Belize Times March 31, 2013

31 MAR SCAN HERE

2013

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The Belize Times THE BELIZE TIMES

Established 1957

31 MAR 2013

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ISSUE NO: 4838

The Truth Shall Make You Free

www.belizetimes.bz

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$1.00

NO to Guatemala!

PUP leader stands up for Belize Belize City, March 26th, 2013 Leader of the Opposition Hon. Francis Fonseca was decisive on Monday evening, when he warned the Barrow Administration that if it was going to

“bend backward” for Guatemala in the face of that neighbouring country’s latest stunt over the Belize-Guatemala differendum, the PUP wants no part of it.

In a meeting between Belize’s

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Chief Executive Officer Alexis Rosado and Guatemala’s Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs held last weekend (which was snubbed by Guatemala’s Foreign Minister Luis Fernan-

Another UDP crony collects How many unlawful land grab cases are there, Mr. Minister??!!

Belize City, March 28, 2013 Documents obtained by the BELIZE TIMES confirms that more UDP cronies are collecting thousands of dollars belonging to taxpayers as a result of unlawful land grabs carried out by the Ministry of Lands under Deputy Prime Minister

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Espats will join UDP ranks Beware Herman Longsworth, Lee Mark Chang!

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PUP Leader Hon. Francis Fonseca flanked

by Party Officials at Monday’s press conference at the PUP headquarters

do Carrera), Guatemala had informed that it had unilaterally decided to abandon the December 2008 commitment to hold simultaneous referendums on

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1 yr. old baby

abducted in Corozal!

Half-a-million-dollar ransom demanded

Gaspar Vega must give an account of the misdeeds in his Ministry

Corozal Town, March 25, 2013 A one year old child was returned to her parents last night during a rescue operation following a frightening abduction that took place on Sunday.

Information is sketchy but the BELIZE TIMES under-

stands that the one year old baby was taken away from her mother during a kidnapping carried out by a group of masked men on Sunday night. The mother was forced to bring the vehicle to a sudden stop when the windshield glass was suddenly shattered.

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FOLLOW US! on the social media

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Of this and that…

Fishers of money Everyone wants fish. We need a good piece of Jack or red snapper.

Cross bun taste better with fish. It is this way from befo time.

Fish is usually $4 a pound. Sorry if you shop at Santi expensive supermarket. You will pay lots more. Better you buy it by Red House. It is reasonable.

To clean it is separate. Shilling for a bag. Every one must eat.

Fishermen are smart. They will “come up”. Inflation. Supply and Demand. Call it whatever. Just be prepared to pay. Pay $8 a pound.

The story of Easter is the story of Jesus. Jesus had a lot of fisherman friend. With prices like these you must understand why they betray him.

These prices for fish are demonic.

The price of fish is more than 30 pieces of silver.

Unu ruff, bredda.

Cancer Cure Cancer is a big thing. It is everywhere. It is taking out a lot of our people.

Treatment is expensive. It rarely works. People die.

The Bible talks about it. It says my people die from lack of knowledge.

This is true.

There is a cure. It goes easy here.

It is cheap.

It tastes good. It is not like serosi.

It is not like cauliflower.

Sour Sop is the cure. Belizeans take this fruit for granted. The Sour Sop is the fruit from the graviola tree.

It is 10,000 times stronger at killing cancer than Chemo. It is a miraculous natural cancer cell killer.

Scientists have hidden this. They have been trying to make a synthetic version. They want to make profit. They are not interested in healing. They want mullah.

Patrick Jones Patrick Jones is big. He is the king of Belize social media. Call him Mr. Facebook.

He is a giant. He has 12,029 followers. That is more than three UDP Ministers combined.

He is bigger than his boss. Love

LOCAL

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THE BELIZE TIMES

FM has 1,642 followers.

Patrick is a superstar. He is sponsored by Smart. Big! Patrick is making news rooms obsolete. Nuff respect.

There is a rumor. It is going around. The rumor is that Patrick was “released” from Love FM. It was for something bogus. Something about holiday. Is this true?

They should rethink this. Technology wicked nuh true.

have won by five goals.

This is a different team. We played sloppy. We only drew the game for one reason. The Trini team was talentless.

Sorry Charlie. You are a swell guy and all. You are a Hall of Fame goalie. But I blame you. You are no coach.

There were no adjustments made. The team looked unprepared. We did not exploit any of T&T’s weaknesses. They had a lot.

The players were the same. The only difference was the coach.

We will be embarrassed in the Gold Cup. We will be shamed with 7 nils. If we do not fix this team. Get a coach. A real coach.

Kill BIL

Exterminator Father dead Joe Wieder was a fitness icon. He brought us Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Joe died on Saturday.

He is responsible for our muscle heads. The Weider empire gave us gym equipment and supplements.

He owned a lot of these hulk magazines. The ones like Muscle and Fitness and Men’s Fitness. Even the chick ones like Shape and Fit Pregnancy.

Rogers Stadium Gym, Princess Gym and Body 2000 should close for a half day. Just out of respect.

27 Game winning streak The Miami Heat are kings of basketball. They have a player called the King.

He is Lebron James. Lots of Belizean fathers will name their sons Lebron.

The team is chancey. They have like ten all stars. And that is on the bench.

Hate them or not. They demand respect. They have won 27 games in a row. Wah wow. This is hard to do.

Respect to the idea. Respect to perfection. Respect to hard work. Respect to overcoming. Respect to success.

Just respect unu self. Lose before you get to 32. Leave the Lakers record of 33.

Respect.

Soca Jaguars Belize let me down. I love the national football team. WWW is sick.

Deon heights of vibe. Sell off. You big.

I nuh fraid fi talk dis truth. We sucked in that Trinidad vs. Belize friendly match.

The Trinidad football team should have gotten a beating. They should have taken a five goal loss. The Belize team that came in fourth Copa Centroamericana 2013 would have won. They would

The UDP are at it. It is a confusing thing.

They formed a private company.

It is called Belize Infrastructure Limited. BIL for short. It is made up of UDP politicians. UDP worshipers. Of course Mark is getting his cut.

Alan Sharpe said he did not even know.

This is a hustle. Wickedness in high and low places.

There is no need for Ministry of Works. Anymore. This is a great idea.

Maybe we should form a company for all government departments. One for the Judiciary. One for the Ministry of Finance. One for Sedi and Ministry of Foreign Affairs. One for Gapi and Lands.

Weh kinda foolishniss dis?

28 Mar

Exchange rate of One Belize Dollar

United States (USD): $ 0.5047

29 Mar

have told us that.

Post mortems are becoming like weather news. Every day is light chop to choppy. Small craft warning in effect.

Come on. We have to do better than that.

Chuuuups.

Cross Country This is high time for sports. Belize just played Trinidad in football. There was a draw.

Cycling is next. There will be foreigners. There can be no draw.

Cruffy will bex. But the Choto boy will not win. Shane will not win. Marlon will not win.

This thing is a science. Belize has to get with the formula. Gone are the days of Kenrick Holiday. And Parks.

Wishing no wah help we. Throwing bottles at foreigners nuh wah help we.

Sports is not luck anymore. It is science.

Belize still di use sun dials fi tell time in sports.

Just saying, braa. The truth is not an offense.

Super friend Easter message: Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. - 1 Peter 1:3

Unholy Union Look like the Teachers Union got punked. Barrow jokey their leaders.

You should have struck when the iron was hot. Sorry fi unu now.

Unu haffu burn some tire now. Or some candle.

Dr. Estradabran???

A policeman is found dead in the river. The New River. This is in Rambo Town. Suga City.

His name is Antonio Chan. He was a constable.

We wanted to know how he died.

Who was responsible.

A post mortem was done.

We still do not know if it was murder. The reporter had more details. The reporter had a guess whether it was foul play.

All the forensic report said was the usual. Every body who is in water dead from the same thing asphyxia due to drowning. Any Tom, Dick or Harry could

THE BELIZE TIMES serving Belize since 1957 as the longest continuous newspaper.

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

Alberto Vellos LAYOUT/GRAPHIC ARTIST

Chris Williams OFFICE ASSISTANT

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

editortimes@yahoo.com

weather

27 Mar

2013

30 Mar

Barbados Eastern Caribbean (BBD): $ 1.0098 (XCD):$ 1.3642

26 Mar 31 Mar

Euro(EUR) : $ 0.3925

27 Mar 6 Feb 1 Apr

Sterling Pound Guatemala Quetzal CANADIAN DOLLAR CHINESE YUAN Trinidadian (TTD) INDIAN RUPEE (GBP): $ 0.3330 (GTQ): $ 3.9335 (CAD): $ 0.5130 (CNY): $ 3.1347 : $ 3.2397 (INR): $ 27.462

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Another UDP crony collects Continued from page 1

Gaspar Vega.

The latest UDP known to have benefitted is Rosita Aragon, the sister in law of former UDP Minister Elodio Aragon, who was paid $148,000 as “compensation” for a parcel of land which was taken away from its rightful owner and sold to her wrongfully.

The document obtained by the BELIZE TIMES is a Supreme Court Order for Claim No. 188 of 2010, in which the Ministry of Natural Resources agrees to pay Rosita Aragon $148,000 to “extinguish or withhold” legal proceedings against them.

The case involves parcel 1-6-1820, Block 1, Consejo Road South East Registration Section of Corozal, which was taken from its owner, and sold to Aragon, reportedly for a pittance. Similar land grabs in the area were sold to other UDP cronies for as little as $1,500.

The BELIZE TIMES will provide more details on these, next week.

After the Court found that the land grab was illegal and ordered the return

Minors rob Councilor Roger Espejo of $50 fashion chain

Belize City, March 20, 2013 Crime affects everyone, and UDP Councillor Roger Espejo just found that out in real terms when he was robbed by a group of minors.

35 year old Espejo told Police that he was hanging out on Newtown Barracks when he was approached by a dark-complexioned, slim built male person about 5’6” with short hair and a fair-complexioned, slim built male person with short hair who was wearing a dark in color T shirt and short pants.

Espejo said that the dark-complexioned male had one of his hands under his shirt and when he stated “Run whe yu got”, the Councillor grew fearful. The robber took away Espejo’s fashion chain that had a steel oval-shaped medal, valued at $50.

The robbers got away, but not too far as they were apprehended.

Police say the duo are minors and they have been charged for the crime of Robbery and Conspiracy to Commit Robbery. The Police are seeking a third person in this investigation.

of the land, the Ministry saved face by agreeing to “compendate” Aragon.

Aragon, who does not even reside in Belize, was most willing to accept the offer. Remember, this is for land which Aragon obtained unlawfully.

This case is similar to that of Orange Walk UDP crony, Derrick Gillett, who was compensated $140,000 for land given illegally.

It is also similar to the case involving other Orange Walk UDPs including the Deputy PM’s son’s girlfriend, Dominique Gomez, who received title from her father-in-law to

acres of land within a designated reserve in the Placencia lagoon. And also Dorian Pakeman, who is employed at the Government Press Office, Bertram Brown and Douglas Usher were award-

ed compensation after the land sold to them for a small amount was actually considered protected land. The Ministry of Land then offered a much larger sum to them.

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Shame the Devil

Taking Belizeans for Stock (Part II)

s we said in these pages last week, the Easter is upon us and that means sun, smiles, spirits and swimming. It may be coincidence that the budget bill and fiscal year all hide themselves behind the festive spirit of Easter but the importance of deconstructing the numbers that were thrown around in the House of Representative on March 21 and 22, cannot put on a swim suit, grab a rum and coke and hit the banks of the Belize River.

As we have said, three hundred and fifty thousand Belizeans live with these figures for the full three hundred and sixty five days of the year. Belizeans are hardworking people and as such, no one will point a finger when we take off our steel toe boots and let some air between our toes. Life in Belize, after all, has become a task and a gamble just to stay alive.

Our energies are evaporated, we already have to deal with UNIBAM, Off-shore drilling, GMO, nationalizations, compromis, ICJ’s, OAS’s and Guatemala’s taunting. These, mind you, are only a short list of the issues of substance that dominate intellectual conversations and honest political thought.

The list of nuisance issues and transparent lies which burn at the Belizean public’s eyes are too depressing to even give any consorted denunciations. The land scandals, government antagonism, ministerial arrogance, nepotism, victimizations, the “Sedi curse” and astronomical wastage drain us. Tempted as we may be to chalk these up to the nature of the evil that is a “politician” especially when that beast gets into Government and brandishes absolute power, it is more a reflection of the lack of integrity and bankruptcy of competence, which haunts this UDP administration.

This second term of the UDP will be recorded and characterized by history as a countdown to an inevitable exit in the next national elections. Desperation and the inescapable eventuality of the UDP defeat is the theme of every action of the Government.

Needless to say that this is catastrophically bad for the country which euphemistically boasts “developing nation status” geo-politically, “at risk” sociologically and “frail to vulnerably dependent status” economically.

It is for this economic designation that the importance of the budget figures, which were waltzed through the Senate without a dent, must be over analyzed to a fault.

The impressive observations, pleadings and whistleblowing of the Opposition must be applauded. There was a different feel to the debates this go round from the Opposition side, but we hope to delve into a political postmortem of the performances in a subsequent piece, save to say that the Leader of Opposition had his swag “tun up”, way up.

Rather, at this juncture, the economic critique of the debate will be our focus as we attend mass for the Holy week and thank God for the mercy, humility, love and sacrifice he has saturated us with. This is the story of Easter, which is a story of humility, sacrifice, love and truth.

Excuse our preaching but there was a moral and spiritual deficit of mankind, which was measured in eternity and through His divine leadership of example, God decided to face the reality that He had to come down and show us truth.

This Biblical parable of leadership was lost on the UDP administration in their presentation of the budget. The truth escapes

them and we are left in a place where we must pay attention to what they have not said.

It remains a fat lie that there is 5.3% real growth in our economy; in fact, the truth is that our economic outlook is not flattering. The problem with the lies that the UDP are telling us is that, to borrow an accounting term, the figures will never balance.

For convenience and audience, the UDP blog irreconcilable figures, just ask the teachers, Trade Unions, Chamber of Commerce and the Police Association.

But the actual data from the Central Bank, which is much more restrained to the harnesses of international financial reliability, betray the happy days-image of the numbers presented.

Take for example the agricultural sector, which has been projected to drop from 15% to 1.8% next year. Yet there are no policy adjustments or fiscal adjustments to buffer this expected dip.

The manufacturing industries are even worse as next year, economic experts project a slide into the negatives with -2.4% growth. Oil revenues, which as a Government the UDP have hung all their hats on, will decline by a whopping 10%.

The bad news that they have tried to hide from us, has been cautioned by the Opposition whose research has shown that even the tourism sector, which feeds over 30% of our population, either directly or indirectly, will experience a sharp downturn from 10% to 4.5%. For the hair braider, artisan or tour guide operator this translates into more than a fifty percentage drop in income and earnings.

Simply put, if you were hustling thirty dollars in tips, next fiscal year expect fourteen bucks.

It is important to note that according to the Central Bank and Ministry of Finance, even the 2.7% estimated for FY2013-14 is considered a very “high risk projection”. This means that it is a “best case scenario” guess.

It is like making a statement with our fingers crossed hoping absolutely nothing goes wrong. We understand that for this UDP administration to get 2.7% growth, which is unlikely, global growth would have to be around 3.5% when even now it hovers now at a high of 3%.

We have to call a spade a spade and warn the people of this country not be comforted with this shameful lie which is easily to see through.

A leading economist tried to simplify the obscene absurdity of Barrow’s budget when he pointed us to the fact that one of the leading economic indicators is construction and housing. In this area we will see a sharp deceleration and decline in construction. Housing is already crumbling. Inflation he notes will rear its ugly head.

Poor teachers should note that inflation will rise from 1.5% to a staggering 2.5%, which is a near 100% increase.

The drop in our export earnings will definitely mean unemployment and less foreign exchange. This is crucial as Belize is an import-based economy. Foreign exchange is the lifeblood of how we live.

There are no new ideas in this budget, there is no hope; there is only hustle. A “BIL” of lies. The UDP continues to steal and store grain for their upcoming time in Opposition. We must be on guard.

Easter is a time of good news and resurrection but for the news to be positive there must be honesty, humility and repentance. The UDP ain’t about to do that, Jack.

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NO to Guatemala!

Continued from page 1

October 6th of this year.

The emissary further informed that Guatemala is giving Belize two options. Option 1 is to amend its Referendum Act to reduce the 60% threshold needed for a referendum to be binding and Option 2 is for Belize to hold its own referendum on October 6th, and if the popular vote is for Yes, Guatemala will then hold theirs at a later date.

Belize’s Foreign Minister Sedi Elrington seemed unperturbed by Guatemala’s erratic moving of the goal post and too accommodating and compromised when he uttered that ““Belize is prepared to accommodate whatever suggestion is coming from the Guatemalans.”

But today, the Opposition PUP said “absolutely not” to any kind of accommodation to Guatemala.

“The PUP rejects any proposal which violates the spirit and letter of the Special Agreement signed by Belize and Guatemala in December 2008. Neither option proposed by Guatemala is acceptable. Guatemala’s latest proposals raise serious concerns about its good faith in finding a just and definitive solution of this longstanding claim.

The PUP does not support the holding of any unilateral referendum on October 6, 2013, or on any other date. We do not support the amendment of our national law to reduce our threshold participation in referenda, simply to accommodate Guatemala,” declared Opposition leader.

Danger ahead - Guatemala Hon. Francis expressed concern about Guatemala’s attitude during the process. It was unclear, he said, whether Guatemala was truly committed to the agreement they had signed with Foreign Minister Sedi Elrington.

“It’s not my view that the Guatemalans want to go to the ICJ; it’s not clear. In fact, their proposals would suggest to me that they have no interest in going to the ICJ any longer…that must be of concern to us as Belizeans,” he said.

He added that Guatemala’s “changing positions” have placed the entire exercise in jeopardy.

Danger ahead – Foreign Minister In the face of Guatemala’s bullying and the recent diplomatic crisis, Foreign Minister Sedi Elrington found it important to spend time defending his stance, or as he put it, “educating” Belizeans on why he continues to call Belize’s border

with Guatemala “ARTIFICIAL”. He did this last week Thursday when he informed the public, the Opposition and even his UDP counterparts including the Prime Minister at the start of the House of Representatives debate of the 2013-2014 Budget, of Guatemala’s latest position.

According to Sedi, he has been publicly mocked and called “Mr. Artificial” on the streets of Belize City.

Opposition Leader Hon. Fonseca spared mocking words for the Foreign Minister, but he did indicate his disapproval.

“I believe he has done a grave disservice to the nation of Be-

lize and to the people of Belize.

He has made a lot of offhanded comments that I believe have not served Belize’s national interest.

And I think the overall handling of this entire matter by the Government of Belize and by his ministry in particular leaves a lot to be desired. I think he has been out of touch with the Belizean people on this matter for a very long time and that has not serve Belize’s interest well,” stated the Opposition Leader.

The PUP leader called on Prime Minister Dean Barrow to get it right.

“The PUP calls on the Government of Belize to remain resolute

in maintaining national and international support for our inalienable right to self-determination with full territorial integrity,” said Hon. Francis.

The Opposition will be waiting to find out what the Government’s position is following today’s Cabinet meeting in Belmopan. The PUP Leader said that if the Barrow Administration chooses to acquiesce to any of Guatemala’s demands, the PUP will remove itself from the process. The Opposition currently has a representative on the Belize-Guatemala negotiation team as well as a representative on the Referendum Commission.

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Orange Walk Town Moving Forward

Happy Easter From the Orange Walk Town Council

31 MAR

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Traitor vs. Teacher Belize City, March 25, 2013 Aside from the fact that both these words start with the letter “t” and end in the letter “r”, there aren’t many things that Traitors and Teachers have in common.

Teachers are selfless, caring, nurturing, dedicated and committed to providing students with the knowledge and skills to become successful in their lives; successful, not just in terms of obtaining a good job, but also in becoming honest and hardworking members of society.

A Traitor on the other hand is cold, calculating, selfish and surgical in his movements, always strategizing a way to outwit and outmatch his victims, with no remorse and no regrets for the consequences that flow therefrom.

Last week Dean Barrow presented our nation’s budget, an occasion which presented teachers with an opportunity to see with their very own eyes the real difference between a Traitor and a Teacher. That difference can be summed up in two simple words: political value.

As anticipated, there was absolutely nothing in this year’s budget for teachers. The only thing that Barrow gave them is an empty, stale, no-good promise that will keep teachers marginalized, stifled and suffering for yet another year.

The Traitor on the other hand, was rewarded quite handsomely in Barrow’s budget, not because of his brilliance

(since he dropped out of college) but because of his political value to the Prime Minister. You see, in Dean Barrow’s mind, teachers did not help him to

win the 2012 general elections, a Shark Despot did. Because of his extremely narrow victory, Barrow feels indebted to the Shark, and has not for one second considered that teachers, nurses, police officers and other public officers are the ones who placed him on his throne.

For Dean Barrow, a teacher’s political value is only valid for one day – election

09 9 day. It does not matter that our teachers have PhD’s and Master’s Degrees and give their all in laying the building blocks for the future of our nation.

For Barrow and the UDP, the formula is quite simple: get traitors on their side, win the election and then reward the traitors for playing their part in deContinued on page 31

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Espats will join UDP ranks Belize City, March 25, 2013 Mark Espat is a full blown UDP. Has always been. He acts like them and thinks like them. How else can one explain his narcissism to the nth degree and serial backstabbing nature? To us it came as no surprise that Michael Finnegan has called out Espat, twice, making it known that it’s ok for him to come out of the closet and declare his UDP-ness.

But what was Finnegan talking about? Espat joined their ranks the day he publicly accepted to become a UDP Ambassador. Dean Barrow pretended that Espat was doing some generous service for the people and country, until we later learnt that aside from the Ambassador post Espat had formed a company named Hall Mark and was charging the Government $20,000 a month. That’s the UDP way of self-enrichment.

Espat came out of the closet long ago. He even bald his head and wears bright red colours at UDP events. Now he is in bed, politically speaking, along with the likes of Doug Singh, the former UDP Chairman and his throng of losers.

So was Finnegan just making noise?

Yes, he was! The real question is: were the right persons listening? Finnegan is a senior member of the UDP. For him to call out Mark Espat publicly, is the same as Barrow calling Espat publicly.

Since Finnegan wants Espat on that side of the House, can he say whose seat will he occupy?

Is it the Albert constituency?

Bench-warmer Herman Longsworth was seen very uncomfortable, almost constipated with anger, as Finnegan said Mark Espat will soon run for the UDP. But that’s not all. Finnegan said he wants the entire prodigal Espat clan in their nest, and that means opening the doors for former PUP Jorge Espat too. So, where does Finnegan fantasize Jorge will sit? Freetown? Does this mean they no longer have any interest in Lee Mark Chang after the tons of money he invested in the UDP? What does also mean for the leadership of the UDP. Was Faber listening

1 yr. old baby abducted in Corozal!

Continued from page 1 The parents of the baby are wellknown in Corozal. They own a business in the Commercial Free Zone.

The BELIZE TIMES understands that since Sunday night, the kidnappers contacted the parents and demanded half a million dollars for the return of the child. They also warned that if the abduction was made public, it would place the child’s life at risk.

Last night however, the Police carried out a carefully planned operation to rescue the child. The BELIZE TIMES will follow this case closely and will make a updated report.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Lee Mark Chang

Herman Longsworth

2013

as Finnegan said that the UDP is opening its doors to a pack of wolves hungry for money and power? Is having Vega not enough?

Barrow himself has done everything possible to prop up Mark Espat. He was named special Ambassador, appointed Superbond “Team Leader” over all Cabinet Ministers, and then a special advisor for the Prime Minister.

Espat was even seen at the Cabinet table next to the Prime Minister during the meeting with the Unions. Now he is their Debt Management Leader We agree with Finnegan. Espat should stop being so cagey and declare himself a UDP. Everyone knows who he is and what he is all about now. The emperor has been stripped naked.

Belizean voters, especially the Albert voters who are now suffering under the UDP, and the thousands, who have had to bear the pain brought on by this incompetent and cold-hearted Government will be glad when judgment day comes. Espat, you are a Marked man.

During our first year in office your Dangriga Town Council realized some significant achievement on your behalf with limited resources.

We pledge to do more in our second year.

DISTRIBUTION OF BOOKS

CHILDREN CHRISTMAS PARTY

MOBILE CLINIC

VISIT OF THE AMBASSADOR OF NIGERIA TO DANGRIGA

On behalf of the Councillors and the staff of the Dangriga Town Council I wish you and your family a

Safe and blessed Easter holiday

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THE BELIZE TIMES

2013

GMO SEEDS - ARE THEY HERE? This spells bad news and industrial blackmail Contributed The visiting Israeli Ambassador to Belize recently let the cat out of the bag when he publicly announced that his government is donating “advanced seeds” to Belizean farmers.

Are these “advanced seeds” Genetically Modified Organisms? As far as we know, it remains official policy not to allow the importation of GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms) such as corn, rice, other grain seeds and seeds for other food crops into Belize. This has been a touchy issue over the years. Nobody in government wants to talk about it. However, an occasional slip of the tongue and even body language, have provided hints of unease and even a possible cover-up.

There is very good reason to suspect that there is a big racket taking place that involves certain high-ranking officials in the Ministry of Ag-

riculture, including officials of the Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA).

Certain Customs officials have been bribed to turn a blind eye. This conclusion has been from the cumulative subtle discussions with certain large grain farmers (mainly the

Mennonites), small farmers, environmentalists and the reaction of certain officials in the Ministry of Agriculture. Has the government, through the Cabinet, given tacit approval for the importation of GMOs? This very simple and straightforward question gets a garbled and unspecific reply, al-

most like speaking in tongues. Translated, this would imply a yes! It means that the government’s decision to import GMOs is unofficially official, unless the gift from the Israelis was an exception but one to justify opening the flood gates.

What else would “advanced seeds” be and why would the Barrow Administration’s new-found partner, Israel, be donating these GMOs to Belizean farmers if it was not consistent with an unspoken government policy?

The decision by the government, or the unchecked corruption with pay-offs to top officials in the Ministry of Agriculture, displays a callous disregard for a cultural tradition of our small and subsistence farmers who save seeds from their previous crops for the next year’s cycle.

Then again, this is tantamount to a form of blackmail to get small farmers hooked on these GMOs. This would mean that, having fallen for them, they will not be able to recycle some of their seeds as GMOs are not replantable. They will become hooked on these GMOs as seeds and will be forced to continue to buy GMO seeds as their traditional crops disappear. This will eventually lead to the Continued on page 18

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THE BELIZE TIMESTIMES THE BELIZE

2013

TOPMODEL 13

ENTERTAINMENT

NEWS

Grisel

Rosseli

Carballo On March 16th, 2013, Orange Walk’s Grisel Rosseli Carballo became the first Belizean to win the title of Miss Diosa Maya Internacional 2013-2014, which was held at the Olimpo Cultural Center in Merida City.

Carballo also won best costume in a competition leading to the final pageant.

“I introduced myself in the three languages I know which is Maya, Spanish and English. In another segment I introduced my costume. We won best costume and it was an elaborate and extravagant one; portraying a Maya warrior,” said Carballo. The cultural costume was designed by Belizean Gabriel Garcia and assistant Esbin Estrada.

The organizer of La Diosa Maya Internacional Organization, Manuel Blanco, has announced that since the pageant is rotated in different countries, and because Carballo won, the next event is expected to be hosted in Orange Walk Town.

Photo: Old Belize Adventure and Marina

wins 2013 Miss Diosa Maya Internacional

Shayanne

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Height: 5’ 0” Career Plan: Nurse Sign: Sagittarius Favourite Food: Pasta

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14 SPORTS

THE BELIZE THE BELIZE TIMES TIMES

31 MAR

2013

Belize holds Soca Warriors to 0-0 Belize improves to 128th in FIFA-ranking Belize City, March 24, 2013 FIFA has upped Belize’s ranking in the world from 132nd to 128th, after the Belize “Jaguars” held Trinidad & Tobago “Soca Warriors” to a nil-zip draw for a second time in 2 encounters.

Over 3,500 fans bought filled up FFB stadium in Belmopan on Saturday night, March 23rd to support the international friendly match, as the two teams prepare for the July 2013 Gold Cup to be played in the U.S.A. Despite the Soca Warrior’s starting four of their 2006 World Cup players for

the first time in over three years, the visiting team was unable to execute an effective offensive play.

Team captain Densill Theobald and Christopher Berchall were creating the plays at midfield and Keon Daniel tried to work the ball up the sidelines, but they had to contend with Belize’s midfielders Evan Mariano, Floyd Jones and Everald Trapp, while Dalton Eiley held down the defense with the help of Ian Gaynair, Tyrone Pandy and Trevor “Burger” Lennon.

Even so Cornell Glen got off a shot that mercifully was

wide of the sticks and Kenwyne Jones’ header in the 15th minute did not have enough power to give Belize’s premier goalie Woodrow West any trouble.

Belize’s 3-pronged offensive consisted of Deon Macaulay, Danny Jimenez and Harrison “Kafu” Roches.

Jimenez and Macaulay got some shots on the visitors’ goal but nothing the Trinidad goalie Cleon John couldn’t handle.

An altercation between Tyrone Pandy

Cayo’s Zamir Guerra wins Junior Cross Country Classic Belize City, March 24, 2013 Team Cayo High Road’s Zamir Guerra broke Byron Pope’s record by over 3 minutes, clocking 3:34:38 on his 72-mile victory ride for the 14th annual Junior Cross Country Cycling classic on Sunday.

In the sprint to the finish Guerra edged out Tarique Flowers riding unattached to take home the winner’s garland of roses, a $300 cash prize from the Cycling Association, a trophy, a jersey donated by 2005 Cross Country champion Bill Elliston, a silver chain and cycling pendant from Yvonne Robinson and Xishel and a box of Trail Mix from Smart Speednet.

Tarique Flowers held on to beat Team BECOL uprising’s Michael Wagner and claim the $200 2nd prize and a trophy.

Wagner took home the $100 3rd third prize and a trophy.

The 84th annual Holy Saturday Cross Country classic from Belize City to San Ignacio and back comes up on March 30.

Other finishers: Unattached Joslyn Chavarria – 4th Telemedia Swoosh’s Giovanni Lovell – 5th Team Xibalban’s Oscar Quiros – 6th Unattached Philip Mencias – 7th place Team Cayo High Road’s Aiden Juan – 8th BECOL Uprising’s Zahir Figueroa – 9th Unattached Damien Westby – 10th

Zamir Guerra

Tarique Flowers won 2nd Place

and Jorsling in the 75th minute resulted in both men being sent off with red cards; Jorsling will have to miss the Soca Warriors’ next fixture in Peru.

The game was officiated by Referee Irfan Basdemir, Assistant Referee I Ricardo Ake and Assistant Referee II Daniel Catzim who are all from Belize.

Team Belize will play more friendly games to raise funds for the team’s travel expenses to the Gold Cup.

Who will the Holy Saturday Cycling Classic?

Belize City, March 25, 2013 As cycling fans prepare for the 2013 Holy Saturday Cycling Classic, the BELIZE TIMES revisits the names of those who have captured garland over the past ten years.

There have only been two Belizeans in the last decade, Giovanni Choto in 2012, and Shane Vasquez in 2006. The BELIZE TIMES wishes all cyclists a safe journey and we join Belizeans in hoping for a Belizean victory!

2012 Winner: Giovanni Choto (Belizean) 2011 Winner: Luis Alberto Santizo (Guatemalan) 2010 Winner: Miguel Perez (Guatemalan) 2009 Winner: Carlos Lopez (Mexican) 2008 Winner: Ryan Baumann (United States) 2007 Winner: Boyd Johnson (United States) 2006 Winner: Shane Vasquez (Belizean) 2005 Winner: William Elliston (United States) 2004 Winner: Chris Harkey (United States) 2003 Winner: Chris Harkey (United States)

FC Belize outlasts Placencia Assassins 1-0 Belize City, March 24, 2013 FC Belize moved up to No. 3 in the Premier League of Belize standings after their against the Placencia Assassins 1-0 at the MCC Garden in Belize City on Sunday.

The Assassins had come to Belize City looking for a win to ease the pain of their 1-2 loss to the Bandits in Belmopan the week before, but it was Cristobal Gilharry who converted a penalty in the 75th minute to give FC Belize the win.

Continued on page 15

Arnie Whyte controls the ball

31 MAR MAR 31

SPORTS 15

THE BELIZE TIMESTIMES THE BELIZE

2013

Easy Does It belts

Alfred Dawson Cricket Club 157-65 Lemonal Village, March 24, 2013 Easy Does It won 157-65 over Alfred Dawson Cricket Club when the 2013 SMART Harrison Parks national cricket competition continued in Lemonal on Sunday.

Chris Banner took 5 wickets and scored 37 runs for Easy Does It, while Thomas Dawson scored 11 runs for the visitors and Zaggi took 6 wickets.

The match between Bright Star and Wicked Eleven was postponed. The second half of the competition resumes on April 6, after the Easter weekend.

Other matches: Isabella Uprising vs. Brave Union – 163-71 Sunrise of Lord’s Bank vs. Police – 198 -109 Brilliant vs. Surprise – 223-30

Easy Does it bowls out Alfred Dawson

Easy Does It team

UB women win 26th annual Relathon FC Belize outlasts Continued from page 14

Belize City, March 24, 2013 The University of Belize women won the 36th edition of the annual UB Relathon from Belmopan to Belize City on Sunday, March 24. The UB men started in San Ignacio in front of the police station at 8:45am, and the girls started at Belmopan Market Square. The

females finished at 3:46 p.m. while the males arrived 15 minutes later. The best times are as follows: Tischelle Solis had the Best female time per mile: 6:04; while Irice Reyes clocked 6:21 and Arlene Bennett - 6:25.

Among the men, Danilio Marcilio had the Best female

time per mile: 5:04 with Kent Welch clocking 5:12, and Uhuru Mckoy - 5:29.

A total of 41 females participated and 48 males.

This victory by the females closes in the margin of wins which is at 18-15 in favor of the males. Congratulations to winners and all participants!

The Assassins pulled out all the stops after that; as Ashley Torres and Alexander Peters pressed for the equalizer supported by midfielders but to no avail. An altercation between Assassins’ Bernard Linares and FC Belize’s Luis Arriola resulted in both men being sent off with red cards. The Assassins are now cellar dwellers with only 7pts and a -7 goal differential.

FC San Felipe Barcelona’s game with the Police will be played at the People’s Stadium in Orange Walk Town on Wednesday, April 10.

Other games: BDF vs. Verdes – 0-2 San Ignacio United vs. Belmopan Bandits – 1-1

16

THE BELIZE TIMES

31 MAR

2013

31 MAR

2013

THE BELIZE TIMES

17

Budget Response

by Hon. John Briceño

We live in very challenging times, the days of 8% and 10% annual economic growth are gone. All over the world the number of people falling into poverty is increasing. Given this backdrop I celebrate with those on the other side the fact that the hard work and dedication of the Belizean people have produced GDP growth of 5.3%.

Of course we have to temper this celebration with that stark truth, that inspite of this economic success, today in Belize the poor have less and the rich seems to have more. Mr Speaker we do not begrudge the rich, but in a land so blessed with wealth untold, we believe that no Belizean should be poor and that every success should in some way benefit the poor.

If you listen to the Prime Minister, you would believe that with the superbond restructuring and last year’s growth we have turned the page. In fact he says it’s onward and upward and the optimist in me would wish it to be so. But I have to agree with the Leader of the Opposition when he says that there are two different realties facing us today. The one reflected in the prime minister’s speech and the one Belizeans are living.

In the Prime Minister’s reality it is onward and up wards, in the other, Belizeans are struggling to make it from day to day. The growing number of poor has less, and they are being asked to do and to give more. In today’s $3billion dollar economy, close to half of our people are living in poverty; unemployment is at 14 percent; unemployment among women and youth is estimated at around 25 percent.

Crime has reached a point where we have become one of the most violent nations in the world. With all the bright projections, Belize is ranked on the human development index at 96th in the world, a ranking below most of our CARICOM partners.

So yes Mr. Speaker, we have achieved growth, but we are far from that onward and upward march we heard in the Prime Minister’s Budget presentation.

PRIORITIES FOR 2013-2014 Whatever celebrations we had over the success of the Superbond renegotiations and over the growth numbers for the Belizean economy in 2012, was tempered by the Prime Minister’s projections for 2013/2014.

The PM in looking to this year’s economic outcome said that indeed we may not see another year of 5 percent growth and is expecting 3 percent growth in this financial year. (According to the Central Bank its 2.7%) This is reason to be concerned when considering that the very essence of this year’s budget is focused on economic expansion, one of his two main pillars of this budget.

Even the Prime Minister must con-

cede that it will take more than the expected 3 percent growth to see meaningful development even in the context of the debt restructuring.

Mr. Speaker we on this side of the House are concerned that while we will have less growth in 2013, we plan on spending significantly more. Estimated expenditures for 2013/2014 are expected to reach $934 million as compared with the $862 million in expenditure in 2012, an increase of $72 million. And where is all that money being spent?

If we listen to the rhetoric, you would think most of it would go to social programmes and middle class initiatives, so let us look at where this money is going. Let us look at how much of the increase will go to health? Not much really, they will get an increase of $9 million. On education then? Not really, education will increase by $3million.

Maybe the increase spending will be in National Security. Actually no, national security’s growth is very small. The bulk of the spending increase will occur in expenses like telephone, fuel, new vehicles, maintenance, foreign travel and the like. We can do better Mr. Speaker.

And while the PM says there will be no new taxes, in recent months we have seen electricity increase by 17 percent, trade licenses more than doubled in certain areas, property taxes increased by 30 percent and his great mayor of Belize City is talking about every manner of taxation from the $10 garbage fee to his plan to toll the northern highway.

Yet the PM keeps saying no new taxes.

Mr Speaker in the area of Foreign Affairs, we hear of no new cooperation initiatives with our regional, hemispheric or developed partners, yet once again we see more moneys being disbursed to our embassies abroad.

And we must single out New York.

I know the PM has special interest in this embassy but the sums of money we are spending are ridiculous!

In allowances in 2011\12 they spent $373,567. In 2013\14 they have budgeted $724.392, an increase of $350,824 (94%). In rent for 2011\12 they spent $705,772. For this new budget they will spend $1,021,807, an increase of $316,080 (45%). And it doesn’t end there Mr. Speaker. In 2011\12 $274,096 was spent on dwelling quarters. For this new budget they will spend $429,797, a increase of $155,701 (57%) New York approved estimates increase spending to $2.2 million, 3 diplomats and over $2 million dollars. $13.5 million being spent on the Foreign Ministry and what are we getting?

And with respect to trade and investment promotion, why are we spending $2.3 million at BELTRAIDE this year? What do they have to show for the $1.2 million that they spent last

year? Is the BETRAIDE work programme for 2013-2014 so enhanced that they will need to double their budget? (I know that Mr. Singh is getting over $100k in salary) Whatever they are doing to enhance or improve trade, it was not reflected in the World Bank Index of doing business in Belize. In fact our numbers went down by one point from last year to this year. Mr. Speaker I hope that the Minister responsible for BELTRAIDE will tell us what we got for spending $1.2 million last year, perhaps he will tell us how much revenue was brought in last year through the efforts of BELTRAIDE. Such is their success Mr. Speaker that the Prime Minister did not once mention BELTRAIDE in his speech.

In light of all this, how can anyone justify such a significant budget increase?

ORANGE WALK

Mr Speaker I am always thankful to the great people of Orange Walk Central for the privilege of serving as their representative since 1993. It is an honour that I take seriously and do my best to work for them every single day.

During the ten years of the last PUP government much was done for the people of Orange Walk Central.

We assisted every school in OW Central with new class rooms. And hundreds of students were assisted with scholarships and grants.

We built the ITVET with a 10 acre campus; ten acres of land was acquired for the Continued on page 19

18

14 cases of Hepatitis A in Stann Creek!

Belmopan, March 25th, 2013 The Ministry of Health is investigating a cluster of fourteen suspected cases of Hepatitis A that have occurred over the last three weeks in the Trio Village, Stann Creek District.

One such case has been confirmed by lab.

Hepatitis A is a food and waterborne disease with symptoms that may include

GMO SEEDS - ARE THEY HERE? Continued from page 11 further marginalization of the traditional milpa farmers and the destruction of a culture and way of life for our subsistence farmers. It will not help but rather contribute even further to increasing the already high poverty level in Belize.

It is a wrong policy, if there is a policy on agricultural development. It is not the right decision. It is a policy that will help a few at the cost to the many. This is not how a government should work. This is why it has become a muted topic but with big payoffs mainly from large commercial grain farmers, mainly in the Cayo District, in Western Belize.

There are, no doubt, some positive results from GMOs such as increased yields (not always guaranteed), but there are also serious genetic issues that contribute to cancers and other severe health impacts.

One study notes: “Since GMOs have the potential to replace standard crops, the companies that produce them and the farmers who are able to use them stand to profit greatly. This could reduce the amount of competition between farmers and give the companies that create GMOs great power in the agriculture industry.�

With the implied decision of the Barrow government to facilitate the importation of GMOs, it means the death knell for traditional farmers in Belize. It also has major health implications which neither the Ministry of Health, nor the Consumer Protection Unit has addressed. GMO foods are also finding their way on the shelves of our supermarkets with total disregard by the health authorities. All this is wrong-headed.

Belize has more to lose than to gain, in the long range, from the importation and cultivation of GMOs. Inside sources, who object to this policy, say that importers are encouraged to change or remove from packages, the labels identifying them as GMOs. Can someone in the Ministry of Agriculture come clean?

31 MAR

THE BELIZE TIMES

yellowing of the eyes and skin, dark urine, light-colored stool along with mild fever, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite among others. This self-limiting disease can also be contracted from close contact with infected individuals.

The Ministry advises the public to take necessary precautions (as listed below) to prevent contamination and spread of the virus.

- Wash hands properly using

soap and clean water especially before preparing or serving food, after using the toilet and after changing diapers.

- Wash all vegetables, fruits and other raw food with clean water before eating it.

- Do not consume contaminated water or ice. Boil and treat all drinking water with chlorine.

- Disinfect contaminated dishes, toilets and common surfac-

2013

es.

Since the start of the year, a few cases have been identified mainly in the rural communities of the Corozal, Cayo and Toledo Districts. We are aggressively conducting house-to-house health education and environmental cleanup campaigns to treat the cases in all the affected areas.

The Ministry of Health re-emphasizes the need to practice good hygiene and sanitary measures at all times. If you or someone you know suspects the presence of the disease, please visit the nearest health care facility in your community.

31 MAR

2013

THE BELIZE TIMES

19

Remarks by Hon. Jose Mai on the Budget for fiscal year 2013/2014 Belmopan, March 22, 2013 Mr. Speaker the Belizean People want to know: a) What is the Government’s strategy to lower the more than 40% poverty rate in the country? b) What is the plan to reduce the more than 25% unemployment rate? c) Yes, this is what the University graduates and sixth formers want to hear.

Where, Mr. Speaker, is the stimulus package?

1) What are the economic sector objectives and target indicators? They should be specific, measurable, achievable and time-defined? Words are just words, we need numerical targets.

2) Where are the programmatic strategies that should be implemented? Are these clear to you?

The farmers, the construction workers, the truckers, the road builders, the university graduates, the sixth formers were anxiously waiting for the stimulus package to be unveiled because it would have created gainful employment, generated badly needed income from increased sales, increased production that could lead to improved livelihoods and less poverty.

Sadly, Mr. Speaker, there is none, no mention of the Vision for the Economy, instead we hear that the monster has been tamed and that no new taxes will be implemented…. Except the 17.5% hike in electricity rates.

But, Mr. Speaker, let me remind or enlighten those on the other side that

there is a plan or plans for all to see.

Yes there are. What has the government done with Horizon 2030? There is no reference to it, much less any explanation of the relationship between the 2013-2014 budget and Horizon 2030.

You see Mr. Speaker, I wonder why does the government of the day not adopt the plan? a) Is it because those development visions and plans are no good? b) If so, why did we spend so much money on producing them? c) Is it because they do not mention nor prioritize programs such as the Food Pantry, Cash Transfer Program etc? d) Is it because the Government believes that giving away food and cash are the only way to fight poverty?

Mr. Speaker the Belizean people are convinced that Horizon 2030 has been shelved because GoB has its own agenda… A hidden agenda for its political supporters…No doubt, they think it is easier to get votes by giving out food and cash.

But Mr. Speaker, HANDOUTS will not build the economy!!! Handouts convert people into beggars lined up outside a Minister’s office waiting…… waiting….

But Mr. Speaker, this is not the way to fight poverty!!! Fighting Poverty and unemployment Mr Speaker, there is so much literature on social and economic development with practical examples and lessons on how to address: Youth unemployment, poverty, crime and youth through cost-effective,

Budget Response

by Hon. John Briceño

Continued from page 17 Bishop Martin High School. We built the Banquitas House of Culture, the Fort Cairns Market Plaza. We acquired two lots for the La Inmaculada School; we built the Multi-Purpose Building and refurbished the People’s Stadium.

We expanded the Northern Regional Hospital. We expanded Orange Walk Town, built 120 homes at the San Lorenzo Housing Site, and distributed 80 lots at San Lorenzo Housing Site, 191 lots in Marcus Canul. (acquired 100 acres for town expansion). We paved the road to Muffles Junior College. We paved Oleander St, Clarke St, Lyle St, San Andres St, Jabiru St, Fonseca St, and parts of San Francisco St among other streets.

We expanded electricity in Orange Walk Town and San Estevan. And we built the Orange Walk By-pass that includes two bridges. This is just some of the work that was accomplished under the ten years of a PUP government in Orange Walk Central.

Less than a decade ago the north was one of the most prosperous areas

in our nation.

Many of our people farmed the land while their sons and daughters went to school to learn new skills, giving rise to a new generation of productive Belizeans.

The sons and daughters of cane farmers became doctors, lawyers, bankers, and business people and yes some joined their parents on the farms and plantations.

Today our young people have improved their skills base; the sugar cane industry has grown and with it BSI has developed and expanded into a producer of renewable energy.

Add to this the success in the Corozal Free Zone and the productive capacity of the north, we are an integral part of our national development.

Still Corozal and Orange Walk ranks as the 2nd and 3rd poorest districts in the nation. How could this be?

It would appear that the north, while producing more, is gaining less of the economic pie.

For the poor in the north Mr. Speak-

good value-for-money and sustainable policies and programs.

If the economy grew by 5%, how can it be explained Mr. Speaker that: 1. 25 out of every 100 Belizeans are jobless 2. That more than 40 persons out of every 100 are living in destitute poverty 3. Why is that we live in the 8th most violent country in the world?

4. Why is that businesses are closing down daily?

5. Why is it that weekly newspaper pages are occupied with properties being auctioned and no one to buy?

6. Why is it that a 7 year old children run up to your vehicle begging for $2.00, a dollar to buy eggs and a dollar to buy Ramen?

How can all this be explained when supposedly, the economy grew by 5%?

Economic growth without social progress lets the great majority of people remain in poverty, while a privileged few reap the benefits of rising abundance. (J F Kennedy 1917-1963) Turning to numbers Mr. Speaker, the PM mentioned in his presentation, that the growth is attributed to brisk activity in agriculture and agro-manufacturing. Well then Mr Speaker if this is so, why does agriculture only receive 2.3 % of the national budget, while 2 million dollars from CDB will used to for unsustainable programs masked with the pretext of reducing vulnerability of children to crime and gang membership.

Why not, Mr. Speaker, develop

a Sustainable Low Cost Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Program with clear objectives for poverty alleviation, food security, improved health and nutrition and crime reduction.

Allocation for Agriculture Mr. Speaker, the total allocation to Agriculture for 2013-2014 including Recurrent, Cap II and Cap III is 22.4 million or 2.3% of the national budget. There is no significant difference between 20122013 and 2013-2014 budget allocation for Agriculture.

But even with a CAP II of $3.6 million…. this does not mean that the Ministry of Agriculture will be receiving this allocation. Mr. Speaker, in 2012-2013, 4.22 million dollars was approved for agriculture under Cap II. However the revised fig only shows $564,000 or 13% of the approved allocation was realized. Yet the PM admits that growth is attributed to agriculture and agriculture manufacturing. Where’s the rationale for this very low allocation, do we want to kill the goose that lays the golden Continued on page 30

er the Prime Minister is living in a very different Belize than they are.

Our poor people need to be included in the poverty alleviation projects, they too want to be a part of the BOOST Programme, and the conditional cash transfer programme.

They want to see the roll out of NHI, especially in the north. Most important, they want the opportunity to lift themselves out of poverty.

CONCLUSION Regrettably Mr. Speaker this budget will not improve the lives of poor Belizeans; it will not result in new schools, new health clinics, new parks and playgrounds, new sporting facilities or anything that will show a young nation on the move. And it will bring no sense of confidence or comfort to average Belizeans.

If we are to lift our people out of poverty we have to focus on more job creation, more programs to keep our children off the streets and a chance for small business growth.

Let us work to bring the unemployment rate back to 8 percent which is what the UDP inherited when they took office in 2008.

We need to create the climate for new business and for greater investments. I stand ready to support efforts that will benefit Belizeans, especially

the poorest among us. The truth is Mr. Speaker that despite the Prime Ministers flashy speech, if you ask any Belizean out there if they are better off in 2013 than they were in 2008 the answer would be a resounding NO. That is why the unions were here marching.

Yes, the UDP loves to blame the PUP, but that is their side of the story and as Belizeans like to say, “Yo gat two sides to every story. Ask the many who had jobs in 2008 who today don’t have jobs. Ask the patients being treated through the NHI programme yet some of their families could not get on the programme. Ask the thousands of villagers in the south who got water systems and electricity Ask the over 65,000 Belizeans who got their land titles and leases. Ask the employees and owners of those new companies in agriculture and acqua culture and the many who got jobs at hotels on the Placencia Peninsula, north San Pedro and the Cayo District. These were all initiatives that were done for the people by the PUP. And while the Prime Minister asks for laurels and garlands, in the streets the people have their side of the UDP story too. Their side of the story can be told by Dan Man who like the rest of those 43 percent poor Belizeans continue to say: “We Tyaad ah ga”.

20

31 MAR

THE BELIZE TIMES

ing. Turn off the heat and allow to cool until mixture is still warm, but not hot--about 30 minutes.

Sprinkle yeast over mixture. Add 4 cups of flour and stir to combine. Mixture will be very sticky. Cover with a towel and set aside for 1 hour.

Add 1/2 cup flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir till combined.

Combine 1/4 cup sugar with cinnamon and whatever other spices you want to use.

Lightly flour surface. Press to slightly flatten dough.

Sprinkle a couple tablespoons of the sugar/cinnamon mixture. Sprinkle on about a third of the raisins. Then fold the dough over on itself and flatten again so the dough is “plain” again. Repeat the sugar/raisin process, then fold the dough again. Repeat a third time until all the raisins are used. (You won’t use all the sugar/cinnamon mixture.)

Pinch off ping pong or golf ball-size bunches of dough.

With floured hands, quickly roll it into a ball, then turn the edges under themselves slightly. Place on a lightly greased cookie sheet. Cover and allow to rise in a warm place for at least 30 minutes...an hour-plus is better.

PREHEAT OVEN TO 400 degrees

Recipe of the week HOT CROSS BUNS Ingredients BUNS 2 cups Whole Milk 1/2 cup Canola Oil 1/2 cup Sugar 1 package (2 1/4 Teaspoons) Active Dry Yeast 4 cups All-purpose Flour 1/2 cup (additional) Flour 1/2 teaspoon (heaping) Baking Powder 1/2 teaspoon (scant) Baking Soda 2 teaspoons Salt 1/4 cup Sugar 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Spices: Cardamom, Nutmeg, Allspice (optional) 1/2 cup Raisins

GLAZE 1 whole Egg White Splash Of Milk Icing 1 whole Egg White Powdered Sugar Splash Of Milk

GLAZE Mix 1 egg white with a splash of milk. Brush onto each roll.

Bake for 20 minutes, give or take, or until tops of buns have turned nice and golden brown.

Remove from pan and allow to cool on a cooling rack.

ICING Mix 1 egg white with enough powdered sugar for icing to be very thick. Splash in milk as needed for consistency.

Add icing to a small Ziploc bag and snip the corner.

Make icing crosses on each roll, making sure they’re completely cooled first.

Directions: BUNS Combine 2 cups milk, canola oil, and 1/2 cup sugar in a saucepan. Stir and heat until very warm but not boil-

MARRIAGES Derrick Junior Leslie, 35, to Natalie Adriane Denise Laing, 37, both of Belize City Delio Filiberto Tesecum, 24, to Dianelly Yamarie Jimenez, 20, both of Bullet Tree Falls, Cayo District James Christopher Albright, 52, to Kathleen Ann Gray, 45, both of Pocono Lake, Pennsylvania, U.S.A. Steward Roy Dyck, 24, of Blue Creek, Orange Walk District, to Samantha Joanie Dick, 24, of Manitoba, Canada Tirso Joaquin Aragon, 35, to Niveria Nayeli Arceo, 36, both of Sarteneja, Corozal District Salustio Marcialito Reyes, 28, to Delsy Yasmin Roberts, 25, both of Concepcion, Corozal District Richard Charles Sierra, 26, to Lisa Maria

Trujeque, 29, both of Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District David Jamoy Terrelonge, 29, to Maria del Carmen Acal Olivencia, 33, both of Corozal Town, Corozal District Ruben Dario Alcoser, 31, to Leticia Juanita Westby, 29, both of Calcutta, Corozal District Gilroy Harim Alfaro, 28, to Maria Magdalena Zepeda, 19, both of San Jose Succotz, Cayo District Elston Anthony Hyde, 33, to Ingrid Yojana Paiz, 18, both of Cotton Tree, Cayo District Elvis Christian Zabaneh, 22, of Dangriga Town, Stann Creek District, to Tersi Amini Aguilar, 20, of San Ignacio Town, Cayo District Carlisle Derrick Barrow, 33, to Jaye Karlise

2013

Happy Easter!

Coleman, 25, both of Belmopan Obidio Pana, 30, of Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District, to Sirai Mayelita Cruz, 18, of San Jose, Orange Walk District Miguel Angel Requena, 24, to Gabriela Solangel Zuniga, 22, both of San Jose, Orange Walk District Raju Singh, 32, of Corozal Town, Corozal District, to Noemi Yadira Arana, 30, of Yalbac, Cayo District Elder Idair Villamil, 25, of San Pedro, Corozal District, to Marceli Cristina Tzul, 28, of San Joaquin, Corozal District Ivan Emmanuel Valencia, 23, of Corozal Town, Corozal District, to Karitza Lucia Novelo, 19, of Calcutta, Corozal District Urian Ramirez, 22, of Xaibe, Corozal District, to Jeannette Rachel Reyes, 19, of San Andres, Corozal District Ancelmo Cholom, 23, to Marcela Delica Pop,

20, both of Indian Creek, Toledo District Jimmael Jesus Cowo, 25, of Progresso, Corozal District, to Gricely Angelita Chuc, 22, of Sarteneja, Corozal District Lawrence Andrew Denis, 55, to Fanny Elizabeth Gomez Garcia, 33, both of San Ignacio Town, Cayo District Jaime Javier Mejia, 31, to Dominga Moseta Ortega, 37, both of Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District Lawrence Basil Bol, 31, of San Antonio, Toledo District, to Elbria Ack, 28, of Laguna, Toledo District Afolabi Oluwasegun Adeoye, 23, of Belmopan, to Luz Adriana Perez Reyes, 31, of Bonnyville, Alberta, Canada William Alexander Palacio, 27, to Rita Diana Oh, 21, both of Maya Beach, Stann Creek District Augustine James Sabal, 27, to Faith Francis Arzu, 31, both of Dangriga Town, Stann Creek District

BIRTHS Born to Rudy Perez and Brenda Yaneth Perez nee Ortiz, a girl, Brenda Yameleth Born to Charlesworth C. Welch and Sheon Minerva Welch nee Muschamp, a boy, Charleston Ivor Born to Emerson Jose Quezada and Ana Carolina Quezada nee Jacamo, a boy, David Jose Born to Robert Thomas Paul Ackerley and Kimara Keisha Ackerley nee Galvez, a girl, Mila Leigh

DEATHS Miguel Angel Guerrero, 44 Juanita Young, 75 Melbourne Alonzo Sheran, 49 Alma Stephen, 84

31 MAR

2013

THE BELIZE TIMES

Reid Houdini inside the House!

By G. Michael Reid After many years of listening to House meetings and debates, Belizeans were finally informed as to what these exercises are all about.

For two days last week, different members of our government took turns telling us what it is that they do in the House. I, for one, am truly grateful because for the longest time I have been listening and have been confused. Now it all makes sense to me.

The Prime Minister revealed on Friday that the purpose that he and his fellow members go to the House is to entertain us, the listening public. He, Dean Barrow, is the ring leader who dazzles us with word tricks, pulls promises like rabbits from his magic hat and escapes from every situation like Houdini. According to the Prime Minister, his budget reveals a “Houdini-like performance” and that his party is ready for “laurels and garlands”. All that was left was for the Prime Minister to have entered wearing a black suit and a tall black hat, with a magic wand in hand and uttering the spell “Abracadabra”.

We were nonetheless spellbound as we sat listening incredulously for two days.

In reality, the House sitting was supposed to have been about a debate of Mr. Barrow’s “ACHIEVING DEBT SUSTAINABILITY, STIMULATING ECONOMIC EXPANSION” budget. Mr. Barrow described the debt, specifically the dreaded Superbond, as a wild raging beast that he “tackled and tamed” as he “extricated Belize from the worst of their Faustian pact.” Magic folks, simply magic!

The opposition tore Mr. Barrow’s budget apart and in the end, it was exposed for what it really was; an

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any circus be with a clown? Michael Finnegan rose to the occasion and made a complete fool of himself. He spoke about everything except finance, including a tv commercial and the Holy Saturday Cross Country Classic. He also took the opportunity to inform that he had captured Mark and Jorge Espat and was going illusion. It seems that rather than after Cordel Hyde and Godfrey Houdini, the Prime Minister would Smith. Guh deh strong Finny, guh have better compared himself to deh strong!

David Copperfield, the world faAt the end of the day, when mous illusionist. Mr. Barrow made the discussion finally got around growth appear from thin air and to the budget, it was learned that made inflation disappear. Magic the government intends to spend folks, pure magic! nine hundred and thirty-four milThe Prime Minister bragged of lion dollars while collecting only a five percent economic growth eight hundred and seventy one. but had no facts to back up his That leaves a deficit of sixty-two boast. Where exactly did that million dollars. Just about the growth come from? With declining amount government intends to revenues from oil, less port calls dole out to cronies in their ill-confrom cruise ships and a sugar inceived Belize Infrastructure Limitdustry now owned by foreigners, ed scheme. The Chamber of Comwhere is Mr. Barrow getting this merce has questioned this project growth from? Certainly not from but watch Houdini get out of this citrus, which saw prices fall to one too. nearly half what it was in previous According to the Chamber, years. While citrus growers got “following the review of the Audi$14 dollars per box for oranges tor General’s Report for 2010-2011, the House should not have Michael Finnegan rose to the occasion and made allowed another budget presentation because cora complete fool of himself. He spoke about evrective actions have not been taken in respect of erything except finance, including a tv commerthe irregularities, corruption cial and the Holy Saturday Cross Country and waste highlighted by Classic. He also took the opportunity to inthe report”. Excellent point Mr. Chamber but good luck form that he had captured Mark and Jorge tying Houdini down.

Espat and was going after Cordel Hyde and What Mr. Barrow did Godfrey Smith. not explain in the debate, was how he would delast year, this year they are receivcape any situation and talk and crease crime and lower unemploying just over $7. Is that what Mr. trick his way out of every predicment. There was nothing to assist Barrow considers growth? ament. Well, the Belizean people the youth and nothing to address Mr. Barrow has also been might themselves have a trick up the forty plus percent of our peobragging about a two percent intheir sleeves and might one day ple living in poverty. Oh well, at flation rate. Anyone who has to deliver a blow when he least exleast we were entertained and afbuy groceries and feed a family pects it. ter all, is that not the sole purpose must have been listening to the And of course, what would of that exercise!

Prime Minister with gaping jaws.

Maybe we should buy our groceries where he does, but then that would mean flying to Miami. The Houdini reference is appropriate to some degree because Mr. Barrow does disappear quite often.

Maybe those figures are indeed from Miami where he spends most of his time.

Minister Sedi Elrington then stood up to compare his leader to Jesus Christ. Serious folks, I’m not making this up. Like Jesus, said Mr. Elrington, Dean Barrow has made everyone happy and fed us all with five fishes and two loaves of bread. Elrington must have thought that was what was happening when Dean looked up to sky and made the sign of the cross when a member on the other side finished speaking.

Elrington then went on to once again try and explain away his ill-thought of comment about an “artificial border”. It doesn’t matter how often and how long you speak about this Mr. Elrington, you were wrong; wrong as two left shoes.

Caribbean Shores representative Santi Castillo then came forward and professed to teach us history. He explained about Houdini and who he was. According to Santi, Houdini was a magician who performed tricks and informed us that Houdini’s last trick killed him. Santi himself seems to need a history lesson.

Houdini was not killed by any trick but instead died as a result of a ruptured appendix. He had bragged about being able to take any punch to his midsection and one of his students took him up on the challenge and supposedly struck him hard when he was not expecting it.

The Houdini story might indeed have a lesson in it for our Prime Minister. He brags and boasts and thinks that he can es-

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2013

Home Economics Belize National Budget 2013/14 - A Rapid Scan

By Richard Harrison The Belize National Budget exercise is the governments’ general guide to their forecast for the public sector and general country performance during that given year. It is sort of the governments’ BUSINESS PLAN for the upcoming year.

The general thrusts of the government’s budget for 2013/14 are: (1) no “new taxes”, nothing about changes in rates of existing taxes (2) bigger government, with the promise of more public sector driven employment (3) lower GDP growth, estimated at around 2% (4) large deficit, estimated at around $139 million (5) life support from Taiwan (6) food pantry and other support to the “indigent” (7) possible public sector rewards and benefits, tied to enhanced performance in tax collection.

What is explicit in any given budget….is as important as what is not-so-explicit.

A business plan should be driven by a VISION, MISSION and STRATEGY. A basic instrument that helps to develop these “drivers”….is a SWOT Analysis….a comprehensive review and analysis of our current STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES, OPPORTUNITIES and THREATS. There is no evidence that such a review and analysis is driving the budgetary decisions that are being made.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

The promise of “no new taxes” may be consoling to the blind. It is reassurance for those who believe that we are headed in the right direction….and that what we have been doing is working well for us.

If we are confident that what we have been doing is right….then there is no need to change course.

There is implicit in the statements…. that lack of confidence in the private sector. This is driving this proposed “big government” initiative. The BCCI, who can be fairly accused of being accomplices of the government “strategies” thus far, needs to reflect deeply on this “cause and effect” notion.

There is no reference in the budget regarding plans and policies to make Belize’s production of goods and services more competitive and productive…other than the promise of yet another highly paid public servant “competitiveness tzar”. LOL. This is what would halt and reverse the rapid decline in real incomes of individuals and businesses, which is the principal reason behind low levels of investments, high liquidity in the financial system, growing level of defaults and foreclosures, and the high unemployment and poverty levels being experienced.

The budget for 2013/14 is more of the same….mas de lo mismo. Que viva Belice!

This article was written by Richard Harrison, a local businessman and investor in the manufacturing and service industries.

Mr. Harrison holds a Masters in Business Administration degree from Lancaster University, United Kingdom. Send comments to harrisonbz@yahoo.com

For Sale

By Order of the Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., a company duly registered under the Companies Act, Chapter 250 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition, 2000, and having its registered office at Cor. Albert and Bishop Streets, Belize City, Belize, hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Mortgage under a Deed of Assignment of Mortgage made the 26th of July, 2010, between RICHARD M. ESTEPHAN of the one part, and Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd., of the other part, and recorded at the Land Titles Unit in Deeds Book Vol. 23 of 2010 at Folios 1371–1396, the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd. will at the expiration of two months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the property described in the schedule hereto.

All offers to purchase the said property must be made in writing and full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained from the said Scotiabank (Belize) Ltd. SCHEDULE ALL THAT piece or parcel of land being Block No. 4 containing 3.75 acres situated East of the Northern Highway near the Houlover Bridge, Belize District as shown on the Plan attached to the Minister’s Fiat Grant No. 820 of 2008 dated 15th December, 2008 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon.

DATED this 6th day of March, 2013.

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

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THE BELIZE TIMES

WOMAN IN THE HOUSE AN ABUSE OF

PROCESS

The two day debate on the General Revenue Appropriation Bill 2013 to 2014 took place in the House of Representatives on Thursday and Friday March 21st and 22nd, 2013.

The debate on the Opposition side was robust, vigorous and forceful, but then, as you all know, I am biased!

I wish to address in this piece what I saw as a clear abuse of the process and Standing Orders of the House of Representatives by the Member for Collet, Hon. Patrick Faber.

I made my contribution to the debate in a 48 minute address, and I was the last speaker on day one of the debate. In my contribution I noted that in the Education budget various Grant Aided Schools had been placed together and that the proposed sum for these schools was

$49 million. I said that since all these institutions had been lumped together it was my hope that each school would indeed get what they were supposed to.

I am positive that I did not misquote or misrepresent anything that Hon. Faber said.

Hon. Ivan Ramos, Member for Dangriga, also addressed several issues regarding Education in his contribution on day two, and at no time did I hear him misquote or misrepresent anything that Hon. Faber had said in his address on the first day of the debate.

As soon as Hon. Ivan sat down after his address, House Speaker Hon. Michael Peyrefitte announced that he would allow Hon. Faber to speak again because he, Hon. Faber, alleged that both I and Hon. Ivan had misrepresented him.

The Standing Orders of the House are quite clear. Section 35 (3) states that

“no Member shall speak more than once on any question” except as later provided. And Paragraph (4) states “A Member who has spoken on a question may again be heard to offer explanations of some material part of his speech which he alleges has been misquoted or misrepresented, but he shall not introduce new matter”.

Obviously Hon. Faber had told the Speaker privately, because he did not ask it aloud in the House, that he wanted to speak again, and he used Paragraph (4) for his request. The Speaker allowed Hon. Faber to have another chance to speak, and Hon. Faber proceeded to make another long speech, replete as usual with harangues, accusations and quarrelsome conduct. And he introduced several new matters that had not been referred to in his contribution on the first day. One of his accusations drew angry responses from the Leader of the Opposition and from Hon. Rodwell Ferguson.

My point is not about Hon. Faber’s accusations. It is about my considered

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By Dolores Balderamos-Garcia view that Hon. Faber abused the Standing Orders. On the pretext of his claim that he had been misrepresented, he asked to speak again and was allowed to do so. He merely wanted another chance to quarrel and grandstand in the normal UDP fashion. There was no brief elucidation of one issue or brief reply clarifying a previously made statement.

As a matter of fact Hon. Faber could have risen briefly on a point of elucidation during my speech or Hon. Ivan’s speech had there been a pressing issue to be clarified right away. Standing Order 37 states: “A Member shall not interrupt another Member except (b) to elucidate some matter raised by that Member in the course of his speech, provided that the Member speaking is willing to give way...”

Instead Hon. Faber asked for and was granted another chance to speak by alleging, falsely I believe, that he had been misquoted or misrepresented. He should not have been given that opportunity and he should not have made another speech. And the Speaker should not have allowed it. It was an abuse of process.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

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11 TIPS

Travelling

This week we take a break from Energy Saving tips to offer some Travel advice. This weekend is Belize’s longest holiday weekend, and many of us Belizeans will become tourists here at home.

While fun and entertainment is a must, safety and security are priorities. Here are 25 travel tips to consider for a safe trip.

1. Before leaving your home make sure it is

secure. All windows and doors locked. All appliances turned off or secured with safe connections. Gas tank can be closed.

Lights turned off. If no electrical appliances are turned on, you can switch the main breaker to “off” to be on the safe side.

2. Tell a neighbour

that you will be out and if they can keep a watchful eye out.

3. If you are renting a car, make sure it’s from a

reputable company and check the small print on all contracts. Take enough money for gas.

4. Before you drive off, check your vehicle engine

so that it’s in its best performance. Check the engine oil, transmission oil, coolant, brake fluid, steering fluid and windshield wiper fluid. Always take an extra container of each in case of emergency. Also, check your tire and always carry a spare one.

Make sure your brake lights and pads are functional. Don’t forget to pack your vehicle’s tools. A vehicle check-up at your local mechanic may not be exaggerated.

5. If you have a medical condition such as diabetes, take your medication.

6. Travel light.

Take only what you need and no more.

7. Give a family member or friend your travel route and expected arrival time, so they know if some-

BELIZE TIMES

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THE BELIZE TIMES

The fastest selling newspaper in Belize

2013

BRAIN

TEASER

SUDOKU PUZZLE #10/2013

thing goes wrong. Remember that if you are travelling south, the phone connection turns off after Belmopan for many miles.

8. Consider leaving the bling at home

and reduce your risk of getting robbed. The same goes for expensive electronics such as iPods and digital cameras. Buy some disposable cameras to use.

9. Pack sunbathing lotion to protect your skin

from the sun’s hot rays. It can be tempting to spend all day in the sun, but you don’t want your vacation ruined by a bad sunburn or sunstroke.

10. Do not drink and drive. The holiday weekend will tempt folks to party, but do so with moderation. If you drink, find someone else who won’t so they drive you back safely.

11.

Now that you’ve followed our tips, get ready for some fun time.

See answers NEXT WEEK

Answers for last week’s puzzle SUDOKU PUZZLE SOLUTION #9/2013

Answers for last week’s puzzle

See answers NEXT WEEK

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THE BELIZE TIMES

2013

BELIZE TIMES WEEKLY

SCIENCE & TECH R

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V

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Selected By Chris Williams

Gene therapy cures leukaemia in eight days 26 March 2013 by Andy Coghlan WITHIN just eight days of starting a novel gene therapy, David Aponte’s “incurable” leukaemia had vanished. For four other patients, the same happened within eight weeks, although one later died from a blood clot unrelated to the treatment, and another after relapsing.

The cured trio, who were all previously diagnosed with usually fatal relapses of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, have now been in remission for between 5 months and 2 years. Michel Sadelain of the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York, co-leader of the group that designed the trial, says that a second trial of 50 patients is being readied, and the team is looking into using the technique to treat other cancers.

The key to the new therapy is identifying a molecule unique to the surface of cancer cells, then genetically engineering a patient’s

patients. These were treated with a harmless virus, which installed a new gene redirecting them to attack all cells bearing CD19. When the engineered T-cells were reinfused into the patients, they rapidly killed all B-cells, cancerous or otherwise.

“The stunning finding was that in all five patients, tumours were undetectable after the treatment,” says SadeIn remission: David Aponte (Image: Michael Nagle/ lain.

NYT/Redux/Eyevine) He reckons that immune cells to attack it. the body should replenish the In acute lymphoblastic leukaeimmune system with regular T-cells mia, immune cells called B-cells and healthy B-cells after a couple become malignant. The team were of months. However, the patients able to target a surface molecule received donated bone marrow to known as CD19 that is only present ensure they could regrow a healthy on B-cells. Doctors extracted other immune system immune cells called T-cells from the The treatment is not the first to

Women abused as children likelier to bear autistic child 20 March 2013 by Peter Aldhous Habitat destruction drove the gastWomen abused in childhood are more likely to have children with autism, a new epidemiological study suggests. The finding adds a disturbing new dimension to the heated debate over the condition’s underlying causes.

Andrea Roberts of the Harvard School of Public Health suspected that there might be a link between childhood abuse and having an autistic child: women abused early in life are more likely to smoke, suffer from gestational diabetes and have premature babies – all factors that may affect fetal brain development.

To investigate, Roberts and her colleagues turned to the Nurses’

Health Study II, which includes almost 55,000 women who had indicated if they had a child with autism spectrum disorder and also answered a questionnaire about their experience of abuse as a child. This allowed the researchers to develop a scale rating all the women for the intensity of abuse in their childhood.

There was a clear link between the “dose” of abuse received and the risk of having an autistic child. “The associations get stronger as the level of abuse increases,” Roberts says.

Big surprise After accounting for demographic factors such as age and socioeconomic status, the 2 per cent of women who reported the most serious childhood abuse – who were frequently hit and also sexually abused – were about 3.5 times as likely to have a child with autism as those who

reported no abuse at all.

“I think it’s a really interesting, innovative and well-conducted study,” says Hannah Gardener at the University of Miami in Florida.

“There aren’t a lot of risk factors with that magnitude.”

The elevated risk extended over a surprisingly large number of women.

For the top 25 per cent of women on the childhood abuse scale, the risk of having a child with autism was increased by 60 per cent compared with women who reported zero abuse.

However, the biggest surprise came when the researchers looked at nine pregnancy-related factors that might explain the link – including smoking and gestational diabetes.

These accounted for only about 7 per cent of the increased risk. “They

re-engineer T-cells to attack a form of leukaemia. Last year, an international company called Adaptimmune used the approach to treat 13 people with multiple myeloma – it left 10 in remission.

“Although it’s early days for these trials, the approach of modifying a patient’s T-cells to attack their cancer is looking increasingly like one that will, in time, have a place alongside more traditional treatments,” says Paul Moss of Cancer Research UK. Sadelain’s team is now investigating the scope for attacking other cancers. Where no single surface molecule is unique to a cancer, he is seeking to target pairs of molecules that only occur together on cancer cells.

In January, he demonstrated this approach by wiping out human prostate tumours implanted in mice, using T-cells engineered to target two surface molecules

explain very little of our findings,” says Roberts.

Life-long stress What else might be going on? One possibility is that women who experience abuse undergo “epigenetic” modifications to their DNA, which affect gene activity and may be passed onto their children.

Alternatively, Roberts suggests that abuse as a child may alter a woman’s stress responses, perhaps causing inflammation that could harm the developing brain of a fetus.

“My first thought was stress and anxiety in women that extends throughout their lives,” agrees Gardener. “It highlights the fact that the effects of abuse on children are really quite varied and long-lasting.”

However, Gardener emphasises that autism remains a relatively rare condition, and she hopes that the new findings do not make women who were abused as children think twice about having children of their own. Even among the highest-risk group in the new study, less than 1 in 50 of the women who became mothers had a child with autism.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Who will win cross country?

In a couple of days, we will have our annual Cross Country cycling classic race. Riders from all over the country and even from other parts of the world will be in this race. It has been a bittersweet experience for Belizeans as we eagerly wait for a Belizean to cross the finish line first, but most times find that possibility dwindling away in the darkness! Luckily, last year Giovanni Choto showed us Belizeans had the talent to win the garland. No one can predict with certainty who will win this race as there are many factors that come into play. We are slowly becoming accustomed to the reality that the race is not just a race for Belizeans but it is now of international standards!

I remember riding my first professional race which was the Belmopan cycling classic. I was so nervous that I went to the bathroom to urine about ten times before I left my house, and to my surprise as the race started I wanted to go to the bathroom yet again. I rode all the way to Belmopan holding it in but could go no longer when I reached the ring road! Now, I had to stop and deal with business and later on found out that I stopped at the wrong place. See, the race speeds up at the ring road due to station prizes!

When I looked up everyone was gone and the place was deserted! It is hard to predict a race when you have such talented people participating in it, and so many factors can change the outcome of even the best of riders!

Well, today I would like to talk with you about another competition that is celebrated around the same time as the Belize Cross Country. It is better known as Easter.

There was a boxing match that happened in the country of the Kingdom, and whoever lost had to leave town! One of the boxers was an angel called Lucifer who fought dirty always hitting under the belt and not following the boxing rules. He lost the fight and was kicked out of heaven and landed on earth. He decided he would fight even dirtier and began to use the created children in the Kingdom as punching bags. The referee sent the reigning champion to earth to finish the match. This was one race that in Belizean terms was “chancy�. This man had all power against Lucifer. The champion did what he had to do in as little as three rounds (days) and came back up with the championship belt and the keys of hell death and the grave! This champion is so special that even those who do not believe in him, who curse his name, or who believe in other gods, take the time out to celebrate his birth and to celebrate his death and resurrection. He came, rode the Cross Country and won it with ease; only, he leaves the garland with us that whosoever believeth in him can also be guaranteed winners, never loosing another race!

I tell you the truth, this is one foreigner I am personally rooting for, and I encourage you to do whatever is necessary, let go whatever you have to, say whatever you have to say to get on his team, as he extends an open invitation to all men that none should perish but have everlasting life!

I encourage you RIDE FOR YOUR LIFE!!!!

Until next week, God Bless.

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Chronic Fatigue Syndrome If you are among those who suffer from extreme tiredness

By Dr. Francis Smith despite adequate rest and if there is no underlying illness to explain your condition, you may be suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome.

What is it?

Chronic fatigue syndrome is similar to fibromyalgia but they are not the same. Both illnesses are serious chronic illnesses with their own diagnostic criteria. Many patients have symptoms which meet the diagnostic criteria for both.

After ruling out other illnesses like hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, your doctor may diagnose chronic fatigue syndrome if you have unexplained, persistent tiredness or fatigue for six months or more, along with at least four of the following signs and symptoms: difficulty concentrating or memory problems, generalized muscle pain, multiple joint pain, headaches, sore throat (or flu-like syndromes), enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or armpits, tiredness despite adequate hours of sleep and extreme exhaustion lasting more than 24 hours after physical or mental activity. Chronic fatigue syndrome may complicate with depression, restrictions in social activity and increased sick leaves.

There are no diagnostic tests like laboratory, x-rays or C.T. scans for chronic fatigue syndrome.

What’s the Cause?

What causes chronic fatigue syndrome is uncertain and may be multi-factorial. Researchers believe that viruses can cause the illness, as well as problems with the immune system and hormonal imbalances.

Risk factors Risk factors include age (mostly affects people between the ages of 40 and 60), sex (mostly affects women), and overweight people with sedentary lifestyles.

Treatment Medication may include antidepressants which improve sleep and help relieve pain, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (Advil or Alleve), sleeping pills, psychological counseling and physical therapy. Alternative medicine such as acupuncture, massage, yoga or tai chi may be of help.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Remarks by Hon. Jose Mai on the Budget for fiscal year 2013/2014 Continued from page 19 egg? We need to bet and invest more on the winners!

Sugar Industry Turning to Sugar Industry and the Accompanying Measure to Sugar Mr. Speaker, Cane farmers are excited with the on-going programs that can make a real difference: (i) To establish an appropriate credit facility for replanting and rehabilitation of cane fields (ii) Institutional strengthening of SIRDI and other sugar related institutions (BSCFA, SICB).

But there is room for improvement, Mr. Speaker. The Credit facility being done through DFC is moving extremely slow. Of the 405 farmers who applied, 300 applied on Jan 3-7 and 105 after Jan 7. Of these, 381 (with 1770 acres) were recommended by SICB technicians between Jan and Feb, but to date only 88 have been approved by DFC, and some have not even been informed.

If the program is to be successful, DFC must move efficiently and expeditiously… The mill is expecting 1.2 m tons of cane beginning Dec 2013. We cannot afford to “lamp up” Mr. Speaker. DFC personnel must be made to understand that timing is critical in agriculture. The weather patterns are fixed. When it will rain, it will rain!!!

Secondly, Mr. Speaker, we urge the GoB to enter into negotiation with the EU to expand the credit program to include Ratoon Management to complement the rehabilitation program. The 17.5 million dollar approval by ASR’s Management to increase processing capacity demands productivity and it can only be achieved by increasing agro-inputs and management.

Mr. Speaker, I must also mention that the Sugar Board must continue to perform in its maximum capacity and must hold meetings as is required. The last meeting of the Sugar Board was held more than one year ago. That practice is unacceptable for a dynamic, productive industry, and this should be corrected immediately.

The Prime Minister mentioned in his presentation, that the sugar cane price was adjusted upward from $68.12 to $72.12 per ton, but let me remind the cane farmers that the price this year as promised by a Government supported ASR, will be in the vicinity of $72.12 plus $15.00 per ton bringing the price well above the $85.00 mark.

Given the very high cost of operations farmers really deserve this price and therefore we will hold them to their word, Mr. Speaker.

Citrus Mr. Speaker, the presentation states that citrus posted a 14.3% increase, which essentially is a recovery from poor performance the year before. This Mr. Speaker creates no new jobs or greater opportunity for citrus farmers. The citrus industry continues to suffer from a lack of leadership and internal struggle. The GoB’s only intervention in citrus is crisis management. The Citrus Control Board, similarly like in the case of the Sugar Board, has not met in a very long time.

Citrus Greening Citrus Greening Disease continues to ravage the valley, gradually transferring farms into low producing orchards and finally into a graveyard of once healthy producing plants. Yet the 2013-2014 Revenue and Expenditures makes absolutely no mention of allocations for the disease management or for the establishment of new and certified seedlings. Privately owned nurseries are now selling seedlings at prices of $10-$15, which is unbearable to the small producers.

Orange Walk South Mr. Speaker, in winding down my presentation, I want to convey the request of the people of OW South Constituency.

Mr Speaker, my constituents and rural families are not begging for hands out. They are purely asking for an opportunity to improve themselves . They are ready to work and commit with their resources and sweat-equity towards the achievement of their aspirations and those of their communities.

Hence: 1. We ask that the Lot A project component, under the AMS, Orange Walk to San Lazaro be completed.

2. We ask that Lot B project component, under AMS, San

Lazaro to August Pine Ridge be implemented as early as possible 3. We asked that the village streets be repaired 4. We ask that the government work towards creating a favourable environment where our young people can have dignified employment 5. We call on the Ministry of Education/Agriculture/ Rural Development and other line ministries to support the back yard gardens programs in order to mitigate the effects of poverty, the high cost of food and to improve health and nutrition plaguing the rural communities 6. We ask that the feeder roads be repaired to acceptable standards… do the job well and stop the hustling.

7. Mr. Speaker, we urge the Ministry of Agriculture marketing component to aggressively seek markets for our nontraditional commodities. Farmers have benefited in the past from lucrative export markets…. We can do it again! Revive the Agric Extension Service!!!

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8. We ask that the Ministry of Agriculture to continue supporting the onion, potato, carrots and other seasonal vegetables programs… important for import substitution.

9. We ask that cottage level agro processing program be strengthened and expanded to more rural communities as a source of valuable income, empowering youth, women and single mothers.

10. We congratulate the Ministry of Agriculture and BAHA for so far having success in the Cattle Sweep Program and urge that a Beef Production Program Plan be initiated and complemented with Pasture Improvement Program in order to meet the market demand when the Cattle Sweep is over and the outflow of cattle begins.

Conclusion: I thank you Mr. Speaker, and may God bless our farmers, our producers, and especially bless those who toil every day, as Pope Francis stated; for others who are the poor, the vulnerable and the voiceless.

God bless Belize!!

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Convicted Guat escapes Police Custody

Walter Leonel Boteo Ralda

Belize City, March 25, 2013 Two Police Officers face criminal charges after they reportedly assisted a Guatemalan prisoner to escape from Police custody at the San Ignacio Police Station.

22 year old Walter Leonel Boteo Ralda was convicted of being in possession of an unlicensed gun, which he stole from

a Canadian National. The theft victim said $10,000 was also taken from his house.

Ralda was sentenced to five years in prison, but somehow he managed to escape from inside his cell last Monday, March 18th, while there was a shift for the officers at the station.

In an attempt to avoid public embarrassment, the incident

OW business shut down for Casino-type machines Orange Walk Town, March 18, 2013 Route 88 Limited Sports Bar, a business located on Belize-Corozal Road in Orange Walk Town, has been shut down by the local authorities after an inspection of its premises revealed more than 40 gaming machines at the business place.

The business, owned by Chinese businessman Jian Xing Cheng, had applied for a malt and cider license to op-

Traitor vs.

Teacher Continued from page 9 ceiving the people. Remember the Association of Concerned Belizeans (ACB) in 2008? After that election, each and every member was rewarded with lucrative contracts, and despite turmoil in every sector of society, the ACB have not been heard from since.

In 2012, it was one man, one deceiver, one traitor that gave Barrow the winning hand, and for that he has been rewarded with over $3,000,000 and counting.

Not only is this payout a slap in the face of our teachers, but to add insult to injury, Barrow and Finny are now gloating over the fact that they successfully solicited, baited and landed the treacherous shark on their ship, while at the same time dodging the million dollar question: how many more millions will the shark get while teachers struggle to get by each day?

But what Barrow doesn’t realize is that the teachers are unto him.

They can smell the big, stinking dead rat. They know that when Barrow’s operatives are out there talking about inconsequential issues like legalizing marijuana or dismantling the Bar Association, it is all one big distraction. The budget debate may be over, but that does not in any way mean that the game is over. No longer will teachers be taken lightly. This budget will be remembered as the straw that broke the camel’s back and that camel’s name is Dean Oliver Barrow.

Frazer’s cake is done, Barrow’s goose is cooked. The teachers di come!

erate a sports bar.

The discovery led to the revocation of Route 88’s trade and liquor licenses by the Orange Walk Town Council and the Liquor License Board. This was followed by a stop order, issued by the Central Building Authority, which ordered Cheng to cease any building on the site.

In an interview with CTV-3 News in Orange Walk, Mayor Kevin Bernard, said that the Council was alarmed when it discovered the 40 plus machines because that would suggest that a casino-type business was in the making.

Mayor Bernard indicated that his Council has a policy against Casinos, the continuation of a policy observed by previous Town Councils.

The previous Council, in which Bernard served as a Councillor, had rejected an application for a Casino-type. This was supported by the local Church leaders and residents.

Mayor Bernard said that while a Casino may provide some employment, the ills and social breakdown that will come as

a consequence are a major concern.

“I will stand my ground on that again and this Council will not allow any casino or casino type establishment to operate within this municipality.

Reason for that is that our social profit in this municipality is already decaying. If we should allow such type of business- we are just continuing to add more to the poverty and difficult situation that people are under.” Mayor Bernard said.

The Mayor added that he believes the machines were imported into Belize with the knowledge of the Ministry of Finance or Economic Development, and he expects some pressure to come from “up top”, but he and his Council will stand their ground.

went unreported to the public.

But the news has spilled and Cayo Police are offering little explanation.

The Guatemalan is believed to have escaped for good, considering the close proximity to his country of birth.

The names of the Police Officers who have been implicated have not been released.

U.S. citizen busted with false passport Corozal District, March 25, 2013 Belize authorities have expelled United States citizen, Daniel Rae Morris, after he was busted at the northern border attempting to enter Belize with a false passport.

According to reports, Morris showed up at the Immigration desk with a passport that didn’t belong to him. The passport had his name and date of birth, but the number corresponded with one issued to a Belizean. This occurred on Wednesday March 21st.

Upon recognising the felony, Immigration officials cross-checked with local Police and U.S. authorities, only to discover that Morris is a fugitive of the law in the United States.

The BELIZE TIMES has discovered that Morris was convicted of fraud in the United States.

70 year old Morris was then taken to the Corzoal Magistrate’s Court on Thursday and fined $2,000.

He was then expelled from Belize on Monday March 25th.

32

THE BELIZE TIMES

31 MAR

2013