National Commission for UNESCO 2011-2012

On Friday, January 21, orientation for the Belize National Commission for UNESCO 2011-2012 was held in the Conference Room of the ITVET campus in Belize City. The commission is selected on a biannual basis and 2010 marked the end of the term for the previous commission.

The main objective of the commission is to submit project proposals to UNESCO for the development of education, science, communications and culture in Belize. The executive members of the commission are Hon. Patrick Faber, Minister of Education and Youth as the President; Hon. Pablo Marin, Minister of Health, and Ms. Diane Haylock, President of NICH, as Vice-Presidents and Dr. David Brown as Secretary-General of the commission.

At the commencement ceremony, Hon. Patrick Faber thanked the members of the 2009-2010 commission for their service. They were presented with Certificates of Participation. Faber explained that though the work of the commission would be considered an improvement to previous years, it is not where it should be. For the sake of continuity and progression, the members of the previous commission were reappointed to serve two more years. Faber said, “It is an opportunity for us to make a fresh start.”

One major problem that faced the commission was inadequate communication. The commission is further divided into five technical committees that select additional members from the community. Those committees are committed to Education, Information and Communication, Social and Human Sciences, Natural Science and Culture. It has been a difficult challenge to keep in touch with all members of the commission and committees. Faber challenged Secretary General Brown to do a better job this time “so that we have new problems in these two years and not old ones.” Despite the challenges that faced the commission, they were able to develop meaningful proposals. Those proposals saw UNESCO providing aid to Belize for teacher education and cultural preservation.

Whatever the successes or failures are, everyone will confirm that the number one issue between Belize and UNESCO is the status of our Barrier Reef as a World Heritage Site. The masses believe that it is a topic that the commission has not addressed aggressively enough. However, Dr. Brown explained that the commission has assigned a technical committee to address the concerns raised by UNESCO. Dr. Brown believes that the steps we have taken are enough to hold off UNESCO from delisting the Barrier Reef as a World Heritage Site and the commission should be responding to UNESCO’s letter sometime soon. The core issue of offshore oil exploration is a more sticky issue. Faber explained that though concessions have been granted, no company has been given the green light to explore. Environmental safety will be a key factor in the decision to permit exploration or not. Faber said, “There has to be compliance with the laws that govern the environment in this country. while environmental safety is a key concern, Belize will not be bullied away from tapping into our resources. Faber said of UNESCO’s stance: “there can be no negotiations if there is a hard-line position to begin with.”

The other members of the commission are Mr. Alan Genitty, Mrs. Joy Ysaguirre, Ms. Icilda Humes, Dr. John Morris, Dr. Aaron Lewis, Dr. Jamie Awe, Ms. Silvaana Udz, Mr. George Myvette, Ms. Velda Aguet, Ms. Christine Smith, Mr. Peter “Titiman” Flores, Mr. Martin Alegria and Mr. John Flowers.       
             
The first session for the new commission was held immediately after the commencement ceremony on Friday.

-1 1 0 40 1/27/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane D. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 1/27/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 965 robots= author= 2785 PUP 2011- Power Struggle, Sex Scandals and Back Biting pup-2011-power-struggle-sex-scandals-and-back-biting “There is no old PUP or new PUP. There is one PUP!”

There is no low that is too low for the People’s United Party. Scandals in their organization don’t peak the interest of the Belizean people or even the media anymore. Though they have been rejected continuously by the Belizean people since 2006, they have displayed no desire to change their wicked ways. Fortunately, most of their recent plots and cons have been targeted with and against each other. Their 2011 story thus far is one of power struggle, sex scandals and good old PUP back biting.

Over the weekend the PUP held two endorsement gatherings. Arthur Saldivar for Belize Rural North and Rodwell Ferguson for Stann Creek West (Those names were not inserted to get a laugh out of readers. They are the actual candidates). Saldivar’s candidacy poisoned the stomachs of his fellow PUPs so much so that two senior executives have threatened to resign. One of those executives is a Deputy Party Leader, the $40 million spoil beans project Silva whose reason for threatening resignation is that the party is back to business as usual. Back to business as usual? Was there ever a change?

The two execs, Dan Silva and Hugh O’Brien were not the highest ranked in the party who were disinterested in Saldivar’s endorsement. The Party Leader himself travelled from Orange Walk pass Belize Rural North on his way to Stann Creek West to attend the endorsement funeral of Rodwell. Saldivar got the leper and former party leader as a consolation prize. The only people happier than Rodwell and Arthur on the occasion of their endorsement were their potential election opponents because come election day the serial caller’s line will be cut and Rado will get beaten like a drum once again.

Moving away from the power struggle for just a bit to some very disturbing sexual scandal. It has been widely reported that the cross dressing San Pedro correspondent for the radio station with the best hurricane coverage in Belize was caught in the damned sexual act playing sailors with the first son of the People’s United Party inside the boss’s home. Obviously Johnny didn’t teach his son about Jack and Jill, Adam and Eve or Joe and Jane. In an effort not to gross out our readers, we’ll leave those “happy” folks alone.

Did we say something about back biting? Oh, we’d like to thank our friends in the PUP for the information that made this piece possible. -1 1 0 40 1/27/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 1/27/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 2054 robots= author= 2786 Energy drink and vegetables cost market vendors over $24G energy-drink-and-vegetables-cost-market-vendors-over-24g On Tuesday, January 25, two Bladden Villagers of the Toledo District Raul Riviera and Angel Pachan got the shock of their lives in court when they were fined $24,330.00 for having in their possession illegal vegetables and energy drinks. The villagers were found in possession of 15 sacks of cabbage, four sacks of white onion, two sacks of carrots, a sack of purple onion, two sacks of potatoes, three cases of sweet peppers and 30 cases of Monster energy drink.

On October 14, 2010 at about 8:45 a.m., Adrian Gibson, Custom Examiner Grade 2 was the leader of a patrol team that was travelling on the Northern Highway heading towards Sandhill when they spotted the White Chevy two-door truck on the side of the road. Gibson says he noticed a man in the driver’s seat and another man standing outside the vehicle.  He stopped to investigate the vehicle and noticed that the men were acting suspiciously.

Upon investigating he learnt that a third person had exited the vehicle to urinate. The team waited for five minutes for the third person to exit the nearby bushy area but to no avail and that’s when Gibson ordered two members of his team to go with the other defendant to find the third man. Ten minutes later, the team exited the busy area but they had no luck finding the alleged third suspect. His name was later learnt to be Jose Flores who was never found or charged along with the two men.

A search of the truck led to the discovery of the vegetables and 30 cases of Monster drinks but neither of the men had any documents or receipt to show that they had paid for them. Both men claimed to Custom’s Personnel that the items belonged to Flores.

The items have an original value of $8,110.00 and a mark-up value of $2,330.00 and that’s just how much the Comptroller of Customs demanded of the two defendants who were caught. It was a rather hard decision in court for the men who pleaded guilty because they had been asking the court for a number of adjournments because they wanted to settle out of court with the Custom Department. But after Customs had given the men numerous occasions to settle out of court, they refused to do so. On Tuesday they were hoping to cut a deal with the Customs Department; however, that was no longer possible.

Magistrate Aretha Ford, who dealt with the matter in front of the Legal Advisor for Customs Tracey Sosa, informed the men that they were fined $24,330 which they must pay by July 24 of this year in default two years imprisonment. The 1989 White Chevy two-door vehicle was forfeited.
Both Riviera and Pachan were jointly charged with possession of uncustomed goods. They were fined three times the value on the goods. -1 1 0 39 1/27/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 1/27/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 3 0 1171 robots= author= 2787 Mother of 3 children accused of child neglect mother-of-3-children-accused-of-child-neglect- Mary Tatum, 28-year old domestic of #23 Freetown Road appeared in Court #5 where she was read a single charge of child neglect. The charge arose after three children were left home alone by their mother while a candle was lit inside the home that was padlocked from outside on Friday, January 2. Acting on information received of the three minors left inside the home, police visited #23 Freetown Road at around 7:15p.m. where they peeked into a back window of the house and confirmed that three small children were left inside the home. The children are ages four years, two years and one year old.

Police say that when they visited the house it was padlocked from outside and there was a candle burning inside the house. They managed to get inside the house by climbing through a back window and that’s where they noticed that there was no electricity inside the home and that a candle was lit in the middle of the room. The oldest child, age four, was found lying on an old sofa while the two year old child was sleeping on a mattress set on the floor while the baby boy, age one, was sleeping inside his crib.

The three children were taken out of the home through the back window and taken to the Queen Street Police Station. Pictures were taken of the home where they were left alone. Social Workers were called in to take care of the children.

Police investigation led to the detention of the mother who visited the police station and found them in police custody. Police say that the mother told them that she left the children inside the house to go to an unknown destination. She also told police that she has been separated from her common-law husband for the last two months and that she was a single mother caring for her three children. While being interviewed by the Social Services personnel, the mother claimed that she had gone to sell a cellular phone chip.

When she appeared in court she was offered self bail in the sum of $400. She quickly signed the bail and is due back on March 4. The three children have since been placed in a children’s home. -1 1 0 39 1/27/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 1/27/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 1014 robots= author= 2788 Arthur Young, 36, charged with escape arthur-young-36-charged-with-escape

Two weeks ago, well known figure Arthur Young, 36, got off a charges of keeping prohibited material and drug trafficking and possession of a controlled drug. He and Errol “Butchy” Haynes were jointly charged after a search was conducted at a home in Vista del Mar and police found a silencer, drugs and weapons’ magazines. Young was not present at the time of the search and charges were withdrawn from against him.

On Monday, January 24, the 36-year-old was back in court. He appeared in Court #5 where he was read the single charge of escape from lawful custody.  He was unrepresented but pleaded not guilty and was offered bail in the sum of $1,500 which he met.

Police say that on Friday, January 14, Young escaped after he was told he was wanted in connection with a murder. That murder is said to be that of Patrick Kerr, who was gunned down on Christmas Day, December 25, 2010 whilst at a food stall on Freetown Road. Police claim that at about 8:00p.m. on Friday, January 14, Young was escorted to the CIB area and was informed that he was wanted in connection with the murder. Police say that after being informed by an officer for the reason of his detention, police claim he ran though the main door of the CIB office and managed to escape.

In court, Young denied even being detained by police so that means he could not be charged for escape when he was never actually detained. His case is set for trial on March 3 in Court #5. Police say they picked up Young on Friday, January 21 at about 4:08p.m. in the city. Our record of Young shows that he has been charged twice in the past for murder.  The most recent being the murder of Calvin Young in 2007, a charge which he managed to beat in early 2010. Young presently has a failure to report as a deportee charge pending. No one has been charged for Kerr’s murder.

-1 1 0 39 1/27/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 1/27/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 859 robots= author= 2789 Wesley Upper and All Saints’ boys continue to dominate primary schools basketball competition wesley-upper-and-all-saints-boys-continue-to-dominate-primary-schools-basketball-competition

The Belize City Primary Schools Basketball Competition continues at the Belize City Centre with highly competitive games in the boys division. On Monday, January 24, in the first of two female games played, Queen Square Anglican won over Central Christian School via the default route. In the second game, Holy Redeemer School defeated St. John’s Primary School by the score of 8 to 5. The top scorer for Holy Redeemer School was Indie Dixon with 4 points, while Ashley Bailey scored all 5 points for St. John’s Primary School.

In the first of three male games on schedule, Stella Maris won over Central Christian School via the default route.  In the second male game, St. Ignatius School defeated Belize Elementary School by the score of 44 to 28.  The top scorer for St. Ignatius School was Akeem Baptist with 15 points, while the top scorer for Belize Elementary School was Jeorge Perez with 11 points.

In the third and final game of the day, All Saints’ Anglican School continued on its winning path when it edged St. John’s Primary School by the score of 19 to 17. The top scorer for All Saints’ Anglican was Keyvon Evans with 11 points, and the top scorer for St. John’s Primary was Devon Arnold with 9 points. On Thursday, January 20, in the first female game, St. Martin’s De Porres defeated Ephesus Seventh Day Adventist School by the score of 5 to 2. The top scorer for St. Martin’s De Porres was Ambria Bermudez with 3 points, while the top scorer for Ephesus Seventh Day Adventist was Kiara Sabal with 2 points.

In the second female game, St. Luke Methodist School defeated Belize Elementary School by the score of 8 to 0. The top scorer for St. Luke Methodist was Jenelly Lamb with 6 points. In the first of four male games played, St. Martin’s De Porres defeated Caye Caulker Roman Catholic School by the score of 32 to 10. The top scorers for St. Martin’s De Porres were Clency Lopez and Ashton Pitts with 10 points each, and the top scorer for Caye Caulker Roman Catholic was Carlos Jimenez with 6 points.

In game two, Grace Primary School edged Ephesus Seventh Day Adventist by the score of 17 to 14. The top scorer for Grace Primary School was Rakeem Flowers with 7 points, while Antawn Palacio top scored for Ephesus Seventh Day Adventist with 10 points. In game three, St. Luke Methodist defeated Belize Elementary School by the score of 13 to 6. The top scorer for St. Luke Methodist was Alfred Wade with 7 points, while Jorge Perez top scored with 6 points for Belize Elementary School.

In the fourth and final male game of the afternoon, Wesley Upper upended Central Christian quite easily by the score of 23 to 12. The top scorer for Wesley Upper School was Fredrick Williams with 10 points and the top scorer for Central Christian was Anfernee Brooks with 12 points. On Wednesday January 19, five more games were played in the on-going Belize City Primary Schools Basketball Competition. In female game one, Holy Redeemer School defeated James Garbutt Seventh Day Adventist School by the score of 27 to 0. The top scorer for Holy Redeemer was Indie Dixon with 13 points.

In female game two, St. Luke Methodist defeated Ephesus Seventh Day Adventist by the score of 7 to 0. The top scorer for St. Luke Methodist was Jenelly Lamb with 6 points. In the third and final female game of the day, St. John’s Primary School won over Queen Square Anglican School via the default route.

In the first male game of the afternoon, Ephesus Seventh Day Adventist defeated Stella Maris School by the score of 19 to 16. The top scorer for Ephesus Seventh Day Adventist was Delbert Sabal with 10 points, while the top scorer for Stella Maris was Raheem Jones with 8 points. In the second male game, Wesley Upper School blasted James Garbutt Seventh Day Adventist School by the score of 46 to 6. The top scorer for Wesley Upper School was Shaquille Crawford with 22 points and the top scorer for James Garbutt was Shaquille Thurton with 4 points. -1 1 0 41 1/27/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 1/27/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 5 0 657 robots= author= 2790 Belize Defence Force in driver’s seat of Caribbean Motors Cup belize-defence-force-in-drivers-seat-of-caribbean-motors-cup The Belize Premier Football League Caribbean Motors Cup Tourney is quickly coming to an end. On Sunday January 23, the semi-final round in this year’s competition commenced with two games on the schedule. At the People’s Stadium in Orange Walk Town, the defending national football champions, the Belize Defence Force defeated the home team San Felipe Barcelona by the score of 2 to 1. The visiting Belize Defence Force got on the scoreboard first when Evan Mariano scored the 1st goal of the game in the 61st minute of play to give his team an early 1-0 lead.

The home team San Felipe Barcelona finally got on the scoreboard when Jose Cawich scored the equalizing goal in the 81st minute of play to put the score at 1-1. The winning goal, which was an own goal, was scored by Jose Cawich in the 84th minute of play to give the defending champions the Belize Defence Force the 2 to 1 victory.

Meanwhile, at the MCC Grounds here in Belize City, the home team FC Belize and the visiting Toledo Ambassadors played to a 1-1 draw. The home team FC Belize got on the scoreboard first when Delroy Andrews scored his team’s only goal in the 1st minute of play. The first half of the game ended 1-0 in favour of FC Belize. The visiting Toledo Ambassadors finally got on the scoreboard when Robert Muschamp scored the equalizing goal in the 63rd minute of play for the 1-1 draw.

The second and final games in the semi-final round will be played on Sunday, January 30, 2011. At the Toledo Union Field in Punta Gorda Town at 4:00 pm, FC Belize will see action against Toledo Ambassadors, and at the Norman Broaster Stadium in San Ignacio Town, the Belize Defence Force will march against San Felipe Barcelona. -1 1 0 41 1/27/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 1/27/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 4 0 730 robots= author= 2791 Brandon Cattouse captures Cycling Association Saturday race brandon-cattouse-captures-cycling-association-saturday-race The Belize Cycling Association held its usual Saturday race on January 22, 2011. The 26 miles event attracted some 54 riders in the open category. The race started from Mile 2 on the Western Highway to Mile 15 and then back to Mile 2.

At the end of 1:03:10, Brandon Cattouse of C-Ray Cycling was the first rider to cross the finish line to win first place in the event. Cattouse was then followed by Christian McNish of Benny’s Megabytes, third place went to Darnell Barrow of Santino’s Belize, fourth place went to Melvin Tillett also of Santino’s Belize and fifth place went to David Henderson of Team INDECO to round off the top five finishers.

The other top finishers in the open category included Erwin Middleton of Team INDECO, Brian Lopez also f Team INDECO, Byron Pope of Benny’s Megabytes, Deandy Ordonez of C-Ray Cycling and Mateo Cruz also of C-Ray Cycling. -1 1 0 41 1/27/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 1/27/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 3 0 701 robots= author= 2792 St. Agnes Anglican girls and St. Thomas Anglican boys are rural basketball champions st-agnes-anglican-girls-and-st-thomas-anglican-boys-are-rural-basketball-champions The Belize Rural Primary Schools Basketball competition was played on Tuesday January 25, 2011, at the Ladyville Village Basketball Court. In the female competition four schools namely: Hattieville Government, St. Agnes Anglican (La Democracia), Burrell Boom Methodist and St. Thomas Anglican (Double Head Cabbage) participated in the competition. Meanwhile, in the male competition the following schools Burrell Boom Methodist, Our Lady of the Way Roman Catholic (Ladyville), Hattieville Government, St. Agnes Anglican (La Democracia), Pancotta Primary (Sandhill), Lucky Strike Government, St. Thomas Anglican (Double Head Cabbage), and St. Stephen Anglican (Flowers Bank).

In the female championship game, St. Agnes Anglican defeated St. Thomas Anglican School by the score of 8 to 1. The top scorer for St. St. Agnes Anglican was Shamika Young with 6 points, while Kristy Terry scored the only point for St. Thomas Anglican. In the male championship game, Our Lady of the Way Roman Catholic (Ladyville) defeated Burrell Boom Methodist by the score of 30 to 14. The top scorer for Our Lady of the Way was James Morris with 13 points, while the top scorers for Burrell Boom Methodist School were Keshawn Ford and Matthew Haylock with 5 points.

In round three of the male competition, Burrell Boom Methodist eliminated Hattieville Government School by the score of 13 to 8. The top scorer for Burrell Boom Methodist School was Karl Malic with 4 points, while the top scorer for Hattieville Government School was Denfield Myvette with 4 points.
In round two, Our Lady of the Way Roman Catholic School defeated Lucky Strike Government School by the score of 22 to 10. The top scorer for Our Lady of the Way Roman Catholic was James Morris with 7 points, while the top scorer for Lucky Strike Government was Rasheed Bethran with 4 points.
In the second male game in round two, Hattieville Government School defeated St. Thomas Anglican School by the score of 15 to 4. The top scorers for Hattieville Government were Denfield Myvette and Patrick Tillett with 2 points each, and the top scorers for St. Thomas Anglican were Shaquille Theus and Jovaney Perez with 2 points each.

In the first male game of the day, Hattieville Government School defeated St. Agnes Anglican School by the score of 12 to 7. The top scorer for Hattieville Government School was Denroy Arnold with 7 points, while the top scorer for St. Agnes Anglican School was Antuwan McFadzean with 4 points.

In game two, Burrell Boom Methodist defeated St. Stephen’s Anglican School by the score of 21 to 4. The top scorer for Burrell Boom Methodist was Russhane Flowers with 10 points, and the top scorer for St. Stephen’s Anglican School was Marcel Nuegent with 4 points. In the third male game, Our Lady of the Way Roman Catholic defeated Ladyville Evangelical School by the score of 25 to 22. The top scorer for Our Lady of the Way was Ornan Avila with 11 points, and the top scorer for Ladyville Evangelical was Dudley Erskine with 17 points.

In game four, Lucky Strike Government School defeated Pancotto Primary School by the score of 11 to 2. The top scorer for Lucky Strike Government School was Andres Gonzales with 6 points and the top scorer for Pancotta Primary was Kenroy Davis with 2 points. Meanwhile, in the female competition in game one, St. Thomas Anglican defeated Burrell Boom Methodist by the score of 4 to 0. The top scorers for St. Thomas Anglican were Kristy Terry and Brentlee Garcia with 2 points each.

In game two, St. Agnes Anglican defeated Hattieville Government by the score of 21 to 0. The top scorer for St. Agnes Anglican was Vivica Young with 7 points. -1 1 0 41 1/27/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 1/27/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 676 robots= author= 2793 Wesley College boys perfect in three outings in Central Region High Schools football competition wesley-college-boys-perfect-in-three-outings-in-central-region-high-schools-football-competition The Central Region Secondary Schools Football Competition is fast winding down at the MCC Grounds here in Belize City and to date Wesley College boys will advance to the next round of play with a perfect 3-0 record. The competition continued on Monday January 21, with two games on the schedule. In the female competition, Gwen Lizarraga High School defeated Anglican Cathedral College by the score of 2 to 0. The goal scorers for Gwen Lizarraga High School were Deandra Coote and Faith Mejia.

In the male game, St. John’s College defeated Edward P. Yorke High School by the score of 4 to 1. The goal scorers for St. John’s College were Rasheed Pollard, Avian Crawford, Devaun Zuniga and Rejuan Baptist. The lone goal for Edward P. Yorke High School was scored by Ceton Martinez.
On Saturday January 22, in the first of two female games, Gwen Lizarraga High School won over Ladyville Technical High School via the default route. The score stands 3-0 in favour of Gwen Lizarraga High School.

In the second female game, St. Catherine Academy defeated its nemesis by the score of 3 to 0. The goals for St. Catherine Academy were scored by Christine Rodriguez, Tyra Moreira and Leera Carr. In the male game played, St. John’s College defeated Ladyville Technical High School by the score of 2 to 1. The goal scorers for St. John’s College were Rasheed Pollard and Melhelm Hernandez, while the goal scorer for Ladyville Technical was Wilson Franco.

On Friday January 21, in the female game played, Wesley College and its neighbour Anglican Cathedral College played to a 0-0 draw. In the male game, Wesley College continued on its winning path when it edged Gwen Lizarraga High School by the score of 2 to 1. The goal scorers for Wesley College were Michael Perrera and Khambrel Blease.

The competition continued on Thursday January 20, in the female competition, Gwen Lizarraga High School defeated Pallotti High School by the score of 1 to 0. The only goal of the game was scored by Deandra Coote. In the male game, Ladyville Technical won over Anglican Cathedral College via the default route. The score stands 3 to 0 in favour of Ladyville Technical High School.

On Wednesday January 18, in the female game, St. Catherine Academy and Anglican Cathedral College played to a 0 – 0 draw. In the male game, Gwen Lizarraga High School defeated Maud Williams Technical High School by the score of 5 to 0. The goals for Gwen Lizarraga High School were scored by Alfred Garnett (2), Akeem Jones, Raheem Flowers and Akeem Jones. -1 1 0 41 1/27/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 1/27/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 778 robots= author= 2794 Little Johnny One Note little-johnny-one-note

It’s relatively easy to be a Little Johnny one note. You only have to perfect the pitch of one note and you can sing it all day long.  That’s why the case made by special interest groups is always so clear. Special interest groups in Belize have certainly learned how to take their case to the public and in general this is a good thing since it improves transparency and guards against corruption.

However, the public too needs to learn how to deal with such information since special interest groups are usually less than transparent about their own potential advantage in the matters on which they make public pronouncements. In every case the public needs to assess the benefits sought by the special interests against the benefits to the Belizean people as a whole.
 
The undertakers can be unanimous against any increase in the price of grave spaces, citing the hardship it will impose on their customers.  However, they neglect to mention that the cost of the grave space is but a tiny fraction of the usual hefty cost of a funeral to their clients.  Naturally, their main concern is that their own profit margin might be adversely affected but this point never features in their public protests. 
 
The butane importers are naturally concerned about any shift in supply that threatens their position while BNE naturally wishes to be able to sell the butane gas that is a side product of its oil production and the government wants to keep prices as low as possible for the Belizean public.  This is not an issue that can be resolved on a talk show and the final arrangement will require flexibility and compromise from all of the players involved. 
 
The self-selected leaders of environmental groups answer only to their foreign funders and are amongst the most organised and vocal in pursuing their special interest. However, although most Belizeans support the goal of protecting the environment they do not necessarily support the narrow methods promoted by most of these environmental groups. If these groups were successful in getting sufficient signatures for a referendum they probably would not be pleased with the result. It’s much easier to get signatures than to win a referendum when all sides are able to make their case.

At the press conference held this week to protest against any drilling in protected areas the voices were shrill and uncompromising and there was no acknowledgement that oil production can be an important driver of economic growth for Belize and Belizeans.  In fact, a statement was made that the benefits of oil production in Belize accrue only to BNE. This is simply not true. It is true that the contractual arrangements made with BNE by Musa and the PUP are deeply flawed but they have been tightened up by the UDP under PM Barrow as far as the law allows so that Belize gains a steady and growing income from oil of over $50 million annually.

Without this income Belize might easily have defaulted on the PUP SuperBond with all the implications of the collapse of our fragile economy instead of the growth we are experiencing.  All new contracts signed with oil companies ensure a fairer share of revenues for Belize, revenues that can be applied to improve the quality of life of Belizeans.  The environmental groups demand that the government reneges on legal and constitutionally compliant contractual agreements (that it did not object to when they were made under the PUP) without mentioning the millions of dollars in litigation fees that this would cost and the hundreds of millions more in lost revenue. Instead of singing their one note of opposition to all development these groups should seek more productive ways in which they can protect the environment.

We all know that managing the Protected Areas properly is a difficult and costly undertaking, especially dealing with incursions from Guatemala. A more constructive approach would certainly be to negotiate that a share of any oil revenue derived from operations within Protected Areas be used to improve its management.  Another useful area of cooperation would be in devising and monitoring the special environmental safeguards that would attend any oil production in Protected Areas and possibly demarking certain vulnerable areas where no drilling would be allowed. 

Everyone has a right to represent a special interest group and to sing its one note song.  The public also has a right to know whose interests are being represented and the responsibility to decide whether they will dance to any particular song.

-1 10 0 56 1/27/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 1/27/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 195 robots= author= 2795 Duty Free Fuel for Cane Farmers duty-free-fuel-for-cane-farmers With the ever increasing cost of fuel in the country, the Government of Belize has once again decided to assist the cane farmers in the northern districts of Corozal and Orange Walk through a direct subsidy for the price that they pay for fuel.

Last year the government waived import duty and general sales tax to a maximum of $2.00 per gallon on 1,051,472 gallons of diesel for cane farmers. On Wednesday, February 2, the Prime Minister explained to the Guardian that this year the government will be absorbing the total cost of import duty and general sales tax on fuel for cane farmers. An exact figure for the subsidy is not yet ascertained but it is expected to exceed last year’s which stood at $2.5 million dollars.

Government’s assistance to the cane farmers in this fashion has been steadily increasing. Previously government assisted the farmers with 800 thousand gallons of fuel which was increased to 1,051,472 gallons last year and this year it has been further increased. 

This fuel allocation will assist cane farmers in the transportation of sugar cane to the Tower Hill Factory for the sugar cane crop year 2010/11. The controlling mechanism for the issuance of fuel will be set up by the Sugar Industry Control Board which will issue certificates to cane farmers specifying the amount of fuel that they should receive at the pump. -1 6 0 53 2/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 2090 robots= author= 2796 Cane Farmers thank PM for saving Sugar Industry cane-farmers-thank-pm-for-saving-sugar-industry

In a small but heartfelt gesture, the Cane Farmers’ Association expressed their appreciation to the Prime Minister Hon. Dean Barrow for rescuing the industry from the brink. On Tuesday, February 1, the Prime Minister was presented with a plaque of appreciation by representatives of the Cane Farmers’ Association.

The plaque was presented to the PM in recognition of his Government’s timely intervention in providing a BZ$10 Million loan to BSI to enable the current crop season to commence, as well as a grant of one million Belize dollars to the farmers.

The plaque reads:“Certificate of Appreciation: This certificate is awarded to the Honourable Dean Barrow, Prime Minister, for the support given to the cane farmers to provide the third cane payment and for your intervention to have the commencement of the 2010-2011 Crop Season. Also, we are very grateful for the One Million Dollar Grant (BZ$1,000,000) which was provided to the cane farmers as a donation.”

Presenting the plaque to the Prime Minister on behalf of the Cane Farmers’ Association was the Chairman of its Committee of Management, Alfredo Ortega. The Prime Minister, in response, expressed his thanks for the kind gesture and commended the farmers for the remarkable improvement in the quality of cane being delivered to the factory, thereby ensuring the long-term viability of the Sugar Industry.

-1 6 0 53 2/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 2020 robots= author= 2797 No oil exploration concession for OPIC’s Block no-oil-exploration-concession-for-opics-block

The government of Belize has decided not to issue any exploration concessions to the offshore block which was previously held by the Taiwanese state owned Overseas Petroleum Investment Corporation (OPCI). The decision came at a Cabinet meeting held on February 1. 

On January 26th, Oceana called on government to “not engage in any new offshore leasing until the matter is taken to referendum to the Belizean People.” The request came after OPIC gave up its exploration lease on 1.139 million acres of seabed off the coast of Belize between the Belize and Stann Creek districts. OPIC abandoned their quest for oil after seismic testing proved that the area did not have much potential for oil production.

In speaking with the Prime Minister on Wednesday February 2nd, he explained to the Guardian that after receiving the request by Oceana, the decision was taken to not issue the block previously held by OPIC until the environmental organization has had enough time to secure signatures for a referendum. And while Oceana will be given time to secure signature the Prime Minister explained that the position taken was government’s attempt to be as “evenhanded as possible in the matter.”

Audrey Matura Shepherd, Oceana’s vice president in Belize expressed great satisfaction at government’s decision and explained that Oceana’s position has always been one where the people should have a say on the exploration of oil in Belize. She added that Oceana sees government’s decision not to reissue the block as a “small victory” and continued saying that Oceana is open to discussions with government on the entire issue of oil exploration, more importantly she explained that the matter is one that should be taken to the people through a referendum. If the majority of Belizeans decide that offshore drilling is something they want then the wishes of the people must be respected. For the time being however Shepherd says Oceana will take the time to inform and educate the Belizean public on the issue of offshore oil drilling.

-1 6 0 54 2/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 432 robots= author= 2798 Institute of Mexico Presents: “Black and White” institute-of-mexico-presents-black-and-white Over 40 pieces of Mexico’s most prized collection of photographs are in Belize today. They are located at the Institute of Mexico in Belize City and are available to the public for viewing as part of the embassy’s “Mexico Black & White” exhibition.

The photographs are images of Mexico in the early 20th Century, the peak of the revolution. The pictures depict the Mexican people’s way of life as well as the political and social transformation from 1906 to 1923. Each of the pieces tells its own story. There is a picture of General Porfirio Diaz at Puerto Progreso. General Diaz was the President of Mexico from 1876 to 1911.

He is considered by most to have been a dictator and fell from power during the Mexican Revolution. There are also pictures of Francisco Madero, a politician, writer and revolutionary who succeeded Diaz as President of Mexico and served from 1911 to 1913. Also on the walls inside the institute are photographs of Emiliano Zapata, Jose Pino Suarez, Serapio Rendon and Felipe Carillo Puerto, the great socialist revolutionaries who fought for political freedom, land, gender and civil rights. The pieces are of such great quality that one can look into the eyes of the subject, travel through time and join in their fight.

The photographs are accompanied by a special video entitled “La Historia en la Mirada”. The footage was shot by a journalist who covered the Mexican Revolution and the material was preserved in the vaults of the Autonomous University of Mexico. It was recently transferred to digital format for restoration and editing. On November 18, 2010 the 78 minute film was released for the first time and viewed in various colleges, schools and institutions in Mexico and the United States.

The exhibit is open from February 2 to February 24 at the Institute of Mexico located at the corner of Barrack Road and Wilson Street in Belize City. The Institute is open to the general public Monday to Friday from 9a.m. to 5p.m. Entrance to the exhibition is free and all are invited to attend. Special invitations are extended to teachers of History and Spanish classes. -1 1 0 59 2/3/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane D. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 4 0 181 robots= author= 2799 National Agriculture Census 2011 national-agriculture-census-2011 On Tuesday, February 1, the Ministry of Agriculture launched the National Agriculture Census 2011. Farmers, members of NGO’s and representatives from the Embassy of Taiwan congregated inside the Training Room of the Coastal Zone Management HQ to applaud the Ministry for finally going through with the exercise.

The last agriculture census was in 1984-85. At that time agriculture was the number one player in the country’s economic system. 26 years later that is no longer the case. While there is nothing that could be done about the damages caused by natural disasters and climate change, with proper planning the agricultural sector could have been as lucrative as the tourism and king oil industry. Luckily for Belize, it is not too late to take advantage of the opportunities available in agriculture.

Phillip Tate is one of the census coordinators. He says that the main reason for executing a census is policy development. Currently there is a statistical system in the Ministry but that system is not equipped to provide adequate information to stakeholders, commercial banks, international funding agencies, researchers, etc. He says that funding agencies need such in depth information that can preview the future of the sector: “Such information will help them to decide whether or not to invest $10 million here or there.” The Acting Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry, Errol Gentle, says, “We will be able to better plan and make policies involving specific crops, specific livestock production system, the structure of agriculture in any particular area, inter-relationship between crop and livestock production, source of farm labour, farm typology studies, studies of small holdings and the list goes on.”

Therefore, every farmer in the country should expect a visit in the next two months. Roberto Harrison, Census Coordinator, says that there are screening questions to determine if an individual is a farmer. The screening section asks questions like: do you have half an acre of land or five heads of cattle? Such questions determine if one will be enumerated in the census. Once an individual is considered a farmer, that person will be asked to complete the questionnaire that includes seven sections. Those sections cover identification of the farm and farmer; total land and land tenure; use of land in terms of temporary crops and permanent crops; livestock, equipment used on the farm; agro forestry and family’s contribution to the development of the farm.

It will require 45-60 minutes to complete the questionnaire which is written in Standard English. The questions are extremely simple and the enumerators are well trained. Most of the enumerators were trained and employed under the Housing and Population Census exercise. Over 200 persons will be temporarily employed under the project and it is expected to cost over $700,000. Funding is being provided by the Food and Agricultural Association of the United Nations and the Government of Belize with technical support from the Statistical Institute of Belize. The census will commence next week in Corozal. Harrison believes the report will be available by September of this year.   -1 1 0 59 2/3/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane D. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 3 0 896 robots= author= 2800 “Celebration of Life, Not a mourning of Death” – The Eulogy for the late Lloyd Christopher Faber celebration-of-life-not-a-mourning-of-death-the-eulogy-for-the-late-lloyd-christopher-faber- You might never understand how much of an honor it is to speak about my father on this the occasion of his last farewell.  While his leaving will undoubtedly leave a void that may never, ever be filled, let us view it from an angle that the occasion of his death is a celebration of his life.  For if ever there was a man whom we could say lived a full life and a happy life, that man would be my father.
 
Lloyd Christopher Faber was born on a Monday at five in the morning.  It was the 26th day of July, nineteen hundred and twenty four.  That morning Flora George was the Matron on duty at the Belize City Hospital (I can only assume that if you know who Flora George was, you are pretty old, but that was his description).  His parents John and Agnes Faber nee Gentle were happy that they had at last brought forth a son after three girls had come before, Olive, Joyce and Constance.  (All of whom are now deceased). 
 
Tragedy would strike his family soon after, in 1929, while he was only five, with the passing of his father who was a small contractor/carpenter.  He had been working on the elevation of a wooden house on Pickstock Street, it collapsed and proved fatal.  He therefore grew up under the watchful eye of his mother, older sisters and extended family members.  His mother would later remarry the late Walter Bennett, a man whom was deceased before I was born but whom I feel like I know so well since we lived in his house on King Street and my dad kept his walking cane many years after his death to warm our behinds when he felt the need to.  (I’m not sure what became of that cane… but for the sake of children today, I hope it was lost).

As a boy he attended St. John’s School which was at the time situated across from the Cathedral where the west side compound of the Anglican Cathedral College now sits.  Upon completing the sixth standard, he became a pupil teacher under Mr. Bowie for a short while.  These were truly his formative years as he would not go on to high school but through this medium attained the basics in the three R’s that would later prove essential to his life’s career. 
 
The young Lloyd was a mischievous boy, and almost as if the stories were lifted from off the pages of the adventures of Tom Sawyer or Huckleberry Finn, he would recount the stories of his childhood mischief that sent his mother, grandmother and aunts in a quandary.  Like the time he stole 50 cents from his mother, went out to have a good time, bought all the popcorn and honey bun he could stomach, paid for matinee for him and his friend and got caught because he couldn’t spend it all and hid the change under the sill of the house where his mother found it.
 
He enjoyed his young life and was loved by all his family especially his nieces and nephews to whom he was known as Uncle Lloydie.  They enjoyed receiving rides on his bicycle carriage. 

In his teen years he was encouraged to learn a trade and became an apprentice carpenter under Leopold “Poly” Smith, known to him as Don Pold, and Theodore Pilgrim who was a cabinet maker.   He became close to Mr. Pilgrim and made his breakfast up until the day Mr. Pilgrim got married.  He would later be like a big brother to the Pilgrim children Yvonne (mother-in-law of our Bishop) and Harry Pilgrim.   He learned well and did correspondence courses in his trade and quickly became a master tradesman.  He headed operations at a sawmill owned by Wahib Habet in San Luis in the Mountain Pine Ridge area.  He was head foreman of Wilhelm Arnold’s Construction Company for many years and later worked on his own as an independent contractor.  Our family evening drives around Belize City would normally take the route of the projects he worked on and was always very proud of.  They included buildings on the Palotti compound, the St. John’s Extension on Regent Street, and Atlantic Bank.  In the early 80’s he was given the job to build the Spindrift Hotel in San Pedro and worked alongside the foreign construction company of Schrader and Camargo to build what is today the Princess Hotel and Casino.
  
He was liked by many who offered him contract work for the simple reason that he was an honest to goodness individual and did whatever he did to the best of his ability.  These qualities saw him forging quality work relationships with A. C. Duncan of the Belize Estate and Produce Company, Karl Ayres of Bowen and Bowen, Lady Wolfson and Mr. Tattersfield from the corner of Dean and Regent Streets and of course the Anglican Diocese of Belize; his last project being the Anglican Theological Institute building in Belmopan.
  
In 1944 he married Lois Neal and that union produced seven children:  Geneveive Faber Gill Bennet (known to us as Pinky) mother of Vaughan and Winzel Gill (Bobby and Buchy) who grew up like his children in the household, John Faber, Ronald Faber (now deceased), Audrey Faber, Lloyd Faber Jr., Daphne Faber, and Lois Faber Highsmith (known to us as Kitty).  He later united with Victoria Acosta and became father to Ruth Faber Temple, David Faber, and Carol Faber.  Together with my mother, Elizabeth Brown, he produced Paul Faber, yours truly and his baby, Andrew.  While to many this may not prove to be the most attractive structure of family, for him, he could not be more of a proud father.

I remember one Sunday morning right here at the Cathedral when, as we say in Creole, “somebadi throw word atta him” about the kinda life he was living; he turned to the lady and said “Shut up yuh mouth…”what you are saying might be true but I’m not ashamed of my children… see them here… 1, 2, 3 … I’m not ashamed of them and I’m trying to train them in the right way by bringing them to church. 
 
My dad was no angel but he loved all his children dearly and while all of us are not able to say that he was there for us in every way a father should be for a child, we all agree that he was a positive influence in our lives, whether it meant his insistence on us having God as the center of our lives, all of us getting an education or imparting to us the skills of his trade which has served most of his male children (myself being that exception as I’m sorry to report that I may still not be able to drive a nail in a piece of wood completely home).  Before he died we planned his funeral and he asked me to do his eulogy, a task that I wasn’t sure I was completely up to, but I agreed to.  I asked him what would he have me say about him, a pretty story or the truth? … his response, “Son, tell the truth!”
 
His service to the church was also central to his life.  Such service began as early as when he was five years old when in his own words, Dr. Hogbin, the rector of the cathedral said to him “come here little boy” robed him in a cassock and took him to the altar.  He has recounted this story many times boasting about being the rector’s MC at such an early stage.  From then, there was no turning back. He has served in several capacities to the clergy – to many bishops and priests, literally training several in the craft of the ministry; most acolytes and lay ministers serving in this Cathedral church, myself included can say that he was their teacher.  He was the most senior licensed Lay Minister working, in the words of our Lord Bishop “almost to the day he drew his last breath.  He has led the people of God in worship in just about every congregation in the diocese, often filling in for the priest and going to places others were not as inclined to venture.

He was especially fond of his home church of St. John’s Cathedral.  He was a man of conviction and so found himself in the middle of the catastrophe that affected the Cathedral in 1987.  I remember the police arresting my dad and the group of protestors (my two brothers and I included after he insisted that they would have trouble getting into the police jeep if we couldn’t go with him). They were later freed after the Minister of Home Affairs and DPM Curl Thompson insisted that it was an internal church matter and that the police had no right to have interfered.  Determined to keep the faithful from separating and losing faith, he agreed to be the chaplain of the rebel group and held services of worship and Guild of the Holy Name of Jesus meetings downstairs of his home on King Street for over a year and then encouraging all to return to the walls of the Cathedral once their issues had been resolved.
 
He was a walking history book packed with information and insights about the Cathedral and the Diocese in general.  His first-hand recollection of many of the historical events in the life of the Church will be among the many things for which he is remembered.   He was one of the founding members of the All Saints’ Parish since he had resided in the Cinderella Town area on St. Joseph Street.  In his later years he would dedicate his service to Gales Point Manatee, Gracie Rock, Hattieville and finally St. Paul’s by the Sea in Corozal.
 
Because he loved the work of the church so much he naturally became close friends with many of the clergy.  Rev. Hardie Gordon, Rev. Eric Richards, Rev. Bob Hope, Rev. Lloyd Henry and Rev. Lloyd Taylor were among his very good friends.  He came to hold in high regard, for the sake of his own ministry, the Late Dean Gareth Lewis, Bishop Sylvestre Romero Palma, and our current Bishop, his grandnephew, Philip.  He was especially delighted in Philip because he had hoped for one of his own children to become a priest, a dream which he felt was completely dashed when Carol and Faith Babb and Party Leader Barrow contributed to make me a different kind of Minister.
 
He taught many in confirmation classes and interestingly enough, made it his business along with Theola Perto and Dane Ramclam from this Cathedral to ensure that one of his confirmation students, one Krishna Gillett, would meet his son who had just come back from university, thinking they would make a good match.  
 
If we were to keep score, his years of service then spans well over eighty years.  In recognition for his years of dedicated service, the Diocesan Family paused this week to celebrate his life and service.
 
A reckoning of the service of his life would not be complete if it were not mentioned that he was also very much committed to his country. Lloyd Christopher was corporal 27272 of the British Hondural Volunteer Guard.  After years of service in this regard he became a member of the Belize Ex-Services League and held several executive positions including the Belize Branch Chairman.  His friends in this regard, the late Sgt. Major Clark, Leopold Balderamos, Eddie Hyde, Harold Fairweather, Patrick Bennett and Cliff Robins. 
  
And so my friends, we have come this afternoon to say our final goodbye to the great man we are pleased to call our dad and many others are pleased to call friend.  We will miss him because he was a great friend.  But let us not weep for him for he is now in a better place.  I can say that with conviction for I saw peace on his face in the last visit I had with him.  We sang hymns and we prayed. 

Let us celebrate knowing that he is with the Lord and knowing that he waited on the Lord.  I leave you with two of his favourite pieces of scripture that the congregation of St. John’s Cathedral can still hear him recite today from this very lecturn.  “They that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and never faint” Isaiah 40:31.  Let your light so shine among men that they may see your good works and glorify your father who is in heaven.
May his soul and all the souls of the faithfully departed rest in peace. -1 1 0 59 2/3/2011 06:00:00 64 Hon. Patrick Faber 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 2802 robots= author= 2801 Eulogy: Barbara Louise Harris nee Fairweather eulogy-barbara-louise-harris-nee-fairweather

Barbara Harris was the third child of the dozen children ushered into this world by Ethel and Donald Fairweather.  Boo, as we called her, born March 23, 1930, attended Ms. Annett Maheia’s School; St. Hilda’s College; the Belize Technical College majoring in Home Economics and SJC Extension majoring in Book-keeping and Accounting. 

Her paid and unpaid employment history extends from 1949 through 2011.  She began in 1949 as a book-keeper for the Colonial Insurance Company; 1952 through 1955 as a stenographer with the Belize Estate Company; 1955 through 1968 as Manager of the Belize Bookshop; 1970 through 1971 as Clerk at the US Embassy and from 1971 through 1991 as the US Peace Corp Program Manager here in Belize.

In our family Boo made sure that every sibling felt special, never forgetting a birthday or an anniversary.  She gave us a kind word when you were hurting, kept her mouth shut when she realized we just needed to let off steam; she made sure we had our school books and new school shoes for our return to school after the holidays.   As our big-sister, Boo could be depended on; she performed the duties of a surrogate mother throughout our childhood boasting about our accomplishments whenever someone asked how Rosie is or how anyone of us was doing.

When she got married to Neil Harris and gave birth to Lydia and Francis you could see her eyes light-up as she recounted what they said or did since the last time we spoke.  In the past few years that spark in her eyes glowed even brighter as she spoke of her grand-children: Sydney-Paige, Haley, Abigail, Kevin Jr. and Drew.  Boo could spend hours sharing the joy these children brought into her life.

I have always been amazed at her commitment to serve her family and the way this passion for service also extended to the community but, most importantly, it was always a love for the children, it is the youth that has been front and center.  She was a founding member of the Young Women Christian Association and served to the last day of her life; she served the Girl Guides of Belize from 1942 to the present and served as the Treasurer of the Council of Churches for 30 years.  Twice she deliberately did not attend the Council of Churches’ annual meeting but was still voted Treasurer in absentia.  For her services she has been honored as Woman of the Year and last year was given the Belizean Patriot Meritorious Service Award.

All this is true but in celebration of her life today I want to recall a Boo we also know but may have overlooked what was at her core.  The Boo who would give away the blouse off her back.  The Boo who had me walking for miles through mud and water to be with the Youth Conservation Corp camping in the Jaguar Preserve.  The Boo who also introduced me to the Youth Enhancement Service to underline the fact that we must do all we can to encourage and support our youth.  And her commitment to youth did not stop her from finding the time to be a member of her block watch and finding time to commit to the church choir.

We would remind Boo that Anglicans don’t offer sainthood, slow down – take it easy.  Once, I jokingly asked her if God spoke to her and made this her “calling” as quite often we would chat about those who say that God told them to do this, God told them to do that.  But Boo never claimed that God had spoken to her.

She has caused us to reflect on why is it this sister of ours was so committed to service, always concerned about our youth and our community.  I have found that, like me, most of us shun “grunt” work; we are waiting for God to give us a Special Assignment, something big, something grand.

Boo’s attitude is “do the written assignment and then God may call you for Special Assignment”.  You see for her it is enough that it is written that we should “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind AND Love your neighbor as yourself”.

The truth is if God gave me Noah’s assignment, I don’t know about you but I would say Lord let me start with Loving my neighbor. If God said “Moses – Go tell Pharaoh to let my people go” I don’t know about you but I would beg “Lord let me start with loving my neighbor”. We are just not ready for the big assignments until we complete the written assignment!

I will miss my sister but I am forever grateful for the vision she has given me as to how the world should be and what I should be doing.  In celebrating her legacy let’s do our written assignment.  Let’s plant seeds of love; love that will touch the heart of those we meet on our journey.  Share that love of God that heals and strengthens.  Let our blessings be a blessing to others and TODAY let us give thanks to God for the ways in which Barbara Louise Harris nee Fairweather has shown us to surrender to the will of God.

(Delivered by Norman Fairweather at All Saints Anglican Church Friday, January 28, 2011)

-1 1 0 59 2/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 695 robots= author= 2802 Hutchy present in Rural Central hutchy-present-in-rural-central Hon. Michael Hutchinson was once again in his division assisting both residents and the community in general. After suffering a devastating fire which gutted his house last week, Hon. Hutchinson decided to assist James Copius with a weed-eater valued at over a thousand dollars. Hutchinson expects that the machine will be used by Copius for him to secure a livelihood through the cutting of yards. The proverbial teaching a man to fish is appropriate here.

Hon. Hutchinson was also in Hattieville where he donated a stove and a Deep Freeze to the Hattieville Government School. The donation which came through the Hands for the Needy initiative will assist the school in their school feeding program. That donation is valued at over $2500.

In speaking with Hon. Hutchinson he explained that he will continue to contribute to the communities he represents in as small or large a fashion as he possibly can. -1 1 0 40 2/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 4 0 697 robots= author= 2803 Chukka gives it to Godfrey chukka-gives-it-to-godfrey It seems that Pinky is not satisfied with having wreaked havoc and helping to marginalize ordinary Belizeans out of the cruise tourism business in favour of their fat cat cronies while he was Minister of Tourism;  Pinky is hardly content with resting in comfortable retirement courtesy of Lord Octopus’ and the BTB millions he has banked. Now he is back for more. 
   
It is being said that Pinky has hired his wife Valarie, again, to play tourism expert and be the managing director of Chukka/Bak-A-Bush after he, the bank and the Jamaicans had successfully conspired to oust the Belizean owners Tom and Yvette.
   
At a meeting at their Jaguar Paw earlier this week the guides and operators were told that not only were the Wilsons goners, but that there would be less of them to earn less. It seemed odd to observers to have gotten a glimpse of Pinky as he loomed at the back of the room during a press conference which was held by Back-A-Bush on October 18th of last year when they declared they were a 100% Belizean company.

The sighting was odd because he is not one to attend such trifling events. But maybe, just maybe it was not such a trifling event, after all it must have been from then that Pinky was sharpening his knife to deliver the fatal slash that would ultimately have decapitated the Wilsons. The plastic smile and the air of superiority that Pinky flaunts about is but a nice charade that belies the evil within this man. Now he’s been successful once again at getting the better of the Back-A-Bush couple to install his wife.
   
This is Pinky in classic form because those with any memory can remember that back in June 2007 wife Valarie was hired as a professional “consultant” and paid a big fat check to plan cruise tourism. Nobody knew then that the couple was planning on giving Belizean roots the shaft.
   
You’ve just got to give it to Godfrey or he simply will just take it! -1 1 0 40 2/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 3 0 1192 robots= author= 2804 Scattah Shat Oil Protest scattah-shat-oil-protest In an article titled “Environmental Crazies Take on GOB” in the last edition of the Guardian Newspaper we said that the Coalition to Protect our Natural Resources raised some valid points and their fight is “admirable”. There is no such praise that we can bestow upon the recent act of the organization known as COLA.

COLA is a loose triggered gun ready to fire at any breeze. They are devoted to no specific cause and only heard from when one of their members disagrees with an issue. COLA is a group devoted to protest and if there is anything remotely good that could be said about them it’s that they are a bunch of good old soldiers. Their most recent protest was executed in front of the office of the Prime Minister. It was a 24 hour commitment to demonstrate against concessions for oil exploration that have been issued out. They were joined by members of the Belize Grassroots Youth Empowerment Association (BGYEA), Belizeans for Justice and FECTAB. In total there were about 40 participants in the protest.   

Their request was for the Prime Minister to listen to them. Such a task would require the PM to have the gift of omniscience and omnipresence. The protest was against oil exploration but it would appear that only the protestors were unaware of that fact. Yolando Shackron spoke about children going to school hungry and mothers without jobs. Though that had nothing to do with the theme of the protest, perhaps it is a situation that can improve if the government got revenues from the oil that COLA doesn’t want found. Jihad McClaren had the opportunity to share his conspiracy theories to idle minds- BGYEA had no clue what they were doing out there. And of course FECTAB has several agendas- the least of which is not greed and fighting oil exploration.  
  
Even executive members of COLA had no idea what they were talking about in relation to oil policy. Moses Sulph, President of COLA, wants the PM to lower the “windfall tax [so that] more of the money benefits the people of this country”. He accuses the government of not doing this because they don’t want more money to leave their family and friends. First of all, the windfall tax is at 50% and lowering it would not mean more money to Belizeans it would mean less. Secondly, his accusations are as baseless as his knowledge of the issue he is fighting against.

It is safe to say that Jiovanni Brackett went rogue on this operation because at least two of the larger organizations in the Coalition are not in support of his actions. They believe that such protest was “premature” and “unfortunate”. In an interview with the Prime Minister of Belize, he explained that he appreciated the fact that they exercised their right to demonstrate. However, he was not pleased with Brackett’s tone.

It is unfortunate for the Coalition that while their chairman was launching a tasteless protest, the Cabinet was busy addressing their concerns. Hence the reason why Government will not give back any of the 1.14 million acres relinquished by OPIC in concessions. Brackett needs to tone down the rhetoric and stop allowing individuals and groups to piggy back on his cause. His lawn slumber party may have hurt his cause rather than helped it. -1 1 0 40 2/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 803 robots= author= 2805 Numbers Don’t Lie numbers-dont-lie The four Northern conventions held so far (three UDP and one PUP) to elect standard bearers for the 2013 General Elections have been attracting very high voter participation and generating much media attention. In the past, these events would draw perhaps a couple hundred attendees on convention day, and the program would invariably be crammed with high profile Party speakers offering more hype than substance to their stanch audience. Cheap beers would flow easily and loud music would blast way into the night, with everyone, including the vanquished if there was a contest, eventually hugging and pledging full support to the successful candidate. 
  
But now considering the heated political climate sweeping across our country, especially with the diverse amount of special interest groups fanning the flames, the people are antsy and want to be more directly involved, either to promote a policy to their Party or to get their representatives to listen to, and promptly address, their personal concerns. There is an overwhelming perception that the mood after these four large conventions in OW and Corozal has not been jubilant all around, especially with the defeated aspirants, which is perhaps expected after such impassioned contests.
 
Many political pundits have long held the opinion that for the most part, conventions tend to divide Party support rather than strengthen internal bonds. We have seen this brooding trait in both parties these past weeks, but especially so in the PUP camp. Their infighting, public and private, has been intense since February 7, 2008, and has not moderated one speck, no matter how vigorous the effort. I would be lying if I told you that their state of affairs upsets me.
 
That said, though, I feel that the UDP has made open attempts to reach out to supporters of the challengers who did not succeed in their bid for a political seat. It is common knowledge that every contestant in any convention will have unwavering backing from a good number of supporters, many of whom at times feel the pain of losing more than the candidate himself (or herself).
 
Recognizing this, I have recently seen senior officials from the UDP reach out to the unsuccessful candidates and their teams, not when the wound is sore, but after some time has passed. I really respect this approach, and it is a shift from the past where once our leaders expected losing supporters to “fall back in line” on their own, or stay out. It’s a sign of maturity in the UDP; a welcome sign.
 
As to the actual number of voters that have attended the four conventions in the North, well, we don’t have to posses even near the same intellect of Stephen Hawkins to figure which Party has the most support. Doing a quick math, without using the skewed statistics regularly employed by That TV in OW, I will say that at the single constituency where we can compare numbers, Corozal Bay, the UDP standard bearer received more votes than the four PUP aspirants combined. Now, dear friends at That TV, what story does that tell you come 2013? -1 1 0 40 2/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 727 robots= author= 2806 Wesley and All Saint’s boys undefeated in primary schools basketball wesley-and-all-saints-boys-undefeated-in-primary-schools-basketball The Belize City Primary Schools Basketball Championship is fast winding down at the Belize City centre. On Tuesday February 1, 2011, in the first of two female games played, Holy Redeemer School defeated Belize Elementary School by the score of 10 to 6. The top scorer for Holy Redeemer was Shanice Neal with 6 points, while the top scorer for Belize Elementary School was Twinkle Bhojwani with 4 points.

In the second female game, Queen Square Anglican defeated St. Luke Methodist by the score of 6 to 2. The top scorer for Queen Square Anglican was Kayla Bowen with 6 points and the top scorer for St. Luke Methodist was Jennelly Lamb with 2 points. In the first male game, Holy Redeemer School defeated Belize Elementary School by the score of 42 to 30. The top scorer for Holy Redeemer was Jover Lopez with 15 points, and the top scorers for Belize Elementary were Jeorge Perez and Maheep Gurnani with 7 points each.

In the second male game, Queen Square Anglican defeated St. Luke Methodist by the score of 34 to 20. The top scorer for Queen Square Anglican was Devin Parham with 12 points, while the top scorer for St. Luke Methodist was Luke McKenzie with 5 points. The competition continued on Monday, January 31, with five games on the schedule. In the first female game, St. John’s girls defeated St. Martin’s De Porres by the score of 10 to 0. The top scorer for St. John’s was Ashley Bailey with 6 points.

In the second female game, Belize Elementary School defeated James Garbutt SDA by the score of 15 to 1. The top scorer for Belize Elementary was Chelsea Williams with 6 points. In the first of three male games played, St. John’s Primary defeated Grace Primary by the score of 16 to 12. The top scorer for St. John’s Primary was Devon Arnold with 9 points, while the top scorer for Grace Primary was Raheem Flowers with 6 points.

In the second game, Wesley Upper continued on its winning path when it defeated Stella Maris by the score of 32 to 5. The top scorer for Wesley Upper was Shaquille Crawford with 14 points, while the top scorer for Stella Maris was Glen Bowen with 3 points. In the final male game of the day, Caye Caulker Roman Catholic defeated St. Ignatius Primary by the score of 26 to 23. The top scorer for Caye Caulker was Carlos Jimenez with 15 points and the top scorer for St. Ignatius School was Akeem Baptist with 9 points.

On Friday January 28, in the first female game, Queen Square Anglican defeated Belize Elementary by the score of 12 to 8. The top scorer for Queen Square Anglican was Kayla Bowen with 8 points, while the top scorer for Belize Elementary was Chelsea Williams with 4 points. In the second female game, St. Luke Methodist defeated St. Martin’s De Porres by the score of 7 to 0. The top scorer for St. Luke Methodist was Janelly Lamb with all 7 points.

In the first of two male games, Queen Square Anglican defeated Belize Elementary by the score of 49 to 14. The top scorer for Queen Square Anglican was Devin Parham with 10 points and the top scorer for Belize Elementary was Jorge Ortiz with 7 points. In the final game of the day, St. Martin’s De Porres defeated St. Luke Methodist by the score of 30 to 12. The top scorer for St. Luke Methodist was Kerson Mehia with 4 points.

On Thursday January 27, in the first of three female games played, St. Martin’s De Porres defeated James Garbutt SDA by the score of 1 to 0. In game two, St. John’s Primary School defeated Ephesus SDA by the score of 16 to 4. The top scorer for St. John’s Primary was Ashley Bailey with 12 points, while the top scorer for Ephesus SDA was Moesha Frazer with 4 points.

In the final female game of the day, Holy Redeemer defeated Queen Square Anglican by the score of 16 to 3. The top scorer for Holy Redeemer was Shanice Neal with 8 points and the top scorer for Queen Square Anglican was Kayla Bowen with 2 points. In the first male game played, St. Martin’s De Porres defeated St. Ignatius Primary by the score of 33 to 31. The top scorer for St. Martin’s De Porres was Clency Lopez with 16 points and the scorer for St. Ignatius Primary was Sydney Bradley with 14 points.

In the second and final male game of the day, St. John’s Primary edged Ephesus SDA by the score of 18 to 16.  The top scorer for St. John’s Primary was Devon Arnold with 12 points while the top scorer for Ephesus SDA was Windell Thurton with 10 points. On Wednesday January 26, 2011, in the first of two female games played, Belize Elementary defeated Ephesus SDA by the score of 8 to 0. The top scorer for Belize Elementary was Chelsea Williams with 4 points.

In the second female game, St. Luke Methodist defeated James Garbutt SDA by the score of 21 to 8. The top scorer for St. Luke Methodist was Janelly Lamb. In the first male game, Caye Caulker Roman Catholic defeated Belize Elementary by the score of 22 to 16. The top scorer for Caye Caulker Roman Catholic was Larry Leslie with 9 points and the top scorer for Belize Elementary was Masheep Gurnani with 6 points.

In the second male game played, All Saint’s Anglican defeated Grace Primary School by the score of 29 to 24. The top scorer for All Saint’s Anglican was Keyvon Evan with 16 points and the top scorer for Grace Primary was Raheem Flowers with 12 points. In the final game of the day, James Garbutt SDA defeated Stella Maris by the score of 21 to 8. The top scorer for James Garbutt SDA was Christopher Zelaya with 8 points while the top scorer for Stella Maris was Glen Bowen with 6 points. -1 1 0 41 2/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 5 0 676 robots= author= 2807 Central Region high school softballers to compete for the Philippa Griffith-Bailey and Jude Lizama trophies central-region-high-school-softballers-to-compete-for-the-philippa-griffith-bailey-and-jude-lizama-trophies The 2010-2011 Central Region Secondary Schools Softball Competition for boys and girls was officially opened on Monday January 31, 2011, at Rogers Stadium the home of softball in Belize. During the opening ceremony, President of the Belize Softball Federation Patrick Henry, who officially opened the competition, encouraged the student-athletes to have fun while playing the sports as well.

He reminded the student-athletes that all three Belizean pitchers who are ISF Hall of Fame members played softball for their respective high schools during their high school years. President Henry also told the student-athletes, officials of the Central Region Sports Association and fans that the female champions will receive the Philippa Griffith-Bailey Trophy and the male champions will receive the Jude Lizama Trophy; both personalities are stalwarts of softball in Belize and the Federation. The winners will get to keep the trophies.

In the first game of the female competition, Gwen Lizarraga High School defeated St. Catherine Academy by the score of 19 to 4. The winning pitcher was Shanice Pollard and the losing pitcher was Carilee Gillett. In the male game, the defending champion Wesley College opened on the right foot when it defeated St. John’s College by the score of 13 to 3. The winning pitcher was Calbert Jefferies and the losing pitcher was Myric Marin.

On Tuesday February 2, 2011, in the female competition, former champion in the 1970’s Nazarene High School defeated the high school softball perennial champions Wesley College by the score of 17 to 12. The winning pitcher was Amber Wade and the losing pitcher was Melissa Williams. In the male game, Gwen Lizarraga High School defeated Anglican Cathedral College by the score of 16 to 1. The winning pitcher was Harley Middleton and the losing pitcher was Ito Acosta. -1 1 0 41 2/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 4 0 602 robots= author= 2808 Belize Defence Force and Toledo Ambassadors to finals of Caribbean Motors Cup belize-defence-force-and-toledo-ambassadors-to-finals-of-caribbean-motors-cup The Belize Premier Football League Caribbean Motors Cup semi-final round concluded on Sunday January 30, 2011 with two games on the schedule. At the Toledo Union Field in Punta Gorda Town, the home team Toledo Ambassadors eliminated FC Belize when it defeated it by the score of 3 to 0. The Toledo Ambassadors won the series by an aggregate score of 4 to 1 and as a result has now advanced to the championship round against the defending champions and the competition’s favourite the Belize Defence Force.

The home team Toledo Ambassadors got on the scoreboard when Ralph Flores scored the 1st goal of the game in the 21st minute of play to give his team an early lead. The lead was further increased when Flores scored his 2nd goal of the game in the 30th minute of play for a 2-0 lead.
The first half of the game ended 2 to 0 in favour of the home team Toledo Ambassadors.

The Toledo Ambassadors’ final goal of the game was scored by Ralph Flores in the 80th minute of play to give his team the 3 to 0 victory. At the Norman Broaster Stadium in San Ignacio Town, the Belize Defence Force eliminated the San Felipe Barcelona by the score of 6 to 2. The Belize Defence Force got on the scoreboard first when Daniel Jimenez scored the first of his two goals in the 30th minute of play to give his team an early 1-0 lead.  The lead was further increased when David Trapp scored his team’s 2nd goal in the 36th minute of play; the 3rd goal was scored by Vallan Symns via a penalty kick in the 38th minute of play, while the 4th goal of the game was scored by Daniel Jimenez in the 40th minute of play for a commanding 4 to 0 lead.

In the second half of the game, the Belize Defence Force’s onslaught continued on the defence of the San Felipe Barcelona, which proved too weak to stop the missiles of the Defence Force when Richard Jimenez scored his team’s 5th goal in the 52nd minute of play while the 6th and final goal of the game was scored by Evan Mariano in the 82nd minute of play for the big victory.

Meanwhile, the visiting San Felipe Barcelona finally got on the scoreboard when Harvey Cruz scored his team’s 1st goal in the 81st minute of play via a penalty kick. The San Felipe Barcelona 2nd and final goal was scored by Jaziz Wicab in the 83rd minute of play.

With the victory, the Belize Defence Force won the series by an aggregate score of 8 to 3 and a trip to the national title. The championship round will commence on Sunday February 6, 2011, at the Toledo Union Field in Punta Gorda Town commencing at 4:00 pm between the Belize Defence Force and the Toledo Ambassadors. The second game in the series is scheduled for Sunday February 13, at the Norman Broaster Stadium in San Ignacio Town at 4:00 pm. -1 1 0 41 2/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 3 0 761 robots= author= 2809 Cayo Softball Association elects officer cayo-softball-association-elects-officer- The Cayo Softball Association an affiliate of the Belize Softball Federation held its General Assembly on Thursday, January 27, 2011, at the Blackman Eddy Community Centre in the Cayo District. The members that were in attendance received the Treasurers report for the period 2009-2011 and an overall report from President Jerjett Thompson.

The high point of the General Assembly was the election of officers to serve the Cayo Softball Association for the period 2011-2013. The election of officers was observed by the President of the Belize Softball Federation.

The following were elected to serve for the period 2011-2013: President: Jerjett Thompson (re-elected), Vice President: Ionie Gutierrez, Secretary: Diana Codrington, Treasurer: Kenisha Sutherland and committee members: Joy Mendoza, Kimberly Nunez, Austin Flowers and Anthony Arnold. -1 1 0 41 2/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 589 robots= author= 2810 Telemedia U15 and U17 basketball competition opens telemedia-u15-and-u17-basketball-competition-opens The Belize District Basketball Association Telemedia U-15 and U-17 basketball competition opened on Friday January 28, 2011 at the Belize City Centre with games in both the U-15 and U-17 competitions. In the U- 15 game played, Rising Stars defeated Deacon by the score of 55 to 48. The top scorers for Rising Stars were Roderick Williams with 18 points and 20 rebounds, and Keyvon Evans with 11 points and 4 rebounds.  Meanwhile, the top scorers for the Deacon were Auburn Rivero with 21 points and 7 rebounds and Raheem Trumbach with 6 points.

In the final game of the evening, which was in the U-17 competition, Wildcats defeated Complex by the score of 86 to 84. The top scorers for the Wildcats were Uhuru McKoy with 23 points and 5 rebounds and Alexander Ellis with 17 points and 2 rebounds, while the top scorers for Complex were Ryan Michael with 49 points and 8 rebounds and Kadeem Olivera with 25 points.

The U -15 competition continued on Sunday January 30 with only one game on the schedule between the SJC Wildcats and Blazin Blazzaz. The Blazin Blazzaz defeated the SJC Wildcats by the score of 49 to 39.  The top scorers for the Blazin Blazzaz were Rodney Morris with 12 points and 14 rebounds, and Mateo Guetirez with 7 points and 4 rebounds, while the top scorers for the SJC Wildcats were Malik Francisco with 12 points and 4 rebounds and K’lon Augustus with 10 points and 19 rebounds.

The U -17 competition also continued on Sunday January 30, with two games. In the first game played, Kruzzars defeated Belama Ballaz by the score of 71 to 54. The top scorers for the Kruzzars were Devin Daly with 15 points and 23 rebounds and Tariq Middleton with 12 points and 6 rebounds. For the Belama Ballaz, the top scorers were Alejandro Baptist with 31 points and 13 rebounds and Elwin Pollard with 7 points and 7 rebounds.

In game two, Rising Stars defeated Plaza by the score of 76 to 64. The top scorers for Rising Stars were Sydney Bradley with 22 points and Roderick Williams with 18 points and 13 rebounds. Meanwhile, the top scorers for Plaza were Mark Thompson with 18 points 17 rebounds and Jovanin Broaster with 12 points.

The U-17 competition continued on Monday January 31, with two games on the schedule. In game one, ACC Deacons defeated YMCA by the score of 71 to 40. The top scorers for the ACC Deacons were Travis Bermudez with 21 points and 7 rebounds and Terrique Gabb with 20 points.  For the YMCA, the top scorers were Dominique Tatum with 14 points and 6 rebounds and Kadrem Monsanto with 9 points.

In the second and final game of the evening, SJC Wildcats nipped Ladyville by the score of 55 to 54. The top scorers for the SJC Wildcats were Zhayne Morris with 12 points and 10 rebounds and Uhuru McKoy also with 12 points and 9 rebounds. For the Ladyville team, the top scorers were Darren Longsworth with 30 points and 4 rebounds and Dejon Longsworth with 8 points and 8 rebounds. -1 1 0 41 2/3/2011 06:00:00 63 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 653 robots= author= 2811 The Quiet Army the-quiet-army There is a quiet army that keeps our country running without fuss or fanfare, an army that we seldom notice or acknowledge until one of their number passes on.  Such were my thoughts as I sat amongst the overflowing congregation that had gathered to celebrate the life of Mrs. Barbara Harris.  This army, many of whose members were amongst the congregation, is made up of the countless women (and a few men) who serve their fellow citizens so selflessly.  They serve their families, their churches, their communities and often their chosen political parties.  They are there to look after their own children and grandchildren, their elderly parents and ailing relatives and neighbours.  They are the backbone of various community organisations such as the Red Cross, YWCA, Help Age and many others.  They cook and serve the food for fundraisers and socials.  They visit the sick and comfort the despairing.  Often they do all this while also holding down a full time job, sometimes as the breadwinner for their family. 
 
Babsy, as she was known to her friends, would certainly have been a high ranking officer in that army if it had such a structure.  But of course, the quiet army is without rank.  Each member gives according to her capacity.  Babsy’s main activities were with the Girl Guides and Brownies, the YWCA and her beloved All Saints Church and these organisations were well represented to send her on her way.  But the members of the silent army do not do what they do just to ensure a good funeral.  In fact, many of them would be embarrassed to hear the grand remembrances said for them.  What activates these dedicated women if it is not money or glory?  It’s doubtful that they could tell you.  They would probably say that it’s just the right way to behave.  I suppose what they would mean is that caring for other people is the best part of the human condition.
 
If there is a common thread it is not wealth.  Most of the quiet army are not wealthy.  They generally have enough to live on but that is all.  Few of them are desperately poor since the poor have to use all their energy just to survive.  This army of women spans all ages but the most active members are usually those over fifty once their own children are older.  What will we do if new members are not called to serve as the older ones slow down or leave us altogether?  The government could never have enough human or financial resources to offer the services that the quiet army provides so well. 
 
Let us hope that the younger generation produces armies with the same kind of dedication as the quiet army.  They may want to make noise and use more technology but that is alright.  If more men want to join in, that’s ok too as long as they don’t try to take over and change the focus. 
 
What the quiet army teaches us is that although there are many reasons to despair when times get hard and crime seems to reign supreme we should look around and see that there are far more people who do the right thing rather than the wrong one.  Most people do care about others – the challenge is to find ways to encourage these inclinations to blossom.  Maybe someone should commission a study of the quiet army so that we can learn from them how to nurture the desire to care that is within all of us.
 
Well done members of the quiet army.  We may not tell you often enough but we appreciate everything that you do. -1 10 0 56 2/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 166 robots= author= 2812 Belcogen Turbines Halt Sugar Processing at BSI belcogen-turbines-halt-sugar-processing-at-bsi

Just when the sugar crop was supposed to have been getting off on one of the best years, a fault at the Belcogen plant has brought the milling and delivery of sugar cane to a halt. In a release issued by BSI (see page 20) the company explains that company engineers had begun to detect problems with one of the two turbines which was delivering “less than rated power” on January 20.

Further investigations indicate that the turbine (A) as it is referred to needs cleaning. As the situation was being assessed, the second turbine (B) was carrying the full load. However, that too has begun to show similar problems and now the recommendations are that both be taken out and cleaned. Belcogen is now in the process of doing this and will ship both turbines to Guatemala for servicing. This is expected to be carried out within the next four weeks.

The situation at Belcogen has caused the shutdown in operations since the milling plant is directly linked to the power generation facility. Belcogen has the capacity of producing 13.5 megawatts of power, nine of which is used to power BSI’s mill.

In BSI’s release it states that sugar production to date stands at 30,580 tons which is 4,984 tons ahead of target. BSI continues to explain that given the weather conditions, quality of cane being delivered and cane delivery management of the crop is expected to finish within the projected 30 weeks as had been anticipated.

For his part, Alfredo Ortega, Chairman of the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association expressed concern over the situation explaining that the delay will represent some setbacks for cane farmers. He is hopeful that the shutdown of operations does not progress into the rainy season which would have a negative effect on the harvesting and delivery of cane. He also explained that farmers may experience some economic setbacks.

Prime Minister Dean Barrow explained on Wednesday that he’s taken interest in the situation and met with BSI executives to ensure that the situation is resolved as quickly as possible. BSI managers have given the Prime Minister their commitments that the situation is being addressed as speedily as possible and all is being done to avert a reoccurrence of the problems. -1 6 0 53 2/10/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 846 robots= author= 2813 3 Years of Work, Progress & Growth – No new taxes on Belizeans 3-years-of-work-progress-a-growth-no-new-taxes-on-belizeans Prime Minister Hon. Dean Barrow held his 1st quarterly press conference for 2011 and did so two days past the UDP administration’s three year anniversary in office. Flanked by Ministers Gaspar Vega, Patrick Faber and Anthony “Boots” Martinez, P.M. Barrow addressed the nation on the country’s performance in the last year explaining that despite the hardships of the past year the country is on its way to recovery.

He explained that the Statistical Institute of Belize has issued a preliminary report to the PM to suggest that the country experienced a 2.5% growth last year. But despite the growth the upcoming financial year will prove to be one where the Prime Minister will have to be innovative especially of a 7.1million dollar deficit which government has to contend with.

In speaking on the preparation of the budget the Prime Minister explained that total revenue and grant receipts stood at $559.6 million as compared to $566.7 million in expenditure. There is a recurrent balance of $72.4 million and a primary surplus of $44.5 million. There was a slump in grant revenues which went down to a mere $4.8 million down by 78.7% over last year. That, however, was compensated by revenues from Business tax and royalties on petroleum. An increase in GST collections by 24.8 million dollars to 140.9 million dollars was also a contributor to better fiscal performance.

Moving from the finances, the Hon. Barrow explained that in the preparation of the new budget this year, “there will be no new taxes on the Belizean People.” He then explained that despite everything the government has been able to invest heavily in infrastructure, Food Security, Equity investment in DFC, Rural Development, Home Improvements, Hurricane Assistance and Social Programs. Among these are pro-poor initiatives such as the food pantry program for the poor to cater to persons who earn less than 35 dollars a week. 

P.M. Barrow also cited the conditional cash transfer program which is now dubbed BOOST (Building Opportunities for Our Social Transformation). A key component in the program is the allocation of funds to directly subsidize poor families in an effort to encourage children to attend both primary and secondary schools. The program will see households assisted up to 82 dollars per month where male children are attending high school and 75 dollars per month where girls are attending high school. The program would cover a maximum of six children. The Prime Minister explained that the difference in assistance for male children is different than for females because males have a higher dropout rate than females.

But more than social assistance, the P.M. went on to highlight the many infrastructural projects being implemented by the Ministry of Works including work being carried out in the northern districts to rehabilitate sugar roads. There are also projects which are underway including the paving of the road from the Dump in Punta Gorda to Jalacte as well as a new bridge to span the Macal River in Santa Elena/San Igancio.

Outside of a progress report P.M. Barrow also discussed issues related to BTL explaining that there are at least two strategic investors who have expressed interest in purchasing the company. Among these are a Taiwanese Investor and an Argentinean company. The latter, says the P.M., will shortly sign a letter of intent with the government.

He also discussed U.S. Capital, the oil company currently preparing to drill for oil in the Sarstoon Temash National Park. There is a possibility that within the next six to nine months the company will begin the process of drilling. The area he added has the highest potential for an oil find in the country. As for moves to stop the company from proceeding with the drilling, the P.M. quickly put that to rest explaining that the company will be allowed to drill and it would be irresponsible to cancel the country. -1 6 0 54 2/10/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 1815 robots= author= 2814 National Dialysis Program Officially Opens national-dialysis-program-officially-opens A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between WORTH, the Ministry of Health, Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) and La Loma Luz Adventist Hospital (LLLAH) on June 3, 2010 for the establishment of quality dialysis treatment in Belize’s public healthcare system. That MOU included the establishment of a haemodialysis center at the KHMH and LLLAH. Those centers were officially opened on Friday, February 4, 2011.

An official ceremony for the opening of both centers was held at 9:00am at the Lions Den, next to KHMH, on Princess Margaret Drive in Belize City. The ceremony was followed by a tour of the units. Both dialysis units have the capacity to dialyze up to eight cases per day with four functioning haemodialysis machines and two additional stand-by machines. Each unit includes a nurse’s station, a mixing and reuse room, storage room, a reverse osmosis and a “work” room for the maintenance of the machines. Unlike the dialysis treatment that government was paying for at the private institution, this program is a comprehensive one. It includes medical and social support, laboratory testing, pharmaceuticals and nutritional education in addition to the dialysis sessions.

According to the Ministry of Health, Dr. Wayne Trebbin, President, Ms. Carolyn McTeague, Vice President and their technical team from the World Organization for Renal Therapies (WORTH) have been training KHMH and LLLAH nurses along with dialysis technicians over the last five months. 15 nurses were selected to take special training for the provision of dialysis services and those nurses have successfully completed the theoretical and practical feature of that program all with scores of higher than 80% in their final theory assessment. The program has a non resident Nephrologist who conducts sessions from the United States via the telephone or internet.

The transfer of patients from Belize Healthcare Partners Limited began since September 22nd of last year. There are currently 11 patients accessing the dialysis program at KHMH. The Ministry has made an effort to roll out the program carefully to build confidence in the system. The fifteen nurses were stationed at KHMH for the last five months and all patients will be transferred to KHMH first. Reason being, KHMH is more equipped to deal with any complication that could possibly arise. The Ministry also believed that the nurses needed time to get comfortable actually administering the services. As the program is rolled out, the nurses will be shared between LLLAH and KHMH and there will be 32 patients on the program.

Government’s budget for end stage renal failure treatment is $1.8 million. In its previous partnership with the private company that was enough to provide dialysis sessions for only 26 patients.  That did not include pharmaceuticals, lab work, catheters, dietitians or any of the important elements in an effective dialysis program. That translates to about $70,000 a year per patient for inadequate service. That same $1.8 million will be used to provide complete services to the 26 patients from Healthcare partners plus six more. The six will be selected by a committee made up of the Nephrologist, Dialysis Nurse, Church Representative, Legal Representative, Social Worker, Psychiatrist and a member of the Kidney Association of Belize. They will be responsible for the selection of patients for dialysis treatment based on criteria set by the program’s Management Committee.

Patients will be asked to contribute between $15 and $80 per session, depending on their financial situation. The Ministry’s health economist, Michelle Vanzie, said that the money will be used to expand the program in the future. She said that money may be able to provide the service for three to six additional patients in need. Basic dialysis service in the private sector cost over $500 per session.       

After the opening ceremonies there was the unveiling of commemorative plaques at both institutions. KHMH will provide service to the large northern and central regions, while the unit at La Loma Luz will service the western and southern regions. Though the program was officially opened last Friday, Dr. Francis Gary Longsworth, C.E.O. of KHMH, said that it may take up to eight weeks before the 32 patients are in the program.

The Belize Social Security Board, Belize Natural Energy (BNE) Limited and The Challenge Gobie Foundation of BNE also contributed towards the establishment of the national haemodialysis program. -1 1 0 59 2/10/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane D. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 5 0 224 robots= author= 2815 Belize’s Trivia Challenge belizes-trivia-challenge Parents and children now have the opportunity to test their knowledge of the jewel in a fun and interactive manner thanks to Tiffany Simpson’s “Belize Trivia Challenge”. According to Tiffany Simpson, the Belize Trivia Challenge is a computer program that tests an individual’s knowledge of Belize. One game on the program includes 10 questions with 4 answers to choose from. Each answer is worth 1000 points and a player has 25 seconds to answer. 25 points is deducted for every second that passes. There is also a hint button that gives a clue to the answer for each question. The clue is very effective in helping a player to identify the answer; however, if the hint button is used 300 points is deducted. 

The game is very addictive and the side effects include a ton of knowledge relating to Belize’s history, geography, culture, political and educational system, etc. Tiffany Simpson is a game and software developer whose passion for “fueling knowledge” inspired her to create the game. She said, “Knowledge is key to the development of any society and this is my way to contribute to that development.” Simpson is in the process of taking a high school tour to familiarize students and teachers with the program. Though it is not her immediate goal for the Belize Trivia Challenge, the program could serve as an effective preparation tool for students preparing for the Primary School Examinations. Simpson is able to build software using the curriculum for PSE. It is a creative way to encourage studying and improve performance.

Simpson’s program is revolutionary to Belizean education because it taps into this technologically motivated generation. Sadly for us in the newspaper business and printing industry, it is a fact that electronic media is the new king of information. The screen lights are more attractive than paper; therefore, games such as the Belize Trivia Challenge could be the answer to the prayers of parents and educators. Those without educational motivation may still find the challenge attractive based on the fact that rewards could be gained by playing online. Players can challenge others online to win cash by visiting www.belizeanartwork.com to sign up for an account.     
  
What is more impressive than her program is the way that Simpson learnt to build it. She had no previous experience in software development and said that one year ago she Googled software design training. It took her six weeks to understand the program and two and a half months later the Belize Trivia Challenge was born. A new CD is released every month with a database of a couple hundred questions. The price of a copy is $5 and they are available at the Image Factory in Belize City. Simpson hopes to have them available countrywide shortly but until then autographed copies can be ordered directly from her at telephone number 607-1088.

She also develops software that make puzzles, some of which will be featured weekly in future editions of the Guardian.   -1 1 0 59 2/10/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane D, Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 4 0 840 robots= author= 2816 Where was the Coalition? where-was-the-coalition The Coalition to Save Our Natural Heritage was launched on World Oceans Day 2010, June 8. The coalition is a concrete example of everything good about the freedoms exercised and experienced in democratic countries such as Belize. Our right to publicly call out the government and leader of our country on an issue we disagree upon is a privilege that people in other countries are still fighting for today. Unfortunately, the freedoms of democracy and speech are often manipulated by opportunists and infected with the venom that fuels partisan and other types of politics.

Just to reiterate a point, whether one agrees with them or not, the idea that a group of individuals and organizations have united to fight on behalf of the preservation of the natural resources of our country is admirable. Sadly, when we look at the who, what, when, where, why and how of the coalition, their motive is questionable at best.

With the exception of Oceana, no member of the coalition is new to Belize. Similarly, the issuance of contracts for oil exploration is not new to Belize. The only new variable is the party in charge of government. It is time to stop beating around the bush and call a fraud a fraud. If the PUP was in government there would be no such coalition. They may deny that charge but wherever guilt is not admitted judgment will be determined by a jury based on circumstantial evidence. The jury in this case is the people of Belize and the evidence is based on the fact that this government has issued out three oil contracts and there have been numerous press conferences, celebrity visits, protests, calls for referendum, petition drives, threat of martyrdom and others.

This government has been painted as the oil/drilling administration. Even the Opposition has charged against the government on the topic of oil contracts. The Leader of the Opposition “urged the Barrow administration to place a stay so that a proper review of the contracts can be done”. On the other hand, during the PUP administration, there was no coalition fighting against oil contracts or exploration. There was no protest, celebrity visits on the issue or press conference of such nature. There was no call for referendum when the PUP government issued 16 oil contracts. That leaves us to ask the question. “Where were they?”

Where was the Coalition? Where was Brackett? Where was COLA? Where was APAMO? Where was SATIIM? Where was the Belize Audubon Society? And I would dare to say “Where was UNESCO?” when the PUP was giving out oil contracts north, south, east and west. Where were they on October 12, 2007 when Florencio Marin gave out seven concessions that single day? Where were they when the now Leader of the Opposition gave a 35 year oil concession that covers the Sapodilla Cayes to the company known as Island Oil Limited? The Sapodilla Cayes is one of Belize’s most valuable offshore sites and is one of the key subjects in the Guatemalan Claim. Where were they?

If they cared about the environment 

If the members of the coalition really cared about the environment there are several areas of concern that they should be paying attention to. In a press conference on Tuesday, January 25, the coalition showed a video on the devastation caused to Ecuador because of the negligent waste disposal practice of their oil companies. If they were serious about the environment they would fight to ensure that the disposal system in Belize is safe. They would also fight to ensure that the transportation of crude oil is safe because an oil spill doesn’t have to occur at a drilling site.

They would ensure that the oil industry is adequately regulated. They would join Melanie McField in her work to restore the coral system of Belize. They would fight to help stop the exploitation of the Xate leaf. They would be more concerned about our endangered species that are being hunted or displaced. Instead of setting themselves on fire they would visit the schools to spark a passion for the environment. Their lack of concern about immediate threats to the environment and late arrival to the scene brings their motives into question.     
 
Now, it would be extremely irresponsible to suggest that no member of the coalition is genuine. However, before any of them can be taken seriously they must explain where they were. -1 1 0 59 2/10/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane D. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 3 0 589 robots= author= 2817 Mega-Bingo has Hopkins woman go from rags to riches mega-bingo-has-hopkins-woman-go-from-rags-to-riches Penny Polanco, a resident of Hopkins Village, walked into the offices of JD Financials Belize, which operates Mega-Bingo, to collect the first grand prize that the company has offered in Belize since it started its operations on December 22, 2010.

Polanco’s story is rather heartwarming as on Saturday morning she had been unceremoniously evicted from her home in Hopkins village and was out on the street. That very day she decided to spend her last 20 dollars to buy ten tickets of the game and was overwhelmed when 24 numbers appeared consecutively on one of her tickets.

The Mega-Bingo’s jackpot stood at $114,000; after taxes Polanco took home $96,920.55. She says she will purchase a home and buy a boat for her husband who is a fisherman. The Mega-Bingo jackpot reverts back to 100 thousand dollars. After every drawing the pot becomes larger if no one wins. -1 1 0 59 2/10/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 1363 robots= author= 2818 DOE Officers Power to Enter Premises doe-officers-power-to-enter-premises

The Department of the Environment (DOE), within the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment, has noted that recently there is an escalating issue concerning the access to premises by DOE personnel.  The DOE would like to inform the general public, particularly the business and industrial sectors, that it is an offence to obstruct or prohibit an “authorized officer” of the Department of the Environment access to a premise in the exercise of his/her duties.  Kindly note that section 5 of the Environmental Protection Act, Chapter 328 of the Laws of Belize Revised Edition 2000 states:
 
“(1) Subject to the provisions of this Act, it shall be lawful for duly designated officers of the Department, in carrying out their duties, to have the right to enter at all reasonable times any kind of installation, factory, plant or premises and to require the person in charge to provide them with all relevant information and to assist them in their duties under this Act.
 
(2) A designated officer may, in exercise of powers conferred by subsection (1)-

(c) take photographs of and on any land or premises as he considers necessary;

(f) require any person in any place entered, to produce for inspection or for the purpose of taking copies any books, documents or papers relevant to the administration of this Act or regulations made thereunder.
 
(3)The purposes referred to in subsection (2) are as follows-

(b) for the good administration of this Act or regulations made thereunder.”
 
As such, any personnel of a business establishment, especially security personnel, will be committing an offence if such personnel prohibits or obstructs an authorized DOE officer access to a premise or hinders an authorized officer in the line of his/her duties.  Any offence or violations of these articles will be dealt with to the full extent of the law.
 
Kindly note that section 46 of the same Environmental Protection Act, Chapter 328 of the Laws of Belize Revised Edition 2000 states:
 
“Notwithstanding the provisions of the Interpretation Act, regulations made under this Act may provide that the contravention or breach thereof shall be punishable on summary conviction by a fine not exceeding twenty thousand dollars or a term of imprisonment or by both such fine and imprisonment.”

Press Release

-1 1 0 59 2/10/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 622 robots= author= 2819 Putting the Money to Work!!! putting-the-money-to-work Graders and other heavy duty machines have never looked as delightful as they do today. It has been a very long time since our city streets have seen the level of refurbishment that is currently being executed by the Ministry of Works. Most of the streets have long passed their fifteen to twenty year service period and pothole patching is no longer useful since the infrastructural core has succumbed to injuries caused by inexcusable neglect.

The first impactful infrastructural project in Belize City since the 1993-1998 administration is in full swing and residents across the old capital are welcoming the noisy machines in their neighborhoods. Nowhere is this more evident than on Neal’s Pen Road. For more than a week now residents of Pen Road have gladly cooperated with employees of the Belize Water Services Limited who are executing Phase I of that refurbishment project. Residents have cooperated by changing routes to work/school daily according to the section of the street being worked on by the BWSL crew. BWSL is relining their pipe system on the street to meet the standards necessary for the double dressing chip and seal paving that will be executed on Pen Road from its junction with Faber’s Road to Yarborough Bridge. With proper maintenance, the newly paved street should effectively serve residents of the area for fifteen years.

Pen Road is just one of the many streets that heavy machines are visiting. In an interview with the Minister of Works, Hon. Anthony “Boots” Martinez, he explained that street repairs and refurbishment is currently being undertaken across the city. Minister Martinez said that the Government of Belize has set aside $1 million for north side streets.  With this, the Buttonwood Bay Boulevard, Hummingbird Street and Juliet Soberanis Street projects have been completed. Albert Hoy Street, Park Avenue and University Crescents are among others on which repairs and refurbishment is currently being executed or is about to be executed upon. Later in the year an additional $10 million will be provided under an Inter-American Development Bank project for North side infrastructural development. Minister Martinez said the funds will be used to address more streets and develop the drainage system for the Belama area.

Minister Martinez emphasized that the north side projects will not slow down Phase II of the Southside Project. In addition to the repaving of Pen Road, Faber’s Road will be refurbished from its junction with the Western Highway to its junction with Caesar Ridge Road. The squatters on Jane Usher Boulevard have already been relocated and that street will finally be developed to effectively serve residents of that area. The canal from Yarborough Bridge to Vernon Street Bridge will be lined with cement and properly barricaded.

That of course will most likely be accompanied by street repair of the entire stretch. Perhaps the boldest project will be the first to be completed, hot mix paving of Central American Boulevard. Central American Boulevard will be paved with hot mix from the Belcan Bridge to its junction with Caesar Ridge Road. The reason this project will be realized shortly is because the hot mix material is already here in the country. The boulevard does not need extensive preparatory work for the hot mix process. According to Minister Martinez, the project will commence at the end of March or in early April and will take a month to complete. Based on that, it is safe to say that pedestrians and motorists will be enjoying a first class boulevard by May of this year.

In addition to the Southside projects mentioned, Minister Martinez said that several secondary streets will be repaved as well under this phase. Those include Benbow Street, Mex Avenue, Gill Street, Baracat Street, Guerrero Street, Ross Pen Road, Reggae Street and others.                 -1 1 0 40 2/10/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane D. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 3 0 782 robots= author= 2820 Careless Dan careless-dan It can only be classified as an act of pure carelessness that led a watchman to walk away with a gun belonging to Dan Silva. He reported to police that on the night of Thursday, February 3, he left his licensed 9 millimeter pistol and magazine with six live rounds of ammunition inside a locker at Cahal Pech Resort.

The intention was for the watchman identified as Marvin Virulla to have access to the weapon in case of emergency. This seems to be an odd arrangement since firearms are only licensed to individuals for their use and having an unlicensed person have access to that firearm can be classified as negligent. Nonetheless, Silva left the gun under the care of the watchman who reported to Silva on Friday that he had left the gun on the floor of the restaurant on Thursday and that it was stolen.

Fortunately, police’s quick investigations into the matter led them to find the gun at the home of the watchman. He was arrested and charged with the crime of keeping a firearm without a license and keeping ammunition without a gun license. We dear add that maybe Silva ought to also be charged for negligence for having kept the firearm in an unsecure location and for giving the watchman permission to access the firearm. If there were such a charge, we would suggest that he also be charged for stupidity for having given permission to a watchman to illegally have possession of the gun.

We need say no more of the incident; however, we must promptly note that Silva is known for some severe miscalculations in the past. Not least among these is the soybean project which was to have been implemented under his watch as the Minister of Agriculture in the ’98 – 2003 PUP maladministration during which almost 40 million dollars was spent on the project which to this day has not ground a single grain of soy and remains one of the largest financial blunders of the PUP administration.  Silva is also known for oft hasty and whimsical decisions.

Stories abound of him walking into his office as the then Minister of Agriculture and threatening to resign only to fall comfortably back into his seat and carry on the PUP business as usual. Most recently he resigned from the People’s United Party as one of that party’s deputies. While he has done so, our deep throat sources within that party say that they are anxiously awaiting him to come in and physically sign his resignation letter which has already been prepared for him. But apparently he won’t and he remains a PUP deputy leader as that party’s television station Channel Five mentioned him as still being a PUP party leader. -1 1 0 40 2/10/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 813 robots= author= 2821 New Schools in San Vicente and Hope Creek Villages to be inaugurated new-schools-in-san-vicente-and-hope-creek-villages-to-be-inaugurated

Belmopan, 9th February 2011: Two major school projects, which will address the educational needs of children in San Vicente and Hope Creek Villages in the Toledo and Stann Creek Districts respectively, will be officially inaugurated this week.  The total cost of both projects is approximately $1.3 Million and  will benefit some 446  students. Both projects were implemented by the Social Investment Fund, a statutory body under the auspices of the Ministry of Economic Development. 

The new school building in San Vicente Village will be inaugurated on Thursday morning, 10th February at the project site.  This project consisted of the construction and completion of a 25 ft wide by 240 ft long one-storey reinforced concrete school building with timber and concrete roof and strip and pad foundation, comprising of six classrooms, a library, and principal’s office and a male and female bathroom block. All exterior doors are solid timber panel doors and the windows are storm guard aluminum louvers. Also included in the project were the installation of electrical, lighting and plumbing fixtures, and a standard septic tank with soak-away waste water system and the provision of school furniture, including teachers tables and chairs, students’ armchairs, cupboards and bookshelves.

The total cost of the San Vicente School project was $414,000.  Of this amount, $331,000 was a grant from the  Basic Needs Trust Fund  (BNTF 5), a program promoting poverty reduction through socio-economic initiatives and community empowerment.  BNTF5 is jointly financed by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) and nine beneficiary governments, including Belize. The Government of Belize contributed $83,000 in counterpart funding. Some 140 school children will benefit from the new school, which will also serve as a hurricane shelter. Prior to the project, the children were housed in a small wooden building.

San Vicente is a remote village located 40 miles northwest of Punta Gorda Town near the Belize/Guatemalan border and 5 miles from Jalacte Village. The village was established  around 1986 by farmers from Jalacte and surrounding areas.  San Vicente has a population of 329 inhabitants.

Meanwhile, the new Hope Creek Methodist School will be inaugurated on Friday morning, 11th February at the project site in Hope Creek Village. The project included the construction  of a 8,800 square foot, two-storey reinforced concrete structure measuring 30 ft 6 inches wide by 144 ft long. The building has four classrooms, a library, an administration office and a female bathroom block on the ground floor.  The first floor has four classrooms, a computer laboratory and a male and female bathroom block.

Hope Creek Methodist School has been growing in population since it was established seven years ago.   Prior to the project, the children were housed in prefabricated buildings, which were in very poor condition.  The new school building will, therefore, provide an enhanced educational environment for both children and teachers.  A playground with swings, slides and seesaws, school furniture along with some landscaping was included in the project to further enhance the children’s educational environment. Some 306 children will benefit from the project.

The new Hope Creek Methodist School was financed by the Government of Belize through the Commonwealth Debt Initiative (CDI) at a total cost of $888,645.00  The community of Hope Creek contributed materials and labor for the project. 

Hope Creek Village is situated in the Stann Creek Valley Area of the Stann Creek District along the Hummingbird Highway.  It has a population of about 1,500 persons and was established in 1962.

The guest speaker at the inauguration of both projects will be the Hon Patrick Faber, Minister of Education and Youth, along with the respective Area Representatives, Ministers Juan Coy and Hon Arthur Roches, as well as representatives of the Social Investment Fund among others.

-1 1 0 40 2/10/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 758 robots= author= 2822 Plane landing cops back in court plane-landing-cops-back-in-court On November 13, 2010 when a drug plane landed outside Bladden area on the Southern Highway, five police officers and a Customs Boatman were charged in connection with the landing.

On Wednesday February 9, the men were back in Belize City as police proceeded with charges against them. The men: Jacinto Roches, Lawrence Humes, Nelson Middleton, Renel Grant and Harold Usher appeared before Chief Magistrate, Margaret Gabb-Mckenzie where their attorney Dickie Bradley informed the court that the men have applied for bail at the Supreme Court level and is currently before Justice Troadio Gonzalez in Belmopan. He also explained that the police have concluded their investigations into the incident and the file has been forwarded to the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. He then asked for an adjournment which was granted for March 17 when the matter will go into a Preliminary Inquiry. The men were then further remanded to prison.

The courtroom was crowded as law enforcement officers from the Belize Police Department, officers attached to B/SAC, a special unit attach to Price Barracks, as well as members of the Anti Drug Unit were present. The men, who were brought to the court at around 8:00 a.m., did not leave until after 10:00 a.m. One relative who was outside the courtroom was upset and cried out when she saw her family member being escorted out of the courtroom in shackles and cuffs. She hollered out that she just could not understand why they had to treat the men like that. Relatives outside the court said they were told they could not be inside the courtroom and they were barred out.

The arrest of the men came after police had launched an investigation into the landing of a Super King Air Beech Craft type twin Engine aircraft which landed on the southern highway near the Bladden Nature Reserve loaded with cocaine valued over $140 million US dollars.

Charged in connection with the plane were, police officers Jacinto Roches, Lawrence Humes, Nelson Middleton, and Renel Grant  along with the only Customs Boatman Harold Usher while a fifth police officer, identified as Vidal Cajun was charged for firearm and ammunition offences but got bail through the Supreme Court on December 10.   The other five men who appeared today were also granted bail on December 10, 2010, but could not meet it because the following day they were additionally charged with abetment to a crime in the landing of the plane. The new charge disallows them from meeting the $8,000 bail which was granted to them by Justice Troadio Gonzalez in December 2010.

Since the new charges were levied against them, a bail hearing which began in Belize City in mid January is still before Justice Gonzalez and a decision as to whether bail will be granted or denied has not yet been reached. -1 1 0 39 2/10/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 4 0 955 robots= author= 2823 Charles Young Jr. charged with double murder charles-young-jr-charged-with-double-murder On Tuesday, February 8, the Special Homicide Unit of the Belize Police Department escorted 20-year-old Charles Young Jr., a resident of #6605 Police Street, before Chief Magistrate Margaret Gabb-Mckenzie.  Young Jr., who is no stranger to police or the court, was charged with five counts: two counts of murder, one count of attempted murder; one count of dangerous harm and one count of use of deadly means of harm upon Darnell Puerto. In court, an emotional Young Jr. was crying when the charges were read to him. That’s because according to his attorney, Arthur Saldivar, his client was picked up with no evidence against him.

Police sources we spoke with say they have eyewitnesses who placed Young Jr. at the murder scene. On Friday, February 4, gunmen pulled up to the home of twins Daniel and Darnell Puerto located at the corner of Hibiscus and Tibruce Streets in the Saint Martin’s de Porres area and opened fire at the Puertos and Ian Martinez who was in the area. At the end of the hail of bullets, 17-year-old Daniel Puerto had been shot multiple times to the neck, left leg, right side of the back and left hand.  Martinez was shot to the neck, rib cage and left shoulder. Darnell was hit on both arms and legs. He was the only survivor following the shooting.

In January of this year, Young Jr. walked from a gun charge after police allegedly found him and four others, including Jeffery Flowers, inside a green taxi with a 9mm that was seen being thrown out of the car. They walked from the charge after the police were unable to proceed in the trial against them with evidence to substantiate the charge. He is also before the Magistrate’s Court on a firearm offense. He has other charges pending against him including robbery, aggravated assault and others.  All told, he has 15 offences before the court. Charles Young Jr. is due back in court on February 16. -1 1 0 39 2/10/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 3 0 890 robots= author= 2824 Indians charged for Immigration offences indians-charged-for-immigration-offences Two Indian nationals, one who is visiting Belize- the other a businessman, were before the courts on Tuesday February 8 on immigration charges.  According to Immigration personnel they caught up with a boss and his alleged employee violating the laws of an employment permit and a working permit.

39-year-old Mukesh Makhwani, the owner of God’s Store Warehouse located at #48 Amara Avenue was arraigned in Court #4 before Magistrate Aretha Ford on a single charge of employing a person not in possession of an employment permit. Allegations are that he employed Indra Kumar Vaswani an Indian national who Immigration personnel claim they caught on February 7 working at Makhwani’s warehouse.

In court this morning, Makhwani pleaded not guilty to the charge and was offered bail in the sum of $2,500 which he met. He is due back in court on March 28. Meanwhile 23-year-old Indian national, Indra Kumar Vaswani a resident of #5957 Calle Al Mar Street was charged with the offence of failure to comply with the conditions subject to which an employment permit has been granted. The permit says that he was to be employed at Extra House by Jitendra Chawla as a General Sales person.

In court, he initially pleaded guilty but when it appeared that he did not understand the charge, Magistrate Teck entered an equivocal plea of not guilty on his behalf. The Immigration personnel had objected to bail on the grounds that they were not certain of his status and that he was a flight risk. His status, however, is that he has a valid working permit and that he has been in the country for two years since age 21. 

After that was established, bail was offered in the sum of $4,000 plus two sureties.  One of the sureties must be Belizean.  He must report to the clerk of court every Friday beginning Friday, February 11, and he must show up at all his court adjournments and surrender all travelling documents to the court.

In court, Vaswani told the magistrate that he came to Belize on a five year contract with Chawla but that he began to take advantage of him and not pay him in full. The Magistrate told him that he must seek legal advice and take out a law suit against Chawla and advised him to visit the Labour Department. Vaswani is due back in court on March 16, a date separate from Makhwani’s. -1 1 0 39 2/10/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 841 robots= author= 2825 Nolle Pros for Charles Castillo nolle-pros-for-charles-castillo- On Tuesday, February 8, the murder trial of 22-year-old Charles Castillo, a Construction Worker of #7312 McKenzie Lane who was accused of gunning down 20-year-old Tyrone Terrick Castellanos on March 30, 2008 ended in a Nolle Prosequi. Crown Counsel for the DPP’s office Yohhanseh Cave entered a Nolle Prosequi in the Supreme Court before Justice Adolph Lucas. It was not all freedom for Castillo as he is incarcerated at the Belize Central Prison on firearm and drug trafficking convictions.

In 2008, Castillo, along with Cordell Flowers/Flores and Alrick Olivera were jointly charged with murder and conspiracy to commit murder in Castellanos’ shooting death. At the time, on March 30, 2008, Castellanos was on Central American Boulevard when a gunman passed and fired several shots at him fatally hitting him in the back of the head. Police picked up Olivera shortly after the incident and issued warrants for the arrest of Flowers and Charles Castillo.

On April 1, 2008, Flowers and Olivera were jointly charged with the murder followed by the arrest and charge of Castillo who was not picked up and charged until April 23, 2008. Police in 2008 believed they had enough evidence on the three men but shortly after the committal of the case to the April session of the Supreme Court in 2009, Flowers and Olivera walked from the murder leaving Castillo behind. While police strongly believed the triggerman was Castillo, in the trail that began on Monday, February 7, Yohhanseh Cave’s two main witnesses failed to assist him.

The case started off on the wrong foot when the first witness 18 year old Jermaine Matura indicated that he did not want to testify, nonetheless he took the stand and as Cave asked him as many as 5 questions he proved to be unhelpful to the prosecution. Matura is currently remanded on a murder charge from a shooting incident in Belize City.

Cave’s first question to Matura was “Do you wish to give evidence in his case?  He said “no”.  He continued asking “Do you wish to give the court a reason why you do not want to give evidence in this matter?” He also said “no”. “Can you say if you gave a statement in the matter to police in 2008?” He said “yes”. But the last question Cave put to Matura was as to whether the contents of that statement was true and that’s when he said “no”. Matura said that what he gave police as a statement was a lie.

Cave then indicated to the court that his second witness, Catherine Blease, the sister of Jermaine Matura would not want to testify either as she had indicated this earlier on. When the matter continued after a day of adjournment Blease was a no-show at court. That’s when Cave entered a Nolle Prosequi in the case. Charles Castillo, who was 19 when he was charged with the murder of Castellanos, is presently serving a jail term for a firearm offense and his earliest release date is December 26, 2013.

Jermaine Matura has been remanded to prison since August 23, 2010 for the murder of Hellen Yu, 14, who was shot during a robbery at her family store on August 19, 2010 on Raccoon Street Extension.

This is the DPP’s second Nolle Prosequi in the Supreme Court since the session began.  The first was that of Roger Anthony who walked from the drive by murder of Dillon Bennett which occurred in 2008 at the stop light located at the corner of Mahogany Street and Central American Boulevard. In this case, the Nolle Prosequi was filed by the DPP after the main witnesses recanted their story given to police about the shooting incident. -1 1 0 39 2/10/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 674 robots= author= 2826 Common sense about Cancer common-sense-about-cancer Congratulations to the Belize Cancer Society and Mrs. Kim Barrow for sponsoring a Cervical Cancer and Pap Smear Campaign.  Of the nearly 600 women who participated in the first stage and the additional 200 or so who will take advantage of the outreach campaign there will be several who will discover that they need to take additional treatment.  Some will be in the early precancerous stages while a few will find that they have cancerous cells.  Certainly several lives will be saved because of this intervention.  Of equal importance is the education that goes along with the campaign that will help to change behaviour and hence reduce the incidence of cervical cancer.
 
Just talking openly about cancer is a huge step forward in the fight to control it.  For many of the women who attended the clinic it will have been the first Pap test they have ever taken.  They will now be more likely to take the initiative to get regular tests on their own either through the NHI, BFLA or private providers.  They will also be more aware of the need to support advocacy to provide more such services through the public health system.
 
Education about behaviour change is only the first step.  Actually effecting such change on a regular basis is more difficult.  However, as in other areas, it is always easier to do something when you do it as a group.  That is the primary benefit of public campaigns.  We see that several successful campaigns aimed at behaviour change running from Alcoholics Anonymous to Weight Watchers use group therapies of some type.  It’s easier to change our behaviour if everyone around us is doing the same.
 
The behaviours that we need to change are not rocket science but that does not make them easy to do.  Not smoking is the number one change that women and men can make that will reduce the incidence of all kinds of cancer and many other health dangers such as heart disease.  As the old joke goes, “Quitting is easy.  I’ve done it hundreds of times.”  The difficulty is making the change permanent and it’s easier for most people not to do it alone.
 
Most of us know the importance of a good and balanced diet but how many of us get at least five servings of fruit and vegetables a day and reduce the salt, fat and sugar in our food?  Now that many of us do not get most of our food at home it’s even more important to plan ahead rather than just buying food on impulse.  Each of us should devise our own weekly meal plan that can include a few “treats” but will give us a good balance.  If families plan together it will help with compliance and it will be especially important in inculcating good eating habits in our children.  The same is true of exercise.  We know how important it is but very few of us schedule it into our lives.  It may be hard to find the fifteen to thirty minutes a day but it takes far more time to deal with the health issues that arise when we neglect regular exercise.
 
Attending to our sexual and reproductive health is imperative to improving our overall health but is an area that until recently could not be discussed publicly.  Early sexual activity, multiple sexual partners and unsafe sexual practices have many negative consequences from unwanted pregnancies to sexually transmitted infections including HIV/AIDS and the HPV virus that causes cervical cancer.  Although each individual has to make his or her own choices it helps if there is a supporting social consensus. 
     
This social consensus is important in all aspects of positive behaviour change.  It will not work if it is solely proscriptive – telling us only what we cannot do. It must guide our actions realistically into the healthiest possible choices.  Activities such as the recent Pap Smear Campaign play an important role in building this social consensus. 
     
Let’s stay healthy together. -1 10 0 56 2/10/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 131 robots= author= 2827 Belize Defence Force and Toledo Ambassadors play to a draw belize-defence-force-and-toledo-ambassadors-play-to-a-draw The Belize Premier Football League Caribbean Motors Cup championship round opened on Sunday, February 6, 2011, at the Toledo Union Field in Punta Gorda Town between the defending national champions the Belize Defence Force and the Toledo Ambassadors. The Toledo Ambassadors walked into the history books by becoming the first semi-pro team from the Toledo District to advance to the championship round of the Belize Premier Football League.

The Toledo Ambassadors did not disappoint its many fans and supporters from the Toledo district and from across the country when it held the defending champion and the competition’s favourite the Belize Defence Force, to a 2-2 draw.

The home team Toledo Ambassadors got on the scoreboard first when Devon Makin scored the 1st goal of the game in the 8th minute of play to give his team a temporary lead. The equalizing goal for the visiting Belize Defence Force was scored by Richard Jimenez in the 12th minute of play to net the score at 1-1.

However, the Toledo Ambassadors’ Ralph Flores scored his team’s 2nd and final goal of the game in the 24th minute of play for a 2 to 1 lead. The first half of the game ended 2 to 1 in favour of the Toledo Ambassadors.

In the second half of the game, both teams’ defence played like real champions and nobody gave up anything until the Belize Defence Force was able to penetrate the Ambassadors defence when Erwin Flores scored his team’s second equalizing goal in the 73rd minute of play for the 2- 2 draw.

The second and final game is scheduled for this Sunday, February 13, at the Norman Broaster Stadium in San Ignacio town commencing at 4:00 pm. -1 1 0 41 2/10/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 7 0 764 robots= author= 2828 Wesley College boys lead in high schools softball competition wesley-college-boys-lead-in-high-schools-softball-competition The Central Region Secondary Schools Softball Competition continued on Monday February 7, 2011, at Rogers Stadium. In the female competition, Gwen Lizarraga High School defeated Anglican Cathedral College by the score of 22 to 3. The winning pitcher was Raslyn Smith.

In the male game, defending champions Wesley College continued on its winning path when it won over Anglican Cathedral College via the forfeiture route. Wesley College was leading in the game by the score of 20 to 3, when Anglican Cathedral College decided that it will not continue to play the game.

On Saturday, February 5, in the first of three female games played, Anglican Cathedral College won by forfeiture over Excelsior High School. In game two, Ladyville Technical High School defeated Pallotti High School by the score of 15 to 5. The winning pitcher was Crystal James and the losing pitcher was Gorlee Marin.

In the final game of the day, Wesley College defeated St. Catherine Academy by the score of 18 to 2. The winning pitcher was Melissa Williams and the losing pitcher was Tyra Moriera. On Friday, February 4, in the female game, Nazarene High School won via the default route over Gwen Lizarraga High School.

In the male game, Gwen Lizarraga High School defeated Excelsior High School by the score of 19 to 16. The winning pitcher was H. Middleton and the losing pitcher was Aaron Brown.

On Thursday, February 3, in the female game, Pallotti High School defeated Excelsior High School by the score of 19 to 17 in a wild one. The winning pitcher was Gorlee Marin and the losing pitcher was Francisca Clare. In the male game, St. John’s College defeated Anglican Cathedral College by the score of 18 to 4. The winning pitcher was Myric Marin and the losing pitcher was Ito Acosta. -1 1 0 41 2/10/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 6 0 562 robots= author= 2829 Marlon Castillo to defend Valentine Day Classic Championship marlon-castillo-to-defend-valentine-day-classic-championship The 16th Annual Digicell Valentine Cycling Classic is scheduled for Sunday, February 13, 2011. The race is organised by the Belize Cycling Association and BTL/Digicell under the regulations of the International Cycling Union.

The Elite/open race is scheduled to commence at 9:00am from in front of the San Ignacio Hotel to the Benque Border and then onto Mile 1 ½ on the Western Highway for the finish in front of Leslie’s Imports.  Marlon Castillo will be defending his championship he won a year ago.

The Junior/Youth riders will commence at 9:00am from Central Farm to Mile 1 ½ on the Western Highway for the finish also in front of Leslie’s Imports.
Meanwhile, the Female and Masters categories 4 and 5 riders will commence their journey at 9:15am from Central Farm and like the other segments of the Valentine Classic it will also conclude in front of Leslie’s Imports at Mile 1 ½ on the Western Highway. -1 1 0 41 2/10/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 5 0 648 robots= author= 2830 Belize Softball Federation Press Release belize-softball-federation-press-release The President, Executive and members of the Management Council of the Belize Softball Federation regret to announce the death of Mr. Lennox “Carrots” Cattouse which occurred on Friday, February 4, 2011. He was an Honorary Life Member, former coach of the National Female and Male Softball Teams of Belize, member of the Belize Softball Federation and player.

The funeral service for the late Mr. Lennox “Carrots” Cattouse is scheduled for Sunday, February 13, at 2:00 pm at Rogers Stadium. The body will be interred at the Lord’s Ridge Cemetery following his funeral services.

The President is requesting that all softball players, Head Coaches, umpires and officers of the Federation attend the funeral service in their uniform jerseys. -1 1 0 41 2/10/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 4 0 682 robots= author= 2831 Holy Redeemer girls and St. Martin’s De Porres boys are city primary schools basketball champions holy-redeemer-girls-and-st-martins-de-porres-boys-are-city-primary-schools-basketball-champions The 2010-2011 Belize City Primary Schools Basketball Championship came to an end on Monday, February 7, 2011, at the Belize City Centre. In the female championship game, Holy Redeemer School proved too much for Queen Square Anglican School and easily upended it by the score of 20 to 2. The top scorer for Holy Redeemer was Shanice Neal with 8 points, while Shenique Medle scored the 2 points for Queen Square Anglican School.

In the male championship game, St. Martin’s De Porres School squeezed by St. Ignatius School in a nail biter by the score of 38 to 37. The top scorer for St. Martin’s De Porres was Clency Lopez with 22 points and the top scorer for St. Ignatius School was Akeem Baptist with 26 points.

On Friday, February 4, in the female semi-final round in game one, Holy Redeemer School eliminated St. Luke Methodist by the score of 16 to 0. The top scorer for Holy Redeemer was Indie Dixon with 8 points.

In the second female game, Queen Square Anglican School eliminated its sister school St. John’s Primary School by the score of 10 to 8. The top scorer for Queen Square Anglican School was Tyra Bradley with 4 points and the top scorer for St. John’s Primary School was Monique Smith also with 4 points.

In the male semi-final game one, St. Martin’s De Porres School pulled off the first upset of the afternoon when it eliminated All Saints Anglican School by the score of 37 to 28. The top scorer for St. Martin’s De Porres was Ashton Pitts with 14 points, while the top scorer for All Saints’ Anglican was Keyvon Evans with 14 points.

In the second male game, St. Ignatius School pulled off the biggest upset in this year’s primary schools basketball competition, when it eliminated the competition’s favourite and undefeated school Wesley Upper by the score of 55 to 49. The top scorer for St. Ignatius School was Akeem Baptist with 26 points and the top scorer for Wesley Upper was Shaquile Crawford with 23 points. The Belize District Primary Schools Basketball Championship is scheduled for Wednesday, February 9, at the Belize City Centre.

The Belize City representatives in the female competition are Holy Redeemer School and Queen Square Anglican School, while the Belize Rural representatives are St. Agnes Anglican of La Democracia and St. Thomas Anglican from Double Head Cabbage. In the male competition, the Belize City representatives are St. Martin’s De Porres School and St. Ignatius School while the Belize Rural representatives are Our Lady of the Way RC from Ladyville and Burrell Boom Methodist School. -1 1 0 41 2/10/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 3 0 689 robots= author= 2832 National Secondary Schools Football championship this weekend national-secondary-schools-football-championship-this-weekend The National Secondary Schools Sports Association (NSSSA) Football championship will be played this Friday and Saturday, February 11 and 12, 2011 respectively, at the Marshalleck Stadium in Benque Viejo Town, Cayo District.

The championship will feature the champions of each region in both the female and male competitions. Representing the Central Region in female is Gwen Lizarraga High School and male St. John’s College, the West in female Sacred Heart College and male Our Lady of Guadalupe High School (Belmopan), from the North female San Pedro High School and in male Corozal Community College, and from the South female Stann Creek Ecumenical College and male Julian Cho Technical High School.

The competition will commence on Friday, February 11, and concludes on Saturday, February 12. -1 1 0 41 2/10/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 198 robots= author= 2833 Telemedia U-15 and U-17 competition heats up telemedia-u-15-and-u-17-competition-heats-up The Belize District Basketball Association Telemedia’s U-15 and U-17 competitions continued on Monday, February 7, 2011, at the Belize City Centre. In the U-15 competition, Belama Hittaz defeated ACC Deacons by the score of 36 to 31. The top scorers for Belama Hittaz were Tyrell Ramclam with 11 points and 15 rebounds, and Raheem Staine and Malcolm Nunez with 6 points. Meanwhile, the top scorers for ACC Deacons were Auburn Rivero with 12 points and 8 points, and Rasheed Adolphus and Alex O’Brian with 7 points each.

In U-17 competition, Belama Ballaz defeated ACC Deacons by the score of 79 to 78. The top scorers for Belama Ballaz were Alejandro Baptist with 35 points and 23 rebounds, Herman Castillo with 12 points and 10 rebounds, and Jayford Cacho with 10 points and 19 points.

Meanwhile, the top scorers for the ACC Deacons were Terrique Gabb with 33 points and Travis Bermudez with 23 points and 21 rebounds. On Sunday February 6, in the first of three U-15 games, Yahbrah defeated Eagles by the score of 55 to 6. The top scorers for Yahbrah were Clency Lopez and Devin Parham with 14 points each, while the top scorer for Eagles was Jovanni Fuentez with 3 points.

In game two, Plaza defeated Dog Pound Boys by the score of 49 to 36. The top scorers for the Plaza were Jovanin Broaster with 17 points and Mark Thompson with 11 points and 8 rebounds. For the Dog Pound Boys, the top scorers were Ari Vergo with 10 points and Damiam Leslie with 8 points and 7 rebounds.

In the final U-15 game, Truckers defeated Boom Celtics by the score of 33 to 31. The top scorers for Truckers were Anfernee Brooks with 16 points and Raheem Flowers with 5 points and 6 rebounds. Meanwhile, the top scorers for Boom Celtics were Isanny Pook with 13 points and 13 rebounds, and Matthew Haylock with 6 points and 6 rebounds.

In the first of two U-17 games played, Ladyville defeated Caye Caulker by the score of 55 to 29. The top scorers for Ladyville were Darren Longsworth with 32 points and 9 rebounds and Clyde Mollis with 7 points and 3 rebounds. For the Caye Caulker team the top scorers were Artie Allen with 11 points and 12 rebounds and Osmin Arana with 9 points.

In the final U-17 game played, All Star Baller defeated Seh Sorry by the score of 74 to 60. The top scorers for All Star Baller were Brandon Harris with 25 points and 4 rebounds, and Aleem Richardson with 16 points and 9 rebounds. For Seh Sorry, the top scorers were Mandy Caliz with 26 points and 5 rebounds and Albert Wagner with 11 points and 8 rebounds.

On Friday, February 4, in the only game played in the U-15 competition, ACC Deacons defeated Dog Pound Boys by the score of 73 to 19. The top scorers for the ACC Deacons were Alex O’Brian with 15 points and 8 rebounds, and Auburn Rivero with 10 points and 7 rebounds. For the Dog Pound Boys, the top scorers were Jason Garnett with 7 points and Damiam Leslie with 6 points. -1 1 0 41 2/10/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/10/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 240 robots= author= 2834 GOB’s Food Basket Program benefits 305 families gobs-food-basket-program-benefits-305-families In October of last year the government began the implementation of the food basket program where families who earn 35 dollars and less per member per week are assisted with subsidized food. The program is one which is administered by the Salvation Army and sees families access a basket of food worth 25 dollars for half the prices.

Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Human Development Judith Alpuche explained to the Guardian that so far 305 families have signed on to the program. The basket of food includes everyday products including rice, beans, flour, sugar, fruits and vegetables among other products. Alpuche says that while there are already participants in the program the Department of Human Development is actively seeking out new beneficiaries.

The way the program works is that applicants are screened by the Department of Human Development and if they meet the criteria, they are placed on the list of those who would be beneficiaries. Alpuche says that the 35 dollar mark for qualification was placed because “when you look at the food basket that people eat in this country it costs around 35 dollars to feed somebody”. She continued to explain that the government’s focus is being placed on working families who live below the poverty line in an effort to have those families “stretch their money a little bit more”. She continued “It’s a way for government to extend a hand in a tangible way to help provide the basics for families”.

As government extends a hand, Alpuche added that there are still spaces available and people who think they meet the criteria need only apply. CEO Alpuche says that through the application process the human development department gathers information of families through a questionnaire to have as much data on the applicants. While the applicant may be applying for the food basket program, Alpuche says that the information gathered will serve the ministry to design better programs to assist those people who need it.

She says that she encourages persons to apply for the program. As it stands the government has allotted one million dollars in the program and the Ministry of Human Development is actively recruiting beneficiaries through companies who employ persons.  For now 305 families are involved in the program and measures are being put in place to scale up the number of persons who benefit.

The program is financed completely by the Government of Belize and is administered by the Salvation Army of Belize. -1 6 0 53 2/17/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 2245 robots= author= 2835 Big time support for Boots in Port Loyola big-time-support-for-boots-in-port-loyola The endorsement convention of Hon. Anthony “Boots” Martinez for the Port Loyola Constituency was held on Sunday, February 13, at the Wilton Cumberbatch Field. Boots or “Shoes”, as he is more affectionately referred to now, is one of the most powerful Ministers of Government. As Minister of Works he has touched the entire country through Prime Minister Barrow’s infrastructural development agenda. That is why his colleagues from Cabinet travelled from across the country in terrible weather conditions to endorse good old Shoes.

Despite the weather, a couple thousand residents of Port Loyola made their way to celebrate with their beloved Representatives. Some call him “daddy” and it was the first time that their daddy was not challenged in the area. Not only is that a testament to his work in Port Loyola, it is also a testament to Port Loyolans’ loyalty to him. For that reason, Boots/Shoes/Daddy decided to put on a show for his people.

The program featured a star studded cast of high ranking Government officials and entertainers. There were many performances including that of the Cultural Ambassador, “Titiman” Flores, the great Paul Nabor, Ernestine Carballo and the General Supa G himself. The award for performance of the day is still yet to be determined as Shoes and a couple of his constituents were equally impressive. Several Ministers of Government made endorsement speeches. Hon. John Saldivar spoke about the tough years that both he and his friend experienced. He spoke about the losses but the perseverance that is common between them both.

Chairman of the United Democratic Party, Hon. Patrick Faber, spoke about the similar demographics between Collet and Port Loyola. He said that if the people of Collet put him back in the House he will be looking for his friend to be next to him. Deputy Party Leader and Area Representative for Orange Walk North, Hon. Gaspar Vega, said that Boots is a true friend who goes all out for his colleagues. The Leader of the United Democratic Party, Prime Minister Barrow, said that Boots is the one man he knows who will literally take the shirt off his back to give to a friend in need. He said that Boots is the key implementer of Government’s programme for the poor. Prime Minister Barrow praised Boots for his accomplishments as Minister of Works and his national impact; however, he reiterated an advice the he always offers to Boots: “Do not neglect Port Loyola”. He closed by giving Boots his full endorsement.

Numerous prizes were given away at the event. Registered voters signed up for chances to win and their names were entered in a barrel. Different Area Representatives and officials of the UDP dipped their hands in and selected the names of Port Loyola registered voters. Residents won gift certificates, cellular phones, a microwave, a stove, a refrigerator, washing machine, flat screen television, sofa set and $5000. The ticket for the $5000 prize was selected by Hon. Dean Barrow who picked out the name Kirk Lamb. Lamb had five quick minutes to make his way to the stage to collect his prize and he was seconds away from losing out on $5000 before he got to the stage.

With all the giveaways, quality entertainment and motivational speeches by top government Ministers, it may be surprising that the most memorable act at the Port Loyola UDP Convention was done by a member of the People’s Unite Party- former member that is. Oscar Rosado came out in support of Anthony “Boots” Martinez. He thanked Boots for bringing job opportunities, road development and home improvement for the people of Port Loyola. He also thanked the Minister for giving him an opportunity to continue working for the people of Port Loyola. -1 6 0 53 2/17/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane D. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 2082 robots= author= 2836 Government forces the Scales to tip in consumers favor government-forces-the-scales-to-tip-in-consumers-favor The Government of Belize has been quick to respond to a series of reports by Channel 7 News which have been questioning the value of butane that is sold by gas companies in Belize. The series exposed that consumers have been paying far more than what they have been receiving in butane. As a result the Prime Minister has earmarked half a million dollars to boost the Bureau of Standards in an effort to secure equipment to be able to appropriately regulate the butane industry.

Additionally, the Ministry of Economic Development, under which the Bureau of Standards falls, is working on a statutory instrument which will ensure that butane companies use the appropriate measurement for the sale of butane. That measurement is that butane companies should retail butane by the pound and not by the gallon.

Starting on Wednesday of last week, Channel 7 News has been doing a series of reports featuring the sale of butane to Belizeans. In its reports, the news station has shun a bright light on what many have suspected but have always been unable to prove on the sale of butane in Belize. The 7 News series has pointed out that some butane gas companies have systematically been depriving consumers of the amount of butane that they have been purchasing. In one instance a 100 pound cylinder of butane was short of 30 pounds, that’s nearly 1/3 of what was to have been received by the consumer.

The 7 News series has continued everyday from Wednesday on to this week where their pursuit took them to an interview with businessman Lascell Arnold who proved that he had been scammed out of some 18 thousand dollars and who was refunded those monies without much contention from the gas company with whom he did business. Then the series went on with an interview with an ‘insider’ who described how butane companies tamper with the meters on their delivery trucks to gyp consumers out of butane.

Most recently 7 News travelled to Spanish Lookout where they found out the proper way of metering butane. In this instance a butane retailer sells butane by the pound as opposed to by the gallon. In speaking with 7 News’ Director Jules Vasquez he explained that he’s “extremely pleased that government is moving ahead with the S.I. with lightening speed.” He added that is “uncharacteristic speediness.” While government has acted on the issue with great speed and concern Vasquez noted that he will not stop his reporting on the issue as there is still the concern which he personally has been shorted $56 dollars by three companies combined.

Vasquez explained that there is also the issue of “the historical losses which consumers have suffered where hundreds of thousands of dollars and possibly millions of dollars that the companies have fleeced from consumers since they have stopped using scales.” There must be a way by which these companies be penalized for future infractions if they continue to use a business model which Vasquez believes “is built on skimming”. He concluded that the penalties must be substantial enough to ensure “that it is a perpetual deterrent. That they don’t reflexively laps into skimming again!”  -1 6 0 54 2/17/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 395 robots= author= 2837 Mrs. Kim Simplis-Barrow Presents: “An Affair of the Heart” mrs-kim-simplis-barrow-presents-an-affair-of-the-heart On Saturday, February 19, the Radisson Fort George Hotel will open its doors to an “Affair of the Heart”. The event is a fundraiser being led by the Special Envoy for Women and Children, Kim Simplis-Barrow. An Affair of the Heart is an evening of fine dining with fine company. It starts at 7 p.m. and there will be special performances by the legendary Ernie Smith and the Palotti Quartet.

All proceeds from the event will go towards the establishment of a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. It was on one of her visits to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital that Mrs. Barrow saw the need for an expansion of the Pediatric Unit and the establishment of an Intensive Care Unit. The importance of a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit cannot be overemphasized. Experts will tell you that pediatric healthcare is different from adult healthcare. Their favourite phrase is “children are not small adults”.

Apart from the differences in physical development there is also the psychological aspect of care. When we are injured or ill we want a comfortable, safe environment to get well in. Comfort differs for children and adults. What is comfortable to an adult may actually be frightening or intimidating to a child. That is the reason why pediatric facilities have child-friendly environments full of color, decorations and toys. Pediatric units also include pediatricians and nurses specialized in pediatrics. It includes specialists who provide education, play and emotional support for patients and their families. The KHMH is the final referral hospital in the country and an institution that warrants a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.

Anyone who wishes to attend an Affair of the Heart is asked to make a contribution of $100. Others who would like to contribute to the facility can make out a cheque to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Pediatric Intensive Care Unit or make donations at the Office of the Special Envoy for Women and Children located at the Whitfield Tower on Coney Drive. -1 1 0 59 2/17/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane D. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 5 0 289 robots= author= 2838 Closed Season for Spiny Lobster closed-season-for-spiny-lobster

Belmopan, 15 February, 2011.

The Belize Fisheries Department informs fishers, wholesalers and retailers of seafood products and the general public that the Closed Season for the Caribbean Spiny Lobster, Panulirus argus, begins on Tuesday, February 15, 2011.

This is in accordance with the Regulation 3(1) (b) of the Fisheries Act, Chapter 210 of the Laws of Belize Revised Edition 2003 which states: “No person shall take in the waters of Belize or buy, sell or have in his possession crawfish (Spiny Lobster) between 15 February and 14 June, inclusive in any year.”

The Spiny Lobster Season will reopen on June 15 of this year. The Fisheries Department will be enforcing the Closed Season for Spiny Lobsters in Belize with patrols on the sea (catch and inspection) and land (market and restaurant inspections).

-1 1 0 59 2/17/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 4 0 770 robots= author= 2839 Butane by the pound, not by the gallon butane-by-the-pound-not-by-the-gallon There are very few households in this country that do not depend daily on butane. It is one of those commodities that have a direct and immediate effect on livelihoods. Butane is used by restaurateurs and even in vehicles so it is important for consumers to know exactly what quantity of butane they are getting when they purchase the fuel.

By our determination, butane should be sold by the pound as opposed to by the gallon. Depending on the makeup of the butane, a gallon of butane varies in weight. If butane being dispensed has a higher quantity of propane to butane ratio a gallon is lighter. If the fuel has a greater proportion of butane to propane then it is heavier. It must have been for this reason that butane should be sold by the pound as opposed to by the gallon. The practice of weighing butane has slowly faded away and was replaced by the metering of butane by the gallon which exposes consumers to a greater possibility of being jilted.

With measures being put in place by the Bureau of Standards, gas companies will have to re-introduce the practice of selling butane by the pound as opposed to by the gallon. One small retailer the Guardian spoke with however explained that while the consumers are being protected, for persons like himself who buys fuel from larger companies, it will be difficult to measure butane sold to them by the pound and will instead have to depend on the goodwill of wholesalers to be honest.

He quickly added, however, that it has been common knowledge among the small retailers that importers and wholesalers have not been in the practice of selling the right amount of butane for the price paid. For his part he explained that as he understands it and by his operation five gallons of butane is equivalent to one pound. This, however, is dependent on the ratio of Butane to propane. The Bureau of Standards recommends that 100lbs is 22 gallons of butane. -1 1 0 59 2/17/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 3 0 779 robots= author= 2840 National Agriculture & Trade Show set national-agriculture-a-trade-show-set The National Agriculture and Trade Show Committee has agreed on a date to hold the yearly Trade Show. After convening a meeting on February 14, it was agreed that the show will be held on April 29, 30 and May 1. This year the show will be held under the theme: “Agriculture: Securing the Future for a Better Belize.”

Every year thousands of Belizeans from across the country flood the showground in Belmopan as agricultural producers as well as members of the trading community display their products and wares. -1 1 0 59 2/17/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 712 robots= author= 2841 Belize Trivia Challenge Champ & Tiffany Simpson’s Puzzle of the Week belize-trivia-challenge-champ-a-tiffany-simpsons-puzzle-of-the-week-

Belizean Cultural Foods

Across
2. A beet soup usually served with sour cream
6. A beverage consumed by the Maya of southern and northern Belize, made from ground toasted corn seasoned with pimento and other spices.
7. A hollow wooden dish in which plantain is pounded with a pestle
9. A thin, flat, round cake made of corn meal, baked on a flat surface and served hot.
10. A deep trough to hold peeled and washed cassava before grating.
12. A separate sauce, consisting of coconut milk, garlic, onions, chili peppers, and seasoned cassava juice, served with Garinagu meals.
13. Food made from corn meal and meat, seasoned, wrapped in large leaves and steamed.

Down
1. A plank of wood with embedded stone chips, used for grating cassava.
3. A beverage consumed by the Maya of southern and northern Belize, made from ground toasted corn with pimento and other spices.
4. A small earthen grill, used for cooking tortilla over low fire.
5. Garifuna word for cassava bread.
6. A beverage consumed by Mayas of southern and northern Belize. It is made from corn steeped in lime and water, boiled until it becomes a thick liquid resembling arrowroot
8. Wet meal produced after cassava is grated
11. Long cylindrical basketry into which wet cassava meal is packed for squeezing.
12. A hollow gourd in which tortillas are stored to keep them warm

Resources for puzzle supplied by the National Library Service

This Week’s Champ for Online Belize Trivia Challenge

The first Player to advance to the Belize Trivia Challenge Game show is Ms. Rhondeen Pitts with a top score of 9,225 points. Miss Pitts received $100 cash and has secured herself one of the eighteen available spots in the Belize Trivia Challenge Game Show to be held May 27th 2011.The progressive jackpot is currently at $50.

To receive monthly crossword puzzle book, Belize Trivia Challenge Game, or other games created by Tiffany Simpson, contact at Tiffany Simpson of Belizean Artwork at telephone number 501-607-1088 or email at admin@belizeanartwork.com.

The answers for the puzzle will be available in next week’s issue.

-1 1 0 59 2/17/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 988 robots= author= 2842 GOB Signs MOU for Solar Energy Project with UB gob-signs-mou-for-solar-energy-project-with-ub

On Monday, February 14, the Government of Belize through the Ministry of Finance signed a Memorandum of Understanding for a clean solar energy project with the University of Belize at the university’s Central Campus in Belmopan City. Signatories to the MOU were the Financial Secretary, Mr. Joseph Waight, and Acting President and President Emeritus Dr. Corinth Morter-Lewis. Also present was the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Works, Mr. Cadet Henderson.

The Photovoltaic Project is designed to introduce clean energy to Belize by solar electricity generation using photovoltaic panels which are referred to as the PV system. “UB is poised to become a leader in clean solar energy in the region,” remarked Dr. Morter-Lewis. “UB students in particular from the engineering faculty will benefit from being exposed to this cutting-edge technology.”

The construction of the photovoltaic panels will commence in August of this year and will be built on 2.04 acres of land at UB’s Central Campus. The power generated by the PV system will be sold to Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) and the gross proceeds from such sales will be transferred by way of a grant to UB. Also, GOB will transfer the ownership and management of the PV system after a period of ten years to UB free of cost.

All related costs to the construction and operations will be realized by GOB and the Government of Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). JICA has provided $20 million towards the project. The equipment procured under the project will be maintained by the Ministry of Works and UB with necessary assistance from BEL and other related organizations. It should take one year to complete.

-1 1 0 40 2/17/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane D. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 7 0 1162 robots= author= 2843 Noisemakers Late to Work!! noisemakers-late-to-work Politics as usual- watching the People’s United Party calling out the government on the issuance of oil concessions is convicting proof that there is no limit to hypocrisy. Their petty attempts to gain political mileage have gone unrewarded as will their “new position” on oil exploration. How can the PUP be taken seriously about their stance against the issuance of oil concessions?

In last week’s issue of the Guardian we asked where the coalition was when the PUP administration was issuing oil concessions. It is unbelievable how they have managed to paint this administration as the oil party while allowing the PUP to wash their hands and throw rocks considering the fact that this administration only issued three oil concessions and the PUP administration issued at least 16 concessions on and offshore.

Maybe stating the numbers is not enough to drive the point home. Perhaps the two diagrams above will prove two things. One, the PUP’s stance against the issuance of oil concessions is a big fat joke. Two, either the coalition is being disingenuous in its fight or they are extremely late to act.

The first map shows the oil concessions issued under the previous administration. It covers highlands, lowlands and the coast – onshore and offshore – our land and protected land. The map includes the seven concessions that Florencio Marin issued in a private meeting on October 12, 2007 and the 35 year concession covering the Sapodilla Cayes that was issued to Island Oil Limited by the Leader of the PUP, Johnny Briceno. The concession issued to Island Oil was an act labeled treasonous by one member of the coalition.

However, no coalition was formed; no protest was launched by COLA- not even a letter written by Brackett. The second map shows the oil concessions issued under the current administration. Three concessions in three years and the offshore concession on the image no longer exist. Yet this UDP administration has been dubbed the party of oil. -1 1 0 40 2/17/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane D. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 6 0 874 robots= author= 2844 Cabinet Meeting cabinet-meeting Belmopan, 15 February, 2011.

Cabinet met in regular session on Tuesday, 15 February, 2011. Cabinet approved the signing of a protocol on political consultations between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of Belize and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.  The Russian Federation has over the last few years re-launched active diplomatic engagement with countries in Central and South America.

Cabinet was briefed on Belize’s assumption of the Presidency Pro-Tempore of the Tuxtla Mechanism for Dialogue and Coordination for the period 1 January – 30 June, 2011.  The Tuxtla Mechanism for Dialogue and Coordination is an initiative started by the Governments of Mexico and the countries of Central America that dates back to 2001.  It serves as a forum for high level political dialogue and has three components: political, cooperation and the Mesoamerican Project (formerly the Plan Puebla Panama).

Cabinet was briefed on an upcoming Taiwanese Investment Evaluation Mission to Belize to review plans and proposals to upgrade the Belize City Government House/House of Culture and surrounding grounds, and to convert the facility into a major city-based cultural tourism attraction.

Cabinet was briefed on efforts to strengthen the Belize Bureau of Standards to enable it to better respond to issues of quality control and regulation of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) to protect the interests and rights of consumers.

The next meeting of the Cabinet is scheduled for Tuesday, 22 February, 2011, and will focus on the preparation of the budget for the new fiscal year. -1 1 0 40 2/17/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 5 0 2039 robots= author= 2845 Coalition’s Petition Circling – To sign or not to sign? coalitions-petition-circling-to-sign-or-not-to-sign One member of the coalition responded to last week’s question, “Where was the coalition?” She said, “How were we supposed to know about all those concessions under the previous government?” Perhaps on this issue, virtue is its own enemy. It may be this administration’s practice of transparency that has given life to the coalition. Information is now accessible to stakeholders on every topic. No more deals are done in secret and the government states its positions clearly. The concession to OPIC was a perfect example. The agreement was public and so were the terms of the contract. For democracy to prevail, knowledge and the availability of information is key.

The coalition’s opposition to government on the issue of oil exploration is an exercise of our democratic system- their right to seek a referendum is an exercise of our democratic system. The Prime Minister decided to give Oceana Belize and the coalition time to raise support for a referendum on offshore oil exploration. During that time, which is a three month period, government will not proceed with any issuance of offshore oil concessions. The referendum act requires the petition on an issue to consist of at least 18,000 signatures before it could be put to a vote. Therefore, a petition is currently in circulation.

Opponents of the ban are conflicted on whether to sign the petition or not. While the immediate decision would be not to sign, some argue that it would be best to sign the petition and get it over with. The petition has been in circulation for months and has yet to reach the necessary amount of signatures. Signing the petition does not equal a vote to ban offshore oil exploration. It is simply an endorsement to take the issue to a referendum. Understanding that, some opponents argue that not signing the petition only delays the exploration process.

The common concern of Belizeans goes beyond signing or not signing the petition. The main concern is the cost of a referendum. A referendum will be paid for by taxpayers’ money. A national referendum will cost somewhere between two and three hundred thousand dollars. Public campaign by both sides will be an additional expense. Those are funds that could be directed at social programs. Members of the public say that the coalition should pay for the referendum. On Thursday, February 10, that idea was addressed to the Minister responsible for Elections and Boundaries Department, Hon. John Saldivar, when he appeared on Wave Radio’s “Fus Ting Da Mawnin”. He said that the government would be responsible to take up the bill for a referendum- “Democracy is expensive”. -1 1 0 40 2/17/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane D. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 4 0 784 robots= author= 2846 New Compactor Trucks for P.G., Dangriga and Orange Walk new-compactor-trucks-for-pg-dangriga-and-orange-walk Through the efforts of the Association for Community Enhancement (ACE) operating out of Chicago, the municipalities of Punta Gorda, Orange Walk and Dangriga will have a new garbage compactor truck added to their waste disposal system. Representative of ACE, Noreen Cadle explains that the donation of the three trucks along with 200 garbage bins came as an initiative of the organization who sought to help the Belizean community. As such they approached the Mayor of Chicago who donated the three trucks and 500 garbage bins, 200 of which were shipped to Belize for use in Orange Walk and Dangriga.

Orange Walk Town Mayor Phillip De La Fuente and Dangriga Mayor Aaron Gongora explained that the donation is a welcomed one for their municipalities. They expressed gratitude for the donation since it will greatly enhance the garbage collection within those municipalities. Gongora says that the addition of the compactor truck will allow the town to expand their garbage collection coverage in the town and surrounding villages. For his part, De La Fuente explained that the new compactor truck will compliment another which is currently being used in Orange Walk. He says that currently three other open back trucks are doing the collection in the town. With the addition of the new compactor truck those three trucks will no longer be needed which will allow for cutting down of expenses to the Town Board.

According to Cadle, each truck is valued in the region of 20 thousand dollars and shipping expenses were defrayed by a grant by the Government of Belize and Belize Natural Energy Trust fund which contributed ten thousand dollars for the project. Cadle says that ACE is looking at the possibility of securing fire engines and ambulances which could be made available from the city of Chicago. -1 1 0 40 2/17/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 3 0 888 robots= author= 2847 Rarest of Occasions rarest-of-occasions After Prime Minister Barrow’s quarterly press conference on February 9, several differing opinions flooded the airwaves and newsprint by protagonists at the self proclaimed “neutral” media outlets, both in the city and here in OW. Please don’t get me wrong; I would never suggest that the Opposition People’s United Party not share its after-views with the people and not sound belligerent in doing so. Frankly, it’s the way of politics all over and people expect it to be so.
   
But there are also other subtle expectations from viewers and readers, that there be some decency and respectability in the Opposition’s response; especially an Opposition who still shoulders the reputation of committing so many despicable dealings in government from 1998-2008. Listening to the PUP Party Leader’s speech the day after, I was reminded of an old quote by Pierce Adams where he joked that “nothing is more responsible for the good old days than a bad memory”.  In this case, a more apt account of the Leader’s soliloquy would be to insert “selective amnesia” for a bad memory.
 
Another phrase that I was suddenly reminded of in the PUP Leader’s narrative, this one uttered in the recent past by Mr. Musa, was triggered by the subject of oil exploration in Belize. There are two issues here that the environmentalists presently have on the front burners: offshore drilling and drilling in on-shore national parks. Now the group that is fronting the protest against on-shore exploration is the same group that is fighting for communal rights to land ownership.
  
Let me quickly get to the phrase that I remembered being expressed by the former Prime Minister, which was, “I will not accept the Balkanization of our country”. That was one of the rarest of occasions that I found myself agreeing with Mr. Musa, in ten solid years. He made this declaration to the same group who are still today wrestling to own a chunk of Belize, and being able to manage their area of “possession” without regard to any government, almost resembling a separate country.
   
To give a short meaning of Musa’s phrase, let us look at the definition in Wikipedia, “Balkanization is a pejorative geopolitical term originally used to describe the process of fragmentation or division of a region or state into smaller regions or states that are often hostile or non-cooperative with each other”. Certainly we have no desire to carve out Belize into smaller ethnic states; Creole, Mestizo, Mayas, and Garinagu, etc, who will govern by their own right. It may sound ridiculous, but that’s the bottom line of some of those posing as environmentalists.
  
We should be careful not to be unduly influenced by hidden agendas which are being promoted by self-serving individuals or groups. The cohesiveness and unity of our country must not be negotiable and cannot be compromised before any private representation. There must also be a balanced policy on development, where all Belizeans can benefit from our natural resources. We have come very far co-existing in harmony as many cultures, one nation, to now talk about being different and having separate rights. All of us who were born here are from here making us all indigenous to Belize. Think about it. -1 1 0 40 2/17/2011 06:00:00 64 Jamil Matar 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 760 robots= author= 2848 The Work to Keep Kids in School the-work-to-keep-kids-in-school Just like police officers, children were taught to fear school officers. It was a tactic used by parents and educators to discourage children from playing hooky. Teachers told tales of school officers taking children away from their homes because of playing hooky. It was definitely effective. I can remember not wanting to miss classes even on holidays. The school officers make up one of two units in the Ministry of Education’s School Community Liaison/Security Programme and their reputation is far from reality.

Dale Anthony has been the manager of the Community Liaison/Security programme or Truancy Unit since May 2008. Anthony explained that the unit consists of school officers and school wardens. The programme started in 1998 and the main objective was to address the high rate of absence by school children between the ages of 5 and 14 years. In June of 1999 the security programme came on stream with the introduction of school wardens at primary schools across the city and district towns. This was a response to numerous abductions and murders of school children between the ages of 9 and 16 that took place between 1997 and 1998.

Though their primary responsibility is still to provide immediate security to students and prevent hooky, their method of execution and involvement with the community has evolved since 1998. The unit’s roles and goals are to ensure that all school-aged children attend school; to ensure that measures are taken to guarantee that children stay in school; to ensure that the school environment is a safe place for children; to provide support services to children, parents, teachers, school or relevant institutions which contribute to children’s regular attendance at school; provide an effective prevention program for school dropouts; to provide an effective system for managing and delivering the liaison programme; to access appropriate support from government, non-governmental organization and the community and to provide an opportunity for liaison officers and wardens to develop professionally in executing duties.

There are almost 70,000 children in primary schools across the country and 18,000 in secondary school. Therefore, the work of the unit is extremely demanding and resources are scarce. At the beginning of 2008 there were 73 school wardens countrywide and 59 in Belize City. The large number in the city is based on risk factor. Currently there are 131 school wardens countrywide: 102 in Belize City, 11 in Cayo, four in Orange Walk, eight in Belmopan and six in Stann Creek. There are no wardens in Corozal and the Toledo districts. There are 17 school officers: six in Belize District, three in Stann Creek, two in Toledo, two in Orange Walk, one in Corozal, one in Cayo and one in San Pedro. The workload is extreme and when Dale Anthony became Manager of the Unit there was no vehicle for the department. Minister of Education, Hon. Patrick Faber, secured a truck for the unit along with ten motorcycles to be distributed countrywide. The unit also has a hotline number now for reports. The number is 0-800-338-2283 or 0-800-EDUCATE.

Anthony is extremely proud of his department. He shares high praises for the wardens. He said, “They are so diligent at their job and most of them go beyond the call of duty.” Some of them help the school’s feeding program. Some get involved with actual class activities; for example, Physical Education. Some of the wardens develop bonds with students as they serve as mentors/ councilors. They are deserving of Anthony’s praises. And though the wardens are the most visible, it’s the school officers that may have the jobs least demanded. The officers visit schools and check administrators for attendance reports. All children between the ages of 5 and 14 should be in school. A student with three straight absences without a valid reason is considered truant. School officers visit the homes of such students to investigate the problem. Visitations may be the most difficult part of their job. Officers visit to find out what is the problem in an attempt to offer assistance. However, they are often met with hostility. Anthony said, “Literally we have been mocked, cursed, chased and stoned.” He said, “They really need to understand that we are not there to take away their children.”

Despite the difficulties in providing service, the unit has been extremely effective. Last year the unit provided school supplies for 138 families. Through its grant programme the unit gave over $9,000 in assistance to needy families for assistance with fees, feeding program, etc. They recommended 72 families to other social partners for assistance.

Anthony expects truancy in Belize to be almost non-existent in a couple of years because of two reasons. First, the conditional cash transfer program should start shortly. Families will be given financial assistance in exchange for social development acts like attending school. Secondly, the unit is in the process of issuing summons for court action against parents who refuse to send their child/children to school regularly.

Anthony wished to publicly thank the Government of Belize for providing additional human resources and equipment to the School Community Liaison/Security Programme. Additional resources are always needed but he rests in the fact that the Minister has reached out at every request. He said we need to keep our children in school because “Without an educated and healthy society we will be doomed.” -1 1 0 40 2/17/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 741 robots= author= 2849 Vincent Allen Tillett Sr. charged with murder vincent-allen-tillett-sr-charged-with-murder On Tuesday, February 15, 46-year-old taxi driver Vincent Allan Tillett Sr. appeared in Magistrate’s Court where he was read a single charge of murder. Tillett appeared before the Chief Magistrate, Margaret Gabb-McKenzie where no plea was taken.  He was informed that at a given date there will be a Preliminary Inquiry into the matter and if there is sufficient evidence, the matter will be committed to the Supreme Court where a plea will be taken. Vincent Tillett was remanded into custody at the Belize Central Prison and is due back in court on March 23.

Tillett handed himself over to police following the stabbing death of 22-year-old Darwin Phillips which occurred on Sunday, February 13. At about 7:15p.m. on that day police visited the KHMH where they saw the body of 22-year-old Darwin Phillips, a resident of #7033 Pelican Street Extension with what appeared to be a single stab wound to the left side of the chest.

Investigations revealed that Phillips was socializing at the home of his girlfriend Denise Stuart when at about 7:00 p.m. Vincent Tillett Sr., the ex-common-law husband of Stuart arrived at the home to drop off two of his children and without saying a word he walked into the kitchen area and then walked back into the living room area where Phillips was seated in a sofa chair and inflicted the fatal stab.

Phillips was stabbed once to the left side of the chest. He ran out of the house where he stumbled to the ground and was later taken to the KHMH where he was treated but was pronounced dead at 7:30 p.m. by Dr. Gonzalez. On Monday, February 14, Tillett Sr., who has sought legal advice from Attorney Dickie Bradley, turned himself in to police custody where he was charged for Phillips’ murder. -1 1 0 39 2/17/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 3 0 671 robots= author= 2850 BDF Sergeant fined in death of Police Corporal bdf-sergeant-fined-in-death-of-police-corporal

On Thursday, February 3, 36-year-old BDF Sgt. Enrique Montejo was convicted of four traffic offences including manslaughter by negligence, negligent grievous harm and negligent harm. The charges are as a result of a traffic fatality on April 5, 2006 which claimed the life of 38-year-old Corporal of Police, Raul Magana. The conviction came in the Corozal Supreme Court before newly appointed Judge, Denis S. Hanomansingh.

    
Allegations are that on April 5, 2006, at about 10:00p.m. between miles 82 and 83 in the Village of Ranchito located in the Corozal District Sgt. Montejo was driving his purple Geo Metro vehicle heading to Corozal from the direction of Carolina Village when it collided into Cpl. Raul Magana’s green Mirage Mitsubishi vehicle. At the time he was in the company of six other persons; namely, Marleni, Seleni, Christian and Julian Magana, and Elena and Mayra Pena. 
 
Cpl. Magana died after suffering a fracture to the chest and lower limb.  Sustaining bodily injuries was Marleni Magana, Elena and Mayra Pena.

On Tuesday, February 15, Sgt. Montejo was fined ten thousand dollars in the death of Magana. He was additionally fined two thousand dollars for negligent grievous harm and was ordered to pay compensation of three thousand dollars to the two persons who sustained injuries during the collision. He is to make payment by November 15.

-1 1 0 39 2/17/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 606 robots= author= 2851 Bert Vasquez in court again bert-vasquez-in-court-again On Monday, February 14, businessman Bert Vasquez, who also goes by the name Herbert Vasquez Haylock was charged with three criminal offenses including aggravated assault of an indecent nature, aggravated assault with a pocket knife and unlawful imprisonment.

The incidents allegedly occurred on January 25, 2011 after a 20-year-old resident of Northern Belize accused him of giving her a ride and then holding her against her will inside his car and then sexually assaulting her in an indecent manner.
 
In a report to police, the 20-year-old Accounts Clerk told police that at about 6:00p.m. on January 25 she was walking home on Freetown Road when she met Bert Vasquez who offered her a ride home. She accepted the ride and that’s when he drove to Belama under the pretense that he had to pick up a cousin but instead he drove up to Belama Phase IV and there she claims he told her he wanted her and that either she cooperated with him or he would take her by force.

The woman claims that he then pulled out a pocket knife and held it to the side of her head and took off her jacket and brassiere and began to kiss her and also tried to remove her pants. She claims she tried to push him off but he did not stop until oncoming vehicles started to frequent the area. He then drove her up the highway at Mile 12, where he made attempts to assault her again but that’s when someone from a nearby house began to flash a light into the vehicle and he decided to take her home.

On Monday Vasquez appeared before Magistrate Kayla Teck in Court #3 where the three charges were read to him. Vasquez was unrepresented but claimed that his attorney in the matter was Ellis Arnold who was attending to another matter in the Supreme Court and could not make representation. He pleaded not guilty to the three charges.

The court prosecutor objected to bail on the grounds that the virtual complainant had expressed to the police that she is fearful for her life because of the manner in which Vasquez treated her on that day after he had held her against her will.  The court record also showed that as recently as December 5, 2010, Vasquez’s two years of being bound over to keep the peace had expired. The prosecutor asked the court to also take into consideration that he has another offense which he was in the court for. When asked in court what his relationship was to the victim, Vasquez said he only knew the woman as an acquaintance, someone he saw walking around the street. 

After listening to the court prosecutor’s objections to bail, Magistrate Teck upheld it and denied Vasquez bail and remanded him into custody until March 16.

In December 2008, Bert Vasquez, who was charged with aggravated assault upon Cecil Gill, was bound over to keep the peace even though he was found not guilty of the charge. Bert Vasquez also had several charges of obtaining property by deception before the court between 2008 and 2010. -1 1 0 39 2/17/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 821 robots= author= 2852 Belize Defence Force 3 peat as national football champions belize-defence-force-3-peat-as-national-football-champions

The Belize Premier Football League Caribbean Motors Cup Tournament came to an end on Sunday, February 13, at the Norman Broaster Stadium in San Ignacio Town where the second and final game in the championship series was played between the defending champions and the competition’s favourite, the Belize Defence Force, and the up-start Toledo Ambassadors.

The first half of the game ended in a 0-0 draw, and it was not until the opening minutes of the second half of the game that the home team the Belize Defence Force was able to get on the scoreboard first when Richard Jimenez scored the first goal of the game in the 48th minute of play to give his team a 1-0 lead.

The second and final goal of the game and by extension the season came when the Belize Defence Force’s Daniel Jimenez scored in the 87th minute of play to put the proverbial icing on the cake for the winners.

At the end it was indeed a 2-0 victory for the Belize Defence Force and its third consecutive championship in as many outings. The organizers, the Belize Premier Football League, at the end of the championship named Richard Jimenez of the Belize Defence Force the Most Valuable Player in the playoff.

We say congratulations to the Belize Defence force for winning the BPFL Caribbean Motors Cup Championship.

-1 1 0 41 2/17/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 7 0 764 robots= author= 2853 Bishop Martin boys to defend national primary school basketball title bishop-martin-boys-to-defend-national-primary-school-basketball-title The 2010-2011 National Primary Schools Basketball Championship will take centre stage this Friday, February 18, 2011, at the Belize City Centre commencing at 8:30am.

The championship will feature the champions in both the female and male competition from all six districts. The official opening ceremony is scheduled for 8:30am.

The schools that have earned the right to represent their respective districts in the female competition are: Stann Creek- Sacred Heart (Dangriga Town), Belize – Holy Redeemer, Cayo – Bishop Martin (San Ignacio), Toledo – St. Peter Claver, Orange Walk – Louisiana Government and from Corozal- Corozal Methodist School.

Meanwhile, the schools in the male competition are: Stann Creek – Holy Family RC (Hopkins Village), Cayo – Bishop Martin (defending champion), Belize – St. Ignatius, Toledo – St. Peter Claver, Orange Walk – Louisiana Government, and from Corozal- St. Francis Xavier RC School. -1 1 0 41 2/17/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 6 0 739 robots= author= 2854 Gwen Lizarraga High School girls and Corozal Community College boys are national high schools football champions gwen-lizarraga-high-school-girls-and-corozal-community-college-boys-are-national-high-schools-football-champions The National Secondary Schools Sports Association National Football Championship was played on Friday and Saturday, February 11 and 12, respectively at the Marshalleck Stadium in Benque Viejo.

On Saturday, February 12, in the female championship game, Gwen Lizarraga High School defeated Sacred Heart College by the score of 2 to 1 in penalties. At the end of regulation time, the game ended 0-0. The goal scorers for Gwen Lizarraga High School were Deandra Coote and Kenya Brown, while the goal scorer for Sacred Heart College was Jasmine Armstrong.

In the male championship game, Corozal Community College defeated Our Lady of Guadalupe High School by the score of 4 to 2 penalties. Like the female championship game, this one also ended in a 0-0 draw at the end of regulation time. The goal scorers for the Corozal Community College were Francisco Castellanos, Dennis Charley, Jordan August and Wilfredo Lopez. Meanwhile, the goal scorers for Our Lady of Guadalupe High School were Shane Casey and Denmark Casey.

At the end of the championship, Jhonique Anderson of Sacred Heart College was named the Most Valuable Player in the female competition, and Dennis Charley of Corozal Community College was named the Most Valuable Player in the male championship.

In the female consolation game, Stann Creek Ecumenical College defeated San Pedro High School by the score of 3 to 2 in penalties. Meanwhile, in the male consolation game, Julian Cho Technical High School defeated St. John’s College by the score of 4 to 0. The goal scorers for Julian Cho Technical High School were Blue Ical (2), Michael Saki and Synesio Coh Jr.

On Friday, February 11, 2011, in the first female game played, Gwen Lizarraga High School (Central Region) defeated San Pedro High School (Northern Region) by the score of 1 to 0. Deandra Coote scored the only goal of the game in the 13th minute of play to give Gwen Lizarraga High the victory.

In the second game, Sacred Heart College (Western Region) defeated Stann Creek Ecumenical College (Southern Region) by the score of 3 to 2 in penalty. At the end of regulation time the game ended in a 1-1 draw. In regulation time, the goal scorer for Sacred Heart College was Jasmine Armstrong in the 12th minute of game, while the goal scorer for Stann Creek Ecumenical College was Shane Nasario in the 32nd minute of play.

In the penalty shootout, the goal scorers for Sacred Heart College were Renesha McNab and Emmerlyn Nuñez, while the goal scorer for Stann Creek Ecumencial College was Michelle Garcia.

In the first male game played, Corozal Community College (Northern Region) defeated St. John’s College (Central Region) by the score of 1 to 0. Sergio Pott scored the only goal of the game in the 58th minute of play.

In the second game, Our Lady of Guadalupe High School (Western Region) defeated Julian Cho Technical High School by the score of 2 to 1. The goal scorers for Our Lady of Guadalupe were Denmark Casey in the 40th minute of play and Howard West in the 57th minute of play, while the goal scorer for Julian Cho Technical was Michael Roches in the 10th minute of play. -1 1 0 41 2/17/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 5 0 640 robots= author= 2855 Lisandro Ajuc sets new record for Valentine’s Day Classic lisandro-ajuc-sets-new-record-for-valentines-day-classic The 16th Edition of the Belize Cycling Association and the Belize Telemedia Digicell Valentine’s Day Classic is now history. The race in the Elite/Open category attracted some 77 riders of which 49 of them concluded the 86.3 miles journey in which a new record for the Valentine’s Day Classic was established by a foreigner.

The race lasted some 3:28:36, which is the new record, where the first rider to cross the finish line was Guatemalan Lisandro Ajuc who rides for Santino’s Belize. Ajuc’s teammate Darnell Barrow was the second rider to cross the finish line in a time of 3:29:33. Barrow was followed by Jose Choto of Western Spirit, who finished third, and he was followed by Marlon Castillo of Zamir Cycling Team, and then by Allen Castillo also of Zamir Cycling Team to round off the top five finishers.

The other top finishers in this category include Gregory Lovell of Zamir Cycling Team, Giovanni Leslie of Santino’s Belize, David Henderson of Team INDECO Elites, and Erwin Middleton also of Team INDECO Elites, followed by Luis Santizo of Zamir Cycling Team in that order respectively.

In the junior category, the first rider to cross the finish line was Kyle Gentle of Cayo High Road Cycling who finished the 67.4 miles journey in a time of 2:45:30. Austin Armstrong of Twin Towns Cycling finished second, followed by Aiden Juan of Cayo High Road Cycling who finished third, Marcus Lewis of C-Ray Junior finished fourth with Deezan Spence of Twin Towns finishing fifth in a time of 2:46:54 in this category.

In the youth category, Aiden Juan finished first in a time of 2:45:30, followed by Marcus Luis of C-Ray Junior Cycling, and then followed by Giovanni Lovell of Team INDECO Junior, Jafari Castro of Clear the Land and then by Brandon Morgan of Cayo Uprising Cycling Team.

In the Masters categories 4 and 5 event, Ernest Meighan, the current record holder, was the first rider to cross the finish line in a time of 2:49:00 to repeat as champion. Michael Lewis who is unattached finished second; third place went to David Jesus Balam, a Mexican of Team Depredadores, and Barney Brown of F.T. Williams cycling finished fourth with Ray Cattouse of C-Ray Cycling finishing fifth.

In the female category, Shalini Zabaneh of Sagitun finished first in a time of 2:54:11, Gina Lovell unattached finished second in a time of 2:59:30, third place went to Alicia Thompson of Belize Bank, fourth place went to Kirah Eiley of Smooth Sailing Cycling and fifth place went to Patricia Chavarria who is unattached. -1 1 0 41 2/17/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 4 0 198 robots= author= 2856 Softball Federation to hold junior girls tryout this Sunday softball-federation-to-hold-junior-girls-tryout-this-sunday The Belize Softball Federation is sponsoring a Quadrangular Tournament this Sunday, February 20, 2011, at Rogers Stadium commencing at 9:00 am.
The junior girls Quadrangular Tournament will feature teams from Stann Creek, Cayo, Belize Rural and Belize City in a Double Elimination format.

This exercise which is also scheduled for next Sunday in Roaring Creek Village will give the selection committee a chance of seeing the best juniors girls in Belize from which twenty five players will be selected to try out for the National Junior Team of Belize.

The junior team will represent Belize at the VI Central American Junior Championship scheduled for Guatemala City, Guatemala, in April of 2011. -1 1 0 41 2/17/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 3 0 163 robots= author= 2857 St. John’s College clips the high flying Wesley boys st-johns-college-clips-the-high-flying-wesley-boys The Central Region Secondary Schools Softball Competition continued on Tuesday, February 15, at Rogers Stadium in Belize City. In the male game played, St. John’s College pulled off the biggest upset of the competition so far when it stopped the previously undefeated Wesley College by the score of 9 to 7. The winning pitcher was Myric Marin and the losing pitcher was Calbert Jefferies.

In the female game, St. Catherine Academy defeated Excelsior High School by the score of 23 to 4. The winning pitcher was Erin Brackett and the losing pitcher was Lauren Stevens. On Monday, February 14, in the female game, Pallotti High School defeated Anglican Cathedral College by the score of 15 to 5. The winning pitcher was Jennelle Flowers and the losing pitcher was Leanne Davis.

In the male game, Gwen Lizarraga High School defeated St. John’s College by the score of 17 to 12. The winning pitcher was Shaquille Moody and the losing pitcher was Myric Marin. On Thursday, February 10, in the female game, Nazarene High School won over Pallotti High School via the default route.
In the male game, Anglican Cathedral College won over Excelsior High School via the forfeiture route. On Wednesday, February 9, 2011, in the female game, Ladyville Technical defeated St. Catherine Academy by the score of 24 to 2. The winning pitcher was Samantha Reyes and the losing pitcher was Shirin Martinez.

In the male game, Wesley College defeated Gwen LIzarraga High School by the score of 24 to 2. The winning pitcher was Jermaine Madrill and the losing pitcher was Shaquille Moody. -1 1 0 41 2/17/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 171 robots= author= 2858 Telemedia’s U-15 and U-17 basketball competition rolls on at the Belize City Centre telemedias-u-15-and-u-17-basketball-competition-rolls-on-at-the-belize-city-centre

The Belize District Basketball Association Telemedia U-15 and U-17 competition continued at the Belize City Centre. On Monday February 14, in the U-15 game played, Dog Pound Boys defeated the YMCA by the score of 33 to 30. The top scorers for the Dog Pound Team were Damiam Leslie with 11 points and 4 rebounds, and Karl Smith with 9 points and 6 rebounds. Meanwhile, the top scorer for the YMCA was Damion Davis with 12 points and 15 rebounds.

In the U-17 game, it was Complex Admiral winning over Civic Ballers by the score of 84 to 36. The top scorers for the Complex Admiral team were Kadeem Olivera with 21 points and 6 rebounds, Ryan Michael with 14 points and 10 rebounds and Akeem Watters with 12 points and 13 rebounds. For the Civic Ballers team the top scorers were John Young with 14 points and 5 rebounds and Sean Moguel with 6 points.

On Sunday, February 13, there were five games on the schedule. In the first of three U-15 games played, Rising Stars defeated Belama Hittaz by the score of 41 to 34. The top scorers for Rising Stars were Roderick Williams with 17 points and 17 rebounds and Shaquille Crawford with 7 points and 5 rebounds. Both of these players are from Wesley Upper School and played in the recently concluded Belize City Primary Schools Basketball Competition.
Meanwhile, the top scorer for the Belama Hittaz was Ricardo Pavon with 8 points.

In the second game, SJC Wildcats defeated Truckers by the score of 51 to 43. The top scorers for the SJC Wildcats were Malik Francisco with 17 points and 9 rebounds and K’lon Augustus with 10 points and 4 rebounds. Meanwhile, the top scorers for Truckers were Raheem Flowers with 24 points and 3 rebounds and Jason Arnold with 8 points.

In game three, Yahbrah edged Boom Celtics by the score of 33 to 30. The top scorers for Yahbrah were Ashton Pitts with 10 points and 11 rebounds, and Clency Lopez with 8 points and 5 rebounds. For the Boom Celtics, the top scorers were Isanny Pook with 10 points and 13 rebounds, and Harvey Hudson with 8 points.

In the first of two U-17 games played, ACC Deacons defeated Seh Sorry by the score of 76 to 53. The top scorers for the ACC Deacons were Terrique Gabb and Travis Bermudez with 18 points each, and 6 and 22 rebounds respectively. Meanwhile, the top scorer for Seh Sorry was Calvin Andrews with 15 points.

In the final game of the day, Belama Ballaz defeated All Star Baller by the score of 92 to 89. The top scorers for Belama Ballaz were Alejandro Baptist with 46 points and 20 rebounds, and Elwin Pollard with 20 points and 14 rebounds, while the top scorers for All Star Baller were Ian Adolphus with 25 points, Brandon Harris with 20 points and Albert Longsworth with 16 points.

-1 1 0 41 2/17/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 232 robots= author= 2859 Never Any Excuse never-any-excuse Early this week a young man was stabbed to death, presumably by a jealous contender for the affections of a young woman.  Family members of the accused, Vincent Tillett, say that this situation has been building up for some time and give the impression that Tillett and Denise Stuart were in an ongoing relationship but that she and the deceased, Darwin Phillips with whom she has an 8 month old baby, were also involved in a relationship.  Ms. Stuart contends that she and Tillett were no longer together and that he came to drop off two of the children that they have together while Darwin Phillips was visiting his baby. 
 
Regardless of the current status of the relationships within this triangle one point must be made clear. There can never be any excuse for taking a life and thus destroying the lives of so many people including that of the accused.  Darwin Phillips is dead and his family will grieve for him.  His baby is left without a father with all the implications that has for the child’s future.  Mr. Tillett has destroyed his own future and also severely damaged the future of the four young children he will be unable to help raise since he probably will not be in a position to support them financially or emotionally.  Ms. Stuart now has five essentially fatherless children to raise alone.
 
No doubt Mr. Tillett‘s anger has been building up for some time. He probably did not discuss how deeply he felt betrayed although the comments of family members indicate that they were aware of the situation.  Apparently several people saw this as a train wreck about to happen but no one had any idea of how to prevent the tragedy.  In fact, there were several paths that could have been taken that might have resulted in a different outcome.
 
The first thing most women need to do when they end a relationship, especially one with control and/or jealousy issues is to set boundaries since experience teaches us that women are in the greatest danger when they walk away from a relationship.  The ex-partner must understand the limits of his rights in terms of contacts with the woman.  The Women’s Department can guide women to trained counsellors that can advise them throughout this process.  The counsellor’s role is not to take sides but to advise on steps that women can take to increase their safety. 

This might include counselling the man involved especially when children are involved and there are issues of support and access.  In extreme cases it may be necessary to get a restraining order when all else fails.  Women have a responsibility to play straight and not to mislead an ex-lover as to the possibility of getting back together since this only creates confusion.  This is especially the case when fathers try to blackmail the mothers of their children by making physical intimacy a condition of continuing child support.  The Family Court can mandate and collect child support in such cases.

Family and friends of the ex-lover can also perform an important support role by paying attention to the moods and feelings the ex-lover exhibits.  It is especially important to pay attention when a man is in denial and refuses to recognise that the relationship is over.  Ideally, the man should be persuaded to talk to a counsellor but the reality is that this is unlikely to happen.  They can at least be there to try to talk him down when they see the anger building because men generally find it difficult to deal with their feelings.

Many will say that this advice is one-sided and indeed it is because although women may be devastated when a relationship ends they rarely become a danger to others.  They also may need counselling but to deal with depression rather than aggression.
 
Relationships are a minefield of emotion especially when they go wrong.  However, murder or injury can never be excused because it does not solve anything and creates great damage to all involved. -1 10 0 56 2/17/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/17/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 130 robots= author= 2860 6.8M for Belize from CARICOM Development Fund 68m-for-belize-from-caricom-development-fund On Monday, February 21, Belize became the first CARICOM country to receive assistance from the CARICOM Development Fund (CDF). Signing on behalf of Belize was Prime Minister Hon. Dean Barrow and on behalf of the fund was its Chief Executive Officer Lorne McDonnough.

The loan will be for 3.4 million U.S. dollars bearing an interest rate of 3% per annum for 15 years with a grace period of two years. McDonnough explained that “The assistance is comprised of a concessionary loan and separate grant components.  These interventions are aimed at supporting the development of the private sector, raising the capacity of government and the DFC to better manage projects and promoting business application of green technology.”

As part of the grant component various government institutions will be receiving grants. One valued at US$275,000 which is being given from the Belize Statutory Grant allocation will go to the DFC and the Ministry of Economic development. Another $100,000 grant will be made available to DFC to upgrade its management information system for loan appraisal. $100,000 will be provided to support the Ministry of Economic Development’s efforts at implementing an electronic management information system for the public sector investment program. $75,000 will be channeled to BELTRAIDE for the provision of technical assistance to develop and implement a policy for the medium and small enterprises sector.

Hon. Dean Barrow explained that he was pleased that Belize was chosen to be the first CARICOM member country to benefit from the CDF. -1 6 0 54 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 379 robots= author= 2861 Not everybody gets butane by the pound not-everybody-gets-butane-by-the-pound The Bureau of Standards has given importers and retailers of Liquified Petroleum Gas a 30 day deadline by which they should be adhering to regulations which mandates that they use scales in the sale of butane to consumers While the regulation is specific on the retail of butane it does not address the issue of the wholesale of butane to smaller retailers.

In an effort to determine how the issue will be addressed, a group of small dealers visited the various large distributors in an effort to determine how the sale will take place to them. One small supplier we spoke with explained that the large distributors invariably expressed that the sale of butane to them would continue as per usual meaning that butane will be sold to the small suppliers on a per gallon basis.

For the small suppliers it’s an issue of concern since they will be sold butane on a per gallon basis and they’ll in turn have to sell to consumers on a per pound basis. The Bureau of Standards’ formula for converting pounds to gallons is 4.5 pounds to one gallon; however, because of the possibility of meter tampering the small retailers cannot be guaranteed that they’ll be getting the gallons to pounds ratio. The gallon being sold does not necessarily correspond with what is mandated by the Bureau of Standards.

We attempted to get comment from the Bureau of Standards but were unable to reach Director Jose Trejo. -1 6 0 53 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 1859 robots= author= 2862 Lee Mark Continues Historic Journey lee-mark-continues-historic-journey Lee Mark Chang: “I will do everything in my power to move our division forward.”

On Sunday, February 20, Lee Mark Chang became the first Belizean of Chinese descent to hold the post of standard bearer of a political constituency for a major political party in Belize. It was indeed a phenomenon of historic proportion and the Belama Park was home to the endorsement convention of which over 1500 supporters attended.

Lee Mark’s journey started two years ago when a post opened up for a United Democratic Party Caretaker of the Freetown Division. A few individuals were interested in the post. Wilmot Simmons was one who expressed interest. He had already informed the Party leader of his intent to apply for the position when he learnt of Lee Mark’s interest. However, he decided to step aside and said that it was because he “knew that Lee Mark had a much bigger heart and was an extremely hard worker”. Lee Mark took up the post of Caretaker and reached out to Wilmot who became the Chairman of the UDP Freetown Committee. That was the beginning of the political career of Lee Mark Chang.

The post of Caretaker was compatible with the finest characteristics of Lee Mark. It was a humble post. There was no pay, popularity or perk that came with the job. There was not even a promise that he would become Standard Bearer. Yet, Lee Mark took up the job and worked tirelessly for the people of the Freetown Division. He lobbied persistently for services to residents of the division. He secured scholarships from the Ministry of Education and support from the Ministry of Works for infrastructural projects. In the two years that Lee Mark was advocating for Freetown as caretaker more students received scholarships, more streets were paved and greater infrastructural development was experienced than all the years that Francis Fonseca was a Minister of Government and Area Representative. Lee Mark has not simply been a lobbyist; on many occasions he reached into his own pocket to deliver for the residents of Freetown. One of his earliest projects was the construction of a bridge that connected Belama Phase III and IV. The old bridge was extremely dangerous but residents depended heavily on the structure. He reached into his own pocket to purchase supplies for a new bridge and labour was provided by committee members and residents of the area.

At the ceremony on Sunday, members of the Cabinet travelled from across the country to support Lee Mark’s endorsement. Senator Doug Singh, former Standard Bearer for Freetown, was the Master of Ceremony and speeches were delivered by Hon. Michael Finnegan, Hon. Anthony “Boots” Martinez, Hon. Patrick Faber, Party Chairman, and Hon. Dean Barrow, Party Leader. All speakers touched on the significance of his Chinese roots but based their endorsement on his kind heart and work ethic. Hon. Michael Finnegan spoke of his encounters with Lee Mark and the generosity he showed from his early days at Chon Saan Restaurant on Euphrates Avenue.

He spoke on the importance of unity and said that it will be wonderful to have representation from all ethnic groups: “Creole, Garinagu, Mestizo, Mennonites, Mayan, Chinese- all working together”. Hon. Patrick Faber, who grew up on King Street, spoke about his memories of Lee Mark when he was younger. He said that sometimes Lee Mark gave so much he wondered how he made money. Hon. “Shoes” Martinez applauded Lee Mark for his role in the development of the Belama area, in particular Phase III and IV. He worked to bring better drainage to the area, paved and repair streets and brought electricity and water to Phase IV. It was easy to look in Lee Mark’s eyes and see that the most touching endorsement speech was that of the Party Leader and Prime Minister, Hon. Dean Barrow. He said, “For the first time- at last- there is going to be a Belizean of Chinese extraction offering himself up for general election.” He said that for many years Chinese-Belizeans have made significant contributions to the development of Belize.

However, PM explained that while he believes in inclusion he “does not believe in inclusion for inclusion sake…” He continued to say that it is lovely that his candidacy is of historic significance since he is the first Belizean of Chinese descent to represent a major political party for General Election; however, “it is even better that he is a solid human being, a solid individual, who at a very young age has established a track record of sympathy- indeed empathy for the people of the city; for the people of the country and in particularly the poor people of the Freetown Division.” Hon. Dean Barrow then expressed his full endorsement of Lee Mark Chang for the Freetown Division.

There is not much more than can be said about Lee Mark than what the Prime Minister said. He is one of the most genuine leaders to grace the political stage. Unlike many political hopefuls, he did not wait until the last year or two before General Election to run a campaign blitz. He has been serving Belizeans all his life and he decided in 2009 to focus that service towards residents of Freetown. That commitment was made after he met his fiancé Geovanna Leiva, a resident of Belama Phase III from a strong UDP family. It was during visits to his girlfriend’s house that he saw the desperate need of the area and the outright neglect by the Area Representative. That was when he made the decision to take the responsibility upon himself to bring improvement to the area.  That was four years before the next election and it was a commitment that caused him to spend a lot of time away from his business. He always gives his mother, Susan Chang, and fiancé credit for keeping the business in operation while he focuses on improving the lives of Freetown residents. Lee Mark would tell you that the highlight of his political career thus far was when the Prime Minister expressed total confidence in him when he was temporarily appointed as a Senator of the National Assembly and held the post as President in 2010. Lee Mark has risen from the caretaker of a division dominated by PUP in recent years to an unchallenged, endorsed and promising political leader of the future. -1 6 0 53 2/24/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane D. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 2190 robots= author= 2863 Street naming program begins in Collet street-naming-program-begins-in-collet On Wednesday, February 23, the Belize City Council officially launched its street naming program which will see the municipal body placing names on all unnamed streets in Belize City. It’s a program that began in June of last year with the empanelling of a committee to oversee the names that will be given to streets. Among those in the committee are educator Dr. Gilda Lewis and historian Captain Nicholas Sanchez, Emma Boiton, Bernard Adolphus along with a technical team from the Belize City Council. Their task was to come up with a plan on how streets in Belize City would receive their names.

In their first phase the body decided on tackling the Collet Division which in recent years has grown exponentially but which did not have streets named at the same pace in which the division was growing. Having identified the area that was to be addressed first, the team then had to come up with how the streets would be named. In an effort to recognize those persons who have contributed to society, the street naming committee decided to begin with long standing educators who have contributed 35 years and more to the profession.

These educators include Daisy Hornby (deceased) who served the profession for 63 years, Sister Therese Sparks who has served for 55 years; Owen Morrison, 54; Basil Coleman, 52, and others. The list of 34 street names will carry the names of notable educators including George Frazer Sr., Molly Hulett and Floss Cassasola (deceased) among others.

In addressing the gathering, Mayor Zenaida Moya-Flowers pointed out that the exercise of giving street names is one which will serve multiple purposes including ensuring that residents of Belize City are able to receive services like the mail and emergency services. She also explained that the exercise will assist utility companies in doing their work.

The program will see the installation of plates on lampposts which will have the name of the street, the person’s profession and a map of the area in which the street is located. Similar exercises will be held across the entire city to name all streets which currently do not have names. -1 1 0 40 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 4 0 880 robots= author= 2864 PUP Eats PUP pup-eats-pup The People’s United Party has no change to change. The same mafia like tactics they practiced during their administration is the same practices they are exercising in Opposition on their own members. From death threats to pay offs- it is clear that they are that same “criminal organization involved in politics”. This time, however, they have gone into intra-party cannibalism, eating- or should we say- destroying their own!

Leonard Chavarria and Jose Braddick of the beautiful District of Toledo are the most recent to join Oscar Rosado, Jerome Wade, Dan Silva, Hugh O’Brien and other PUP loyalists in the realization that the People’s United Party is not a party of inclusion. Chavarria and Braddick led a crowd all the way from Toledo to Belize City where their demonstration could be most visible to express their dissatisfaction and disappointment in their party of preference.

Chavarria applied to contest the March 6 Toledo East convention. That application would have squared him off against incumbent Standard Bearer, Mike Espat. However, his candidacy was rejected by the PUP’s Order of Distinguished Service because of his criminal background. According to Chavarria, his criminal background sites a common assault charge he received when he was 15-years-old (we have information that suggests otherwise, but we’ll let that be). The decision was made by the ODS after party executives asked Chavarria numerous times to back down and throw his support behind Espat.
According to Chavarria, he was offered financial incentives on numerous occasions but he refused to step aside. Though he did not say to the media who offered the money or how much, sources have told us that the offer grew to as much as $100,000. Chavarria and supporters blame Party Leader Johnny Briceno for their rejection. They say that he is paying back dues to Espat. Dues that stem from Espat’s role in the Patchakan hijack of the party leadership. They said that as long as Briceno is the leader of the PUP they will “roll up [their] PUP flags, [their] PUP banners and [they] will not support the PUP”. Braddick was also disqualified from contesting a convention. He wanted to contest the Toledo West Convention.

The fact that certain disqualifications are based on criminal records is typical PUP bias and outright hypocrisy. However, there are several criminals that have not been disqualified by the ODS. The first that comes to mind is Nelson Tillett the wife beater. Why hasn’t he been disqualified? And just for safety’s sake, the term police/criminal record should not be used as a determining factor in the disqualification of PUP candidates. -1 1 0 40 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 3 0 922 robots= author= 2865 The PUP Struggle Continues the-pup-struggle-continues During the protest march on Monday, February 21, against the executive decision of his own People’s United Party which barred him from challenging Mike Espat for Toledo East, Leonardo Chavarria made casual reference to a “Patchakan conspiracy”. I can recall when a namesake event, the “Patchakan resolution”, was announced on August 25 of last year, where the PUP proclaimed that the majority of constituent chairpersons had, in the dark of the previous night, voted in favor of endorsing Briceño for Party Leader. At the time this had raised several eyebrows regarding the sudden change of direction that the PUP leadership was then embracing, which was in selecting rather than electing its standard bearers. We can now see that this policy, judging from the amount of open bickering that is spewing from their endorsement conventions, is not sitting well with their supporters.

Following the said Patchakan “conspiracy”, as Chavarria now refers to this declaration, we were treated to the reckoning of Mark Espat as he lashed back at the Briceño confederacy as being “pendulum addicts”, whom are complacently satisfied to wait for a swing in public sentiment to whoosh them into office, than work for such victory. I tell you, the drama never stops in the PUP soap, and we are keen to its next episode as it unfolds each week, with ever more interesting tidbits.

But even at the contested PUP conventions we are seeing many of the same tired, old faces re-surfacing; if not the former candidates themselves, we see their children or siblings grappling for office. Belizeans are most wary of a repeat of the PUP representatives who served between 1998 and 2008. Among the many other atrocities, the nature of the super-bond, in its terms and conditions, is truly burdening and I personally will be sympathetic, God willing, to any Administration who is in office in 2019. I don’t know how this country will be able to service payments of $200 million each year from 2019 to 2029, in addition to other financial responsibilities and obligations.

Speaking of obligations, I think all Belizeans are satisfied with the prompt action of the Government to institute an instrument to regulate the measurement and sale of LP gas. Indeed it has been so frustrating to hear of all the irregularities being perpetuated on the Belizean consumer by the gas companies. And to think that only a month ago, these same companies were trying to stage a strike when the government and BNE were in discussions to sell LP gas directly to the public to lower the cost of this essential product. I think one of the aggrieved companies even said that at times they have to “absorb” the rise in acquisition costs to keep prices down! That phrase was a favorite of the previous Prime Minister, and many of us now get queasy whenever a politician or businessman uses it, implying that he or she is being altruistic because he loves us so much! Take care, fellow Orange Walkeños. -1 1 0 40 2/24/2011 06:00:00 64 Jamil Matar 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 761 robots= author= 2866 Cabinet Meeting cabinet-meeting- Belmopan, Tuesday, 22 February, 2011. Cabinet met in regular session on, Tuesday, 22 February, 2011. Government’s backbenchers in the House and Senators attended the meeting which focused on the preparation of the budget for fiscal year 2011-2012.

Prime Minister Hon. Dean Barrow will be out of the country 23 February – 1 March participating in the 22nd Inter-Sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM at Grand Anse, St. George, Grenada. During the Prime Minister’s absence from Belize, Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Gaspar Vega will act as Prime Minister.

The next meeting of Cabinet is scheduled for Tuesday, 8 March, 2011. -1 1 0 40 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 745 robots= author= 2867 Affair of the Heart attracts huge support affair-of-the-heart-attracts-huge-support The Affair of the Heart fundraiser was held as scheduled on Saturday, February 19, at the Radisson Fort George Hotel. The event was a fundraiser led by the Special Envoy for Women and Children, Kim Simplis-Barrow and it was a complete success. 

The Affair of the Heart was supported by Cabinet members, members of the Diplomatic Corp, members of the Bar Association of Belize, Ministry of Health officials, representatives of NGO’s, teachers, nurses, parents and others interested in the improvement of pediatric healthcare in Belize. The wide representation at the event is due to the fact that all proceeds will go towards the establishment of a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. 

It was on one of Mrs. Barrow’s visits to the KHMH that she really saw the need for a pediatric ICU. Chief Executive Officer of the KHMH, Dr. Francis Longsworth, gave an address at the Affair of the Heart. He said that the need for a pediatric ICU cannot be over emphasized. He said that perception is everything when it comes to patient’s confidence in the care they receive; therefore, “we need to have a unit where people perceive that they are getting the type of care required.” As explained in last week’s article, pediatric healthcare is different from adult healthcare. A common phrase among experts is “children are not small adults”. Apart from the differences in physical development there is also the psychological aspect of care. When we are injured or ill we want a comfortable, safe environment to get well in. Comfort differs for children and adults. What is comfortable to an adult may actually be frightening or intimidating to a child. That is the reason why pediatric facilities have child-friendly environments full of color, decorations and toys. Pediatric units also include pediatricians and nurses specialized in pediatrics. It includes specialists who provide education, play and emotional support for patients and their families. The KHMH is the final referral hospital in the country and Dr. Longsworth thanked Mrs. Barrow and partners for working to ensure that the KHMH has the type of pediatric TCU that it deserves. He said, “Everything starts with an idea and this idea is beginning to take shape.”

Guests started to arrive at the event around 7pm. Musical entertainment was provided by the Palotti Quartet. The talented staff of the Radisson began serving the first of three courses shortly after 8pm. The event was advertised as a night of fine dining but it turned out to be much more than that when a surprised guest, the Legendary Ernie Smith, graced the gathering with a performance and the evening of dining was followed by a time of dancing. It was definitely an occasion to celebrate. Tickets were sold for $100 each and approximately 300 people attended the event.

Mrs. Barrow said that there will be additional fundraising events for the project but she is not certain whether or not anymore will be held in Belize.

However, anyone who wishes to contribute to the establishment of the facility can make out a cheque to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (KHMHPICU) or make donations directly to the special Envoy’s office at the Whitfield Tower on Coney Drive in Belize City. Mrs. Barrow wishes to thank Baptist Health, Love FM, Wave Radio, Wine Devine, the Radisson Fort George Hotel and other sponsors for their contributions. She hopes that the unit will be completed by early next year.  -1 1 0 59 2/24/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane D. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 13 0 572 robots= author= 2868 Belcogen gearing up to restart belcogen-gearing-up-to-restart Word out of the Belize Sugar Industry indicates that the factory may be in a position to restart its sugarcane grinding operations by Tuesday or Wednesday March 1 or 2. Readers will recall that Belcogen’s gas turbines had to be removed and replaced two weeks ago.

The startup date coincides with BSI’s projections of a three to four week shutdown of operations as a result of the removal of the turbines. On Monday, February 21, Belcogen received the first turbine after it was sent abroad for servicing. That turbine is now being reinstalled in the electricity generation plant and tests may begin over the weekend to ensure that it is working up to standard.

While the first turbine may be in place by the weekend, the second turbine which also had to be taken down for cleaning and servicing is still out of the country in Guatemala undergoing servicing. Conservative estimates indicate that the second turbine may be back into full service two weeks after the first turbine is installed.

Farmers are expected to be given a 48 hour notice of resumption of the grinding of sugarcane by the weekend of Saturday, February 26.
The decommissioning of the Belcogen gas turbines impacted Belize Sugar Industries Limited because the sugar factory is dependent on power produced by Belcogen for the grinding of sugarcane.    -1 1 0 59 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 12 0 778 robots= author= 2869 Check your tax receipts! check-your-tax-receipts Consumers take it for granted that a cash register receipt is accurate accounting of sale of products; however, one customer approached the Guardian Newspaper with a complaint that warrants addressing. The customer, who wished to remain anonymous, pointed out a couple of irregularities in the way Shell One Stop Belize Service Station is issuing receipts.

The customer pointed out a couple of abnormalities in the receipt. First, the customer says that the way the General Sales Tax is calculated flies in the face of what the law requires it to be. In the first instance the customer says that the GST should not be a hidden tax, meaning that the price that is displayed on the shelf is what should be paid when the customer reaches the counter. That, however, is not the case as is evident on the receipt.  On one instance(see receipt #1) the consumer points out that when the products being purchased are taken to the counter the shelf price is first punched in and after that is done the GST is calculated. The customer maintains that the GST was hidden from him and he was not aware that it was not already included on the price of the product as it appeared on the shelf.

The second issue the consumer took issue with is the fact that there were goods which he purchased which should attract the GST (see receipt #2).

The customer bought two products which he believes should attract GST but is not charged. These are local products which we understand should have GST charged on it. In one instance it’s a seaweed drink and on the second instance it’s a sandwich. While the products would appear that they should not attract GST the reality is that they do. But this service station does not charge it.

While the receipt show discrepancies that appear to be minor these minor discrepancies may amount to major amounts of money which the consumers may end up paying or which the government may lose out on. Either way it’s something that warrants looking into. -1 1 0 59 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 11 0 652 robots= author= 2870 Horse and Carriage Operators Complete History Course horse-and-carriage-operators-complete-history-course On Monday, February 21, twenty Belize City tour operators received a certificate of accomplishment for completing Fred Hunter’s Belize City Historical Tour Course. The course focused on horse and buggy operators and was sponsored by the Belize Tourism Board.

According to Laura Esquivel-Frampton, Director of Quality Assurance at the Belize Tourism Board, the purpose of the course was to increase the operators’ content knowledge and improve information accuracy. She said that operators were not totally receptive of the program at first. They questioned the purpose and were hesitant to participate. However, shortly after meeting Belize historian Fred Hunter their thirst for knowledge of the old capital grew significantly. Hunter’s great sense of humour and personal approach caused a strong bond to develop in the short four day course. That close bond was evident from the first approach as the crew behaved like a tightly knit fraternity.

The completion ceremony was a very joyous occasion for BTB, participants and the lecturer. Participants cheered on their friend as they were called up for their certificates and presented before the media. Some of them joked about having thank you speeches. It was made clear that the participants did not take the course lightly when one of their certificates was not printed. The individual was clearly disappointed and his colleagues sympathetic.

Though his certificate will be presented to him in the future, he wanted to share the experience with his friends and be publicly congratulated.

Fortunately, he was given that opportunity using another participant’s certificate. After the ceremony was over one thing was clear. The course had changed their lives forever. Their appreciation of the historic significance of the city was awakened and their service will be improved.

Members of the media were privileged to be the first beneficiaries of the certified service of the horse and buggy operators. We were taken on a tour across the city that took between forty-five minutes to an hour. My tour guide was Ryan Swazo. Though he sometimes flirted with opinions rather than facts, his volume of knowledge is incredible. He explained the country’s political system in terms of the democratic partisan system. He explained the difference in foreign exchange between Belize and countries in the region. He listed different religious denominations and gave a brief history and statistics on religion in Belize. He spoke of the different social issues facing the country and the development of the education system. He even gave a chronological summary on the top industries in Belize and years they dominated the market. Swazo was extremely impressive and he speaks well of the other operators also.

One day after going on the tour I saw a horse and buggy operator passing by with tourists. I smiled and was pleased because I knew those foreigners were enjoying the wealth of information that the operator had to offer about this city which should be dubbed a World Heritage Site.     -1 1 0 59 2/24/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane D. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 10 0 613 robots= author= 2871 Kenisha Hoare Wins Library Services’ Story Competition kenisha-hoare-wins-library-services-story-competition As part of its 75th anniversary, the Belize National Library Service and Information System (BNLSIS) held a story writing competition. The competition was open to all writers who were to have written stories with the content being appealing to children ages 5 to 8 years old. The stories must have focused on the Belizean way of life and be less than 1500 words. Deadline for story entries was October 31, 2010.

On Thursday, February 17, the top three writers of the competition were unveiled. The third place winner was Valentine Polanco for her piece entitled: “Why the Quetzal Bird does not live in Belize.” She received $500 cash for rights to her piece. Nancy Hines Bailey received $750 cash for the rights to her piece called “Hawkeye: the Sea Turtle Story”. The top prize of $1,000 went to Kenisha Hoare who is an Internet Consultant at Belmopan City Online. Her story is called “Finding Home”.

Finding Home is about that feeling of being misunderstood and unappreciated that causes an individual to seek love elsewhere. The main character in the story eventually realizes that the love they have been seeking was at home with family and friends all along. Hoare said she entered the competition to challenge herself and to promote child literacy in Belize. She has always had a passion for reading and believes that passion developed because her mother read to her every night as a little girl. She said that she was not expecting to win the first prize but is honoured to be recognized for her work. She encourages parents to read to and around their kids. She said, “If they hear you reading and see you reading they will pick up books eventually and read as well.”

Minister of Education, Hon. Patrick Faber, often stresses the importance of reading. He presented the certificates to the winners and said that he was happy to see that the first prize winner was a young person. He said competitions like these are important to the Ministry’s campaign to increase the literacy rate in Belize. The literacy rate has decreased over the last decade and it may decrease the productivity of our human resources. He said that the campaign is stressed at early childhood education but goes all the way to adults. Many adults are illiterate and though they are able to communicate they do not have a satisfactory command of the English language. To address this issue, literacy programs will continue to be launched across the country.

The importance of reading was stressed also by the Australian High Commissioner to CARICOM, His Excellency Philip Kentwell, when he visited the National Library on Thursday, January 20.  Kentwell said we need to get back to the basics and revisit our passion for reading. He continued, “Reading builds self-esteem and self discipline which will motivate the young people of the country to live productive lives.” While at the National Library, he handed over six books to the institution. 

There were a total of 26 entries submitted. The three winning entries will be read publicly in all district towns and city libraries. -1 1 0 59 2/24/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane D. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 9 0 643 robots= author= 2872 Kenisha Hoare Wins Library Services’ Story Competition kenisha-hoare-wins-library-services-story-competition As part of its 75th anniversary, the Belize National Library Service and Information System (BNLSIS) held a story writing competition. The competition was open to all writers who were to have written stories with the content being appealing to children ages 5 to 8 years old. The stories must have focused on the Belizean way of life and be less than 1500 words. Deadline for story entries was October 31, 2010.

On Thursday, February 17, the top three writers of the competition were unveiled. The third place winner was Valentine Polanco for her piece entitled: “Why the Quetzal Bird does not live in Belize.” She received $500 cash for rights to her piece. Nancy Hines Bailey received $750 cash for the rights to her piece called “Hawkeye: the Sea Turtle Story”. The top prize of $1,000 went to Kenisha Hoare who is an Internet Consultant at Belmopan City Online. Her story is called “Finding Home”.

Finding Home is about that feeling of being misunderstood and unappreciated that causes an individual to seek love elsewhere. The main character in the story eventually realizes that the love they have been seeking was at home with family and friends all along. Hoare said she entered the competition to challenge herself and to promote child literacy in Belize. She has always had a passion for reading and believes that passion developed because her mother read to her every night as a little girl. She said that she was not expecting to win the first prize but is honoured to be recognized for her work. She encourages parents to read to and around their kids. She said, “If they hear you reading and see you reading they will pick up books eventually and read as well.”

Minister of Education, Hon. Patrick Faber, often stresses the importance of reading. He presented the certificates to the winners and said that he was happy to see that the first prize winner was a young person. He said competitions like these are important to the Ministry’s campaign to increase the literacy rate in Belize. The literacy rate has decreased over the last decade and it may decrease the productivity of our human resources. He said that the campaign is stressed at early childhood education but goes all the way to adults. Many adults are illiterate and though they are able to communicate they do not have a satisfactory command of the English language. To address this issue, literacy programs will continue to be launched across the country.

The importance of reading was stressed also by the Australian High Commissioner to CARICOM, His Excellency Philip Kentwell, when he visited the National Library on Thursday, January 20.  Kentwell said we need to get back to the basics and revisit our passion for reading. He continued, “Reading builds self-esteem and self discipline which will motivate the young people of the country to live productive lives.” While at the National Library, he handed over six books to the institution. 

There were a total of 26 entries submitted. The three winning entries will be read publicly in all district towns and city libraries. -2 1 0 59 2/24/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane D. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 0 0 0 robots= author= 2873 LPG Regulation Introduced -lpg-regulation-introduced-

Belmopan, 22 February, 2011. The Belize Bureau of Standards hereby informs of the introduction of the National Metrology Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Regulation 2011.

This Regulation requires all suppliers to have weighing instruments at their place of sale/business and all motor vehicles used for delivery of LPG must also be equipped with weighing instruments.

Any person who intends to trade in LPG must complete the application form found in the First Schedule of the Regulation and submit along with the application form a non-refundable fee, the weighing instrument and any other necessary documentation that the Director may require. The application form is to accommodate an initial verification of the weighing instrument, the prescribed mark of verification or the Belize Bureau of Standards Verification Sticker and pattern approval in accordance with the Act.

Any person not in possession of a weighing instrument may submit a request to the Director for the approval of information relating to the weighing instrument in place of the actual weighing instrument before making the purchase. To attain approval, the following information pertaining to the weighing instrument should be submitted:

1. Details of the manufacturer
2. Model Number
3. Serial Number
4. Capacity
5. Scale Interval
6. Evidence of international pattern approval

All weighing instruments must be verified and stamped with the Belize Bureau of Standards verification sticker before used for trade. The weighing instruments will also be sealed at the point of verification. This is to ensure transparency and to assure consumers of the accuracy of the scale.

It also sets out the general requirements for the weighing instruments that will be allowed for trade in the LPG industry. These include the following:

1. A precision balance
2. Platform machine
3. A self-indicating weighing instrument (including a price computing or printing electronic weighing machine)
4. Non-automatic weighing machine

Additionally, all weighing instruments must carry the following marking:

1. The manufacturer’s name written in full
2. Maximum capacity in the form “Max….”
3. Minimum capacity in the form “Min…”
4. Verification scale interval in the form “e=”

It is prohibited for any person to use a weighing instrument that is not clearly visible to the purchaser.

Any person found in contravention of these Regulations commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a penalty of $5000.00 and or imprisonment of six months or both.

Any person engaged in the sale of LPG prior to the commencement of these Regulations must comply with these regulations within 30 days of the date of commencement.

-1 1 0 59 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 8 0 615 robots= author= 2874 Mexican Army 98th Anniversary commemorated in Belize at the Embassy of Mexico mexican-army-98th-anniversary-commemorated-in-belize-at-the-embassy-of-mexico Belmopan, 21 February 2011.- On 19 February, Mexico celebrated the Mexican Army Day. In Belize, a commemoration ceremony was held at the Embassy of Mexico in Belmopan. The event was headed by the Mexican Military and Air Attaché, General Luis Fernando Orozco, and the Embassy of Mexico’s Chargé d’Affairs, Hector Peralta.

In celebrating the 98th Anniversary of the Mexican Army, General Orozco remarked that this military force includes individuals from all sectors of the society, the voluntary recruitment of its members and its positive reputation for its subordination to civil authority, which have characterized it above other defense forces in the world. General Orozco also highlighted the role of the Army in providing security and the defense of Mexican sovereignty, as well as the gender policies implemented and the respect for the Rule of Law and Human Rights.

Invited guest to the ceremony held in Belmopan were the Minister of Defense and Immigration of Belize, Hon. Carlos Perdomo, the Commander of the Belize Defense Force (BDF), General Dario Tapia, the Commander of the Belize National Coast Guard (BNCG), Captain John Borland, as well as military attachés in Belize, Ambassadors and other members of the Diplomatic Corps and Belizean government officials.

In particular, the Mexican Military Attaché underlined the commendable work of the Mexican Army in providing assistance to the population during natural disasters through different programs such as the National Emergency Plan, called DN-3. He highlighted as well the Mexican Army’s everyday activities in protecting national security and fighting drug trafficking and transnational organized crime.

The Mexican Army has distinguished itself not only for assisting the Mexican population. It has also provided aid to neighboring countries such as Belize during national emergencies or currently in Haiti, where Mexico has already sent an unprecedented amount of aid, equipment, personnel and expertise.

The Mexican Army was created by Venustiano Carranza in 1913 under the name of “Constitutionalist Army” in order to fight the coup d’État that overthrown the then newly elected democratic regimen. As a direct consequence of the Mexican Revolution, the Army was institutionalized through the 1917 Mexican Constitution. Later the Army was consolidated as an institution subordinated to civil authority, which prevented instability and maintained peace in Mexico until nowadays. -1 1 0 59 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 7 0 642 robots= author= 2875 SIF presents computers to YFF and Community Policing Unit sif-presents-computers-to-yff-and-community-policing-unit

An assortment of computers, including digital cameras and projectors, were presented on Wednesday February 23 by the Social Investment Fun (SIF) to Youth for the Future (YFF) and the Community Policing Unit (CPU) as part of a project to assist both organizations in the continuous training of youths seeking online job opportunities.

Sixteen desktop computers were provided to YFF and CPU, which will allow their resource centres to provide young people direct access to the job market places so that they can work without interrupting the internet services to regular users. 

The equipment was presented by Mr. Daniel Cano, Executive Director of the Social Investment Fund, while Ms. Christine Smith, Director for YFF and Senior Officials from the Police Department received the equipment on behalf of their respective organizations.  The equipment is valued at $33,210.00.

The equipment complements a month-long computer training program, held in October last year, which provided training for some 30 Belize City youths for the online job market. The objective of the training project was to sharpen the computer skills of the beneficiaries so that they can access jobs at online job marketplaces and service providers such as www.oDesk.com, www.getacoder.com and www.Freelancer.com, using the internet at the resource centres operated by YFF and CPU.

In addition to providing training in the general use of a computer and internet, the project also provided the participants with specialized training in Web Page Design, Quick Books, Photoshop and MS Office. CARDICOM, a local computer training provider, provided the computer training while Youth for the Future provided the training on job preparedness.  This training included topics such as résumé writing, effective writing of job application letters, conflict resolution, setting of employment goals and work ethics among others

The training was a joint venture of the Social Investment Fund, Youth for the Future and the Community Policing Unit (CPU) and was financed through a grant from the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF), a program promoting poverty reduction through socio-economic initiatives and community empowerment.  BNTF is jointly financed by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) and nine beneficiary governments, including Belize. 

Job creation continues to challenge most countries, including Belize, and many are beginning to realize that computer skills can provide access to the global or local work force using the internet and other developing technologies.

YFF is a youth centered agency under the Ministry of Education and Youth.  Its primary responsibility is the empowerment of our young people to participate meaningfully in the present and future development of Belize at every level. YFF is headquartered in Belize City and has district offices countrywide. YFF is also responsible for the 4-H Youth Development Centre and the National Cadet Service Corps.

The Yabra Community Police Centre on Caesar Ridge Road, Port Loyola, Belize City, is operated by the Community Policing Unit as an initiative by the Police Department to address crime through good relation with the community.  This is being developed by participating in and promoting numerous activities, which are aimed at assisting residents to improve their lives and ambiance.  The centre collaborates with several organizations such as the Conscious Youth Development Program (CYDP), Youth for the Future and government agencies and is considered a model in the region. In addition to Port Loyola, the Centre also offers its services to other critical areas of Belize City and other district towns with similar conditions.

-1 1 0 59 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 6 0 875 robots= author= 2876 Three Environmental Projects Completed in Southern Belize three-environmental-projects-completed-in-southern-belize Earlier this month, three organizations in the Toledo District successfully closed projects to help advance the conservation and natural resources management agenda for Belize.  The organizations are the C’ac’alenel Car Sa Nima (San Miguel River Fish Watchers), the Rio Blanco Mayan Association (RBMA) and the Sarstoon Temash Institute for Indigenous Management (SATIIM).

Through the project “Developing and Restoring Buffer Zones along the Rio Grande” the C’ac’alenel Car Sa Nima demarcated a 66 feet buffer zone; constructed walking trails from San Miguel Village to Tiger Cave along with eight rest stops/shelters; planted native trees and plants in the area that have been deforested; established working relationships with resorts, hotels and tour operators to increase visitation and promote the area. C’ac’alenel Car Sa Nima’s next plan of action is to seek financial assistance to conduct archaeological study of Tiger Cave, develop an environmental awareness program, and  work with the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment (MNRE) towards establishing a public reserve along a portion of the Rio Grande River.

The Rio Blanco Mayan Association (RBMA), through the project “Park Management and Community Outreach” continued to build its relationship with the communities and schools through educational programs. They provided solar powered computer systems to primary schools in Santa Elena and Santa Cruz. RMBA also strenghtened park maintenance and monitoring by instituting a 24 hour park monitoring program. This program resulted in a reduction in illegal activity within the Rio Blanco National Park.  RBMA is now seeking to establish a structured enforcement program (ranger training) and upgrade the infrastructure within the national park. Additionally, there are plans for institutional strengthening of the organization (board training) as well as plans to conduct awareness campaigns geared towards increasing visitation.

The Sarstoon Temash Institute for Indigenous Management (SATIIM) completed the project “Revision of the Sarstoon Temash National Park Management Plan”. The SATIIM spent the last year assessing the progress of the last managemnt plan as well as preparing the new  management plan for the Sarstoon Temash National Park (STNP). The plan has been submitted to the Forest Department for approval. In addition, SATIIM executed environmental education and outreach activites in conjunction with the buffer communities and primary schools.

These three projects were primarily supported by the PACT Trust and the PACT Foundation and contribute to the development of protected areas in Southern Belize. PACT congratulates these three organizations for successful completion of these projects! -1 1 0 59 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 5 0 149 robots= author= 2877 Tropic Air rationalizes airfare to cope with increased world oil prices tropic-air-rationalizes-airfare-to-cope-with-increased-world-oil-prices

Responding to some of the highest fuel costs in the last 10 years, the nation’s largest carrier, Tropic Air (like airlines everywhere) has been forced to adjust some domestic fares in order to keep up with the cost of providing safe, reliable and efficient air transportation to the people and businesses of Belize.

The new fares (adjusted by no more than BZ$5 on any segment) are effective April 1, 2011, and are a direct response to the volatility in the international prices of fuel which have risen 50% over the past year.

“As an airline dedicated to doing our part to growing and building Belize, and to providing a stable place of employment for over 250 Belizeans, we have absorbed many of the recent price spikes without passing those costs onto our valued partners” said John Greif III, President of Tropic Air. “Unfortunately, at some point though, if we are to continue to grow, expand, and improve our network, we have to pass along the very real cost of doing business to our customers”

Tropic Air operates a fleet of 11 aircraft (including the lastest generation,“glass cockpit”, air conditioned Cessna Caravans) to 11 destinations in Belize and Guatemala. With over 250 employees, Tropic Air carried 200,000 passengers in 2010, and intends to launch yet another new destination in Belize and one or more abroad later this year.

Tropic Air thanks each and every one of its over 3 million customers during the last 30 years for their support, and pledges to continue to serve them the very best that they can well into the future.

A copy of the new fare schedule is available via e-mail at marketing@tropicair.com, by phone at 226-2012 or by contacting any of our stations.
Press Release

-1 1 0 59 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 4 0 168 robots= author= 2878 Universal Birth Registration Drive universal-birth-registration-drive Kim Simplis-Barrow, Special Envoy for Women and Children and Global Ambassador for Special Olympics, has joined forces with UNICEF, the Organization of American States, the National Committee for Families and Children, the Ministry of Health and the Vital Statistics Unit to undertake a universal birth registration campaign across the country.

Belize has signed unto the United Nations Convention on the Rights of a Child and Article 7 of that convention emphasizes a child’s right to an identity.
Everyone has the right to have their birth registered. As Belize’s chief advocate for children’s rights Mrs. Barrow is passionate about birth registration.

She said that when a parent fails to register their child it is like “that child does not exist”. She said that is unacceptable. When a child is not registered it also affects other essential rights. An unregistered child has no nationality, right to an education, access to healthcare or other basic services.  

A universal birth registration drive is long overdue. It is difficult to accurately record the extent of the problem but estimates suggest that unregistered births range from about 2% in the Cayo District to about 12.4% in the Stann Creek District. The campaign will be launched on February 24 in the Toledo District, which may be the most difficult to cover. The exercise should take about a year to complete. -1 1 0 59 2/24/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane D. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 3 0 181 robots= author= 2879 What the Coalition is not telling Belizeans what-the-coalition-is-not-telling-belizeans- The Coalition to Save Our Natural Heritage is in the process of collecting signatures to take the matter of offshore and drilling in nature reserves to referendum. Their campaign, largely spearheaded by Oceana, is based on one where they claim they will educate the Belizean population on oil exploration, encourage people to sign a petition and thereafter, in a referendum, vote on whether or not oil exploration should take place offshore and in nature reserves.

The government has given the coalition three months during which they should secure at least 17,000 signatures in order to trigger the referendum. And as they go about collecting the signatures, the coalition should be educating the public on oil exploration as it takes place both offshore and on land. That education, however, should not only be concentrated on oil exploration outside of Belize. The history of oil exploration in Belize should also be presented to the Belizean people.

A quick check with the Geology and Petroleum Department indicates that oil drilling has been taking place both on and off shore in Belize as early as the 1950’s. As a matter of fact some drilling has taken place in areas that are considered ecologically sensitive. At least 17 oil wells have been drilled offshore. Among these there are two which were dug near the Sapodilla Caye Range, two off the coast of Monkey River, one near Gladden Caye, one on Glover’s Reef, six in the south Water Caye Range, one on the Turneffe Atoll, one off the coast of Northern Ambergris Caye, one in Consejo and others. Most of the wells proved to be wells which showed that there is oil in them but not in commercial quantities.

The story is similar on-shore where over 60 wells have been dug. Of these, most have proved to be similar in nature than the ones that were drilled offshore with them proving to have oil but not in commercial quantities. The only commercial finds were the ones made by BNE in Spanish Lookout and in More Tomorrow.

With the extent of drilling that has taken place in the country both on-shore and offshore and with no reports of any damage done to the environment especially offshore, the history of oil drilling in Belize is one that the coalition needs to be highlighting. What needs to be highlighted especially is the fact that even though there have been so many wells drilled there have been no reports of damage being done to the environment. -1 1 0 59 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 240 robots= author= 2880 Bishop Martin boys repeat as national primary schools basketball champions bishop-martin-boys-repeat-as-national-primary-schools-basketball-champions The 2010-2011 National Primary Schools Basketball Championships took centre stage on Friday February 18, 2011, at the Belize City Centre. In the male championship game, Bishop Martin Primary School repeated as national basketball champions when it defeated the highly favoured St. Ignatius Primary School in overtime by the score of 41 to 36.

At the end of regulation time, the championship game was netted at 33-33, and as a result three minutes overtime had to be played, in which the Bishop Martin’s defence stifled the shooting of St. Ignatius to just three points. The top scorer for Bishop Martin was Santiago Clarke with 23 points, while the top scorer for St. Ignatius Primary School was Kheimar Nicholas with 18 points.

In the male consolation game, St. Peter Claver defeated Louisiana Government School by the score of 19 to 18. The top scorer for St. Peter Claver was Adrian Vernon with 13 points, while the top scorer for Louisiana Government School was Joshua McLaughlin with 9 points.

In the first game in the semi-final round, Bishop Martin advanced to the championship game when it defeated St. Peter Claver by the score of 16 to 13. The top scorer for Bishop Martin was Santiago Clark with 11 points, and the top scorer for St. Peter Claver was Ernest Lambey with 7 points.

In the second semi-final game, St. Ignatius School defeated Louisiana Government School by the score of 30 to 19 to advance to the championship game. The top scorer for St. Ignatius School was Akeem Baptist with 15 points, while the top scorer for Louisiana Government School was Derrick Romero with 10 points.

In the first male game of the day, Bishop Martin (Cayo District) opened its defence on the right foot when it won handily over St. Francis Xavier (Corozal District) by the score of 42 to 5. The top scorer for Bishop Martin was Santiago Clark with 20 points, while the top scorer for St. Francis Xavier was Eric Lopez with 3 points.

In game two, St. Peter Claver (Toledo District) defeated Holy Family RC from Hopkins Village (Stann Creek District) by the score of 24 to 17. The top scorer for St. Peter Claver was Ernest Lambey with 12 points and the top scorer for Holy Family was Justin Nuñez with 6 points.

In the third male game of the day, St. Ignatius Primary School (Belize District) defeated St. Francis Xavier (Corozal District) by the score of 51 to 18. The top scorer for St. Ignatius was Sydney Bradley with 12 points and the top scorer for St. Francis Xavier was Eric Lopez with 7 points.

In game four, Louisiana Government School (Orange Walk District) defeated Holy Family (Stann Creek District) by the score of 16 to 4. The top scorer for Louisiana Government School was Derrick Romero with 8 points, while the top scorers for Holy Family RC were Darnell Melendrez and Clifton Castillo with 2 points each.

In game five, Bishop Martin defeated St. Ignatius School by the score of 22 to 18. The top scorer for Bishop Martin was Santiago Clark with 18 points, while the top scorer for St. Ignatius School was Akeem Baptist with 9 points.

In the final game of the first round of the championship, Louisiana Government School defeated St. Peter Claver School by the score of 16 to 13. The top scorer for Louisiana Government School was Derrick Romero with 10 points and the top scorer for St. Peter Claver was Adrian Vernon with 10 points.

At the end of the championship, Santiago Clark from Bishop Martin Primary School of the Cayo district was named the Most Valuable Player.

Meanwhile, in the female championship game, Holy Redeemer School defeated Louisiana Government School by the score of 13 to 12. The top scorer for Holy Redeemer School was Indie Dixon with 8 points. Meanwhile, the top scorers for Louisiana Government School were Beatrice Cuellar and Evonie Gentle with 4 points each.

In the consolation game, Bishop Martin defeated Sacred Heart RC by the score of 16 to 2. The top scorer for Bishop Martin was Ivorie Clark with 11 points, and the top scorer for Sacred Heart was Letecia Nuñez with 2 points.

In the first game of the semi-finals, Holy Redeemer School defeated Sacred Heart School by the score of 18 to 4. The top scorers for Holy Redeemer were Shanice Neal and Indie Dixon with 8 points each. Meanwhile, the top scorers for Sacred Heart were Timila Flores and Naomi Gamboa with 2 points each.

In the second game, Louisiana Government School defeated Bishop Martin by the score of 18 to 14. The top scorers for Louisiana Government School were Linda Duran, Xiomara Alamilla and Zelita Catzim with 4 points each, and the top scorer for Bishop Martin was Ivorie Clark with 12 points.

In the first game in the female championship, Sacred Heart (Dangriga Town, Stann Creek) defeated St. Peter Claver (Toledo District) by the score of 12 to 7. The top scorer for Sacred Heart was Naomi Gamboa with 6 points, while the top scorer for St. Peter Claver was Shardee Luzano with 5 points.
In game two, Louisiana Government School (Orange Walk District) defeated Sacred Heart by the score of 16 to 3. The top scorers for Louisiana Government were Zelita Catzim, Evonie Gentle and Xiomara Alamilla with 4 points each, while the top scorer for Sacred Heart was Letecia Nuñez with 2 points.

In the third game of the female championship, Holy Redeemer (Belize District) defeated Bishop Martin (Cayo district) by the score of 18 to 4. The top scorer for Holy Redeemer was Shanice Neal with 10 points, and the top scorers for Bishop Martin were Ivorie Clark and Nell Usher with 2 points each.
In the fourth and final game of the female category, Louisiana Government School defeated St. Peter Claver by the score of 18 to 9. The top scorer for Louisiana Government School was Yashira Bull with 7 points, and the top scorer for St. Peter Claver was Jasmine Diego with 4 points.

At the end of the female championship, Indie Dixon of Holy Redeemer School was named the Most Valuable Player. -1 1 0 41 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 3 0 787 robots= author= 2881 Nazarene High School girls lead in central region high school softball nazarene-high-school-girls-lead-in-central-region-high-school-softball The Central Region Secondary Schools Softball competition continued at Rogers Stadium with a number of games over last week and this week.  On Monday, February 21, three games were on the schedule, but only two were able to play because of the time constraint. In the first of two female games played Nazarene High School continued on its winning path when it defeated Ladyville Technical High School by the score of 10 to 5. The winning pitcher was Amber Wade and the losing pitcher was Samantha Reyes.

In the second game played St. Catherine Academy ended up winning over Anglican Cathedral College by the score of 42 to 35 after squandering a 33 to 9 lead. The winning pitcher was Erin Brackett and the losing pitcher was Leanne Davis.

On Wednesday, February 16, in the female game played, Wesley College defeated Gwen Lizarraga High School by the score of 12 to 10. The winning pitcher was Melissa Williams and the losing pitcher was Roslyn Smith.

In the male game, Gwen Lizarraga High School defeated Anglican Cathedral College by the score of 20 to 10. The winning pitcher was Shaquille Moody and the losing pitcher was Ito Acosta.

On Friday, February 18, in the female competition, St. Catherine Academy defeated its rival Pallotti High School by the score of 16 to 3. The winning pitcher was Erin Brackett and the losing pitcher was Gorlee Marin.

In the male game, St. John’s College won via the default route over Anglican Cathedral College. ACC could not field a team at scheduled game time nor did they have a school teacher with the team at game time. -1 1 0 41 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 2/24/2011 21:06:52 64 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 2 0 4 0 576 robots= author= 2882 5th Annual Belize Bank Super League competition sets to start 5th-annual-belize-bank-super-league-competition-sets-to-start The 5th Annual Belize Bank Super League competition is scheduled to commence this coming weekend Saturday and Sunday, February 26 and 27, 2011, respectively.

This year’s competition will feature eight teams from across the country. The teams that are participating in this year’s competition includes: City Boys United from Belize City, the defending champions, Orange Walk F.C. (Orange Walk Town), Third World F.C. from Belize City, Cayo South United from Belmopan, Benque D.C. United from Benque Viejo Del Carmen, Griga Knights from Dangriga Town, Placencia Assassin from Placencia and Paradise Freedom fighters from Punta Gorda Town. -1 1 0 41 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 715 robots= author= 2883 Darnell Barrow takes Saturday cycling race darnell-barrow-takes-saturday-cycling-race The Belize Cycling Association sponsored its usual Saturday race on February 19, 2011, where some 35 riders participated in the 26 miles event. The event started from Mile 2 on the Western Highway to Hattieville and then back to Belize City where it was concluded.

At the end of 1:03:38, it was Darnell Barrow of Santino’s Belize who captured first place. The second rider to cross the finish line was Erwin Middleton of Team INDECO; third place went to Devon Medwood of Clear the Land cycling team, fourth place went to Sherman Thomas of Team Police with Brian Lopez of Team INDECO finishing fifth to round off the top five finishers in this event.

Other top finishers in this event included Henry Moreira of Zamir Cycling Team, Amidez Rivas also of Zamir Cycling Team, Christian McNish of Benny’s Megabytes, Elmer Rivas of Team Smart Cycling, and Roque Matus who is unattached finished tenth.

In the junior and youth categories, some 18 riders participated in the 26 miles event with Deezan Spence of Twin Towns Cycling finishing first in a time of 1:09:56. The second rider to cross the finish line was Giovanni Lovell of Team INDECO, third place went to Austin Armstrong of Twin Towns Cycling, and fourth place went to Adrian Lineras of Clear the Land Cycling, while Roy Wiltshire of Twin Towns Cycling finished fifth to round off the top finishers. -1 1 0 41 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 619 robots= author= 2884 Smart Challenge Cup 2011 rolls on at the MCC Grounds smart-challenge-cup-2011-rolls-on-at-the-mcc-grounds The Super League of Belize Smart Challenge Cup 2011 continued at the MCC Grounds in Belize City on Saturday, February 19, with three games on the schedule.

In the first of three games played, Atlantic Insurance defeated City Boys United by the score of 4 to 2. The goal scorers for the Atlantic Insurance team were Jamal Martinez (2) and Bryan Martinez (2), while the goal scorers for City Boys United were Shawn Thurton and Mark Grant.

In game two, West Lake defeated King’s Park FC by the score of 12 to 2.  The goal scorers for West Lake were Leon Cadle (3), Jarret Davis (3), Wayne Miller (2), Leon Jones, Ellon Faber, Joshua Salam, and Melhem Hernandez. Meanwhile, the goal scorers for King’s Park were Ismael Leon and Edwin Castro.

In the final game of the day, Ebony Lake defeated Atlantic Bank by the score of 9 to 1. The goal scorers for Ebony Lake were David Robateau (3), Kenroy Martin (2), John Castro (2) Densmore Edwards and Phillip Lamb, while the goal scorer for Atlantic Bank was Jorge Estrada.

The competition will continue on Saturday, February 26, at the MCC Grounds commencing at 3:00 pm. In game one, Brown Bombers will go up against Kelly Street. In game two, KHMH Authority will see action against Ebony Lake and in the final game of the day it will be Yabra FC against Atlantic Insurance. -1 1 0 59 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 149 robots= author= 2885 5 years for stealing $20.00 5-years-for-stealing-2000- Twenty six year old fisherman, Marlon Young, a resident of #4 Barrack Road will have to spend five years in jail for breaking into a jewelry shop in Belize City. Businessman Carlos Medina reported to police that sometime between 5:00p.m. on Thursday, February 10, and 7:30 a.m., on Friday, February 11, his store which is located at the Commercial Center was broken into; 20 dollars was stolen. Police investigations led them to Marlon Young who was pointed out by two eyewitnesses who saw him leaving the area.

In a caution statement to police, Young admitted to police that he was the one who pried open the side metal door facing the western side of the building where he managed to gain entry into Medina’s jewelry store.

On Monday, February 21, Young was taken to Magistrate’s court before Magistrate Emerson Banner, where he was charged with one count of burglary for stealing $20.00 in cash. He initially pleaded not guilty to the charge but within minutes changed his not guilty plea to guilty and was sentenced to five years imprisonment for the crime. Young has three previous convictions for burglary and a most recent conviction for theft. -1 1 0 39 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 4 0 649 robots= author= 2886 Busted at MCC with 9mm pistol busted-at-mcc-with-9mm-pistol On Saturday, February 19, police conducted a search on a group of male persons who were seated on the bleachers at the MCC grounds. That search led police to the discovery of a 9mm pistol chrome in color with no serial number along with 18 live rounds: 16 Aguila brand and 2 brown GFL brand.

As a result, police arrested and charged 35-year-old Carl Paulino who appeared in Court #6 on Monday, February 21, before Magistrate Dorothy Flowers where he was read a charge for keeping a firearm without a gun license and one charge for keeping ammunition without a gun license. He was remanded into custody. -1 1 0 39 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 3 0 744 robots= author= 2887 Fined $2,000 for stealing a cash register valued $431.00 fined-2000-for-stealing-a-cash-register-valued-43100 The Princess Hotel and Casino’s Bowling Room was burglarized over the weekend of February 5 and 6. The burglar managed to steal a cashier register valued at $431.00 which contained over $400.00 in cash. As a result of the incident, Police conducted investigations which led to the arrest of the establishment’s former employee, 27-year-old Gilroy Garnett a resident of #89 Freetown Road.

On Monday evening Garnett appeared in Court #8 before Magistrate Emerson Banner where he was charged with burglary. He pleaded guilty to burglary and was fined $2,000. Garnett has until March 31 of this year to make the payment; in default, he will be imprisoned for two years.

Police say that while eyewitness statements linked Garnett to the crime, in an interview with police, they say he also confessed of committing the burglary. Police also retrieved a surveillance camera which put him at the crime scene. -1 1 0 39 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 613 robots= author= 2888 Sasha Lopez charged for stabbing Elizabeth Olivia Martinez sasha-lopez-charged-for-stabbing-elizabeth-olivia-martinez On Thursday, February 17, 23-year-old Elizabeth Olivia Martinez was stabbed once to the chest as she was standing in front of her home on Aloe Vera Street. Reports are that at about 4:00 p.m. Martinez got into an altercation with 21-year-old Sasha Lopez over a flash drive. Martinez’s brother had allegedly loaned Lopez the flash drive and she did not return it and that sparked the argument. Eyewitnesses said that Martinez threw a padlock towards Lopez which caught her purse and that’s when Lopez pulled out a knife and stabbed Martinez in the left side of the chest. After being stabbed she ran across the street to her home where she collapsed and had to be rushed to the KHMH for treatment.

After being four days in police custody, the woman accused of the stabbing, Sasha Lopez, was arraigned in the Belize City Magistrate’s Court. She appeared in Court #2 before Senior Magistrate Sharon Frazer where she was read a single charge of dangerous harm. In court, prosecutor, Sgt. Carol Tucker objected to bail on the grounds that the victim is still in critical condition at the KHMH. Lopez’s attorney Phillip Palacio noted that Martinez has been discharged from the hospital. After confirming this, Magistrate Frazer offered Lopez bail in the sum of $6,000 plus two sureties of $3,000 each which she met. The bail was set with the condition that Lopez must stay away from Martinez and not interfere with her.  The case was adjourned for April 18. -1 1 0 39 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 790 robots= author= 2889 JOBS jobs The weekend papers are full of adverts for attractive sounding jobs, large farms constantly apply for employment permits for immigrant farm labour, migrants cross our borders every day to seek work in the construction and housework industry and yet there is a deafening cry for jobs all over the land.  There is a huge disconnect at both ends of the scale that we must face.

At the high end we have too few people qualified for the jobs that are advertised which require an associate degree at the very minimum and often Bachelor or Masters Degrees.  And not just any old degree but qualifications in specific, and often difficult, fields.  Often people ask for a job and when queried about what kind of job they want they reply, “Anything”.  Such a response indicates that if they are looking for anything then they are qualified for nothing.  Instead of saying what they can do some people asking for a job qualify their request by stating that they are “a single mother of x children”, “a father desperate to send his children to school”, “a loyal supporter of a certain political party”.  Such requests signify that they view a job as a gift or patronage whereas the job is really a contract between an employer and an employee.  The employer agrees to pay a certain wage under established conditions and the employee agrees to do the job required of him or her.  The government cannot provide all the jobs that the population needs, nor should it try.  The government’s task is to provide conditions that are conducive to job creation through infrastructure and good governance and to safeguard the rights of all parties.

At the other end of the scale there are obviously unskilled jobs out there in farming and housework and semi-skilled employment in construction but few Belizeans are eager to take up these jobs for the salaries offered.  Some employers say that Belizeans are not reliable and whether this is true or not it is certainly a prevailing perception.  One can understand why a young person receiving a regular remittance from a relative in the USA might turn up their nose at a low paying job that would require them to travel across the country and work long hours at repetitive tasks.  However, it is ultimately soul destroying to exist on hand outs.  The folks who cross our borders to take up such jobs are probably more desperate and have fewer options.  The efforts being made by Hon. ‘Boots’ Martinez and others to employ unskilled Southside youths in infrastructure projects is an important step in the direction of changing attitudes.

There are also many voices promoting the idea of our young people becoming entrepreneurs and worthy as these encouraging words may be it is not easy to start one’s own business, even for someone with some education, especially for a young person who has never held a job.

There are few shortcuts and people are understandably impatient.  However, education is the surest route for preparing people to take up existing jobs and the creation of new, hopefully high quality jobs.  -1 10 0 56 2/24/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 2/24/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 2084 robots= author= 2890 Single mother of 3 looking for Arthur single-mother-of-3-looking-for-arthur

Listeners of Wave’s Fus Ting dah Mawning were left slack jawed last week when a caller, who identified himself as William, pleaded on the airwaves for “Arthur” to take care of his children. William told radio listeners that Arthur should visit his (William’s) sister and begin to take care of his three children that he has abandoned. William also said that Arthur should not worry about the land which he had promised his sister and just take care of his responsibilities.

While William did not identify the Arthur he was referring to, in serial caller fashion, Wave Radio, immediately received a call from PUP Standard Bearer in Belize Rural North, Arthur Saldivar, who was laughing at the situation. Apparently he tried to associate himself with the entire matter by calling in to dis-‘claim’ the prize. No one had even alluded to the fact that William was referring to Arthur Saldivar as a deadbeat dad so it was a shock for him to have called the radio station to ‘clear’ his name. While the talk show hosts thought that was the end of it, there was yet another episode on the situation.

While the first episode was bad enough, on Wednesday, March 2, another call came in to Wave; this time it was William’s sister, who identified herself as Dez, who called in. Dez told listeners that she has three children with Arthur in Ladyville and he is simply refusing to take care of them. She explained that her brother William had taken on the responsibility of taking care of the three children who have never seen their father. That, however, is no longer possible as William does not have a job and is now unable to take on another man’s responsibility.

The whole matter is not laughable as three children left to the mercies of the world because of a deadbeat dad is a serious situation. Even as that is the case, there are a few questions that linger in the minds of Belizeans; one in particular is ‘who is this Arthur that William and Dez are looking for?’ It was never said that it was Arthur Saldivar who is the deadbeat dad but then again, why would the hog bawl? -1 6 0 53 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 3/3/2011 18:58:52 64 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 3 0 2 0 1934 robots= author= 2891 Godfrey gives it to Johnny godfrey-gives-it-to-johnny On February 25 Godfrey Smith, who was once a deputy party leader of the People’s United Party and a minister for the PUP, struck with ‘great vengeance and furious anger’ on the current PUP party leader, Johnny Briceno. He spewed Briceno’s maladies as if he were the great healer with the ability to cure all and forgot that he himself was one of those cankers which toppled the PUP from its tower of corruption. But for Smith to strike the keyboard in such a manner as to openly confront the PUP leader and to call for his head is strange. Having had the history of being the lord’s favourite go-getter and go-doer, one is left but to wonder if Smith’s words are not those of the lord himself.

The manipulator and the pawn aside, what Smith wrote about is simple truth. Briceno has braced himself in two conventions, in the first run he pretended to be the PUP’s salvation distancing himself from the evil and demons of his party. On the second go-round, however, he encircled himself with the fire and brimstone of those same demons he tried to distance himself from. He’s turned the PUP right back to the path of corruption (not that this party has ever had the ability to do any such thing), having the same figureheads who crumbled the PUP closest to him. It is no wonder that these days we hear nothing of the great saviors like Stuart Leslie and Eamon Courtenay. Courtenay, by the way, is the National Campaign Manager for the PUP. He has absented himself from every single convention that the PUP has had recently. As for Courtenay, need we draw a connecting line between himself and Smith that directly leads to the lord?

But connecting lines are one thing and Briceno’s leadership is another, it’s in trouble! Recently a deputy party leader, Dan Silva threatened to resign, for the likes of us we have not been able to figure out if he has or hasn’t. Hector Silva, a member of the Order of Distinguished Service (ODS) has resigned. He says the PUP is departing from its core values, hello! Don. Hector the PUP no longer has any values and have sunk to the lowest form of human existence but then again, we can’t forget that Don. Hector has had a bone stuck in his throat called Lisa which he simply has not been able to spit out or swallow since he was removed as senator by Johnny Briceno.

Then there are other issues like the fact that there was a demonstration in which Leonardo Chavarria openly challenged Johnny to do better in selecting candidates as the ODS is a joke. The ODS rejected Chavarria from contesting in a convention against Mike Espat in Toledo East because he has a criminal record. Similarly however a self-confessed woman beater is allowed to run in a division in Cayo. Rudy Wade was similarly disqualified from running in a convention in Cayo South against Julius Espat and Jerome Wade couldn’t run against Arthur Saldivar. There is also the case of Jose Braddick who is not being allowed to contest a convention in the Toledo West Constituency because he has insufficient political experience.  And while the PUP continues to cast aside candidate after candidate, the old guard’s chosen few pop up without being contested. These include Mike Espat, Rodwell Ferguson, Julius Espat and others. This is evident by the rally-round-the leader demonstration by the various PUP Caucuses North, South, East, and West which took place after Smith launched his attack of Johnny.

Indeed it’s a pitiful state of affairs for the PUP under Johnny but unlike Godfrey Smith’s rendition of Dr. Seuss’ poem, we say:  Johnny, please don’t go, don’t go, don’t go. You are not a leader and we like it that way. -1 6 0 53 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 3/3/2011 19:02:09 64 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 4 0 1 0 1694 robots= author= 2892 New Road of Opportunities for the South new-road-of-opportunities-for-the-south

On Monday, February 28, the Government of Belize through the Ministry of Works signed on to a 47,995,867.50 dollar contract with Cisco Construction limited. The contract will see the upgrading of the road from Big Falls Village in the Toledo district to the Belize/Guatemala Border at Jalacte. In effect the road will completely open up a second border crossing point between Belize and Guatemala at Jalacte. The road will also allow for better access for villages in the Toledo District.

The project is being financed through a loan from the Kuwait Fund for the Arab Economic Development and AFID (OPEC Fund for the International Development), the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI). Counterpart funding is being contributed by the Government of Belize.

A total of 23 miles of road will be paved from Big falls Village at mile 14 ‘the Dump’ to a location 1.5 kilometers south of Jalacte Village. The road will pass though the villages of Mafredi, San Antonio, Santa Cruz, Santa Elena and Pueblo Viejo. The road cross section will be comprised of two 3.25 meters wide lanes with one meter wide paved shoulders; this is a total of 8.5 meters surfaced roadway width. All major existing box culverts and concrete bridges will be rehabilitated to ensure continued service life. Cisco Construction, who will be executing the project, estimates that it will be three years before the road is completed.

-1 6 0 54 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 404 robots= author= 2893 1st Ever Street Art Festival 1st-ever-street-art-festival

The first Street Art Festival was held on Albert Street in Belize City on Saturday, February 26. Judging from various reviews, it will certainly not be the last.

A steady flow of Belizeans and foreigners made their way out to enjoy the entertainment and view the art pieces on display. Albert Street was blocked off from the Belize Bank to the Bank of Nova Scotia. Tents were set up across the stretch featuring the works of various artists. There were paintings, weaved baskets, sculptures, local fashion accessories and more. The diplomatic corps also took part as several embassies had displays where they showed off items originating from their homeland. The most memorable art display was a woman immortalized as a statue- painting of an artistic genius. Her lifeless stare and unshaken posture had most people believing that she was actually a statue. Spectators were asked to donate a dollar at the base of the statue to witness something remarkable. At the placement of a dollar, spectators were shocked when the statue turned towards them and shook their hands. A couple people almost jumped out of their shoes when she turned towards them.

For those not attracted by the lifeless, live entertainment was available throughout the evening. There were presentations of song, dance, skits, poems and combination pieces. Two stages were used: one in front of the Bank of Nova Scotia and the other was the Bandstand inside the Battlefield Park. The stages hosted dance groups like the Belize Dance Company, Reformation Dancers, Ugundani Dancers, New Generation and others. There was a live band on both stages and between the two locations there were music groups jamming along the way.  Steel pan music set the relaxing mood and storytelling took us to places we’ve never been before. The children and big kids had entertainment of their own when Ozzy the Clown presented his awesome routine.

The first Street Art Festival highlighted just how much Belize has to offer. At the first annual Belize Music Awards, it was Ivan Duran who said that Belize has the most talented population per capita. To truly showcase Destination Belize, the display at the Festival on Saturday should be mirrored all year long.

-1 1 0 59 3/3/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane D. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 9 0 627 robots= author= 2894 2011 National ADM Mills Secondary School Nutrition Quiz Competition 2011-national-adm-mills-secondary-school-nutrition-quiz-competition

March 1, 2011. The Ministries of Education and Health in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and UNICEF is hosting the eleventh annual National ADM Secondary School Nutrition Quiz Competition.

The Nutrition Quiz Competition provides students and teachers with updated information on Nutrition and Health with the overall objective of improving the image of food and nutrition in Belize and the region and promoting nutrition and healthy lifestyle among students and the community – particularly as it relates to dietary practices and the reduction in chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes.

The competition is funded annually by the ADM Belize Mills Limited, the respective ministries, PAHO and UNICEF. It is designed to challenge students to compete against each other throughout Belize. Winners of the National competition then proceed to compete in the Regional Nutrition Quiz Competition organized by the Caribbean Food and Nutrition Institute (CFNI). 

This year’s competition begins on March 2 in the Corozal District.  District competitions continue as follows:

CAYO District   March 15 & 16
STANN CREEK District  March 18
TOLEDO District   March 17
BELIZE District   March 9 & 11
ORANGE WALK District March 4

The National Finals of the ADM Mills Secondary School Nutrition Quiz Competition is scheduled for May 12, 2011 in Belize City. At this event, each District will be represented by one school, except for Belize and Cayo which will be represented by two schools.  Each participating school is being represented by a team of three students and one alternate.      

Press Release

-1 1 0 59 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 8 0 1164 robots= author= 2895 Cayo residents receive brand new Post Office cayo-residents-receive-brand-new-post-office-

Santa Elena, Cayo District, 1 March, 2011. Residents of Santa Elena in the Cayo District no longer need to travel to San Ignacio to send or receive their mails or parcel posts. That’s because a new post office building was today inaugurated in that western municipality by the Minister of Public Utilities, Information and Broadcasting, Hon. Elvin Penner and the Area Representative Hon. Rene Montero.

The office will meet the mail, parcel and electronic delivery needs of the area residents. This is because the new Post Office is fully equipped with Internet service which will be utilized for keeping track of all mails sent or received at the premises.

In his remarks at the ceremonies, Minister Montero told the gathered residents that they will now have faster access to their mails, will be able to keep track of the route of their mails and will enjoy a higher quality of service from the new post office.

For his part, Minister Penner remarked: “With the advent of technology, one would think that letters would have become obsolete by now; however, many many people rely on writing and receiving letters as a means of communication with their friends and loved ones from afar…” He pointed out that not every household has e-mail or internet, hence the work that the postal offices do is vital to the existence of many.

Later the same day, a motorcycle and a computer were handed over to the Benque Viejo sub post office in order to assist them in their delivery of services.

Postal services and the establishment of a post office in Belize started on January 7, 1830. In 1892 the town of San Ignacio opened its first post office. Belize now has seven full-service post offices, six sub post offices and a large quantity of community post offices.

The new post office has created employment for three additional area residents.

-1 1 0 59 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 7 0 687 robots= author= 2896 Child Stimulation Month child-stimulation-month

Infant students from various primary and preschools across Belize City paraded through the streets accompanied by teachers, parents and marching bands as they officially kicked off Child Stimulation Month. 

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the celebration of Child Stimulation Month and activities are being held countrywide under the theme “Early Childhood Education; The Best Possible Start”.  The parade started at the Constitution Park and ended at Memorial Park with a rally.  Upon the culmination of the parade at the Memorial Park the gathering was entertained with presentations by beginner students as well as cultural dances by the Steppers Dance Group. 

Margaret Williams, Education Officer with responsibility for Early Childhood Education and Development said, “Hearing child stimulation we think about the delivery of the early childhood program, its effectiveness and how it impacts our young children.” There are a number of activities planned for the month across the country. Highlighted events are sports days and the Festival of Arts. Parents play a significant role in child stimulation and events are planned for them as well. Activities will be organized for community helpers and policemen to make visits and speak to the little children.

Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Education, David Leacock, released a speech emphasizing the role of parents in early childhood education. The link between parental involvement in early learning and parent/teenager relationship is directly proportionate. Parents are encouraged to play a more active role in their children’s activities and make an effort to be a galvanizing force behind their positive development. The parade, as usual, saw many parents taking part. What was even more significant is that this time the fathers were well represented.

-1 1 0 59 3/3/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane B. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 6 0 611 robots= author= 2897 Special Envoy and CARE Deliver Gifts of Mobility special-envoy-and-care-deliver-gifts-of-mobility On Monday, February 28, Mrs. Kim Simplis-Barrow, Special Envoy for Women and Children and Global Ambassador to Special Olympics, collaborated with Care Belize to deliver special mobility carts to 20 Belizeans with physical disabilities. They are called Personal Energy Transportation Carts (PET Carts) and according to the Director of CARE- Belize, Evan Cowo, the machines have been extensively field tested for almost fifteen years.

He said that the idea to manufacture the carts was born in 1995 when Reverend Larry Hills, missionary to Africa, saw the need for three-wheeled, hand-cranked wheelchairs for victims of polio and landmines. Hills contacted a friend in the United States and the manufacturing process began. The carts were ready in 1996 and four were shipped to Hills for testing. He was asked to put the machines in the worst terrains he can find and see if they pass the test. Larry did so and fifteen years later the carts have proven effective in extensive tests.

Cowo said that the conversation to bring PET Carts to Belize started in 2009 when Mark Richards of Hope Haven International Ministries participated in a Rotary Fair. Richards had previously visited CARE-Belize in 2007 and the two ministries developed a close bond. Hope Haven International Ministries owns a factory in Antigua, Guatemala that produces wheelchairs and other devices for people with disabilities. At the Rotary Fair a dialogue to get 100 customized wheelchairs for Belizean children began. An official offer for 100 specialized chairs was made when a CARE-Belize representative attended the Central American Mobility Partnership and met Von Driggs of PET International. Von Driggs introduced her to PET Carts and made an offer of 100 carts for Belizeans struggling with mobility issues. Cowo said that they accepted the offer through the office of the Special Envoy for Women and Children. The carts offered to Belize are manufactured in Florida; therefore, shipment cost was the next issue. Fortunately, Driggs learnt that a US Navy ship, USS Gunston Hall, was making a stop in Belize. Through collaboration with the US Embassy, the Gunston Hall provided the shipping service. 

It was an extremely joyous occasion when the carts were handed out on Monday. Several diplomats and representatives of international organizations were present to view the handing over. Twelve adults and eight children received PET Carts on Monday. Mrs. Barrow said that there are 80 additional carts that will be distributed countrywide over time but the first ceremony included recipients from across the country. The carts can handle most terrains depending on the muscle power of the driver. They are sturdy and durable, easy to maintain and relatively cheap. They use wheelbarrow wheels and solid rubber tires. The hand-cranked pedals can go in either directions and the device is equipped with a front wheel brake and a park brake at the rear wheel. There are three models of PET Carts: adult size crank carts, child size cranked carts and Pull PETs for individuals that do not have the upper body strength or coordination for cranking. According to Cowo, PET International asks for a donation of US$250 for the manufacturing and shipment of a PET Cart. 

Some of the children that received PET Carts were featured artists on the 2011 Special Olympics calendar. The carts should prove very useful because all eight of them have been integrated in the regular school system. Many of the adults were ecstatic about their new carts. Santos Elijio said people use to tell him that he is good for nothing. He said that it is difficult when you have to depend on other people because “people tell yo dehn soon come and dehn goh and noh come back.” He said that the cart will allow him to do more stuff on his own. He is now able to go shop for groceries and pack the goods in the back of his cart. There are many with similar stories to Elijio. Though they are physically challenged, do not for a second think they are incapable. A couple of the adult recipients were entrepreneurs and all were productive citizens. The Special Envoy and CARE-Belize appeal to motorists to drive carefully. They also ask businesses to include entrance points that can be accessed by pedestrians on wheels. Mrs. Barrow said that we have come a long way in the move towards total inclusion for people with disabilities. She said that the next step is for Belize to sign on to the Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities. Her lobbying for that act continues. Meanwhile, PET International will continue in their effort to deliver the gift of mobility to more than 20 million people with physical disabilities.   -1 1 0 59 3/3/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane B. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 5 0 768 robots= author= 2898 Taiwan Scholarships Available taiwan-scholarships-available There is still time to apply for a scholarship under the Taiwan Scholarship Program 2011. The Taiwan Scholarship Program is a global initiative of the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan).

According to John Chang, First Secretary of the Taiwan Embassy to Belize, the program has been opened to Belizeans since 2002. Since 2002, 160 Belizeans have received scholarships to study in Bachelor, Master or Doctorate degree programs. 80 have already graduated and the success rate is extremely high.

The program opens every year shortly after the Chinese New Year celebration in February. There are two different scholarship programs for Belizeans hoping to study in Taiwan. The Taiwan Scholarship Program offers six scholarships and the International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF) program offers approximately 20 scholarships. While the programs under the ICDF are in English, the programs included in the Taiwan Scholarship Program are in Mandarin. Therefore, a Mandarin Language Enrichment Program (LEP) is included to improve the recipients’ language abilities. Successful applicants must enroll in the LEP for one year before they enroll in their actual program. Under the Taiwan Scholarship Program, recipients are provided with a round trip economy class airfare, and a monthly stipend of NT$30,000 (approximately US$930) to cover the costs of tuition, board and lodging, books and medical insurance. Under the ICDF program, recipients are provided with a round trip airfare, housing, tuition fees, credit fees, insurance, textbook costs, and a monthly allowance which varies for different study programs. Last year 27 students were granted scholarships: 21 under the ICDF program. John Chang said that along with the six scholarships under the Taiwan Scholarship Program this year, there will be at least 17 under the ICDF. He hopes that it will be even more than the 21 offered last year.

Therefore, the Embassy is searching for some outstanding students to apply for the scholarships. They have expanded their applicant base by increasing advertisement. The Guardian was added as a medium of advertisement. The Ministry of Education was asked to recommend students. Tertiary level institutions such as the University of Belize and Galen University were also asked to recommend students. Interested individuals must apply for the scholarships as early as possible because the deadline for the ICDF scholarships varies depending on the program. The deadline varies from March 15 to April 30 which is the closing date for all applications.

All applicants must meet certain requirements. They must be Belizean citizens of good moral character who have excellent mental and physical health. They must possess at least a high school diploma and should not be a current recipient of a scholarship or any subsidy offered by the Government of Taiwan or any other educational institutions in Taiwan. Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 30 (born between January 1, 1981, and June 30, 1993) to successfully apply for a scholarship under the Taiwan Scholarship Program. For the ICDF program applicants must be under the age of 50.

At the closing of the program, officials at the Embassy will review the applications and forward them to the relevant institutions in Taiwan for final decision. The results should be forwarded to the Embassy by the end of June or early July. Applicants who receive the scholarships under the Taiwan Scholarship Program will leave by August 20 because they require a longer preparation period. ICDF students will leave at the end of August.
For more information, interested individuals can contact Mr. John Chang at the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) located at #20 North Park Street in Belize City. Telephone number is 227-8744 or 223-1862. Website address for the embassy is www.taiwanembassy.org/bz or e-mail at embroc@btl.net. -1 1 0 59 3/3/2011 06:00:00 64 Shane B. Williams 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 4 0 1551 robots= author= 2899 New BNE Trust General Manager is Tracy Panton new-bne-trust-general-manager-is-tracy-panton-

The Board of Trustees of the BELIZE Natural Energy Trust is pleased to introduce its new General Manager, Mrs. Tracy Panton.  Mrs. Panton holds a Masters degree in Business Administration from the University of the West Indies (Cave Hill Campus, Barbados) and Bachelor of Science degree in Tourism Management from Florida International University in Miami, Florida.   Mrs. Panton brings with her a wealth of management and leadership experience from her years of service to both the tourism public and private sectors.   In December of 2009, Mrs. Panton completed a twelve-year tenure with the Belize Tourism Board where she was instrumental in the overall development of Belize’s tourism economy.   She has also served on several Boards and humanitarian organizations and is currently the standing President of the Belize Red Cross Society.   She has travelled extensively at home and abroad and has worked closely with both the NGO Community as well as with international financing institutions and donors.

The BELIZE Natural Energy Trust is committed to empower people and communities in a socially and environmentally responsive manner to upholding our principles of Fairness, Respect, Transparency, Inclusiveness, Collaboration, and Sustainability.  Our capable Team is focused on implementing programs and projects that will serve as a catalyst for development by providing financial support for both infrastructural projects as well as capacity building programs.  Our student loan initiative provides seed funding for secondary and tertiary education in collaboration with major credit unions countrywide.    We welcome strategic alliances/partnerships that will help us to ensure the sustainability of the Trust and remain responsive to the people and communities we serve.
Tracy is married to Herbert Panton and the couple has two daughters, Adreanna and Hope.  She is committed to the development of the people and country of Belize, is the consummate professional and is a true humanitarian at heart.    Please join the Trustees in welcoming our new GM, Mrs. Tracy Panton, on board.

The BELIZE Natural Energy Trust is a partnership between the Government of Belize and Belize Natural Energy Limited.   For more information on the Programs and Projects of the Trust, visit our website at www.bnetrust.org , contact us at email address gm@bnetrust.org or at telephone numbers 822-2440/2441. 

Press Release

-1 1 0 59 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 3 0 901 robots= author= 2900 US Pays Belizean American $800,000 for Deportation Attempt us-pays-belizean-american-800000-for-deportation-attempt Rennison Castillo moved to the land of opportunities to work hard and live a productive life. He joined the United States Army and served at Fort Lewis. Castillo earned his citizenship in 1998 while in the Army. 

As a retired Army veteran and Washington State resident, Castillo got into trouble with the law for violating a protection order and harassment.

According to Fox News Latino, he was tried and convicted for the offense and upon serving time for that sentence in 2005 he was transported to the Northwest Detention Center where he awaited deportation. Though Castillo is a US citizen and he tried repeatedly to get that point across to Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers (ICE), he was locked up for seven months awaiting deportation. 

His cause was defended by the Northwest Immigrants Rights Project with the assistance of Seattle attorneys. Castillo’s defense group proved that he was a citizen and that the ICE and immigration judge had humiliated an Army veteran. In settlement, Castillo received US$400,000 and an apology from the Assistant US Attorney Philip Lynch who handled the case.    -1 1 0 59 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 743 robots= author= 2901 Five years of back pay for Aldo Ayuso, still wants to be a cop five-years-of-back-pay-for-aldo-ayuso-still-wants-to-be-a-cop On Tuesday, March 1, ex- Police Officer Aldo Ayuso was back in the Supreme Court before Justice Oswell Legal on a matter against the Commissioner of Police and the Belize Advisory Board after he was dismissed from the Belize Police Department. That dismissal officially took place on February 25, 2011. In court Justice Legal ruled that Ayuso must be paid five years back payment with interest and all allowances and increments must be included.

Even with that ruling, Ayuso says he will be appealing the decision and is seeking to be reinstated as a police officer.

Ayuso’s dismissal letter states: “be informed that you are hereby dismissed from the Belize Police Department effective February 25, 2011, on the advice of the Solicitor General as a result of your conviction in a Disciplinary Tribunal on the charge of ‘use of a firearm without just cause’.”

In 2005 Ayuso was charged with manslaughter in the shooting death of Leslie Rogers which occurred on February 12 of that year. Since then Ayuso has been accused of many wrongdoings but has never been convicted of any.

-1 1 0 39 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 850 robots= author= 2902 Akeem Lord pleads guilty for uncustomed goods akeem-lord-pleads-guilty-for-uncustomed-goods At about 3:50 on Wednesday, February 23, police and customs personnel intercepted two vans that were travelling on the Northern Highway outside of Orange Walk Town. At the time police officers drove a police vehicle across the road forcing the vans to stop. While the vans were detained, the occupants of the vehicles managed to escape. That was not the end of it however as just minutes before the interception the law enforcement personnel detected a vehicle which was acting as a lookout for the two vans. Upon seeing that the vans had not continued on their journey, that vehicle, a Jeep Cherokee, had returned to check on the vans and as a result the driver was detained. That led police to later detain 22-year-old Belize City resident, Akeem Lord, Akeem Reneau, a driver of Belize City, Amir Garcia a laborer of Belize City and his brother Andrew Garcia, all of Belize City.

The men all appear in the Orange Walk Magistrate’s Court before Revenue Magistrate Aretha Ford where Lord was represented by Attorney Dickie Bradley. The men were jointly charged with one count each of recklessly acquiring uncustomed goods to wit- 144 cases of Baileys, 144 cases of Miller beer, 52 cases of Coors Beer, 56 cases of Miller genuine draft filter beer, two cases of Johnny Walker Black Label Whisky and 25 cases of Heineken beer all to a total of $42,888.00. In Court, Lord wasted no time and pleaded guilty to the charge.  He was fined $128,664.00 which he must pay by August 1 in default two years imprisonment.  The charge was then withdrawn from the other three city residents and they were free to go. -2 1 0 39 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 3/3/2011 19:36:54 64 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 2 0 0 0 135 robots= author= 2903 Busted on Queen Street with .38 gun busted-on-queen-street-with-38-gun On Monday, February 28, Hassan Valerio, 28, a Resident of #43 Gabourel Lane, appeared in Magistrate’s Court where he was charged with one count of keeping a firearm without a gun license and one count of keeping ammunition without a gun license. He appeared unrepresented before Senior Magistrate Sharon Frazer where Valerio was told that due to the nature of the offense he could not be granted bail at the Magistrate’s Court level but that he can apply for bail with the help of an attorney at the Supreme Court within ten days from the date of his arraignment. He was then remanded to the Hattieville Prison.

Police say that Valerio was a few houses away from his home when on Friday, February 26, at about 4:00 a.m., while police officers were on Foot Patrol on Queen Street, they spotted him wearing a dark hooded jacket and riding a bicycle contrary to the flow of traffic. He was stopped by the officers and a search was conducted on him which led police to find a .38 Smith and Wesson brand gun with serial number 57061 along with eight rounds of .38 live ammunition. -1 1 0 39 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 671 robots= author= 2904 CITCO’s 5th Anniversary citcos-5th-anniversary

On March 1, 2006 the United Democratic Party took control of the Belize City Council. Though it has been a challenging task to deliver services to a city deep in debt, the administration has performed fairly well. They were elected on a platform of no excuses, but upon taking office they were hit with the reality that the Council was in debt to the amount of almost $10 million.

Such reality caused many of the campaign visions to take a back seat and instead of the administration being able to move the city forward most of the effort had to be focused on getting the city back on track. With the assistance of friendly corporate citizens the Council was able to launch a successful beautification campaign. Roundabouts, speed bumps, floral attraction, bandstands and trash cans were among the new attractions across the city.

Though the media scrutiny they faced, in some part due to their own fault, was unmatched by administrations passed, their successes are reasons to celebrate. And for the 5th anniversary the Council is doing exactly that.

The week was started with a church service at the St. John’s Anglican Cathedral on Tuesday, March 1. On Wednesday, March 2, the Council held a street side appreciation ceremony near City Hall. The Mayor of Belize City, Her Worship Zenaida Moya-Flowers, took the opportunity to thank all who have supported the council over the years. Individuals and businesses were awarded with certificates of appreciation. The awardees contributed financially or volunteered time and skills. They included church ministers, artists, community organizers, government ministries, business institutions and media houses. The certificates read: “In acknowledgement of your invaluable contribution and recognition of your continued support and partnership in municipal development 2010/2011.” On Thursday, March 3, the Council will be organizing an Open Day inside the NICH Parking Lot on Regent Street.

The event is scheduled to run from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and everyone is encouraged to visit. Friday, March 4, will see the inauguration of a bandstand inside BTL Park. On Friday there will also be a fun day at the Bird’s Isle from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. There will be games and entertainment throughout the evening. 

                

-1 1 0 40 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 7 0 706 robots= author= 2905 Hutchy Wins Rural Central Convention hutchy-wins-rural-central-convention The United Democratic Party held a convention for residents of the Belize Rural Central to elect a Standard Bearer on Sunday, February 27. Hon. Michael Hutchinson was being challenged by Anthony Sankey. Polls opened at 9 a.m. and closed at 4 p.m.

When the votes were counted and reconciled, it was Hon. Michael Hutchinson who prevailed.

Sankey was gracious in defeat. He pledged his full support behind Hutchinson and said that he will work tirelessly to ensure that the United Democratic Party is victorious in Belize Rural Central at the next General Elections. Hon. Hutchinson said that he welcomes the endorsement of Anthony Sankey and plans to be more visible in the area. The result shows that the people are satisfied with his work, but perhaps, he needs to call the cameras out some more. -1 1 0 40 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 6 0 774 robots= author= 2906 March 7, Twenty Twelve march-7-twenty-twelve This week I was tempted to comment on the Flashpoint article which waged a vicious attack on the leader of the People’s United Party, and on the reactive rejoinders from the PUP caucuses at all four cardinal points of our country, the latter no doubt prompted to respond in a staged show of solidarity. But by now I guess the Belizean people are getting cloyed of this continuous squabbling within the PUP. Moreover, it’s been some time now since I have spoken about the happenings at the Orange Walk Town Council, and I know that some of my fellow Orange Walkeños who live in the City and Cayes appreciate being kept updated about their town. So I decided to be more positive this week and just talk about the journey to the next municipals, which are due March 7, 2012.

    When Phillip de la Fuente was elected as Mayor of OWT two years ago to this date, he and his UDP team made it abundantly clear that if the three PUP Councilors chose not to cooperate with him, they would be left behind. Initially a couple of these Councilors were content on running to CTV3 from time to time to create mischief, but later realized that this did nothing for their purpose. While more participation is still desired of them to move the Council’s program faster, these days they have at least settled into their role as being elected Councilors first, and PUP second.

  The fact of the matter is that Phillip has made significant strides in the development of OWT. During the first year of his leadership, he concentrated on servicing the huge level of debt incurred over the years by previous Councils. The Mayor settled about $200,000 in outstanding debt in 2009 alone, in addition to fulfilling the legal duties and responsibilities of the Town Council. 

  In 2010, the goal was to acquire as much heavy duty equipment as possible, so as to be prepared to autonomously offer the best of service to the town and its residents. During this period, the Council sourced a road grader, a backhoe, a vibrator/roller, a water truck, and two garbage compactor trucks. He also began to allow a team of employees to work weekends in the sanitation department to keep the downtown area clean. All the new equipment at the Council came at a price tag of over $220K.

  This year, 2011, Mayor de la Fuente has pledged to invest an additional $200K entirely in improving the town’s infrastructure. That is why we are seeing so many of the streets being leveled and repaired these days. Later this month some bitumen resurfacing will be undertaken, and this program will continue without pause for the rest of the year. The stage was set in the first two years, and now it’s time to move at the pace that the people have demanded of their Town Council.

  Although Phillip is not one to be patting his own shoulders, I asked if these monies were from grants or gifts to the OWTC and he told me that this was all Council’s revenue with prudent management. Other projects that are expected to come on stream from the World Bank will complement his efforts, he says, and when this happens, the development in OW will witness staggering leaps and bounds. The other question: is the rumor being spread that he won’t seek re-election on March 7, 2012 true? It’s simply not true. Philco will once again offer himself for the post of Mayor here in our town. He will certainly continue enjoying my support. -1 1 0 40 3/3/2011 19:49:50 64 Jamil Matar 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 19:49:50 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 5 0 878 robots= author= 2907 New bridge access road started new-bridge-access-road-started Work has commenced in the construction of a fourth bridge that will span the Haulover Creek in Belize City. In speaking with Minister of Works Anthony ‘Boots’ Martinez, he told the Guardian that preliminary work has commenced and it will entail the opening of an access road from the junction of Faber’s Road to the Haulover Creek. Minister Martinez explained that the road is being put in place to facilitate the work of actual construction of the bridge.

He added that the road will also serve as a secondary function where law enforcement personnel will be able to make their way into the area to address the situation of squatters who have moved into the area. -1 1 0 40 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 4 0 714 robots= author= 2908 No Good Choices no-good-choices The story told by Jamelia Hinds of being sold by her mother into domestic slavery is central to a case of human trafficking being pursued in a Californian court.  Karen Baptist, Jamelia’s mother, denies that she sold Jamelia, who was then age 11, and explains that she gave her daughter to an American woman who offered to provide her a better life than she could have in Belize.  We may never know if any money changed hands but it is certainly plausible that Ms. Baptist truly believed that she was acting in Jamelia’s best interests.  With ten children and no steady income Ms. Baptist had already been through the trauma of losing one daughter to an awful murder.  She also came from an older Belizean cultural tradition in which it was acceptable for poor families to send children to live with richer relatives or neighbours where they would have more opportunities.

      Another woman has also come forward to say that the American woman who took Jamelia also took her two young sons with a similar promise of giving them a better life.  She has heard nothing from them in the twelve years since they left.  Another family from a village in the south had an infant boy who needed expensive medical attention that was not available in Belize.  An American couple offered to take the child to the US and arrange for the treatment. To make the paperwork easier and to comply with insurance rules the couple claimed that they needed to legally adopt the child but promised to return him to his parents after the treatment.  Naturally, the parents agreed.  The treatment was successful but the American couple never returned the child to his parents or allowed any kind of contact. Attempts to pursue the case through the courts in the USA were prohibitively expensive.

      Look a little further and you will find many families who encourage their teenage daughters to entertain older “sugar daddies” in return for financial assistance for the child and/or the family.  They would not even recognise their actions as commercial sexual exploitation but that is the technical term for such transactions.

      Most people would agree that many of these families have made poor decisions but the problem for so many families is that they find themselves with so few or no good choices.  Parents generally want to do the best they can for their children but sometimes they are overwhelmed with the enormity of the job before them and their own lack of resources.  Naturally, predators chose victims who are disadvantaged in some way, victims who are intimidated and unlikely to complain to the authorities.

      There is no magic wand that can eliminate the poverty that traps parents in intolerable situations.  There are some services available to help them but there is never enough help to go around.  One thing we could be doing better is educating our people on sexual and reproductive health issues so that they will make better choices BEFORE they have ten children to provide for.  Women and men need to understand how they can and must take responsibility for their own sexual and reproductive health.  They must also have access to the services that will make it possible for every Belizean to have children by choice and not by chance.  The days when an ordinary family could support six or even ten children and ensure that each child receives sufficient loving attention and a good education is long past.  This is even more difficult when children are raised by a single parent or when both parents work long hours. 

      There are some large families that even today manage to balance their limited resources well but a few successful examples do not negate the despair of a majority of families who feel that they are living on a precipice and one false step will take them over the edge.  We have the tools at hand that can significantly decrease the number of such families by helping Belizeans to take control of their lives at an early stage.  Let us not decry the poor choices that some parents make if we are not doing everything we can to offer them better choices. -1 10 0 56 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 1 0 129 robots= author= 2909 30th Belmopan Cycling Classic is set for March 13 30th-belmopan-cycling-classic-is-set-for-march-13 The Belize Cycling Association will be holding its 30th Annual Belmopan Cycling Classic on Sunday March 13, 2011.
The Elite/Open category will commence at 8:00 am from in front of the Constitution Park in Belize City to the City of Belmopan around the Ring Road and then to Leslie’s Imports for the finish.

The Juniors/Youth categories will commence at 8:05 am in front of the Constitution Park in Belize City to Jaguar Paw and then onto Leslie’s Imports at Mile 2 on the Western Highway for the finish.

The Women and Masters categories 4 and 5 riders will also commence from in front of the Constitution Park in Belize City to Mile 26 and then onto Leslie’s Imports at Mile 2 for the finish. -1 1 0 41 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 8 0 766 robots= author= 2910 Belize City Primary Schools softball competition opens belize-city-primary-schools-softball-competition-opens
The 2010-2011 Belize City Primary Schools Softball Competition was officially opened on Monday, February 28, 2011, at Rogers Stadium the home of Softball in Belize by Mr. Jude Lizama, 1st Vice President of the Belize Softball Federation.

This year’s competition is seeing a total of 23 teams participating in both the female and male competitions. In the female category, there are 11 schools competing including Wesley Upper School, Buttonwood Bay Nazarene, Holy Redeemer, St. John Vianney, Muslim Community, Queen Square Anglican, St. Luke Methodist, and St. John’s Primary, Calvary Temple, St. Martin’s De Porres, and Salvation Army.

In the male competition, there are 12 schools competing. The competing schools are: Wesley Upper, Buttonwood Bay Nazarene, Holy Redeemer, and St. Mary’s School, Central Christian, Grace Primary, Queen Square Anglican, St. Luke Methodist, St. John’s Primary, Calvary Temple, St. Martin’s De Porres, and Salvation Army.

In the first game of the competition in girls’ action, Queen Square Anglican defeated St. Luke Methodist by the score of 19 to 5. The winning pitcher was Ashley Alarcon and the losing pitcher was Ishell West.

In the male game played, Queen Square Anglican also defeated St. Luke Methodist by the score of 24 to 2. The winning pitcher was Devin Parham and the losing pitcher was Jovan Lozano.

The competition continued on Tuesday, March 1, 2011, at Rogers Stadium with two more games on the schedule. In the female game played, Calvary Temple School defeated St. John’s Primary by the score of 7 to 1. The winning pitcher was Emily Gutierrez and the losing pitcher was Ianna Wagner.
In the male game, Calvary Temple also defeated St. John’s Primary by the score of 17 to 8. The winning pitcher was Randy Gutierrez and the losing pitcher was Glenford Reneau. -1 1 0 41 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 7 0 691 robots= author= 2911 Brandon Cattouse takes Saturday race brandon-cattouse-takes-saturday-race The Belize Cycling Association held its usual Saturday race on February 26, 2011 from Leslie’s Imports to Hattieville and then back to Leslie’s Imports. Some 46 riders started the 26 miles event in the Elite/Open category, where only three riders did not complete the course.

This week’s race was won by Brandon Cattouse of C-Ray Cycling Team in a time of 1:03:42. The second rider to cross the finish line was Byron Pope of Benny’s Megabytes, followed by Erwin Middleton of Team INDECO, followed by David Henderson also of Team INDECO, and then by Roque Matus of M&M Engineering Masters to round off the top five finishers.

The other finishers include Henry Moreira of Zamir Cycling Team, Devon Medwood of Clear the Land, Kelvin Tillett who is unattached, Shelton Graham also of Clear the Land, and Mateo Cruz of C-Ray Cycling.

In the junior/youth categories, 22 riders started the 26 miles event with only 21 completing the course. At the end of 1:12:25, it was Gian Zetina of Cayo Uprising Team, followed by Giovanni Lovell of Team INDECO, third place went to Ethan Neal of Twin Towns Cycling, fourth place went to Wasani Castro of Clear the Land, and fifth place went to Eldon Simmons of M&M Engineering.

The other top junior finishers include Oscar Qurious of Cayo Uprising Cycling, Melvin Cowo of Cayo High Road Cycling, Juan Umana also of Cayo High Road Cycling, Anfernee Young of Cayo High Road Cycling, and Zahir Figueroa of Cayo High Road Cycling.  -1 1 0 41 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 6 0 536 robots= author= 2912 Central Region Secondary Schools Softball Competition moves into playoff round central-region-secondary-schools-softball-competition-moves-into-playoff-round

The 2010-2011Central Region Secondary Schools Softball Competition entered its playoff round on Monday, February 28, 2011, with two games on the schedule.

In the female game played, Ladyville Technical High School defeated Nazarene High School, the number one seed, by the score of 11 to 5. The winning pitcher was Samantha Reyes and the losing pitcher was Amber Wade.

In the male game, Wesley College, the number one seed, advanced to the Grand Final when it defeated St. John’s College by the score of 7 to 2. The winning pitcher was Jermaine Madrill and the losing pitcher was Myric Marin.

The second semi-final games were played on Tuesday, March 1, 2011, in the female game, Wesley College eliminated Gwen Lizarraga High School by the score of 20 to 7. The winning pitcher was Melissa Williams.

In the male game it was Gwen Lizarraga High School over Excelsior High School.

The Grand Final is scheduled for Friday, March 4, at 4:30 pm at Rogers Stadium. -1 1 0 41 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 5 0 532 robots= author= 2913 Football Investigation Continues football-investigation-continues

March 2, 2011

The Ministry of the Public Service, Governance Improvement, Elections & Boundaries and Sports reminds the general public, and especially members of the football family, that the Sports Investigation Committee continues its work countrywide.

The Sports Investigation Committee is a special team appointed by Statutory Instrument 125 of 2010 in December, 2010 to review and establish the validity or otherwise of the appointment of the executives of the Football Federation of Belize (FFB) members, and the validity or otherwise of the FFB election of an Executive Committee held on the 18 December. It is also investigating the validity of the decision of the FFB to disallow nominations for election to the executive by one of its members the Belize Premier Football League (BPFL).

The Ministry is awaiting the report to be submitted by the Committee at the end of its commission. In the meantime the Ministry notes that it does not recognize the new FFB Executive elected in that December 18 election. Similarly noted is that no application has been received by the National Sports Council by the FFB for registration as a sporting organisation for 2011.

The Ministry will only recognize those sporting organisations that are duly registered with the National Sports Council as per the Sports Act Chapter 19. This clearly states that 3)“Every registered sporting organisation shall in the month of January in each year submit a list of the names and addresses of its office bearers to the Council” and 4) “ A sports organisation that has not been duly registered shall not be entitled to any of the privileges (Including use of equipment and facilities), concessions or exemptions granted to a registered sporting organisation and shall not be able to participate in any competitions or functions held under the auspices of the Council”.

Registered sporting organisations are reminded also that the Sports Act empowers the Minister to make regulations in respect of “the selection of national sports teams to represent Belize”. The Ministry, through the National Sports Council, stands ready to work with all sporting organisations that are in compliance with the Laws of Belize.

Press Release -1 1 0 41 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 4 0 544 robots= author= 2914 La Ruta Maya takes centre stage this holiday weekend la-ruta-maya-takes-centre-stage-this-holiday-weekend The 2011 Edition of the annual La Ruta Maya River Challenge takes centre stage this holiday weekend. The river challenge will cover the entire length of the Belize Old River and will commence on Thursday, March 4, 2011 at the foot of the Hawkesworth Bridge in San Ignacio Town, Cayo District and will conclude on Monday, March 7, at the Belcan Bridge in Belize City.

The La Ruta Maya River Challenge is competed in eight divisions; namely, male, female, mixed, masters, dory, intramural, pleasure craft and family adventure race for station prizes along the way and cash prizes at the end.

So far, some 85 teams have registered to compete in this year’s river challenge. The final amount of registered teams will be determined at the close of the Technical Meeting which is scheduled for just before the start of the race. -1 1 0 41 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 3 0 698 robots= author= 2915 Telemedia U-15 and U-17 basketball competition fast winding down telemedia-u-15-and-u-17-basketball-competition-fast-winding-down

The Belize District Basketball Association Belize Telemedia National U-15 and U-17 competition at the Belize City Centre is fast coming to an end.

The competition continued on Monday, February 28, 2011, in the U-15 competition game, Rising Stars defeated Dog Pound Boys by the score of 65 to 30. The top scorers for Rising Stars were Roderick Williams with 19 points and 10 rebounds, and Sydney Bradley with 11 points. Meanwhile, the top scorers for Dog Pound Boys were Dwight Gentle with 10 points and Kevin Lobo with 6 points and 7 rebounds.

In the U-17 game played, SJC Wildcats edged Hattieville Spo by the score of 39 to 38. The top scorers for the SJC Wildcats were Uhuru McKoy with 15 points and 7 rebounds, and Zane Morris with 11 points and 15 rebounds, while the top scorers for Hattieville were Faisal Ahmad with 14 points and 5 rebounds and Welton Franklin with 11 points and 8 rebounds.

The Telemedia U-15 and U-17 continued on Sunday, February 27, with five games on the schedule. In the first U-15 game played, Blazin Blazzaz defeated Truckers by the score of 51 to 26. The top scorers for Blazin Blazzaz were Rodney Morris with 22 points and 20 rebounds, and Dedric Ramclam with 10 points. Meanwhile, the top scorer for Truckers was Raheem Flowers with 12 points.

In the second U-15 game played, ACC Deacons defeated YMCA by the score of 50 to 20. The top scorers for the ACC Deacons were David Bennett with 14 points, Auburn Rivero with 11 points and 3 rebounds, and Alex O’Brian with 10 points and 12 rebounds, while the top scorer for the YMCA was Jovan Usher with 12 points.

The third game in the U-15 competition between the SJC Wildcats and Boom Celtics was won by the SJC Wildcats over the Boom Celtics via the default route.

In the first of two U-17 games played, Complex Admiral defeated Caye Caulker by the score of 85 to 25. The top scorers for the Complex Admiral team were Ryan Michael with 16 points and 4 rebounds, Akeem Watters also with 16 points and 15 rebounds, and Dion Roches with 11 points and 7 rebounds. For the Caye Caulker squad, the top scorers were Elmir Armana with 9 points and 5 rebounds, and Charles Hinks with 6 points and 6 rebounds.

In the final game of the day, Kruzzars blasted Seh Sorry by the score of 104 to 15. The top scorers for Kruzzars were Brian White with 25 points, Lincey Lopez with 23 points and 2 rebounds, and Tariq Middleton with 20 points and 6 rebounds, while the top scorer for Seh Sorry was Mandy Caliz with 8 points and 6 rebounds.

On Friday, February 25, in the U-15 game played, Belama Hittaz defeated Dog Pound Boys by the score of 37 to 25. The top scorers for Belama Hittaz were Malcolm Nuñez with 10 points and 6 rebounds, and Raheem Staine with 9 points and 12 rebounds. For the Dog Pound Boys, the top scorers were Kevin Lobo with 6 points and 16 rebounds, and Damiam Leslie with 5 points and 6 rebounds.

In the U-17 game played, ACC Deacons defeated All Star Baller by the score of 78 to 74. The top scorers for the ACC Deacons were Terrique Gabb with 19 points and 6 rebounds, Douglas Valley with 14 points and 10 rebounds, and Jovannie Martinez also with 14 points and 2 rebounds, while the top scorers for All Star Baller were Akeem Stephenson with 19 points and 12 rebounds, Brandon Harris with 18 points, and Keiron Moss with 17 points.
On Wednesday, February 23, 2011, in the U-15 game played, Yahbrah defeated SJC Wildcats by the score of 45 to 37. The top scorers for Yahbrah were Devin Parham with 14 points and Clency Lopez with 13 points. Meanwhile, the top scorers for SJC Wildcats were Malik Francisco with 13 points and K’lon Augustus with 12 points and 8 rebounds.

In the U-17 game it was Complex Admiral winning over Ladyville by the score of 97 to 78. The top scorers for complex Admiral were Kadeem Olivera with 24 points and 4 rebounds, Akeem Watters also with 24 points and 20 rebounds, and Dion Roches with 18 points and 12 rebounds. Meanwhile, the top scorers for Ladyville were Darren Longsworth with 37 points and 7 rebounds, and Alex Gordon with 21 points and 5 rebounds.

-1 1 0 41 3/3/2011 06:00:00 62 0/0/0000 00:00:00 0 0 0/0/0000 00:00:00 3/3/2011 06:00:00 0/0/0000 00:00:00 show_title= link_titles= show_intro= show_section= link_section= show_category= link_category= show_vote= show_author= show_create_date= show_modify_date= show_pdf_icon= show_print_icon= show_email_icon= language= keyref= readmore= 1 0 2 0 264 robots= author= 2916 Belize Bank puts depositors’ money at risk belize-bank-puts-depositors-money-at-risk-

If there is one mantra that the United Democratic Party has held almost sacred is the right of the Belizean citizenry to know the workings of government, transparency being the order of the day for the UDP. So much this means to the UDP government that almost immediately upon taking office in May of 2008 the government introduced the Freedom of Information Act which prohibits almost all government documents from being secret. While that is for government documents, the same cannot be said for documents relating to private companies and court rulings.

The Guardian has been attempting for the past couple of weeks to secure affidavits that have been lodged at the Supreme Court registry by the Belize Bank against the Central Bank of Belize; however, a court injunction filed by the Belize Bank is preventing this newspaper or any other media entity access to the documents. From what we have been able to gather on the case, the Central Bank of Belize as the banking regulatory institution in the country had issued directives to the Belize Bank to discontinue a practice known as Parallel Banking. By our research on the issue, Parallel Banking is banks which are licensed in different jurisdictions and have the same owner(s) and or beneficiaries sharing management and business. Based on our research these parallel arrangements are established for various reasons including “to take advantage of different tax arrangements; to avoid legal restrictions in some countries on the ownership of foreign subsidiaries by domestic banks; or to diversify risk outside countries that are considered economically or politically unstable. In some cases, the motivation may be an attempt to evade regulatory constraints or consolidated supervision from the home country. –Working Group on Cross-border Banking.

Based on our information, under the People’s United Party it was a free for all for the Belize Bank conducting parallel banking transactions with a subsidiary in the Turks and Caicos; however, that came to an end when the bank in Turks and Caicos fell into trouble with the regulator in that jurisdiction. By our information, the Central Bank of Belize under the PUP gave the Belize Bank carte blanche to conduct any parallel transaction between Belize and Turks and Caicos.

Here is where the situation has reached the Supreme Court. The Belize Bank has taken the Central Bank to the court claiming that it does not have the authority to order the parallel banking to stop. More than that, the Belize Bank asked the case’s presiding judge, Justice Oswell Legall, for an injunction to prevent anyone from accessing affidavits that have been lodged in the case. Justice Legall issued the injunction and now no one outside those dealing with the case has access to the legal paperwork.

But the importance of the case is one that bears watching especially because of the financial implications that parallel banking has on the Belize Bank. Under its regulatory power the Central Bank of Belize instructed the Belize Bank to discontinue the practice and in particular to bring back what are called L.E.G. (Luke Espat Group) loans to Belize. However, the Belize Bank is refusing to comply with the instructions. The so called L.E.G. loans are quite an impressive amount. By our information the loans amount to as much as 190 million dollars and included in the portfolio are assets like the Port of Belize, Renaissance Tower, Croc Land, Indeco and other companies.  The loans to L.EG. were split into two with the performing companies such as the Port and Renaissance being bought by a company called Private Investment Limited (PIL) (by our reckoning this is an Ashcroft affiliated company). These amounted to some 150 million dollars. The non-performing companies like Indeco and Croc Land and others amounting to some 40 million dollars were left with the Belize Bank. Now the Central Bank is saying the sale has to be reversed and the Belize Bank is resisting.

The instructions by the Central Bank would mean that the Belize Bank would have to re-purchase the 150 million dollar debt forcing the bank to come up with some serious amount of cash and dipping the bank’s reserves considerably.

But how it all came to this, where a single entity was allowed to rack up a debt of 150 million dollars is anyone’s guess. Those at the helm of the bank have some serious questions to answer and even more, as we’ve been reporting all along, this 150 million dollar debt is not the only one that the Belize Bank has to contend with. There are others of similar magnitude which we’ve exposed in previous articles, some of which have similarly been involved in parallel banking but which the Central Bank is yet to look into. For the time being however, the eye is on the L.E.G. loans and these will be crystallized when the substantive case begins on March 23.