes Police & GSU?

UNIBAM’s Caleb Orozco Belize City, May 14, 2013 A group of specially-assigned security personnel trails behind UNIBAM President Caleb Orozco with his every movement.

Orozco and his team of attorneys had been going to the Supreme Court for five days last week, asking the Court to remove Section 53 of the criminal laws, which he claims denies rights to the LBGT individuals.

Orozco said a security detail was assigned to him after increased threats on his safety. There was one reported attack on his vehicle and his home on Wednesday night. His security, he said, observed suspicious activity, but

no one was arrested.

Security personnel were also seen escorting Orozco from the courtroom to his vehicle.

The BELIZE TIMES has learnt that the security involves ex-BDF, ex-Police and Gang Suppression Unit officers. We also understand that Orozco’s security was contracted to a senior Police official.

Members of the security team were assigned weapons and ammunition. They are paid $250 per day. This security detail is also doubled up by a team of GSU officers who trail Orozco also.

The BELIZE TIMES believes that Orozco’s safety, as that of every other Belizean, is paramount, but we demand to know how a senior Police official is involved in providing private security services, and how it is that they have access to enough ammo and weapons to arm a team. Why is the GSU, which is involved in high level gang-fighting, as mandate by the Uncle Sam, now providing protection to Orozco?

If the Government has sanctioned this, does it mean tax payers are paying?

The 3% DPP, Cheryl-Lyn Vidal

The importance of this story is ripe in the fact that Belizeans need to know who is judging us and that there should be no political pressure by the Government on these persons who should be independent.

Why, we ask, are the UDP going all way around the world when we have qualified public servants who are proven as qualified to sit as judges such as Sharon Fraser?

It is clear that the UDP and Barrow did not read Judge Legall’s decision. The public need to know what is happening and why.

20

19 MAY

THE BELIZE TIMES

2013

The Work in Belize Rural Central Continues

Mangrove reserve

under threat

Belize City, May 13, 2013 Strange activity is taking place within an environmentally sensitive area along Belize City’s northside shoreline. Construction workers have set up camp and are digging into the ground, preparing to erect an unknown structure, next to Dolphin Park on Seashore Drive in the Caribbean Shores area.

Several weeks ago, 7 News had inquired into the goings on at the site and the explanation given back then was that the area would be used as “storage” for construction equipment. The area is designated as a mangrove reserve, but no reason was given as to how it came to be that the public space was occupied by unknown private interests.

The storage area now appears to be a fully-operational work site as the men enclosed the area with

chain link fence and have begun physical work.

A large container sits at the site. Holes can be seen in the ground. Steel pipes and concrete beams lay nearby.

What’s going on at this location? Some years ago, residents fought for its preservation when a local businessman attempted to construct a boat marina and three-storey complex. The residents said the shoreline is a natural habitat, with its mangrove patches along the coast. The area designated for a community park, was named Dolphin Park, after constant citing of the beautiful Dolphins.

Can the Belize City Mayor explain what is taking place? Will the Department of Environment investigate? Are the residents, which includes the Prime Minister, concerned?

Belize District, May 14, 2013 Chairman of the PUP Belize Rural Central Committee Jose “Pepe” Garcia, husband of Area Representative Hon. Dolores Balderamos Garcia, has been leading the charge on behalf of Dolores and the Committee in giving much needed attention to various sporting facilities in this constituency of over 6000 voters and nine villages.

In just over one year he has spearheaded the building the new basketball court for Mahogany Heights, and worked at the refurbishment and upgrading of basketball courts throughout the division.

Recently the uprights and backboards have been replaced at the La Democracia basketball court. Also, rims have been replaced at the basketball court in Lord’s Bank, with replacement of the backboards at the BDF hous-

ing area basketball court on Xunantunich Street soon to be done. Also on the list for attention shortly is the basketball court at Old Hattieville.

Within the past week, Pepe and his team have provided work for various residents of Gales Point Manatee, with refurbishment and drainage for the basketball court. The steel uprights were re-welded and new backboards and rims installed, and also drainage around the court completed, with help from a number of community members. With Ms. Shelly and Ms. Shanice doing the cooking for the day, some thirty residents, including children, turned out to assist in upgrading this key sport facility for their community!

At the end of the day everyone expressed satisfaction at the refurbishment, and they pledged their support for future projects to provide attention for Gales Point Manatee.

UK scholarships open doors for Belizeans Continued from page 16 their summer holidays, when they will return to Belize to undertake volunteer placements and see their relatives and loved ones again.

However, Daniel and Rudolph do not yet know when they will return to live permanently in Belize. “I am expected and hope to return at the end of the course, unless I secure a university to continue studying. I am committed to the development of my community and country,” says Daniel. Last year, 12 of 19 Pestalozzi graduates were accepted at renowned universities in the USA, Germany and the UK. While students are given a great opportunity to pursue their career dreams internationally, most of them are returning to their home communities to make an impact in their own countries. Rudolph describes his future plans and stresses that he will go back to Belize after his studies. “I see myself as a youth leader and a motivator for young minds and working closely with youths

who may need help as much as I needed. Furthermore, I want to be a guide for my little brother and sister, I want them to be like me or even better.” On the other hand, Daniel knows for sure he wants to open his own business in the electric industry after completing a major.

The diversity of international life at Pestalozzi and the different experiences the boys are having mean that they both unreservedly recommend the international scholarship at Pestalozzi. Daniel says: “Certainly it’s a great experience to see the real world.” Rudolph adds: “Students may wish to be warned, that motivation and determination is what is needed to be able to make the best of this experience. It is like a quest, where you see yourself changing into someone better, and at the same, watch others do the same, knowing it was because of you.”

Pepe & the BRC work crew joined hands to refurbish the Gales Point basketball court\

19 MAY

2013

THE BELIZE TIMES

Reid Bigots

By G. Michael Reid A bigot is a blinkered, narrow-minded person, usually also very intolerant and unable to see anyone else’s point of view. People can be bigoted about things that have nothing to do with race, for example, religion or sexual orientation. A prime example would be Archie Bunker from the old television sitcom “All in the Family.” ~Wikipedia Belize is a melting pot of many different races, cultures and lifestyles. We currently exist in a state of what might be considered relative harmony. It was not always that way. I have always felt that the greatest accomplishments of our late leader George Price, was his ability to hold this mangled mess together and steer us from colonialism to our state of “jerry-built” Independence.

It could not have been very easy.

As it is, we are very much a polarized nation, deeply divided along religious, philosophical and in particular political lines. We are governed by a Constitution which affirms “that the Nation of Belize shall be founded upon principles which acknowledge the supremacy of GOD…” Considering our attitudes toward others and the types of crimes and gross indiscretions of late, one would be hard-pressed to convince anyone of any such thing.

Belize started out as a settlement of ragtag pirates

the Noh Mul monument; with distain and disrespect. While their descendants are still here, they seem to have as much rights as their “native” relatives to the north. Banished to reservations and now being pushed even further to make way for rosewood harvesting and oil drilling expeditions.

Then came the Garinagu!

How we hated them and would not let them within 36 miles of our nest of ungregariousness. We called them Kerobs (or Cherubs if you read the Bible) and looked down on their customs and eating habit. They were “bregging” and always smelled like fish! It took many years but we eventually realized their worth and allowed them to educate our children, play us music and stand on the wall of our security. All of us are indeed now one and haven’t we come

21

our Central American neighbors began arriving by the boatloads and truckloads.

Spanish people that snuck in while we weren’t even looking. These “yellow-belly Panyas” ate corn, slept in hammocks and were boisterous when drunk. We did not care much for them, looked down our noses and felt ourselves and a few slaves. They subsuperior. Then we realized that sequently turned to the harthey also did a lot of farming vesting of the rich mahogany and worked hard at the jobs and logwood trees that they that we thought ourselves found growing in the area. too good to perform. We did They pushed inland as far as not like it but we eventually the Rio Hondo and established had no choice but to accept parameters for what would them. We started leaving and become this “tranquil haven” they kept coming until now, of “wealth untold”. Of course, we are reduced to “minority” from early in our existence, and they elevated to status of our neighbor to the west has “majority”. been violating the tenth comNow, here’s the real point! mandment and “coveting” all Bigotry is etched deeply into that we hold to be ours. our nature. We almost need it because we have to feel as if we are better Then came the Mennonites. They were differthan somebody else.

At least on the surent; acted differently, dressed differently and face, we have done “did not bade for forty days and forty nights”. well in accepting or at We didn’t like them much either, howevleast tolerating other er, we eventually also realized how valuraces and cultures. We have come a long way, able they were to our economy and in doubt, and now we supplying much of the food that we need- no are living together and ed to eat. it is a beautiful thing to behold. It was a tough There is a long standing a long way baby? and rocky road to this point argument as to whether slavThen came the Mennonites. but we did it and it has done ery in Belize was any differThey were different; acted dif- us well. We have much spice ent than it was in the United ferently, dressed differently and in our coalition.

States. I am inclined to the po“did not bade for forty days and Now here come some idsition that slavery was slavery forty nights”. We didn’t like them iots who are tugging at the in any form or fashion. What much either, however, we even- last vestige of our snobbery. was different was the aftertually also realized how valuable We have stopped hating othmath of the atrocity; whereas they were to our economy and er ethnic groups and now we miscegenation was illegal and in supplying much of the food have no one else to hate and prohibited in the states, it was that we needed to eat. They are feel better than, than those widely practiced and acceptalso now fully integrated into who call themselves “lesbian, ed here in Belize. As a result, our society. Hell, there is even gay, bisexual, and transgenby the time the masters had one way up as a high ranking der” (LBGT). No way in hell! If depleted the forest and were minister of government. we have to pull out every leaf ready to return to their true Then came the Chinese, of the Bible and beat them wives in the mother country, “trying to make a dollar out of with it until they surrender, we were left a colony of mixed fifty cents”. At first there was a we will not surrender our right up and confused mulattos. trickle and then they began to to hate. This is our last bastion Some were darker and some pour. They paid good money for of superiority and we refuse were lighter and that subsetheir passports and they wres- to let go. If need be, we shall quently laid the foundation of tled away the fry chicken and assail the gates of the courtour most prominent paradigm. then the boledo business. In house and sing sankeys and While in the U.S. they were the beginning, as is usual, we read scripture ‘til thy kingdom fighting for civil rights, we were didn’t like them. We robbed come. They will not win! How fighting to see who was better them and even killed a cou- dare anyone try to deny us than whom. ple here and there. Then we our right to be bigots? We are Before us of even, were the ate their chicken and became what we are!

Mayans, who left a rich legacy hooked. They are now thorThe opinions expressed in and monuments of their storied oughly assimilated into society this article are those of the aupast. We treated them in pretty and a couple is also up in the thors and do not necessarily much the same way that Vega echelons of politics. reflect the views of the puband Grijalva are now treating Then the immigrants from lisher.

22

THE BELIZE TIMES

19 MAY

2013

Legalized Corruption

By Gilroy Usher, Sr. For some time members of the public have been expressing outrage that the government has rented two premises in Belize City in which two Ministers Santiago Castillo and Anthony “Boots” Martinez have major interest.

One of the properties is a large building for Martinez cor. Euphrates and Kut Avenue that is being used as a police precinct reportedly at a whopping cost of $7000 per month. The other property belongs to Santiago Castillo Co. in which Minister Castillo is a director. That property is being rented to the Vital Statistics Unit, and is located cor.

New Road and Hydes Lane. The rental cost is reportedly a large figure per month.

The Prime Minister held his first press conference for the year on Monday. When asked about the conflict of interest with the government renting premises from ministers, the Prime Minister stated that he approved of the decision to rent the premises because the premises are being rented at market

rate. Barrow shied away from disclosing the monthly rent the government is paying for each of the premises.

It is common knowledge that corruption is rampant when ministers direct the funds of government towards projects or undertakings in which they have a direct interest. Corruption in such cases often comes in the form of bloated contracts, bloated rent, bloated request for supplies, and weekly wage for many ghost employees (employees who only exist on paper).

The Prime Minister said that the premises are rented at market rate, but anybody can say that. If the government has nothing to hide, why doesn’t it disclose the actual monthly rent, and why did it not invite offers from the public for rental space for those two particular purposes. Talk that only those two buildings are suitable for the intended purpose is total nonsense. There are many suitable concrete buildings for a police precinct in the Queen Square Division, and there are many buildings in the heart of Belize City that are more

suitable the Vital Statistics Unit. The truth is that those two particular premises were rented to butter the paws of the ministers connected with them, while there is a lack of funds for the most basic services in communities across the country. That is what stinks most about this abuse of taxpayers’ money.

This conflict of interest, the renting of premises from ministers or their families, is the continuation of the UDP practice in which the ministers and their cronies put their self-interest before the interest and welfare of the Belizean people.

This was started by the UDP from its first term when Prime Minister Dean Barrow by-passed the solicitor general and other legal brains in the government service and paid millions of dollars in legal fees to his brother and ex-wife for representing the government in various court matters. Most recently German Vega, who works very closely with his bother Deputy Prime Minister Gaspar Vega, was

given the exclusive contract to export the same rosewood that was confiscated from loggers including himself as a result of illegal cutting.

Government recently established the National Bank of Belize to among other things fund government projects. In preparing for the feeding frenzy with taxpayers money, a number of ministers have setup companies that will be bidding for those contracts. The UDP hopes that by the time those contracts are issued the minds of the Belizean people would have been condition to accept the UDP propaganda that nothing is wrong if a company in which a minister has a direct interest gets a contract from the government once the contract is granted at the market rate.

Everything happening is part and parcel of this corrupt UDP government’s plan to enable the ministers, their cronies, and their families to milk the Belizeans taxpayers mercilessly. It is legalized corruption.

19 MAY

2013

How Do Children Cope When Mommy and Daddy Are Incarcerated?

By Dr. Angela Banner Joseph “I am convinced that imprisonment is a way of pretending to solve the problem of crime. It does nothing for the victims of crime, but perpetuates the idea of retribution, thus maintaining the endless cycle of violence in our culture. It is a cruel and useless substitute for the elimination of those conditions—poverty, unemployment, homelessness, desperation, racism, greed— which are at the root of most punished crime. The crimes of the rich and powerful go mostly unpunished. It must surely be a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit that even a small number of those men and women in the hell of the prison system survive it and hold on to their humanity.” - Howard Zinn, You Can’t Be Neutral on a Moving Train: A Personal History of Our Times Having a parent in prison can be stressful on children and caregivers. Oftentimes, children of inmates suffer from embarrassment, depression, anger, or selfhate because of the backlash they may endure from friends and family members due to one or both parents’ incarceration.

Recently, I viewed Mothers of Bedford, a documentary about the life of women who were incarcerated at New York’s only maximum security prison, Bedford Hills Correctional Facility. The movie depicted the lives of five women and examined the relationship between their children and the children’s caregivers. In most cases, the caregiver was a grandparent. The filmmaker Jenifer McShane videoed the women as they spent time in an innovative children’s center at the prison that created space for the women to spend positive time with their children while behind bars. I learned that children served time along with their parents and were unfairly sentenced by society because of their parents’ poor decisions to commit a crime. How many parents leave their babies annually

23

THE BELIZE TIMES

to live in a prison cell?

Children should be loved and nurtured. They should be able to enjoy their youth without having to worry about the exploits of their parents. I talked to young people about why they had committed crimes: inmates at Riker’s Island, a jail in New York City, as well as children living in group homes.

Many reflected on seeing either one or both parents serving time.

Some noted that they were repeating a cycle they were familiar with and wanted to be like their parents. Others shared that they had wished that their parents had been available during their formative years. Most said they prayed for a stable household after a parent had committed a crime.

Today, we see higher rates of incarceration for young adults who have young children. The young people are serving longer sentences, which means children are serving longer sentences. How does parental imprisonment affect the children left behind due to incarceration? Children may develop behavioral problems and may need counseling to deal with the situation; the caregiver may endure economic hardship, the children may repeat the cycle of committing a crime, or the children may be shamed in the community.

What are the long-term psychological ramifications when a child is sentenced to prison, along with the parent? What happens to the child when no family member steps forward and the child becomes a ward of the state? What happens when an incarcerated parent has no one to turn to as a trusted caregiver?

How are such children nurtured?

What type of counseling should children receive? How do children forgive their parent?

Mumia Abu-Jamal, a prisoner, asserted, “Prison is a second-by-second assault on the soul, a day-to-day degradation of the self, an oppressive steel and brick umbrella that transforms seconds into hours and hours into days.” Being in jail should not be glorified or serve as a rite of passage.

Please think about your children before you commit a crime. If you are imprisoned, your children will serve long sentences. Examine the impact your incarceration will have on your children and other family members who are left behind. Let’s try to prevent future intergenerational crime and incarceration and become model parents for our children.

Dr. Angela Banner Joseph holds a doctorate degree in Educational Leadership and Change from the Fielding Graduate University

FOR SALE

BY ORDER OF THE SUPREME COURT OF BELIZE

BY ORDER of the Supreme Court of Belize dated 16th April, 2013 in the matter between DANIEL FABRO and JUDE NAGENDRAN, YOUNGS LAW FIRM hereby gives notice of its intention to sell the properties described in the Schedule below.

All offers to purchase the said properties must be submitted in writing to YOUNGS LAW FIRM, No. 28 Regent Street, Belize City, Belize from whom full particulars and conditions of the sale may be obtained. The properties will be sold by private treaty. The successful bidder will be required to deposit 10% immediately after notification that the bid is conditionally accepted. Deadline for bids is May 31, 2013. Contact person - Mrs. Jacqueline Locke.

All rights are reserved including to extend the deadline date, refuse any bid or withdraw the properties from sale.

THE SCHEDULE ABOVE REFERRED TO (a) All that piece or parcel of land containing 38.803 acres situate Northwest of Middlesex Village and North of the Hummingbird Highway near Mile 25, Stann Creek District and bounded and described as shown by Plan No. 471 of 2008

(b) All that piece or parcel of land containing 3.013 acres situate at Southern Long Caye approximately 15 miles Northeast of Dangriga Town, Stann Creek District and bounded and described as shown on Plan No. 470 of 2008

DATED this 3rd day of May, 2013.

YOUNGS LAW FIRM 28 REGENT STREET BELIZE CITY BELIZE

24

19 MAY

THE BELIZE TIMES

2013

Recipes of the week CarrotMango Smoothie

Pineapple and Ginger Smoothie

Treat Mom to an early pre-breakfast treat with either of these healthy breakfast smoothies on Mother’s Day. Ingredients 1 mango (medium to large in size), chopped 1 cup fresh carrot juice Dash freshly grated nutmeg 1/2 cup ice cubes

Directions Puree ingredients in a blender until smooth.

MARRIAGES Kenty Albert Bey, 24, to Eri Anai Montalvo, 23, both of Xaibe, Corozal District Jorge Cawich, 23, to Iren Adiarri Patt, 19, both of San Narciso, Corozal District Dwayne Lloyd Philip Flowers, 27, to Cindy Leigh Herrmann, 33, both of Placencia, Stann Creek District Mark Anthony Tucker, 30, of Placencia, Stann Creek District, to Rochelle Bisko, 29, of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada Maarten Colin Proost, 51, to Arieke Prosee, 41, both of Groningen, The Netherlands Domingo Bulum, 49, to Rosa Cucul, 36, both of Red Bank, Stann Creek District Hitesh Shyamkumar Purushvani, 23, to Fenicia Joana Barrera, 22, both of Belize City Toribio Coc, 22, to Martha Alicia Pop, 23, both of Belmopan Santos Bo, 74, to Juana Chub, 56, both of San Lucas, Toledo District Luterio Quib, 27, to Magdalena Tiul, 26, both of San Benito Poite, Toledo District Andres Anthony Sanchez, 24, to Esther Clarivel Pop, 18, both of San Pedro Columbia, Toledo District Ruperto Cho, 24, to Anceta Coc, 28, both of San Antonio, Toledo District Santiago Che, 35, to Sonia Batz, 22, both of Otoxha, Tole-

do District Justo Pastor Reyes Cruz, 43, to Maria Sandra del Cid Rodriguez, 27, both of Dangriga Town, Stann Creek District Fred William Grueneberg, 52, to Victoria Lee Waldrop, 54, both of Sittee River, Stann Creek District Brian William Buyan, 52, to Audra Mitchelle Stephens, 37, both of Silk Grass, Stann Creek District Samuel Cal, 28, to Catarina Chub, 28, both of San Pedro Columbia, Toledo District Curtis Gian Godoy, 32, to Amarita Merica Johnson, 26, both of Independence, Stann Creek District Len Ryan Linarez, 25, to Marlena Michell Ramclam, 20, both of Independence, Stann Creek District Errol Lloyd Jones, 52, to Juana Roselia Lozano, 31, both of Independence, Stann Creek District Cecil Cal, 26, to Faustina Choc, 21, both of Independence, Stann Creek District Candelario Vasquez, 46, to Dominga Fuentes, 50, both of Burrell Boom, Belize District Manuel Elias Matus, 26, to Marivel Ildefonso Tupul, 24, both of San Ignacio Town, Cayo District Kenty Adelso Vasquez Cohuoj, 22, to Monica Idania Cunil Ical, 19, both of San Ignacio Town,

Ingredients 1 cup fresh pineapple, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced 1/2 cup low-fat plain yogurt 1 cup pineapple juice 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 cup ice Directions Blend pineapple, ginger, yogurt, pineapple juice, cinnamon and ice.

BIRTHS Born to Aldo Josue Salazar and Venetia Inderah Salazar nee Eck, a girl, Bianca Lucia Born to Elfryn Jose Reyes and Dee-Ancor Celina Reyes nee Grinage, a girl, Joceli Rosinell Irce Born to Allyn Marion Ramirez and Sigma Filia Ramirez nee Martinez, a girl, Saysha Simone Born to Terence Robert Lara and Olivia Iris Lara nee Jones, a boy, Raphael Terence Josef

Cayo District Francis Eddy Contreras, 40, to Leidi Marleni Guzman, 25, both of Santa Elena Town, Cayo District Teofilo Marroquin, 25, to Daisy Elizabeth Quinteros, 22, both of Corozal Town, Corozal District Adrian Wellington Ramos, 31, to Shareena Egzine Hernandez, 20, both of Belize City Jaleel Mauricio Barrera, 20, of San Narciso, Corozal District, to Lizbeth Ivette Dominguez, 20, of Cristo Rey, Corozal District

ROAD Saving Tips When to replace tires

Many of us have been trained to believe that the best way to check for good and bad tires is with the coin trick. We place the coin within the tire threading and once it goes deeper than quarter size of the coin, it’s still ok. But there are more to tires than threading. There are also air and pressure, defective rubber and damages due to wear and tear.

So what’s the best way to check your tires?

Air Pressure Check the air pressure of your tires at least once a month.

This could not only extend the life of your tires, but also save your own! Low pressure reduces fuel consumption efficiency, and if it runs too low, the tire could overheat and blow.

Alignment Make sure your car is properly aligned to save wear and tear on your tires. A crooked wheel alignment causes the tires to wear more quickly and could impact the handling of your car.

It will also reduce the life of the tires, and fixing the alignment could improve fuel efficiency by 9 percent. By the normal standard, alignment should occur once a year or every 10,000 miles.

Switching tires Tires should be rotated at least every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.

Because front tires wear out a lot more than the rear ones, switching them go a long way towards extending the life of the tires.

Check for cracks and bulges Tires degrade over time. Oils and chemicals in the rubber compound can evaporate or break down because of UV exposure. The rubber can lose flexibility and begin to crack at the surface, and the structure becomes more and more brittle, leading to sidewall damage and eventual failure.

Look for cracking in the rubber, the wear of the tire, and bulges and bubbles. You might even see tread start to separate.

This is called dry rot.

It’s good practice to replace tires as soon as you see signs any of these damages, to prevent blowouts and the subsequent loss of vehicle control. Even if there are no signs of rot, the standard is to swap out tires before they hit 10 years old, and some tire companies recommend replacement as early as six years after manufacture.

19 MAY

25

THE BELIZE TIMES

2013

International Museum Day

MATCH THE MUSEUMS Can you match the picture of the museum to its’ name?

GUGGENHEIM TOKYO MUSEUM

LOUVRE

Have you ever been to a museum?

Well, in celebration of International Museum Day, (May 18th) what about visiting the Museum of Belize?

Museums of the World Can you find and circle the 5 museums listed below?

GUGGENHEIM LOUVRE MOMA

TATE MODERN UFFIZI GALLERY

COLOURING FUN!

Think you could be a famous artist? Get out your crayons and have some fun colouring Vincent Van Gogh’s Starry Night.

26

19 MAY

THE BELIZE TIMES

PUBLIC service

announcements

2013

BRAIN

TEASER

SUDOKU PUZZLE #17/2013

Ladyville health buff seeks support Belize City, May 6, 2013 Many health diseases have been linked to obesity, lack of exercise and bad nutrition. One local Belizean fitness fan who is helping residents in her community stay fit and healthy is seeking support to keep her fitness training programme.

Phonice Auil has been running a fitness boot camp programme at the Ladyville Community Center for a year. Her objective is to help residents lose weight and keep fit and healthy. Last week she stopped by the BELIZE TIMES to share her ideas of raising funding for her programme. Auil’s gym space in the center’s upper floor needs new equipment and to raise money for it she held a Catamaran cruise on Friday April 3, 2013.

Auil says the funds will be used to buy much needed equipment such as treadmills, boxing gloves, weights, mats and possi-

See answers NEXT WEEK bly workout machines. She said her current crop of fitness students is about ten women who have been progressing steadily. Anyone interested in assisting or attending the fitness program can contact Auil at 667-8867.

Prostate Cancer expert visits Belize Dr. Jorge Gonzales, the Chief Urologist at the Institute of Oncology and Radiology in Havana Cuba is visiting Belize until May 18.

During his visit Dr. Gonzalez will make himself available to participate in special public education sessions /interactions/ and to conduct clinics and consultations on Prostate Cancer during a Prostate Cancer Awareness Week

Answers for last week’s puzzle SUDOKU PUZZLE SOLUTION #16/2013

from May 12 to May 18 coordinated

by Belize Cancer Society.

This visit and accompanying program aims at focusing public attention on cancer in support of Belize Cancer Society. It is hoped that it will provide feedback for enhanced future cooperation to improve outreach early detection and treatment in this vital field and to maximize the deployment of Goodwill and Solidarity between our peoples.

Answers for last week’s puzzle

See answers NEXT WEEK

19 MAY

27

THE BELIZE TIMES

2013

BELIZE TIMES WEEKLY

SCIENCE & TECH R

E

V

I

E

W

Selected By Chris Williams

Passenger plane flies 800 kilometres without a pilot 13 May 2013 by Paul Marks

Say hello to the droneliner. A business plane has flown an 800-kilometre round trip in civilian airspace without the pilot onboard operating its controls.

Instead, the plane flew itself like an outsized drone with continual monitoring of its autonomous manoeuvres performed by a pilot based on the ground.

The flight from Warton in Lancashire, to Inverness in Scotland by a British Aerospace Jetstream is being hailed as a milestone by members of ASTRAEA, a £62 million UK research consortium aiming to develop the technology that will allow civilian aircraft to share their airspace with drones – some of which could be as big as airliners.

The flight happened back in April but the details have only just been revealed. It took off with a regular pilot and test engineers on board.

But once the aircraft was straight and level, the pilot handed control to the ground pilot and sat back for the ride, only taking over again for the landing.

The aircraft – a 19-seat propeller-powered business plane – was not merely on autopilot. It tested the detect-and-avoid technology, which drones in civil airspace will need to have to ensure they keep their distance from other air traffic and automatically undertake collision-avoidance manoeuvres.

The algorithm that runs this technology has been thrashed out with air-safety experts at the UK Civil Aviation Authority who have ensured it sticks to the “rules of the air” understood by pilots worldwide.

Replacing eyeballs To test the system, fake objects to avoid were introduced to the flight computer, says Lambert Dopping-Hepenstal at BAE Systems, programme director for ASTRAEA. “Because we were in shared airspace, all the sense-and-avoid

World’s fish are migrating to escape global warming 15 May 2013 by Debora MacKenzie Hot, hot, hot. Fish the world over are migrating to escape global warming.

For several years now, some fishers have been noticing changes in their nets. In places, new species are being caught.

Sea bass and red mullet have moved north into British waters.

Pacific salmon have swum to the Beaufort Sea, where – according to Dan Pauly of the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada – the Inuit have no name for them.

Elsewhere, staple catches are vanishing fast.

manoeuvres we tested used synthetic targets. Any changes to the flight route were communicated to the ground-based pilot by air traffic control, with the pilot then instructing the aircraft to amend its course accordingly,” he says.

Jim Scanlan, one of the designers of the world’s first 3D-printed unmanned aerial vehicle at the University of Southampton, UK, is impressed. “I think it’s great. It’s good to see such progress in the UK – especially with the US hoping to open up its airspace to UAVs in 2015.”

The main thing ASTRAEA needs to get right is that sensing and avoiding capability, says Scanlan. “That’s the showstopper at the moment. Without a pilot they need a sensing system to replace the Mark 1 eyeball – one that can tell a hot-air balloon from a cloud.”

But whether this is a global effect and what is behind the change have been unclear. Are fish being ousted from their original habitats as climate change warms the waters? Are disappearances due to overfishing?

Now, Pauly and colleagues have found that the mix of fish in all the world’s major fisheries has changed since 1970, as fish that prefer warmer waters move in. The average temperature preference of fisheries has risen by nearly 1 ºC in temperate regions. The effect correlated closely with local increases in sea surface temperatures, but not with fishing pressure or other oceanic features such as currents.

Ominously, the temperature preference of tropical fisheries also rose initially, until the 1980s, then levelled off. Cooler-water species moved out, but there are no heat-loving species to replace them, says Pauly’s colleague William Cheung. The species that are abandoning tropical fisheries may also be the most important food species for coastal communities that subsist on fishing.

28

19 MAY

THE BELIZE TIMES

2013

Yasser On Books

By Dickie Bradley Knowledge is only good if it is useful. What is the purpose of having knowledge if you cannot put it to any use? What good is it, if for example, you read and acquire a lot of knowledge about the history of the planet and you cannot put such information to any use?

And yet, knowing about things is a value in itself.

These are some thoughts that flowed through my head this morning when I read a short article by Yasser Musa. Yasser is one of my favourite persons, although I hardly know him. He is an artist and an excellent one. But he is also a very practicable man. And he is smart. He would have gotten some of his brain power from his dad, who is very intelligent. I hope he gets none of his father’s bad luck. His dad was very bad-lucked in politics.

Yasser is a lover and a reader of books. That is what endears him to me. His brother Saido manages the Image Factory Bookstore and Saido is practical and insightful. I, here, thank him publicly for all the books he helped me obtain, including the enjoyable “Wolf Hall”

by Hilary Mantel. Did I enjoy reading that. Especially as I no longer read fiction.

It is Saido who for a long time has been pushing me to write a column or write anything for the newspaper. So this is like my first focused effort in a long while. I rather read than write. Too much writing exhausts the mind.

But back to Yasser. On page 28 of the BELIZE TIMES of 14th April, 2013, Yasser briefly introduces a subject matter dear to my heart. Books.

My journey towards books started on the verandah of 7 Wagner’s Lane in Belize City. I could not read during the lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer, or easter because those holidays were for the real world, which if not in Placencia it was always at the Cayes and the seas. The alluring, fascinating, out-of-this-world experience of being at the Cayes. I can entirely understand why thousands of tourists bust off thousands of dollars for a week or two at the Cayes.

Aint nothing that compares with this other world experience.

That is part of the life I grew up in. The other was the world of books.

My grandfather was a sea man. So was his father. They were responsible for the light house at Half Moon Caye and English Caye in the days when every three hours they had to climb up to the

light to replenish it with oil.

As a small child I was taken to Half Moon Caye in a sailing boat. It took nearly two days. I remember it vividly. Fifty two miles in two days, wind in the sail permitted.

My grandfather taught me everything I know and then some.

About the sea and the stars. About squalls and storms. Heavy rains and light pass-overs. About rain clouds, the shifting wind and the rise and fall of the rides. You may not know, but “there is tide in the affairs of men, which taken at the flood, leads on to fortune, omitted, all the voyage of their life is bound in shallows and miseries, on such a full sea are we now afloat.” Who else could have written that but the great Shakespeare in Julius Ceasar.

The sea men friends and family of my grandfather would gather on his verandah on Wagner’s Lane and exchange memories of their adventures at sea. It was there I learnt of the mysterious light at sea, called “Jackie Lantern”, and of Belize’s biggest sharks called “Sapadilly Tom”. I learnt awesome things- fascinating facts and fascinating fictions.

My grandfather’s father was also a seaman. Together they traded the coast as far south as Honduras and Nicaragua. As far north as Cozumel in Mexico and east to the Islands of Roatan.

My grandfather survived the 1931 hurricane on Half Moon Caye by strapping himself to the thickest coconut tree. When the raging waters and the howling winds regained their regular composure his brother, who had likewise tied himself to a sturdy tree, was forever lost to the deep blue sea.

My grandfather made sure I could swim and survive in the sea from I was a tiny tot and he was a giant past his time. He lived for one hundred and two years. I’ll tell you more about him another time.

I taught my children how to swim and appreciate the sea. My youngest son was a fish from he was months old. I would throw him in the pristine waters off English Caye and delight in watching him waddle his little feet and hands and come bubbling back up to the surface unafraid and enjoying every bit of it.

One unforgettable afternoon he was holding on to me. His eyes sinking deep into an unknown world. We were in a distant hospital in December, in Los Angeles. I remember asking God, ‘why you doing this? Why are you taking my son away?’ All these years. All the tears and pain.

I never forgave God. The tide comes in and then the tide goes out.

Reading for me started with the world of comics. As a primary

school child growing up in Belize City with no television and no radio station, entertainment came from the many games, marble, kite-flying, sword fighting, cowboys and indians, cards, chinese checkers, hop scotch, tops, kaparuche, etc. etc.

Movies were fantastic. I had to attend St. John’s Church Service Sunday mornings and Sunday School in the afternoons or no fifteen cents to go to Palace Cinema on Albert Street. Majestic Cinema was mainly for Hispanics and showed “spanish” and english movies.

“The Mighty Thor, God of Thunder” was my favourite comic character, but so were all the others, too numerous to mention here. Everything written and drawn by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby of marvel comic company was a must read. There was a comics store on Albert Street and one down Queen Street. This was hog heaven. Eventually both of them had up hand-written signs forbidding any reading in the store. The devil is a hater.

Girls read True Romance, Little Lotta, Veronica, Sweethearts and that kind of drivel. Drivel my foot, these were part of my reading too.

Before I entered college, Roberto Paloma, who lived next door to Norman Neal on Berkley Street, loaned me “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.”. This was a spy booklet.

No pictures, maybe thirty to forty pages of words. My world changed.

Reading these little books, my imagination was fully engaged. Focused.

It took over the words and formed its own scenes while still hugging on to the writer’s descriptions.

I was swimming in different waters, sailing different seas and travelling along new coasts. The world of books. It was James Bond, Mickey Spillane, Louis Lamour, Lord of the

Rings, Agatha Christie.

I was also an active member of the library. Shelves of old, boring books.

What St. Michael’s College did for me, and specifically why I am utterly, entirely and eternally grateful to my teachers, but especially Colville Young, is this. It is three things. His language and literature students had to read chapters of different books. Comprehension and the ability to summarise.

Whenever we came across new word- dictionary time.

And the third debt I owe Colville Young is for opening up the world of William Shakespeare, and the planet of poetry.

I always wanted to be a poet. Not rebel, not lawyer.

Writer. But bad lucked persons like me never get to be what they really want to be.

I read somewhere that in the breast of many a lawyer is the wreckage of a poet. I guess I’ll reach my grave (hopefully the bottom of the ocean) with the consolation that somewhere inside was the seed of a muse.

“A book is an object and other things.” That’s how Yasser titled his short article. He featured eleven books. I would have listed twelve. Difference in numerology. Yasser listed “PARTY POLITICS IN BELIZE” by Assad Shoman. This is an excellent read and a must for students.

Also listed is “BLAZING TRAILS” by Monrad Metzen.

This is the brief history of the cross country cycling race in 1928. …TO BE CONTINUED…

19 MAY

2013

THE BELIZE TIMES

Keratoconus

Fathers And Homosexuals -

What’s the Relation?

In Belize the topic concerning sexual orientation of its citizens is still a sizzling one. Some men believe they are women and some women believe they are men and some believe they are both men and women! As I listened to a talk show one morning I heard one confused person boastfully declare that the constitution or (Bible) is out of date! This was said in an effort to justify this person’s sexual preference, and it sounded intelligent. It worked as a perfect excuse to completely ignore any instruction given in the manual, and now any man can live as they please because the constitution or Bible is no longer valid. It is out dated and no longer modern and for that matter can be thrown in the trash can!

Before I move on I would like to ask that person one question. It has been thousands of years now since a principle of gravity existed, is it now outdated because we have today’s technology of electronics? Has it gone away now because it is now too old? To many people, the scriptures is simply a story book that can be tossed to and fro worth only to be ignored. Well I must take the time to clarify that the scriptures is not only a law book, but it is actually a treasure chest of principles! Principles that if ignored carry fatal penalties!

As I listened to the different arguments where individuals questioned the way that God made them, I could not help but think of what I consider to be one of the main causes of this situation. Belize is suffering from a deadly disease called fatherlessness. More than half of the problems we face on a daily basis are caused by absent or non-functioning fathers. One of the first questions you should ask as you listen to channel 5 or 7News in our country is “Where was the father in that person’s life?

A properly functioning man or in other words a ‘true father’ is different from a person who makes a child! You are not a father because you made a child!

Now to answer the question in our topic above, I would like to focus on just one of the important functions that determine a true father and that is the issue of “Identity”. A person who does not know whether they are a man or a woman is a person struggling with their identity. Your identity is one of your core foundations as a human being, where everything else is built on! It defines your strengths, your self- worth, self- perception, and even self- potential! When a father is present in a person’s life, one of his main responsibilities is to expose and protect his children and even his wife’s identity. One of the simplest ways that this happens is at birth where the father awards the child with his name and that child is now able to say I am a ‘Jones’, or I am a ‘Williams’ for example.

The big problem is that, sadly, for most children this is as far as their father would go and even in some cases the child is not even awarded that privilege of having his father’s name!

All through a child’s life but more critically starting at the age of twelve and the early teenage years a child needs the father to identify and affirm their identity and potential, which then helps them to adjust their behavior and ultimately direct their purpose and plans for later on in life.

I must stop here but will add in closing that you can live in a home, but yet not be a father rather only a sperm donor! In-fact while in church Sunday I heard the pastor mention that some men actually rape their wives right in the home on a constant basis.

If you are at home but you drink out your money and when you arrive home everyone has to hide because you will beat them, or you are a wife beater, or you have sex with your own children, or you are faithful to let them know on a daily basis how stupid and worthless they are, then you are not a father but a sperm donor.

The folks that are not sure of their identity especially as to whether they are male or female I believe are, sadly, victims of fatherlessness!

Hey dads, let’s become true fathers!

Until next week God bless!

29

By Dr. David Hoy

Tiny fibers of protein in the eye called collagen help hold the cornea in place and keep it from bulging.

When these fibers become weak, they cannot hold the shape and the cornea becomes progressively more

cone shaped. This is called Keratoconus.

Keratoconus appears to run in families. If you have it and have children, it’s a good idea to have their eyes checked for it starting at age 10.

The condition happens more often in people with certain medical problems, including certain allergic conditions. It’s possible the condition could be related to chronic eye rubbing. Most often, though, there is no eye injury or disease that can explain why the eye starts to change.

Keratoconus usually starts in the teenage years. It can, though, begin in childhood or in people up to about age 30.

It’s possible it can occur in people 40 and older, but that is less common.

The changes in the shape of the cornea can happen quickly or may occur over several years. The changes can result in blurred vision, glare and halos at night, and the streaking of lights.

The changes can stop at any time, or they can continue for decades. In most people who have keratoconus, both eyes are eventually affected, although not always to the same extent. It usually develops in one eye first and then later in the other eye.

Keratoconus changes vision in two ways: • As the cornea changes from a ball shape to a cone shape, the smooth surface becomes slightly wavy. This is called irregular astigmatism.

As the front of the cornea expands, vision becomes more nearsighted. That is, only nearby objects can be seen clearly.

Anything too far away will look like a blur.

Symptoms • Sudden change of vision in just one eye • Double vision when looking with just one eye • Objects both near and far looking distorted • Bright lights looking like they have halos around them • Lights streaking • Seeing triple ghost images Treatment Treatment usually starts with new eyeglasses. If eyeglasses don’t provide adequate vision, then contact lenses may be recommended. With mild cases, new eyeglasses can usually make vision clear again. Eventually, though, it will probably be necessary to use contact lenses or seek other treatments to strengthen the cornea and improve vision.

A last resort is a cornea transplant. This involves removing the center of the cornea and replacing it with a donor cornea that is stitched into place.

30

THE BELIZE TIMES

Ministry of Natural Resources continues assault on Public lands in Dangriga Dangriga Town, 9 May 2013 The Ministry of Natural Resources continues to assault and victimize the people of Dangriga Town. On Tuesday 7 May 2013 at about 5:45 PM The Dangriga Town Council confirmed that one Mr. Kelly of Sittee River, without any consultation, was surveying the prime piece of property, Parcel # 1217, situated on Front Street, on the beach north of the Carl Ramos Football Stadium, east of the Ignacia Cacho Library and South of the Dugu Temple within the Juan Lambey Institute Parcel. This maneuver, the Dangriga Town Council believe, is a deliberate attempt by the UDP Central Government to further punish the people of Dangriga and in so doing continue to deprive the residents of Dangriga of their fundamental rights to earn a living.

This sustained onslaught will further plunge the residents into poverty. Furthermore, this is clearly a case of political and cultural isolation, and an assault on fundamental human rights of the people of Dangriga. This Policy and agenda will therefore further marginalize and keep the residents of Dangriga dispossessed.

In 2002 this property Parcel # 1217 was surveyed by the Dangriga Town Council and an Application for Grant of National Land was lodged at the Ministry of Natural Resources on 7 February 2002, File # 759/02. Since that time subsequent Councils have sought to finalize this transaction with a view to provide the infrastructure for Tourism and Economic Development for the people of Dangriga.

Despite the efforts of this Council, the Ministry of Natural Resources continuously denied the people of the Title to this Property. Similar to how the people were denied of property on the Foot of the main bridge spanning the North Stann

GOB is refusing the Dangriga Town Council control of this important heritage property Creek River. Reportedly, the reason why the People and Town Council are denied is because the United Democratic Party (UDP) aided by Central Government plans to build a Headquarters for the UDP Executive Dangriga Branch there.

The Dangriga Town Council on behalf of the residents of Dangriga is very much disappointed and hereby condemns the action of the Ministry of Natural Resources. This action of continuously denying the people the use of public land is a glaring signal of the UDP Central Government continued effort to deprive the people of Dangriga of the necessary infrastructure for creation of wealth.

This action is also consistent with the stipulations the “National Sustainable Tourism Master Plan for Belize 2030” which also demonstrates the UDPs Policy of excluding the people of Dangriga from national development. Furthermore, these actions are contrary to the mantra, “One People, One Government, One Belize” that is displayed all over the country The Dangriga Town Council hereby requests the Government of Belize to demonstrate compassion and to include Dangriga in all its national developmental strategies.

Mayor Bradley’s war on northern Belize Continued from page 2 of the “northerners” who did not want the “southerners” invading their space. The idea of the $10 toll was therefore to discourage cross-river traffic. This is exactly what the “Bradley Toll” will do: discourage cross-river traffic to the detriment of Belize City businesses. Strangely, we have heard nothing from the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry regarding the “Bradley Toll”.

At a time when there is already a growing divide between Belize City and the rest of this country Mayor Bradley would be well advised to reexamine his punitive view of the rest of us. Yes the entire country deserves good infrastructure but that is why we pay taxes. What we need is not more taxes but rather, better management of current revenues coupled with sound investment by GOB in the right sectors (including infrastructure). The people of Belize deserve a decent highway as envisioned by the Mayor but to suggest that every time we demand that government improve our infrastructure we must pay “additional” taxes seems wholly ridiculous to me when they keep squandering the taxes we are already paying.

Finally let me say to the residents of Ladyville/Lords Bank that they should seriously consider becoming Belize’s next town. I shall tell you more on that soon.

Signed: Major Lloyd Jones (Ret’d) May 15, 2013

19 MAY

2013

Audrey Matura Shepherd cautions Mayor Darrel Bradley Continued from page 2 we are to represent an honorable and noble profession and we are to be seen as a singular professional standard.

I believe you are a young and a promising person, and I feel that even in your public life you would have ensured that your Christian values prevail and that politics would not have changed you, but rather you would have changed politics.

I understand you want to reform the procedure for undertakers, but in the interim, that is no reason for you to disobey an order of the court, for which you could now be brought you up for contempt of an order. As an attorney representing your client , Belize City Council, you know all too well the importance of not violating and order and to act within our Constitution which says we recognizes the “rule of law”…. you are not above the law!

Mr. Coye should now seek the services of the police to enforce his right to enter and work at the cemetery and his attorney, Andrew Marshalleck should be moving diligently to bring contempt charges against a fellow attorney. I believe he has given you ample time, one month to be concise, since to the order… now its time to act against the Council and you the titular head.

But as one colleague to another, [since you still are practicing as an attorney in your own private firm and remain on the roll, while mayor] I must remind you of the provisions in the Legal Professional Act (LPA) as it cannot be that your conduct as mayor conflicts with that of being a member of the Bar. Both offices expect from you nothing but the highest standard of integrity and respect of the law. LPA states at section 16: “An attorney owes a duty to the State to maintain its integrity, its constitution and its laws and not to aid, abet, counsel or assist anyone ‘to act in any way contrary to those laws.”

I am saddened to see that one of my fellow brothers in Christ would not see anything wrong with disobeying an order of the court, because even though we know the laws of God should reign supreme in our life, while on earth we are ordered to obey the laws of our society. As a born-again Christian you must represent one singular-God ordained standard as well and so it reminds me of when the disciples asked Jesus whether they should obey the laws of Caesar and pay taxes. At John 12: 16-17: “They brought the coin, and he asked them, “Whose image is this?

And whose inscription?” “Caesar’s,” they replied. And Jesus said to them, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” And they were amazed at Him.” Give people like me hope that there are still a few good men who could lead this nation by example.

God be with you.

Respectfully, Audrey Matura-Shepherd A Belizean

19 MAY

2013

X-Mas Day pick axe murder trial concludes Continued from page 6

Liquor License NOTICES Notice is hereby given that FRANCINE LAVERN AUGUST AND DARWIN AUGUST is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “The Water Hole”, situate at 26 ½ Miles Phillip S.W. Goldson Highway, Biscayne Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor Licensing Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that ELISEO GUARDADO is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Kendra’s Shop”, situate at San Felipe Village, Orange Walk District under the Intoxicating Liquor Licensing Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

31

Police shoot to kill Punta Gorda, May 13, 2013 The Police Department has launched an investigation into the shooting death of Rasheed Elijio who was killed by a Police Officer while reportedly attempted to escape.

On Friday May 10th, Elijio was being escorted by Punta Gorda Police officials to prison on the public bus, the 5:00am James Bus. At the time, Eligio was handcuffed to Brian Garcia, another detainee. According to the Police, both men bolted in an attempt to escape and they set chase after them.

Three hours later, the Police Station in Punta Gorda received a phone call from Constable David Griffith, who

informed them that Elijio was shot during the alleged escape.

Griffith claimed they followed the handcuffed men as far as the Carib Reserved Area where they didn’t stop, so the Police shot them.

One of the shots caught Elijio in the left side and he fell to the ground.

By the time he arrived at the Punta Gorda hospital, he was pronounced dead.

Punta Gorda residents are outraged at the incident, claiming the Police’s actions were unjustified.

The Punta Gorda Town Council also decried the abuse of authority and called for an investigation.

The officer involved, Constable David Griffith, has a history of controversy at the Department. Griffith, who is a Belize City based officer,

was transferred to Punta Gorda following the 2010 shooting death of 21 year old Teddy Murillo.

This incident also follows recent other controversial Police killings. On Thursday April 18th, when Police responded to a report of a burglary, they caught 21 year old Ryan Lozano in the act. The Police say he advanced towards them menacingly and they shot him. But Lozano’s mother claims the allegations are false and that her son should have been arrested and charged, but not killed.

Lozano was shot in his back with an AR-15 Rifle. This matter is also under Police investigation.

CARTOON

ney Musa submitted that in light of the fact that there was no evidence to even remotely connect Jose Garcia to the crime of murder, he would be requesting the judge to give the appropriate direction to the jury that the accused had no case to answer.

With that directive, the foreman of the jury announced the verdict that Jose Garcia was found not guilty and Garcia was allowed to leave the court a free man.

THE BELIZE TIMES is informed that there is a hefty backlog of murder trials which are languishing in the Court. The judges of the Supreme Court have complained that attorneys have not been readily assisting the Court to get these matters dealt with. We applaud attorney Kareem Musa for taking on legal aid assignment and being a leader by his actions of assisting the justice system to work. This is commendable and we encourage more attorneys to follow his lead.

THE BELIZE TIMES

32

THE BELIZE TIMES

19 MAY

2013