Belize Times September 1, 2013

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The Belize Times

Established 1957

1 SEPTEMBER 2013 | ISSUE NO: 4860

The Truth Shall Make You Free

www.belizetimes.bz

|

$1.00

NTUCB backs PAC Reform PUP, Chamber & Unions tell PM to end charade

Pg. 3

PUP Leader Hon. Francis Fonseca flanked by Opposition members declares the PUP’s commitment to reform

Fire guts Ramon’s Village Resort

Pg. 6

WHAT IS BARROW HIDING? Belize City, August 29, 2013 Before the 2008 general elections Dean Barrow, as the Leader of the Opposition, was in a self-righteous frenzy, shouting catchy buzz words like “transparency” and “accountability”. As a matter of fact, in his first public

Pg. 4

Faber shuts down another school Pg. 9

Sweet Deals & Dying Reefs

Pg. 31

2 02

OPINION OUT

OUT

Colonial Barrow

!

Dear Editor For the better part of most of our lifetimes, if you are older than thirty, we the people of this country have witnessed and participated by the thousands and for many decades in our political and economic struggles against a ruthless, oppressive and exploitative British colonial government. For years they controlled and divided us into races living apart from each other. They inculcated a culture of superiority by their house niggers and a selected handful of royal creoles in the Colonial Civil Service. It remains a deeply imbedded psychosis of the Prime Minister and by extension, his government.

But, we the people, the grassroots, the Salt of the Belizean Earth, continued in our struggle against British Colonial racism, oppression and lack of opportunities to forge a national identity as Belizeans and as one people with one Belizean but diverse culture.

We should never entertain, as this government has, the disrespect shown to us by representatives of Norwegian Cruise Line. It is obvious that this is only the beginning of the disrespect that will be shown to us collectively. It is disrespect that will be shown to others in the local tourism industry. With the encouragement of this reckless government, they are also ignoring the country’s environmental laws.

NCL will have a laissez-faire as they have already paid protection money to influential government ministers and other officials.

We have been reliably informed that one official who sat with a grin at the obnoxious NCL press conference and who is a strong proponent of NCL’s Continued on page 20

LOCAL 30 Aug

1 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

!

OUT

OUT

From Speaker to Speaker!

Demanding FIU Action

!

Evan Hyde Obsession

Dear Editor, After reading the From the Publisher in the midweek Amandala issue, I have no choice but to conclude that the publisher is a serial writer with a sick obsession with Said Musa and the PUP. It is as if his many pens with ink and container load of paper is aimed solely first Said, then Francis and the PUP. It is as if Prime Minister Dean Barrow does not exist.

Mr. X, why does your pen ignore the current Barrow Administration? Is it that you are afraid to call a spade a spade? Or are you working on behalf of Barrow? Or perhaps you believe that you are Meredict in the series White Queen who believes he is the King Maker.

Your obsession with the PUP is like that of a SERIAL KILLER who stalks his victim for as long as it takes to satisfy an evil psychological compulsion.

The irony of it all is that while the X points his knife at the former PUP leader, it was the same PUP leader who gave him his many pens, ink and loads of paper. It is true, that one must be careful who to trust and call a friend.

This friendship that existed between Evan X and the PUP benefitted the publisher immensely and perhaps solely. He still continues to drive his Toyota Prado, obtained while he was Chairman of the University of Belize under the PUP. He now has a prominent business in the newspaper, and seemed to have mastered the art of political opportunism and expediency, practiced on the PUP. Nothing is wrong with constructive criticism, but what Evan X shows is clearly an obsession. That makes it personal. Word to the wise Mr. X, don’t take things personal for the world is a cycle.

Free up yourself.

Signed, B. Foreman, PUP supporter

2013

21st August, 2013

Hon. Michael Peyrefitte Speaker House of Representatives Independence Hill City of Belmopan Dear Hon. Michael Peyrefitte

As former Speakers of the House Representatives, we write to you to register, for the record, our strong disapproval and dismay regarding the conduct publicly displayed in the House of Representatives over several months and in particular the behaviour of the Member for Mesopotamia at the last House meeting on August 7, 2013.

We believe that the crude verbal attack by the said Member which was directed at the Member for Belize Rural Central represents a low point of conduct in the National Assembly, and such behaviour cannot be allowed to continue.

We are confident that you will agree that the Belizean people’s business must be carried out in an atmosphere of cordiality and respect, not only for yourself as Speaker but also for all Members of the House of Representatives. The authority and dignity of the House should never be brought into disrepute and we, therefore, insist that an atmosphere of respect for the Speaker and for both sides of the aisle has to be restored.

The Belizean people, more and more are expressing their disgust with the crude and offensive behaviour that has been displayed.

This disrespect, especially towards the only woman Member of the House, has been roundly condemned by men and women alike.

Therefore, we must express our firmly held view that such abuse and shameful behaviour cannot be Continued on page 20

1 Sep

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The Belize Times

Established 1957

14 APR 2013

|

ISSUE NO: 4840

The Truth Shall Make You Free

www.belizetimes.bz

|

$1.00

serving Belize since 1957 as the longest continuous newspaper.

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

Alberto Vellos LAYOUT/GRAPHIC ARTIST

Chris Williams

OFFICE ASSISTANT

Roberto Peyrefitte Printed and Published By The Belize Times Press Ltd.

weather 31 Aug

!

Dear Editor, I agree with last week’s letter calling on the Financial Intelligence Unit to investigate the member from Port Loyola who is flagrantly flaunting his ill-gotten gains in our faces.

That one building he is doing on Cemetery Road is at minimum $400,000.

Where did he get that money?

But I must ask, Mr. Editor, why stop at Boots? What about Gapi and his the land hustles in the Ministry of Natural Resources? What about the Rosewood scandal involving the blatant robbery of profits that should have gone into the public funds? And what about Castro… did he ever settle the matter of the land scam for which he was accused by an American woman?

How about the woman Senator who has gobbled up so many houses in such a short time?

I say investigate them too. Sad to say, I don’t expect the FIU to budge. The lady with the coloring hair seems to be more of a political lackey than a professional. Her policy seems to be: see no evil, hear no evil, investigate no evil.

It will take the FIU under a PUP Government to right the wrongs under the UDP. Only then will Boots get to show where all his money for the yellow houses is coming from. Indeed, at a Minister’s salary the maths just doesn’t add up.

Signed, Wayne Hope

2 Sep

263 Mar Sep

Tel: 671-8385 #3 Queen Street P.O. BOX 506 Belize City, Belize

27 Mar Sep 6 4Feb

Email: belizetimesadvertisement@yahoo.com

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1 SEP

2013

THE BELIZE TIMES

NTUCB backs PAC Reform PUP, Chamber & Unions tell PM to end charade Belize City, August 28, 2013 The People’s United Party’s efforts to reform governance in Belize, even while in Opposition, got a tremendous boost this week when the Chamber of Commerce and National Trade Union Congress of Belize reiterated their support.

The organisations, which represent the private sector and workers, have once more called on the Government to ensure that the Public Accounts Committee, an oversight body that reviews and investigates public expenditure, is a functional body.

On Tuesday August 27th, the Opposition members led by PUP Leader Hon. Francis Fonseca stood on Independence Hill in the capital, City of Belmopan, to make a public declaration and commitment that the PUP will fight for the reform of the PAC. “The Belizean people are demanding REFORM and SOLUTIONS to the many very serious problems and challenges facing them and our Country each and every day, NOT more UDP POLITICS,” stated Hon. Francis.

The Party Leader also condemned the Prime Minister’s constant attempts to undermine and erode the reform efforts for the PAC. The declaration, shown in black and

PAC Chairman Hon. Julius Espat has called for a public meeting on Wednesday September 4th.

Will the Government members show up? white, had the signatures of all 14 Opposition House of Representatives members and the 3 Opposition Senate members.

PUP Leader Hon. Francis declared that if the UDP denies the Belizean people a better system of governance, the PUP will not.

“We declare that within the first one hundred days of the next PUP government, we shall implement this proposed reform of the Public Accounts

Committee,” he said.

While the PUP made a strong public declaration on Tuesday, the NTUCB on Wednesday, bolstered by their strong belief that this is the right thing for Belize, issued a bold statement rejecting the Prime Minister’s excuses for not allowing the proposed changes to realise.

The NTUCB supports PAC reform because it would see an end to political manipulation and allow the meaningful

03 3 participation of civil society groups who are becoming increasingly concerned about public spending.

The NTUCB disagreed with the Prime Minister’s notion that the proposed restructuring of PAC was “procedurally flawed”.

The NTUCB said that the PM has it wrong, and that as it is constituted the PAC does not follow the Standing Orders.

The Standing Orders, they explained, state that Committees should reflect a balance of parties in the House.

“PAC’s composition MUST be addressed to align it with the very Standing Orders with which it should legally conform,” the NTUCB declared.

The NTUCB also shot down the PM’s assertion that a restructuring of PAC would be “costly”, discarding the credibility of the excuse. The Union movement was bewildered by the Prime Minister’s suggestion that the UDP members of the PAC will proceed on a witch-hunt by holding PAC meetings whether or not the Chairman or any member of the PUP are present.

“This would go against the very spirit and principles of the Standing orders, that is, transparency, democracy and accountability,” said the NTUCB release.

The NTUCB’s strong position has not been well-received by the UDP. As expected, on Thursday morning, UDP PAC member John Saldivar launched an attack on NTUCB President Dylan Reneau, in an attempt to intimidate the NTUCB. But Reform, Good Governance, Transparency and Accountability are more important than the UDP’s petty agendas and their propaganda.

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1 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

WHAT IS BARROW HIDING?

Continued from page 1 address as Prime Minister of Belize, Barrow pledged that he would chop down even a “whiff” of corruption.

Six years later, the writing on the wall tells a very different tale. Dean Barrow sits at the helm of a government rocked by scandal and hustles. From his Ministers and CEO’s right down to their drivers and cronies, our public funds have been a free-for all. No one can recall the last time the words transparency and accountability were uttered from Dean Barrow’s mouth.

But it is not the PUP that is making Barrow’s name “stink da road”. His own Auditor General has issued a report in black and white that gives a damning review of Barrow’s tenure as Prime Minister of Belize.

Two weeks ago, the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), the Hon. Julius Espat, presented a motion in the House which proposed to give teeth to the PAC. The motion would see members of the churches, the unions and the business sector placed in fiduciary positions to ensure that the public funds were being spent in accordance with the budget and that the hustling would once and for all come to an end.

As fate would have it, immediately upon the conclusion of the presentation of the Espat’s motion, the first and only

individual to get up in the House to challenge the motion was none other that the Prime Minister himself.

His first line of attack was to utilize his legal skills to get the matter struck out on a technicality. Barrow refused to address the merits and to acknowledge the real change that could be brought about by such a progressive proposition.

After that House Meeting, public discourse and attention increased and press releases came in from the Chamber and the NTUCB supporting the reform to the PAC as proposed by the PUP. With his back against the wall, Barrow then sent out his second line of attack, one that proved to be legally and democratically unsound. He sent out a release from Cabinet ordering the PAC to start their revision proceedings from the year 1998.

What Barrow failed to realize is that the PAC is an autonomous body and Cabinet has no legal standing to issue orders to the PAC or its Chairman.

Secondly, Dean Barrow once again failed to realize that the mandate of the Hon. Julius Espat is to review government spending (or rather misspending) that is taking place NOW, not 15 years ago.

In typical Barrow-style politics, he is attempting to distract Belizeans from what is really taking place under his

2013 stewardship. He wants the blame game on the past to continue. He wants us to look in the rear view mirror while he drives our economy off the financial cliff.

Continued on page 6

A small excerpt from the 2010/2011 Auditor’s Genertal Report

Look like only Barrow fu eat!

NEPOTISM = CORRUPTION

Lois Young Barrow (Ex-Wife)

Anwar Barrow (Son)

Shyne Barrow (Son)

Kimano Barrow (Nephew) PUC Board Member/Granted Oil Exploration Licence

Naima Barrow (Niece) Appointed to Election and Boundaries Commission

Liesje Barrow (Niece) Appointed to Belize Advisory Council

United Nations Ambassador

Appointed to BTL Board

Cultural Ambassador

Denys Barrow (Brother)

Appointed to Court of Appeal/Private Attorney for GOB

Cheryl Krusen (formerly Barrow) Appointed to Solicitor General

DEAN BARROW IS BELIZE’S BIGGEST PROBLEM!!!

1 SEP

2013

THE BELIZE TIMES

05 5

EDITORIAL

T

GOOD NEWS

his is a healthy time for the People’s United Party. The secure and steady leadership of Francis Fonseca has yielded a public confidence and an internal Party energy long repressed. Hon. Francis represents a real time symbol of progressive and mature politics.

As an enduring political force the PUP has no rival.

Mr. Price guaranteed this with his legacy.

The PUP’s overloaded talent base has been both the restraint and the fuel for its dominance. Our leadership appears battle ready, resolved, focused and unified by a singular sense of purpose. This will be extremely important within the next three years when political mischief, outright manipulation and unseen desperation by the UDP will be at a feverish high.

Our estimation at the BELIZE TIMES is that the images, twists and open criminal acts of political interference exhibited by the UDP in 2008 and 2012 will pale in comparison to the next general election.

We would wish it to be otherwise but the penchant to violence, arrogance and delusion, which is classically UDP, will be in full bloom within the next few years.

Watch it… because relinquishing the flighty fiveyear cover of the political power, will make, very many UDP candidates sell their mothers.

But Belize is in a good place. There is one undeniable fact in Belize’s socio-political history: when the PUP is healthy, Belize is healthy.

Most political analysts will agree that the flood of fresh talent, “returnees” and “offerees” willing to take the PUP shield and sword, is at the very least, comforting.

It has been a long march in the wilderness of opposition for the PUP and this has been the longest the Party has ever been out of Government. But this time has made the Party stronger, leaner and radically more reflective of its role in national development.

Recently, the most powerful indicator of our rejuvenation, for us at BELIZE TIMES, is the sense that loyalty has returned to the ideals of the PUP. The strength of the PUP is when we are united. The current level of loyalty to each other has not existed

since pre-2005.

The Party as an institution has taken its hits from traitors and detractors. Rank and file questioned the fad that had long standing PUP’s acting independent or distancing themselves like Peter being questioned in the courtyard about his association with Jesus the Nazarene.

We recall the big tent policy. The PUP is a party of inclusion. This is an extension of the PUP’s creed of social justice and redemption. However, one negative side effect from the big tent policy was that it allowed cowards and opportunists to move without detection.

The worst byproduct of it, however, was that it created a false comfort and an unmonitored vulnerability.

The big tent policy is clearly still a fundamental principle of the new PUP but it bears the sober, stillness and clairvoyance of the current PUP leadership.

It is being extended with love and a prodigal son’s healing joy. The PUP is happy again. They are at work.

Surely, there will be jostling, distractions, political mischief and propaganda spins. PUP business will dominate the airwaves, taxi stands and fish markets. It will be almost as if there is no Government. But there is a positive reason for this. The UDP is done. The people of Belize are looking forward so the political strategy of the UDP will be to muddy PUP water. No one is looking at them anymore.

On reflection, the beginning of the PUP’s intramural tremors reminds the BELIZE TIMES of the 2007 Democratic National Convention Campaign season.

That Presidential Convention for the Democrats was the elections. The Democrats intra party debates were the only news. It overshadowed and reduced the Republican presidential candidate to ambient noise.

The question was whether the US would have either a black man or a woman as president. Very few in the world still remember who was the republican presidential candidate in 2007.

The story, then, is not the details of which individual is running for a particular constituency. The story is that the PUP has crossed the hump. We have regained our swagger. We have regained our sense of loyalty. We are locked in and engaged.

In the streets, the people are sensing that our David in Francis Fonseca will slay this Goliath.

6 06

THE BELIZE TIMES

Fire guts Ramon’s Village Resort Belize City, August 29, 2013 One of San Pedro’s most popular resorts, Ramon’s Village, was substantially destroyed by a fire on Tuesday night.

Fire Officials say the fire originated from one of the cabins just before 8pm, and spread quickly through 29 of the 73 cabanas. It destroyed the office area, the restaurant, gift shop and other facilities.

The over 20 guests who were staying at the resort found safe refuge instantly. Most of them were able to salvage their belongings, while a few could not and are now seeking the Ministry of Tourism’s assistance in recovering their documents and getting them back home.

Owner of the resort, Richard Hendrick, said he will return to Belize to assess the damages. In a statement to the press, he said he is positive they will be able to restore the popular tourist spot.

“Our hearts are broken that our beloved Ramon’s has suffered such damage. Over the past twenty-seven years tens of thousands of guests have visited Ramon’s Village and had the time of their lives.

In a short time, the Ramon’s Village that our many guests and friends have come to love and adore will be back hosting guests, and, Lord willing, our little piece of paradise will be better than ever!”

WHAT IS BARROW HIDING?

Continued from page 4 What was most outrageous about Barrow’s release is that he stated that reforming the PAC would be too costly. Needless to say, the NTUCB and the Chamber have come out in full force against Barrow to say that such an excuse is poor, insulting and downright disrespectful.

Mr. Prime Minister, the people of Belize have had enough of your legal wiggling out of situations. They want to see what you are hiding. They want to see who you are protecting. They want to know exactly how many millions of dollars you have gifted away to your exwife, your brother, your sons and your daughter.

It is time for us to see the real slim shady.

1 SEP

2013

1 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

2013

07 7

“Norwegian” Exposes its Racist Policies and Cultural Insensitivity Impelled by Greed and Profits, it wants to make Belizeans a part of its Disney circus August 27, 2013

By Norris Hall IN a “facey” and barefaced display of arrogance, greed and cultural insensitivity, the Project Director for Norwegian Cruise Line’s controversial proposal to build a massive cruise ship port in an eco-sensitive area of southern Belize, a gringo, placed on display at a recent press conference, his company’s agenda to exploit the resources of Belize and its people, to the hilt.

He posed as if he was the return of Christopher Columbus, along with his entourage carrying a glittering golden cross as a magic wand to take our land or as a slave master witnessing the arrival of his Negroes being unloaded from the slave ship Amistad.

Boasting its justification for what NCL sees in Belize as an attractive destination, he spoke of the people of Belize as though they were a primitive ethnic curiosity which his company plans to include in a Disneyland-like display that will be a corollary to Tarzan and Jane-type movies. It would be interesting to know about what he really thinks of us as a people and of our struggles out of the British colonial experience and the indignities we suffered under the British Crown.

Like, and no doubt with the endorsement of Papa Barrow’s government, he is going along with their subtle introduction of neo-colonialism.

“The place in time”, he said, “is the heritage of Belize with the Mayan through the Garifuna and the TRANSFER of people from other parts of the Caribbean and Africa to the coast of Central America.”

He added that it is the only place

PUP NOTICE

Belmopan Standard Bearer Convention The People’s United Party Standard Bearer Convention for the Belmopan Electoral Division is scheduled for November 3, 2013.

Applications can be picked up from the Secretariat or Mr. Paul Castillo, Chairman for Belmopan Executive Committee.

Completed applications are to be submitted to Mr. Paul Castillo and the Secretary General. The non-refundable fee is to be submitted to the Secretariat along with the necessary documentation to complete the application package.

Deadline for submission is October 3, 2013.

in the world we can tell the story effectively and be real. Yet, while he wants to tell a “real story about a real people” he also wants to “train and have people tell their story”.

It gets worse: “We are going to tell the guests what we are going to do is the dance called ‘the Dugu’”.

Adding to this offence assault on our cultures were the fact that two Government Ministers - the government’s point-man in steering the NCL investment, the Minister of Labour and Immigration, Godwin Hulse; the Minister of Tourism and Culture Manuel Herredia; as well as the Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Trade and Investment, the infamous Mike Singh who has denied any personal interest in the project although the contrary is known to be true.

INSULTED ENOUGH TO USE CURSE WORDS! They all lapped-up this presentation. It was, truth be told, offensive to watch and listen while three official blind mice took on the persona of Mickey. It is difficult under such circumstance to refrain from using expletives.

It was right and proper for the leaders of both the Maya and Garifuna people to have issued scathing statements against this type of cultural exploitation that obviously has the endorsement of the Barrow administration which has imbedded in its DNA a pro-British, “royal creole” attitude and aloofness that are indicative of the Prime Minister.

The National Garifuna Council slammed NCL and its Project Director who is obviously not sensitive to the cultures of black people other than what he may have lived, or is Continued on page 12

0 88

1 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

WOMAN IN THE HOUSE

By Dolores Balderamos Garcia

PLEASE, MR. SPEAKER The fallout from the now infamous Finnegan incident in the House of Representatives on August 7, 2013 seems to be extensive. As far as can be seen the condemnation has been virtually universal, and I have been surprised at the numerous expressions of support and solidarity. I am very grateful. This whole episode is not about me at all. It is about the resounding call for better conduct from our leaders.

I have said to myself that I will not hold my breath waiting for a sincere apology that may not come.

However, many persons have said that nothing less than an apology in the House of Representatives will do. Personally, I strongly feel that the fourteen of us on the Opposition side cannot return to the House of Representatives on the next occasion as if nothing has happened.

My mother used to tell us that “it’s an ill wind indeed that blows no good.” I believe that the good that can come from this is that the Speaker, the Government side, the Opposition... all concerned... can resolve that this will not happen again. In so many ways our country is in crisis.

We have got to do something quickly and the House of Representatives can discuss and debate our national agenda in a respectful, cordial manner. Belizeans are clamouring for it. And thanks to everyone young and old, male and female who have called, texted, emailed or stopped me on the street with this message. I truly appreciate the outpouring of solidarity for a sea change.

Regarding the massive outpouring of solidarity for better conduct, and with permission, I want to quote verbatim just two of the numerous messages I have received, one from a Belizean man in the Stann Creek District and the other from a Belizean woman in the United States.

The first says: “I must take some time to reach out to you concerning

what that j......s did last week. I so needed to fire off a public letter to Belizeans condemning the ignorance and disrespect shown to you. I can’t apologize for someone else, but I do feel badly about the vitriol thrown at you. And I know you’re a toughie, and you could have expected such crude and crass behavior, but I think most civilized folks were taken by surprise. And it seems that the cat still doesn’t get it based on what I just read moments ago. Not much sincerity or personal apology there.”

The second says: “I am writing to express my solidarity with you in the matter of the utterly deplorable words and action by Michael Finnegan against you in the House of Representatives Wednesday last.

Mr. Finnegan’s actions were not only disrespectful to you in your capacity as a duly elected representative, but more so, his actions showed a total disrespect and disregard for you as a woman and by extension, for all of us women. And indeed, by his actions and words he showed no regard and no respect for all Members of the House.

His was gutter talk and gutter action and these have no place in our House of Representatives. How on earth do we encourage women of our country to go in for electoral politics when they see this kind of threatening, demeaning behavior exhibited by a senior politician against our sole woman representative in the House. Dolores, as a representative of the people of Belize, you had EVERY right to draw attention to unbecoming behavior.

Do not be bowed or intimidated by the actions of Mr. Finnegan, or for that matter by the actions of anyone else in the course of exposing wrongdoing and standing up for what is right and proper. I am standing with you.”

Please, Mr. Speaker, take heed.

We can and we must do better.

PUP NOTICE

2013

For Sale

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 25th day of July, 2008, between JAVIER CASTELLANOS of the one part, and the said SCOTIABANK (BELIZE) LTD. of the other part , and recorded at the Land Titles Unit in Deeds Book Volume 27 of 2008 at folios 329 – 396. 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 or parcel of land being a portion of Grant No. 396 of 1993 and containing approximately 2.391 acres of land, situate in the Arenal Agricultural Layout, Cayo District, Belize. The said 2.391 acres is shown in Plan 396 of 1993 dated 13 September, 1993 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon.

Belize Rural South Constituency Committee The People’s United Party is accepting applications for members of the Belize Rural South Constituency Committee.

Application forms are available at the San Pedro PUP office or the PUP Secretariat, Independence Hall, #3 Queen Street, Belize City.

Application must be filled and returned to the Secretariat, addressed to the Secretary General by Friday August 30, 2013.

DATED this 15th day of August, 2013.

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

1 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

2013

Sweetheart deal between CitCo and UDP Crony?

Belize City, August 29, 2013 There seems to be a toogood-of-a-kind relationship between City Hall and the Arguelles family and their architecture company, International Environments.

The Arguelles Company has been awarded a series of lucrative contracts such as the monstrous, multi-million dollar Memorial Park construction and the controversial project at the Battlefield Park that has inconvenienced and angered taxi operators.

Both contracts total over $4 million.

Inside UDP sources have indicated to the BELIZE TIMES that the Arguelles Company will soon be given the nod to carry out a $2.5m project at the Commercial Center. While confirmation of this was not forthcoming, our sources insisted that the UDP-affiliated company is heavily favored for city projects.

Partners in I.E. are well known UDPs. Emil Arguelles, whose family members have shares in I.E., was the former UDP-appointed House Speaker.

Our sources pointed out that this sweet business relationship is cemented by political loyalty to the Mayor, who has begun to formalize his campaign in the Caribbean Shores division. The Arguelles family will shower Mayor Bradley with roses and flowers and in return the Council keeps them busy.

But there seems to be an interesting aspect of the work carried out by I.E. Residents have asked what is the purpose of the larger than life flower pot that sits on the stage at the historic Memorial Park. It appears that the permanent floral arrangements at every project site is meant to secure long-term business.

RIP

Anthony C. Belize City, August 29, 2013 The BELIZE TIMES notes the passing of Anthony Gilbert Reneau aka Anthony C, one of Belize’s most well-known Deejays.

Anthony C was laid to rest on August 27 at the Lord Ridge Cemetery.

Anthony C leaves behind 23 children – his girlfriend Queenie and a host of relatives.

At the time of his passing, Anthony C was a co-host of the Business Hour which aired on Monday nights on LOVE FM. Anthony C – Sunrise October 31 1952 – Sunset August 19, 2013.

BELIZE TIMES

The fastest selling newspaper in Belize

09 9 Faber shuts down another school Belize City, August 29, 2013 On the heels of a scathing Inter-American Development Bank report that exposed serious inequalities in Belize’s education, including evidence that more than half of Belize’s secondary school-aged children remained out of school, the Ministry of Education led by Patrick Faber has closed down another school.

This new school year will be extremely tougher for hundreds of students and their parents as a result of the Ministry’s decision to shut down the school in Sagitun Farm, a community in the Stann Creek District. The over 100 students will now have to travel over 25 miles, to Maya Center, to attend classes. This is, of course, if their parents can afford to pay their travelling expenses.

Students who reside in Placencia but attend the school in Mango Creek will also find it more difficult, as their most convenient form of transportation which had been a 10-minute boat drive, has been ordered to discontinue by the Ministry of Education.

Instead, the Ministry is forcing the students to board a bus that takes one hour to get to its destination.

These illogical decisions by the Ministry will have negative effects on the students. These are the kinds of decisions that force students out of the classroom because their parents, already burdened by costly books and school fees, don’t have the extra money to pay for transportation.

The BELIZE TIMES understands that the decisions to close down the school at Sagitun Farm and to end the most convenient mode of transport for students between Placencia and Maya Center, were made to give UDP political cronies bus runs.

To please their lackeys, the UDP has put the education of hundreds of students in jeopardy.

The damning IDB report spoke to the misguided policies of our education system. It revealed that the school enrolment gap between the wealthiest and poorest groups of primary school students was increasing. It also pointed out that children living in rural areas are less likely to attend school than those in urban areas, especially at the secondary level.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

The Battle over Belize Ex-Services League: Canada House Belize City, Thursday 29th August, 2013 The National Executive Council of the Belize Ex Services League headed by Mr. Bernard Adolphus was back in Court today trying to lock out the members of the League’s Belize City Branch from the use of the League headquarters known as Canada House at the Newtown Barracks.

Appearing for the Executive Council was Attorney Hubert Elrington S.C. and representing the members of the Belize City Branch of the League was Attorney Said Musa S.C. Canada House was a gift to the members of the Belize Ex Services League by the Royal Canadian Legion of Ex Servicemen decades ago. Over these many years the Belize City Branch of the League has utilized the lower flat of the building as their meeting place and recreation centre. Now the Executive Council wants to throw them out. The Belize City Branch has for years complained that this Executive Council has been acting in a high handed manner. In fact they contend that the Executive was not legally elected at least since 2006.

Under the Belize Ex Services Act 28 of 2001, all the members of the League in good standing should have the right to vote every two years fro their executive.

What this Executive headed by Mr. Adolphus has been doing every two years is to

hand pick only two members of the Branch and together with the Executive members vote themselves back into office. This was described by Mr. Justice Abel in Court this morning as “a self-perpetuating oligarchy.”

Until proper elections are held next March 2014 the Judge made an interim order to maintain harmony in the League.

All members of the League have a right to reasonable use of the public areas of the property known as Canada House.

When however the Belize City Branch of the League wants to use the premises as a Branch such as for any activity including meetings, dances and other gatherings the Branch should apply for permission of the League and such permission should not be unreasonably withheld by the Executive of the League.

In an article appearing in the Amandala for Sunday 18th August, 2013, Mr. Adolphus was quoted as saying: “we want comradeship. The building can be shared between both entities” (the Executive and the Branch). Several Branch members have told the BELIZE TIMES that they will hold Mr. Adolphus to that commitment.

The case will be called up again on November 25, 2013 for the Judge to review how the members as a whole are resolving their differences.

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FACES & OPINIONS

2013

by Micah Vernon

How do you plan to celebrate this September?

Harrison

I plan to spend it with my lady, have a nice time and avoid all violence. But most of all be patriotic with my fellow Belizeans.

Monica

Go out with friends and watch the carnival parade and basically enjoy ourselves and the holidays.

Kalifa

Plan to go with friends and enjoying watching the parade.

Maegan

I’ll go to the Expo, go to the St. Georges Caye Ceremony and watch the Cycling Race. Not too much of a fan of the Carnival Road March.

Tiffara

The Tip of the Iceberg

I usually attend the 21st Ceremony, watch the parade and partake in the Road March this year.

I usually also attend the Parade in Orange Walk.

Reforming PAC and Calling for Re-Registration Belize City, August 27, 2013 Hon. Julius Espat delivered an impassioned TV presentation to the Belizean people via Channel Five’s Dickie Bradley Special two weeks ago. The show was on fire from start to finish with Julius providing many of the vital sparks that will sure to ignite significant change as it relates to how we as a country provide oversight to our national finances.

It was revealed to the shock of many that since 1981 nothing substantial has been done with the important Public Accounts Committee (PAC) that is constitutionally bound to provide much needed oversight on public spending. Previous PAC chairmen included UDPs Erwin Contreras, Mark Espat and John Saldivar. Under their watch the status quo was maintained.

PUP leader Francis Fonseca has declared on all his many public appearances that political reform is a top priority under his leadership. He has harnessed the politi-

cal will from his colleagues and is using political capital to enact change now that the PUP is in opposition. The era of just promising things to the electorate in a manifesto is over. People want to see action now.

Julius’ presentation Monday was clear, coherent and straight talking. “I am a PUP, and when we reach government, and we will be the government, we want to be placed under oversight,” he told the host.

“We will die as a country if we don’t do it,” Julius declared.

He made the point that “we adopted systems that served a different environment” when we enacted the current PAC. He stressed and gave clear evidence that the current PAC is dysfunctional and that in this era of technological advancement our public transactions should be “put online”.

The other guest on the show was the Senator for the Business Community Mark Lizarraga who restated the Chamber of Continued on page 12

Valentine

I plan to spend some time with a good friend of mine for her birthday because it’s in the month.

I’m not too fond of the Carnival and other September celebrations due to the congestion.

Shanda

I plan to spend time with my family and friends, decided to do something different and might take a trip out of the city.

Ryan

Partake in the festivities, just kick back, relax and enjoy the month. Also welcome in the other upcoming holidays in October, November and December. Traveling, experiencing other cultures and doing concerts. Being patriotic too.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

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The Tip of the Iceberg

Reforming PAC and Calling for Re-Registration Continued from page 10 Commerce’s firm support for the Opposition’s push to reform the PAC. Lizarraga lashed out at the current UDP administration for betraying the people by doing nothing to fix the broken public finance system. Just last week the UNIONS got on board with an NTUCB release calling on the Barrow government to move on the PUP reform recommendations.

The most convincing argument made by Julius was when he reminded the people that Dean Barrow’s 2008 manifesto was anchored on the promise of “good governance and accountability.” Barrow’s five-year reign of nepotism, corruption and bad governance is plunging Belize back into the dark ages. Since Dean Barrow promised accountability his Ministry of Finance has spent almost $5 billion dollars from the budget with not one shred of oversight.

Perhaps the greatest symbol of this was when Dean Barrow publically attacked and cursed out the current

Auditor General for telling the truth in her report when she placed in writing that she could not put her signature on the 2010 – 2011 Auditor General’s Report because there were so many irregularities.

This sinister and gangster act by a sitting Prime Minister is contrary to our democratic foundations.

Dean Barrow’s intimidation tactics to reject all efforts at reform is being met head on by Francis Fonseca and the PUP. Not only will the PUP continue to vigorously push for changes to the PAC, but also will soon be calling for RE-REGISTRATION. After the show the PUP and BELIZE TIMES Facebook pages exploded with hundreds of comments from citizens who are joining the tide of political change and reform that is brewing in Belize. The PAC and RE-REGISTRATION are just the tip of the iceberg. The people see Barrow and his Titanic crew for what they are – cold, chancy and worthless!

PUP LEADER MEETS WITH CARIBBEAN SHORES COMMITTEE

PUP NOTICE

Belize Rural Central Constituency Committee The People’s United Party is accepting applications for members of the Belize Rural Central Constituency Committee.

Application forms are available at the Belize Rural Central PUP office or the PUP Secretariat, Independence Hall, #3 Queen Street, Belize City. Date of Election is October 6th, 2013 Application must be filled and returned to the Secretariat, addressed to the Secretary General by Monday September 30, 2013.

2013

“Norwegian” Exposes its Racist Policies and Cultural Insensitivity Continued from page 7 living, in the southern United States of America or in his own business culture of exploitation and greed.

In a press release the Garifuna Council said that it objected to NCL’s proposed exploitation of the Garifuna culture. The release condemned the use of the “Dugu”, as an attraction for tourists. It adds: “The Dugu is a sacred ceremony and is not performed as entertainment for any audience. We find the announcement insulting……and indicative of arrogance and ignorance on the part of those concerned.”

The Maya Leaders have expressed their concerns over NCL’s unbridled plans to exploit their culture and at their expense and with a pittance in return.

One Maya leader commented: “We want to preserve the cultures of both the Maya and Garifuna people. We will not be exploited. Our land is a part of our culture and the government has disrespected the Court’s ruling to our rights to communal land.”

Indigenous peoples are more and more standing up against exploitation.

Last year indigenous people from all over the World met in Norway at a United Na-

tions Conference. At the end of that conference, a declaration was issued calling for an end to discrimination and exploitation of indigenous peoples.

GOVERNMENT DISCRIMINATES AGAINST OUR INDIGENOUS PEOPLE A recent article in a Journal of International Law addresses government corruption and exploitation of indigenous peoples. The Government of Belize is guilty of discrimination against Belize’s indigenous peoples - the Maya and the Garifuna - as defined by the United Nations.

The approach by NCL in Belize that is being encouraged by a government that should be protecting its people is a crude modern-day invasion and exploitation of these people and their rights. This type of approach would not be tolerated anywhere else in the world and especially not now seven centuries after Columbus or after the last century of de-colonization.

Those concerned, from all appearances, must include the National Institute of Culture and History. They advise the Minister of Tourism and Culture.

There has not been a peep from them on the disrespectful performance of this NCL spokesman.

PUP NOTICE

Pickstock Standard Bearer Convention The People’s United Party Standard Bearer Convention for the Pickstock Electoral Division is scheduled for October 16, 2013 at the Independence Hall.

Applications can be picked up from the Secretariat or Mr. Ricardo Castillo, Chairman for Pickstock Committee.

Completed applications are to be submitted to Mr. Ricardo Castillo and the Secretary General. The non-refundable fee is to be submitted to the Secretariat along with the necessary documentation to complete the application package.

Deadline for submission is September 16, 2013.

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THE BELIZE TIMESTIMES THE BELIZE

2013

TOPMODEL 13

ENTERTAINMENT

NEWS

Belize City, Belize – Miss Amber Reneé Rivero is the new reigning Miss Earth Belize 2013. As Miss Earth Amber is the official Environmental Ambassador of Belize who will be representing her country at Miss Earth International Pageant to be held in Manila, Philippines, in November, 2013.

Belize International Pageants Limited crowned the 21 year old student of the University of Belize at ceremonies held on August 24th, 2013, At the Royal Orchid Hotel in Belize City. The previous queen, Miss Jessel Lauriano, gave her final farewell address, and passed on the torch to the newly crowned queen, Ms. Rivero who said she is proud to be able to showcase Belize’s natural wonders and make her country take its rightful place on the international scene.

In her acceptance speech Amber promised “to promote Belize positively in any and every opportunity”. At the very least, her hopes are “to change the way people in Belize think about the natural beauty in their own backyard” because she trusts that “If you change your mind, you can change your life”. Furthermore, in closing she reaffirmed the conviction of her goal as she said, “This not the symbol of beauty or superficial claims but instead a declaration of our shared hopes for the future for a change in Belize”.

At the coronation ceremony, Amber showcased the talent that she will be offering at the International Pageant.

She performed an exemplary rendition of Adele’s “Someone Like You” on the violin, accompanied by steel pans being played by Benoit Coye and Feliece Zelaya.

The Miss Earth Belize Committee would like to thank all their sponsors, including the major sponsors Oceana, Body 2000 Health and Fitness Centre, and Belagro Enterprises, for the unending support. This truly would not have been possible without you.

Location: Bacab Eco Park

Miss Amber Rivero is Miss Earth Belize 2013

Crystal • • • • • •

Height: 5’ 1” • Career Plan: Fashion Coordinator Sign: Virgo Favourite Food: Italian Food Likes: Modeling, Photography and Travelling Lives in Belize City, Belize District

TOP MODEL Clothing and Accessories provided by CATWALK FASHIONS

Fav. Quote: “Life is too short to wake up in the morning with regrets. So love the people who treat you right, forget about the ones who don’t and believe that everything happens for a reason. If you get a chance, take it. If it changes your life, let it. Nobody said that it would be easy, they just promised it would be worth it.”

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14 SPORTS

THE BELIZE THE BELIZE TIMES TIMES

Baby Jaguars return from CONCACAF football championships Belize City, August 26, 2013 The Football Federation of Belize rolled out a red-carpet welcome with a victory motorcade through Belize City for the under-15 national

football team on Monday afternoon, August 26.

The “Baby Jaguars”, as they have been called, had given the best showing ever by a Belizean men’s team in Central American

competition, winning 3 of their 4 games at the first ever CONCACAF under-15 football championships in Grand Cayman from August 20-25.

“Very good of-

fense and very good defense”, is how FFB head coach Renan Couoh Escobedo described the team’s performance at a press conference at the Radisson Fort George Hotel afterwards; they had scored 10 goals and given up only 3.

FFB president Ruperto Vicente and General Secretary Michael Blease promised that they intended to keep this young team together. Belizean football Assistant coach Alex Noralez said the young jaguars were very fast which they used to their advantage, working the ball up the sidelines to keep the ball in their opponents half of the field. Noralez said the Guatemalans (the only team that beat Belize) appeared to have been studying Belize’s tactics as the games were recorded on video; they used Belize’s same tactics against the team.

The Jaguars were received warmly by the Belize community

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2013

in the Caymans. The team, even though they didn’t advance, was invited by the organisers to stay longer to see the championship final at the Truman Bodden Sports Complex on Sunday, August 25.

Coach Noralez said he could not help feeling that Belize should have been in the final; and that they would have won over Honduras, who won the championship 2-0 over Guatemala.

Belize also played a friendly match against the hosts, Cayman Islands, which ended in a draw.

Belize will host the Central American under-15 championships against many of the same opponents in November.

Strikers torches Dantos 9-2 in men’s softball Belize City, August 22, 2013 The Oceana Strikers hammered the Dantos 9-2 last Wednesday Strikers’ pitcher Konrad Gonzalez struck out 6 batters and gave up 6 hits, as he led the Oceana crew to a 9-2 mercy rule win over the Dantos in 5 innings.

Jason Belisle gave up 5 hits while

the Dantos’ diamond made 7 errors, which allowed Charles Solis to come home in the 1st inning, and Floyd Flowers Jr., Marconi Leal, Solis, Calbert Jefferies and Brandon Bood followed in the 2nd inning.

Dantos’ Johnston Machado came home in the 3rd

inning, but Leal and Solis homered in the 3rd inning, followed by Luis Herrera in the 4th inning to give the Strikers a 9-1 lead.

Belisle homered in the top of the 5th, at which the game was called by mercy rule. The

Dantos left 6 runners on base.

The undefeated Guardian Bombers are leading the Belize City Softball Association men’s softball competition 4-0 after they hammered the Princess Dantos 15-5 at the Rogers Stadium in Belize City on Thursday, August 22.

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THE BELIZE TIMESTIMES THE BELIZE

SPORTS 15

Belize improves offensive at Central American U-20 female football championships

l Belize City, August 26, 2013 The national under-20 female football team, which represented Belize in the UNCAF U-20 football championships in Comayagua, Honduras, rendered the best performance ever by a national female team scoring 7 goals in 3 games.

Team Belize lost all 3 games, each by 1 goal, receiving 10 goals, but FFB President Ruperto Vicente praised Belize’s football girls

at a press conference at the Radisson Fort George Hotel Monday afternoon for better offensive.

Giselle Baeza of the Sugar City Girlz of Orange Walk had scored Belize’s first goal against the Honduran goalie Kelin Palma Murillo in the 58th minute in their 2-1 loss to the eventual champs.

Team Belize also lost 3-4 to the eventual sub-champs, Guatemala, on Friday,

Team Belize ranks 4th at Central American U-20 volleyball Santa Rosa de Copan, Honduras, August 20, 2013 Belize’s national under-18 female volleyball team ranked 4th with a 3 win-3 loss record at the Under-20 Central American championships held in Santa Rosa de Copan, Honduras, August 19-25.

The Belize girls posted their 3rd win in their 4th outing in 5 sets over Panama last Friday after winning their first 2 games over Honduras and El Salvador.

The Belize girls had to go to five sets to triumph over Panama on Friday evening. Led by Maurissa Williams with seven spikes, four aces and three blocks for a total of 14 points they took the first set 25-23.

Belize’s top scorer Sherika Burton added 13 points, including three blocks and two aces and Gianna Brown had seven as they won the second set 25-22.

Leyia Hernandez and Kandyce Burn entered the game, but the Panamanians went to extra points to win the next two sets: 26-24 and 25-23. Leandra Betson and Jahshema Saunders added six points each, while Xiomara Quan chipped in two points and set the ball for 24 successful attacks.

Libero Nayala Tun dug up 13 saves and had nine good receptions as they toughed it out to win the fifth set 19-17.

Belize’s youth females compete at the Central American Female Youth Volleyball Championship in Guatemala beginning on Saturday, August 31.

Other games: Belize vs. Guatemala – 1425, 19-25 18-25 Costa Rica vs. Belize – 2514, 25-12, 25-12

August 23. Aisha Solorzano scored first for Guatemala in the 5th minute, but Dangriga’s Shayama Caliz equalized in the 11th minute, much to the embarrassment of the Guatemalan keeper Yoseline Franco Marroquin. Caliz scored a second goal in the 27th minute to give Belize a 2-1 lead, but not for long; as Solorzano equalized 2-2 within a minute.

Guatemala led 3-2 at the half after Belize’s Erica Milligan blundered into committing that dreaded auto-goal in the 36th minute. Giselle Baeza delivered the equalizer in the 49th minute, but Guatemala’s Vivian Herrera scored the winning goal in the

54th minute.

Team Belize fell a 3rd time to Salvador who prevailed 4-3 on Sunday, August 25. Dangriga’s Naomi Gamboa scored Belize’s first goal past the Salvadoran keeper Ingrid Gutierrez Orantes in the 7th minute but El Salvador’s Joseline Rivas scored the equalizer in the 25th minute.

Caliz scored Belize’s 2nd goal in the 39th minute to give Belize a 2-1 lead at the half.

El Salvador’s Karisa Antonia equalized in the 61st minutes and Jennifer Gamez gave Salvador the go ahead goal in the 68th minute, leading 3-2 until Katrine Herrera added El Salvador’s 4th goal in the 72nd minute.

Belmopan Triple B’s Sabrina Eiley scored a third goal for the jewel but Salvador went on to post the 4-3 big W, giving them 3rd place with 4 points from a 2-2 draw with Honduras after they lost 2-0 to Guatemala.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Eulogy for Raimunda Aurora Medina Delivered by Hon. John Briceño Being asked to say some words today is a great honour.

Just last week my Tia Delia who lives in Canada was here on a visit.

She was staying in Orange Walk Town but a few days ago she made her trip to Corozal Town for you know what – to buy her 20 pounds of tortilla from Tortillería Chico.

She refused to go back to Canada without her tortillas from Tortillería Chico.

Raimunda Aurora Medina Nee Urbina was born in Orange Walk Town to the late Venacio and Epifania Urbina on 8th June 1933.

Her brothers Miguel, Narciso, Eusebio, Bartolo, Jose, Venancio Jr, Mauricio and two sisters Menarda and Carmelita have all gone ahead of her and I am sure they will be among the first to welcome her home.

Doña Munda leaves behind her sister Cruz and brothers Arturo, Ernesto and Alfredo.

Doña Munda didn’t have an easy life growing up. At a young age, she lost her mom and dad.

That’s when she went to live with her Tio Mike Urbina.

Mr. Nedi, her cousin told me that Doña Munda was hard working from a very young age. He said she was very obedient and he and the rest of his family embraced her like a sister.

Mr. Nedi still remembers all six children sharing a room and he cannot remember Doña Munda once complaining or fighting with any of them.

Doña Munda stated working at 15, when she moved to Belize City to work as a baby sitter for the family of Mr. Melin Gomez. She worked with the Gomez family for about 8 years and from then she never stopped working. Actually that’s how she met the love of her life, Elizardo Medina affectionately known as Don Chadi.

You see, her brother Don Chico used to drive a truck to deliver dry goods to Corozal Town. On one of those trips, she was with him when this dashing young man came up to Don Chico and said: “You have a beautiful sister.”

For those of you who knew Don Chico, he was a no- nonsense kinda guy. Of course Don Chico went straight over to his sister and asked: “Do you like him?” Doña Munda told Sani Baeza that she just smiled, but she did tell Sani that Don Chadi was: “Jovencito y hermoso. No lo pude resistir!”

That was all it took for Don Chico to give his blessing for them to get married, which they did on February 7th, 1959.

That was the beginning of Doña Munda’s new life, a life that touched the lives of so many peo-

ple.

Corozal town was now her home, a home she truly embraced. Right away she decided that she would work side-by-side with her husband and for many years they worked together in the sugar cane industry.

Later they decided to go into the broom making business.

Always looking for other opportunities, on the 24 May 1983, Doña Munda bought a small tortilla factory from the Cocom family and Tortillería Chicos was born.

From small humble beginnings, she and her husband worked that business every day. She was up from 4:30 a.m. preparing her masa and tortillas. She was so proud of her accomplishment, building a small business with 1 tortilla machine to today having a 5-tortilla machine operation.

She took great pride that she sold all her tortillas every day, not only in the Corozal district but also in Orange Walk, San Pedro, Blue Creek, Dangriga and yes, even to Canada.

Yet with all her success, Miss Munda was one of the most humble persons in this community. Her financial success didn’t change her, it never made her arrogant. She actually shared what she had and helped countless people in the North.

Margie Urbina, who has been by her side since 2007, describes Doña Munda as a person that puts God first, then family, community and politics in that order.

She loved her God and believed in her Church. Whenever she could she would attend mass. She was a faithful and devoted benefactor of the St. Francis Xavier Church. Actually it is said that she donated the Church bells that toll for her today, and this was one of many other gifts.

She especially loved children and her family was the little children of Corozal. If your child was sick and you needed help, you can ask Doña Munda for assistance. Short in paying schools fees? Need assistance to organize a sporting event for the youths? Go to Doña Munda. She was always willing to help. Jesus said: “Let the children come on to me for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” That was one responsibility that Doña Munda took seriously. She loved all the children of Corozal.

She was always working for her community. She was a member of

the Hospital Auxiliary along with Doña Olga. She helped her community in any way possible and we all loved her for it.

Just yesterday, Ms. Ayonie reminded me about Mothers’ Day. Doña Munda used to celebrate every Mother’s Day at Tortillería Chicos. From 5 am she would have the Mariachis playing and every mother who came to buy tortillas would get a small gift.

But her involvement in her community did not stop there. She was PUP ALL Di Way. Mr. Roberto Pasos, the chairman of the PUP Corozal Bay division, pointed out that she was a nationalist and a faithful and loyal member of the Peoples’ United Party. Every Corozal PUP politician would find themselves at her doorsteps. While she donated generously to the PUP, every politician also sought out her counsel. Papas Garcia, who is our man here in the Bay would not run if Doña Munda did not give her blessing.

She campaigned for the late Vilio Marin and Don Valdemar Castillo. She loved and advised former Corozal Bay Representative Vildo Marin Jr. She supported all PUP activities, especially the Corozal Bay Annual Children’s Christmas party.

Because of her fervent and loyal support to the PUP, her name is now listed in the PUP’s Hall of Fame and is proudly displayed at the Party’s Headquarters in Belize City.

Lately Doña Munda wasn’t doing too well. Margie, who was always by her side, said that Doña Munda had slowed down. Being the woman that she is, Doña Munda started to hand over the management of the business to her and she began to enjoy the little things in life- she faithfully watched Despierta Belice every day. She watched CTV 3 News and Channel 5 news every weeknight and when she had the energy she would watch a movie with Don Chadi and Margie.

After visiting doctors in Mexico, here in Corozal, and in Belize City, Doña Munda asked to be brought back home.

She was done with doctors. It was time to be back with her people. I believe she was ready to meet her God. Yesterday, at 8:30 A.M., on a beautiful Corozal morning, Doña Munda closed her eyes for the last time, her earthly journey was over. She is now among the angels who continue to watch over us.

Being who she was, Doña Munda made a special request. She said NO wake. She also commanded that we not be sad. She didn’t want a fuss, just for us to live a life of love for God and one another. She brought us all here today as a family to love God and to love one another. Even in parting she continues to do God’s work.

So let us give thanks and celebrate the life of this humble, generous, yet formidable woman- a proud Belizean who loved all of us and who loved Belize.

Dona Munda: “God has you in his keeping; we have you in our hearts.” “Dios la tiene en su custodia, nosotos la tendremos en nustros corazones”. Que en paz descanses Doña Munda. Vaya con Dios.

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PUP stalwart passes

We remember in life a wonderful man, Mr. Blas Rosales from Caledonia Village, Corozal District.

Don Blas, as he was affectionately called was born to Mr. Asuncion Rosales and Esfonia Lino in the village of Chunox on the 3rd of February 1942. To a family of 9 children who are Justa Garcia Rosales, Agustina Lopez Rosales (+), and Venancia Rosales. Hermanos Graciano Rosales, Cardenal Rosales, Grabiel Rosales, Perfecto Rosales, Satulino Rosales (+); a family of nine children.

Don Blas met the love of his life Dona Eluteria Rosales Balam (+) from Belize City and they lived a happy union blessed with 13 children and were together until her untimely death. His children are Daniel Rosales, Asuncion Rosales, Jr., Jesus Rosales, Cesario Rosales, and Blas Rosales Jr., Adela Estrada Rosales, Ofelia Rosales (+), Inocencia Villanta Rosales, Neli Garcia Rosales, Elvia Rosales, Celia Bertha Teck Rosales, Anita Rosales, and Agripina Rosales, Elicio Alcoser and Blasito Acoser and Neida Henry Alcoser, Soily Chi Alcoser.

Don Blas lived the life of a cane farmer and was one of the most successful farmers in the north. He was an expert in the field and gave advice to many about planting season, when to plant, what variety and on what moon to plant.

He was an active man and a patriot to Belize. From early he was a supporter of the People’s United Party and the area representative Honourable Florencio Marin Sr. From the early sixties, Hon Marin. and Don Blas formed a bond of friendship that never wavered between the two of them. He was always active in his support of the PUP because he wanted Independence for Belize and worked along with Mr. Price and Hon. Marin to help achieve these aims.

Don Blas was one of the first Continued on page 20

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THINK ABOUT IT Re-Registration Hon. Julius Espat, Deputy Leader of the People’s United Party and elected Representative agitated for a re-registration of voters, and if necessary even a reconfiguration of voters constituencies while on the Dickie Bradley Special on Channel 5 on August 19th.

This would be a major undertaking.

It has not been done since 1997.

There is a law that requires re-registration every ten years. One was to be conducted in 2007, but with general elections scheduled for 2008, the two major parties agreed for it to be postponed.

Re-registration is not due until 2017.

What is re-registration?

It is a comprehensive review of the voters’ list to ensure that only legitimate residents in each constituency are registered in that constituency. Persons who for various reasons no longer live in a constituency should register in their new constituency and be removed from the voters’ list in their former constituency.

Each year, by law, there is a process called voter transfers. It takes place in July and August. This is when voters are to be transferred from their previous address to their current ones. It is, in effect, an annual re-registration. It helps to keep the voters list accurate.

It does not work, not properly.

Dishonest politicians and dishonest voters use the transfer system to subvert the voting process. This is when voters who do not live in a constituency are put on the voters list for money.

The election Officials are ill equipped to prevent this dishonest practice. They don’t have the will or the resources to track down the numbers of dishonest transfers. The dishonesty is abetted by persons who tell the election Officials that the transferred voter indeed now live at the new address.

Sydney Fuller who did some political work in Queen’s Square and Albert division had compiled a list of bogus U.D.P. voters who get on the voters list but live elsewhere.

For Queens Square the list of bogus voters numbered in the hundreds.

The Queens Square Area Representative, Dean Barrow, who is the Prime Minister also, was heard defending fraudulent electoral activity prior to the 2012 elections. His party was caught registering people in homes they do not reside in.

Barrow said such a thing is normal. Maybe for his party.

Hon. Julius Espat will run into a brick wall when he tackles re-registration. The brick wall is the UDP. Hon. Espat will also quickly see the paralell between the composition of the Public Accounts Committee in the House of Representatives and the composition of the membership of the Elections and Boundaries Commission, which are stacked with majority from the ruling party.

The Commission chairpersons appointed by the Prime Minister are low grade party hacks. They take the job with the purpose of helping their party to win

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elections regardless of important principles and safeguards to our sacred democracy.

We note in passing that for the 2012 general elections the U.D.P. engaged in widespread stacking of the voters list by Central Americans, who weeks before the election were granted citizenship papers and immediately transferred onto the voters list. No final tally of how many such “new” voters were hoisted onto our citizenship rolls and voters’ list. Rival politicians say it numbered in the thousands.

The PUP is to be given maximum credit for raising the re-registration issue, and for raising the failed Public Accounts Committee. Hon. Espat is clearly a maverick and a rebel. He is bold enough to take risks in the service of seeking to improve a broken and non functioning system.

The lyrics of a once poplar song goes like this:- “To dream the impossible dream, to fight the unbeatable foe, to bear with unbearable sorrow, to go where the brave dare not go,….this is my quest…”.

Big respect Julius, thou who are named after the great Roman Ceaser.

DUGU IS NOT FU UNU The Norwegian Cruise Lines which will be bringing cruise tourists down to their own private island, presently called Harvest Caye, received a sharp rebuke.

Whoever brokered this big multi -million dollar deal and collected a fat commission, may have mislead Norwegian.

The Commission agent/lobbyist inside the U.D.P. Government with his ministerial connections, no doubt told Norwegian the people of Stann Creek and Toledo were poor and desperate for work.

What he did not say was that as poor as they are they still have their pride and dignity. They are not sell out minions like those in the Government.

After hearing a Norwegian spokesman speak of exploiting the Dugu ceremony for tourist entertainment, the proud Garinagu of Stann Creek let off.

No Mr. Norwegian and your Belmopan appeasers, you can entertain tourists three times a week if you so desire. It won’t be with the sacred Dugu ceremonies.

In creole - Dugu dah no fu unu.

Buy some costumes and have ministers dress like carnival clowns and perform their sell-out moves.

SCHOOL REOPENING Sixth Forms have started opening after the vacation.

High schools will reopen this coming week.

The following week is primary schools.

This is the most stressful period for parents, students and Principals. The principals need to collect to pay school expenses. The parents and students are doing all they can, pawn brokering, borrowing and for some, the indignity of begging, in order to meet the ever increasing costs of fees and other expenses.

Life in Belize was never this cruel to the poor.

STEVEDORES The English language, like most long established languages, gets certain words from Latin and other languages.

Stevedore, according to the dictionary, comes partly from the Spanish word estibador, to pack. Stevedore is a person who loads and unloads ships; a person who packs ship with cargo.

In Belize stevedores have been a peculiar band of brothers. Their particular brand of work has been going on long before party politics. Long before workers’ unions. It is as long ago as when ships started coming and going from the settlement of Belize.

In the 1960’s and the 1970’s there were a handful of families whose members from one generation to the next have worked on the ships. The Faber family and the Vaughan family literally provided dozens of members on the waterfront.

The Christian Workers Union also has a sterling history in the annals of waterfront work. Antonio Soberanis is the great union leader of Belize.

Nicholas Pollard Jr. has written a book on his father Nicholas Pollard Sr. who was one of the outstanding workers Unionist of his time. The book offers some insights into the Pollard/George Price/Phillip Goldson period of organizing and agitation for workers rights in Belize.

Having said all that, it is with sadness that we learnt from the recent news how the Christian Workers Union has fallen into disrepute. The Union has devolved down to a two-man organization. No records and no financial accountability for ten years. The strength of Union leader Antonio Gonzalez has been spent (no pun intended).

We are heartened that the stevedores have taken matters into their hands and joined by workers at Central Bank, have found a way to remove their leaders and revitalize their union.

The Public Service Union, the Police Association and members of other workers union may want to check themselves.

There is much work that needs to be done for the neglected, underpaid workers in this country.

Union leadership is serious work and responsibility.

STORY OF A LIBRARY Lita Hunter Krohn’s father, Alexander Hunter, was a Minister of Government in the 1960’s and 1970’s.

Sandy, as Mr. Hunter was known, retired from politics. It was his constituency in the Fort George that was passed on to the then young lion of Judah-Said Musa- in mid 1970’s.

In Orange Walk, the Cane Farmers who had been benefiting immensely through the cane industry, wished to show appreciation to George Price and Sandy Hunter. George Price, the most modest politician in the history of Belize discouraged any idea to publicly award him. The Cane Farmers Association called a general meeting and voted that TEN CENTS out of every ton of sugar delivered during the 1978 crop, would be taken out of their payments and given as a gift to Sandy Hunter.

The amount of money was EIGHTY THOUSAND DOLLARS.

Sandy Hunter told the Cane Farmers Association thanks, but no thanks.

They insisted. Sandy Hunter then requested if they would agree to donate the monies for a library to benefit the students and all the people of Orange Walk. The Association agreed.

George Price, Premier at the time, used his considerable influence and the Government and Baron Bliss fund provided additional monies.

On the 23rd February, 1982 there was a grand opening ceremony. Proud members of the Cane Farmers Association and their families, members of the Town Board who helped in the construction, and many citizens gathered to hear the new Prime Minister and father of Belize’s independence extol the virtues of reading and learning.

This is how the Library in Orange Walk came to be. Minister of Government, Alexander Hunter respectfully refused to accept a genuine gift of eighty thousand dollars from the cane farmers, and instead asked for the money to be used to build a library for all the people in Orange Walk.

That Library is named the Sandy Hunter Library and stands as a monument to the calibre of a man whose character should be a shining example to the current crop (crap) of politicians.

HURRICANE HISTORY The incomplete records of Belize informs us that on 2nd September, 1787, around 3:00 a.m. a hurricane struck the settlement of Belize. All the buildings were destroyed. So too were nearly all the public documents. Only one single house stood standing.

On the 1st August, 1813 and on the 19th August of the same year, the settlement was hit by hurricanes.

On the 31st August, 1864, a hurricane again came to Belize. On the 6th June, 1893, Belize City, Stann Creek and Toledo suffered damages from hurricane.

On 10th September, 1931, the country experienced its worst hurricane.

Many buildings were destroyed. Boats in Belize City harbour were washed onto the mainland and destroyed along with most houses and buildings. Deaths were recorded as 3,000.

On 8th November, 1942 another hurricane hit the country. No serious damage and no deaths were recorded.

On 28th September, 1955, hurricane Janet totally destroyed the town of Corozal. Twelve deaths were recorded and a massive rebuilding costing over three million dollars had to be undertaken.

On 31st October, 1961, hurricane Hattie arrived at midnight and brought havoc to Belize City, Stann Creek, Mullins River, Manatee and other areas. 263 Belizeans lost their lives. So devastated was Belize City that it was clear a new capital was necessary.

Belmopan became that new capital.

THE WISE AND THE FOOLISH “Wise men talk because they have something to say; Fools talk because they have to say something”

20 OUT Colonial Barrow

Continued from page 2

mass tourism investment against the advice of tourism and environmental experts, has already been awarded a contract to use his dredging company to do land reclamation work on Harvest Caye where the cruise line will build its massive cruise ship port. This same individual was also one of the promoters of a Tourism Village in Placencia. It failed because of hostile reaction to the proposal. Yet he has publicly denied any involvement.

Now that Harvest Caye has been sold to NCL, the government has a legal

PUP stalwart passes Continued from page 18 Chairmen of Caledonia Village where along with the villagers they started to build the Community Centre and dug a much needed well for the villagers to have access to clean water.

He actively lobbied the government to begin building the first access roads for the village of Caledonia so that the people could have access to Corozal and Orange Walk towns. In recent times, he kept working for his community; he lobbied the Corozal Free Zone to provide the chain link for the fence that now encompass the Caledonia Primary School and the Community Centre.

As a community oriented man he was nominated to become a Justice of the Peace on 29th of May, 1999. He served as Chairman of the Liquor Licence Board for the Corozal District from the year 2006 to 2008.

Don Blas also served on the Corozal South East PUP executive from the 1960s and was an active member until his untimely passing.

His efforts were instrumental in helping to keep Hon Florencio Sr. and Jr. elected, and both of them always sought his counsel on issues.

Don Blas, to all who knew him, was a gentle soul and a kind man. He never consumed alcohol or smoked.

All who came into his presence knew him to be generous, whenever he could lend a hand, assist, give an advice; Don Blas did so without hesitation.

On behalf of Florencio Marin Sr., Hon. Florencio Jr. and the People’s United Party we offer our deepest condolences to his family. He will be missed; like him there will be no other.

THE BELIZE TIMES obligation to disclose this transaction and to declare what price it received for this piece of our national patrimony.

In anticipation of the Prime Minister’s spin: No! No! Mr. Prime Minister, this is not the type of land deal that occurs every day. Stop bullshitting us.

We have had too much of your verbal flatulence and that of Norwegian Cruise Line.

Signed.

Abdul Smith

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2013

In Loving Memory Theodore Joseph Palacio

OUT From Speaker to Speaker!

Continued from page 2 repeated.

For our democracy to remain vibrant, all Members of the National Assembly must be able to expect that there will be civility, respect and due regard for their human dignity. We, therefore, trust that you will take these, our serious concerns, into account.

Respectfully, Hon. Sylvia Flores Former Speaker, House of Representatives Hon. Mary Elizabeth Zabaneh Former Speaker, House of Representatives Cc: His Excellency Sir Colville Young, Governor General of Belize Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister Hon. Francis Fonseca, Leader of the Opposition

April 4, 1930-September 3, 2012 God saw you getting tired. When a cure was not to be, He closed his arms around you and whispered, “Come to Me”.

In tears we saw you sinking. We watched you fade away. Our hearts were almost broken, you fought so hard to stay.

But when we saw you sleeping so peacefully free from pain, We could not wish you back to suffer so again.

So keep your arms around him Lord, and give him special care.

Make up for all he suffered and all that seemed unfair.

You are forever etched in our hearts. Nothing will take that away from us. We are blessed to have you in our life. The family takes this opportunity to thank all who shared in our sorrow. Sleep on dear loving husband, dad, grandpa, brother, uncle, educator and choir director, Mr. Theodore Joseph Palacio RIP (September 3, 2012) Sadly missed by wife, Bridget Palacio, children, Jermaine Francis, Felix, Timothy, Francis, Angela, Allen, Steve and Sean Palacio, daughter-in-laws Gaynor Ferguson Palacio, Frances Palacio, Glendarice Palacio, Sharon and Jessie Palacio, son-in-law, Keith Francis, all your grandchildren, brother, sister, nieces and nephews.

You are cordially invited to attend a celebration of life First Anniversary Mass at St Martin de Porres Church on Tuesday, September 3, 2013 at 6 PM.

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2013

THE BELIZE TIMES

Reid Driving in the drink

By G. Michael Reid The recent rains have exposed just how ridiculous it is to fix streets and not factor in drainage. No one can deny that the streets that have been cemented are pleasant to drive on but without proper drainage, there is much inconvenience when it rains and you can be sure that the expected lifespan will be cut considerably shorter. Nothing accelerates corrosion quicker than water and even the better mixes of cement will be no match for the constant exposure to that element.

According to the Mayor, he has identified a hundred streets that he hopes to complete by the end of this year. Any plans for thereafter are uncertain. The problem is that while much attention is being given to those one hundred streets, (actually it almost seems that all at the same time), there are hundreds more that are being neglected. Those who must drive those other streets live in fear that by the time the hundred new ones are completed they will have no vehicle in which to drive upon them.

We are continuously informed that there is a divine “master plan” which is supposed to transform our city into a sparkling, modern metropolis. One has to wonder why there was no provision in that plan for drainage.

And how exactly were these hundred streets selected? There are a few streets that I can think of that certainly should have been given priority. The first that comes to mind is Ebony Street. Ebony is a street north of Vernon Street that runs from Central American Blvd

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nic group all converge on one area to purchase their fresh meats and vegetables and to rub shoulders with fellow human beings from other walks of life. This is why it is so important that proper planning should have been put into the construction of this market.

The Michael Finnegan Market stands as a monument to failed and poor planning; an absolute waste of money! Built at a cost all the way to Youth for the Future of a whopping 1.3 million dollars, Drive; which of course, connects to it is supposed to house seventy the Bel-China Bridge. The paving of vendors but tries to fit more like this street would have to include a seven hundred. This results in a small bridge but would solve a myrmassive spillover with more veniad of problems. dors on the outside than there is In particular since many major on the inside. Maybe it is time roads are blocked simultaneousto consider covering the canal ly with repairs, this street would and putting the vendors up there, present an alternative route across clearing the street for the traffic the Southside. Many vehicles try for which it was built. On any Tuesto avoid the two traffic lights on day, Friday and Saturday morning, the boulevard (which for the most it is impossible to drive on either part are very poorly calibrated) side of the canal and now even by turning down behind the Civon Dean Street up to Euphraic and driving to the canal side in tes. This seems to have been all thrown together with absolutely no planning and it presents a precarious We are continuously informed that there is situation for anyone trying to drive in that area during a divine “master plan” which is supposed those days. Some might to transform our city into a sparkling, consider it a necessary inconvenience but with a modern metropolis. One has to won- little planning, it could all have worked out so much der why there was no provision in better. I guess you can that plan for drainage. say that the Michael Finnegan Market, like Mayor Bradley’s streets, is a perfect for if only for that one short mornthe Back-a-Town area. They then example of how just about everying, all of us are one. The locals, drive up to Vernon Street but must thing is done in this helter skelter the foreigner, the rich, the famous, go up-stop in crossing the bridge town. Welcome to our Belize. the elite and just about every ethinto Lakeview Street.

With a bridge across the canal on Ebony, vehicles could either traverse all the way down to the Bel-China for a quicker access to the Northside or cross the bridge before turning right into Lakeview.

Many accidents happen at the bridge on Vernon Street where vehicles try to beat on-coming traffic to get across in order to turn into Lakeview and drive on down onto Cemetery Road. One has to wonder if there is nothing in the master plan about this.

The second street that should have been given high priority is Hicatee Street. Hicatee runs behind the Roger’s Stadium and into West Collet Canal where the market is.

Hicatee is the street that most people from far Southside use to walk to the market.

When it rains, that street is a holy mess. When it is dry, it is full of deep potholes and drains that are never clear.

It is basically the only place available to park within reasonable walking distance of the market on a Saturday morning. Even though when the market was being planned, it was promised that no longer would venders be allowed to park on the street, this part of the plan has been totally abandoned.

Not only are the wholesalers on the street during market days but they can be found retailing their produce in the City Council compound any day of the week. This is very unfair, in particular to retail vendors who are unfortunate to have stalls in the rear of the ridiculously planned market.

A visit to public market in particular on a Saturday morning can be a pleasurable experience. One can stumble on any number of friends and catch up on the latest gossip. It is basically an equalizer,

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Respect Me: Do Not Undermine My Voice

By Dr. Angela Banner Joseph “A woman with a voice is by definition a strong woman. But the search to find that voice can be remarkably difficult. It’s complicated by the fact that in most nations, women receive substantially less education than men.” - Melinda Gates How do we encourage men to respect women in leadership positions and not engage in workplace bullying? How do we have our voices heard without undermining our intelligence? How do women acknowledge their own power without being taken advantage of, ignored, or verbally abused? How do we empower ourselves to gain access to the same rights and opportunities as men have?

Women should not be intimidated by workplace bullies and should take a stand against any offensive behavior so the offender is put on notice, is aware that the behavior is unacceptable, and knows that it will not be tolerated. It is embarrassing when we have bullies in the workplace who do not know how to share their thoughts diplomatically and who use negative words to make a point.

Such language and behaviors usually produce more problems because such comments show that they lack tact.

Societal activities have shown us that sex discrimination is a genuine part of a woman’s employment experience, but, Ladies, no longer are we to allow this abuse. We are not to accept any bad behavior, embarrassment in front of our peers, belittling of our intelligence, ridicule, or verbal abuse. We need to adopt a zero-tolerance policy. We have a right to speak without censorship and to be heard. Our words should never remain silent.

Hilary Clinton contended, “Women must enjoy the rights to participate fully in the social political lives of their coun-

tries if we want freedom and democracy to thrive and endure.” She further asserted, “Let me be clear. Freedom means the right of people to assemble, organize, and debate openly. It means respecting the views of those who may disagree with the views of those who may disagree with the views of their government.” We must listen to Hillary’s words, take a strong stand, and make sure that our voices reverberate.

We must remember that words are powerful. There are times when saying choice words to another person may make us feel very liberated. However, it is during these compelling moments that we find ourselves spewing hateful words without thinking of the actions or consequences towards another. These ugly words can be seen as violence of language and are not acceptable.

In the news, we have seen a stigma when women stand up and make noise by speaking the truth against inappropriate tongue-lashing and oppression of women. People may become uncomfortable with our actions, but as women, we must collectively support all of our sisters. If one woman is disrespected, then we all are disrespected. We must strongly condemn the mockery of all women in the workplace and show that we are to be valued.

We have a political and judicial right to stand equally next to a man, and our opinions matter. We are entitled to our opinions, because they are free. When anyone shows disrespect and throws hate speech, they have crossed the line.

These actions are deplorable, are wrong, and should be condemned.

Women in Belize are liberated to speak independently, and their views must and will be heard. Author Lois Frankel contended, “If gender is a legitimate impediment to success in your current workplace, you have only three options: Put up with it (which I don’t recommend), pursue the formal internal channels for addressing it (which may or may not yield the desired results), or leave (which is the only option over which you truly have control).” However, I recommend that you continue to make your voices be heard, because in sisterhood, we are a force to be reckoned with.

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

PUP NOTICE

2013

For Sale

By Order of the Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., a company duly registered under the Companies Act, Chapter 250 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition, 2000, and having its registered office at Cor. Albert and Bishop Streets, Belize City, Belize, hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Mortgagee under a Deed of Mortgage made the 18th day of November, 2008, between LYNDON BAILEY of the one part, and Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., of the other part, and recorded at the Land Titles Unit in the Deeds Book Vol. 40 of 2008 at Folios 215–244, the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd. will at the expiration of two months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the property described in the schedule hereto.

All offers to purchase the said property must be made in writing and full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained from the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd.

SCHEDULE ALL THAT piece or parcel of land being 5.43 acres situate West of the Northern Highway, near Mile 10.5, Belize District, Belize, bounded and described as shown by Plan No. 580 of 2008 attached to Minister’s Fiat (Grant) No. 580 of 2008 dated 18th August, 2008 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon.

Dangriga Constituency Committee The People’s United Party is accepting applications for members of the Dangriga Constituency Committee. The Election of the Committee will be held on October 20, 2013.

Application forms are available through Dangriga PUP Committee Chairman Mr. Melvin Bernard or the PUP Secretariat located at Independence Hall, #3 Queen Street, Belize City.

The application must be filled and returned to the Secretariat, addressed to the Secretary General by Friday October 10, 2013.

DATED this 16th day of August, 2013.

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

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THE BELIZE TIMES

2013

Home Economics

Belize-US trade discrepancy?

By Richard Harrison The USA reports that its exports to Belize in 2012 was US$265.6m (BZ$531.2m) and its imports from Belize during that period was US$161.8m (BZ$323.6m).

Belize reports importing BZ$514.8m from the USA, and exporting BZ$307.1m to the USA. There is thus a discrepancy of BZ$16.4m in the amount of imports to Belize, and BZ$16.5m in the amount of exports from Belize, to the USA. This trade is “sophisticated”, with much of the trade being invoiced by “middle-men” brokers or freight-forwarders in Miami or Houston, and not directly by the manufacturing companies.

These so-called freight-forwarders get paid to do one principal thing: to prepare an invoice that puts the price of everything at a small percentage of the real price....so as to avoid paying the right import duties at the port of entry.

This way, both the declared exports of the USA and the declared imports of Belize are “fooled”....as this same “false invoice” is used to make declarations of export from the US and imports to Belize.

Being posted at the Port of Belize, where most US exports to Belize arrive, is thus not as lucrative for local customs officers as being posted at the Mexican and Guatemalan borders. The freight-forwarders in Miami and Houston steal their cake before it is served.

The way to close these gaps is already known and practiced. With vehicles, the customs charges import duties not on the declared invoice value, but rather on the “blue book” value.

In the same way, customs can charge duties on items based on the ORIGINAL INVOICE value from the manufacturer of the item. Each company exporting their products to Belize should be REGISTERED with Belize Customs for their goods to be allowed into Belize....and they must submit official company prices lists to the Belize Customs on a regular basis.

Imagine GATORADE being invoiced in the US to super-markets at US$20/case of 24... and being invoice to Belize Customs at US$5/case of 24. It just does not add

up right? But this is what is happening in Belice...

The way to export their products to Belize, recommended here, including Gatorade, PEPSICO would have to register its original price list with the Belize Customs, and the declared factory price of GATORADE from this manufacturer is what would be used to assess customs duties at the port of entry in Belize not the declared “artificial” price set by middle-men brokers and freight-forwarders.

The results of this decision will be the following: 1. Government of Belize will collect a lot more revenues according to its Customs Duties.

2. The prices of imported goods will not appear so “cheap” to local consumers.

3. Domestic industries will be able to price more competitively while making a profit 4. Belizean labor will be much fully employed and earning an honest living 5. Belize imports will fall, and exports will rise, improving our balance of trade, reducing our debt burden, while increasing the wealth of every Belizean provided the wings of corruption locally is nipped in the bud.

6. Importers in Belize will see a large increase in their business in the long run, as a wealthier country can buy more and better products from abroad. Scrambling for a few pennies from a bunch of poor people really is a short-sighted view by importers..... it is not in their best interest to continue to watch the decline of the Belize economy, by sustaining a massive deficit from importing twice the amount we export... it just is not sustainable.

The interest of importers and domestic producers and manufacturers should not be diametrically opposed....it should be the same... the improvement of Belize and Belizeans, where ALL rise as our ship floats higher.

Richard Harrison is a local businessman and investor in the manufacturing and service industries. Mr. Harrison holds a Masters in Business Administration degree from Lancaster University, United Kingdom.

Send comments to harrisonbz@yahoo.com

NOTICE TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC THIS IS TO ADVISE YOU THAT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE BELIZE TELECOMMUNICATIONS ACT OF 2002, SI 110 OF 2002 THAT SPEEDNET COMMUNICATIONS LIMITED OF 2 ½ MILES NORTHERN HIGHWAY, BELIZE CITY HAS APPLIED TO THE PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION FOR THE FREQUENCY SPECTRUM AUTHORIZATION TO OPERATE &/OR PROVIDE MICROWAVE RADIO BACKHAUL SERVICES THROUGHOUT THE COUNTRY OF BELIZE. LOCATION

FREQUENCY (MHZ):

LOCATION

FREQUENCY

LOCATION

FREQUENCY

Site A Coordinates

Transmit Frequency A

Site B Coordinates

Transmit Frequency B

NORTH

WEST

( MHz )

NORTH

WEST

( MHz )

18° 23’55.83”

88° 23’36.66”

7470

18 0 21’9.30”

88 0 8’12.32”

7631

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Recipe of the week In the true spirit of a “Belizean September” we will be celebrating a few classic dishes here at our recipe corner. For the “sweet tooth” readers we kick off on a sweet note…

Cassava Pudding Ingredients 3 medium cassavas 2 tsps. butter 2 tsps. baking powder 1 cup brown sugar 1 cup coconut milk ½ tsp. mixed spice 2 tsps. vanilla essence Water Ginger (may be added suited to taste)

Directions • Peel, wash and grate cassavas.

• Add coconut milk and butter.

• Stir in baking powder, sugar, vanilla essence and spice.

• Add water little by little, to bind the texture, keeping mixture stiff. The mixture should be about 2 inches thick.

• Grease baking tin well and pour in mixture (the mixture should not exceed 2 inches in height).

• Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit until golden brown (the temperature may be lowered to 350 degrees Fahrenheit as the pudding begins to darken).

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2013

1 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

2013

25

September is here again! This month in MKC we will learn a few fun facts about our beautiful jewel Belize. Some of them you may already know but put on your “I know my country” hats and have fun with us!

FACTS ME BELIZE! Can you use the clues below to help solve the crossword puzzle?

Across 1. We have the world’s second largest __________ reef.

2. Jaguars were called __________ by the Maya. We have the only jaguar preserve in the world!

3. What is our capital city?

Down

1. Under the British, Belize was called British______.

2. It is the Longest River in Belize

Did you know our country has 35 major and minor river catchments or watersheds that drain into the Caribbean Sea? Yes, we do! Can you find and circle some of them in the word search below?

COLOUR ME! Did you know our beautiful Belize has the only Jaguar preserve in the world?

The Maya called them B’alam!

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1 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES BELIZE TIMES WEEKLY

2013

SCIENCE & TECH BRAIN R

E

V

I

E

W

Selected By Chris Williams

TEASER

SUDOKU PUZZLE #32/2013

New Clues to Causes of Autism Found

By Amy Norton THURSDAY, Aug. 29 (HealthDay News) -- A group of enzymes in the brain appears to be key to the activity of many genes linked to autism, a new study reveals.

Experts hope the findings will shed light on the causes of autism, and possibly lead to new treatments.

The study results, published online Aug. 28 in the journal Nature, hint that if disruptions in enzymes called topoisomerases occur during brain development, they might contribute to the development of autism spectrum disorders.

The enzymes are found throughout the body, and their main job is to “untangle the knots” in cells’ DNA so the cells can function and reproduce themselves normally, explained senior researcher Mark Zylka, an associate professor of cell biology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Topoisomerases have been well studied for their role in helping tumor cells to spread, and drugs that inhibit the enzymes are already used to treat certain cancers.

There have also been hints, though, that topoisomerases might contribute to autism.

Last year, researchers reported that some people with autism spectrum disorders have mutations in these enzymes.

“But we’ve known little about how they work in the brain,” said Zylka.

In lab experiments with mouse and human brain cells, Zylka’s team found that a topoisomerase-inhibiting drug reduced the activity of 49 genes that past studies have linked to autism.

That points to the importance of topoisomerases in the normal expression of those genes.

“A single drug down-regulated all of those genes,” Zylka said.

That does not mean, however, that topoisomerase inhibitors should be tested for treating autism. If anything, Zylka explained, you would want a drug that enhances the enzymes’ actions.

But now researchers can look for compounds that do just that.

What’s more, the findings point to a biological process that ties together dozens of different genes that are suspected of being involved in autism. “Well over 300 (autism-linked) genes have been identified now,” Zylka said. “That list looks daunting, but the goal is to figure out how all these genes are connected,” he said.

“It can be overwhelming when you look at the list of genes,” agreed Andy Shih, senior vice president for scientific affairs for the advocacy

Answers for last week’s puzzle SUDOKU PUZZLE SOLUTION #31/2013

group Autism Speaks.

But if you can zero in on the “biological pathways” linking those genes, “it all starts to make sense,” said Shih, who was not involved in the study.

In the United States, it’s estimated that at least one in every 88 children has an autism spectrum disorder, with the severity ranging widely from child to child. Some kids have little or no ability to speak, and focus obsessively on just a few interests; other kids speak and have normal to above-normal intelligence, but may have problems socializing and communicating more subtly -- for example, trouble using and “reading” gestures, body language and facial expressions.

No one knows what causes autism spectrum disorders, but experts believe that it’s a complex mix of genetic vulnerability and environmental exposures -- possibly chemicals or microbes.

Shih pointed to an “interesting” fact about topoisomerases: Their activity is believed to be influenced by environment, including compounds in food and in the physical world. So, he said, studying the enzymes might help researchers pinpoint some of the environmental factors that contribute to autism spectrum disorders.

“We’ve been talking for a long time about the interaction between genes and environment in autism,” Shih said. Topoisomerases could offer a way for scientists to begin to connect the dots.

Zylka agreed, and said his team is searching for environmental compounds that inhibit topoisomerases -- and may, therefore, be important for pregnant women or young children to avoid.

There is still, however, a long way to go in fully understanding the underpinnings of autism spectrum disorders. “We’ve just scratched the surface of what’s going wrong in the brain” in autism, Zylka said.

See answers NEXT WEEK

Answers for last week’s puzzle

See answers NEXT WEEK

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2013

27

THE BELIZE TIMES

As BIG as you think you are...

Building on Kut Avenue

Building in Belama Ph. 1

Building on Western Avenue

Building on Euphrates Avenue

Building on Fabers Road

Building on Fabers Road Boots Martinez

Building on C.A. Boulevard

you’re living in a small world

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THE BELIZE TIMES

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2013

Slipped Disc

Are Christians Better? ow many times do humans look at someone else in a situation and pass judgment to find, sooner or later, that they suffer from the same behavior in that area?

Have you ever noticed a driver who wants to stop in the middle of the street? When they are committing that infraction they have all the patience in the world, but if you should be the one in their way, they blow their horns off the mounting bracket!

In the manual (Matthew 7:1-5), it tells us that sometimes we are so busy judging others that we don’t even notice that there’s a log in our own eye!

Life is made up of principles in the same way that a cake is made up of different ingredients including being baked at a certain temperature over a period of time! These principles do not change because of the family you come from, because of how much money you have, nor based on how good or bad you are.

You can be the richest person in the world and if you break any principle needed to make a good cake it will not come out the way it is supposed to!

I would like to turn the spotlight now on Christians. Some where along the road Christians began to believe that because they carry that name, it automatically exempts them from the need to live by principles and that quick fixes are a privilege that they automatically receive.

We are all children of God and He died to save all of us. Whosoever will can receive the free gift of salvation according to the famous John 3:16.

What should make a Christian different from someone that chooses not to be; should be two things and not one. First and most important is yes, to seek first the Kingdom of God. To do this there is only one key and that is through the portal called Jesus (John 10:9). But this scripture (Matthew 6:33) states that it doesn’t stop at seeking first the kingdom, but it continues on to say and ‘its righteousness’. Here is where the principles come in. Whether or not you believe in God if you follow His principles you cannot ever ever fail. In fact let me say this another way…. Even if you claim to be a Christian and do not work according to the principles of God, I guarantee you will fail.

There is only one thing to do with principles and that is to follow them. This is the only way you can be successful. There are many “non” Christians who follow closely the principles of the Kingdom of God unaware and live in success in many areas of their lives! They accomplish the purpose that God brought them into this world to accomplish, their marriages last forever, they are never broke, they always get promoted in their jobs and the list goes on. A Christian on the other hand wants to come to work late and yet get a promotion because they claim to be working for God! It doesn’t work that way.

After seeking the kingdom of God you must also seek its righteousness or principles that it requires to be successful.

I will close on this note. If you live by the principles of the Kingdom of God you will be successful anywhere you go and in any thing you do, but you also need to remember that this does not give you a free ticket to enter this kingdom. That free ticket is received by using the right portal.

Being a Christian alone does not make you better but it is rather living by the principles out lined in the manual that allows this.

Hopefully next week I can show you some of the principles that successful people follow that are direct out the constitution of God! Until next week God Bless!

1 SEP

By Dr. Francis Smith

Slipped disc refers to medical problem with the fibrocartilaginous cushion between the back bones in the spine. An intervertebral disc consists of a tough outer ring called the annulus fibrosus and a softer inside, the nucleus pulposus, similar to the contents of a crab’s claw when broken open. When there is wear and tear of the outer ring or when it tears, the soft nucleus on the inside bulges or protrudes out through the outer ring. This is called a herniated disc or slipped disk.

Symptoms: A herniated disc can occur without causing symptoms. It can be discovered incidentally on a CAT scan or MRI done on someone who has no back pain. Some disc protrusions or herniated disc can irritate the nerve roots causing pain, numbness and weakness. If the herniated disc occurs in the neck, it will cause symptoms in the arms. If the diseased disc is in the lower back it will cause symptoms in the leg.

Common signs and symptoms of herniated discs are: - Pain in the leg if the herniated disc is in the lumbar spine or lower back. There can be localized low back pain or pain radiating to the buttocks, thigh, leg, foot or toes. The pain may be described as shooting, stabbing or shocking pain provoked by sneezing, coughing or forceful or prolonged forward bending.

- Arm pain if the herniated disc is in the cervical spine (neck). The pain may be localized in the neck or radiating to an area above the shoulder blade, shoulder, arm, forearm and hand. This pain can also be described as shooting or like an electric shock.

- Numbness and tingling.

- Weakness. Muscles innervated by the nerves compressed by a herniated disc may become weak causing difficulty walking or standing and grip weakness resulting in objects falling from the hands.

- Low back pain may include disabling pain causing a crooked appearance (inability to straighten the back), painful restriction of side-ways, or forward bending.

Risk Factors: Herniated discs are more common in middle age, overweight people and persons with physically demanding jobs which involve repetitive or heavy lifting, pulling, and bending sideways or frontways.

Treatment: Usually localized mild neck or low back pains lasting no more than 72 hours may be treated at home with the usual painkillers and anti-inflammatories. If the pain is accompanied by pain shooting down the arms or legs, with weakness, numbness or tingling, bowel or urinary bladder problems, or constantly intense despite NSAID’s even while lying down, then one should consult a doctor.

Often doctors don’t really know what causes low back pain. But it is more likely to become long-lasting (chronic) if you are under stress or depressed.

Physical therapy and exercise are essential aspects of treatment.

The therapist will teach specific exercises to help improve flexibility, to strengthen the core muscles of the back and or abdomen, gluteal, iliopsoas and quadriceps muscles, and to improve posture while sitting, standing, lying down or lifting objects. A healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, ideal body mass index and regular exercise is key.

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THE BELIZE TIMESTIMES THE BELIZE

2013 2013

REGIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

NEWS

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SAUDI ARABIA:

BANS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Wednesday, August 28, 2013 Saudi Arabia’s cabinet has approved a ban on domestic and other abuse for the first time.

The new law sets penalties for all forms of physical and sexual abuse, both at home and in the workplace.

These include penalties of up to a year in prison and fines of up to $13,000. The

law will also provide shelter for victims of domestic abuse.

Rights activists have welcomed the move but also questioned the effectiveness of the implementation of the

law.

In legal terms, violence against women and children in the home has been a private matter in Saudi Arabia until now… – BBC

OBAMA:

AMERICA SAVED FROM OPPRESSION

BARBADOS: GOVT. SNOOPING ON CITIZENS? Wednesday, August 28, 2013 Barbados is the only Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country to have made a request of the social website, Facebook, for information regarding how its nationals

OIL: PRICES ON THE RISE

use the facility.

Facebook has for the first time published data on how often governments around the world request data on its users, and according to the social media group, Barbados made three quests in the last six months.

Facebook does not specify the nature or type request but said it set “a very high legal bar with each individual request in order to receive any information about any of our users”.

There has been no official comment from Bridgetown… - The Jamaica Observer

Thursday, August 29, 2013 President Barack Obama hailed Martin Luther King Jr yesterday for saving America from oppression but said “constant vigilance” was needed to keep the civil rights icon’s dream of equality alive.

Fifty years after the “I have a dream speech,” America’s first black president stood on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, where King made an appearance in 1963 which changed American history.

“He offered a salvation path for oppressed and oppressors alike. His words belong to the ages, possessing a power and prophecy unmatched in our time,” Obama said.

Obama also remembered the thousands of African Americans who joined King’s March on Washington to demand their rights and to wake their country’s “long slumbering conscience.”

The president, who has faced some criticism for not doing more to help the African American community, which remains plagued by poverty and barriers to advancement, dismissed arguments that little had changed for blacks since King spoke…- The Jamaica Observer

COLOMBIA:

NATIONWIDE PROTESTS

Wednesday, August 28, 2013 The price of oil climbed above US$109 a barrel, its highest in more than two years, as the US appeared to edge closer to intervening in Syria’s civil

war.

US defense secretary Chuck Hagel said yesterday that American forces were ready to act on any order by President Barack Obama to strike Syria in response to the alleged use of chemical weapons in the conflict…

While Syria is not a major oil supplier, traders are concerned that the conflict may draw in Iran, a key ally of Syria and a big oil producer. The Middle East nation also shares a border with Iraq, another larger oil producer in the region.

US benchmark crude for October delivery was up US$3.04 to US$108.95 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange as of 1:16 pm (1716 GMT).

The price rose as high as US$109.32, matching its high for the year. That’s the highest price since May 2011. Oil still remains a long way off its record high of US$145.29 a barrel, set in July 2008… - The Jamaica Observer

Thursday, August 29, 2013 C o l o m b i a ’s largest cities were braced on Thursday for marches by students and labour unions in support of a growing nationwide strike by miners, truckers, coffee growers, milk producers and potato farmers protesting against everything

from high fuel prices to free trade agreements that farmers say have them on the brink of bankruptcy.

The protests began on 19 August, with demonstrators joining striking miners,to block some of the country’s main highways using tree branches, rocks and burning tyres.

At least one protester and one

policeman have died in the demonstrations, dozens have been injured and more than 150 have been arrested…

Farmers complain that agricultural imports allowed under free trade agreements with the US, the EU, Canada and other nations are undercutting their livelihoods… – BBC

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THE BELIZE TIMES

1 SEP

2013

EDITORIAL Español

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BUENAS NOTICIAS

ste es un momento robusto para el Partido Unido del Pueblo. La trayectoria segura y estable bajo el liderazgo de Francis Fonseca ha inspirado una confianza pública y motivado una energía interna del Partido que por mucho tiempo fue reprimido. Excmo. Francis representa el símbolo de la actualidad referente a la política progresista y madura.

Como fuerza política duradera el PUP no tiene rival.

El Padre de la Nación, George Price, garantizo esto con su legado.

La base sobrecargada de talento del PUP ha sido por un lado la restricción así como el combustible para su dominio.

Nuestro liderazgo siente estar listo para la batalla, resuelto, centrado y conjugado por un singular sentido de propósito.

Esto será extremadamente importante dentro los próximos tres años, cuando pillería política, manipulación directa y la desesperación nunca antes visto estarán en alta intensidad por parte del UDP. Nuestra estimación en el BELIZE TIMES es que las imágenes, torcidas y actos abiertos de interferencias políticas criminales expuestas en 2008 y 2012 por el UDP se palidecerán en comparación con las próximas elecciones generales.

Nosotros deseamos y ojalá fuera de otra manera, pero la tendencia a la violencia, la arrogancia y la ignorancia, que clásicamente describe el UDP, estará en plena floración en los próximos años.

Cuidado... porque renunciar a la cubierta voluble de cinco años en el poder político, hará que, muchos candidatos UDP vendan sus madres.

Pero Belice está en un buen lugar. Hay un hecho innegable en la historia socio-política de Belice: cuando el PUP está robusto, Belice es robusto.

La mayoría de los analistas políticos coinciden en que la avalancha de nuevos talentos, “repatriados” y “ofrecidos” dispuestos a tomar el escudo y la espada PUP, es por lo menos, reconfortante.

Ha sido una larga jornada por el desierto de la oposición para el PUP y este ha sido el más largo de la historia que el Partido ha estado fuera del Gobierno. Pero este recorrido ha fortalecido y hecho el partido más fuerte, más ágil y radicalmente más reflexiva de su papel en el desarrollo nacional.

Recientemente, el indicador más poderoso de nuestro rejuvenecimiento, para nosotros en el BELIZE TIMES, es el sentido que la lealtad ha vuelto a los ideales del PUP. La fuerza del PUP es axiomática cuando estamos unidos.

El actual nivel actual de lealtad para uno al otro no ha existido desde antes de 2005.

El partido como institución ha sido impactada por traidores y detractores. Las masas cuestionaban la manera como miembros PUP’s de larga afiliación actuaban Independientes o se distanciaban como Pedro al ser interrogado de su asociación con Jesús Nazareno.

Recordamos la política de la gran carpa. El PUP es un Partido de la inclusión. Esta es una extensión del credo de la justicia social y la redención del PUP. Sin embargo, un efecto negativo secundario de la política de la gran carpa era que permitió a los cobardes y oportunistas moverse dentro sin ser detectado. El peor subproducto de la misma, sin embargo, fue que se creó una falsa comodidad y una vulnerabilidad sin control.

La política de la gran carpa claramente sigue siendo un principio fundamental del nuevo PUP pero vale la pena la sobriedad, la quietud y la clarividencia del actual liderazgo PUP. Se está extendiendo con amor y alegría la curación del hijo pródigo. El PUP es feliz de nuevo. Ellos están en el esfuerzo.

Seguramente, habrá empujones, distracciones, pillería político y propaganda torcidos. Hechos PUP dominará las ondas radiales, sitios de taxis y mercados de pescado. Será casi como si no existe gobierno. Pero existe una razón positiva por ello. El UDP se termino. El pueblo de Belice está esperando esto, así que la estrategia política del UDP será de enlodar las aguas límpidas del PUP. Nadie los tiene en la mira ya.

Pensándolo bien, el comienzo de los temblores intra-muros del PUP le recuerda al BELIZE TIMES de la temporada de Campaña de la Convención Nacional Demócrata del 2007. Esa Convención Presidencial para los demócratas fue las elecciones. Los debates intra-partido de los Demócratas fue la única noticia. -Eclipsó y redujo el candidato republicano a la presidencia a ruido ambiental.

La interrogante era si los EE.UU. tendrían ni un hombre negro o una mujer como presidente. Muy pocos en el mundo todavía recuerda quien fue el candidato presidencial republicano del 2007.

La historia, pues, no son los detalles de la persona que se está corriendo como candidato en distrito electoral en particular. La historia es que el PUP ha cruzado la joroba. Hemos recuperado el pavoneo. Hemos ganado nuestro sentido de la lealtad. Estamos atrapados y comprometidos.

En las calles, la gente está sintiendo que nuestro David en Francisco Fonseca vencerá este Goliat.

1 SEP

2013

Brutalized youth freed of charges Belize City, Friday, August 23rd, 2013 Deon Vernon, a 21 year old student attending the University of Belize was freed of all criminal charges purportedly committed against police officers, following an incident which took place on the night of October 11, 2012.

The charges were levied against Vernon following an altercation which took place at Vernon’s home after police responded to a call that Vernon was behaving in a disorderly manner.

Upon the arrival of police, Vernon’s mother informed the officers that she had the matter under control and requested that they leave, to which one PC Grinage responded “we will not leave until we make an arrest”.

According to Vernon’s mother, what transpired thereafter was one of the most horrific scenes that she has ever witnessed, as her son was brutally attacked by five police officers.

In a very emotional testimony, Ms. Vernon recounted the incident as the officers punched, stomped and wrestled Vernon into submission and threw him into the back of a police mobile on top of his head.

The mobile then took Vernon to the Queen Street Police Station, where an even more violent attack was visited upon him, as the officers used batons to beat Vernon all over his body and head.

In all, Vernon sustained a total of 18 bodily injuries, 17 were classified as “Harm” and 1 as “Wounding”.

Following the beating, Vernon made a formal complaint to the Internal Affairs Office at the Raccoon Street Police Station, but instead of punishing the police officers, the Department decided to add insult to injury by prosecuting Vernon with fabricated offences.

Vernon was slapped with charges of Using Insulting Words, Aggravated Assault, Wounding and Using Threatening Words against the police officers.

On Friday, Vernon finally had his day in court and with overwhelming evidence in his favor, the magistrate had no choice but to free Vernon of all charges following submissions from his Attorney-at-Law, Kareem Musa.

The BELIZE TIMES spoke with Musa following the case who said that, “There is an extremely disturbing trend taking place in Belize right now where police officers are brutally assaulting citizens and to compound matters, after committing these heinous acts, the police actually have the audacity to then levy charges against the victims. Where is the Ombudsman in all of this? Who is standing up for the voiceless and the abused? I am now more than ever convinced that the Police’s Internal Affairs office is a sham and the office of the Ombudsman is a post that exists in name only.”

Musa stated that he has advised Vernon to pursue a civil action against the Police Department for Damages for the injuries he sustained and Malicious Prosecution.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Deon was vindicated by the court

Some of the injuries from police brutality

Sweet Deals & Dying Reefs Belize City, Thursday, August 29, 2013 Here’s something you probably haven’t heard on the local news circuit: 80% of our reefs in the Caribbean are dead.

Think about the Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) deal. If you are the proud parent of a newborn, did you know the average life expectancy in Belize is seventy-six years? Consider, that for the first twenty-five years of your child’s life, NCL will have exclusive rights to Harvest Caye.

Back to that 80% statistic…earlier in August, it was announced as a rough estimate that the Caribbean has lost 80% of its coral reef cover in recent years. An intensive and in depth scientific survey is being conducted: ‘The Catlin scientific survey will undertake the most comprehensive survey yet of the state of the region’s reefs, starting in Belize and moving on to Mexico, Anguilla, Barbuda, St Lucia, Turks & Caicos, Florida and Bermuda.’

According to the Project’s Director, Richard Vevers: “The Caribbean was chosen to launch the global mission because it is at the frontline of risk. Over the last 50 years 80% of the corals have been lost due mainly coastal development and pollution. They now are also threatened by invasive species, global warming and the early effects of ocean acidification — it’s the

perfect storm.”

A perfect storm, that the GOB seems willing and intent on plunging Belize’s fragile marine ecosystem of the South. The GOB wasn’t alone this summer in concluding sweet deals.

Our neighbours across the sea in Jamaica, are ‘raising Cain’ over a secret deal concluded by the Government of Jamaica (GOJ) and China. Recently, it was discovered that the GOJ is planning on “selling out” the 2nd largest island of that archipelagic state to the Chinese for a transshipment port. Goat island as it is known, although inhabitable by humans, is a rich and complex ecosystem. Providing a habitat for several species of fish and some of Jamaica’s indigenous and endangered creatures. It is also located in the Portland Bight area, which, because of its coral reefs and mangroves had been declared a protected area. Imagine a transshipment port in such an area.

Imagine NCL down South.

The GOJ has been accused of not “consulting with the public or with its partners, the environmental bodies, quite contrary to the recent signing of a social partnership with its promise of transparency”.

Sounds all too familiar.

While governments think about the short term of lining their coffers our existence and way of life are threatened.

CARTOON

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THE BELIZE TIMES

1 SEP

2013