Belize Times January 6, 2019- Fireworks And Bullets!

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The Belize Times

Established 1957

6 JANUARY 2019 | ISSUE NO: 5128

The Truth Shall Make You Free

www.belizetimes.biz | $1.00

FIREWORKS AND BULLETS! Five Murders within 18 hours of New Year’s Day

Howard Coleman Belize City: Thursday 3rd January 2019 Within less than 24 hours into the New Year, five Belizeans have been slaughtered in gross acts of violence.

The first victim has been identified

Anita Pineda

Joseph Babb

as Howard Coleman, 58.

The Lucky Strike villager was at home around 5 a.m. when a man identified as Giovannie Jones hacked him to death with a machete.

Police say that Jones took a

woman to Coleman’s house, but the woman asked him to leave the premises.

However, Jones insisted he would stay although Coleman also demanded that he leave.

MOTHER ACCUSES THE COROZAL

HOSPITAL FOR THE DEATH OF HER BABY

POLICE OFFICERS SUSPENDED FOR BRUTALITY

Preston Reynolds The two men subsequently had a physical altercation which took a turn for the worst when

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6 JAN

THE BELIZE TIMES

FIREWORKS AND BULLETS!

Continued from page 1 Jones followed him outside the house with a machete.

Thereafter he allegedly raped the woman.

Later that morning the body of a Hispanic man was pulled out of the Belize River near Blackman Eddy Village in the Cayo District.

As we go to press the man is yet to be identified.

According to police, a post mortem examination revealed that he died from manual strangulation.

Police are yet to determine his nationality or where he was killed before being located.

Sometime around 4 p.m. another man lost his life.

He has been identified as reputed Backa-Lands Crips Boss, Joseph Babb, 21.

He had been socializing with friends near a shop on Blue Marlin Drive when an armed assailant emerged and opened fire.

He tried to run for his life, but he was pursued and killed on the scene.

Police have indicated that he was not killed by a rival gang and so it is suspected that he was killed by his own associates.

The fourth victim was a woman who lost her life in a domestic dispute.

She has been identified as Anita Pineda, 34.

Sometime around 6 p.m. the mother of three was visiting her friend’s house in the Kontiki area of San Ignacio.

However, before she could make it inside, she was ambushed by her

ex-common-law husband, Ruben Cassasola.

He reportedly grabbed her and began to stab her multiple times in front of her mother.

And the fifth murder victim has been identified as Preston Reynolds, 22.

Sometime around 8 p.m. he was riding his bicycle in the Jane Usher Boulevard area when he was ambushed by gunmen who shot him multiple times.

He tried to run into some nearby bushes but was pursued by his attackers.

Police say that hours before his demise he had been involved in a misunderstanding with someone.

Despite this New Year’s bloodbath, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in the Ministry of National Security called a press conference to powder up the situation.

In other words he indicated that the lost of five lives in one day was not a matter for public concern.

He then went on to defend the crime fighting strategies implemented last year. We note that last year ended with 143 murders, only 2 short of tying the record breaking 145 murders in 2012.

He also claimed that this year the Belize Police Department would be reorganized. We have seen anti-gang legislation, new police units and even a state of emergency activated but these have not stopped the bloodbath.

And so at this newspaper we are doubtful that these new strategies will serve to address the root causes of crime.

MOTHER ACCUSES THE COROZAL

HOSPITAL FOR THE DEATH OF HER BABY Belize City: Wednesday 2nd January 2019 Leah Miller, the mother of a three month-old baby boy boy is accusing the Corozal Hospital for the untimely death of her baby boy.

Ms Miller says she took her 11-week-old baby to the hospital for urgent medical treatment on New Year’s Eve because he suddenly developed diarrhoea and was vomiting excessively. She claims that was not attended to; instead, she was referred to a nearby clinic outside the medical compound.

The baby was rushed to the hospital emergency ward at around 6:30 and was forced to wait for two hours to see the doctor. The nurse in the reception

United States

area that the Doctor on call was absent, and if she could not wait, then there was a clinic near-by.

It was 8:45 pm when she was called in just to wait for another 15 minutes before the doctor took the baby to the observation room where he instructed the nurse to put the baby on drips because the baby did not look good, but they could not locate a suitable vein, so she had to wait for another while. Fifteen minutes later, the baby was rushed to the trauma room but 30 minutes later the baby died. Ms Miller is seeking legal advice to deal with this negligence on the part of the Corozal hospital.

on page 31 ExchangeContinued rate (USD): $ 0.50 of One Belize Dollar

Barbados (BBD): $ 1.00

Eastern Caribbean Euro (XCD):$ 1.35 (EUR) : $ 0.46

2019

POLICE OFFICERS SUSPENDED FOR BRUTALITY Belize City: Thursday 3rd January 2019 Two police officers attached to the San Pedro formation have been placed on seven-day suspension pending criminal and internal police investigations.

These cops have been identified as PC No. 1919 Samir Medina and PC No.2287 Tyrell Rowley.

On the night of January 1st, they were caught on footage now gone viral brandishing a weapon and using excessive force on men they had already subdued and had pinned to the ground.

The footage showed one of the officers clubbing and kicking Jamir Leal, who had already been detained and appeared unconscious.

The other two men being manhandled were his brothers.

They were all beaten publicly near the Playa Bar and Grill in the Boca Del Rio area of San Pedro Town.

According to investigators, the officers in question were responding to bar brawl involving Leal, but things took a turn for the worst after he allegedly struck one of the officers.

According to Acting Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams, the conduct depicted by these lawmen is not what is expected of officers.

“And so, the Belize Police Department condemns the action of those two officers in its strongest terms, and we are going to ensure that we do what needs to be done to correct the problem,” he asserted.

This incident had been immediately condemned by the Human Rights Commission in a statement

which read, “The footage is deeply disturbing and appears to be a disciplinable cause for action by the professional standards branch.”

‘This is from all appearances and angles a case of excessive force,” the statement added.

The commission further indicated that it would have allowed the internal disciplinary infrastructure of the Belize Police Department the opportunity to do its due diligence before it further intervened.

While the Commission condemned the police officers, it also condemned a civilian who was also caught on footage attacking one of the subdued men.

The Commission noted that this person may be subjected to criminal and civil charges.

“The Commission is disappointed in the accompanying officers who do not appear to intervene nor condemn the vicious kick to the face delivered to the civilian,” the statement said.

The Commission ended its statement by pointing out that despite the officers’ excessive use of force, if the victim of their assault has committed any offences, they should still be held liable.

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6 JAN

2019

THE BELIZE TIMES

EDITORIAL

BITTER FRUIT

T

03 3

en Español

LA FRUTA AMARGA

E

he New Year started with a bang and not necessarily those made by the cheerful sounds of fireworks. Instead the beginning of the year was marred by gun shots, femicide, murder and mayhem. By the looks of it 2019 will be a year to remember in Belize, and most certainly not as a “tranquil haven”.

The blood of our sons and daughters should no longer be allowed to “hallow the sod” with such impunity.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Chester Williams made his usual appearance regurgitating his now standard insipid reassurances that he will “do what needs to be done.” This in regards to the video showing glaring disregard for human rights. We remind Deputy Commissioner Williams that the Police Department has a rather scandalous reputation in regards to human rights violations. In the Report on Human Rights practices tabled by the US Department of State in 2016 it is highlighted that “the most important human rights abuses in Belize included the use of excessive force by security forces (especially the police.)”

The report also said that the Government of Belize (GOB) “ignored reports of police abuse, delayed action, failed to take disciplinary action, or transferred accused officers to other areas within their department.”

We would like to jog the strangely selective memory of the Deputy Commissioner with the name of Edwin Ixpatac who died in Police Custody. The 30 year old was reportedly beaten by officers on duty. We remind you that reports of police brutality occur countrywide but in the town of San Pedro in August of 2016

l año nuevo comenzó de forma explosiva y no necesariamente por los sonidos alegres de los fuegos artificiales. En su lugar, el comienzo del año fue marcado por disparos de armas, feminicidio, asesinato y caos total. Por el aspecto de la misma el 2019 será un año para recordar en Belice, y ciertamente no como un “paraíso tranquilo”. La sangre de nuestros hijos e hijas ya no debería permitirse “honrar nuestra tierra” con tal impunidad.

El Comisionado Adjunto de policía Chester Williams hizo su aparición habitual regurgitando sus ahora insípidos consuelos de que él “hará lo que sea necesario”. Esto, en lo que respecta al vídeo que muestra un atropello flagrante de los derechos humanos. Le recordamos al Comisionado Adjunto Williams que el Departamento de Policía tiene una reputación bastante escandalosa en lo que respecta a las violaciones de los derechos humanos. En el informe sobre las prácticas de derechos humanos presentado por el Departamento de Estado de los Estados Unidos en 2016 se subraya que “los abusos de derechos humanos más importantes en Belice incluyeron el uso de la fuerza excesiva por parte de las fuerzas de seguridad (especialmente la policía)”. El informe también dijo que el Gobierno de Belice (GOB por sus siglas en inglés) “ignoró los informes de abuso policial, retrasó la adopción de medidas, no pudo tomar medidas disciplinarias y transfirió a los oficiales acusados a otras áreas dentro de su departamento”.

Nos gustaría refrescarle la memoria extrañamente selectiva del Comisionado Adjunto con el nombre de Edwin Ixpatac, quien murió bajo custodia policial. Según informes, los oficiales de turno golpearon a este hombre de 30 años de edad. Le recordamos que los informes de brutalidad policial ocurren en todo el país y que en la ciudad de San Pedro en agosto de 2016 Allen Delroy Martínez se quejó de abuso por la policía.

Continued on page 4

Continued on page 4

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EDITORIAL

BITTER FRUIT

Continued from page 3

6 JAN

THE BELIZE TIMES

Allen Delroy Martinez complained of abuse by police. Let us also highlight the incident in April 2017 that led to no less than 5 residents of that same town to be injured including a female resident beaten savagely by a plain clothes policeman. Video footage of that melee show Police Officers discharging as many as fourteen live rounds in public. In many of these cases police officers are placed on interdiction, which means that they continue to receive a portion of their salary while they are suspended from active duty while investigations are ongoing.

The Police Department is mired in PR inferno, when rogue police are not busy landing narco-planes they are out violating human rights in the most heinous displays. A favorite Proverb reminds us that “A promise is a comfort to a fool.” Belizeans are no fools and your empty words and promises hold no comfort for the families of those who have fallen victim to violence in the streets, the victims of femicide, and even less to the families of those victims who have suffered abuse at the hands of the Police.

The time for words has passed. The events unfolding require action not recycled rhetoric.

Investigation of these allegations must be swift, justice must not be delayed, criminal charges must be brought against the offenders and prosecution of these should be efficient and effective.

These police officers must be dismissed and never again be allowed to enter the public service.

Belizeans will settle for no less! Mathew 7:20 exhorts that “Therefore by their fruits you will know them.” We are now left to harvest the bitter fruit that this UDP Government has produced for Belize; increases in poverty, hunger, gender based violence, crime, murder, corruption, impunity, unemployment, and inflation!

en Español

2019

LA FRUTA AMARGA Continued from page 3

También debemos resaltar el incidente en abril 2017 que condujo a que no menos de 5 residentes de esa misma ciudad fueran lesionadas, incluyendo una mujer que fue golpeada salvajemente por un policía vestido de civil. Video metraje de ese tumulto muestra a miembros del cuerpo policial descargando hasta catorce disparos vivos en público. En muchos de estos casos, los policías son puestos en interdicción, lo que significa que continúan recibiendo una parte de su salario mientras están suspendidos del servicio activo mientras las investigaciones están en curso.

El Departamento de Policía está sumido en relaciones publicas infernales, cuando policías corruptos no están ocupados en el aterrizaje de narco-aviones, están violando los derechos humanos en exhibiciones atroces. Un proverbio favorito nos recuerda que “una promesa es un consuelo para un tonto”. Los beliceños no son tontos y sus palabras vacías y promesas no tienen consuelo para las familias de aquellos que han caído víctimas de la violencia en las calles, las víctimas del feminicidio, y menos aún a las familias de las víctimas que han sufrido abusos a manos de la policía.

El tiempo para las habladurías ha pasado.

Los eventos que se desarrollan, requieren acción no retórica reciclada. La investigación de estas acusaciones debe ser rápida, la justicia no debe retrasarse, los cargos penales deben ser presentados contra los delincuentes y el enjuiciamiento de estos debe ser eficiente y eficaz. Estos policías deben ser despedidos y nunca más se les debe permitir entrar en el servicio público. ¡Los Beliceños se conformarán con nada menos! Mateo 7:20 exhorta que “por lo tanto, por sus frutos los conocerán”. ¡Ahora sólo nos queda para cosechar el fruto amargo que este UDP Gobierno ha producido para Belice; el aumento de la pobreza, el hambre, la violencia de género, el asesinato, la corrupción, la impunidad, el desempleo y la inflación!

6 JAN

2019

05 5

THE BELIZE TIMES

2018…The Year in Review In January 2018 apart from the continued violent crimes one of which saw the gruesome murder of two teenage sisters who were chopped and killed in Toledo, the country got a rude awakening when documents surfaced alleging ridiculous and irresponsible spending at the PUC. Thousands of dollars were spent on travel for the chairman and other commissioners as well as several other unnamed expenses.

In February 2018 it came to our attention that Anthony Boots “Socks” Martinez had siphoned away a substantial amount of money where individuals were contracted for work they never did and were simply used to cash government vouchers, keep a small portion of it and allegedly hand over the rest to the Port Loyola King…

The entire thing wreaked of UDP continued corruption.

In March 2018, the murder count continued to grow. In a single instant four were shot dead in less than 24 hours. March also saw the PUP taking control of Corozal Town and Belize City Council while holding on to Dangriga with one Councillor and closing the gap in most of the other municipalities. It also saw the UDP using stealing the Municipal Elections from the voters in San Pedro.

In April 2018 the US State Department released its 2018 International Narcotics Control Strategy Report - and Belize was designated

as one of 22 major Illicit Drug Producing and Major Drug-Transit Countries. Belize was also designated as a Major Money Laundering Country.

Another black eye on the country as the Barrow Administration continued to demonstrate their inability to deal with crime locally and more so organized crime.

In May 2018, it came to light that Santander was selling White Sugar on the local market completely disregarding the terms of their license which requires that they manufacture sugar only for the export market. It became quite obvious to all that someone high up in Government most believe Mr Clean had given them the green light to do so.

In June of 2018, the Central Bank moved in on Choice Bank, revoking their banking license and placing the bank into Receivership. This was a microcosm of the major problems facing our off shore banks. The murder rate and violent crimes continued unabated as more and more mothers found themselves crying their children taken from them prematurely.

We also saw yet another hike in the Electricity Rates. Cost of living continued to sky rocket and poverty levels kept its upward trend.

In July 2018, the Re-registration campaign began in earnest. It became evident from the outset that the Elections and Boundaries Department was ill-prepared for this mass

re-registration. The department cannot be faulted really…they requested 20 million plus dollars to conduct the exercise but were given just under 8 million. The Barrow Administration once more proved their incompetence and irresponsibility by gravely under funding such a vital exercise which is so intricately linked to our Democracy.

In August 2018, 13 more Belizeans joined the murder count. We did have a breath of good news as the Belize National Women’s Volleyball team made history when they captured the Silver Medal in the Central American Volleyball Championship when they narrowly edged out Guatemala to give us all a reason to celebrate. In other good news, 11 year old Khalydia Velasquez a Dangriga resident became the youngest player to score in an official sanctioned FIFA international tournament. Khalydia scored one of four goals for the Belize Baby Jaguars when they defeated the Virgin Islands four to nil in the CONCACAF Girls Championship that was held in Bradenton, Florida.

On another sad note, it became clear that the Vital Statistics Unit which falls under the supervision of the Attorney General Ministry was another hot bed of corruption and incompetence. Thousands of Belizeans could not secure their necessary documentation due to the fact Continued on page 6

CARTOON

Prayer To The Holy Spirit O Holy Spirit, You who are the Fountainhead of all knowledge, Who Illuminate the path way which enables me to reach my goal. You Who shares your Divine gift permitting me to forgive and forget past insults and injustices, and Who are always at my side within reaching distance. I desire in this short supplication to thank You for all that You have done for me; and to assure You once more that I never want to be separated from You under any circumstances, no matter what the incentive. I want to be with You, I along with my loved ones, cradled in Your unending love.

Thank You for your never-failing kindness towards me and those I call my own.

(Prayer to be offered for three consecutive days: Faith in The Holy Spirit will cause Him to respond to your request no matter how difficult the problem might be. Publish prayer as soon as request has been Granted .)

Thank You Holy Spirit.

R.M.U.

06 6 2018…The Year in Review Continued from page 5 that their information was either lost or destroyed by rodents or insects.

The very first day of September 2018 saw three more vicious murders. While the police had to continue to deal with the spike in murders and violent crime Belizeans had to deal with the continued show of aggression and control of the Sarstoon by the Guatemalan armed forces. In the month of our Independence when George Price said not a BLADE of Grass, the PUP led the nation in demanding the Sarstoon Protocol that had been promised by the Barrow Government. It became clearer and clearer that Guatemala had in fact annexed the Sarstoon and this Incompetent UDP were at a loss as to what to do. Waste of Time Sedi Elrington continued to speak out of turn and further frustrate the already frustrated Belizean population.

In October 2018, the attack on women continued as Felina James was found dead. She had been viciously murdered and her body dumped. Faber and the BNTU were back at it over hardship and other allowances all wrapped up in what was called Proposal 22. The Dispute with Guatemala took even more prominence as the debate on whether or not Belize should take Guatemala’s Claim to the International Court of Justice for final resolution took center stage.

November 2018 saw the BNTU again take their fight with the Ministry to Belmopan but this time it was more so about the Crime Situation in the country. November also saw yet another increase in the cost of living. It also saw the coming into law of the new voter’s roll resulting in thousands of Belizeans being disenfranchised and now not being able to vote in any elections or the upcoming referendum.

Dec 2018 saw even more violence against women as the high profile disappearance of Anisha Young raised many eyebrows. The number of missing persons continued to rise in December and the inadequacy of the GOB to address the crime situation became more and more evident.

Street sources say that Anisha’s boyfriend is well connected and is the nephew of a UDP Standard Bearer.

That speaks volume as to why his name was never disclosed by the police and his so called reputation is being so well protected. December also saw the announcement by the PUC that electricity rates were again going up as once more Belizeans would be made to bear the brunt of a Barrow and Spend UDP Government.

All in all, 2018 was a very difficult year for most Belizeans. Poverty, the Cost of living, the murder count, the price of fuel, the school dropouts, and the amount of drug plane landing were all in an upward trajectory.

The only hope for our nation is to get rid of the criminal organization which currently runs this country.

2019 is our year of RESISTANCE. We will not just sit back and take it anymore.

Basta…Enough is enough.

6 JAN

THE BELIZE TIMES

2019

Brutally chopped to death in Lucky Strike!

Belize City: Wednesday 2nd January 2019 New Year began with a loud bang, fireworks and bullets at midnight to bring in 2019 but a few hours later the carnage started leaving police investigators with a bloody string of 5 murders within 24 hours added to the already overloaded unsolved murders from 2018.

According to police, the first was recorded in Lucky Strike village which took the life of an elderly man identified as Howard Coleman.

According to Police investigation Coleman’s murder is related to a domestic situation involving a female and the now accused identified as Giovanni Jones. Police say Jones was at a female’ home when a misunderstanding started and Jones was told to leave the

house and allegedly raped her. This is an additional that is being investigated.

Coleman is a single man who does wood carving for a living.

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE

woman’s premises. Jones refused to leave which resulted in a fist fight with Coleman.

Witnesses say Coleman walked outside followed by Jones who inflicted several chop wounds to him.

Police say the female reported that Jones then went back inside the

Notice is hereby given that Shanna Lopez is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at ”Downtown Diner” located at # 27 Albert Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Geraldine Roca is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at ”P.J.’s Hideaway” located in Willow’s Bank Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

PUBLIC AUCTION SALE

BY ORDER OF THE CHARGEE HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED, a Licensed Public Auctioneer will sell on site the following property at the time as listed.

At No. 1316 Crown Cone Avenue, Belize City, Belize District on Wednesday, January 16, 2019 at 10:00a.m.

SCHEDULE ALL THAT piece or parcel of land comprising 444.4 square yards being Parcel 1316/1, Block 16 in the Caribbean Shores/Belize Registration Section situate at No. 1316 Crown Cone Avenue, Belize City, Belize District, Belize TOGETHER with a concrete bungalow house containing two bedrooms, two bathrooms, living room, dining room and kitchen the leasehold property of JEROME YOUNG DATED this 2nd day of January 2019

All sales are strictly cash and deemed final. For more information contact: HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED 1 HYDE’S LANE, BELIZE CITY, BELIZE Phone: (501) 224-5644 Fax: (501) 223-0738 Email: foreclosures@hrcubelize.org

6 JAN

2019

THE BELIZE TIMES

BELLY of the

BEAST

Welcome the PM Belizeans have been asked to assemble at the Phillip Goldson International Airport on January 5th to welcome a visiting dignitary – Prime Minister Dean Barrow. The purpose of his visit is not known, but it is expected that he will spend some time in Belmopan staring off into space, have cocktails with Cabinet members and if time permits, may even pay a courtesy call on his wife before jetting off again into the sunset. Please be on time, carrying placards and banners, because this dignitary has been known to vanish into thin air without warning, for prolonged periods of time. We understand that a photo of this little-seen fellow has been distributed so that those waiting to welcome him can identify him. We’ll see you there.

FIVE Murders That’s all we’re going to say about that. Five murders on New Year’s Day. According to the Police, 143 murders in 2018 – and you better believe they’ve fudged those numbers. Since the UDP took office, over 1300 Belizeans have died violently. Think about that for a little bit. In his New Year’s message, the Prime Minister couldn’t give a damn. He said what he says every year. We need better resources. We need better training. End of story. Not one of those bloodied bodies lying on the street means anything to the Prime Minister. He doesn’t understand grief. He doesn’t understand that marrow-deep pain from losing a loved one to violence. The Prime Minister can afford to be flippant and foolish. But karma never sleeps.

The media again!

We figure it is only a matter of time before the rotund Minister of Police, the man who will never be leader of the UDP or God forbid Prime Minister - John Saldivar comes in front of the country to blame the media for all the murders and crime this year. In 2012 when murders were at their highest, John Saldivar was Minister in charge of Police. Now in 2018 when murders are the second highest, John Saldivar is the Minister in charge of Police.

Doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out this one.

Missing: ComPol Whylie 2018 will without a doubt go down as the year in which the most persons went missing. Some of them turned up, and others were never seen again.

Latest reports to the Belize Times is that a missing person report has been filed for Commissioner of Police Allen Whylie. He was reportedly last seen fishing in a pond near his home in Lemonal. Nobody thought his disappearance strange because all Belizeans know that Whylie is never around when anything happens, and even when he is in the country, he spends all his time in the bush doing God knows what. But when he allegedly missed two dinners in a row – that man never misses dinner – the alarm went out. So Whylie will go down as the latest missing person. But there’s another problem, we hear. Nobody in the Police Department wants to go looking for Whylie. The Department has been asking for volunteers for the search team and nada. Oh well. Not like it’ll make that much of a difference one way or the other.

Missing: Patrick Faber Has anybody seen Patrick Faber? He’s been missing since he was told that he’ll never, never be leader of the UDP. Nobody’s been asking for him, but we at the Belize Times have a special place in our hearts for this guy. For some reason, he always comes to mind when we hear about domestic violence. This New Year’s Day, a man stabbed his common-law-wife to death – a tragic story. And of course, you’ll hear all the women in the UDP jump up and condemn domestic violence. But not one of them jumped up when Patrick’s girlfriend told Police how he punched her in the face and pulled her by the hair like a real sissy. Those people in the UDP have selective memory. But we don’t. And every time Patrick rears his women-beating head, we’ll be here to remind him.

Sugar Roads The Prime Minister stood up – well stood up as best he can with his old back – in the House late last year and announced that monies had already been allocated to fix the sugar roads in the north. But here’s the thing. According to a little bird in the Ministry of Finance, that money is being controlled by Gaspar Vega, who truth be told should never be allowed to handle government assets again in his life. And that little bird told us that Imer Hernandez – Gapi’s nephew – has been given some of that money and is fixing sugar roads in San Estevan, only where Gapi’s other nephews have canefields. Nothing surprising there. We’ve also heard that El Odio Aragon has been given some of the money, and they are also fixing just select sugar roads in the East. The UDP will pay for all their scurviness, because the cane-farmers of the north will not forget how they have been punished by this lame duck Prime Minister.

07 7

PUP condemns ‘criminal actions’ of the police in San Pedro Belize City: Wednesday, 2nd January 2019 During the last ten years Belizeans have witnessed that violent crime has taken the centre stage within our society and that the government has demonstrated no effort to formulate a strategy that would reduce the incidences of crime or enhance the participation of the citizenry to assist police with this growing problem. Instead, we have seen time and time again where elements of the police department are involved in crime from drug trafficking facilitating drug planes with the logistics of their landings, human trafficking, and contraband to mention a few.

The arrogance that the police has displayed during the last ten years is tied to the political manipulation and the recruitment policy which requires a recommendation from UDP ministers of government.

This arrogance has been displayed throughout the country with brutal force more so especially in remote areas and caught on video on at least two occasions in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye.

On the first occasion, police said they were going to investigate and punish these elements. However, that was just to appease growing pressure from the public. After they made arrests, police elements walked free because they claim the victims chose not to press charges.

This past weekend we saw a repeat of the same despicable act of policemen in San Pedro again where they brutalized a man kicking him in the head and other parts of his body while he laid defenseless on the ground. This act was also caught on video and posted on facebook which caused the public to react immediately to this kind of brutality in the execution of their duties. This also alarmed the Human rights Commission of Belize who sent out a release lamenting this kind of brutal force displayed by the police.

The People’s United Party (PUP) joins the rest of the nation and sent out a release condemning the outrageous, criminal actions of two Police Officers in San Pedro, captured on video footage. These police did not care that they were being recorded on camera; on various cell phones, one Police Officer brutally beat a man with a baton before kicking him in the face. That man, and others with him, had already been subdued, were on the ground and posed no threat whatsoever to the officers.

This type of brutality should not be allowed to continue like busi-

ness as usual within the Belize Police Department. There are far too many instances where officers have walked outside the law with impunity, and far too many instances where officers acting like criminals have been protected by the department. Enough is enough!

The PUP demands that the officers caught on camera be removed from duty and that criminal charges be levied on them.

The PUP additionally condemns the Barrow Administration for yet another year in which the general law-abiding citizenry were paralyzed by crime. The PUP said they have no doubt that using creative management of the statistics; the Minister of National Security will soon stand before the nation and claim that it was a wonderful year under his stewardship, and that crime is down.

He should ask the families of the 144 persons who were murdered if crime is down. He should ask the family of Anny Young if crime is down. He should ask the many, many Belizeans who were assaulted, if crime is down. He should ask the many businesspersons who were held at gunpoint, beaten and their establishments robbed if crime is down.

The year 2018 recorded 144 murders, and that is not counting those persons still missing, and those whose remains have not yet been identified. In his New Year’s address, the lame-duck Prime Minister donned a suitably sombre face as he recited his worn spiel of better administration and more resources and more training. Belizeans have heard this mombo jumbo year after year and yet, nothing ever changes.

As we mourn a New Year’s Day carnage which for the first time in history recorded five murders, we ask the Prime Minister once again to join with all social partners, including the Opposition to formulate a real, comprehensive crime-fighting strategy. This is not the time for grandstanding or for petty politicking. It is not the time for lame-duck administrating or for circus antics by a lame-duck Prime Minister. Let’s get it right, before more blood runs in our streets.

6 JAN

THE BELIZE TIMES

2019

Human Rights Commission condemn police Brutality

Belize City:Wednesday, January 2, 2019.

The Human Rights Commission of Belize has released a statement condemning the apparent police brutality which occurred on San Pedro that was videoed and posted on facebook. In the video which went viral causing condemnation, an officer was seen assaulting a detainee and even drawing his pistol at one point while a civilian was seen attacking the said detainee in front of the officers.

In their release, the Human Rights Commission of Belize said, “The footage is deeply disturbing and appears to be a disciplinable cause for action by the professional standards branch. This is, from all appearances and angles a case of excessive force.”

NOTICE CARILO INC. #142,948 (“the Company”)

Pursuant to Section 102 (8) of the International Business Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011, notice is hereby given that CARILO INC. has been dissolved as at 1st January, 2019 and has been struck off the Register of International Business Companies.

MACLACHLAN & DENNIN LIMITED Registered Agent

NOTICE DARIAM VENTURES INC. #157,614 (“the Company”)

Pursuant to Section 102 (8) of the International Business Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011, notice is hereby given that DARIAM VENTURES INC. has been dissolved as at 2nd January, 2019 and has been struck off the Register of International Business Companies.

CILTrust International Limited Registered Agent

NOTICE Serra Company Limited #143,652 (“the Company”)

Pursuant to Section 102 (8) of the International Business Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011, notice is hereby given that Serra Company Limited has been dissolved as at 1st January, 2019 and has been struck off the Register of International Business Companies.

CILTrust International Limited Registered Agent

The commission also noted that it would allow the internal disciplinary infrastructure of the Belize Police Department, to do their due diligence but requires that it does so in a timely fashion.

The release points to potential criminal and civil charges not only against the police in question but against a civilian who also attacked one of the detainees in front of the police officer.

“The Commission is disappointed in the accompanying officers who did nothing to intervene nor condemn the vicious kick in the face delivered to the civilian,” the statement added.

However, the commission points out that the action of these officers identified as police constables Samir Medina and Tyrell Rowley, “does not mitigate nor exclude any criminal acts committed by the victim of his assault before the incident, and any such action should be met with the full weight of the law.”

09 9 Government to Squeeze Lottery and Raffles promoters Belize City: Thursday, 3rd January 2019 The Lotteries Control Committee announced last Friday 28th of December that they would no longer be tolerating the widespread undocumented gambling of lotteries and raffles without the pertinent permit. They reminded Belizeans that according to the Lotteries Control Act, chapter 151 of the Laws of Belize, no person shall promote or conduct any lottery or raffle (any scheme for distribution of prizes by lot or chance), unless he obtains a licence or a letter of authorization for such a raffle in accordance with the Lotteries Control Act. Every person, who intends to promote or conduct any lottery or raffle, will now have to apply in writing to the lotteries’ committee addressing all applications to the secretary of the lotteries’ committee. All raffles sanctioned by the lotteries’ committee are given a reference number, and that number needs to be reproduced on all tickets and when being advertised.

Any violation to the Lotteries Control Act, and its regulation is an offence. Violators shall be liable on summary conviction in a court of law.

10 SPORTS

THE BELIZE TIMES TIMES THE BELIZE

Progresso FC wins OWFA 1st Division football champs Orange Walk, December 23, 2018 Progresso FC won the Orange Walk Football Association (OWFA) 1st Division championship: 4-2 in penalties against San Felipe FC at the Louisiana field in Orange Walk Town on Sunday, December 23.

It was a duel of champions, between the winners of this year’s Aragon Cup – Progresso FC, and the winners of the Guadalupe Dueck Cup – San Felipe FC. Progresso’s top striker Raheim Eagan, Ian Chi, Walter Robles, Nazim Aldana, Esmer Patt and Andir Chi gave it their all; and so did San Felipe’s goleadores Roy Cawich, Leonardo Velasquez, Aaron Dominguez, Luciano Murillo, Emmanuel Santos and Cesar Martinez.

But at the end of 90 minutes of regulation, the score remained nil-zip, and even after 30 minutes of overtime, sending the game into penalties.

In the shootout, Ian Chi, Jordi Catzim, Raheim Eagan and Enrique Castillo scored for Progresso, even though San Felipe’s goalie Dawinson Williams stopped Progresso’s 2nd kick. Two of San Felipe’s kickers missed, and only Wilson Velasquez and Aaron Dominguez scored for San Felipe: 4-2 final.

21 29 AUG JAN 6 JAN

2016 2017 2019

Champs OWFA 1st Divison - Progresso FC

Ian Chi scored Progresso FC 1st penalty

2nd place, San Felipe FC

FFB vice president Cruz Gamez and FFB General Secretary Earl Jones presented Progresso FC with the championship trophy, individual medals, and the $2,000 first prize, sponsored by FFB President - Sergio Chuc. San Felipe FC received the 2nd place trophy, and the 2nd prize, sponsored by Centaur Communications of Orange Walk.

Individual awards: Best Goalkeeper - Shawn Laing- Progresso FC Most Goals - Raheim Eagan- Progresso FC Best Coach - Jesus Eck - Progresso FC Most Valuable Player - Enrique Castillo - Progresso FC. Best Defense - Hipolito Andrade - San Felipe FC.

Barrack Road FC & Ladyville FC win thru to CYDP Peace Cup football finals Belize City, December 29, 2018 Barrack Road FC will challenge Ladyville FC in the Conscious Youth Development Program (CYDP) Peace Cup football championship finals on Saturday, January 5, after both squads won big in the semifinals at the MCC garden on Saturday.

In Game 1, Barrack Road FC qualified as the No. 2 seed with 4pts, after they drew 1-1 with Caesar Ridge FC, with Steven “Bredds” Baizar scoring first for Barrack Road in the 1st half, and Jose Martinez equalizing for Caesar Ridge with a header late in the 2nd half.

In Game 1 of their semifinals the week before, Barrack Road won 3-1 with goals by Steven Baizar, Harold Thompson and Ryan Simpson; after Dylan Flores had scored first for Caesar Ridge in the 11th minute.

In Game 2, Ladyville FC shut out Lucky Strike FC: 3-zip , with Sean Young scoring a hat trick.

In Game 1 of their series the week before, Laydville FC won 1-0 over Lucky Strike, again with a goal

by Sean Young.

Game 2 of the Finals is scheduled for Saturday, January 12, to be preceded by a consolation match for 3rd place between Caesar Ridge FC and Lucky Strike FC.

Ladyville FC Cordel Flores attacks Barrack Rd FC wins 4-2 Aggregate vs Caesar Ridge FC

No.1 seed Ladyville FC wins 2 semifinals

8 JAN MAY 31 26 JUL FEB 24 NOV 14 619 AUG JUN

2016 2017 2019

THE BELIZE TIMESTIMES THE BELIZE

11 SPORTS 11

Belmopan Bandits win 2018 PLB football championship

Belmopan, December 22, 2018 The Belmopan Bandits won back to back, taking the 2018-19 Premier League of Belize opening season football championship at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium on Saturday night, December 22. The Bandits won 5-4 on aggregate score against Verdes FC of Benque Viejo.

The Bandits came into Game 2 of the Finals, coasting on a 4-2 win in Game 1 of the Finals, with goals

by Kevin Guevarra Vicente in the 3rd minute, Georgie Welcome in the 16th and 64th minutes, and Trimayne “Pepper” Harris in the 73rd minute. Verdes’ Elroy Kuylen had rscored in the 45th minute, and Nahjib Guerra in the 68th minute.

In Game 2 of the Finals, Verdes tied the aggregate score at 4-4 when Desmond Wade scored in the 22nd minute, and Krisean Lopez scored

on a deflection off Trevor “Burger” Lennan’s back in the 34th minute. It looked like the Green Machine might win it; as they brought the pressure on Bandits, but a late goal

by Jerome “Jaro” James, on an assist by Georgie Welcome, clinched the Bandits’ championship.

The Bandits received the championship trophy and the $10,000 first prize from FFB Vice president Marlon Kuylen, who also presented the 2nd place trophy and the $5,000 2nd prize to Verdes FC Individual awards: Most Goals - Georgie Welcome – Bandits FC Golden Glove for

Desmond Wade finds back of net - Verdes 1-0

Best Goalkeeper - Shane Orio– Bandits FC Best Defender - Dalton Eiley – Bandits FC Best Midfielder - Kevin Guevara Vicente– Bandits FC Most Valuable Player regular season – Georgie Welcome – Bandits FC Most Valuable Player playoffs Jerome James– Bandits FC Best Coach - Kent Gabourel Sr – Bandits FC Best Young Player - Krisean Lopez – Verdes FC Fair Play award - Verdes FC Best Manager - Emiliano Rivero - San Pedro Pirates.

WESTERN QUEENS, MISFITS, RED HAWKS & VIPERS

win thru to BECOL/DigiNet basketball finals

San Ignacio, December 29, 2018 The Western Queens, Misfits, Red Hawks and Vipers win through to BECOL/DigiNet basketball championship finals, hosted by the Santa Elena/San Ignacio Basketball Association, which begin at the Sacred Heart College auditorium in San Ignacio on Thursday and Friday nights, January 3-4.

In the Female semifinals on Sunday afternoon, December 29, the Western Queens entered the Finals by eliminating the Trendsetters 40-35 in Game 3 of their series.

Yessica Prom led the Queens with 15pts, Jeneve Reynolds added 13pts, and Shirley Codd and Kathy Aquart put up 6pts apiece. Trendsetters’ Glenda Torres scored 14pts, Candice Neal and Kenya Brown posted 7pts apiece and Alison Mendez chipped in 3pts. In Game 2 last Friday, the Trendsetters had won 5429; while the Westerm Queens had dominated the Trendsetters: 40-31

Red Hawks - Aldo Garcia scored 10pts vs SHC

Bandits - Trevor Lennan heads the ball clear

in Game 1 of the series.

In the Under-17 semifinals on Sunday, the Misfits won through to finals by a 47-42 win to eliminate the Young Solar Roots in their best of 3 series. Nigel Ramirez scored 19pts, Mathildo Gordon posted 10pts, and Neville Martinez and Dreymon Casmino added 5pts apiece.

Solar Roots’ Kerwin Palacio scored 11pts, Lawrence Bigonia added 10pts, and Wilfredo Galvez Jr put up 6pts.

In Game 2 last Friday, the Misfits had tied the series by a 52-46 against Solar Roots, who had won Game 1: 47-44 against the Misfits on Thursday, December 20.

The Red Hawks also entered the U-17 Finals, by a 62-56 win against Sacred Heart College in Game 3 of their semifinals series last Friday night. Umelo Henderson hit 2 long treys to top-score with 23pts, Jaarul Smith posted 13pts, and Aldo Garcia added 10pts. SHC’s Kieran Dart scored 18pts, Alvan Gentle added 9pts, and Jaylen Lennan and Peter Jones posted 7pts apiece. In Game 1 on Friday, December 21, the Red Hawks had won 56-42 against Sacred Heart, tied the series by a 56-47 win in Game 2 of the semifinals on Sunday, December 23.

In the Senior semifinals last Friday, the Vipers won through to the finals, by a 69-49 win against Solar Roots.

Kyron “Tut” Molina led with 18pts, Johan “Cutto” Bermudez added 15pts, and Shank Fuller posted 14pts. Daniel “Buddy” Nolberto scored 13pts, and Joel Montejo put up 4pts. Solar Roots’ Rupert Brown scored 19pts, Earl “Bolo” Johnson posted 9pts, and Shelton Defour Jr and Stephen “Muerte” Williams put up 6pts apiece. Emani Enriquez netted 4pts. The Vipers had also won Game 1: 80-75 against Solar Roots on Sunday, December 22.

The Dream Team also won through to the finals by back to back wins against the Galen Eagles: 50-48 last Thursday, December 27 and 69-55 on Friday, December 21.

12

THE BELIZE TIMES

6 JAN

2019

Party Leader’s

Hon. John Briceño New Year’s Message

W

e greet you this New Year’s Day wishing for you and your family good health and prosperity in 2019. Each New Year comes with the hope for the betterment of all our lives.

So my wish for everyone is a 2019 filled with new possibilities where we can see personal growth and betterment for our families, communities, our nation and ourselves.

The challenges we faced last year were many. Our economy grew modestly, about one percent, which meant that we were unable to do anything to address increasing poverty and inequality in our nation. The cost of fuel remains too high and is affecting both producers and retailers. The high cost of fuel, which affects everything, caused the cost of basic goods and services to remain higher than the average Belizean could afford and government’s refusal to work with the productive sector is hurting our agro productive industry. Our farmers continue to struggle to get their products to the factory due the horrible conditions of our feeder roads.

The immediate effect of a slow or stagnant economy is a weak investment climate, no confidence and most important, increasing crime.

As it relates to the social state of our nation, once again we had a very violent year. To date there has been more than 140 murders and a government with no real solution to addressing or solving crime.

No more was this more evident than in September when the UDP Government declared a state of emergency on the people of South Side Belize City, a program, which did not result in any lasting peace in south side Belize City.

Today we have too many Belizeans missing, many assumed by their families to have died violent deaths and still many more living in fear due to violence.

While Belizeans continue to believe in the rule of law, this confidence continues to be eroded by a UDP administration that has been unable to secure convictions, unable to stem the increasing number of drug plans landing all over the country and unable to develop a long term plan to reduce crime.

Of special concern are the numbers of children who were

killed or suffered sexual assaults or abuse. Our children are precious and it is a national disgrace whenever one of our innocent children are killed or hurt.

As well too many Belizean women are living in abusive relationships and too many died violent deaths in 2018.

Violence against women and children is wrong and we condemn it in the strongest terms. A compassionate government cannot overlook these social ills for it is leading us on a fast track to a culture of barbarism.

In terms of governance, the disregard for the rule of law by this UDP administration has caused us to be condemned as a nation that engages in human trafficking. Corruption in government continues to see our international ranking reduced with respect to doing business in Belize and the Government continues to show disregard to the rule of law, changing legislation to suit its UDP Agenda.

Last June we saw the commencement of the re-registration exercise, which was supposed to improve the integrity of our electoral process. This exercise was mired in inefficiencies, especially at the vital statistics department, where even today the backlog of applications for birth certificates and other documents are causing thousands of Belizean voters to be disenfranchised.

This is occurring at a time when Belizeans are being asked to get all the facts so that they can participate in the upcoming Referendum on whether or not to submit Guatemala’s unfounded claim to the International Court of Justice. Government’s failure to show real leadership in this process has been of great concern to many Belizeans.

In our own Party I have been engaged in a listening tour where our Party supporters have been expressing grave concerns over the way the Government’s handling of the education campaign. Too few people have been provided with the facts in an objective way and as a result too many Belizeans remain unprepared to make an informed decision. Such an important decision should not proceed until every Belizean is given all the information in an objective manner so that they can proceed to the poll free from any fear of losing any part of what is rightfully Belizean territory.

So we start the New Year with much anxiety, our economy remains worryingly weak, our Government ineffective when it comes to real solutions and our people are living in fear because of the continued violence and

overall uncertainty.

In the PUP we believe that we can offer better than the poor leadership and performance we see from this divided UDP Administration. We also believe that the New Year gives us all an opportunity to start anew.

We will not give up, we will continue to work on our plans and prepare our Party to get back to Belmopan so we can work for the betterment of all our people. Already our city and town councils in Belize City, Orange Walk and Corozal are working hard every day to carry out their duties effectively, despite the obvious lack of corporation from the national government. All three councils remain committed and dedicated to working for the improvement of their respective city and towns.

This year our villages will hold elections, our leaders in the rural communities will work with supporters to seek candidates who care for the people in their villages, bring about positive change and work to improve the lives of our people living in the rural communities.

The PUP has a proud history of service to our nation. We see it as our duty to support those who stand up for Belize, this is why we supported the BNTU in their ongoing collective bargaining arrangements with government, we supported the efforts of the Public Service Union (PSU) to get back their Belmopan

Headquarters from the wrongful acquisition by the UDP Belmopan City Council and our parliamentarians in the House and Senate all worked hard to make the government accountable for their mismanagement and corruption. We will continue this important work.

My fellow Belizeans, 2019 finds us with many of the same challenges of the last year: too much poverty, too much corruption, too much incompetence in government and not enough solutions to the problems that hinder our national development. Still, we must not despair, together we can work to restore our national dignity, put people first again and build a Belize that works for everyone.

For sure serving as the Leader of the People’s United Party is a great privilege. This job gives me the chance to meet and work with some of the best and most talented people. It also challenges me to keep working harder with other leaders in our party to build a nation that is more caring and more about the improvement of all Belizeans, particularly the poorest among us. Once again I renew my commitment to work hard every day for our Party and nation.

May the blessings of our Creator be upon our nation and people and may the New Year 2019 be the year of prosperity for everyone.

Happy New Year!

6 JAN

2019

THE BELIZE TIMES

13 Mayor Kevin Bernard

Christmas Message Mayor of Belize City, His Lordship

Mayor Bernard Wagner New Year’s Message

Happy New Year Belize!

The end of the year is a time for introspection and retrospection. It is also a time to look forward in expectation and anticipation.

My team of councillors and I assumed office in March of this year, after a successful campaign in which we pledged that we would be all about the people. The genesis of this platform was derived following months of visiting with the residents of our fair City and listening to their concerns.

Belize City must be a place where justice reigns, hope lives and opportunities for a better life flourish. It is the crown jewel of the jewel that is the nation of Belize.

Of all our abundant natural resources, our people are its greatest, and we have embarked on enhancing and increasing the people’s capital.

Our first major task was to stabilize the finances of the Council given the fiscal malaise that we inherited. It took my team and I tremendous discipline to restore fiscal sanity and probity to the Council’s accounts, while re-imposing the prudential rules necessary that assures accountability, transparency and meaningful participation for good governance.

In this matter we did not just talk the talk but have walked the walk. We have squared the accounts, improved the practice and reported the results, but now we must continue to produce to ensure that when we too demit office, those who inherit the responsibilities of the Belize City Council will find order and direction.

Your Belize City Council has embarked on meeting and interacting with all our constituents and key stakeholders in the effort to make Belize City the greatest place on earth to live.

We are and will continue to lead major initiatives to enhance the business environment such as the super sale zone initiative and soon to come community fairs.

In keeping in line with our legal mandate, we will continue the work of repairing, restoring and building streets, drains and public access areas such as parks and playgrounds. We will continue the task of garbage collection and bushing of abandon properties.

On our social infrastructure platform, we will continue to support arts, culture and entertainment programs. Our Summer constituency basketball tournament and our Back to School backpack program has been a hit, these will continue.

Your Belize City Council will be vigilant, not just mindful, of the ways and means we can assist in increasing citizens’ security while deterring and reducing escalating violent crime.

We will continue to call on central government, and the governing agencies to include us around the table in the fight to reduce violence against our women and children.

As a city we must all be more concerned for the welfare of our brothers and sisters. We must offer more than just thoughts and prayers for those families who are undergoing the traumatic circumstances of having loved ones murdered or just missing.

I strongly urge those of you who know something, anything, that may lead to the discovery of criminal perpetuators or may assist in finding those who have disappeared, to step forward, step up and help us end this nightmare.

We must rally together as a community of well-meaning, like-minded citizens to fight this scourge. And we must continue to work together for our dream of a better Belize City, a place where we can eliminate brutal poverty, crushing crime, and lack of opportunity.

In the year 2019 we will continue working towards our vision of having a modern, clean and secure Belize City, one where civic pride, patriotism, unity and opportunity abounds for all.

We have worked and will continue to strive to make Belize City the social, political and economic capital of our nation, a place where businesses and families flourish.

Happy New Year Belize. May the abundant blessings of twenty nineteen fall on all.

My friends, it is that time again – the most wonderful time of the year, as the song says. And there is no other place I would want to be during this special time that here in Orange Walk with my family – my family at home and you, my community.

It has been a year of challenges and accomplishments, both personally and for the Orange Walk Town Council. Earlier in the year I was successful in taking my first step in serving the people of Orange Walk East in the House of Representatives. I will never forget the outpouring of love and support, and that will go down as one of the highlights of the year. The Council continued to work, as we always do, paving streets and doing the million other things which you rightfully demand and deserve. And through it all, we continued to forge unbreakable ties with you. We are grateful for your support and your confidence in us.

But while we celebrate our accomplishments, there was also tragedy which broke our hearts. On September 23rd, Alfredo Petillo and his children Mia, Jada and Kevawn were killed in a tragic fire which left three families homeless. That grief has certainly not left the families or this community, but there was beauty which emerged from those ashes. I watched with awe as the entire community came together with one love and one heart to assist the families in their time of need. It was tremendous, and I was humbled and proud in the midst of sadness.

I watched too as the community came together, selflessly, to help Leo Chan by saving the plastic covers from bottles. What an amazing initiative, where 1000 plastic covers translates into one chemotherapy session for a child. I understand that Leo took his last chemotherapy session today and all is looking well. We continue to pray for him and all those who are ill.

So there has been tragedy – unspeakable tragedy – but because we stood together and stood strong as a community we rose from the ashes. There have been trials and tribulations and heartbreak, but when we stand together as a community, as one people, we can get past anything.

And that is my simple message this Christmas – a message of love, community, fellowship and caring. We are a family, regardless of our differences. And when it has been important, we have put aside those differences to lend a hand to our fallen brothers and sisters. And that is as it should be. All the time.

From my home to yours and my family to yours, I wish you every blessing and peace this season can bring, and joy to you and yours as we prepare to welcome in 2019.

Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year.

14

6 JAN

THE BELIZE TIMES

MY PERSPECTIVE

By Dolores Balderamos Garcia

A FITTING TRIBUTE

A Happy and Blessed New Year 2019 to all !! May this year be a good one, and may it bring good things and success to everyone.

Last December saw the passing of Miss Jane, as she is fondly known to all Belizeans. After one hundred and one years of a wonderful and service-filled life she left us quietly at her home at Mile 5 ½ Philip Goldson Highway on December 12, which also happens to be my brother Philip’s birthday and the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, to whom we never fail to pray for protection against destructive storms and hurricanes.

Thank goodness we were spared this past hurricane season.

Many have spoken about Miss Jane and haved remembered her for the one-and-only great family and credit union leader she was. I recall visiting her in her then very small office at Hyde’s Lane in Belize City, even before the second floor of the tiny ferro-concrete structure which housed Holy Redeemer Credit Union was added. My own Mom worked for a while at HRCU when my younger brothers John and Paul were at Holy Redeemer school in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Miss Jane, Uncle Henry Usher, and their large family had moved to Price Bank not too long after the devastating Hurricane Hattie completely destroyed their Belize City home. They were true pioneers. In 1967 my own parents followed suit. We moved right next door to the Ushers when I was ten years old. My schoolmates used to tease me and tell me that I “gone live da bush.” Believe me it is bush no longer !!

In remembering Miss Jane (I didn’t call her Auntie Jane), I am confident that I can say that so many of us would never be where we are today had it not been for her and HRCU. We had large families. Miss Jane and Uncle Henry had ten; Mom and Dad had eight.

There is no way they could have afforded to send all of us to high school, sixth form and university without the help of their being member/owners of HRCU. Since we were little, we all had our credit union books, and our parents took Miss Jane’s sage counsel and saved modestly for us. When it was time to need finance for education, the small nest egg at HRCU was there. Mom and Dad made sure to pay the interest on our education loans, and as soon as we were able, we took over our

own credit union accounts and repaid what had been borrowed. The Umbrella Man has never failed us throughout all these years, and it is Miss Jane who at the helm of our own credit union remained steadfast in her stewardship.

Look where HRCU is today !!

I thought that the Official Funeral and Ceremonies of Christian Burial for Miss Jane were a truly fitting tribute to her. Her huge family, along with input from the Goverment of Belize, made sure that there was attention to every detail. My secretary/personal assistant and I walked over to HRCU on Hyde’s Lane from our Queen Street office around nine on the morning of December 18th where she lay in state, her casket draped beautifully in the Belizean flag. We signed the guest book, paid quiet honor, and stopped to talk briefly with family members and staff, notably Sonny Meighan, who has been part of the Miss Jane/HRCU family for very many years.

Miss Jane’s casket was then brought by soldiers of the BDF, including two of her grandchildren, the short distance to Holy Redeemer Cathedral for the Mass of Resurrection. Four of Miss Jane’s sisters attended the funeral or burial, and numerous family members, staff members of HRCU, government officials and friends filled the cathedral to capacity for the service and words of tribute. Then, after a brief ceremony of remembrance by the People’s United Party in front of Independence Hall, her body was brought to the family burial site at the Usher residence for interment with full offical honors. A touching part of the burial rites was when over forty staff members of HRCU each placed a white flower on her grave, after Father Smalls had blessed the burial site and recited prayers. Governor General Sir Colville Young, Minister Tracy Taegar Panton, Hon. Johnny Briceno, and Rt. Hon. Said Musa also laid wreaths.

The planning and execution of the entire ceremonies that afternoon were first class, and it was an honor to have participated as she was laid to rest in the presence of her immediate and extended families, her HRCU family, and many friends and relatives who together witnessed this conclusion of an era, the era of the inimitable Miss Jane. May she rest in perfect peace.

2019

NOTICE Vacancies – THE SOL GROUP Are you driven to succeed?

The Sol Group is the Caribbean’s leading independent energy company operating a petroleum, marketing, and distribution business across 23 territories in the Eastern and Western Caribbean, Puerto Rico, as well as Central and South America. Sol is an equal opportunity employer, and aims to create a world-class operation through the development and retention of talented Caribbean nationals across the region. Sol will provide challenging and meaningful careers to the right people.

Sol has an immediate vacancy for the following position at its office in Belize City.

Fleet/Depot Supervisor

Reporting to and under the guidance of the Operations Supervisor this position will be responsible for the following activities: • Assist with the preparation and implementation of relevant annual capital, operational budgets and plans for Sol Belize • Manage plant, equipment, and Road Transport activities to optimise reliability, cost and meet Industry, Company and legislated safety standards • Deputize for Operations Supervisor when necessary and required • Carryout out periodic inspection of depot, and ensure that all pertinent issues are addressed in a timely basis • Assist with lubes inventory management including the coordination of customs clearance and delivery to the lubricants warehouse • Ensure daily and monthly reconciliation of packaged products and materials are performed, and record and investigate all variances • Manage the lubricants warehouse contract to ensure contractor’s compliance with agreed service levels • Support delivery of SOL Customer Value Proposition by ensuring the timely and efficient delivery of products • Manage all road transport contracts and develop productive working relations with transporters, contractors, and customers • Plan and execute programs to improve Road Transport safety including the “Drivers League” safety performance program • Maintain and ensure the integrity of the fuel delivery process including keeping of records relating to drivers daily work sheets, trips and investigation of any disputes • Coordinate transporter meetings and training programs as required • Assist with the implementation and compliance with the company’s HSE Management System.

• Implement recommendations or remedial action plans in Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) audits as related to Sol depot, Transport and Retail cases • Assist with the execution and recording of emergency exercises and drills at Sol Belize facility as required

• Participate in the investigation of all road transport incidents and timely completion of investigation report.

Qualification Requirements • Engineering Degree

• Candidates with Associate degree in an engineering field must have a minimum of 5 years’ experience in related area of study • Supervisory experience and skills will be an asset • Must have a valid driver’s license

Job Candidate Requirements • • • • • • • • •

Commitment to honesty, integrity, and customer service Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills Must have the ability and attitude to work well with others Confidence in negotiating and resolving conflicts Ability to self-plan, motivate, and deliver results Ability to meet due dates and work well under pressure Strong knowledge of Personal Computing including word, excel and power point and internet/intranet technology Fluency in Spanish would be an asset Have a working understanding of Health, Safety, and Environmental management systems

SOL promotes a drug and alcohol free work environment and all employees are subject to initial and random screenings. In addition to an attractive basic salary, the successful applicant shall be eligible to participate in the SOL Group Pension Scheme and its Group Health and Life Insurance Scheme.

For more information or to apply for this position, please visit our website at www.solpetroleum.com Application forms can be downloaded and must be submitted along with your CV via email to careers@solpetroleum.com and copied to alicia.gonzalez@solpetroleum.com on or before January 11, 2019 with email subject line: BZE, FDS – JAN 2019. Certified copies of relevant certificates will be requested for those applications under consideration.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for an interview.

SOL people think SOL people act SOL people lead

www.solpetroleum.com

6 JAN

15

THE BELIZE TIMES

2019

THINKING OUT LOUD BY: KEVIN BERNARD

As I write this, we are coming to the end of 2018, and we prepare for whatever the New Year will bring.

Many of us are setting goals, as we do every year. Some of us will want to lose weight, or gain weight. Others will resolve to stop drinking, or to party less and focus on family more.

Others will determine to work harder, to make more money, to buy a car or build a house. Some of our resolutions are simple and easily achieved with determination. Others are complicated and complex, and will take more work.

Resolutions are personal things and are your business – but I will say this. If I’ve learned anything this year, it is that the family structure has become perhaps more important than it ever was – sacred even. I have seen way too much bad this past year caused by the breakdown of families.

I think we have all seen too much grief and tragedy. So whatever your resolution – add another one in there somewhere. Hold tight to your loved ones. Resolve to be kinder to those around you. To guide your children in the proper direction and to show them good examples. Love them and nurture them, because family is everything. On a personal level, that is my resolution, and I invite you all to share it with me.

Every time we enter a new year, we do so with a spirit of hope. We always hope that things will be different, that things will be better. As a politician who cares about the people, I’ve come to realize that sometimes we sit back and wish for change, and cry out for change, but never make a move to make change happen. We always expect somebody else to do it.

I’ve watched on Facebook as hundreds and hundreds of Belizeans rant and rave about one thing or the other.

On Facebook we condemn corruption and greed by our Ministers. On Facebook we are furious when there is a fuel increase, or an increase in some tax or the other, or an increase in our light bills. On Facebook we talk about standing up and taking to the streets whenever there is a scandal involving some Minister of the other, or some crony or the other, or whenever money goes missing from public coffers and ends up in somebody’s pocket.

But organize a demonstration, and five people will show up. That is how we Belizeans do it. And I firmly believe that it is for that reason that this Barrow administration keeps taking advantage of all of us. We have

persons in office who have committed criminal acts and have faced no justice. And we complain on Facebook, but nowhere else.

That is why I will always hold the teachers of Belize in high regard – those teachers who regardless of political affiliation and regardless of victimization have taken to the streets to demand better governance. Yet, there are many teachers who stay home silent. And when the teachers march, too often they are alone – the other unions are silent, and our social partners sometimes seem like they’ve gone dormant.

In this New Year, let us do more than hope for change. Let us all demand the good governance we deserve. Let us all call for an end to corruption and greed in government. Let us call for them to put structures in place to limit their own power. Let us ALL call together for equal opportunities, for empowerment, for jobs, for a lower cost of living, for quality, affordable healthcare and education. We can do these things if we all stand together – but not on Facebook.

As we end this year, I join my Party Leader and People’s United Party in denouncing this foolishness about another increase in the cost of electricity. Haven’t our people been burdened by too much already? Look around, and you will see that Ministers and their friends and family and cronies have gotten rich and fat, while the quality of life of ‘normal’ Belizeans has gotten worse.

We are tired of being taken for fools.

This year in his New Year message the Prime Minister promised that he has gotten funding for the paving of the Sarteneja/Progresso/San Estevan Road. Do you all know how many times we have heard this promise through the years? The Government had the money in hand and diverted it years ago. And now every year we have to listen to the same old promises.

Let us stand together for accountability and for better for all of us. This New Year, I wish all of us the courage to be the change that we all want to see, and the courage to get rid of those who have oppressed and victimized us for too long. Happy New Year.

NOTICE OF COMMENCED DISSOLUTION Notice is hereby given SPADOLAZZO CONSULTING INC. commenced dissolution on 3rd December, 2018; and James Murden of 49 avenue Hector Otto Monaco is the Liquidator of the company.

Notice is hereby given BARIN WORLDWIDE INC. commenced dissolution on 4th December, 2018 and International Liquidator Services Ltd. whose registered

office is at Withfield Tower, 3rd Floor, 4792 Coney Drive, Belize City, Belize, is the Liquidator of the company.

Notice is hereby given MONTEZ BUSINESS LTD. commenced dissolution on 4th December, 2018; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the company.

Morgan & Morgan Trust Corporation Belize Limited

NOTICE OF COMMENCED DISSOLUTION Notice is hereby given BRIGG CONSULTANCE INC. and CORATO ENTERPRISES LTD. both commenced dissolution on 5th December, 2018; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the companies.

Notice is hereby given FRASERY GROUP CORP., RISTER HOLDING LTD., MULKERTON ENTERPRISES LTD., and LINVER SECURITIES LTD. all commenced dissolution on 7th December, 2018; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the companies.

Notice is hereby given TRICORP MANAGEMENT INC. commenced dissolution on 7th December, 2018; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the company.

Morgan & Morgan Trust Corporation Belize Limited

NOTICE OF COMMENCED DISSOLUTION

Notice is hereby given ARNAZ INTERNATIONAL S.A. and MAYS CONSULTANT LTD. both commenced dissolution on 12th December, 2018; and IAN DAVID FEBER of Gretenweg 13, 8038 Zurich, Switzerland, is the Liquidator of the companies.

Morgan & Morgan Trust Corporation Belize Limited

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

Iratron Worldwide Corp.

TREMACO MANAGEMENT S.A. CONDOR SHIPPING S.A. MATREROS Investments Ltd. DIGHAM INTERNATIONAL LTD. VIRTUE NOMINEES LTD. PRIMROSE OVERSEAS LTD. LAVARANCA UNITED S.A. Rangeburg Enterprises Corp.

Hadwin Worldwide Corp.

MAGNOLIA KING TRADING INC. NORRIS GROUP LTD. Halden Investments S.A. Nossa Portfolio S.A. Velika Management Limited GREENVALLEY HOLDINGS LTD. VAN BUREN BUSINESS CORP. ZAHMAT CORP. MEADOWVALE HOLDINGS INC. SANMURO INVEST CORP. SUNNIGNDAL INVEST CORP. White Dvoe Advisers Ltd.|

Date of Dissolution

3-Nov-18 6-Nov-18 6-Nov-18 6-Nov-18 6-Nov-18 8-Nov-18 8-Nov-18 9-Nov-18 20-Nov-18 20-Nov-18 20-Nov-18 21-Nov-18 23-Nov-18 23-Nov-18 23-Nov-18 24-Nov-18 24-Nov-18 24-Nov-18 27-Nov-18 27-Nov-18 28-Nov-18 28-Nov-18

Morgan & Morgan Trust Corporation Belize Ltd.

16

THE THEBELIZE BELIZETIMES TIMES

ESPAÑOL

66JAN JAN

2019 2019

La OEA amenaza al Gobierno de Ortega con la suspensión de Nicaragua El secretario general, Luis Almagro, afirma que “buscará” la justicia internacional para que sean juzgados los responsables de los crímenes contra civiles en el país centroamericano El Pais: Managua Nicaragua 30 de Diciembre 2018 Luis Almagro echa un pulso al Gobierno de Daniel Ortega. El secretario general de la Organización de Estados Americanos (OEA) ha anunciado este jueves que pondrá en marcha el proceso para aplicar la Carta Democrática contra Nicaragua, que puede desembocar en la suspensióndel país centroamericano del organismo. Se trata de una medida urgente para presionar a las autoridades nicaragüenses y que forzarlas a respetar la institucionalidad en una nación sumida en una profunda crisis política.

La represión deja ya más de 325 muertos desde abril, cuando comenzaron las protestas contra Ortega. Almagro ha afirmado, además, que la OEA “buscará” la justicia internacional para que sean juzgados los responsables de los crímenes contra civiles.

En una sesión extraordinaria del Consejo Permanente de la OEA celebrada este jueves en Washington, el jefe del ente americano ha remarcado que se veía “obligado” a empezar el proceso de aplicación de ese documento jurídico continental, creado para preservar el orden institucional cuando en un país de la región se establezca que ha habido una ruptura en el orden constitucional. La suspensión de la organización tendría, para Nicaragua, importantes consecuencias políticas y económicas.

La aplicación de la Carta, sin embargo, requiere antes de algunas gestiones diplomáticas. El artículo 21 de dicho documento establece que “cuando la Asamblea General [el máximo órgano de la OEA], convocada a un período extraordinario de sesiones, constate que se ha producido la ruptura del orden democrático en un Estado miembro y que las gestiones diplomáticas han sido infructuosas, conforme a la Carta de la OEA tomará la decisión de suspender a dicho Estado Miembro del ejercicio de su derecho de participación en la OEA con el voto afirmativo de los dos tercios de los Estados Miembros. La suspensión entrará en vigor de inmediato”.

Para Almagro, las violaciones a los derechos humanos, la deriva autoritaria de Ortega, la expulsión de

observadores internacionales de Nicaragua y la persecución contra la disidencia, exigen una respuesta contundente de parte de las naciones que conforman la OEA. “Nos vemos obligados a empezar la aplicación de la Carta Democrática Interamericana a Nicaragua, porque la solución a la violación a los derechos humanos es un asunto de la región entera. La solución todavía es política y diplomática y contamos con los instrumentos normativos interamericanos para abordarla y que, para bien o para mal, los incluye a ustedes, a su Gobierno”, ha apuntado Almagro en un discurso marcado por la dureza en el trato hacia el presidente Ortega, a quien señaló de haber optado por el camino de la “dictadura”.

El secretario general ha agregado, además, que “el futuro de Nicaragua no puede ser uno con un Ortega dictador, qué bueno sería con un Ortega demócrata”. “Esto no es un juego político, se trata de la vida y derechos de los nicaragüenses. Al comenzar el camino para la Carta Democrática Interamericana se abre también un camino para que su Gobierno reconsidere sus acciones. La carta así lo prevé. Quisiera aferrarme a esa última esperanza”.

Presión diplomática Almagro ha subrayado que se

mantendrá la presión diplomática para que Ortegadetenga la represión y negocie una salida pacífica a la crisis que atraviesa el país centroamericano. Y ha explicado, además, que la OEA presionará para reactivar el denominado “diálogo nacional”, suspendido por la cerrazón del Ejecutivo nicaragüense de acceder a reformas que permitan convocar a elecciones antes de 2021, cuando está previsto que finalice el mandato del sandinista. También solicitará a la Comisión Interamericana de Derechos Humanos (CIDH) que denuncie los crímenes cometidos por el Gobierno sandinista ante la Corte Interamericana, con sede en San José de Costa Rica, así como pedir al consejo permanente de la OEA que remita al Consejo de Seguridad de Naciones Unidas el informe del Grupo Interdisciplinario de Expertos Independientes (GIEI) presentado la semana pasada, que señala al Gobierno de Ortega de haber cometido “crímenes de lesa humanidad” en Nicaragua.

Ese informe debió presentarse en Managua el pasado jueves, pero el Gobierno expulsó a los integrantes del GIEI, así como a una misión de la CIDH que investigaba las violaciones a los

Jair Bolsonaro asume la Presidencia de Brasil y llama a liberar al país “de la corrupción y del yugo ideológico” El Pais: Martes 1ro de Enero 2019 Cientos de miles de seguidores agolpados en las principales avenidas de Brasilia fueron testigos de la llegada de la ultraderecha al poder en Brasil después de cuatro victorias consecutivas de la izquierda. Jair Bolsonaro llegó aclamado al Congreso Nacional, donde prometió restaurar Brasil y “proteger la democracia”.

En su primer discurso tras ser investido pidió a los congresistas que le ayuden a “restaurar y levantar la patria, liberándola del yugo de la corrupción, la criminalidad, la irresponsabilidad ideológica y la sumisión ideológica”.

Aunque apeló a la unidad y prometió un Brasil sin discriminación, Bolsonaro, nostálgico confeso de la dictadura militar brasileña (1964-1985) marcó su territorio al definir como prioritaria su agenda conservadora. “Vamos a unir al

pueblo, valorar la familia, respetar las religiones y nuestra tradición judeo-cristiana, combatir la ideología de género... en definitiva, hacer que Brasil vuelva a ser un país libre de amarras ideológicas”.

Bolsonaro dio algunas pinceladas

de su tarea al frente del Gobierno. Para la educación prometió unas escuelas que formen personas para el mercado de trabajo y no militantes políticos (hace unos días decía en Twitter que la culpa de la mala calidad de la Cont’do pagina 17

derechos humanos. El informe al final se presentó en Washington y fue repudiado por el Ejecutivo de Ortega. “De continuar cometiéndose crímenes de lesa humanidad solicitaremos a los Estados parte de la OEA a que los funcionarios nombrados como inductores en el informe del Grupo de Expertos sean detenidos y juzgados por dichos crímenes, activando así la justicia universal”, afirmó Almagro.

El Gobierno de Nicaragua rechazó las declaraciones de Almagro y a través de su embajador ante la OEA, Luis Alvarado, exigió la renuncia del uruguayo como secretario general. “Sus declaraciones lo descalifican de seguir ostentando el cargo”, dijo el diplomático, quien repitió el discurso oficial del régimen sandinista, que acusa a Estados Unidos de promover y financiar una “ofensiva golpista” contra el Gobierno y a la OEA de instigar “desestabilización y golpes de Estado”.

Nicaragua ha cumplido ocho meses de crisis política.

Además de los centenares de muertos se registran al menos 500 presos, más de 2.000 heridos, 40.000 exiliados en Costa Rica y una profunda afectación a la economía que ha dejado tras de sí decenas de miles de desempleados. La última ofensiva del Gobierno ha sido contra el periodismo independiente, que ha incluido el asalto y posterior ocupación de la revista Confidencial y del canal 100% Noticias. El director de este último, Miguel Mora, y la jefa de información, Lucía Pineda, han sido arrestados y acusados ambos de incitar al odio y de delitos relacionados con el “terrorismo”.

La justicia, controlada por Ortega y su entorno, también emitió una orden de captura contra Luis Galeano, colaborador de la agencia Associated Press y director del programa Café con voz, que retransmitía 100% Noticias. Galeano anunció el miércoles que dejó Nicaragua “debido a la persecución que ha entablado la dictadura en contra de los medios de comunicación independientes, en contra de periodistas independientes”.

6 JAN

2019

18 JAN

THE THEBELIZE BELIZETIMES TIMES 2015

2018, UN AÑO NEGRO PARA GUATEMALA

Las elecciones presidenciales de 2019 serán un plebiscito para Jimmy Morales en su intento por terminar con la Comisión contra la Impunidad de la ONU y evitar el banquillo

Prensa Libre: Ciudad de Guatemala 30 de Diciembre Guatemala cierra 2018 bajo el signo de la involución en la lucha contra la impunidad y la corrupción, con un presidente, Jimmy Morales, desbocado en su intento por expulsar a la Comisión Internacional contra la Impunidad en Guatemala (Cicig, patrocinada por la ONU) y afanado en eliminar los contrapesos previstos a su poder, como la Corte de Constitucionalidad, la Corte Suprema de Justicia, la Procuraduría de los Derechos Humanos y, en general, contra quienes levantan la voz criticando sus políticas. Las elecciones presidenciales de junio de 2019 determinarán el respaldo que su política tiene entre la ciudadanía.

Envalentonado por sus éxitos iniciales —ya expulsó del país al comisionado Iván Velázquez y a 11 de sus investigadores, desoyendo en ambos casos las órdenes del Constitucional y obviando los convenios internacionales firmados con las Naciones Unidas—, con una Fiscalía cooptada, un Congreso complaciente que se mueve a base de chequera, y un tibio Tribunal Supremo Electoral, Morales apunta ahora sus baterías sobre los pocos organismos independientes: el Constitucional y la Procuraduría de los Derechos Humanos.

Decisiones, todas, que le han valido las críticas de la comunidad internacional, ante las que el mandatario ha hecho oídos sordos.

Entre sus mayores críticos está la congresista estadounidense de origen guatemalteco Norma Torres, del Partido Demócrata, que no ha dudado en calificar al Gobierno de Morales como “criminal” y “corrupto” en su cuenta de Twitter, y propone un significativo recorte en la ayuda estadounidense para el país centroamericano.

“Este gobierno ha logrado desmantelar lo poco que habíamos avanzado. Los retrocesos son tan evidentes que ya empiezan a reflejarse en los indicadores de todo tipo”, apunta a EL PAÍS el analista Manfredo Marroquín, de Transparencia Internacional. Señala que hay un bloque de poder muy activo en mantener el esquema de una economía manejada por actividades ilícitas, como la corrupción y el narcotráfico. Eso explicaría el empeño de Morales en desmantelar el sistema de pesos y contrapesos. “Primero, porque tiene necesidad de salvar su pellejo, pero también a su alianza, que le está dando mucho rédito económico, con los grupos acusados de corrupción. Su única misión ha sido mantener el estado de podredumbre que existe en Guatemala”.

En este contexto y a seis meses de las

elecciones presidenciales, Marroquín proyecta 2019 como “un año de mucha convulsión social y política”, porque la disputa se trasladará a la campaña electoral. Para evitar una polarización mayor, el representante de la organización Transparencia Internacional exige a la comunidad internacional estar vigilante y “ser menos pasiva ante los abusos de poder”.

“Morales parece un elefante un una cristalería”, comenta desde México el exministro de Exteriores Édgar Gutiérrez. “Con su actitud hace un daño irreparable a instituciones autónomas como la Corte de Constitucionalidad o la Fiscalía Especial Contra la Impunidad (FECI), mientras ataca a jueces y magistrados independientes que tanto necesita Guatemala. Y, además, lo hace mal porque usar para estos fines a la Procuraduría General de la Nación (la abogacía del Estado) para satisfacer una necesidad personal termina por destruir su escasa credibilidad”.

Gutiérrez critica que algunas de estas decisiones se tomen en época navideña, cuando la población disfruta de las fiestas. “Esto es actuar con alevosía y refleja una actitud para nada transparente”.

“Guatemala”, concluye, “en los últimos dos años, ha seguido un camino de aislamiento y este tipo de acciones lo ponen nuevamente en la mira. Hay que recordar que estamos ubicados en una región con una geopolítica muy delicada. En este contexto, cualquier acción que debilite o desestabilice a un país puede causar un efecto dominó en la zona”.

Otra de las voces críticas con Morales, la ex fiscal general del Estado, Thelma Aldana, en la mira del mandatario, considera que, “a pesar de todo”, las acciones del mandatario no revierten los logros alcanzados. “Desde 2015 —cuando las investigaciones de la Fiscalía y la Cicig llevaron a la cárcel al expresidente Otto Pérez y a la práctica totalidad de su gabinete— la población guatemalteca conoce el grado de corrupción que ha caracterizado a los gobiernos de la era democrática iniciada en 1985”.

“Lo que sucede es que, a partir del apoyo de la Cicig, se ha evidenciado su involucramiento y reacciona tratando de debilitar a las instituciones y, en general, al sistema de justicia y la policía. Su debilitamiento sí puede generar un retroceso, y de ahí el empeño en mantener la impunidad en el país”, dice a este periódico. Según la prestigiosa jurista, “Jimmy Morales no es un aliado en la lucha contra la corrupción. Al contrario, está en contra y pretende mantener la impunidad”.

ESPAÑOL

17

Jair Bolsonaro asume la Presidencia de Brasil y llama a liberar al país “de la corrupción y del yugo ideológico” Cont’do de pagina 16 educación en Brasil es de la “basura marxista” que predomina en los colegios y universidades).

Para acabar con la violencia pidió ayuda a los parlamentarios para poder cambiar las leyes y garantizar inmunidad jurídica a los policías que maten a sospechosos en servicio, aunque no mencionó otra de sus propuestas estrella, facilitar la tenencia de armas.

Tan sólo cuando acabó de repasar sus temas favoritos habló de las reformas estructurales que Brasil necesita para afianzar la recuperación económica. “En la economía, traeremos la marca del libre mercado y de la eficiencia.

Hemos montado un equipo técnico, sin el tradicional sesgo político”, aseguró Bolsonaro, que habló de austeridad fiscal y de abrir Brasil al comercio internacional.

Sangre para proteger la bandera Visiblemente emocionado, y acompañado en un Rolls Royce descapotable de su esposa Michelle Bolsonaro y uno de sus hijos, Carlos Bolsonaro, el nuevo presidente se dio un baño de masas rumbo al Palacio del Planalto, sede del Gobierno, aclamado a gritos de “mito, mito” y “el capitán llegó”. Tras subir la famosa rampa diseñada por Oscar Niemeyer, el presidente saliente, Michel Temer, le colocó la banda presidencial.

Allí, frente a una multitud, la nueva primera dama realizó un inaudito discurso de agradecimiento en lenguaje de signos, y Bolsonaro volvió a hablar, esta vez en un tono más acalorado: “Me coloco ante vosotros el día en que el pueblo empezó a liberarse del socialismo, de la inversión de valores, del gigantismo estatal y de lo políticamente correcto”, proclamó entre fuertes aplausos.

Habló de las “nefastas ideologías” que destruyen familias y pidió colaboración a los ciudadanos de a pie para, junto a las familias, restablecer los patrones éticos y morales que transformarán Brasil. “Vamos a establecer el orden en este país”, parecía haber zanjado el nuevo presidente, que segundos después se vino arriba ante los gritos del público y se sacó del bolsillo una bandera de Brasil: “Esta es nuestra bandera, que jamás será roja. Sólo será roja si es por nuestra sangre, para mantenerla verde y amarilla”. La referencia al rojo a la bandera es habitual entre los seguidores de Bolsonaro para referirse a la amenaza comunista que en su opinión representa el Partido de los Trabajadores (PT).

Tras ese último discurso, Bolsonaro pudo saludar a la docena de jefes de Estado y de Gobierno que acudieron a la investidura, entre los que tuvo un papel destacado el primer ministro israelí, Benjamin Netanyahu. Los dos

mandatarios ya mantuvieron una reunión bilateral la semana pasada en Río de Janeiro, en la que Bolsonaro reconfirmó que trasladará la embajada a Jerusalén. Será el primer terremoto diplomático de los muchos que se avecinan. Los países árabes hace semanas que insinúan medidas de boicot a Brasil en caso de que la promesa se haga realidad.

La discreta representación europea tuvo como excepción al ultraderechista húngaro Viktor Orbán. España, que mandó a la investidura de López Obrador en México al rey Felipe VI y al ministro de Exteriores, Josep Borrell, bajó el nivel de la representación y envió a Brasilia a la presidenta del Congreso, Ana Pastor, acompañada por el secretario de Estado de Cooperación, Juan Pablo de Laiglesia.

Las ausencias fueron de lo más elocuentes: el cubano Miguel Díaz Canel y el venezolano Nicolás Maduro tuvieron su invitación revocada por el equipo de Bolsonaro, después de que el Gobierno en funciones de Temer las hubiera enviado. “No hay sitio para dictaduras en una fiesta de la democracia”, justificó el nuevo presidente. También faltaron buena parte de los países africanos y en vías de desarrollo, que Lula y Rousseff priorizaron en sus relaciones exteriores.

Tampoco saludaron a Bolsonaro buena parte de los diputados que estarán en la oposición los próximos cuatro años. Los parlamentarios del PT y del Partido Socialismo y Libertad (PSOL) ya avisaron hace unos días que boicotearían la fiesta porque no había “nada que celebrar” y porque no toleran discursos y acciones que estimulan “el odio, la intolerancia y la discriminación”.

La investidura del presidente más polémico de la historia reciente de Brasil tuvo lugar bajo un esquema de seguridad sin precedentes. Más de 12.000 militares y policías en los principales escenarios de la ceremonia, el espacio aéreo de la ciudad cerrado y tiradores de élite colocados en puntos estratégicos listos para frenar cualquier ataque.

Bolsonaro fue apuñalado por un perturbado mental durante la campaña electoral, lo que casi acaba con su vida pero al mismo tiempo catapultó su popularidad.

Desde entonces, su entorno y el propio Gabinete de Seguridad Institucional del Gobierno aseguran que viene sufriendo amenazas.

Los estrictos e incómodos controles se seguridad no consiguieron arruinar el clima festivo que se vivió en la capital del país.

18

THE BELIZE TIMES

FORESTATION COULD BE A SHORT-TERM SOLUTION TO CLIMATE CHANGE

By Dr. Pedro Villegas “You will never change anything by fighting the existing.

To change something, build a new model and make the existing obsolete” –Buckminster Fuller– Global action against Climate Change has focused mainly on mitigation. As the likelihood of the Paris Agreement target of limiting the increase in global average temperature to 2˚C decreases, it is increasingly urgent that economies adapt to Climate Change. While the flow of investments for renewable energy, energy efficiency and clean infrastructure increases, there is a significant deficit in public and private investments to adapt to Climate Change and resilience in the face of disasters.

By 2050 land degradation and Climate Change could reduce global crop yields by 10%. If we are to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, it is vital that we invest in our forests and landscapes.

To prevent the worst consequences of Climate Change, we need to act now. There is a “catastrophic climate gap” between the commitments that countries have made under the Paris Climate Agreement and the emissions reductions required to avoid the worst consequences of global warming, according to United Nations Environment.

The Paris Agreement aims to strengthen the global response to the threat of Climate Change by keeping a global temperature rise this century well below 2˚C, and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase even further to 1.5˚C. Current pledges from governments represent only about half of what would be required to avoid a 2˚C temperature rise, and just one third of what’s required to limit warming to 1.5˚C. While this “emissions gap” is significant, United Nations Environment suggests it can still be closed in a cost-effective manner.

One of the major contributors to closing the gap is forests. The good news here is that 6.3 gigatons (billion tons) of carbon dioxide emission reductions have already been reported over the past six years from forests in Brazil, Ecuador, Malaysia and Colombia alone under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. This is equivalent to the annual emissions of Canada, Mexico and United States.

This is a significant step forward, showing that forests can be a central part of the solution to Climate Change. In other words, tropical forests hold the potential to con-

6 JAN

2019

NOTICE OF COMMENCED DISSOLUTION Notice is hereby given REAL ESTATE INVEST & TRADE LTD. and BURSOLA INVEST CORP. both commenced dissolution on 16th November, 2018; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the companies.

Notice is hereby given LYDIA FINANCIAL CORP. commenced dissolution on 16th November, 2018; and Rachel Louise Wells of La Galerie, 31 Route

de Breil, 37330 Channay-sur-Lathan, France is the Liquidator of the company.

Notice is hereby given Sonit International Inc. commenced dissolution on 21st November, 2018; and International Liquidator Services Ltd. whose registered office is at Withfield Tower, 3rd Floor, 4792 Coney Drive, Belize City, Belize, is the Liquidator of the company.

Morgan & Morgan Trust Corporation Belize Limited

NOTICE OF COMMENCED DISSOLUTION Notice is hereby given AGIGI GROUP CORP. S.A., MALDEN HOLDING LTD., HAMPTON FINANCE INC., HALIMEDA CONTINENTAL S.A. commenced dissolution on 21st November, 2018; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the companies. stitute somewhere between one quarter and one third of the nearterm solution to Climate Change.

Agriculture can also help close the emissions gap. Its known that more than half of agricultural emissions come from livestock, particularly methane-emitting ruminants such as cattle.

While every country can contribute something to the effort to close the gap, there are eight countries with large climate mitigation potential. Each country’s mitigation formula will need to emphasize different opportunities: reducing emissions from the forest sector (Indonesia); increasing sequestration (Brazil); dietary shifts and food waste reduction (United States and European Union); and increased efficiency in crop and livestock production (India and China).

Additional support is also needed to halt deforestation in developing countries with high forest cover like Belize. Saving forests not only helps fight Climate Change but can also reduce poverty, protecting the 1.6 million people globally who depend on forests for their livelihoods.

Enormous amounts of carbon are released into the atmosphere when forests are cleared. Activities such as selective logging and drainage of carbon-rich peat swamps are also significant emissions sources.

Protecting forests, including mangroves, makes climate action cheaper and faster. We need to build the political case for this across all countries.

There is an urgency of redoubling our efforts to reduce emissions. It means that solutions exist, and if they are adopted quickly, we can turn our current situation around. But with each year we wait, we make our ability to limit dangerous Climate Change more difficult, risky and costly.

You can reach your own conclusions.

God bless Belize!

Follow us at: www.cubel.org & www.facebook.com/cubelconsultancy

Notice is hereby given DELAPORT HOLDING LTD., commenced dissolution on 21st November, 2018; and Rachel Louise Wells of La Galerie, 31 Route de Breil, 37330 Channay-sur-Lathan, France is the Liquidator of the company.

Notice is hereby given SIMO INVESTMENT LTD. commenced dissolution on 22nd November, 2018; and IAN DAVID FEBER of Gretenweg 13, 8038 Zurich, Switzerland, is the Liquidator of the company.

Morgan & Morgan Trust Corporation Belize Limited

NOTICE OF COMMENCED DISSOLUTION Notice is hereby given DEWITT INVESTMENT LTD., VILAR INVESTMENTS HOLDINGS S.A., and ALDANI INVEST INC. all commenced dissolution on 22 nd November, 2018; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the companies.

Notice is hereby given FRAN OVERSEAS LTD. commenced dissolution on 22nd November, 2018; and Rachel Louise Wells of La Galerie, 31 Route de Breil, 37330 Channay-sur-Lathan, France is the Liquidator of the company.

Notice is hereby given UTIMAG HOLDINGS S.A. and SKYFLY PARTICIPATION CORP. both commenced dissolution on 23rd November, 2018; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the companies.

Morgan & Morgan Trust Corporation Belize Limited

NOTICE OF COMMENCED DISSOLUTION Notice is hereby given Brooklyn Overseas S.A. and Yasir Investments Ltd. both commenced dissolution on 26th November, 2018; and International Liquidator Services Ltd. whose registered office is at Withfield Tower, 3rd Floor, 4792 Coney Drive, Belize City, Belize, is the Liquidator of the companies.

Notice is hereby given ODINA FINANCIAL INC. commenced dissolution on 26 th November, 2018; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the company.

Notice is hereby given SAPO OVERSEAS LTD. and BLUECAP S.A. both commenced dissolution on 28th November, 2018; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the companies.

Morgan & Morgan Trust Corporation Belize Limited

6 JAN

2019

A SIEGE FROM WITHIN?

By: Cristian Silva It is well known by now that the Belize Guatemala territorial dispute has been a hot topic among the citizens of both nations, especially since Guatemala held their referendum less than a year ago.

Belizeans will be voting in our referendum as early as April 10th this year. The agreed referendum held in both countries is to decide whether the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is the venue to find a lasting and binding solution to the unfounded century-long Guatemalan territorial dispute. It is a known fact that this territorial claim affects more than just the delimit boundaries of both nations. It is an issue that affects the social, political and economic foundations of both countries. Especially in the economic realm where dollars, goods and services crosses into the borders of Belize and Guatemala with high frequency. Guatemala being an economic behemoth has large capital so much so that they have acquired several strategic investments in many areas of Belize.

Some of these Investments involves the purchase of existing local businesses as well as the creation of new enterprises throughout Belize. Belize’s economic output is slowly being eyed, swapped up and controlled by Guatemalan capital and many of their businessmen are majority of shareholders in many of our businesses that provide basic necessities to the nation.

It doesn’t take much to note that many medium and large-scale businesses are owned or operated by Guatemalan businessmen and their respective family members or Belizean representatives.

Many of these locally registered investments are documented under the guise of having a Belizean owner, but that’s usually as far as the ink on that ownership goes.

All investments in a country are usually a good thing, and it helps

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19

THE BELIZE TIMES

grow where growth has been slow or non-existent. However, at this point in time, it would leave you to wonder?

Is this a siege from within? Has the Guatemalan elite managed, penetrate and start to seize control of the Belizean Economy? There are far more questions than answers, but it leaves you to wonder what has happened to our true Belizean businesses. This is happening because the Belizean economy hasn’t been having the best of times, and many home-grown Belizeans businesses have experienced hardships without any assistance from our Government, instead they are being strangled with taxes and regulations more than ever. It is noteworthy that this UDP Government has been giving duty exemption and other concessions to foreign groups and have abandoned local homegrown businesses to the wind or be sold off. Usually, that’s something that should be reversed or at least balanced across the board for all businesses. But instead the core Belizean economic might is withering while others, like Guatemalan businessmen, come and snatch up business properties for pennies on the dollar.

This combined with the Belize-Guatemalan territorial claim would seem like Belize is being cornered into a position where Belizeans would have little say over our national economy.

With that said the ever-increasing control of our national economy by Guatemalan capital, and Businesses should be observed with great caution. These investments could be a Trojan horse or maybe genuine investment opportunities. As a Trojan horse, Guatemalans could be winning the war before it even starts, and that strategy could have us ever more dependent on capital originating from Guatemala City, however, genuine investment is a source of job creation for Belizeans. This puts Belize at a very precarious situation where such investments could either work in favour or against us in the end. I believe that an emphasis should at least be placed on the economic foundations and not just the political structure to sit on top of that foundation. It should be a case where the economic base of any county determines the political structure not the other way around like Belize where the political structure sits at the top. Generally, every Belizean should be very vigilant about where the control of the economy is seated and who controls it. In Belize, we have seen the lack of government interest or assistance to local home-grown businesses. If this kind of assistance was granted to local home-grown business, the economy would ensure growth, job creation and economic sovereignty. That would cement the economic sovereignty of Belize, and we wouldn’t have to be wondering if there’s a siege from within.

NOTICE OF COMMENCED DISSOLUTION Notice is hereby given JAMUNA TRADING INC. commenced dissolution on 29th November, 2018; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the company.

Notice is hereby given AMATICO HOLDINGS CO. LIMITED commenced dissolution on 30th November, 2018; and Maria Christodoulou of 29 Spyrou Kyprianou 4003, Limassol, Cyprus is the Liquidator of the Company.

Notice is hereby given WATERBERG & PARTNERS S.A. commenced dissolution on 30th November, 2018; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the company.

Morgan & Morgan Trust Corporation Belize Limited

NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION Notice is hereby given that Michelia Financial Corp. has been dissolved and duly struck off the Belize International Business Companies Register.

Moore Stephens Magaña LLP Liquidator For Sale

By Order of the Mortgagee Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., a company duly registered under the Companies Act, Chapter 250 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition, 2000, and having its registered office at Cor. Albert and Bishop Streets, Belize City, Belize, hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Mortgagee under a Deed of Mortgage made the 16th day of July 2014, between TINA GILL of 529 Buttonwood Bay, Belize City, Belize District, Belize (hereinafter called “the Borrower”) of the One part and SCOTIABANK (BELIZE) LIMITED (hereinafter called “the Mortgagee”) of the Other part, and recorded as Instrument No. LTU-201401261 ,the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd. will at the expiration of two months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the property described in the schedule hereto.

All offers to purchase the said property must be made in writing and full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained from the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd. SCHEDULE ALL THAT piece or parcel of land Lot No. 3 situate at 11 Miles on the West side of Belize-Corozal Road, Belize District, and bounded as follows: On the North for 34.852 metres by a property of Margaret Gill, on the South for 35.852 metres by a 30 feet Road Reserve, on the East for 35.350 metres by Lots No. 1 and 2 and on the West for 34.629 metres by Lot No. 4, containing 1226.115 square metres being more particularly delineated and described as shown on Entry No. 2854 lodged at the Office of the Commissioner of Lands & Surveys, TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing thereon.

DATED this 10th day of December, 2018.

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

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6 JAN

THE BELIZE TIMES

BANANA SUCKER

2019

NOTICE NOTICE

ROBERT’S GROVE LIMITED

Please be informed that The Public Auction Sale of the Assets of Roberts Grove Limited, scheduled for Friday 4th January 2019 at 1:30 p.m., has been postponed to a date to be announced.

Kindly accept our apologies for all inconveniences caused.

Belize City: Thursday 3rd January 2019 The Fyffes Group has been transformed from Marketer to Marketer/ Owner of the Banana Industry in Belize. Seven banana farms facing the dire situation of liquidation were bought out by the Fyffes Group, whilst the Barrow Administration turned their backs on the local banana producers.

Seemingly, the buy-out was one of the “welcome boosts” Prime Minister boasted about in his New Year’s Message. Barrow’s “determination to seize 2019 with both hands….” Is no consolation to the realities that Belizeans faced in 2018?

The PM lauded the 45 million-dollar Fyffes purchase, which comes with an additional 14 million that s supposedly to be injected into the revitalization process. Barrow’s “Manna from the sky” the buy-out is indicative of the total disregard for local investment. A similar blow was inflicted on the Caneros in the North in their attempt to localize the Sugar Cane Industry. The approach for financing from Banco Atlantida by the cane family lacked government support needed to make it a reality.

American Sugar Refinery (ASR) is now controllers of the industry.

The agro-industry has always been considered a pillar of development as it relates to the Belizean Economy. In backward economics policy recommendations have been to invest in Agriculture.

In their ’94 term in office, the UDP Government was provided with substantial data analysis needed to survive the effects of the approaching global storm of trade liberalization.

Implementing the strategy within the economic paper would have made the Agro-Productive Sector competitive.

The determinants proffered for competitiveness were: economic policies and incentives; factors and infrastructure; conditions and institutions and programs.

The ’94 government rejected the recommendations by experts versed in the Agro-Industry. Instead, small farmers were abandoned and “food security became a distant dream.”

The Esquivel/Barrow Administration failed to engage in stemming from

the approaching headwinds the industry would experience.

Eventually, a change in government was realized. Under a People’s United Party Government and Hon Said Musa at the helm, the Agro-Industry began to breathe new life.

Said Musa explained that “the Banana Industry which was also in the doldrums when the PUP came into office was revived through hard trade negotiations that the Ministry of Trade together with Executives from the Banana Growers Association engaged in with Fyffes (the Marketer) and the European Union (EU). Loans were also extended through the Social Security Board (SSB) to the Association and the growers. The PUP government was able to pry open the release of funds under a Banana Support Program promised by the EU. Acreage of banana cultivation expanded significantly, and export of bananas surged to yield 65,783 tons with a value of 64 million dollars.

This is the kind of government support that recently, the Banana Industry has been lobbying the UDP Administration in order to keep the industry afloat and buoyant. The asking by local growers for duty exemption on inputs fell on deaf ears. The result the death knell for many local banana growers and loss of employment within the sector.

Curiously, the Fyffes deal is cushioned with “duty exemptions for imported inputs, even ahead of the full-scale fiscal incentive to be awarded to the group by the Ministry of Trade.” PM Barrow.

This is clearly the UDP modus operandi of catering to the whims and fancy of the International Investors while they blatantly disregard and reject home-grown Belizean investment.

It is abundantly clear that the economic vistas of 2019 painted in the PM New Year’s Message is illusionary. Furthermore, it is not compatible with the realities facing the Jewel and its citizenry. Mr. Prime Minister, for Belize to be in clover, you and your hopeless lot have to go. Aluta Contua….

Hilly Bennett, Voice of the Common Man.

KEVIN A. CASTILLO TELEPHONE: 223 4488 Email: kevinacas@yahoo.com Facebook: Belize Auctions

NOTICE BRISSIA INVESTMENTS INC. #80,419 (“the Company”)

Pursuant to Section 102 (4) of the International Business Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011, notice is hereby given that BRISSIA INVESTMENTS INC.: a) Is in dissolution b) Commenced dissolution on the 27th day of December 2018; and c) MARIA PIA REAL VIGNOLES whose address is Camino Sainz Martinez, between ruta 9 y 10, Paso del Tigre, Maldonado, Uruguay is the Liquidator of the Company.

MACLACHLAN & DENNIN LIMITED Registered Agent

NOTICE Ponto Final Limited #138,898 (“the Company”)

Pursuant to Section 102 (4) of the International Business Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011, notice is hereby given that Ponto Final Limited: a) Is in dissolution b) Commenced dissolution on the 24th day of December, 2018; and c) GUSTAV0 DANIEL CHAVES MANTARAS whose address is MIGUEL DEL CORRO 1471, MONTEVIDEO, URUGUAY is the Liquidator of the Company.

CILTrust International Limited Registered Agent

NOTICE Ponto Final Limited #138,898 (“the Company”)

Pursuant to Section 102 (4) of the International Business Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011, notice is hereby given that Ponto Final Limited: a) Is in dissolution b) Commenced dissolution on the 24th day of December, 2018; and c) GUSTAV0 DANIEL CHAVES MANTARAS whose address is MIGUEL DEL CORRO 1471, MONTEVIDEO, URUGUAY is the Liquidator of the Company.

CILTrust International Limited Registered Agent

6 JAN

2019

Year of Decision

By Gilroy Usher, Sr. “Two roads diverged in a forest, and I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.”

- Robert Frost In a referendum on April 10th of this year Belizeans will decide by majority vote whether or not to take the Guatemalan claim of Belize to the ICJ for a final settlement. Proponents of a Yes vote, say that Belize has an ironclad case and nothing to lose, because in deciding the matter the ICJ only has to consider the validity of the 1859 boundary treaty that was signed between Belize and Guatemala. They say the treaty is valid despite Guatemala’s claim that it is null and void due to Britain’s failure to build a road from Guatemala City to its Caribbean coast as stated in the treaty. According to those proponents , in international law a treaty can only be nullified with the agreement of both parties who were signatures to it, and failure to carryout out all the things in a boundary treaty does not make the agreed boundary void. Advocates for a Yes vote also say that Belize has a solid claim to all its territory as outlined in the 1859 treaty by right of settlement, because only Belize and not Guatemala can prove effective possession of our lands for over two centuries.

Proponents of a NO vote in the referendum fear we might lose territory or seas at the ICJ. They also argue that since all courts consider equity ICJ judgments are subjective and unpredictable.

Proponents of a No vote further argue that since the 1859 treaty was used to define our borders at Independence there is no need to ask the ICJ to determine the borders of the country.

Guatemala has always insisted that Belize cede land to settle the dispute.

Attempts to settle the dispute first with the Webster Proposals and decades later with the Heads of Agreement were both rejected by the Belizean people, because either of those solutions would have resulted in Guatemala getting a portion of our land and control over some affairs of the country. Advocates for a No vote believe that the United States, Britain, and other powerful countries will use the ICJ as a cover to give Guatemala a portion of Belize to settle the dispute which originated between our mother country, England and Guatemala. Your vote will be crucial on

21

THE BELIZE TIMES

April 10.

Turning onto social issues, 143 Belizeans were murdered last year. Prior to 2018 each year for the past fifteen years we have lost over 140 of our loved ones due to murders. 2018 was also a record year for corruption as well as the scarcity of jobs, land, and proper housing.

The year was also historic for extremely high cost of living due to endless taxes.

Together those totally unacceptable social conditions deny Belizeans a better life in safe and secure communities. In his New Year’s message the Prime Minister paid his routine lip service to those urgent needs of the people, because unlike the people of Sudan, who are getting positive results after they took to the streets to protest the high cost of bread and other basic necessities in that Northeast African country, Belizeans are generally quiet people.

For betterment in this country the trade unions, the Chamber of Commerce, the churches, the NGO’s, and other concerned organizations need to unite and take to the streets daily for weeks, if that is what it will take to get the administration to understand that they must address the need for jobs, land, proper housing, lower cost of living , less corruption, and communities with less crime in meaningful ways for us to enjoy the better life we all deserve.

The youths of Belize must also assist with nation building.

Resolving the Guatemalan claim and dealing with the many social issues that plaque the country will be much easier with maximum participation of the young people of this nation. We must therefore find ways to motivate more youths to register to have their voices heard in the referendum on April 10 as well as in future municipal and national elections.

Hardworking and honest councilors Aisha Gentle, Javier Castellonos, Allan Pollard, Micah Goodin, and Ryan Elijio are proof that young people can make a difference in the community when they participate in the democratic process and take interest in the affairs of their country.

Whether or not we take the Guatemalan dispute to the ICJ, agitate for betterment in the next twelve months, or invite maximum participation of the youths in the development of Belize are decisions we as people must make in 2019.

NOTICE BravelIQ Ventures Inc. #153,371 (“the Company”)

Pursuant to Section 102 (4) of the International Business Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011, notice is hereby given that BravelIQ Ventures Inc.: a) Is in dissolution b) Commenced dissolution on the 28th day of December 2018; and c) CILTrust International Inc. whose address is 35 Barrack Road, Third Floor, Belize City, Belize is the Liquidator of the Company.

CILTrust International Limited Registered Agent

NOTICE MARIT LIMITED #166,661 (“the Company”)

Pursuant to Section 102 (8) of the International Business Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011, notice is hereby given that MARIT LIMITED has been dissolved as at 26th December, 2018 and has been struck off the Register of International Business Companies.

CILTrust International Limited Registered Agent

NOTICE STERLING CORPORATION II A.S. #127,897 (“the Company”)

Pursuant to Section 102 (8) of the International Business Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011, notice is hereby given that STERLING CORPORATION II A.S. has been dissolved as at 20th December, 2018 and has been struck off the Register of International Business Companies.

CILTrust International Limited Registered Agent

NOTICE WINKI SUCCESS LIMITED #78,620 (“the Company”)

Pursuant to Section 102 (8) of the International Business Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011, notice is hereby given that WINKI SUCCESS LIMITED has been dissolved as at 20th December, 2018 and has been struck off the Register of International Business Companies.

CILTrust International Limited Registered Agent

15 22

6 JAN

THE BELIZE TIMES

Depression Signs You Should Look Out For

Depression can be just a mood for a few days, or it can be a major depressive disorder. The mental disorder is described as having at least two consecutive weeks of low mood that is present in almost any situation. But there are always some depression signs you should be on the lookout for.

1. Shopping Sprees If you’re shopping out of control and spending a ton of money on yourself, it might be a side effect of being depressed.

Some people who are depressed like to do a lot of compulsive buying to act as a distraction or a way to boost their self-esteem.

This type of “retail therapy” is usually short-lived, and it doesn’t really help the underlying depression. Shopping sprees can also be a sign of mania in bipolar disorder.

2. Heavy Drinking Almost a third of people who are suffering from depression end up abusing alcohol.

If you feel like you need to drink in order to cope with anxiety or depression, you could be one of these people.

It might seem like it gives you a lift when you’re down, but overdoing it can make depression infinitely worse.

3. Forgetting Things Depression might be a reason for feeling foggy or forgetful. Studies have shown that depression and stress can actually raise your body’s levels of cortisol.

This ends up shrinking and weakening the part of the brain that is associated with memory and learning.

The connection between depression and memory loss is a lot worse for older people, but treating depression can actually help with any depression-related memory issues.

4. Internet Usage Using the internet too much or diving into virtual realities like video games can be a sign of depression. There is a link between high levels of depression and excessive use of the Internet.

People who overuse the Internet tend to try and keep their minds busy spending time on pornography, online communities, and gaming.

5. Binge Eating In 2010, a study out of the University of Alabama found out that depression in young adults usually came with sudden weight gain around their waist, which raises the risk of heart disease.

6. Not Eating On the other side of the spectrum, a lack of hunger can be a sign of depression as well. Some people aren’t able to eat for days on end but will hardly ever notice.

This causes more and more excuses to nap, and napping all day long can end up causing someone to be extremely sad.

7. Shoplifting Studies have shown that about a third of all shoplifters actually suffer from depression. People who feel powerless and insignificant can often turn to something like shoplifting to make them feel both powerful and important.

Shoplifting small items can also provide a rush to go against depression and the “numb” feeling that comes with it.

When someone shoplifts because they are depressed, the feelings they get are usually more important than whatever item they’re stealing.

8. Back Pains If you have a backache that won’t quit and you’ve been feeling down, that might be some signs of depression.

One study showed that almost 42% of people dealing with chronic lower back pain have experienced depression before their back pain even started.

Depression can often go ignored or completely undiagnosed because people don’t really associate it with aches and pains, so if you’re dealing with some pain and sadness, it’s definitely something to keep an eye on.

9. Risky Sexual Behaviors Some people use sex to cope with their depression or stress. Some interesting signs of depression can be increased promiscuity, sexual obsessions, infidelity, and high-risk behavior like unsafe sex.

Things like this can also reflect different problems with that person’s impulse control. It can hint towards bipolar disorder as well.

10. Exaggerating Emotions People who are depressed usually are connected to not having many emotions, but sometimes they actually show too much. Depressed people can be irritable or explosive out of nowhere.

A depressed person might express exaggerated feelings of hopelessness, worry, fear, and sadness. The key is to look for the sudden changes in behaviors.

If a person is usually pretty emotionally calm, then they begin blowing up out of nowhere regularly, depression is always a possibility.

11. Gambling Problems Gambling can provide a feeling that makes someone feel excited and revved up, but (obviously) it comes at a cost. If you gamble more than just recreationally, you might suffer from gambling addictions or depression.

Gamblers with problems are more likely to be depressed and abuse alcohol. No matter how good the rush is when you gamble, it’s not worth losing.

12. Smoking Studies have shown that depression doubles your risk of smoking. More than a pack a day is common when it comes to smokers with depression.

While depressed smokers are less likely to quit, that doesn’t mean they can’t. There are plenty of quitting programs out there, and many of them use the same techniques used to beat depression.

13. Personal Appearance Even if you weren’t necessarily someone who spent a lot of time on their appearance in the first place, not taking care of your personal appearance is a sign of depression.

The more you let yourself go, the higher the chances are of you being depressed.

Simple things like not fastening your seatbelt can also be something to look out for. This self-neglect can be a sign of depression and low self-esteem.

14. Daydreaming If you’ve been daydreaming a lot, that might be a sign of depression. It could be about anything from becoming a movie star to falling in love to being the boss of someone.

Daydreaming can sometimes find solutions to a problem, but more often than not it’s actually linked to signs of a low mood.

15. Indecisiveness On average we make over 70 conscious decisions each and every day. Research done

by Columbia University showed that when we’re depressed, the cognitive processes that make these decisions take a big hit and are significantly slowed down. “Little things we normally don’t think twice about suddenly become weighty decisions,” one professor said.

2019

NOTICE BLUECAREY INC. #161,177 (“the Company”)

Pursuant to Section 102 (4) of the International Business Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011, notice is hereby given that BLUECAREY INC.: a) Is in dissolution b) Commenced dissolution on the 28th day of December 2018; and c) ALFONSA DONAIRE whose address is C. Prat de la Creu, 83, Baixos, AD500 Andorra La Vella is the Liquidator of the Company.

MACLACHLAN & DENNIN LIMITED Registered Agent

NOTICE ATENAS INTERNATIONAL LTD. #135,294 (“the Company”)

Pursuant to Section 102 (4) of the International Business Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011, notice is hereby given that ATENAS INTERNATIONAL LTD.: a) Is in dissolution b) Commenced dissolution on the 28th day of December 2018; and c) PRIMITIVO GIL whose address is El Maranon, B Av., 03rd November Street, Centenario Tower, Ap. 4-17, Panama City, Republic of Panama is the Liquidator of the Company.

MACLACHLAN & DENNIN LIMITED Registered Agent

NOTICE VITRI HOLDINGS S.A. #161,232 (“the Company”)

Pursuant to Section 102 (4) of the International Business Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011, notice is hereby given that VITRI HOLDINGS S.A.: a) Is in dissolution b) Commenced dissolution on the 28th day of December 2018; and c) ALFONSA DONAIRE whose address is C. Prat de la Creu, 83, Baixos, AD500 Andorra La Vella is the Liquidator of the Company.

MACLACHLAN & DENNIN LIMITED Registered Agent

NOTICE ANSTON FINANCE LTD. #10,859 (“the Company”)

Pursuant to Section 102 (4) of the International Business Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011, notice is hereby given that ANSTON FINANCE LTD.: a) Is in dissolution b) Commenced dissolution on the 28th day of December 2018; and c) CILTrust International Inc. whose address is 35 Barrack Road, Third Floor, Belize City, Belize is the Liquidator of the Company.

CILTrust International Limited Registered Agent

6 JAN

2019

THE BELIZE TIMES

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICES

Notice is hereby given that Maxie Staines is applying for a Night Club Liquor License to be operated at ”Maxie’s Restaurant & Lounge” located at # 3645 Philip Goldson Highway, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Juan Magana Jr./Tatiana Bejerano & Glenda Moreno are applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at ”D Spot Neighborhood Pub” located at # 5 Corner Hopkins Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Maxie Staines is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at ”Maxie’s Restaurant & Lounge” located at # 3645 Philip Goldson Highway, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Jahed Ahmed Jony is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at ”Mid-town Grocery Shop” located at # 63 Albert Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Mirna Portillo is applying for a Night Club Liquor License to be operated at ”Eruption Night Club” located in Ladyville Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Kent Lam is applying for a Hotel Liquor License to be operated at ”Golden Tree Hotel” located on Coney Drive, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Bin Siu is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at ”Bin Game Room” located at # 5 Euphrates Avenue, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Enna Guadalupe Ek is applying for a Malt & Cider Liquor License to be operated at ”L & B Cool Spot” located in Scotland Halfmoon Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Daysi Orozco is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at ”Aroma de Mujeres” located at Ladyville/Burrell Boom Junction, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Premier Duty Free Ltd. is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at ”Premier Duty Free Ltd.” located in Fort Street Tourism Village, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Premier Duty Free Ltd. is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at ”Premier Duty Free Ltd.” located at Philip Goldson International Airport, Ladyville Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Ariola Morales is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at ”K & R Fruits & Vegetable Shop” located at # 8556 Curl Thompson Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Orlando Medina is applying for a Malt & Cider Liquor License to be operated at ”Slim’s Bar & Grill” located at Miles 24 Philip Goldson Highway, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Elvira Briceno is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at ”San Francisco Restaurant & Bar.” located at # 5 San Francisco Street, Orange Walk City, Orange Walk District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Scott Haylock is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at ”S & S Shop” located at # 121 Signa Yorke, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Emeteria Gongora is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at ”D-3 Sisters Shop” located in San Jose Palmar Village, Orange Walk District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Hussein A. Assaad is applying for a Malt & Cider Liquor License to be operated at ”Sahara Grill” located at Miles 3.5 Philip Goldson Highway, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Elizandro De La Rosa is applying for a Malt & Cider Liquor License to be operated at ”El Paso.” located in San Felipe Village, Orange Walk District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

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Notice is hereby given that Wen Jie Luo is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at ”Resource Supermarket” located in Carmelita Village, Orange Walk District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Mark Nugent is applying for a Malt & Cider Liquor License to be operated at ”Picame Cool Spot” located on Jamaica Street, Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Agustin Pott is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at ”El Trono Shop” located in Guinea Grass Village, Orange Walk District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Xin Hua Zhu is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at ”Golden Sky Store” located at #32 Cemetery Road, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Prayer To The Holy Spirit O Holy Spirit, You who are the Fountainhead of all knowledge, Who Illuminate the path way which enables me to reach my goal. You Who shares your Divine gift permitting me to forgive and forget past insults and injustices, and Who are always at my side within reaching distance.

I desire in this short supplication to thank You for all that You have done for me; and to assure You once more that I never want to be separated from You under any circumstances, no matter what the incentive. I want to be with You, I along with my loved ones, cradled in Your unending love. Thank You for your never-failing kindness towards me and those I call my own.

(Prayer to be offered for three consecutive days: Faith in The Holy Spirit will cause Him to respond to your request no matter how difficult the problem might be. Publish prayer as soon as request has been Granted .)

Thank You Holy Spirit.

F.H.U.

BONSELIND ELEANOR ARNOLD

God looked around his garden, and found an empty space, and then he looked down upon this earth and saw your tired face. He put his arms around you and lifted you to rest.

God’s garden must be beautiful, he only takes the best!

It is with saddened hearts that we announce the untimely passing of a remarkable mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend.

She was predeceased by her Parents – Mrs. Virginia Arnold and Walter Tuckfield Arnold.

Common-law Spouse - Mr. Daniel Nathaniel Brooks Daughter: Ms. Marion Brooks Sisters: Eileen Arnold, Alma Arnold Grandchildren: Myron Smith and Kent Brooks Jr. Left to mourn her passing are her beloved children: Daughters: Ms. Virginia Smith, Ms. Irma Graham, Ms. Norma Graham, Judith Brooks.

Sons: Mr. Sidney Evans, Mr. Robert Solis aka Goose, Mr. Alrick Smith, Mr. Daniel Brooks Jr. and Mr. Kent Brooks.

Sisters: Ms. Elaine Arnold and Mrs. Delvorine Hicks of the U.S.A Brother: Mr. Lester Baron Arnold Caregivers: Irma and Anwar Beloved Grandchildren: Carolyn Willis Casey, Vanessa and Anwar Grant, Alrick Jr., Devon, Deidra, Ixchell, Leon, Dijon, Tamika, Julissa, Nerissa, Keshawn and Karif Smith, Ian Monge and Victor Rodriguez Jr., Damon Thompson, Ishaida, Kadeejah, Jahward and Jahswan Brooks, Courtney Brooks, Shanice Guy, Tyra Bradley and Orel Guy She is also survived by 11 great grandchildren and a host of nieces nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, cousins and numerous friends.

THERE WILL BE NO WAKE FUNERAL SERVICES WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY JANUARY 5TH 2018 AT ST LUKE’S METHODIST CHURCH ON MAHOGANY STREET BELIZE CITY. The body will be received at 12p.m. for funeral services at 1 p.m. intermittent follows at Lord Ridge Cemetery.

The attention of all relatives and friends is called to this announcement.

“The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.” Psalm 18:2 May she Rest in Peace and Rise in Glory.

WE LOVE YOU!

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THE BELIZE TIMES

6 JAN

2019