Vol. 24 No. 18 Sunday, May 2, 2021 Page 2 The GuardIan Sunday, May 2, 2021 $5 Million More and NO Vaccine Education for the Poor! By Shane D. Williams The government of Belize is borrowing five million dollars to purchase 238,000 additional doses of AstraZeneca’s Covid- 19 vaccine, but have revealed no plan to get the vaccines into the arms of poor and less educated citizens. This important endeavor requires an education campaign comparable to that of the ICJ Referendum because the people who can least afford to be hospitalized with Covid-19 are not visiting the vaccination sites for several reasons. Chief among those reasons is misinformation. News of the halting of vaccine distribution due to reports of blood clots Astrazeneca COVID-19 vaccine was broadcasted sensationally, risk of getting a blood clot if recipients of the vaccine, public tests) and our case mortality rate with no effort to later educate you take the vaccine. Although confidence in vaccines have stands at 2.55 percent. The risk the masses on the rarity and European experts who studied dropped significantly. of blood clot associated with the uncertainty of a link between the link between vaccines and The latest information from AstraZeneca vaccine is 0.000004 vaccines and reported cases of blood clots found that there is the Ministry of Health shows a percent and the risk of death is blood clots. Therefore, word a possible risk of blood clot 0.11 percent positivity rate for 0.000001 percent. Therefore, the on the streets to grassroots for one in 250,000, and a risk Covid-19 tests (the majority risk of getting tested positive and communities is that there is a of death for one in a million taken with the less reliable rapid dying from Covid-19 in Belize is seven times higher than the possibility of getting a blood clot from the AstraZeneca vaccine. $0.00 for Social Assistance; And for perspective, the risk of blood clots for women taking $0.00 for COVID-19 Food Assistance birth control is 250 times greater T h e P e o p l e ’s U n i t e d under capital III expenditure, income after losing their jobs than taking the vaccine, at 0.1 Party administration this week there is literally an allocation of as a result of the pandemic. percent. completed the process of $0 for Social Assistance. There There is now no such support These figures are a lot presenting the budget. We at The is also $0 allocated for COVID- structure with no allocation to to digest, so data is much Guardian have been perusing 19 Food Assistance. these program. A few weeks ago, more difficult to spread than some aspects of the budget that It is noteworthy that these Minister of Human Development, misinformation. This is why there are critical at this point in time. were the programs which were Dolores Balderamos Garcia needs to be serious investment in One of the glaring figures that being called upon to support stated that there is a 3 million a vaccine education campaign that jumped at us on our review is at the Belizean people during dollar allocation to support can reach grassroots communities. page 192. the pandemic. The assistance the government’s grocery bag If an ICJ education approach is Under the Ministry of channeled through these program, however we are yet to not taken, the poor people will be Human Development, Families programs were integral in find this allocation in the budget left behind to die from a disease and Indigenous People’s Affairs, assisting families which had no estimates. that is now treatable. The Guardian Protecting Freedom Rights Democracy

Editor: Alfonso Noble ADVERTISING Louis Thompson Compositor: Kristen Jimenez Reporter: Jem Smith RECEPTIONIST/ACCOUNTS CLERK Vanessa Gillett Published by The Guardian Newspaper Limited Cor. Ebony St. & Bel China Bridge, P. O. Box 1898 Belize City, Belize Telephone: 207-5346, 207-5347 Fax: 227-5343 E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected] Website: www.guardian.bz Printed by The Guardian Press Cor. Ebony St. & Bel China Bridge, P. O. Box 1898 Belize City, Belize Page 3 The GuardIan Sunday, May 2, 2021 Page 4 The GuardIan Sunday, May 2, 2021 STRIKE! PUP BUDGET: NOTHING FROM NOTHING A few weeks ago when would place a number of public PM Briceño rolled out his sector workers below the tax teleprompter and read his virgin bracket, and it will also cut the budget speech we all knew that amount of taxable income those it was lean. It was not until we in the tax bracket earn, thereby were able to go through the actual cutting government revenue numbers that we were able to from Income Tax (PAYE). understand that the budget was We have been searching for so lean that not only was there no an explanation as to how that fat in the budget, but there is also would be achieved, and the only absolutely no flesh on it either. plausible explanation is that If the budget were a person, government will be lowering the Belize National Teacher’s Union has engaged in strike action that person would be considered Income Tax threshold. Recently As of Monday April 26th the budget debate. Earlier last anorexic. Not one single line a number of employers at various , the Belize National Teacher’s week they took to public places item on the expenditure side business houses informed us Union has engaged in strike action carrying placards displaying of the budget was left uncut. about an exercise by the tax in protest of the Government of their discontent with the salary Cuts were done in places where department, where they are Belize’s decision to cut their cut. On Monday they ramped up already it was bare bones. In those going to business houses seeking salaries. They will be joined by their actions by demonstrating instances entire programs, even employees income information. the Public Service Union who across the country in parades necessary programs were cut. It is perhaps the result of that will commence their action at the various municipalities. For example a few days before survey which will be the basis on May 3. The PSU had given This was followed by more the budget debate the Minister on which a new lowered tax their 21 day notice for industrial demonstrations at the National of Human Services boasted about threshold would be done. There action on April 12 and that notice Assembly when the Senate met a measly 3 million dollars that is also another scenario, and it is expires on May 3. to discuss the budget. had been allocated for Covid-19 that the government will be hiring The BNTU has prefaced BNTU members say they are food assistance, however when a goodly number of high-paid their strike action with prepared to maintain their strike we checked on page 192 of the individuals, and they would then demonstrations at the National despite the possibility of not budget, there was absolutely be taxed. Assembly on Thursday and getting paid by the government nothing there for Covid-19 food The few things we pointed Friday of last week during while they are on strike. assistance in 2021/2022. The out are just a few of the type of monies were cut from almost cuts, and the new expenses in 28 million dollars in 2020/2021 the budget. These are cuts and to ZERO for 2021/2022. Then expenditures that we could do Pensioners take five lines above that there is without at this time, and in the nothing under the line item ‘ budget these extend to almost a $5 Million cut Social Assistance’. These cuts every government department. Prime Minister, Johnny di month in pension.” Another come at an inopportune time, Another interesting fact that Briceño appeared on Love FM’s stated that, “it is crazy cause you when Belizeans need the most was noted is that during the morning show on Wednesday barely can pay for meds. And the assistance due to the economic budget debate the members of where he confirmed that cut in pension will affect me a lot depression that many of them are the government side shied away pensioners will be taking a cut cause my pension pay my loan at facing, brought on by the COVID- from discussing the budget, and as well. Currently public officers HRCU.” Yet another pensioner 19 pandemic having rendered how it would affect their various and teachers are at odds with stated that when she heard the many of them unemployed. ministries and the delivery of the government after the budget announcement, “I had to walk What we did find in the services. Only three ministers presented last week reflected a back way.” budget is an $84,562,977 which actually discussed their ministries, salary cut to the total sum of 80 Economists suggest that has been approved for the Ministry while the other members spoke million dollars. All along the Government’s decision to take of Infrastructure Development about their victory at the polls Government had not disclosed from public officers, teachers and and Housing, to be spent on and why they believed they won. if pensioners would be affected pensioners will cause an economic infrastructure. Spending that sort Then there were others who until Wednesday, when Briceño ripple effect that will further stunt of money on infrastructure is a were completely lost and just noted that public officer who the country’s performance. They stark contrast to what the PUP made incoherent speeches. In are on pension will also receive argue that given the reduction used to preach when they were short the government failed to a cut. Briceño says this cut will in disposable income of public in opposition. Their cry back defend its budget. This budget is yield Government some 5 million officers, which is an economic then was that people could not a budget of nothing, and it will dollars less in expenditure. driver, the economic condition eat roads, street and concrete, visit hard times on Belizeans, For some retirees we in Belize will just worsen. At this and that those monies would be the likes of which we have never spoke with, they expressed their point in time, it is advisable that better spent on people centered seen before. After reading the discontent with the move. One government increase spending initiatives. Then the budget budget we almost started to miss officer stated that “We wah dead rather than cut down in order to estimates show that last financial Said Musa and Ralph Fonseca. fi hungry… I only get $394 fi stimulate economic activity. year, Government collected Ashcroft was right last week $86,526,069 from Income Tax when he said that Johnny needs (PAYE), but this year that will to resign, in fact the entire PUP increase by $18,652,607, which needs to resign and allow the Classifieds would be a 22% increase. That UDP to return to right this ship Liquor License Notice - Notice is hereby given that under the Intoxicating is a very interesting situation that the PUP is about to run on Liquor Licence Ordinance Chapter 150 of the Laws of Belize, Revised considering that a 10% salary cut the reef. Edition 2000, that Sajjad Miah and Forhad Miah are applying for the renewal of a Shop Liquor License for the year 2021 to operate “FS Dollar Shop & Laundromat” located at 97 George Street, Belize City. See News 207-5346 Liquor License Notice - Notice is hereby given that under the Intoxicating in the Guardian Liquor Licence Ordinance Chapter 150 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Newspaper Edition 2000, that Masum Ahmed, Mahfuj Ahmed, and MD Nazmul Making? Hoque are applying for the renewal of a Shop Liquor License for the year 2021 to operate “J.K Grocery” located at 23 Wood Street, Belize City. Call the Guardian Page 5 The GuardIan Sunday, May 2, 2021 )"11: LABOUR DAY

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4"'& From Party Leader, Hon. Patrick Faber, The Guardian Newspaper, Wave Radio & TV, and the entire UDP family! Page 6 The GuardIan Sunday, May 2, 2021 COVID-19 cases and death Union Boycotts “Hate fatality rate on the rise for Profit” Media Houses By Shane D. Williams The Public Service Union and Belize National Teachers Union are now boycotting “hate for profit” media houses who are playing advertisements that are attacking union leaders. The union leaders say they understand that media houses rely on advertisements for revenue, but there is a moral responsibility that comes with broadcasting. Senator Elena Smith Senator Elena Smith, BNTU in the best interest of Belize… President, asked reporters on It is our view that the narrative Monday, “Are you going to sell being promoted out there is one of your soul to the devil for some hatred. It is one of division.” money?” She says some media None of the national union houses have been fair and have executives pinpointed any specific allowed them to appear on shows media houses that are targets of to present their position, but the boycott; however, the first others have been disrespectful call for a boycott was by the and unfair in their coverage. BNTU Benque branch asking for COVID-19 statistics She did not name specific media members and supporters to unlike Just one week ago, on where we were just under a year houses that will be boycotted the social media pages of Love Wednesday, April 21, data from ago. Since early April, the number but said it is “the ones that have FM and Breaking Belize News. the Ministry of Health and of cases has slowly but steadily taken the hard and fast position Following notice of the Wellness (MOHW) recorded increased, despite more and more that they are going to be going union’s boycott of unethical media 93 active cases of COVID-19 persons being vaccinated, and against us and call us stupid and houses; Love FM decided to in the country, while the death COVID-19 curfew and other stupider and all kinds of things on publish a photo of an individual toll stood at 318. Now, one week quarantine regulations still being their show”. holding up a racy placard against later, there are 107 active cases in place. As of April 28, more The Public Service Union in government’s proposed salary and 323 total deaths recorded. In than 41,000 persons have at its announcement of the boycott cut that was distasteful. There the recent weeks, there has been least received the first dose of said, “the Union does not believe is no evidence to confirm that the slow but steady increase in the 2-dose AstraZeneca vaccine that the promotion of hate for profit the individual holding up the cases of COVID-19, with a sharp currently being offered by the should form part of any media placard is a member of the union increase in the number of cases Ministry. organization business model.” In or even a teacher. The photo following the Easter weekend Given these increasing an interview with News 5, PSU didn’t show that the shirt is an and its activities. Prior to this numbers as well as an increasing Vice-President Dean Flowers said, official BNTU T-shirt. That did week, there were as many as fatality rate, which currently “The ads, which I must add are not stop Love FM from sharing 39 confirmed cases recorded in stands at 2.56%, the general state sponsored and state created, the image with an article titled just one week, when there was public is encouraged to become attempt to portray the unions as “Teachers Get Vulgar”. This was an increase from 54 to 93 active vaccinated if and when possible, being anti-Belize. The unions are just another example of what cases in the country. While this and to practice social distancing certainly not anti- Belize. We are the union members are calling week’s climb has not been as and the proper use of face masks pro-Belize, and we are for Belize. irresponsible reporting by the large of a jump, the 14 new cases when in public. And we will always be that way press. and five more deaths within this one week is of concern to the Ministry as well as the general public. The Ministry had, for Senate votes for economic hard time months on end, managed to work T h e S e n a t e m e t o n to maintain low numbers and Wednesday, April 28, and had begun to take a number of debated the 2021-2022 budget. approaches to lower the national After the senators gave their total as well as the total number input, a division of the Senate of deaths. For weeks, there were was asked for by the Leader of little to no deaths recorded, and the UDP in the Senate, Hon. very small numbers of cases Michael Peyrefitte. At the end, 4 recorded in large spaces of time. senators including Hon. Michael These latest versions of data from Peyrefitte, Hon. Sheena Pitts and the Ministry are telling a very Hon. Aldo Salazar representing different story, and it might seem the UDP voted not to have the that we are now headed toward budget passed as it would pass undue hard times to teachers and public officers. The one other senator who voted against the budget, herself being affected by the salary cut and increment freeze was Senator Elena Smith. Hon. Osmany Salas, who Sen. Eamon Courtenay represents the NGO community, the PUP, the churches and the In the end there were 8 abstained, while all other senators business community voted for the who voted yes, 4 voted no and 1 including those representing senate to pass the Budget. abstention. Page 7 The GuardIan Sunday, May 2, 2021 Government vehicle crashes after hours Just before midnight on Friday, April 23, a vehicle assigned to the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing was involved in a road traffic accident. It took place in San Ignacio where the driver of the vehicle reported that he lost control of the vehicle while returning home. As a result, he drove off the road, hit a culvert, and flipped. The driver, Jose Dominguez, indicated to police that he fell asleep at the wheel of the ministry assigned Toyota Hilux, causing the accident. According to Head of the National Crimes Investigation Branch ACP Joseph Myvett, police responded to the scene shortly after 11:00 p.m. where they observed the overturned Hilux pickup truck. They also met Dominguez, a 42-year-old engineer with the Ministry, who Government vehicle flipped in San Ignacio had minor injuries to his body. the Ministry clarified that there will have to be on call outside of on weekends to respond to work He was taken to the San Ignacio are times when technical officers normal working hours, and even and road-related situations. Community Hospital where he received treatment for his injuries, and samples were taken from him. The front portion of the vehicle received extensive damages, and according to ACP Myvett, Dominguez did not indicate whether or not he had permission or authority to use the vehicle. Since this accident, a statement was released by the Ministry to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident. The release indicates that the driver, who has been working with the Ministry for more than a decade, was on a field trip to monitor and inspect ongoing contract works between several miles of both the Philip Goldson and George Price highways. It continues to state that based on police investigations, it was learnt that the driver breached the Ministry’s internal vehicle use policy, and as a result, the Ministry “intends to write to the Public Service Commission recommending that the public officer be suspended without pay and be surcharged for damages to the vehicle.” A number of citizens have made issue that the vehicle was out beyond Ministry working hours, but the release continues to say that notwithstanding the fact that the accident took place after hours,

For the latest in news - it’s the Guardian! Page 8 The GuardIan Sunday, May 2, 2021 Earth Day Belizean twin sisters celebrated in Cayo head to Jamaica on athletic scholarships

Students plant at Eden High School on Earth Day

Ashanti and Ashonti Carr Twin sisters Ashanti and sisters received tickets for their Ashonti Carr are making their flights, traveling, spending, family and the wider Belizean housing, and grocery money, community proud with their laptops, and other essentials. recent athletic and academic G i v e n t h e c u r r e n t achievements. The young circumstances, with sports women, who have been engaged having taken quite a long pause in track and field as well as other due to the COVID-19 situation sporting disciplines for almost in Belize, their trainings have a decade now, have begun to proven undoubtedly difficult, reap the benefits of their labor. but the sisters say that they They have both been enrolled were dedicated and encouraged in the University of Technology enough to power through. In The Rotaract Club of Benque participate in Earth Day in Kingston, Jamaica on athletic most instances, they trained Earth Day was celebrated while also promoting a greener scholarships and have recently twice a day to maintain their in the Cayo District on Thursday environment. Several flowering gone back to continue their standards. For now, their main April 22nd, with a groundbreaking plants were also added to the new studies there. The much needed focus is to continue pursuing ceremony for a Garden Project gardens, to keep creating more assistance came in part through their educational goals, while held at the Eden Seventh flower beds for the school. The the Belize Sport Council and maintaining a balance of their Day Adventist High School Rotaract Club of Benque wishes the Rogers Stadium Physical athletic objectives, with the hope agriculture ground in Santa to thank Melvin Manzanero for Cultural Sporting Club to get of being selected to participate in Elena. Principal Erodito Pineda assisting with this project. them back to Jamaica. The Carr competitions during this year. was present to greet Mayor Earl Trapp Jr, who participated in the event. The School Garden Project came together with the help of San Ignacio & Santa Elena Town Council, the Scout Association of Belize, The San Ignacio and Santa Elena Sustainable Child-friendly Municipality - Children Advisory Body, and other partners. The Community Garden will provide fresh organic food and seedlings for the people of San Ignacio and Santa Elena Town. It will provide a base for educational programs for everyone willing to start growing their own home garden. Simultaneously with the event occurring in Santa Elena, the Rotaract Club of Benque Viejo conducting a tree-planting at the Benque House of Culture. In the afternoon the Rotaract club also made their way to Mount Carmel R.C. Primary School to initiate their school garden project. With the school garden project in Benque, the Rotaract Club aims to beautify the school Page 9 The GuardIan Sunday, May 2, 2021 World Malaria Day Migrant hub inaugurated is celebrated worldwide in southern Belize as Belize continues to take steps to be “Malaria free”

Mobile Migrant Hub in San Antonio, Toledo So far, the Mobile Migrant afraid to pose, making a world Hub has made its way to the of a difference to them. He says southernmost district of Toledo, that the message he intends for in the village of San Antonio to people to take away is that the be specific, where information and Hubs represent a safe place; “If services to migrants for safe and you have been irregular for a orderly migration were offered. It while, if you’re not sure what Anopheles mosquitoe that can transmit malaria is a part of the US government’s you qualify for, this is the place Sunday, April 25 was to meeting that certification initiative through the United to come, to get the information celebrated around the world as by WHO is maintaining three States Agency for International you need to understand what the World Malaria Day. This annual consecutive years without having Development (USAID) and the process is. And it can be complex, event is a worldwide effort to to record a case of malaria. As a International Organization for it can be difficult, but come here raise awareness of the disease, result, if we are able to reach Migration (IOM) in Belize, to offer and ask those questions. This is a as well as funds for the treatment December 2021 without a local a single location where migrants as safe place to find out what you’re and prevention of malaria. It is case, we will be eligible to well as other Belizean citizens can eligible for.” a serious and sometimes fatal apply to WHO to commence receive information and services Between February and disease caused by a parasite the “Malaria free” certification benefiting them. This includes the March 2021, some 527 persons that commonly infects a certain process. facilitation of obtaining foreign utilized the services of the type of mosquito which in turn While we have come a national documents for migrants Migrant Hub during its visits to feeds on humans. People who very long way, our malaria who meet the requirements in the communities of Bella Vista, get malaria are typically very cases have not always been Belize, as well as applications for Valley of Peace, and Benque sick with high fevers, shaking negligible to none. In the 1990s, work permits, birth certificates, Viejo. These three initial Hubs chills, and flu-like illness. It is a there were thousands of cases and other documents. This is just came through the partnership of disease which continues to infect recorded in the country but over one of the first and according to a USAID, IOM, the United Nations thousands of people per year, with time, an initiative to eliminate press release, the main intention Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the the World Health Organization the mosquito-borne infectious of these Migrant Hub activities United Nations Population Fund (WHO) estimating that in 2019, disease was put in place. Within is to care for migrants in Belize (UNFPA), and United Nations 229 million clinical cases of a few years, the number of cases who would otherwise be hesitant High Commissioner for Refugees malaria occurred and as many as fell drastically and by 2018, we to regularize their immigration (UNHCR). Their success led to 409,000 people died of malaria, saw our last local case. Without status for fear of being prosecuted the expansion of these Migrant most of them children in Africa. the efforts of our healthcare or deported. Keith Gilges, Chargé Hubs across Belize and between Because malaria causes so much professionals, especially those d’Affaires at United States May and August, it will visit illness and death, the disease is within the Vector Control Unit Embassy in Belize, explained several more municipalities. a great drain on many national at the Ministry of Health and the complexity of migration. A 2-day visit is planned for economies. Since many countries Wellness (MOHW), we might Still, he says, migrants should be Placencia on May 15 and 16. It with malaria are already among have still been facing hundreds able to feel that they are entitled will then travel to Corozal on June the poorer nations, the disease if not thousands of cases. Their to these services despite those 12 and to Orange Walk on June maintains a vicious cycle of work over the years has been complexities. The Migrant Hub 13. On June 26, it will be in San disease and poverty. Because of extensive, from being on the helps to lessen the difficulties Pedro and in Belize City on July these drastic and very real effects, ground to test and screen to and to answer whatever questions 17. Finally on August 14, the Hub country leaders, frontline health more large scale activities such migrants might otherwise be will go to Dangriga. workers, and global partners as residual spraying and the come together ahead of World distribution of insecticides in Malaria Day in a virtual forum to target communities. COVID-19 NOTICE share experiences and reflections restrictions also helped to play A & A Investment & Consultancy Limited on efforts to reach the target of a part as we saw the closing (“the Company”) zero malaria. of our borders and the drastic In Belize, however, it has decrease in illegal crossings, but Notice is hereby given to all interested parties that A & A Investment not for some time been a national as we approach the rainy season & Consultancy Limited incorporated under the Belize IBC Act issue and according to health in Belize, the Unit will need (Chapter 270), commenced dissolution on April 27th, 2021, and experts, we are closer to that to revamp its campaigns and Mr. Vineet Malhotra, of 155 Bradstowe House Headstone Road, target than other countries. Our preventative ground work. HARROW, Middlesex, HA1 1EL, United Kingdom is the Liquidator country’s last local malaria case But the public can also of the Company. Any claims against the Company should be was in December 2018, more help to play its part by emptying forwarded to the Liquidator (Email: [email protected] than two years ago. Because of containers of settled water, and telephone No. +44 7577607427 by May 17th, 2021. this feat, we are on the track to which often serve as breeding becoming “Malaria free”. One sites for mosquitoes, and to Orion Corporate & Trust Services Ltd. of the most important criteria remain informed. Registered Agent Page 10 The GuardIan Sunday, May 2, 2021 The COVID-19 experience in India As the numbers of COVID- from a public health perspective, 19 cases and deaths in India it makes sense to assume this is continue to mount, Time magazine what’s going on—the response now describes how public health should be to urge people to take officials are carefully watching preventive actions like wearing yet another looming threat: masks and social distancing even the appearance of mutations if they have been infected in the that could be making the virus past, which would be beneficial circulating there more infectious during an epidemic whether or or more capable of causing severe not the virus is spreading among disease. the previously infected. “We Scientists believe that should be planning for the worst the variants of SARS-CoV-2 case scenario and assume people responsible for this second wave are being reinfected. There’s not of cases in India already include much lost by over-calling it, since at least two mutations that make A large number of persons are now dying in India the rate of infection is already so them more dangerous. These there.” phenomenon—in which people high,” says Gupta. mutations are already familiar Chanda says it’s likely that are infected and only partially As countries including the to COVID-19 experts. One is the mutations evolved from successful in fighting the virus U.K. and U.S. start to send supplies found in a variant first identified the excessive replication that’s so they continue to harbor the and aid, India’s experience should in South Africa, while the other occurring among the burgeoning infection for months rather than serve as a warning for the world. is part of a variant believed to infections in India. With every days—as “suboptimal protection.” The Indian variant has already have emerged from California. new person the virus infects, it has In one such patient, who was been reported in the U.K. and Researchers believe that these two a new opportunity to frantically infected for about four months, Japan, and samples from the U.S. mutations may, respectively, make copy its genome. And in its rush Gupta documented the steady also appear to contain the variant’s it easier for the virus to infect to duplicate its genome, the virus changes the virus made as it genetic fingerprint, so building up human cells, and to evade the makes mistakes—repeatedly— mutated to become better and immunity quickly through mass protection provided by immune and those mistakes sometimes better at evading any immune vaccination is more critical than cells like antibodies. According end up making the virus fitter responses directed against it. ever. to the latest data from the public and stronger. Those “mistake” “Some people can’t clear the “India is a cautionary tale that genome database GISAID, 38% versions become variants that start virus—they get infected and if we open up bars willy nilly, this of genetically sequenced samples to outcompete and dominate other, they can’t get rid of it—so they could happen to us,” says Chanda. from India collected in March less fit viruses. have some immunity to the virus “We are at the point now [in the contain the two mutations— For the people the virus but the virus learns to live with U.S.] where we have suboptimal scientists have labelled this the infects, that could also mean a their immune system, and makes immunity because people are still B.1.617 variant. viral variant that causes more mutations to adapt. And those being vaccinated.” That is, this “It’s taken us by surprise,” severe, and even deadly disease. same mutations adapt again when is exactly the time that the virus says Dr. Ravindra Gupta, Following India’s first wave they infect someone else.” has enough room to maneuver, professor of clinical microbiology of COVID-19 in the spring of It’s not clear if this is and genetically adapt to evade at the University of Cambridge 2020, health officials locked happening in India, but it could vaccines. The key to preventing who has studied the SARS- down the country, but it turned explain why so many people are that from happening? Get more CoV-2 virus and its variants, out that people who were getting sick so quickly. In any case, people vaccinated. including the one emerging infected didn’t get that sick; in from the UK, B.1.1.7. which fact, the case fatality rate was NOTICE appears to spread more easily low. That led to a proportion VALDE INTERNATIONAL LTD. among people, and is now the of the population developing (“the Company”) dominant strain of virus causing some level of natural immunity new infections in the U.K. and the to the virus. But that proportion Notice is hereby given to all interested parties that VALDE U.S. “The steep, rapid increase wasn’t enough to provide anything INTERNATIONAL LTD. incorporated under the Belize IBC Act in cases is really quite startling. close to herd immunity, so when (Chapter 270), commenced dissolution on April 21st, 2021, and It’s probably the result of relaxed social restrictions were lifted Mr. Elias Neocleous of 195 Arch. Makarios III Avenue, Neocleous social distancing, a lot of social in May 2020 and people began House, 3030 Limassol, Cyprus is the Liquidator of the Company. Any gatherings including religious congregating again, it created the claims against the Company should be forwarded to the Liquidator gatherings, also combined with perfect conditions for the virus to (Email: [email protected] new variants.” mutate. and telephone No. +357 25 110110) by May 11th, 2021. Sumit Chanda, director of the “Once you let your guard immunity and pathogens program down, these variants basically Orion Corporate & Trust Services Ltd. at Sanford Burnham Prebys have more field to play on,” Registered Agent Medical Discovery Institute in says Chanda. “When you have San Diego, California, describes unmitigated spread, then that’s NOTICE the situation in India as a sort of more fuel you give to the virus CORE BUSINESS SOLUTIONS LTD. perfect storm. “People became to make these mistakes, and the (“the Company”) complacent, and politicians were stronger viruses will pop out.” declaring victory over the virus—a Chanda, Gupta and others are Notice is hereby given to all interested parties that CORE BUSINESS mission accomplished mentality,” also investigating whether another SOLUTIONS LTD. incorporated under the Belize IBC Act (Chapter he says. “They decided to have phenomenon might be at work 270), commenced dissolution on April 22nd, 2021, and Mr. Elias one of the biggest religious driving the severe disease in India. Neocleous of 195 Arch. Makarios III Avenue, Neocleous House, ceremonies and mass gatherings It’s possible that people previously 3030 Limassol, Cyprus is the Liquidator of the Company. Any of humans in the world—I saw infected with SARS-CoV-2, but claims against the Company should be forwarded to the Liquidator pictures and no one was masked, who did not have a severe case of (Email: [email protected] and it was happening in highly COVID-19, might get even sicker and telephone No. +357 25 110110) by May 12th, 2021. dense population centers. Then if they are reinfected—a dynamic you have the emergence of a seen with some other disease- Orion Corporate & Trust Services Ltd. variant and that’s what is really causing viruses, like dengue. Registered Agent driving what is happening over Researchers refer to this Page 11 The GuardIan Sunday, May 2, 2021 Remembering the life of Nestor Vasquez Delivered by Jules Vasquez “Perfidia”. Hazel, you should competing as Belize’s buffest First, an admission of know, does not speak Spanish. middleweight against a far larger inadequacy: my father’s life But, still, she is charmed by Guatemalan opponent in the was too varied, too exceptional, his persistence, that inimitable medal round. Nestor knew he too extraordinary, too much… swagger. He is lifting weights could not outlift this man, he was my words will be unequal to the now -and he lifts her - as he 20 pounds lighter. But he could sweeping curve of his life. would say it - as carefully and outsmart him. After two rounds My father, Nestor Vasquez effortlessly as a basket of eggs, they were tied, but for his third contained multitudes. First, a and, he carries her around like lift, Net asked for a weight he lesson in survival: this - the muscle man, the lover had never lifted before and knew It is 1940. Nestor is 8. His man. In 1957, they marry. It’s a he probably could not lift. It was mother, Ventura is in San Pedro hard go at the start: They come a bluff to get his bigger opponent - she is dying of tuberculosis from families with nothing, to try and outdo this maldito - she is quarantined, it is too really - Net only has that five Beliceño. Net sits cool and calm, infectious for her four children. dollar a week job. They live in watching as the bigger man’s How this pains young Nestor - to Nestor Vasquez a slum on York Street - with an pride compels him to try for an be apart. One day - in the throes scrawny boy throw himself into outdoor latrine and shower. He outsized weight - he fails on his of her illness - he is allowed to any competition, any fight, any never forgot these days, literally first try, then his second, and deliver some food to her at arm’s chore, and scrap for success like all they had was their love and third - the gold medal is Net’s. length - and there she is, at the his life depended on it. And it the certainty that it was bigger He is the Central American door, on the stairs, emaciated did. than anything in its way. middleweight Champ. But for a and weak, this small woman, and H e t a k e s t h i s And it was. They got out good show - Net still approaches he cannot bear it, the longing for recommendation to the Belize of that slum, they made a life, the stage and attempts this weight the maternal embrace, he hugs Marketing Board - where there they made a family - and every he’d never done before. And, as her, they hug. She gives him are no vacancies - except for success my father had - and I’m sure you can guess what the best motherly advice she a job as a typist - because the there were many - this was his happens next...? He lifts and sets can muster: to remain devoted secretary is on leave. Nestor backbone, his lodestar, his true it down...again, like a basket of to the feast saint of his birth, Vasquez cannot type, has never north, no matter the perils of eggs. the virgin mother - a devotion typed, but he takes the job. And paths he traversed, he always Nestor Vasquez contained he will keep for his entire life. he labours every day - staying had home. multitudes: a lesson in It will be the last time they see long hours after work, into the Nestor Vasquez contained patriotism: each other. She will be dead night - to complete basic tasks multitudes: a lesson in strategy: It is 1967 - Net Vasquez within a week. Young Nestor that would have taken a skilled It is 1954, Nestor Vasquez is a nationalist - but not in the is a motherless child. Soon he typist just a few minutes. But is a weightlifter - his speciality? mold of George Price. He helps will be fatherless. Nestor Sr - he does not relent. A few weeks The clean and jerk and the snatch found the right wing Chamber wracked by grief goes to work later - the secretary is back from - the ballet of barbells – even into Reporter - along with Manuel on a ship -leaves his children in leave - and Nestor is sent home. his 90th year, he was still deftly Esquivel, Harry Lawrence, Paul the care of relatives - some kind, But, when you are a hungry 19 performing a modified version of Rodriguez and Curl Thompson. some harsh and exacting with the year old - failure is not an option. this which Dean Barrow dubbed They want change for Belize, but Vasquez children. These were Nestor does not go home. The “the air squat.” But in ‘54 for have their own vision, and form his formative experiences, life’s young man with the easy smile Net Vasquez it was the thin air the Belize Liberal Party - which hardest lessons - that nothing is and the eager nature shows up of Guatemala at the Central then goes on to be a foundational promised, not your mother, not the next day, and the next, and American Championship, (Continued on page 12) your father, not food on your the next, until, perhaps out of plate. sympathy, they hire him as a NOTICE Thus is born Nestor the messenger. In a few months, Alamer Holding Limited orphan, a wild child of the the warehouse manager quits - (“the Company”) Pickstock area, a student of and Nestor, the messenger who Holy Redeemer, a boy scout, spends his spare time helping out Notice is hereby given that the Company has been dissolved and a scrapper, a survivor, running in the warehouse, gets the job to struck off the Belize International Corporate Affairs Registry with the streets. His older neighbour run it. In another year, he parlays effect from April 19th, 2021 George Price dubbed him “bad this knowledge to a desk job, he bush” because little Net Vasquez is now the marketing board’s would do anything - particularly bookkeeper. Orion Corporate & Trust Services Ltd. if it would put some money in Just a few years later, he is Registered Agent his pocket, or some food in his at Pannell, Crewdson & Hardy, belly. an auditor, and 10 years later, Nestor Vasquez contained he is a certified accountant with NOTICE multitudes: second, a lesson in his own practice. Most would ACS International, Ltd. perseverance: have been satisfied to settle RESALE SERVICES, LTD. It is 1950, Net Vasquez is a there, but this was just the start OCCIDENTAL INVESTMENTS, LTD. high schooler looking for work. of his ascent - this is the grit, the (“the Companies”) He is armed with nothing - save hunger and the determination for a well-meant, but not exactly that would become hallmarks of Notice is hereby given to all interested parties that ACS International, unstinting recommendation from his success. Ltd., RESALE SERVICES, LTD., OCCIDENTAL INVESTMENTS, his scout master, Brother Jacoby. Nestor Vasquez contained LTD. incorporated under the Belize IBC Act (Chapter 270), It announces to the world that multitudes: a lesson in love: commenced dissolution on April 23rd, 2021, and Mr. Hector Alfonso this young high school graduate It is 1952, Net Vasquez is Rosado Berlin of Calle 7 A1-320, 22 y 24 Santa Gertrudis Copo, - class of ’49 - is, quote, “of making 5 dollars a week at the Merida, Yucatan, 97305, Mexico is the Liquidator of the Companies. very average intelligence” but he Marketing Board. He falls for Any claims against the Companies should be forwarded to the adds, charitably, that the young Hazel Busch, madly, deeply; he Liquidator (Email: [email protected] and telephone No. man is determined to complete is overthrown by her shapely 999-913-9423 or 999-930-0300) by May 13th, 2021. any manual task set before beauty, overcome by her charm; him. Brother Jacoby knows this he serenades her in spanish, Orion Corporate & Trust Services Ltd. because he has seen this small, songs like “Rayito De Luna” and Registered Agent Page 12 The GuardIan Sunday, May 2, 2021 Remembering the life Remembrance of of Nestor Vasquez Nestor Vasquez (Continued from page 11) Delivered by Dean Barrow part of the UDP. In 1979, the I first got to know Net party is poised for victory in the Vasquez through politics, of general election, to unseat the course. He was, by the time I unbeaten and unbeatable PUP finished law school in 1975, a machine - but, they suffer a well-known accountant who devastating, improbable loss. The numbered some important and UDP is sundered, but Net does wealthy businessmen among his not surrender. While the party clients. He had helped to found the goes into rebuilding mode, Net, fledgling Liberal Party of Manuel Henry Young and others begin to Esquivel, Curl Thompson, Harry strategize. He orchestrates one Lawrence and Paul Rodriguez in of the most exquisite maneuvers the 70s. The Liberals then joined in Belize’s political history: part Jules Vasquez with the traditional Opposition Dean Barrow pincer movement, part palace in here has heard one (or one NIP of Philip Goldson, and Dean saw as the potentially pernicious coup - first, replacing Theodore hundred), of grit, of perseverance Lindo’s breakaway PDM to form neo-liberal sway of Net Vasquez Aranda with Curl Thompson as and unlikely success stolen from the United Democratic Party in over our Party. opposition leader in the House - the jaws of certain failure - if I 1976. This new force appeared to In retrospect, this was highly and then getting Manuel Esquivel told you all of them we would be have the makings of a genuinely ironical since I later became such installed as Party Leader in a here until tonight, and Net would competitive mass party. It seemed an unadulterated Net Vasquez bloodless convention. The Liberal not complain. to have a real chance, at long fan that I perhaps outdid Manuel party is in the driver’s seat - and You see, my dad was many last, of breaking what had been Esquivel in my collaboration with in 1984, the UDP is swept into things, an orphan, a sportsman, the utter political dominance of Net. Recalling it now, I should office, the country’s first change a numbers-man, yes, but also George Price’s People’s United have realized that Manuel, who of government; his lifelong friend a holy man - examples of his Party ever since its formation and was one of the soundest judges Sir Manuel is Prime Minister. Divine mercy devotion decorate right through self-government of character I have ever known, Net, the Kingmaker. the walls of this church - and and into the pre-Independence had every good reason for his Nestor Vasquez contained he was a family man, and - a era. elevation of Net to the position multitudes. A lesson in country-man, so much of what Politics was part of my of UDP guru. imagination: he did in business stems from his own DNA as the grandson of In any case, Manuel In 1978, Net Vasquez and unwavering belief, his certainty, Ebenezer Oliver Bunting Barrow, immediately headed off our Emory King invest in Belize’s that Belizeans can do it best. a Member of colonial era, limited challenge. He explained what first commercial satellite dish, I have today tried to capture autonomy governance bodies; I soon after came to see, an “earth station” it was called, the totality of my father, the aura and as a nephew of PDM leader scales quickly and clatteringly to capture American TV signals of invincibility that emanated Dean Lindo. falling from my eyes: that Net for video rentals. For Emory it is from him, but his death is perhaps It wasn’t too long, therefore, Vasquez was the most dedicated business and gringo ganas; for too heavy with me to reflect the before I made my first foray activist, analytical and tireless Net it’s a pathway to open a TV full intensity of that ultralight into elective politics, contesting campaigner for the UDP that station, Channel 7. beam - and now that it’s gone, it the 1983 Belize City Council we could ever hope to find. It’s an endeavor improbable is as if there was a sudden drop Elections. By that time Manuel He was the best politician that in the extreme; the Belizean in voltage - and the soul-light Esquivel had become the leader never ran for office. As adviser, equivalent of putting a man on the of my family is flickering very of the UDP after a Lindo-led close conceptualizer, shaper and moon. Emory backs out, and Net low. It is the feeling we all have general election loss in 1979. It implementer of policy, he had no moves ahead to pioneer broadcast when someone we have loved was Manuel’s ascendancy that equal. And those are the qualities TV in Belize - breaking the so closely and so deeply for a fixed Net in what became his on which I principally wish now electronic media monopoly then lifetime dies, and we know that undisputed role as consigliere to to expand. exercised by the state controlled in this tug of dreadful loss, the the UDP. Net had been Manuel’s Net possessed unflagging Radio Belize. Fast forward 10 world for us will never be the best friend even before the mind and body energy. His years and the then Prime Minister same again, never so good, never latter’s entry into politics. intellect was of that searching, Esquivel commissions Nestor to so true, never so comprehensible, By the time I first stood as comprehensive kind that minutely, privatize the phone company, never so hopeful, a feeling that a candidate in 1983, then, Net’s microscopically examined every then known as BTA. He charts some essence, some irreplaceable influence over the UDP was issue. But there was nothing the course for BTA to become light has gone and will not return. enormous. He was both principal academic about him. He solved BTL, Belize’s first private But, we know too that this feeling fundraiser and chief strategist. problems, got things done and telecom company- with private shall pass, and just as we know He cast such a long shadow was a perpetual motion, whirling citizens as shareholders - his in this moment, that there is over the UDP that a funny thing dervish of an implementer. He dream for Belizeans to control no end to grief, that’s how we happened where I was concerned. had a prodigious memory and what he called the commanding know there is no end to love. So We won the 1983 Belize City could-even as he approached the heights of the economy. Again, we gather and celebrate Net, he Council elections and then for age of 90-recall every detail of it had not been done before would slap me on the shoulder the first, historic time the general every issue and every incident and there were doubters at the and say, “cheer up, son, it’s gonna elections the following year. But of the epic political and public highest level - but, as my dad work out!” not too long after that a group policy battles he fought. He was fond of saying, “impossible Multitudes…. of the Party’s young Turks never slept more than four hours only takes a little longer.” Net So, I remember this great got together to confront Prime a night but was every morning Vasquez believed that a lack man who lies before us as the Minister Esquivel on what we (Continued on page 13) of imagination was the only island boy, a child of the sea, obstacle to overcome. His grasp rolling perpetually unto the the poet… the blues that cannot be always exceeded his reach. This limitless horizon. If we distill “I tell myself, old man, you named.” really was his gift: that beam, the multitudes of this man - the gone to sea again, only now I end with Shakespeare, “the that optimism. only thing as restless as Net is forever, to be between skies and elements mixed so well in him But, you will say, I am that which he beheld most often: infinity, in the spray of the brine, that Nature might stand up and getting like my father - always the the sea, he would gaze at it for moving, endless— say to all the world, “This was stories of wit and will. Everyone hours - I remember the words of a skyline I cannot seize, a man.” Page 13 The GuardIan Sunday, May 2, 2021 Remembrance of New River facing Nestor Vasquez problems again (Continued from page 12) what happened. That is because fresh and ready for the world. Net, though he was fervently He was a true believer in religious, always knew that he whatever he was doing and was-like all of us-a sinner and relentless in pursuing a cause no saint. He readily admitted his to the end and beyond. He was failings. And that is why I AM fearless, and there was simply here to say that when everything no one that could intimidate is weighed up in the balance, or awe him. He fought the Net surely comes out massively multinationals over take or on the plus side of the ledger. pay in electricity, and over the His one known public service conversion of the then BTA to lapse cannot erase the lifetime of BTL. I recollect his retelling all-consuming commitment that New River affected by eutrophication of the confrontation between resulted in such giant, historic Residents in Orange Walk river becomes a catchment basin him, as Manuel’s adviser, and achievements. Town are complaining that the and does not flush out to the Duke Energy. After Net had let Talking about that also New River has once again begun sea. loose his barrage of arguments, gives me a chance to remark on to emit a foul odor. The Department of the harangues, equations, and just perhaps the most outstandingly The situation a result of Environment issued a release last plain cussedness on all the big human of his qualities. Net was eutrophication, which is the week in which it states that despite men from the Metropole, the fiercely loyal. When he was process by which decomposing Covid-19 restrictions, their work Duke team leader said to him “you your friend he was your friend material settles at the bottom of to improve the conditions at are crazy”. Net, utterly unfazed, forever. That meant fighting in the river emitting noxious gases the river have not abated. They simply changed character and in your corner no matter what. That including methane. continue water monitoring a serene homespun creole way, is why I know that he was hurt In 2019 the situation became exercises, and have been able to mildly observed: that may be by those that stopped calling so grave that the Department secure funding for this to take place true, but how does that help you, after the BTL revelations. For a of the Environment was forced for two years. They add that 40 of bra’n law? man who never measured loyalty into action, where they placed 79 light industries in Orange Walk Net was, without a doubt, in terms of convenience, it was aerators to introduce oxygen have improved their wastewater the most outstanding public disappointing to deal with the into the river, to minimize a and greywater discharge from servant who was never officially fact of fair weather friends. fish kill which accompanied the their facilities. Additionally, the in the Public Service. He served, But, and this is the last eutrophication. department explains that they from early days, on almost point in this enumeration of The New River is affected have ensured that ASR/BSI do every Board and statutory body the ingredients that made up by this phenomenon on a yearly their part by improving their imaginable, including the then this singular individual, Net basis, because of its topography wastewater treatment system and BTA and BEB. And later on he was indomitable. I don’t just during the dry season when the constructing cooling towers. was a towering figure as Chair of mean physically-his weightlifting the privatized and nationalized prowess and his Central American BTL. Of course, that was a gold medal; or even the fact that Liquor License Notices nationalization that he helped he was, into his ninetieth year, bring about. Indeed, he was the still comfortably doing clean and generalissimo, the touchstone jerk air squats. I am talking rather Notice is hereby given that under the Intoxicating Liquor of nationalization. Every time about his iron will, his invincible Licence Ordinance Chapter 150 of the Laws of Belize, we hit a roadblock in that long resolve never to let any situation Revised Edition 2000, that the following People, are saga, Net was there with his get the better of him. Thus it was applying for the renewal of their LIQUOR LICENSE perpetual mantras: ‘no retreat, no that he simply called up some for the year 2021 to operate their business in the Cayo surrender’; and ‘the impossible of those inexhaustible reserves Distirict. just takes a little longer’. of resilience and shook off the Net’s crusades, though, post-BTL desertion of former were never quixotic. He used comrades. Magali Arrevalo- Restaurant License for Magaly’s that eclectic mind of his to I close by saying something Restaurant on Bullet Tree Road, San Ignacio Town construct rock solid cases. Thus, of Net’s family. Bearing in mind (2021). the vision he pushed was always my earlier stipulation that Net unassailable. While excitedly was no saint, there can be no Elizabeth Richards- Restaurant License for jalapenos pitching something to you- doubt that he deeply loved his and Net was always excitedly wife Hazel, ill and bedridden Restaurant on Benque Viejo Road, San Ignacio Town pitching something-Net would these many years but actually (2021). invariably leap to his feet and now surviving Net. Then there with his forefinger jab the air. is the distinguished progeny Maria Boiton- Beer License for BEL-CHI on La Loma Ultimately, though, as much as they produced. Everyone of Luz Boulevard, Santa Elena Town, Cayo (2021). the passion it was his mass of their children, including Nestor facts, stats and irrefutable QEDs Jr who predeceased Net, was that steamrolled you. and is-each in his/her own way- Rosa E. Cocom- Beer License for Rosy’s Shop in Corozalito I want to say something brilliant. And in them, some of Village, Chaa Creek Area, Cayo District (2021). now about the misfortune that Net’s legacy lives on. overtook him towards the end. It And what a legacy it is. Edwin Alvarado- Restaurant License for Alvarados was a physical fall that took his The boy from San Pedro grew to Restaurant on Avacado Street, Santa Elena Town, Cayo life. But before that there was become someone who bestrode (2021). the moral stumble that finished so very much of Belizean public his BTL chairmanship. When life. that occurred there was, despite This was a colossus of Nandina F. Rodriguez- Restaurant License for Chirps the Biblical caution, many that a man. And, to be sure, not Chicken, Side and Shake on Bullet Tree Road, San Ignacio lined up to throw the first stone. anytime soon will there come Town, Cayo (2021). I am not here today to gloss over such another. Page 14 The GuardIan Sunday, May 2, 2021 This is a good thing as it will promote is remarkable and can help you create a greater connection between you and the most meaningful love connection your love. So, lean into the discomfort possible. It’s time to walk through the Your Horoscope and start talking. The catharsis will be darkness, Sagittarius. You know light amazing! and love are waiting on the other side.

Aries Mar 21 – Apr 19 personality, it’s possible that it will Libra Sep 23 – Oct 22 Capricorn Dec 22 – Jan 19 How deep is your love? You’re rattle your partner or someone you’re Letting go of the feelings you If there is a toxic friendship that ready to find out on Monday thanks interested in. have connected to being unworthy of has been getting in the way of your to a Full Moon that lands in your 8th love because of negative self-worth is personal life, it might be time to cut this House of Intimacy and Transformation. Cancer Jun 21 – Jul 22 absolutely essential now. On Monday, a person out of your world this week. He Extraordinary healing is possible for A Full Moon will shine in your true Scorpio Full Moon lands in the area of or she might have proven untrustworthy you as it relates to an emotional and love sector on Monday, signaling major your chart connected to personal worth. and could have sabotaged your intimate sexual connection with someone. This activity in the romance department. It Shedding the toxic energy that might be life in some way. Once you get this can be a deep trauma healing from a could be a remarkable and fulfilling time preventing you from seeing your own person out of your space, you’ll be able past relationship, or it can be a healing for you in matters of the heart when you value is the only way another person to mend any damage he or she caused that has to do with your current love and the person you’re dating achieve a ever will. Fortunately, you’ll have razor between you and your partner. connection. Your willingness to show level of intimacy you never imagined sharp perception about this, and you’ll your vulnerable side now will help to possible. If you are playing for keeps, be ready to do the work. Aquarius Jan 20 – Feb 18 strengthen any bond you have with then this is the lunar event that will bring Your partner is sure to have another person. out the depths of your feelings for each Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 21 immense feelings of appreciation and other, as well as your undeniable mutual A Full Moon illuminates your sign love for you this week. He or she will Taurus Apr 20 – May 20 attachment. on Monday, making you feel every dark be amazed at how you find a way to You could experience a vital and uncomfortable emotion you have handle an unexpected family ordeal with turning point in love and relationships Leo Jul 23 – Aug 22 connected to mistrust, expectation of grace and pragmatism. Because you can thanks to a Full Moon landing in your If there is someone special in your betrayal, secrets, and guardedness. All easily think out of the box, you’ll find partnership sector on Monday. This life, you’ll feel it’s really important for these feelings are barriers to intimacy, solutions where everyone else is only lunar event can bring a deep and loyal your love to become more integrated with and while you recognize this as true, seeing problems. Your partner will also commitment to you if you’ve been your family this week. The connections you also can’t help but see these themes let you know how wonderful you are dating someone and you’re both ready you have with relatives are sometimes constantly emerge in your romantic for knowing when and where to extend to take that next step. However, if you complicated but certainly deep, and endeavors. Maybe it’s time to liberate compassion and unconditional love. and your partner have been experiencing it’s important for you to share these yourself from the pain you expect in toxicity in your relationship, then this relationships with your sweetheart. Your matters of the heart, Scorpio? Pisces Feb 19 – Mar 20 could expose the darkness and force partner’s willingness to develop a bond Venus continues to move through both of you to address it–or end things. with your clan will show you just how Sagittarius Nov 22 – Dec 21 your communication sector, giving much you mean to him or her. This could be a week filled with you the ability to talk to your lover Gemini May 21 – Jun 20 rich emotional breakthroughs. On about any and everything in a much There is an undeniable urge to Virgo Aug 23 – Sep 22 Monday, a deeply profound Full Moon gentler way. That ability will be even break free from any anxiety you have If you need to have a deep in Scorpio lands in your hidden 12th more pronounced this week thanks that prevents you from showing the conversation with your partner about house. Prepare to have your blind spots to the gorgeous link Venus will make side of you that is unconventional and anything that requires you to be vulnerable in love exposed so they may be healed to Neptune, now in your sign, on quirky. This impulse will be impossible and feel exposed, then Monday is your once and for all. Therapy might provide Sunday. Conversations about spirituality, to ignore on Friday, and you might do time to open up. A Full Moon in Scorpio a significant shift in perspective; you’ll soulmate connections, or an artistic something that seems out of character will light up your communication sector, not only see what has been holding endeavor that has sparked your interest but is aligned to your most authentic giving you an emotional urgency to you back from intimacy, but you’ll are all possible. You and your love self. Unfortunately, since you’ve been convey feelings and information that also be able to release it. The healing might even work on a creative project so in the closet about this part of your you would otherwise keep to yourself. that is possible from this lunar event together. Page 15 The GuardIan Sunday, May 2, 2021

YOUTH TALKS of us, their salary is not expected to cover their personal expenses. It was the best of times, No. They get additional financial allowances to cover those. Then there are the successful it was the worst of times... doctors, attorneys and business By Thamar Jones Ah this quote. I first heard it as of lettuce which are the only ones men and women who earn enough “…it was the age of wisdom, a student in Standard 4. And even I buy to avoid spoilage: $6.08. to cover their needs, their wants, it was the age of foolishness, it at the tender age 10, I understood WTF?! and then some. They don’t live was the epoch of belief, it was all too well its meaning but today How are these meager in fear of their revenue streams the epoch of incredulity, it was as a 20 something year old, I’m paychecks suppose to stretch drying up. the season of light, it was the living the tale. from payday to payday. Will And this is not an attack season of darkness, it was the This famous excerpt, taken there be days I go hungry? What on the haves or the “have-nots”. spring of hope, it was the winter from the opening paragraph of if things continue to worsen? I believe that save for thieves of despair.” Charles Dickens, A Charles Dickens’ novel, A Tale For the first time in a long and con artists, for the most tale of two Cities. of Two Cities, suggests an age time I feel poor…. not just poor part, people are compensated in of radical opposites taking place in possessions but poor in spirit. proportion to the value of what across the English Channel, in The feeling of lack and a sense of they contribute to their society. France and the United Kingdom foreboding prevails. This must be This is merely to remind Corozal respectively. It tells a story what the great depression felt like. you… and me, that whatever of contrasts and comparisons A feeling of fear, uncertainty and you are experiencing is not the native between London and Paris during doom resulting from the effects of only reality to be experienced the French revolution. an economic meltdown. in a particular time and place. missing And while in this context it But like The Tale of two The life you prefer to live exists. compares life in one country with cities, is there an equal and And others right here and now another, this is an apt phrase to opposite reality being experienced are living it. be used in the context of Belize by some? So you get to decide will today; a place and time where, There are at least 30 men this be the best or the worst of on the one hand, the rich are and women whom we know, times for you? Will you wise enjoying luxurious lives; while that are being paid nearly 10 up…or be foolish? Believe or on the other hand, the poor are thousand dollars monthly, from live faithlessly? Live in love struggling under the yoke of the public purse, in salaries and and light? Or desperation and economic decline. allowances. They have no bills sorrow? The statistics, figures and because somehow unlike the rest Which city will you live in? projected recession which were once only markings on paper are See News now getting real on the ground and 207-5346 Michelle Martinez people are feeling the effects. in the Guardian Newspaper The family of Michelle A trip to my local supermarket Martinez, a resident of Corozal and this weekend woke me up to that Making? mother of three, has made pleas fact. A pack of sliced whole wheat with the public in locating their bread for $4.90. The tiniest head Call the Guardian loved one. Michelle Martinez, who also goes by the name of Kim, is of brown complexion, stands at around 5’ 5”, and has dark brown eyes. She was last seen on Saturday, April 17 when she was at home alone as her husband left for work. Since then, they have been searching for her and have had reported sightings of their loved one in different locations including Calcutta as well as Corozal Town. According to the family, Martinez suffers from a mental health condition which is normally controlled when she takes her medication on time. This is the first instance that she has gone missing and they are becoming increasingly worried as the days pass. As a result, the family has come up with a $2,000 reward for anyone with credible information which will lead to Martinez being found. Page 16 The GuardIan Sunday, May 2, 2021 Pro-Organic Belize Holds Security Guard killed for his gun Annual General Meeting The Olivera family of Pro-Organic Belize (POB), western Belize is trying to cope founded in 2016, recently held with their hurt after Lionel its annual general meeting via Olivera Sr. became the victim Zoom. Elected to the board of gun violence on Friday, April of directors to serve for two 23. Olivera, a 57-year-old retired years were Karin Wesdyk, Josie soldier of the Belize Defense Flowers, and Keon Clare. They Force (BDF), was on duty as a join Mary Loan, Dottie Feucht, security officer at Cayo One Stop Robin Clarke, Dr. Sophia Clarke, Hardware Store in Santa Elena and John Briggs who serve until Town, Cayo. It was a typical 2022. night of work for Olivera Sr. but Discussed at the meeting it all changed at around 10:30 James Rudon were highlights of the previous p.m. when two men descended of a firearm. He has since been year, including monthly speakers on the scene. One of those men escorted to Belmopan in order to which started as a Tuesday pulled out a firearm and fired a be investigated for murder. afternoon event and ended with Mary Loan, a member of Pro-Organic single shot to Olivera at close On the night of the murder, a change to Saturdays at 3:00 to Belize coordinating events for the range before fleeing the scene. quick response by Police to accommodate a wider audience. virtual Annual General Meeting Police understand that the culprits transport Olivera Sr. to the San Speakers in 2020 included Dr. free produce available from its made off with Olivera’s company Ignacio Community Hospita to Rosita Arvigo who spoke on 2 certified farmers to some 200 issued weapon, a Smith and the incident were futile. He died Medicinal Herbs, Dr. Ed Boles people in its consumers’ group. Wesson 9mm firearm. while undergoing treatment and on Watersheds, Helen Choco on (These farmers were certified The entire ordeal was now his family is left questioning CATIE Projects in Belize, Fay after samples of their products caught on surveillance footage, the motive behind the murder. Garnet on Agroforestry Systems were tested for pesticide residue and while charges are yet to So far, police believe that the and Aurelio Sho on Our Forests by a laboratory in Guatemala.) be read against anyone, police culprits simply wanted Olivera’s are our Future. Other speakers POB consumers order and pay believe that they have one of the firearm. for 2020 included Kim Ringland the farmers directly. Pickup responsible persons in detention. While officers made note of who spoke on Landscaping with places are in San Ignacio and He is 21-year-old James Rudon, the attire the culprits were wearing, Native Herbs, Gary Ramirez Belmopan, but POB discussed a laborer and resident of La they believe that the clothes were on Improving Agriculture, and developing an order pickup Democracia. Rudon was found quickly discarded after they were Henry Peller on Seed Saving. location in Ladyville. The POB in southern Belize where he was found in the Bradley’s Bank area POB is currently planning Marketing Committee reported on board a bus headed for Santa of the town. Finding the stolen its speaker meeting for May that POB’s Facebook page Rosa. Police say that they found firearm weighs heavily in favor 8, 2021 which is being jointly contains information for joining Olivera’s company issued firearm of the police’s investigation into sponsored with Regeneration POB and its consumer group. inside a backpack on a rack in the this murder but as with any case, Belize. World-renowned The Farm Relations and bus above Rudon’s head. As a they must continue to carry out author, founder of Regeneration Certification Committee reported result, Rudon has been detained their investigation to find more International and past president that it has a list of farmers waiting pending a charge of possession evidence into the incident. of IFOAM International, Andre to be certified as growers of Leu, will be speaking from his pesticide-free produce. As soon organic farm in Australia. as the GOB Covid restrictions It was reported that the POB are lifted the committee will sends a weekly list of pesticide- resume its farm inspections. 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SAGICOR LIFE INC.

Gilbert Andrew Harrison Pilgrim of 14 Albert Street West, Belize City, Belize, having made sworn deposition that Policy No F01106051 issued by Sagicor Life Inc. has been declared lost, and having made application to the Directors to grant a duplicate of the same, notice is hereby given that unless objection is raised within one month of the date hereof, the duplicate policy asked for will be issued.

Dated April 22nd, 2021

By Order

Althea Hazzard Corporate Secretary Page 17 The GuardIan Sunday, May 2, 2021 Minor Santa Barbara family held at charged for gunpoint and robbed of items A Belize City woman, who not, she would offer him a bread murder of makes her living baking and or something else she baked, so selling bread and bun, was held to see him behind a gun inside Kevonn Wade up at gun point inside her home her yard was both traumatizing on Santa Barbara Street. The and shocking. frightening ordeal took place on He walked behind Leslie as Leslie’s husband wounded head Sunday night as she made her she made her way back into her firearm and point it to Leslie’s way outside of her home. That home where she attempted to husband’s head. He began to plea is when Lucilla Leslie was met warn her husband from whom for his life, and offered his phone by a gunman who forced her the gunman immediately made in place of cash. The gunman then back inside her home. To make demands for money. Both Leslie made his way to the couple’s 15- matters worse, Leslie says that and her husband insisted that year-old son’s bedroom and took the culprit was someone she they did not have any money, his cellphone and other valuables. recognized, and someone she and that is when the assailant He made off with as much as has used her little resources to assaulted Leslie’s husband and $1,400 in items before making help countless times in the past. hit him on the head with the back his escape. Police have not yet According to Leslie, he would of the firearm, while continuing arrested anyone nor recovered Kevonn Wade oftentimes meet her where she to make demands for cash. The any of their items. Leslie says On the night of Thursday, sells near Public’s on Central couple again explained that they that she is hesitant to resume her April 22, a resident of Punta American Boulevard, and ask for did not have any money, which sales in fear of being robbed by Gorda Town, Toledo was shot and small change. More often than prompted the culprit to crank the someone else. killed as he sat on his verandah. Less than a week later, police believe that they have found the responsible party, a 16-year-old minor. That minor has since been arrested and charged for the crime of murder in the presence of a social worker. His victim, 37-year-old Kevonn Wade, was sitting on the verandah of his home located near Uno Gas Station on Main Street at around 7:30 p.m. when shots rang out, with residents recounting hearing the echoes of as many as six gunshots. In the aftermath, Wade, originally from the Western Paradise community located in the Belize District, lay motionless on the ground. Police were quick in their response, but despite their rapid reaction, the gunman had already fled the area and Wade was pronounced dead on arrival at the Punta Gorda Polyclinic. Surveillance video from the scene shows the shooter, fleeing on foot. Police are following several leads to ascertain what might have led to Wade’s murder, since from all accounts, he was a quiet and upstanding citizen. ACP Joseph Myvett, Head of the National Crimes Investigation Branch, says that the police have several theories, including that the minor may have had a prior confrontation with Wade, and that Wade might have been murdered over gang and/or drug related activities. Page 18 The GuardIan Sunday, May 2, 2021 Second murder for Shooting victims the weekend, second not cooperating with within days for PG police investigation Dwayne Myers became A group of men from Belize take a look under the vehicle’s the second victim of murder City came under attack of gunfire bonnet and that is when a group over the weekend when he while at a pedestrian crossing of persons inside a blue car was shot and killed inside in Blackman Eddy, Cayo but approached them and fired his car in Punta Gorda Town, police say that the men are less a number of shots in their Toledo on Saturday, April 24. than cooperative in helping the direction. Both Popper and He became the municipality’s officers to understand what took Cardinez received gunshot second murder victim in the place. Two men were injured in injuries for which they were span of two days, following the process and were taken to taken to the Western Regional the murder of Kevonn Wade, the hospital for treatment, but Hospital. creating much concern among discharged themselves not too While there, the police the residents of that normally long after. Police responded to attempted to ask questions calm Southern town. the incident at around 6:15 p.m. to assist in investigating the 49-year-old Myers had just on Saturday, April 24. Tristan incident, but the men were parked near a bus stop when he Dwayne Myers Popper, Delroy Cardinez, and not cooperative. Nonetheless, was killed, just minutes before For this particular instance, a third person were stranded police are proceeding with 8:00 p.m. Two persons on a police are following several on the road after the vehicle the matter and are looking motorcycle approached Myers leads but have yet to bring forth in which they were traveling for several named suspects in and opened fire, resulting in any charges. broke down. They stopped to relation to the investigation. multiple injuries to the body which would cost him his life. Police were called to the scene and encountered his bullet- riddled body inside the vehicle. He was transported to the Punta Gorda Community Hospital but died while undergoing treatment for his injuries. Police have since canvassed the scene and found two types of ammunition used in this murder. This murder has not only caused the Town’s locals to become frantic, but law enforcement as well. As a result, this spate of recent crimes has caused Commissioner of Police Chester Williams to head to the southernmost district to look into these criminal activities and their cause, believed to be gang warfare.

Shooting in Belama Police have detained two persons, and are expecting to bring charges against them in relation to a shooting incident which took place in Belama, Belize City. Kyle Chaplin was the victim of this incident but thankfully only received a graze injury from a bullet. According to Chaplin, he was cleaning out a lot in the community on Saturday, April 24 when he was approached by two male persons. They fired several shots in his direction but he managed to escape being gravely injured. Police say that Chaplin was shot as a result of a rivalry between himself and the gunmen. Page 19 The GuardIan Sunday, May 2, 2021 Stolen items Sweep of gang from PG motel recovered members in Roaring Creek

Kimberly Coye Kobe Dyer Two persons were detained about 4:45 p.m., police officers Russel Hyde Sr. Michael Middleton pending investigations in relation conducting a vehicular checkpoint to a robbery which took place at on the Southern Highway between Golden Motel Inn in Punta Gorda miles 47 and 48 at the Trio junction Town, Toledo on Monday, April 26. stopped a black two-door Ford They have since been arrested and Ranger pickup which approached charged for the crime of aggravated the checkpoint. Upon inspection burglary. Kimberly Monique Coye, of the vehicle, they observed two a 22-year-old resident of Placencia persons inside the vehicle who Village, Stann Creek was inside a identified themselves as Dyer and vehicle along with Kobe Stephan Coye. A search of the vehicle led to Dyer, a 23-year-old resident of the discovery of the .45mm caliber Hattieville Village, Belize, when pistol STI Spartan-IV COLT and police, who were operating a a magazine containing three live vehicular checkpoint, found them rounds of ammunition. Also inside Anthwan Galvez Aaron Hyde with a prohibited .45mm firearm the vehicle were assorted alcoholic and items believed to have been beverages, energy drinks, and a stolen during the robbery. The laptop. A subsequent highway incident took place at around 3:30 patrol was conducted by police in p.m. while Hsu Chui Pi-Chen, the an area between miles 15 and 16 73-year-old business owner, was on the Southern Highway where at the hotel. Pi- Chen reported they observed the stolen Toyota that three persons, a woman and Hilux. A chase ensued but the two men, entered the hotel and driver of the Hilux alighted the made demands for cash while vehicle and made good his escape pointing the firearm at Pi-Chen. in the bushes. Police have since The culprits proceeded to ransack recovered the vehicle and arrested the establishment, and made off Coye and Dyer for the crime. with an undisclosed about of Police have since recovered Luis Marin Malcolm Hyde money, jewelry, and assorted the vehicle and arrested Coye and A p o l i c e o p e r a t i o n Russel Hyde Jr., a 28-year-old beverages. They were also able to Dyer for the crime of aggravated conducted in the village of resident of Camalote Village, steal and escape in a white 4-door burglary. Likewise, they have both Roaring Creek in Cayo on was formally arrested and Toyota Hilux which was parked been charged for possession of a Wednesday, April 28 led to a charged for being the leader of inside the garage. prohibited firearm and possession sweep and the detention of six the Gullyside/RCG/Thrillers Just over an hour later, at of prohibited ammunition. persons connected to a gang. and Outlaw Gang. Joining him is Micheal Middleton, a 24- year-old construction worker of Roaring Creek, for being a Illegal logging in River Valley Area member of that gang. Residents of the Belize River F o u r o t h e r p e r s o n s , Valley are complaining that over namely Joseph Hyde, 20, the past few weeks, a number Anthwan Galvez, 18, Aaron of illegal logging operations Hyde, 20, and Luis Marin, have been taking place in the 20, were likewise formally area without proper supervision arrested and charged for being from the forestry department. members of the Genaside A caller on Wave Radio’s ‘Fus Gang. All of these persons are Ting Dah Mawning’ pointed from Roaring Creek except for out to the hosts that a number of Marin who hails from Cotton trucks have been hauling lumber Tree Village. out of the area. The caller stated Each of these persons was that the operations are being Truck hauling lumber out of the area arraigned in the Belmopan conducted by Mennonites who She noted that the logs being numerous calls to police stations Magistrate’s Court where they are often moving into private taken out are not marked by the in the area have been futile to pleaded not guilty. They were lands and extracting lumber Forestry Department as being prevent the illegal extraction remanded to Belize Central which is often undersized. approved by them and added that from continuing. Prison until June 30, 2021. Page 20 The GuardIan Sunday, May 2, 2021 I have some conditions Little Josh was brought to Dr. Gill cause he hadn’t eaten anything for days. Dr. Gill offered him all the goodies he could think of. No luck. He tried a little scolding. It didn’t work. A little pleading, to no avail.

Finally he sat down, faced the boy, looked him in the eye. He said, “Look young man, if you can be stubborn, so can I. You’re not going anywhere until you eat something. You can have whatever you want, but only after you have eaten will you leave.”

Josh just sat and glared for some time, then said, “OK. I’ll eat but I have some conditions. First, I’ll have exactly what I want and exactly how I want it and second you’ll share with me.”

I wish I were a book Dr. Gill was OK with this. He asked the child what he’d like. “Worms!” “For heaven’s sake, Chris, why can’t you talk to me once in a while?” said Josh. Julie whined. Dr. Gill was horrified but didn’t want to back out and seem like a loser. “What?” Chris replied. So, he ordered a plate of worms to be brought in. “Not that many, just one,” yelled Josh as he saw the plate. “Look around!” Julie yelled, as she pointed around the room. “Look at all these books! You always have your head buried in a book! You So, everything other than one worm was removed. Josh then demanded don’t even seem to know I’m alive!” that the single worm be cut into two pieces and then Dr. Gill eat half. Dr. Gill went through the worst ordeal of his life, and after finishing, “I’m sorry, honey,” Chris said. barely managing to keep his cool, said, “OK, now eat!”

“Sometimes I wish I were a book. Maybe then you’d at least look at Josh refused as he sobbed, “No way! You ate my half!” me!” Julie exclaimed. ------“Hmmmm,” Chris mumbled, “that’s not such a bad idea. Then I could take you to the library every few days and change you for something Taste the soup more interesting.” An old man is sitting at his table in the hotel dining room with a bowl ------of soup in front of him. He calls the waiter over and asks him to taste the soup.

Wife for a Season Ticket “Is the soup too cold?” asks the waiter. Sarah was reading a newspaper, while her husband was engrossed in a magazine. Suddenly, she burst out laughing. “Taste the soup,” says the old man.

“Listen to this,” she said. “There’s a classified ad here where a guy is “Is it too salty?” asks the waiter. offering to swap his wife for a season ticket to the stadium.” “Taste the soup!” says the old man. “Hmmm,” her husband said, not looking up from his magazine. “Is there a fly in it?” asks the waiter. Teasing him, Sarah said, “Would you swap me for a season ticket?” “JUST TASTE THE SOUP WILL YA!” the old man insists. “Absolutely not,” he said. The waiter looks down: “OK then...Where is the spoon?” “How sweet,” Sarah said. “Tell me why not.” The old man exclaims, “Aha!” “Season’s almost half over,” he said. ------Lucky number Life support A 55-year-old man who was born on May 5, has been married 5 years, After the birth of their first child Tom and Sarah decided it was time has 5 children, makes $55,555.55 a year, trusts the number 5. to write a will and get their affairs in order. They went to a lawyer and outlined for him their ideas about how their estate should be handled. One day a friend informs the man that a horse named Lucky 5 will be running in the fifth race at the local track that evening. Excitedly, the The lawyer then asked them questions about what medical means should man withdraws 5,555.00 cash from his bank account, goes to the races be employed should they become severely injured. and bets on Lucky 5.

Tom spoke up, “I don’t want my life regulated by some machine. I just Sure enough, the horse comes in fifth. can’t stand the idea of receiving my nourishment from a bottle.” ------Sarah took Tom’s words to heart. When they got home, she cut the TV cord and dumped out all of Tom’s beer. Chewing electrical chords ------I caught my son chewing on electrical cords...

Math on the floor So I had to ground him... My math teacher asked me why I was doing my math homework on the floor. He’s doing better currently...

I said: “You told us to do them without using tables.” And conducting himself properly. Page 21 The GuardIan Sunday, May 2, 2021