Belize Times December 24, 2017

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The Belize Times

Established 1957

24 DECEMBER 2017 | ISSUE NO: 5077

The Truth Shall Make You Free

www.belizetimes.bz | $1.00

STUPIDITY ON STEROIDS! Con Man Pulls a ‘Mason’ on Ministers

Wednesday, 20 December 2017 Just about 24 hours after senior UDP Ministers Erwin Contreras and Manuel Heredia Jr., accompanied by junior Ministers Elodio Aragon Jr. and Tracy Taegar-Panton posed with ‘strategic investor’ Jorge Jaen and an MOU was signed for a $100M International

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YOU’RE A MEAN ONE… MR. GRINCH

Airport on Ambergris Caye, it was revealed that Jaen is very likely just another con man preying on supremely gullible UDP personalities who seem willing to accept the word of any smoothtalking foreigner without conducting any due

ARE AUTHORITIES PROTECTING

RENE MONTERO?

4 WEEKEND MURDERS

POPULAR CAR DEALER SLAIN Wednesday, 20 December 2017 There is still no indication from Police as to when they will charge the main suspect in the stabbing murder of car dealer Mark Vasquez on Saturday night.

Osbaldo Nieto, seen running from the scene of the murder, is apparently still hospitalized with injuries he sustained during the alleged altercation which led to murder.

At around 11:00 that night, Police were called out to an area near the Radisson Pier where they observed a male fleeing the area. They observed that he

Victor Pou

James Pelayo

Oswald Lopez

Mark Vasquez

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STUPIDITY ON STEROIDS!

Continued from page 1 diligence whatsoever.

Jaen, a cursory Google search revealed, is only a real-estate agent who has a shady past, including accusations of major fraud, voter fraud and extortion. Supposedly, Jaen was the front man for an airport development company called International Airport Alliance. According to Minister Manuel Heredia, “That group has a track record of doing several international airports including most recently in Curacao, recently completed.” But again, a cursory search on Google reveal no mention of IAA in the works done in Curacao or anywhere else. In fact, the company has no website.

A further search on google reveals that IAA was registered in October 2016 – apart from making it impossible that the company would have been involved in any major airport project. But more compelling than that was the fact that two names show up on the company records of IAA – Jorge Jaen and, believe it or not, John Smith.

The People’s United Party has lashed out yesterday via release, stating that “The news that the Barrow Administration’s $100MILLION International Airport Santa Claus is actually a realtor based in Miami with no experience in building or in airport development should come as absolutely no surprise to Belizeans. The revelations that the ‘Airport Investor and Developer’ appears to be nothing more than a con-artist with a shady past including allegations of major fraud, voter fraud and extortion should also come as no surprise. The picture of senior UDP Ministers Manuel Heredia Jr. and Erwin Contreras posing with this ‘Developer’ is like déjà vu all over again.”

The Party also referred back to the Puerto Azul fiasco in which UDP Ministers were also duped into giving full support, stating “Just recently, these two Ministers, in the company of Kim Barrow, wife of the Prime Minister, were pictured posing with developers and stakeholders at the launch of the mega-million-dollar exclusive resort, Puerto Azul. These high-ranking Belizeans were ‘wined and dined’ in Cannes, walking the runway for the paparazzi, in support of what was nothing but a scam, a sham. At least Barrow, Contreras and Heredia got the opportunity

LOCAL 21 Dec

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THE BELIZE TIMES

WEATHER 22 Dec

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2017

YOU’RE A MEAN ONE…MR. GRINCH Wednesday, 20 December 2017 Pickstock residents are understandably agitated about the devious games they say their area representative, Wilfred “Sedi” Elrington is playing. For almost a decade and a half, Nathalie Adolphus has been paying a monthly rent at a deteriorating “long barracks” off Oleander Street in Belize City. She says she and the three other families there were promised new apartments. However, families in the old long barracks have watched as other tenants have gotten keys to the building they were promised.

The new structure was built immediately in front of the old barracks that is visibly breaking up and coming apart. Even worse is that they assisted the contractor by providing water and electricity only for Elrington to turn around and carve them out of the initial agreement.

Adolphus who worked as a landscaper for Elrington at the Samuel Haynes Institute of Excel-

lence outlined that through the years, Elrington has promised to help get the residents out of their living conditions. Since the passage of hurricanes, the long barracks has deteriorated even further. Cracks are visible, windows are unchanged and doors are falling apart.

Adolphus shared that Elrington even told the contractor in their presence that the new building would be for them but now he has gone back on his word and Adolphus says she feels violated and chanced. The domestic worker who has four children also claims that Elrington even told her nephew, Cecil Jenkins, Jr. a.k.a. singer “Cocono Boy” who was building a cement house on the property that he would assist with the remainder of the construction. However, up to now, that assistance has not been forthcoming. Instead, the septic tank for the new barracks now sits right in front of his foundation.

The residents are also ac-

cusing Elrington of employing divide and conquer tactics because at least one neighbour has been silenced with the offer of a space in the new apartment building.

A Belize City resident who worked on the construction of the building stated also that Elrington did not provide all the necessary material and capital for the proper construction of the building which is not yet completed. Elrington is saying that the resources to build a new building for the complaining residents is still available but they need to vacate the old barracks first since that is where the next new building will go.

He confirmed that new tenants will fill three of the new apartments and one family from the old barracks will take up the fourth space. However, the residents told us that Elrington had already asked them to vacate with the promise that their rent would be paid, but he also fell through on that promise. Besides, the contractor told them they would not be in their way for construction and so they remained thinking that the new building would be for them to occupy.

POPULAR CAR DEALER SLAIN Continued from page 1 was injured and had blood on his shirt, so he was detained. Just down from that scene officers found Vasquez with multiple stab wounds to the neck. He was immediately rushed to the KHMH but succumbed to his injuries.

According to head of CIB Alejandro Cowo, “sometime around 10:50 he was seen along with another male person hav-

ing a struggle between the lighthouse and the pier at the Radisson Hotel. As a result of that he was found with the stab wounds and transported to the KHMH where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

We have learned that while Police were at the scene a male person was observed with injuries to his body and he was transported to the KHMH and

to sip champagne with the stars – all the nation got was another black-eye and major embarrassment.”

In closing the PUP takes the opportunity “to inform the Barrow Administration of a little-known investigative tool called Google, which can provide valuable information on these so-called investors who target Belize – perhaps simply because our leaders have gotten a name for being very gullible and/or easily bought and paid for.”

The media prepared to waylay Prime Minister Dean Barrow to ask him about the $100M airport con on Tuesday, but he dodged again by having his driver pick him up on the tarmac.

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he is presently being admitted for his injuries. His name is Osbaldo Nieto and we suspect that he can assist in this investigation at this moment."

Police do not believe that robbery was the motive.

The Belize Times

Established 1957

14 APR 2013

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ISSUE NO: 4840

The Truth Shall Make You Free

www.belizetimes.bz

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serving Belize since 1957 as the longest continuous newspaper.

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26 Dec

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THE BELIZE TIMES

2017

ARE AUTHORITIES PROTECTING

RENE MONTERO?

Wednesday, 20 December 2017 As the story on the quarry blast gone wrong in Santa Cruz, Cayo continues to unravel, the various authorities who play a role in the clearance of explosives work for mining purposes keep skirting blame and passing the buck, with serious misinformation being thrown in for good measure.

At Monday’s Police press briefing, ACP Joseph Myvette who heads the National Crimes Investigation Branch confirmed that it is the Commissioner of Police who issued the blaster’s license for Tiger Aggregates to extract construction material for Belize Roadway Construction Company (BRC). This is a Mennonite owned company which was described by their attorney, Rachel Montejo-Juan as the principal roadworks contractor of the Government of Belize that has worked extensively with Tigger Aggregates. However, when asked to simply clarify procedure, specifically the fact that BRC did not have a mining permit or license yet was cleared by Po-

transportation costs without regard for residents’ property or safety.

As we noted, there are many unanswered questions but few people willing to speak the truth, amid allegations that Minister Rene Montero is a part-owner in Tiger Aggregates and the provision of materials for roadworks was a condition to BRC getting the multi-million-dollar contract.

So far, BRC is making pay outs to affected residents and the attorney is no longer indicating whether its insurance company will cover compensation. While the company blames the fatal explosion on human error, others are pointing to gross negligence caused by Ministerial abuse of authority.

December 19, 2017

Déjà vu All Over Again!

The news that the Barrow Administration’s $100MILLION International Airport Santa Claus is actually a realtor based in Miami with no experience in building or in airport development should come as absolutely no surprise to Belizeans. The revelations that the ‘Airport Investor and Developer’ appears to be nothing more than a con-artist with a shady past including allegations of major fraud, voter fraud and extortion should also come as no surprise. The picture of senior UDP Ministers Manuel Heredia Jr. and Erwin Contreras posing with this ‘Developer’ is like déjà vu all over again.

Just recently, these two Ministers, in the company of Kim Barrow, wife of the Prime Minister, were pictured posing with developers and stakeholders at the launch of the mega-million-dollar exclusive resort, Puerto Azul. These high-ranking Belizeans were ‘wined and dined’ in Cannes, walking the runway for the paparazzi, in support of what was nothing but a scam, a sham. At least Barrow, Contreras and Heredia got the opportunity to sip champagne with the stars – all the nation got was another black-eye and major embarrassment.

Similarly, UDP Ministers were taken in by another con-man, William Danny Mason, to the point that he had a special bodyguard of Police personnel, thanks to then Police Minister John Saldivar. Mason, a penny-ante con artist, was paraded in Belize as an Emergency Services expert, and almost every member of Cabinet were regulars at his home in Belmopan, granting Mason favours. This best friend of very senior UDP Ministers is now in jail, accused of heinous murder and kidnapping. Those UDP Ministers who loved him have deserted the sinking ship like rats, but the country has paid the price.

lice, ACP Myvette simply responded that there is a multi-agency investigative approach to the incident and that is still ongoing. A follow-up with Commissioner Allen Whylie proved futile as he ignored salient questions like whether there was any consideration of damage to property before approval given that the quarry sits only meters away from houses.

Notable as well is that Montejo-Juan maintained that the company followed proper procedure and had three permits to conduct mining works. But as it turns out, the company now faces an automatic $5,000 dollar fine for illegal mining. The Ministry of Natural Resources has affirmed that it would never have approved those works in that area.

Perhaps that is what made the company choose to wantonly engage in an activity that endangered the lives of many residents, and ultimately killed the explosives expert and injured several others.

However, as we have previously noted, it appears the blessing came from high up top, and that being the case, no real investigation can be expected.

On a financial note, if the Town Council claims it was unaware of blasting taking place at the Santa Cruz quarry, it is almost guaranteed that government was not charging the private company royalty as required by law - for the extraction of material. Furthermore, there is also a question as to whether the clauses of the contract for BRC’s Santa Elena roadworks were violated when the company moved extraction from the Benque Viejo quarry to Santa Elena. Reports are that this was done to reduce

CARTOON

The PUP takes the opportunity to inform the Barrow Administration of a little-known investigative tool called Google, which can provide valuable information on these socalled investors who target Belize – perhaps simply because our leaders have gotten a name for being very gullible and/or easily bought and paid for. The country cannot risk more fallout arising from the incompetence and stupidity of our UDP Ministers.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

24 DEC

2017

GILROY USHER SR. HAS SUCCESSFUL BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT IN PORT LOYOLA On Sunday December 17, 2017 Penn Road beat 7 other teams at the Penn Road basketball court to win the first prize of $500.00 at the Gilroy Usher Sr. Port Loyola basketball tournament for Christmas. The second-place prize of $300.00 for the event was captured

by PRG which is also from Penn Road.

The tournament had the participation of eight teams, namely Jane Usher, Kraal Road, Penn Road, PRG, Southside, Westlake, Brotherhood and Sunset. In the raffle for the day residents of the division were also very happy to win a total of fifteen prizes in time for the Christmas.

Those prizes included several hams, turkeys and cases of lemonade, soft-drinks and Belikin Beer.

Another highlight of the tournament was the introduction of the PUP Belize City Council slate in the afternoon. Mayoral candidate Bernard Wagner and his ten councilor candidates also used the opportunity to distribute toys to the children at the event.

In delivering the cash prizes for his

traditional tournament for Christmas in the area Gilroy Usher Sr. thanked all those who assisted in any way to make the event the huge success it was. Usher also assured the residents of Port Loyola that given the tremendous contribution of sports to the community, as the next Area Representative for the Division he will promote the discipline heavily throughout the constituency by upgrading the playing fields and ball courts and organizing regular sporting events.

In December 2015 and 2016 Gilroy Usher Sr. held successful basketball tournaments for Christmas in the Jane Usher and Caesar Ridge areas of the division respectively.

The People's United Party, The Belize Times Press, Vibes Radio and TV

Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year 2018 would like to wish all Belizeans a

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2017

EDITORIAL

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THE BELIZE TIMES

WE WILL NOT FORGET

n January, the United Democratic Party will haul out all the stops as they gear up for Municipal Elections slated for March, 2018.

In those two months, millions of dollars will appear like magic, and will be disbursed just as readily in an attempt to maintain the status quo. This is the modus operandi of the Barrow administration. Even now, as we approach the Christmas weekend, you have likely seen UDP Ministers and so-called’ UDP caretakers that you have not seen since the last general election, or ever. Some of you will have been offered the usual $50, or perhaps $25 since they will tell you things are bad. Others of you will get a little plastic bag with rice and beans and flour and a pat on the head to make up for their long absence. A fortunate few will get their choice of a small ham or a tiny turkey, delivered with a card which will remind you of how you are loved. After all, elections are near, and even more than Christmas, that is a season which brings much love and goodwill and gifts from our leaders.

You will see your UDP Mayors and candidates who will walk through mud and swamp and manoeuvre around potholes to tell you how well they have represented you while in office. You will probably recognize some of them from TV. Others you will not know. They will visit your homes where many of you have no electricity or running water or toilets, and ask for your support AGAIN. They will try to convince you that after years and years in office doing nothing, this time they will. Promise. They will smile and hug you and tell you how beautiful your children are. They will even hold your babies.

They won’t want to hear that it is a daily struggle to put food on the table.

They will not want to hear that your entire family sleeps on the floor in one room, and when it rains you all get wet. They will not want to hear that those beautiful children they noticed had to drop out of school, and now hustle on the streets for money to buy food. They won’t want to hear that the reason your babies are crying is because they are hungry. This is not the time for all those negative things. After all, it’s Christmas.

And when January hits…it will be like Christmas just goes on and on and on – at least until March. Our streets will be flooded with people in red shirts telling you that the love is still strong. Those of you fortunate enough to own a television will see countless ads explaining to you that the UDP is an amazing party and that they care for you. In fact, in January and February they care about nothing else but YOU. They won’t give all of you a little small change. In lieu of that, some of you will get promises. It will be the same old recycled promises for the most part – in every municipality but one the UDP has been in power for a long time. Because they have done nothing, they can revisit old manifestos for ideas. Of course, they will also have to come up with a few new goodies because they know that the old unfulfilled promises won’t convince everyone, especially those who are waking up.

This Christmas is not a happy time in the nation. I know, as Editor, that I am supposed to trot out all the glib phrases – all the goodwill and warmth and cheer. I am supposed to think well of everyone and do good to everyone, to the extent that I am able. I am supposed to overlook the little negatives and focus on the positives. But that is difficult, particularly at this time as elections approach.

The poverty in our country is appalling. There are places in Belize City and across the country where it is difficult to imagine human beings living.

There are places, no doubt, where politicians never go. It is incredible that the United Democratic Party chooses to rest on its laurels as if something magnificent has been accomplished during their terms in office. There are UDP slates, including the one in Belize City, which will say that they should be returned to office based on their record.

As we close the book on 2017, perhaps what has been most striking throughout this year, if I can be allowed some Editorial privilege, has been the widening chasm between the very rich (some newly rich) and the very poor. It is easy to identify the very rich – they sit in Cabinet, and their cronies keep very close to them. They are the nouveau riche, and oh how they love to flaunt their money. There is one in Cayo who was bankrupt just before entering office, his properties up for sale. Now he is a multi-millionaire.

We should not forget. Take their hams and turkeys because we are paying for it anyway. But never forget.

We wish all normal Belizeans every happiness this Christmas, and REAL CHANGE in the New Year. See you in 2018, if God permits.

en Español

NO VAMOS A OLVIDAR

E

n enero, el Partido Unido Democrático saldrá con todas las maquinaciones posibles mientras se preparan para las elecciones municipales, previstas para marzo de 2018. En esos dos meses, millones de dólares aparecerán como magia y rápidamente se gastaran en un intento de mantener el status quo. Éste es el modus operandi de la administración de Barrow. Incluso ahora, al acercarse el fin de semana de la Navidad, usted probablemente ha visto a ministros UDP y los llamados ”cuidadores” UDP que no han visto desde las últimas elecciones generales, ni quizá nunca. A algunos de ustedes les habrán sido ofrecidos los habituales $50, o tal vez $25 ya que dicen que andan mal las cosas.

Otros obtendrán una pequeña bolsa de plástico con arroz y frijoles y harina y una palmadita en la cabeza para compensar por su larga ausencia. Unos pocos afortunados tendrán la suerte de escoger entre un pequeño jamón o un pavo pequeño, entregado con una tarjeta que les hará recordar que son amados. Después de todo, las elecciones están cerca, y aun más que la Navidad, ésta es una época que trae mucho amor y buena voluntad y regalos de nuestros líderes.

Ahora verán a sus alcaldes y candidatos UDP caminar a través del lodo y del pantano y maniobrar alrededor de baches para decirte qué tan bien les han representado mientras han estado en gobierno. Usted probablemente reconocerá a algunos de ellos por la televisión. A otros no los conocerán. Visitarán sus hogares donde muchos de ustedes no tienen electricidad ni agua potable ni baños y les pedirán su apoyo una vez más. Intentarán convencerle de que después de años y años en gobierno sin hacer nada, esta vez sí lo harán. Promesa. Te van a sonreír y abrazarte y decirte cuán hermoso son tus hijos. Incluso cargaran a tus bebés.

Ellos no querrán escuchar que es una lucha diaria para poner comida sobre la mesa. No querrán escuchar que toda la familia duerme en el suelo en una habitación, y que cuando llueve todos se mojan. No querrán escuchar que esos hermosos niños que vieron tuvieron que abandonar la escuela y ahora trabajan en las calles por dinero para comprar comida. No querrán oír que la razón por la que sus bebés están llorando es porque tienen hambre. No es el momento para todas esas cosas negativas. Después de todo, es Navidad.

Y cuando llegue enero... será como que la Navidad sigue y sigue y sigue, al menos hasta marzo. Nuestras calles serán inundadas con gente en camisas rojas diciendo que el amor sigue fuerte. Los afortunados que poseen un televisor verán innumerables anuncios explicando que el UDP es un partido increíble y que se preocupan por ti. De hecho, en enero y febrero nada les importara más que usted.

No todos conseguirán un pequeño cambio monetario. En lugar de eso, algunos de ustedes obtendrán promesas. Serán las mismas promesas viejas recicladas en su mayor parte ya que en todos los municipios con la excepción de uno el UDP ha estado en el poder durante mucho tiempo. Porque no han hecho nada, pueden revisar viejos manifiestos para conseguir ideas. Por supuesto, también tendrán que ofrecer algunas cositas nuevas porque saben que las promesas viejas incumplidas no convencerán a todos, especialmente a aquellos que están despertando.

Esta Navidad no es un tiempo feliz en la nación. Sé, como Editor que se supone yo debo sacar a relucir la labia elocuente– toda la buena voluntad y la calidez y la alegría. Debo pensar bien de todo el mundo y hacerles bien a todos, en la medida en la que soy capaz. Debo pasar por alto los pocos negativos y centrarme en los aspectos positivos. Pero eso es difícil, especialmente en este momento cuando se acercan las elecciones.

La pobreza en nuestro país es catastrófica. Hay lugares en la ciudad de Belice y en todo el país donde es difícil imaginar que puedan vivir seres humanos. Hay lugares, sin duda alguna, donde los políticos nunca llegan. Es increíble que el Partido Unido Democrático haya decidido descansar en los laureles como si algo magnífico se ha logrado durante sus periodos en gobierno. Hay candidatos en las plantillas electorales del UDP, incluyendo unos en la ciudad de Belice, que dirán que deben ser reelegidos a sus cargos políticos basados en su récord.

A medida que cerramos el libro en 2017, seguramente lo que ha sido más llamativo a lo largo de este año, si me puedo permitir algún privilegio como editor, ha sido el abismo creciente entre los muy ricos (algunos nuevos ricos) y los muy pobres.

Es fácil identificar a los muy ricos – se sientan en el gabinete, y sus compinches se mantienen muy cerca de ellos. Son los nuevos ricos, y ah como les encanta hacer exhibición de su dinero. Hay uno en el Cayo que estaba en quiebra justo antes de entrar en el poder, sus propiedades estaban en venta. Ahora es un multimillonario.

No debemos olvidar. Tomemos sus jamones y pavos porque nosotros estamos pagando de todos modos. Pero nunca olvidemos.

Les deseamos a todos los beliceños normales toda felicidad esta Navidad y un cambio REAL en el año nuevo. ¡Nos vemos en el 2018, si Dios lo permite!

0 6 4 06 GOB Pushing Reappointment of Lawbreaking Contractor-General

THE BELIZE TIMES

Wednesday, 20 December 2017 The UDP Administration came in for a big surprise at the last sitting of the Senate for 2017 on December 13th. That’s when UDP Senator Godwin Hulse – the same sanctimonious Godwin - had the gall to affirm that Godwin Arzu, the Contractor-General fills all the requirements for reappointment, and is therefore a fit and proper person to continue holding that office. The motion had already been opposed by the Hon. John Briceño at a previous House sitting so it was sent to committee. When it was brought back at the last House Sitting for 2017, Prime Minister Dean Barrow blocked the Hon. Cordel Hyde from speaking on the matter. However, the social partners would not let the Barrow administration have its way because by the time of the senate meeting, they too had realized the importance of the post.

With their opposition, the Leader of Government Business had no other option but to withdraw the motion for now.

The problem is that time is drawing near. Arzu’s appointment comes to an end on December

31st and there won’t be another Senate meeting before then. His first appointment to the post became effective in January 2009 and lasted three years. Since 2013, he has been reappointed every two years.

Hulse stated that Arzu continues to possess the relevant qualifications and fulfils the requirements for reappointment but Opposition Senator Valerie Woods said “not so!” She outlined stipulations of the Contractor General’s Act that Arzu is breaking. Chief among them are the annual reports he is required to produce. The last Contractor-General’s report was presented to Parliament in 2013.

The Contractor-General serves a function of accountability in Belize’s democracy. In fact, the C o n t r a c t o r- G e n e r a l monitors the justified and unbiased award as

well as the implementation of public contracts to ensure there is no corruption, mismanagement or waste. With all the questions surrounding recent failed public works contracts which raise questions about impropriety and irregularities that the Act speaks to, Belize needs a Contractor-General who will do his/her job for the benefit of the country. Business Senator Mark Lizarraga commented, “We are in an era of unprecedented spending and public works; we are in an era of un-

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2017

precedented and unchecked spending and borrowing. And his office is a very important office for the strengthening of our democracy, for accountability in this country.” Of course, it suits the Barrow administration just fine to retain someone who is failing in his duties. It is left to be seen whether Barrow intends to have his way and ram this unjustified and unworthy appointment down the throats of Belizeans. As a side note, Arzu is a trained attorney, not an engineer.

24 DEC

2017

NO GUATEMALANS ALLOWED IN KREM CYCLING CLASSIC Wednesday, 20 December 2017 The management of KREM Radio has requested that the Cycling Federation of Belize disallow Guatemalans from participating in the annual New Year’s Day Cycling Classic. The ballsy move was announced on the Wake Up Belize Morning Vibes show on Monday December 18 by host, Evan “Mose” Hyde.

The unexpected announcement came as guests discussed the upcoming 28th KREM Classic. Hyde explained that as the organizer of the race which is a precursor to the big Holy Saturday Cross Country Cycling Classic, the decision is on principle.

He stated, “they decided to put out a map this year that does not represent our border. And though it is not the cyclists or athletes who have done that, in our view, on the principle of it, we believe that that disrespect and that situation requires us to have some line drawn…our line drawn is that until THAT is changed, until our neighbour decides to accept us as being a sovereign nation state with our borders, we will not participate in a process where they can continue to enjoy the same benefits of every oth-

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THE BELIZE TIMES We do have a great relationship with every federation within Central America, Guatemala included...and so as we do respect the wishes of the organizer, we just want to put it out there that there is no bad blood when it comes to sports between the federations.”

Belizeans were heartbroken for the biggest event on the cycling calendar when a Guatemalan national team cyclist, Alejandro Padilla captured the garland on Belize soil, not only once but twice! The professional cyclist who dedicates himself fully to cycling won in 2016 with the assistance of his brother.

In 2017, much to the chagrin of Belizeans, he returned to capture the big “W” once more with the support of another Guatemalan rider, Alder Torres. The duo cut a deal with their closest contender, American Patrick Raines so that Padilla could defend his title. Since the 2016 win, many have clamoured for Guatemalans to be denied participation in our most sacred race but the call has fallen on deaf ears. For its part, Guatemala boycotted the CODICADER primary school games hosted in Belize in July 2016 as a result of tension between the two countries in the ongoing territorial dispute.

NOTICE LEMOYNE FINANCE LTD. # 122,799 (“the Company”) er nation that can come and be a part of our event.”

Hyde proceeded to clarify that the decision is KREM’s alone and has nothing to do with the Federation.

Guest on the show at the time was Federation President Dion Leslie who did not appear all too comfortable with the disclosure and hastened to make a clarification. He stated, “we do know that sports transcends borders.

Pursuant to Section 102 (8) of the International Business Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2000, notice is hereby given that LEMOYNE FINANCE LTD. has been dissolved as at 14th December, 2017 and has been struck off the Register of International Business Companies.

MACLACHLAN & DENNIN LIMITED Registered Agent

0 8 4 08 ANOTHER TAXI-DRIVER MURDERED

THE BELIZE TIMES

Wednesday, 20 December 2017 Belmopan Police are investigating the murder of 69-year-old Oswald Lopez, a taxi driver who was found stabbed to death on the outskirts of the city. So far, they have been able to retrieve what are being referred to as key pieces of evidence that could help them catch this gentleman’s killer.

Police say that around 2:55 p.m. on Sunday, December 17, they visited an area across from the Hector Silva Airstrip, and that’s where they found Lopez’s body. He was on the ground a short distance away from his taxi, a gold Kia Sorrento; the engine of the vehicle was reportedly still running. The officers observed multiple stab wounds to his upper body.

His family told the media that he had his usual Sunday afternoon routine, where he would stop by the market to pick up some food for lunch. Hours before he was found dead, he met a few of them there, and he told them that there was not much business activity taking place at the taxi stand. His intention was to go home and get some rest. That was the last they heard from him until less than 3 hours later when his body was discovered. Family

members went to his house to see what they could discover, and they say that his plate of food was left mostly untouched. They were able to at least confirm that he arrived at home.

It is not certain what led him led him to leave, and it is being considered that either his killer or killers lured him out on the pretence of doing a job, or that whoever killed him ambushed him and forced him to drive to the area where he was murdered. The cops have recovered personal belongings they think belongs to the killer, and they are in possession of what they suspect is the murder weapon.

As to the man whose life was prematurely ended, his family and friends are stunned because his personality did not match the violence that was visited on him. He is described as friendly and jovial. His fellow taxi colleagues say that he was always entertaining them with jokes. He was also a singer and a musician who loved performing. His family says that the late Andy Palacio was his brother.

They say that he got the nickname “Elvis”, because, the American singer and musician was his idol. He used to even dress like Elvis Presley.

He is said to have left behind over 20 children.

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INDEPENDENCE VILLAGER BRUTALLY MURDERED Wednesday, 20 December 2017 Independence Police have detained 3 persons in connection with the chopping murder of 21-year-old Victor Pou. They have not charged any of the suspects with Pou’s murder, but one of the men has been charged with a separate crime.

Police say that at around 6 a.m. on Sunday, December 17, they were called to an area of Independence Village near the community’s BTL tower, and that’s when they discovered Pou’s lifeless body. Someone had chopped him to death.

His family says that he left his home at around 10 o’clock on Saturday night, December 16, and he was on his way to his workplace.

He was a watchman for a business place in Independence Village, but he never made it to work.

Police investigation reveals that on the way he was attacked by several persons, which is consistent with reports from the village that a passerby spotted Pou struggling with 2 men. It is believed that he was attacked, robbed, and left for dead, in an area that has reportedly been the scene of oth-

er such crimes, since it is dark and has low police presence. The cops say that several of his personal belongings were missing. He has no known enemies and his missing personal items suggest that this was a robbery.

His relatives and friends are hurt and they want justice for his killing. They say that he was a very responsible young man who was doing his best to better himself.

He is said to have been a regular attendant to church, and that he was working to put himself through junior college. His family says that he worked very hard to be able to afford it, and in May of 2018, he would have graduated from the Independence Junior College with a degree in accounting. He is described as a young man who was either at church, home or school.

Reports to the press are that one of the 3 suspects who police detained have been charged for a robbery which occurred before Pou was murdered. They are all originally from Belize City, and at this time, Police believe that they may have been on a type of crime spree that Saturday night.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

ON THE

MOVE

Giving Back...

Giving Hope!

Christmas is a time for giving, a time of sharing, or good feelings and goodwill to all. But let this also be a time of reflection and resolve. As Belizeans, we should reflect on the quality of our lives, and on the way that we have been governed. We should reflect on where we want to go as a people – the opportunities we should have, and the legacy we want to leave our children. And we MUST resolve to come together in unity and strength to fight for the change that we want to see.

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10 SPORTS

THE BELIZE THE BELIZE TIMES TIMES Brown Bombers Win

SMART Mundialito Championship

Belize City, December 17, 2017 The Brown Bombers won the 2017 SMART Mundialito football championship at the Marion Jones Sports Complex on Sunday afternoon. In Game 1, the Hattieville Riverside Boys won the consolation game for 3rd place: 1-0 against the defending champs, City Boys, when Oswald Young scored the winning goal late in the 2nd half.

In Game 2, a friendly exhibition game, the coaches won 2-1 over the officials.

In Game 3, the championship final, the Bombers won 1-0 against the LaChamps 2017, dyville Rising Stars when Brandon Smith Brown Bombers scored the winning goal with a rightaway shot off a rebound off the goalie, who had deflected a free kick by Keyden Shaay.

The 1st and 2nd place winners received team trophies and individual trophies from SMART’s Marketing Director Anthony Mahler, who also presented a team trophy and individual medals to the 3rd place winners.

2nd Place, BDF Individual awards: Rising Stars Best Goalkeeper Tarique Campbell - BDF Rising Stars.

Best Coach - Daniel Smith - BDF LaBest Defence - Peter Morgan of Brown Bombdyville Rising Stars ers.

Fair Play award – Keyden Shaay Best Midfield - Enoch Rhaburn - Hattieville Brown Bombers.

Riverside Boys MVP regular season - Cesar Garcia Best Forward - Kayia Requena - City Boys BDF Ladyville Rising Stars Most Goals ‘Golden Boot’ - Jose Almendarez MVP Playoffs - Brandon Smith - Brown Hattieville Riverside Boys.

Bombers.

Stann Creek Ecumenical Boys Win NSSSA Basketball Championship

MVP Kevon Laurie

San Ignacio, December 16, 2017 The Stann Creek Ecumenical High School boys won their 2nd back to back National Secondary Schools Sports Association’s (NSSSA) basketball championship hosted by Mopan Technical High School and sponsored

by SOL Belize Ltd and Crystal Water at the Sacred Heart College auditorium in San Ignacio over the weekend.

In Game 1 on Friday evening, Ecumenical won 50-48 vs. the Central Zone champs - the Sadie Vernon Technical High boys, led by MVP Kevon Laurie with 22pts. Guy Sutherland scored 11pts, Asali Lambert hit 2 treys and Hasan Serano added 4pts. SVTHS’ Ashton Alvarez scored 18pts, Tyrece Usher added 17pts and Shawn Ortiz – 4pts.

In Game 2 on Friday night, the Western Zone

champs – the Belmopan Comprehensive boys had to go to double overtime to win 94-83 against the Northern Zone champs - the Orange Walk Technical High boys. BCS’ Roderick Castillo scored 24pts, Shawn Menzies added 21pts and Shamar Tablada posted 19pts. Eyon Anderson put up 11pts, and Darnell Anderson - 10pts. OWTHS’ Rasheed Reneau scored 32pts, Clinton Shaw added 31pts, and Vincent Young posted 12pts.

In Game 3, the consolation game for 3rd place on Saturday, SVTHS dominated the Sugar City boys: 86-57.

SVTHS’ Ashton Alvarez scored 29pts, and Tyrese Usher added 21pts. Michael Bowen put up 11pts, and Dre Gladden - 9pts.

OWTHS’ Rasheed Reneau scored 40pts and Davis Smith added 13pts. Vincent

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2016 2017

Delille Academy Girls Win NSSSA Basketball Championship

San Ignacio, December 16, 2017 The Delille Academy girls won the National Secondary Schools Sports Association’s (NSSSA) basketball championships hosted by Mopan Technical High School and sponsored by SOL Belize Ltd and Crystal Water at the Sacred Heart College auditorium in San Ignacio over the weekend.

In Game 1 on Friday evening, the Delille girls eliminated the Central Zone champs, the Anglican Cathedral College girls 37-29, led by MVP Shanelle Thomas with 14pts, Edith Engleton scored 6pts and Aliyah Augustine added 3pts.

ACC’s Zaria Jenkins scored 16pts, Jane Martinez added 7pts and Brea Gabourel and Brianna Gibson scored a bucket apiece.

In Game 2 Friday night, the Western Zone champs – the Sacred Heart College girls eliminated the Northern Zone champs, the Muffles College girls from Orange Walk: 2314, led by Tanya Warrior with 7pts. Cheyenne Gordon added 6pts and Selvi Tate and Dayvin Aldana scored 4pts apiece.

Sugar City’s Kyra Chimilio scored 8pts, and Crystal Marin and Becky Tabora threw in a bucket apiece.

In Game 3, the consolation game for 3rd place Saturday morning, the ACC girls blew away Muffles: 37-9, led by Zaria Jenkins and Jane Martinez scoring 16pts apiece. Camryn Hinds and Brianna Gibson scored a bucket apiece. Sugar City’s Aaliyah Leiva scored 5pts, and Alahnie Bainton – 4pts.

In Game 4, the championship final Saturday afternoon, the Delille girls ran over the Sacred Heart girls: 42-16, led by MVP Shanelle Thomas with 17pts and Edith Engleton threw in 8pts. Aliyah Augustine added 4pts. Cayo’s Cheyenne Gordon scored 6pts, Tanya Warrior added 5pts and Hamisha Awe – 4pts.

The 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners received team trophies and individual medals from NSSSA president Julio Llinas and other members of the committee at the awards ceremony after the finals.

Individual awards: Most Rebounds - ACC’s Jane Martinez Most Blocks - ACC’s Jane Martinez Most Assists - ACC’ Zaria Jenkins Most Points – Delille’s Shanelle Thomas Most Valuable Player - Delille’s Shanelle Thomas Most Steals – Edith Engleton – Delille Academy.

Young had 4pts.

In Game 4, the championship final, the Ecumenical boys won 56-34 against the BCS boys.

MVP Kevon Laurie scored 21pts, Guy Sutherland posted 12pts and Mathildo Gordon added 11pts.

Kwesi Pascual hit 2 treys, and Hasan Serano and Karimi Lambert scored a bucket apiece.

The 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners received team trophies and individual medals from NSSSA president Julio Llinas and other members of the committee

at the awards ceremony after the finals.

Individual awards: Most Rebounds – Rasheed Reneau – OWTHS Most Points – Rasheed Reneau - OWTHS Most Steals - Roderick Castillo - BCS Most Blocks - Kevon Laurie - SCEHS Most Assists - Kevon Laurie - SCEHS Most Valuable Player Kevon Laurie - SCEHS

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2016 2016 2017

THE BELIZE TIMES

ON THE

MOVE

The Corozal PUP 7 Team, working with the Corozal Bay committee have been hard at work bringing cheer into the lives of residents this Christmas. Over the past few days they have been distributing hampers and sending out the message that change is coming.

Merry Christmas from your PUP teams in Corozal.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Bah Humbug

I’m telling you the truth. I’ll be glad when this election season is over. I can’t wait for the municipals to come and I’m praying that old bad back Dean decides to pull a fast one and calls a double election. I think he will. And I think he’ll get the surprise of his life. Like many Belizeans, I am in awe of how many things have gone wrong under the UDP. Way back in the days I used to call it the reverse Midas touch. Unlike old King Mi-

das whose touch turned things to gold, King Dean’s touch turns everything to crap (normally I’d have said shit but it’s the Christmas season so I’m being sweet).

I’ve been looking at this $100M International Airport on Ambergris Caye thing lately. This government can’t be for real. I swear. First of all, it’s a stupid idea. The PGIA isn’t operating at close to capacity and now we’ll have another? Makes no sense. Second of all, if planes carrying passengers land at this International Airstrip on Ambergris Caye, then what happens to Maya and Tropic and the water-taxis who have hundreds of employees and many millions invested? Third of all, since this International Airstrip will supposedly offer employment to thousands of Belizeans…where are they and their families going to live exactly?

For the love of God. San Pedro

doesn’t even have a hospital or a morgue. But the government says it wants to build a $100M International Airport. Estupidos! But here’s the best thing. The strategic investor they got to build this International Airport seems to be attempting to pull a ‘Mason’ on the government. Apparently, he’s just a real-estate agent from Miami. And this company which Minister Heredia says has built so many International Airports just opened its doors last year – registered by the same real estate agent and his partner, a Mr. John Smith.

Know the guy? Sounds perfectly credible to me. Sheesh.

I’ve never forgotten this documentary by that crazy guy John McAfee. It was called Gringo. And no, I don’t remember it because of the hole in the hammock thing. Get your minds out the gutter. It’s because he made me feel ashamed of my little country. This lunatic came to Belize and because he had a little money, politicians were bending over backwards and probably forwards too. He was able to buy off who he needed to buy off and live like a demented king – in our country.

What the hell is wrong with us? What have we become? As I’m writing this somebody just posted on Facebook that Belize has become the symbol for ignorance and stupidity. Wow. Dean Oliver dodged the media again today. He’s been leaving the country just about every other week and now when he comes back his driver gets him off the tarmac so he doesn’t have to answer any of the tough questions. I don’t now how much longer that guy can hold out,

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truthfully, because he’s been looking like an old wrinkled sock. Still talks pretty, but nobody wants to hear the words that are coming out his mouth except for the usual medley of bubby-suckers – and nobody cares about them anyway.

I was flying out to San Pedro from the municipal earlier this week. I hate flying. It scares me. We have no business being way up there. I spend every minute of every flight looking out the window, checking the wings to make sure nothing falls off. That’s what I was doing as the plane gathered speed on the runway, and I am absolutely sure that the runway at the Municipal is sinking in spots. It’s plain to see. Not only that, but you can feel those spots as the plane gets ready for take-off and when it lands. We’ve been duped again by Dean Oliver and his magnificent contractor Imer Hernandez, who just happens to be the nephew of DOB’s best friend Gaspar.

I remember like it was yesterday when the media braced DOB about Imer. See, the truth is that he is a crappy contractor. None of his work every holds up, and he keeps getting all the contracts. Dean was quick to defend him and point to the Municipal Airstrip as a stellar success – stellar success my ass.

I swear my thoughts ramble all over the place. I’ll blame it on old age.

Since I’m a sappy old sentimental fool during this time, let me wish all normal Belizeans a wonderful Christmas. All you not normal Belizeans who’ve raped this country and raped us – well you guys can go straight to hell. I’ll see you when I see you.

24 DEC

2017

THE BELIZE TIMES

ON THE

MOVE

Landy Habet Takes Santa Clause to Cayo Northeast Monday, 18 December 2017 Last week the Hon. Orlando Habet, Area Representative for Cayo North-East was out in his constituency spreading Christmas cheer. Habet and his team, in the company of Santa Claus, visited schools bringing treats for all students. Habet partnered with the Esperanza Roman Catholic School for their annual Christmas program. He expressed gratitude to Jean Conorquie, mother of fallen soldier, Danny Conorquie, who worked tirelessly to provide gifts in Danny’s memory to pre-schools of Central Farm, Georgeville and other villages.

Habet also partnered with the Santa Familia Primary School, taking Santa Claus to bring joy and laughter into the hearts of the children - “I take this opportunity to thank the Chairman Beto Cabb for his assistance, Arthur Smith for volunteering to be Santa and the principal and staff of Santa Familia RC School. Some 320 school age children, approximately 125 nonschool age children, all parents and teachers present also received goodies from Santa today. Thanks also to Dona Lola and the Guerras. Branch Mouth children and those from San Jorge received treats as well. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.” Children from Duckrun 2 pre-schools and primary schools also enjoyed the happiness of Christmas with a visit from Santa Claus. So far, they have issued a total of almost 5000 bags of treats to children in his constituency. This week Habet, his team and Santa will go over to Duckrun 1 and Moratown bearing gifts and treats for more children.

Habet is also contributing to needy families and golden citizens by gifting grocery hampers.

Hon. Orlando Habet and the Cayo North East Executive Committee wish all residents a Merry Christmas and a Blessed and Prosperous New Year 2018!

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THE BELIZE TIMES

The Board of Directors,

Committees, Management & Staff of

Our office will be open for business from 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM on Friday, December 22, 2017

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24 DEC

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THE BELIZE TIMES

2017

THINKING OUT LOUD BY: KEVIN BERNARD

I had a very interesting Facebook experience this week as my team and I prepared to go campaigning. Somebody called my attention to a post by Alberto August, the Chairman of the United Democratic Party, whom I’ve always thought is a coarse and foolish person. Apparently, he posted sometime this week that there is a desperate need for infrastructure work in Orange Walk and that is why residents should vote for the UDP slate. I found it hilarious, to tell you the truth. I don’t really take any of the things these guys say to heart. They’re being paid very well to talk nonsense and they’re singing for their supper.

But what I found interesting, and heart-warming were the responses to the posts – the comments not only from residents of Orange Walk but Belizeans from other areas. They all blasted August for his stupidity and pointed to all the work that has been done in this community – for all residents regardless of political affiliation.

On behalf of my team, I take this opportunity to express my appreciation to those of you who took the time to comment and to set Alberto August straight.

Either he hasn’t been to Orange Walk or he is just being stupid. I genuinely am grateful for the responses because it shows that we have been on the right track here in our town. Incredibly, some of the persons who answered August have been traditionally UDP supporters, but I feel that because I have never played politics with the people, they are willing to return that respect. I won’t dwell on it, but it is a good feeling.

Early in the New Year our team will be presenting our plan of action for the next term 20182021. What our people will see when they look at it is a comprehensive, well-thought out guideline for the works we will be doing in the coming months, the areas that we will focus on and the programs that we will be implementing. It is not a document that we prepared

overnight. We have been serving this town for a long time now, and some of the commitments in our manifesto will be just a continuation of the work which has been carried out. But there is so much more. We signed on as a Child Friendly Municipality months back, and even before that we were committed to the protection of our children, particularly as they pursue their education.

But we recognize that we will need to do more to ensure that our children will be able to study and exist in a safe and secure environment where they will have access to opportunities to succeed.

We will also be focusing more attention on sports and sporting facilities as a means not only of healthy recreation but of character development. We will be looking at more participation of women in the decisions of the Council particularly, but also in other areas of the community where those opportunities may not exist. We will be looking at health, and education, and tourism because for our community to develop all these things need to be in place and functioning efficiently and effectively.

I know that we can get these things done not only because of the commitment and character of our team, but because we have seen in the past years that our community is always willing to support us because they know that we deliver. We have been a Council that is transparent and accountable, and we have managed your finances responsibly. The work speaks for itself.

I want to end this year on a note of sincere appreciation. There are many things that we need to be grateful for, as individuals and as a close-knit community. It is my hope this Christmas that we hold on to our blessings even when things seem tough. We may not have all that we would want, but we have life and family and friends. On behalf of our team, I give thanks for your confidence in us, and give you my assurance that we will never let you down.

From our families to yours, have a happy Christmas and a blessed and productive New Year.

NOTICE VESTA WORLDWIDE LTD. #144,347 (“the Company”) Pursuant to Section 102 (4) of the International Business Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2000, notice is hereby given that VESTA WORLDWIDE LTD. a) Is in dissolution b) Commenced dissolution on the 15th day of December 2017; and c) SOTERIS PHOTIOU whose address is 18 Kyriakou Matsi, 2nd Floor, 2408 Nicosia, Cyprus is the Liquidator of the Company.

CILTRUST INTERNATIONAL LIMITED Registered Agent

NOTICE GLOBALSERVE HOLDING LTD.: # 142,731 (“the Company”) Pursuant to Section 102 (4) of the International Business Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2000, notice is hereby given that GLOBALSERVE HOLDING LTD.: a) Is in dissolution b) Commenced dissolution on the 15th day of December, 2017; and c) SOTERIS PHOTIOU whose address is 18 Kyriakou Matsi, 2nd Floor, 2408 Nicosia, Cyprus is the Liquidator of the Company.

CILTRUST INTERNATIONAL LIMITED Registered Agent

NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the Companies listed below have been dissolved and duly struck off the IBC Register as follows: NAME OF COMPANY VATER TRADING S.A. FRASER DEVELOPMENT LTD. DUBLIN BUSINESS LTD. COLLINSVALE HOLDINGS S.A. SOBELIX CONTINENTAL S.A. BUENA VISTA INC. ANASTATICA COMMERCIAL CORP. FINEST CONSULT S.A. ROOKWOOD INVEST CORP. OTTOBIANO ESTATE INC. BARBORA GROUP LTD. NEWBER ASSET CORP. NUCBS CORP. SERENYS MANAGEMENT S.A. ASTUL HOLDING CORP. LADY SETTLOR LTD. STALL MAASJHELL LTD. ETAXE CONSULTING CORP.

Date of Dissolution 3-Nov-17 3-Nov-17 3-Nov-17 3-Nov-17 3-Nov-17 3-Nov-17 9-Nov-17 9-Nov-17 11-Nov-17 17-Nov-17 22-Nov-17 24-Nov-17 24-Nov-17 25-Nov-17 28-Nov-17 28-Nov-17 29-Nov-17 30-Nov-17

Morgan & Morgan Trust Corporation Belize Ltd.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

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MOVE

A Christmas to Remember in Orange Walk It is always an incredible feeling to see the smiles on the faces of our children and all our residents at Christmas Time. From your PUP 7 team in Orange Walk, we wish you and your families a Merry Christmas.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

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CHRISTMAS MESSAGE FROM

HON. JOHN BRICEÑO Leader of the People’s United Party

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year Christmas time is truly my favourite time of the year. As we come together with family and friends, let us not forget that through good times and bad we are fortunate to live in beautiful Belize.

To be Belizean is special because we always care for each other - not just during the Christmas season, but every day. After all, this spirit of caring and sharing resides in each of us who are lucky to live in this great land.

When one Belizean family falls on rough times, we see other family and friends come together to help. When tragedy strikes a community, we see businesses and social organizations step up and pitch in. From fire victims to those in need of medical attention abroad, the spirit of generosity is always present in all of us.

I recall the recent floods in Santa Marta and the disastrous fire in Majestic Alley in Belize City how quickly families and local leaders stepped in to help, making sure affected families had a place to stay, clothes to wear, and food to eat.

When the hurricanes hit our sister nations in the Caribbean, our PUP Party immediately passed a resolution calling on the government to grant some Caribbean families refugee status in Belize. We in Belize have always opened our hearts and homes to those most in need, more so at Christmas time. We do this because we sincerely believe that there is always some way in which we can help and that we are at our very best when we reach out to those who are in need.

So, during this Christmas season, which is the season of hope, let us reach out to each other. Let us share in whatever way we can, and although times are tough these days, let us make sure this holiday season is a happy time for everyone, especially the children, who are our most precious resources.

On behalf of the People’s United Party and from my family to families everywhere: May God bless us everyone. Feliz Navidad

La época màs maraillosa del año La Navidad es realmente mi época favorita del año. A medida que nos reunimos con la familia y amigos, no olvidemos que durante los buenos y malos momentos somos afortunados de vivir en este Belice…hermoso.

Ser beliceño es especial porque es parte de nuestra naturaleza cuidar y velar el uno para el otro – y no sólo durante esta época del año, pero todos los días. Después de todo, este espíritu de cuidar y compartir reside en cada uno de nosotros que tenemos la suerte de vivir en esta gran nación.

Cuando una familia beliceña pasa por tiempos difíciles, vemos que otra familia y amigos se unen para ayudar. Cuando la tragedia golpea una comunidad vemos como las empresas y organizaciones sociales se organizan y ayudan. De las víctimas de un incendio, a los que necesitan atención médica en el extranjero, el espíritu de la generosidad está siempre presente en todos nosotros. Recuerdo las inundaciones recientes en Santa Marta y el incendio terrible en Majestic Alley en la ciudad de Belice, cómo rápidamente las familias y los líderes locales empezaron a ayudar, asegurándose de que las familias afectadas tuvieran un lugar para alojarse, ropa para vestir y alimentos para comer.

Cuando los huracanes golpearon a nuestras naciones en el Caribe, nuestro partido el PUP inmediatamente aprobó una resolución pidiéndole al Gobierno otorgarle refugio a familias Caribeñas en Belice.

En Belice siempre abrimos nuestros corazones y hogares a los más necesitados, más aún en Navidad.

Hacemos esto porque creemos sinceramente que siempre hay alguna manera en que podemos ayudar y que estamos en nuestro mejor momento cuando ayudamos a aquellos que están en necesidad.

Así que durante la temporada de Navidad, que es la época de la esperanza, ayudemos uno al otro.

Compartamos en todo lo que podemos y aunque los tiempos son difíciles en estos días, hagamos que esta temporada de fiestas sea un momento feliz para todos, especialmente los niños que son nuestros recursos más preciados.

De parte de mi familia y la familia PUP les deseamos a todas las familias: Feliz Navidad que Dios les bendiga a todos y que tengan una feliz temporada de fiestas navideñas.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

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MOVE

Micho Spreads Christmas Cheer in Cayo North!

Monday, 18 December 2017 On Sunday evening, Cayo North residents came out for a fun-filled evening at the Cayo CET compound in San Ignacio Town. The residents were hosted by PUP Cayo North Standard Bearer Michel Chebat and the Cayo North Executive committee who prepared a wonderful program for the evening, spreading the love and joy that Christmas brings. All residents were greeted at the entrance by the Mayoral Candidate for the Twin Towns Marconi Matus and the PUP Councillor candidates; Floyd Lemus, Arthur Smith, Zoila Palma, Javier Castellanos, Kevin Windsor and Elio Pulido.

All guests were issued a ticket for an opportunity to win a stove and a blender along with other household items. Children also received tickets for their gifts and played in a bouncy castle at the event. The event also saw the participation of Santa Claus, and each child was given an opportunity to sit on Santa’s lap and take a picture with the official Cayo North photographer. Guests were treated to a warm plate of rice and beans, baked chicken and salad. There were also blue cupcakes for everyone.

Chebat thanked all the residents for coming and extended holiday greetings: “Thank you all for joining us today. On behalf of myself, my family and our PUP Cayo North Executive, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Blessed and Prosperous New Year. We hope that you enjoy this evening that we have prepared for you.” Mayoral Candidate Marconi Matus also greeted the residents: “We wish you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, departe de nuestro equipo del PUP 7 les desiamos un Feliz Navidad y Prospero Ano Nuevo.” The children were excited about getting treats from three beautifully decorated piñatas that were available for them. Their faces lit up as the master of ceremonies announced that it was time for Santa to hand out gifts. The Cayo North team issued a total of 750 gifts for boys and girls bringing joy and happiness to each child present at the party.

The cheerful ambience was felt throughout the entire Christmas program.

At the end of the evening, Veronica Najarro, a resident of Kontiki Area, San Ignacio walked away with the brand -new stove that was raffled. Every child went home delighted with their well wrapped Christmas present courtesy the Cayo North Executive Committee. Thank you Micho and Cayo North for sharing the joy and happiness of Christmas with us!

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THE BELIZE TIMES

OPINION

OUT DESTRUCTION OF OUR PUP LEGACY IN BENQUE VIEJO TOWN “A Government that is big enough to give you all you want is big enough to take it all away” — Thomas Jefferson —

!

These are some examples of projects created by the PUP and abandoned by the UDP in Benque Viejo del Carmen.

• The Confectionery Factory near to the Town Board built in 1970 under the PUP Mayor

Norberto Luna.

• Benque Viejo Old Market built by the PUP in 1972 under the PUP Mayor Aliff Coleman.

• The access road to Mopan Technical School.

• Edison Coleman Recreation Centre built by the PUP from 1991 to 1992 under the PUP Mayors Moises Martinez and Edgar Contreras.

The Benque Viejo Old Market has been abandoned for several years; currently it looks like a Mayan Ruin.

The truth be told, government plays a pivotal role in any economy. A government’s main role is to create an enabling environment so as to stimulate and sustain a vibrant and growing economy. Unfortunately, the case of Belize is a disgrace!

Mopan Technical School was built by the PUP and inaugurated by Minister of Education Hon. Said Musa on 23rd of March, 1983. Some days ago, we saw how our students had to fix the access road to the institution, something that should be the Town Board duties.

The Town Board has the finances from taxes collected and subvention plus manpower.

It’s a shame that our students had to do it!

The foundational idea of the Edison Coleman Recreation Centre was to take advantage of the paradisiacal landscape of the Mopan River, near to the Town Council building, also constructed by the PUP and officially inaugurated in 1973. The Edison Coleman Project was accepted with pride and several cultural activities were celebrated there. The current status of this facility is total abandonment by the UDP Town Council.

This facility continued working till 2001. When

the UDP got back to the Town Council it closed indefinitely.

It is a shame that politics destroys the achievements and recreational choices of our people in Benque.

With all the escalating scandals of corruption in government, will the Belizean people vote UDP in the upcoming Municipal Elections? We certainly cannot stand for that type of ignorance and won’t yield to it!

Where do you stand, Belize?

After 17 long years of UDP rule, it’s time for the real builders of Benque Viejo del Carmen to show that there are more efficient ways of administering our Town. Also, it’s time to send a clear message to the

UDP Central Government that enough is enough. The people are “fed up” with UDP corruption and exploitation.

The PUP is stronger than ever and together we will move forward to bring back a better life for our people.

We embrace the new change and new hope introduced by our great leader Hon. John Briceño and we sign on to the re-introduction of social justice platform for all.

You can reach your own conclusions.

God bless you all our beloved Belizeans.

Dr. Pedro Villegas Email: pup_benque_candidates@hotmail.com

BY ORDER OF CHARGEE NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SELL HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED a statutory body formed and registered under the Credit Union Act, Chapter 314 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2000, and whose registered office is situated at No. 1 Hyde’s Lane, Belize City, Belize District hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Chargee under and by virtue of a Charge registered at the Land Registry between ROBERTO ORELLANO of the one part and HRCU of the other part.

HRCU will at the expiration of three months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the property described in the Schedule below.

ALL offers to purchase the said property must be made in writing to Holy Redeemer Credit Union Limited from whom full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained.

SCHEDULE ALL THAT piece or parcel of land comprising 349.73 square metres being Parcel 258, Block 45 in the St. Martin De Porres West Registration Section situate off Mahogany Street Extension, Belize City, Belize TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon, the freehold property of ROBERTO ORELLANO. DATED this 13th day of December 2017 HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED 1 HYDE’S LANE, BELIZE CITY, BELIZE Phone: (501) 224-5644 Fax: (501) 223-0738 E-mail: foreclosures@hrcubelize.org

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SHARING CHRISTMAS IN OW EAST

Over the weekend the OW East PUP Executive, along with Santa, began visiting our neighborhoods to bring goodies, toys and gifts to the kids and their parents. The smiles on their faces, celebrating the birth of Christ & their excitement to meet Santa Claus was priceless.

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26 NOV

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ESPAÑOL

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THEBELIZE BELIZETIMES TIMES THE

2017 2017

Honduras | Oficialismo descarta repetir comicios; disturbios estallan de nuevo Por EFE y DPA / Honduras 18 de Diciembre de 2017 "Es inaceptable, no se pueden hacer unas nuevas elecciones, no lo permite el marco legal del país", dijo a periodistas Fernando Anduray, líder del Partido Nacional.

Las protestas son continuación de las iniciadas la noche del domingo, algunas con vandalismo, luego de que el TSE hizo la declaración oficial de los resultados de las elecciones generales del 26 de noviembre, los que no reconoce la Alianza de Oposición contra la Dictadura, cuyo candidato, Salvador Nasralla, asegura que le han hecho "fraude".

En Tegucigalpa los manifestantes han bloqueado varias salidas obstaculizando la circulación con piedras, quema de neumáticos y basura, mientras policías y militares intentan desalojarlos.

Las fuerzas del orden limpiaban hoy algunos bulevares de las barricadas dejadas anoche, algunas con contenedores de basura medianos atravesados en las vías.

En San Pedro Sula, la segunda ciudad más importante del país y la de mayor crecimiento industrial, anoche fueron quemados un banco, una oficina del edificio de los tribunales de justicia, un vehículo y varios negocios, de los que algunos fueron saqueados.

La ciudad hoy amaneció con sus salidas al norte, sur, este y oeste cerradas.

En algunos bulevares los manifestantes atravesaron furgones para evitar la circulación de vehículos, lo que ha obligado a centenares de personas a caminar largas distancias para llegar a su trabajo.

Una de las empresas de transporte interurbano entre Tegucigalpa y San Pedro Sula anunció que todas sus unidades entre las dos ciudades más importantes del país y otros destinos, estarán paralizadas hoy por las protestas violentas.

Muchos negocios también han anunciado que hoy permanecerán cerrados.

Medios locales también han informado de protestas en otras ciudades del centro, norte, occidente, oriente y sur del país, como parte del paro nacional al que convocó el sábado el coor-

Honduras amaneció este lunes con la ocupación violenta de carreteras que impiden la circulación de vehículos en importantes ciudades, en protesta porque el Tribunal Supremo Electoral (TSE) declaró el domingo nuevo presidente electo a Juan Orlando Hernández, actual gobernante del país, y que descarta repetir comicios, com lo aconseja la OEA.

mara vencedor de los comicios el domingo al actual presidente, el conservador Juan Orlando Hernández, desestimando las denuncias por fraude de la oposición, que instó a salir hoy a la calle para protestar.

"El único camino posible para que el vencedor sea el pueblo de Honduras es un nuevo llamado a elecciones generales, dentro del más estricto respeto al Estado de Derecho", dijo en un comunicado.

Nasralla partió de Tegucigalpa antes de que el TSE anunciara su veredicto. El candidato de la Alianza de Oposición contra la Dictadura denuncia adulteración de las papeletas de voto, violación de las actas

Los disturbios estallaron de nuevo en las calles de Tegucigalpa, Honduras.

dinador general de la Alianza de Oposición, el expresidente hondureño Manuel Zelaya.

El portavoz de la Policía Nacional, Jair Meza, dijo a periodistas que en algunos puntos de la capital los manifestantes son "desalojados" y pidió a la población que no participe en las protestas porque es la más afectada y que denuncien el teléfono 911 sobre acciones violentas que se estén registrando en el país.

El diputado Hari Dixon, de Partido Libertad y Refundación (Libre), quien participa en una de las tomas en Tegucigalpa, indicó que "el pueblo va a seguir defendiendo en las calles el triunfo de Salvador Nasralla".

Agregó que las protestas continuarán y que el domingo el TSE "le ha robado el triunfo" a Nasralla al declarar nuevo presidente

electo a Hernández, del gobernante Partido Nacional.

En la salida del norte de la capital hondureña, hacia las 8 horas las fuerzas del orden, en un intento por despejar la calle se enfrentaron con los manifestantes, a los que desalojaron lanzando gas lac-

rimógeno.

Pide repetir elecciones El candidato presidencial hondureño Salvador Nasralla acudió hoy a la sede de la Organización de Estados Americanos (OEA), en Washington, para denunciar el "fraude electoral" del que acusa a las autoridades de Honduras en los comicios del 26 de noviembre.

El secretario general de la OEA, Luis Almagro, pidió la víspera nuevas elecciones "ante la imposibilidad de determinar un ganador" en unos comicios que han desencadenado una grave crisis institucional en el país centroamericano y con al menos dos muertos en las protestas.

Almagro elevó su petición después de que el Tribunal Supremo Electoral (TSE) procla-

y vulneración del sistema de cómputo.

Presenta "pruebas de fraude" El candidato presidencial hondureño Salvador Nasralla denunció hoy ante la OEA, en Washington, un "fraude electoral" en las elecciones presidenciales del 26 de noviembre en Honduras y entregó al secretario general de la organización, Luis Almagro, lo que aseguró que son pruebas de ello.

Nasralla se reunió con Almagro un día después de que las autoridades electorales de Honduras proclamaran vencedor de los comicios al actual presidente, el conservador Juan Orlando Hernández, desestimando las denuncias por fraude que la oposición viene haciendo desde el día de las elecciones.

Almagro pidió el domingo por la noche la celebración de nuevos comicios en el país centroamericano "ante la imposibilidad de determinar un ganador". La Misión de Observación Electoral que la OEA envió a Honduras asegura que el proceso electoral estuvo marcado por las irregularidades y deficiencias, hasta el punto de calificarlo de "carente de integridad".

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THE THEBELIZE BELIZETIMES TIMES 2015

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EL NÚMERO DE MIGRANTES EN EL MUNDO SE DISPARÓ UN 49% EN LO QUE VA DEL SIGLO El número de migrantes se disparó un 49% desde el año 2000 y alcanzó los 258 millones en todo el mundo, según un informe que la ONU dio a conocer este lunes, coincidiendo con el Día Internacional de los Migrantes.

El jefe de Migraciones de la ONU, Bela Hovy, desveló en una conferencia que, pese a la abultada cifra, los migrantes solo representan un 3.4% de la población mundial, aunque la cifra oscila entre un 2% y un 40% en función del país, siendo EE. UU. (con 49.8 millones), el que más personas acoge.

Por EFE / EE. UU. 18 de Diciembre de 2017 El informe "The International Migration Report 2017" muestra que los migrantes contribuyeron, entre

La migración aumentó en este siglo en todo el mundo

2000 y 2015, a que la población de América del Norte creciera un 42% y la de Oceanía un 31%, y señala que si no fuese por la inmigración, la población en Europa hubiese menguado en ese mismo periodo.

En el 2017, el 74% de todos los migrantes estaban en edad de trabajar

(tenían entre 20 y 64 años), una cifra que contrasta con el 57% de la población general.

En Latinoamérica, el Caribe, África y Asia, el impacto neto de los flujos migratorios es negativo, aunque el impacto es "pequeño" comparado con otros cambios poblacionales, según el informe.

En algunos pequeños países en desarrollo, en cam-

INVESTIGAN FATAL ACCIDENTE DE TREN EN WASHINGTON QUE DEJÓ VARIOS MUERTOS Y HERIDOS Un tren se descarriló este lunes sobre una autopista en el estado de Washington -noroeste de Estados Unidos- dejando varios heridos y fallecidos.

Al menos dos vagones completamente fuera de la vía cayeron sobre la carretera, otro quedó colgando, piezas del tren quedaron regadas por doquier: son impactantes las imágenes de este accidente registrado a las 7.40 horas locales entre las ciudades de Tacoma y Olympia.

Por AFP 18 de Diciembre de 2017 Pic Biline: Un tren Amtrack 501 se descarriló y cayó sobre la autopista interestatal 5 cerca de Olympia, en el estado de Washington, Estados Unidos.

El portavoz del sheriff del condado de Pierce, Ed Troyer, dijo a periodistas que había varios fallecidos, pero no pudo precisar una cifra.

Medios locales indicaron que tres personas murieron.

"Es bastante espantoso", dijo Troyer, quien indicó que hubo además varios heridos y que entre las víctimas fatales no figuran conductores de la transitada autopista Interestatal 5 (I-5), que conecta Estados Unidos de norte sur por la costa oeste, desde la frontera con Canadá hasta la de México.

"Cuando llegamos a la escena era obvio que había muertos y heridos, y algunas personas pudieron salir del tren".

Los cuerpos de rescate instalaron tiendas de atención para coordinar las labores de traslado de heridos a hospitales locales.

"Habíamos pasado la ciudad de DuPont y parecía que íbamos a tomar una curva", indicó Chris Karnes, uno de los pasajeros, al canal KIRO-TV de CBS. "De repente escuchamos ruido de crujidos y sentimos que nos dirigíamos hacia una colina. Lo siguiente que sé es que éramos lanzados al frente de

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nuestros asientos, las ventanas se rompen, nos detenemos y hay agua. La gente gritaba".

Alta velocidad El tren, en el que viajaban 78 pasajeros y cinco tripulantes, cubría la ruta Seattle-Portland con nuevas locomotoras, más rápidas, tras la modernización de la vía férrea y los sistemas de señalización para permitir mayores velocidades.

Amtrak, la red estatal interurbana de trenes de pasajeros, informó en su página web que estos nuevos trenes -llamados Cascades- fueron diseñados para un servicio de "alta velocidad".

"Cuentan con una tecnología especial que usa la gravedad para inclinarse a través de las curvas mientras se mantiene la velocidad", explica.

El gobernador de Washington, Jay Inslee, escribió en Twitter que "el incidente de hoy en el condado de Pierce es una emergencia muy seria y en desarrollo" y dijo que los heridos "son nuestra principal prioridad y sé que los rescatistas están haciendo todo en su poder".

La cadena CNN informó que el presidente Donald Trump seguía de cerca la situación, citando a la secretaria de prensa Sarah Sanders.

La I-5 permanecerá cerrada por el resto del día, informó Brooke Bova, portavoz de la policía del estado.

"La investigación tomará varios días, la I-5 [estará cerrada] al menos por lo que resta del día".

bio, el efecto puede ser sustancial, sobre todo porque deja al país sin un importante número de adultos en edad de trabajar.

El número total de inmigrantes incluye 26 millones de refugiados o demandantes de asilo, que representan un 10% del total, y que, a diferencia del resto de migrantes, se concentran en su mayoría (84%) en países pobres o con rentas medias.

Piñera, el multimillonario que volverá a gobernar en Chile El magnate se preparó cuidadosamente durante los últimos cuatro años para volver al palacio presidencial de La Moneda Lunes, 18 diciembre 2017 Fue el primer presidente de derecha en Chile en casi 50 años y ahora volverá al poder. Sebastián Piñera ganó la segunda vuelta de este domingo al oficialista Alejandro Guillier y el próximo 11 de marzo volverá a recibir la banda presidencial de la socialista Michelle Bachelet.

Este magnate de 68 años se preparó cuidadosamente durante los últimos cuatro años para volver al palacio presidencial de La Moneda. Y hasta el 19 de noviembre, el día de la primera vuelta, parecía que nada ni nadie se lo impedirían.

Pero el 36,6% de los votos obtenidos en la primera vuelta electoral, muy por debajo de lo que auguraban las encuestas, lo desestabilizó hasta el punto de cometer gafes impropios en alguien que ha pasado cerca de 30 años en la lucha política y ha participado en tres campañas a la presidencia.

Como cuando dejó entrever que hubo fraude porque a "muchas personas" les habrían pasado papeletas de voto marcadas con los nombres de sus oponentes o cuando aseguró que muchos casos de niños transgénero "se corrigen con la edad", generando críticas y rechazo generalizado.

Pero nada de eso le impidió volver a ceñirse la banda presidencial tras ganar por casi nueve puntos de diferencia en la segunda vuelta de este domingo a Guillier, un resultado más holgado de lo esperado.

Para la segunda vuelta y en un intento de captar a un sector esquivo que votó por el cambio, dio un giro a algunos pilares de su programa político como la gratuidad de la enseñanza superior.

Tras sostener que "lo que cuesta dinero se aprecia más", ahora propuso mantener las ayudas que reciben cerca de 260.000 estudiantes universitarios y ampliarlas a los alumnos de formación profesional con menos recursos que ha empezado a introducir paulatinamente la socialista Michelle Bachelet durante su gobierno.

Seña de identidad de su campaña Durante su primer mandato (2010-2014) el semanario satírico The Clinic llevó a compilar las constantes metidas de patada de este ávido lector y apasionado por la historia.

No sabemos qué pensará su gran amigo el premio Nobel de Literatura Mario Vargas Llosa, quien al principio de la campaña se desplazó a Chile para darle su apoyo cuando le oye decir cosas como "oportunística", que lanzó en el último debate con su rival Alejandro Guillier el pasado lunes, haciendo las delicias de los cibernautas que la convirtieron en trending topic en las redes sociales.

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PUP Orange Walk South Standard Bearer Jose Abelardo Mai was on a tour of his area this week, accompanied by his friend from way, way North. The tour started in Blue Creek and ended in San Carlos with a bang!!!! A humble request from children - they want Santa to return in May!!

Lol. Merry Christmas to all the children especially those of the OW South Constituency!!!!

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The Fort George Executive Committee brought happiness to residents and smiles to the faces of the children this past week with a visit from Santa Claus bearing gifts.

It was a good time for all, including the Belize City team that dropped by to spend some quality time with residents for the Christmas. Merry Christmas to all Fort George residents and we look forward to big things in 2018.

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2017

REAL Good Governance Reform!

Changing the Status Quo For the People’s United Party to restore the people’s confidence in any government after three terms of an abusive, corrupt and incompetent UDP, it must be serious about good governance reform. The Barrow administration has been the worst in history, allowing no REAL oversight and giving UDP Ministers powers which led to gross irregularities and abuses of process and people. The new People’s United Party government will do things differently. We will give power back to the people of the country who will elect us to represent them.

We WILL: PUT POLITICS AND MINISTERIAL POWER IN THEIR PROPER PLACES: We will immediately strengthen the Integrity Commission, providing the necessary funds for its Secretariat to fulfil its important legal, auditing and investigative roles free from any undue political influence.

Monitor the conduct and performance of Government Ministers and all elected officials in public life to ensure their “honourable” exercise of duties and responsibilities, and to prevent any behavior that can bring disrepute and shame to our nation, to our government and/or to our Party. Such embarrassing behavior will lead to their immediate expulsion from the Cabinet.

If a Minister is found breaking the law he/she will be subjected to the legal process and will face the consequences like any other person, including jail time. The rule of law means nothing if the laws do not apply equally to all.

We will limit the subjective authority of Ministers by removing the discretionary powers and reducing the need for letters from Ministers for everything. Presently, letters from Ministers are needed for recruitment to the Police and the Belize Defense Force, a hitherto unheard of thing. Public officers will be made to do their job, without fear or favour, and punishment will be swift for incompetence and/or corruption.

WE WILL: STRENGTHEN CHECKS AND BALANCES: We will reconstitute the Public Accounts Committee for the effective participation of the Social Partners in the Senate so as to ensure its proper role in overseeing the sound and prudent management of public revenues and expenditures approved in the Budget.

We will strengthen the capacities, allocate the appropriate resources and ensure the autonomy of the offices of the Auditor General, the Contractor General, the Ombudsman, and the Integrity Commission to better fulfil their technical mandates and provide the appropriate support to the oversight responsibilities of the Public Accounts Committee and other oversight committees.

WE WILL ENABLE: An EMPOWERED LEGISLATURE: The PUP will improve legislative governance by providing greater oversight by the National Assembly with respect to the work of the House Committees. We WILL establish Standing Senate Committees that will have the authority to conduct inquiries into any and all matters with a view to advancing the cause of nation-building.

WE WILL RESTORE: EFFECTIVE AND EFFICIENT PUBLIC SERVICE: We will take immediate steps to restore the autonomy of the Public Service (establish clear boundaries between the political directorate and the public service) and Public Service Commission to re-establish integrity and impartiality in the recruiting, training, evaluating and disciplining processes, and

We will introduce the necessary legislation with appropriate measures to protect whistle blowers and witnesses involved in corruption cases and to increase the penalties for acts of corruption and public authority abuses.

The PUP will revert to having Permanent Secretaries (Senior Career Public Officers) as the accounting officers of the specific Ministry/ Ministries.

WE WILL CREATE A: SEPARATION OF POWERS: All Judges and Magistrates of the Court will be employed with security of tenure. The PUP will establish sound systems and good practices for recruitment of all officers of the Court and will hold them responsible for the efficient administration of justice and to ensure the separation of powers of the state as clearly stipulated in the Constitution: Cease and desist from the public badgering and coercing of the judiciary by the Prime Minister and the Cabinet The Director of Public Prosecution will also be given security of tenure and the Department of Public Prosecution will be given the necessary resources to ensure that it complements the work of the Police to increase the rate of successful prosecution, particularly in murder cases WE WILL DELIVER: ELECTION REFORM: Within the first year of office we will present legislation to regulate campaign spending. We will also propose and enact legislation to limit campaigning up to the day before elections.

On Election Day all campaigning, paraphernalia, advertising etc. will not be allowed as it is done in other Caribbean countries.

We will insist, by any means necessary, that the UDP Government comply with the rule of law and conduct nationwide re-registration in 2017. The recent findings of 700 pages of unadulterated corruption in the Immigration Department lay bare for all to see the untold numbers of foreigners who received Belizean nationality by fraudulent means with the consequence being that these new fraudsters can and do vote in municipal and general elections, deciding for Belizeans who should be their government.

Implement a fixed date for general elections similar to that of municipal elections Implement a transparent redistricting exercise, free from any appearance of political manipulation, with the goal being a fair representation of the public Introduce campaign financing legislation Introduce an independent Elections & Boundaries Commission that shall be free from political interference with a Chairman who is appointed in a similar fashion as the DPP and Auditor-General, so he or she can be autonomous and free from the perception of governmental control.

I, John Briceño, as head of the next Government along with my Cabinet and together with the National Legislature, pledge to lead this transformation, motivated by the will of the people. In this noble path, we are guided by the philosophy of our Founding Father, the Right Hon. George Price, whose dynamic concept of a Peaceful, Constructive Revolution empowers us to confidently chart this way forward to a better future for all Belizeans.

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MOVE

This weekend the PUP Pickstock Committee, along with Anthony Mahler and the dynamic Belize City team shared the love with residents of Pickstock at a massive Christmas party. It's all about serving the people and letting them know that the PUP is all about LOVE. Merry Christmas to all residents of Pickstock. Big things happening in 2018.

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SAGICOR FINANCIAL CORPORATION LIMITED PRESS STATEMENT The Board and Management of Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited (Sagicor) noted with concern, the article published in the BARBADOS TODAY on Monday, December 18th, 2017 and wish to make the following statement in the interest of our many and various stakeholders: • • • •

•

Sagicor is a well governed, financially strong international financial institution. Our total assets at September 30th 2017 stood at US $6.8 billion with capital of US $1.3 billion.

We operate in 21 countries in the Caribbean, Latin America and the United States and are actively regulated by all of the regulators in these countries. We are in good standing in each of these jurisdictions.

Sagicor is listed on the Barbados Stock Exchange, the Trinidad & Tobago Stock Exchange and the London Stock Exchange. We fully comply with the rigorous requirements of these exchanges.

While there are no uniformed capital standards for the Caribbean, Sagicor has voluntarily adopted the Canadian international capital standard, “Minimum Continuing Capital and Surplus Requirements” (MCCSR), and has been following this standard since 1991. The MCCSR seeks to demonstrate to policyholders and shareholders the capital strength of the company, as a measure of its ability to meet its long-term obligations. Canadian regulators expect insurance companies to maintain an MCCSR ratio of 150% and Sagicor has consistently maintained a ratio above 175%. As at the end of September 30th 2017 our MCCSR Ratio was 304%.

Sagicor is rated on an annual basis by AM Best, Standard and Poor’s Global Ratings, and Fitch Ratings. We have been rated by AM Best since 1998, S&P since 2006 and Fitch since 2015. These ratings are an independent measure of our financial strength. The current ratings are as follows: o AM Best “A-“ Excellent o S&P BB- stable o Fitch B stable The ratings are assigned after a comprehensive and independent review. We encourage readers to view these independent reviews on our Sagicor website (www.Sagicor.com) or alternatively on the websites of the rating agencies: www.amBest.com, www.StandardandPoors.com and www.fitchRatings.com.

•

Sagicor is a publicly listed company with over 36,000 shareholders. We publish quarterly financial results and audited annual financial statements that are subjected to external audit every year by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). These financial statements are delivered to and approved by our shareholders at our annual general meetings. In addition, because Sagicor is listed on the London Stock Exchange, PwC’s audit of Sagicor has periodically been subjected to further independent review from time to time.

•

Sagicor is therefore, one of the most highly and actively regulated financial institutions in the Caribbean. While there are no provisions for Group Regulations in the region, Sagicor has always treated the Barbados Financial Services Commission (FSC) as our Home Regulator and has an open and transparent relationship with the FSC. We frequently share Group wide information with all regulators and have met with the Caribbean College of over 100 Regulators on more than one occasion to update them on the Sagicor Group’s strategy.

We, therefore, find it grossly inaccurate and indeed recklessly careless that an article or a report can be published to suggest that Sagicor is an under-regulated financial institution. This assertion is not supported by the facts as all can see from our frequent and various public disclosures. We are a large company by Caribbean standards, but we are a wellgoverned, successful, solid institution. We would like to assure our policyholders, shareholders and customers of our financial strength. We remain committed to delivering quality products and services to our customers and competitive returns to our stakeholders.

On behalf of the Board of Directors: Stephen McNamara

Dodridge Miller

Chairman

President & CEO

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2017

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One Vision…One People BILL OF RIGHTS The People’s United Party wants to share its vision with the Belizean people. It is rooted in a philosophy that goes back to the Father of our Nation the Right Hon. George Price. Mr. Price always believed ours was a work in progress; he led a revolution that is at its core peaceful, always constructive, progressive and uniquely Belizean.

These values remain true today and form a part of our PUP Creed. We are committed to the protection of our territorial sovereignty. We cannot, and will not risk even an inch of our beloved country, from the Rio Hondo to the Sarstoon. And we are committed to an accessible, fair and independent justice system and the rule of law in Belize.

The PUP will always seek to achieve social, economic and environmental justice. It is a commitment to the socio-economic improvement of all Belizeans. Our plan is to rid Belize of poverty. To the PUP, poverty is an ugly scar on our nation’s collective conscience, and no amount of cosmetic surgery can paste over the suffering of close to half of our people, most of them women and children, who live on less than ten dollars per day.

This is not only a task for governments. We all have a stake in this enterprise, but government must LEAD and bold leaders must show that they truly care. For us the task ahead is clear - to build a Belize that works for everyone, so that every Belizean should come to expect five things. This vision, this determination, has created what we call our BELIZEAN BILL OF RIGHTS. FIRST - Every Belizean should have access to a piece of land. With land we immediately create opportunities for upliftment and personal growth.

SECOND - Every Belizean should be able to own a decent home. The 17th Century Jurist and politician Edward Coke in speaking on human rights said: “A man’s home is his castle.” Every Belizean in 2017 should expect such an entitlement whether they live on Bocotora Street or on Seashore Drive.

THIRD - Every Belizean should be given the chance to go to school from pre-school to junior college. We have to make education free from pre-kinder to Junior College. If we will give our young people a chance at success, it must start with a good education.

FOURTH – Accessibility to quality basic health care is critical, which means every Belizean should be enrolled in the National Health Insurance Program. If we can invest 42 million dollars in a basketball stadium, then we should be able to provide basic health services to all.

FIFTH and most important, the driving force behind it all is JOBS - good jobs that can lead to meaningful careers; jobs that will give Belizeans a chance for personal growth and prosperity and provide a hand up for those at the very bottom of the economic ladder.

If we do these things, if we create a fair and just society, if we build on these principles we will then be able to change people’s lives and together we will rid our shores of the scourge that is poverty.

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2017

STATURORY NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE ESTATE of LESTER ALFRED BULL a.k.a. LESTER BULL Deceased of Placencia Village, Stann Creek District, Belize NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to Section 36 of the Administration of Estates Act Chapter 197 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2000, that all creditors having any claims or demands upon or against the Estate of LESTER ALFRED BULL a.k.a. LESTER BULL, deceased, late of Placencia Village, Stann Creek District, Belize who died on the 20th day of May, 2013 and in whose estate Grant of Administration With The Will Annexed has been granted to WAYNE ANTHONY PIPER of # 91 North Front Street, Belize City, Belize, the lawful Attorney of COLIN BULL of # 44745 Rodin Avenue, Lancaster, California 93535 U.S.A., on or before the expiration of three months from the first publication hereof AND NOTICE IS ALASO HEREBY GIVEN that at the expiration of the said three months the said WAYNE ANTHONY PIPER shall proceed to distribute the assets of the said LESTER ALFRED BULL a.k.a. LESTER BULL deceased, amongst the beneficiaries entitled thereto, having regard only to claims and the beneficiaries entitled thereto, having regards only to claims and the beneficiaries entitled thereto, having regard only to claims and demands of which shall then have had notice.

DATED this 6th day of December 2017

Punta Gorda Town Council

MAYOR

CARLOS GALVEZ

COUNCILLOR

COUNCILLOR

ARNOLD WILLIAMS

RAIMUNDO NORALES

7 VOTE MA RC H

MUSA & BALDERAMOS Attorneys-at-Law for WAYNE ANTHONY PIPER Administrator With The Will Annexed In the Estate of Lester Alfred Bull a.k.a.

Lester Bull

2018

COUNCILLOR

LUANA HINES

COUNCILLOR

COUNCILLOR

MOSES CAL

MALCOLM GALVEZ

COUNCILLOR

ROBERTO VIAREZ

"Putting the People First"

24 DEC

2017

THE BELIZE TIMES

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICES Notice is hereby given that Elizabeth Young is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at “Nu Fender’s ”, located at # 43 Handy Side Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Fuel Logistics Ltd. is applying for a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “Fuel Logistics Limited”, located on Vernon Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Rhea Enumberables Landero is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at “Khloe’s Grocery Shop”, located at # 16 New Road, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Fuel Logistics Ltd. is applying for a Convenience Store Liquor Lincense Liquor License to be operated at “Fuel Logistics Ltd. “, located on Central American Blvd;, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Xiaonuan Su is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “Yummy 2 Go”, located at 2 ½ Mls. Philip Goldson Highway, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Trecia Bradley is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at “Mel’s Place”, located at 318 Mahogany Heights, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given Javier Itza is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Javier Itza Shop”, located on Tapir Street, San Jose Succotz, Cayo District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Francine August is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “The Wata Hole Cool Spot”, located at Miles 26 ½ Biscayne Village , Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Weibo Liang is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Sky Blue Shop”, located at # 34 King Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Laura Lynn Thompson is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at “The West Lizard Bar I”, located at # 1 Fort Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Huizhen Liang is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Long Lucky Shop”, located at # 85 West Canal, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Laura Lynn Thompson is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at “The West Lizard Bar II”, located at # 1 Fort Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that James Young is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at “Laker’s Cool Spot”, located at # 42 Lawrence Avenue, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Maria Esperanza Gonzalez is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at “Zee’s Grocery”, located at # 4252 Croton Lane, , Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Ya Hui Chen is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “R.A. Shop”, located at # 275 Apollo Street, Belama Phase III, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Cai Juan Chen is applying for a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “New Bridge Restaurant”, located at # 33 North Front Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Otto Edgar Cattouse is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at “Faron Sports Bar”, located at # 11 Hopkins Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Kevin Bowen is applying for a Night Club Liquor License to be operated at “Hour Bar”, located on Newtown Barracks, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Christina Solis is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at “Double Deuce”, located in Maskal Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Hoingbin He is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at “Cooking Master”, located at # 2136 A. St. Thomas Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Xiye Zhao is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “C&K Supermarket”, located at # 6482 Mahogany Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Jun Yi Zheng is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at “Dragon Palace”, located at # 61 Front Street, Caye Caulker Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Salvador Luis Marin is applying for a Night Club Liquor License to be operated at “I & I Reggae Bar”, located in Caye Caulker Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Shu Ming Chen is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Marlboro Shop”, located at # 34 Freetown Road, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Neelam Israni is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Sony Store”, located on San Antonio Road, Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

31 Notice is hereby given that Sarita Blanco is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “L & E Restaurant”, located in San Estevan Village, Orange Walk District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Andrei Alamilla is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “Come N’ Dine”, located in Chan Pine Ridge Cut Off, Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Andrei Alamilla is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at “Come N’ Dine”, located in Chan Pine Ridge Cut Off, Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Margarita Blanco is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at “Maggie’s Mini Shop”, located in Yo Creek Village, Orange Walk District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Alcires Chin is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at “The Price is Right”, located in Guinea Grass Village, Orange Walk District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Alcires Chin is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “Malibu Restaurant”, located in Guinea Grass Village, Orange Walk District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Oscar Adrian Orellana is applying for a Night Club Liquor License to be operated at “Infinity Pub & Lounge”, located at # 33 San Francisco Street, Orange Walk District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

32

THE BELIZE TIMES

24 DEC

2017