Sunday, November 22, 2020 Vol. 23 No. 47

Vol. 23 No. 47 Sunday, November 22, 2020 Page 2 The GuardIan Sunday, November 22, 2020 Same old… Same old Belizeans ask for resignation of newly appointed CEO’s On Tuesday, November greatest attention. For younger Another CEO appointment much more to these two CEO’s, 17, there were announcements readers who do not know of that has raised eyebrows is that we must also remember Marco made of new CEO’s in various the history of these two, we of Amalia Mai. She was at the Tulio Mendez who was involved ministries. Those that caught can simply ask them to Google Ministry of Foreign affairs and in some serious allegations of our attention were the naming of their names and their infamy signed on behalf of the government sexual misconduct against some Narda Garcia as the CEO in the will pop right up. Garcia had to of Belize for 40 million dollars young girls who were under Ministry of Finance under Johnny resign from the Social Security granted to the people of Belize his care. Then we have Servulo Briceño, Amalia Mai as the CEO Board after scandal after scandal by the Venezuelan Government. Baeza, who once was the Minister in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs broke where the poor people’s The sum total of the grant was of Health and who had a lot to be under Eamon Courtenay, Servulo contributions to the system was not known until after the general desired in the running of that Baeza as CEO in the Ministry being used to finance private elections of 2008 when the ministry. And while he may have of Agriculture and Marco Tulio sector initiatives that bore no Venezuelans sought an accounting had many sins in that ministry, Mendez as the CEO in the fruits but instead indebted the for the use of the money. It was his worst one came when he Ministry of Health. SSB for millions upon millions then that it was learnt that the then was involved in allegations As we go to press, a petition of dollars. It all came to a head PUP government had declared being made by a businessman, has already begun to circulate on when a commission of inquiry to the people that they received who claimed that he along with various social media platforms had to take place, cataloguing 20 million dollars when in fact Ainsley Leslie had swindled him asking that at least one of these the various wrongdoings at the it was twice that amount. The out of a piece of island. At the appointments be reconsidered. board. The fleecing of the SSB other half was used to pay the time, the businessman was led The appointment of Narda Garcia was one of the primary reasons now infamous private Universal to believe that he was purchasing and that of Amalia Mai have been the PUP was booted out of office Health Service Debt. a particular piece of island in the ones that have attracted the in 2008. And while we can dedicate the south. He developed the island and when he was done he was confronted with the harsh reality that he had developed the No portfolio for losers wrong piece of property. He lost With a 26 to five electoral above-mentioned, the other he has a serious gambling and everything as a result. victory, the Johnny Briceño led two may have been omitted drinking problem. Prior to the These are but a few of the PUP administration was faced because of their unsavory nature. elections, he did not even have a myriad wrongdoings of the with trying to appease a great We remember that Leal was job! We are told that as a teacher, previous administration, to now deal of individuals, all expecting once accused of being a child he was not even wanted at the bring these very same players ministerial appointments. As he molester; we will not delve school where he used to teach. back into the highest decision- negotiated to find positions for further into this character. The There were allegations that he making positions in government all the winners, there were four other that definitely disqualified would sell grades to students, leaves a lot to be desired from of them who simply did not fit himself was David Vega. Even who would pay for it. the now, only week-old PUP into Cabinet or were not deemed before the elections, Facebook W i t h t h i s k i n d o f administration. Cabinet material. The losers was littered with comments background, it is no wonder among the winners are David stating that he was a nobody. He why, even after winning, Vega ‘Dido’ Vega, Jorge Espat, Alex apparently has nowhere to call would not be considered to be The Guardian Balona, and Marconi Leal. home, as there are indications given a portfolio. After all, even While we do not know that he does not own a house. Johnny has some scruples and Protecting Freedom Rights Democracy what the selection process was He does not own a vehicle. We would not want to further tarnish to have omitted two of the are also reliably informed that his Cabinet. editor: Alfonso Noble ADVERTISING Louis Thompson Compositor: Kristen Jimenez Reporter: Jem Smith CONTRIBUTORS: Byron Donaire Rene Flowers Vanessa Guerrero 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, November 22, 2020 Legal Counsel at Delroy Chaplin Ministry of Natural murdered in Ladyville Often times when a murder There were multiple gunshot Resources detained is connected to some illegal gang injuries to his body and he was activity, it is a dispute between pronounced dead on arrival at rival gangs which leads to the the hospital. Police investigations murder. In the case of Delroy seem to have pointed to an internal Chaplin, however, police are dispute in a group with which saying that it was an internal he had association. COMPOL issue within a group which led Chester Williams says that while to the shooting murder. 35-year- they will refrain from divulging old Chaplin was shot and killed too much into why the police on Monday, November 16, 2020, have come to that conclusion, it just hours after the murder of has to do with the proceeds of a Jareth Tablada in Belize City. crime which was committed. Chaplin, a resident of Ladyville, Chaplin seemingly did not reportedly left his home just after have the best record and even his 8:00 p.m. to purchase cannabis common-law wife, Pamela Staine, from someone not too far away attested to his life of crime. She on Perez Road in Ladyville says that his murder was somehow Llewellyn Usher being detained village. It was on his return home foreshadowed when just days On the morning immediately footage of the incident quickly that he was ambushed and shot. before, on Sunday, a minor who following General Elections circulated, showing the brute Ladyville Police responded was in his company, was shot in Belize, there was some force being used by the officers to the shooting incident at around and injured. The police, however, commotion at the Ministry of to subdue Usher. Credible reports 8:10 p.m. and met Chaplin’s say that the two incidents are not Natural Resources office in indicate that leader of the new lifeless body on the pavement. connected. Belmopan. Llewellyn Usher, government administration Legal Counsel for the Ministry Hon. John Briceño had given and an Attorney-at-Law, was directives for the closure of accosted by police as he made the Lands Department’s offices Murder on Holy Emmanuel his way to work at around 11:00 countrywide. Police in the Belize District the shooting where they met that morning. He was denied Reports suggest that Usher had their hands full, having to Tablada’s bullet-riddled body. access to the building by police was detained by the police pending respond to two murders within He was transported to the Karl and when he insisted on getting charges and COMPOL Williams hours of each other on Monday, Heusner Memorial Hospital inside, he was forcibly subdued says that an investigation into the November 16, 2020. The first but was pronounced dead on by four police officers. Video matter is ongoing. murder was that of 37-year-old arrival. Jareth Tablada, a resident and The police are currently known deliveryman of Lake investigating this murder Independence and father of and while they have not yet three. He had left his home in arrested anyone, they believe the Gungunlung area to purchase to have discovered the motive. Boledo at a shop on Holy Commissioner of Police Chester Emmanuel Street but never made Williams explained that Tablada’s it back home. At around 6:15 murder is potentially connected that evening, he was listening to a land dispute, which he had to music on his phone when a with an individual in the area. gunman rode up to him and let As such, police are following out a flurry of bullets. Shortly that and all other leads and are thereafter, police responded to seeking that person. Page 4 The GuardIan Sunday, November 22, 2020 Ghosts of the PU’s past being resurrected During the run up to the documents covering mortgages Government Minister Servulo to sell the resort, that he had put Belize City Council Elections for Data Pro, Aquarius, Intelco, Baeza, who is being appointed almost a million dollars into — at of 2009 the PUP’s Mayoral and Western Caribbean Properties CEO in the Ministry of Agriculture, a distress price. That case ended candidate, the late Dr. Cecil and the inclusion of these in the Food Security and Enterprise. in an out of caurt settlement, ‘Chubby’ Reneau proudly securitization packages without Servulo or SCURVYLOW as where Baeza reportedly agreed declared, and the rest of the PUP ensuring or performing the proper many Public Officers prefer to to refund Popper the full purchase echoed the refrain — “There is checks. These in fact were not refer to him is no Altar boy. He price for the land which was no old PUP, and no new PUP; done in order to protect the Social is a former two-term Orange $150,000. The court order also there is only ONE PUP.” That Security fund.” Walk North Representative, required Baeza to pay $16,500 in refrain is obviously evident in the Then there is Amalia Mai, who is known for bouncing from Popper’s lawyers fees and another selection of the Chief Executive who is once again being appointed ministry to ministry to having no $4,100 for a surveyor. Officers being named to head the as CEO of the Ministry of Foreign ministry to finally being defeated Those are only four of various government ministries. Affairs. We cannot forget that the at the polls. Perhaps the thing he the appointments made by the Just a cursory look at the names last time she held that position she is most infamously know for is incoming PUP administration. that have surfaced so far is along with Said Musa diverted that out of court settlement he had The people making the most frightening. It appears that Prime millions meant to assist with to make with the Belizean resort complaints about the appointment Minister Briceño is hell-bent on housing for the poor to the Lord developer Carlos Popper. Popper are many of the persons who spitting in the face of Belizeans by Ashcroft group of companies. took out a civil suit against him bought into the PUP’s talk about appointing the same people that Following the PUP loss in 2008, when he was Minister of State. having changed and are the people Belizeans rejected in 2008 and Amalia Mai ended up at Channel At the time Popper claimed that who went out and campaigned for which kept the PUP in opposition 5, as its CEO until this new Baeza and his driver, Guillermo the PUP. They are the ones asking for almost 13 years. Those PUP appointment she is being given. Briceño who is a relative of why the PUP has reverted to doing rejects who are being dusted Channel 5 is one of the businesses Johnny Briceño, set him up on what Belizeans rejected in three off, rebranded and appointed as that make up the Ashcroft group a land deal. He claimed that in consecutive elections. The main CEOs include the former CEO of companies. For those who may 2003 Baeza sold him acres of question they are asking is “why and General Manager of the not remember or know about the what he thought was a beach front are the young qualified PUPs Social Security Board, Narda diversion of the millions meant to property on Ropewalk Caye in the not the ones being appointed?” Garcia. Former Ambassador assist with housing for the poor Turneffe Island Range. After two Another question being asked is, Amalia Mai is to be appointed as to the Lord Ashcroft group of years building a resort, Popper “what happened to EVERYBODY CEO for the Ministry of Foreign companies, here is a little snippet found out that he had actually FI WIN? The electorate appears Affairs. Servulo Baeza, who is a from a Channel 5 news report built on someone else’s property. to have a very low tolerance for former Area Representative and on the sordid story: “Documents The land that Baeza sold him was the PUP and if it doesn’t mend its Government Minister is being obtained in Venezuela by the elsewhere on the island. No one way very fast, the people will be appointed CEO in the Ministry Government’s delegation confirm in government offered to help out in the streets calling for their of Agriculture, Food Security and that as per the wiring instructions him and Popper ended up having removal shortly. Enterprise and the former Orange of former Chief Executive Officer Walk East’s Dr. Marco Tulio in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mendez is to be appointed as Amalia Mai, the Venezuelan grant CEO for the Ministry of Health. was divided into two payments, a For those persons living well publicized ten million U.S. amongst us who may not dollars to the Central Bank’s remember or are too young to accounts in New York plus an remember these individuals and undisclosed ten million U.S. their history, we will do a baggage to a Belize Bank account in check. We start with Narda London.” Garcia who was the CEO/General Next we move on to Dr. Manager of at the Social Security Marco Tulio Mendez aka Dr. Board when the PUP almost ran Marco ‘TOO LOW’ Mendez. the organization bankrupt with He is now the CEO in the crooked deals they made with Ministry of Health. Belizean friends and cronies such as Friend may remember him most from Glenn et al. All fingers pointed when he was charged with six to her to be complicit and at counts of aggravated assault of minimum negligent. Thousands an indecent nature in February of Belizeans who took to the 2015. Those charges forced his streets first in peaceful protest exit from politics and caused and later on to rioting until the him not to seek re-election in his government was forced to fire Orange Walk East constituency Garcia and conduct a Senate later on in the same year. Later inquiry. Below is an extract from on in August of that year, a the senate inquiry: charge of carnal knowledge, as “The report before you Mr. it was then known, was added. President contains also what I All the charges stemmed from think the society we live in is acts of alleged inappropriate eager to find out. Who will go to sexual touching and contact with jail. Who will be arrested. Who two minor females who were will have to seek the services very close to him. Older persons of attorneys and so forth. The would refer to him as someone committee is satisfied that there who climbs the tree by the trunk was negligence and recklessness and slides down the branches in execution of the duty in or some would refer to him as approving the purchase, and the an alligator, who eats his own sale of the mortgage loans listed eggs. below and in the signing of the Finally, there is former Page 5 The GuardIan Sunday, November 22, 2020 United Democratic Party NOTICE

The United Democratic Party is accepting countrywide applications from suitably qualified candidates to contest the March 3, 2021 municipal elections. Application forms can be downloaded from the UDP website www.udp.org.bz, or by calling the UDP Secretariat at 227-6440 or 227-2311

Completed applications, along with a recent police record, in a sealed envelope, are to be addressed to: The Chairman United Democratic Party Youth for the Future Drive Belize City, Belize The deadline for the receipt of applications is at 5:00 pm on Friday, December 18, 2020. Page 6 The GuardIan Sunday, November 22, 2020 Party Leader, Hon. Patrick Faber, The Guardian Newspaper, Wave Radio & TV, and the entire UDP family wish all Garinagu a Happy Garifuna Settlement Day 2020! Page 7 The GuardIan Sunday, November 22, 2020 The Implications of an illegal cattle trade One day after the general also needs to be taken into elections, on Thursday November account. Currently, the land 12, Jose Abelardo Mai told Jules borders are closed and for the Vasquez that, “As we were driving PUP government and Mai to up to Belmopan a while ago, I got not be sanctioning the free flow some texts asking us if they can of cattle through unestablished export cattle and my response to points along the border it is them was yes, load the trucks and going contrary to the Statutory get the cattle out.” Mai was in Instrument which closed the fact not even sworn in as an area borders in the first place. This representative and much less as allows for free movement the Minister of Agriculture when of persons in trading points he made an executive decision. On Cattle facilitating the spread of Covid- the following day, cattle farmers concern is that under the United the issue of taxation. With the 19. Those who interact with the resumed the informal exportation States Mexico Canada Agreement way the trade is now happening, Guatemalans then return into the via the Bullet Tree Area. There (USMCA), Mexicans should not there is no accountability and country and to their communities is no telling how many animals engage or tolerate any illegal trade no telling how many heads of increasing the risk of infections. have been exported or much with either Belize or Guatemala. cattle are being exported and the But there is more. Without less how much tax revenue the The reinvigorated informal government receives no revenue accountability, there is no telling Government of Belize has lost cattle trade between Belize and by way of taxes. The informal exactly how many heads of cattle as a result of the maneuver. That Guatemala then, violates Mexico’s cattle trade is estimated to yield are sent out and the farmers can however is the least of the concerns obligations under the USMCA. over 70 million dollars in revenue engage in money laundering. for the country of Belize. A nonchalant Mai’s response of which the Government receives They can claim any number by Former Attorney General, to this was, “if there are restrictions absolutely nothing. way of sales of cattle and with Michael Peyrefitte explained on the Guatemalan part, that is a The Covid-19 pandemic that any amount of revenue that any responsible government Guatemalan problem, it is not is another dimension which gained by this activity. cannot simply take the position of the Belizean problem.” Peyrefitte sending cattle out of the country has a different view however. without it being formalized. He He states that, “if we continue to explained that the move has allow the illegal trade, it will hurt international implications. He said Mexico and if it hurts Mexico it that the Mexicans have told the will hurt Mexico’s relation with Government of Belize in the past Belize.” that 80% of the cattle that reaches Outside of international Guatemala goes into Mexico. The relations being affected, there is Page 8 The GuardIan Sunday, November 22, 2020 No plan to fight Covid Soup Kitchen in Cayo Despite the COVID-19 pandemic and its negative effects, some residents in the Cayo District have stepped up to the plate to meet the challenges. Through their collective efforts, they have opened a soup kitchen in Santa Elena Town near the Elections and Boundaries Commission Building. One person that is doing that is Jennifer King, a former resident of New York City, who Jennifer King is the organizer has quietly been serving food of a soup kitchen in Santa Elena in Santa Elena since March of Town, Cayo this year when the COVID-19 floods have also increased the numbers began to show up. demand for food. As a result, Michel Chebat Jennifer King along with volunteer Donald Brown has It has been a week since the Belizean public is that the Jessica Eiko began buying had to increase King’s cooking the PUP won the elections measures put in place by the groceries from their own output. by a landslide and even after former administration will pockets to deliver the food Food is normally given out that period of time, there is remain in place. He added that to such places as Santa Cruz, at 5:30 p.m. every Tuesdays and no indication as to how the he has been consulting to see Kontiki, Bullet Tree and Santa Thursdays and on Saturdays Covid-19 pandemic will be what can be done. And as much Familia. at 7:30 a.m. A crew of four addressed. Some view this as as Chebat keeps on consulting, For Jennifer King, COVID volunteers usually turn up to lack of planning and lack of the numbers keep on rising. 19 has been brutal as she lost prepare, deliver, and clean-up strategy. Meanwhile, the deaths This is particularly so after her internet-based job. King after the food has been given keep mounting. As we write, the General Elections which had some savings to buy a out. there are almost 100 persons has turned out to be a super- house in Belize; albeit those “I don’t have a lot of money, who have died as a result of spreader event. That, coupled savings are no longer there. But I am not rich…the idea was to Covid, yet there is absolute with the mass celebrations thankfully the Belize Electricity inspire those who have a little silence from the now Minister and lack of following of the Limited recently offered to more,” says Jennifer King. of Health and Wellness, Michel regulations in victory parties, help in mid-stream and now “There are women with Chebat. will see the numbers keep on 50 to 60 persons are supplied children who have absolutely The best he has offered rising. with food weekly. The recent nothing,” she added. Page 9 The GuardIan Sunday, November 22, 2020 KHMH marks World Prematurity Day World Prematurity Day is on the baby’s capacity to fight. marked annually on November RN Charlesworth says that 17 and this year, it is being held it is quite the fight for these under the theme “Together for premature newborns, but it babies born too soon – Caring is awe-inspiring to see these for the future”. This year’s babies preserve and become theme has three primary focuses just as healthy as a full-term which include 1. Supporting baby. families; 2. Supporting They ended on a very healthcare professionals; and important note, that, as 3. Strengthening healthcare expressed in this year’s theme, systems. These become it requires cohesive effort from increasingly important topics everyone, including fathers, as the numbers of premature to care for these babies. Both babies, babies born before Williams and Charlesworth the 38-week gestation period, highlighted how important it increases. Worldwide, one in is for a premature baby, who ten babies are born premature cannot be exposed to too many and while the figures might World Prematurity Day celebrated at KHMH persons at once, to spend time not be as high in Belize, there healthy diet. When whatever trained to care for premature with both parents. This helps to are still hundreds of premature combination of external factors babies. Regardless of their develop the foundational work babies being born yearly. We leads to the premature birth, care, however, the life and which translates into a healthy were not able to get our hands the personnel at the NICU are quality of life depends entirely childhood for these children. on exact statistics but around 50% of the babies born for this year alone were born premature. That is around 152 babies and currently, in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH), some seven of 13 babies are premature. World Prematurity Day is one of the most important days in the year to raise awareness of the challenges and burden of preterm births globally. Seeing the importance, we are following suit in promoting awareness. Typically at the KHMH, babies who were born premature but have since been engaging in a healthy life would return to the hospital for activities throughout the day. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, this was not possible this year. Despite this reality, the staff at the KHMH, especially those at the NICU, still observed the day and used it an as opportunity to call attention to the heavy burden of death and disability and the pain and suffering that preterm birth causes. Both Neroli Williams, Unit Manager at the NICU, and RN Ashley Charlesworth shared the factors which contribute to premature childbirth. These include the age of the mother (extremely young or further on in years), diet, stress, and other external factors. As such, doctors and other health professionals tend to offer advice to expectant mothers, letting them understand the health risks to their child as well as to themselves should they have babies in consecutive years or fail to stick to a Page 10 The GuardIan Sunday, November 22, 2020 Nearly 100 COVID-19 related deaths, 2,164 active cases November 17 marked district with the second lowest exactly one year since the number of cases. The Toledo first case of COVID-19 was district has consistently reported discovered and reported. This the country’s lowest numbers first case was identified in and only one new case was Wuhan, China but over the last identified in the district. This is 364 days, has spread to just every from Independence which was continent and country. There are swabbed in Punta Gorda. now more than 55.9 million There are now 2,660 cases and more than 1.3 million recovered cases in the country, deaths recorded worldwide and informing that 43.98% of our countries are now beginning to cases remain active. The Ministry experience a second wave of this of Health (MOH) and the Office of virus. Belize is not exempt from the DHS reminds the population COVID-19 and given our very that prevention is key and to small population, having nearly practice safe interaction. These 100 reported deaths is becoming include the proper and consistent increasingly alarming. As of COVID_19 infographic use of a mask that cover your nose November 17, 2020, according Ranchito and Concepcion, and identified in that district. Six and mouth, physical distancing to the Office of the Director of one from Orange Walk Town but were found in Belmopan, two as much as possible, limiting Health Services (DHS), there swabbed in Corozal. Cayo now each in Cotton Tree and Bullet interactions with persons as much have been 96 recorded COVID- has the country’s fourth highest Tree, and one in Esperanza. as you can, and limiting exposure 19 related deaths. concentration of COVID-19 and No new cases were found in in public - in essence, keeping to The November 11 report as many as 11 new cases were the Stann Creek district, the online essential duties outside. recorded the number of deaths at 75 and as such, there have been more than 20 deaths in less than one week. In one single day, on November 13, there were as many as 10 deaths recorded. The number of COVID-19 fatalities continue to increase and currently, our total case fatality rate stands at 1.95%. For the majority of the cases, it is older persons or persons with preexisting comorbidities who have died as a result but there are also younger persons who have died. Each of these deaths should exist as a reminder that this virus is spreading and can lead to significantly dire ends. It, however and unfortunately, seems that this message is not being resounded enough with persons still gathering and socializing. With 2,164 active cases in the country, and this number increasing daily, the spread of COVID-19 remains a quite difficult reality. Orange Walk continues to see the highest numbers of the disease and of the 37 cases, which were identified on November 17, 11 cases were found in that district. Six were found in Orange Walk Town, two in Guinea Grass, and one each in San Jose Palmar, Chan Pine Ridge, and San Lazaro. The Belize District, which includes the numbers for San Pedro and Caye Caulker, is not too far behind. Nine new cases were found here, six in Belize City, two in San Pedro, and one from San Pedro swabbed in the city. Five new cases were found in Corozal, the district with the country’s third highest number of infections. Two were identified in Corozal Town, one each in Page 11 The GuardIan Sunday, November 22, 2020 New study suggests BELIZE SOCIAL INVESTMENT FUND TENDER NOTICE Belizean ancestors Country: Belize Project: Caribbean Development Bank Loan No: 25/SFR-OR-BZE Project ID: 1509/8/H3 Contract Number: H/SL3-03/2020 National Competitive were consuming corn Bidding (NCB) Deadline: November 30, 2020 1. The Government of Belize has received funding through the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) towards the cost of Eligible Sub-projects and intends to apply part of the for thousands of years funds to cover eligible payments under the contract for Caye Caulker Health Center Construction, Caye Caulker Village, Belize District, Belize.

2. The Social Investment Fund, a Statutory Corporation, established under the Social Investment Fund Act No. 3 of 1996 and located at Constitution Drive, Belmopan, Cayo District, hereby invites tenders from suitably qualified contractors for the construction of the following:

The contract proposes to: The project intends to complete the construction of a two (2) storey reinforced concrete building with a floor interior area of approximately 5,000 ft2. The first floor of the structure will serve as apartments for the facility’s staff; whereas, the ground floor will serve as a health facility providing medical services to the community.

The structure is equipped with a reinforced concrete deep foundation and a reinforced concrete ground floor slab. Column and beam frames are to be constructed of reinforced concrete, while the building is to be enclosed with walls of reinforced concrete masonry units. The first-floor slab and the roof structures are to be constructed of reinforced concrete. All internal and external walls are to be painted with institutional grade paint. The restrooms floor and wall surfaces will be finished with ceramic tiles while all other interior and exterior floors are to have a concrete finish as specified. The contract will include for the installation of interior and exterior timber doors. Louvered windows, constructed of aluminum with painted finish, will be installed on Corn exterior walls. Storage cabinets, as needed per space, will also be provided through Archaeologists studying an to a plant they called maize. this contract. Provisions for the installation of electrical, plumbing, water supply and waste water systems, in accordance with the regulations of the respective authorities, ancient Maya settlement in Belize The English labelled this plant will be adhered to accordingly. have made an amazing discovery. Indian corn. Over time, genetic They’ve concluded that people modifications led to corn with the 3. Final (Project Site) Destination as specified in BDS: Caye Caulker Village, Belize District have been eating maize or corn uniformly yellow, sweet kernels for thousands of years. Explorers that we think of as corn today. 4. Social Investment Fund now invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified bidders are getting close to pinpointing Restaurants in the Cayo for the construction works in the aforementioned areas. the era when humans turned from District frequently serve food 5. Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding (NCB) being hunters to being farmers. with maize ingredients as their procedures specified in the CDB’s Guidelines for Procurement (January 2006), and Scientists from the University main base. Thus, there is the are open to all bidders countries eligible for procurement under European Investment of Exeter in the UK recently delicious supply of ‘enpanades’, Bank funded projects which includes CDB member countries. completed their intensive study ‘salbutes’ and corn-based drinks 6. Qualification requirements include (a) The bidder shall furnish unaudited or audited of human remains that were that can carry a worker throughout financial statements of the firm for years 2017, 2018 and 2019 to confirm an average annual turnover of at least BZ$1,000,000.00 (b) Bidders should have general experience buried in the Maya Mountains. the day. under contracts in the role of contractor, JV member, subcontractor, or management It’s possible the remains have How did scientists discover contractor for the years 2017, 2018 and 2019 with activity of at least five (5) months been there for 10,000 years, but what these ancient Maya were in each year starting 1st January, 2017 (c) Bidders should have specific experience as a prime contractor, joint venture member, management contractor, or subcontractor, the scientists couldn’t be specific eating? They used a technique between 1st January 2010 and the bid submission deadline and should have less than or about that. The remains were called radiocarbon dating of the equal to four (4) contracts, each of a minimum value of BZ$375,000.00, but with a total surprisingly well-preserved. bones. value of all contracts equal or more than BZ$1,500,000.00 (d) demonstrate cash flow (including access to credit) of BZ $100,000.00 of which not more than BZ$20,000.00 They could be specific T h e y e s t i m a t e d t h a t can be materials (e) other provided in the respective Bid Documents. about other findings, however, 4,700 years ago, corn or maize especially those related to the diet accounted for one-third of 7. A secured “sample” electronic Bid document can be shared with interested Bidder of these people. Their findings peoples’ diets. About 700 years at the address below, starting November 2, 2020, on week days between 8:00 a.m and 4:00 p.m. for viewing purpose only (has a time restriction for viewing). A complete set show that, contrary to previous later, it accounted for 70% of the of Bidding documents (hard-copy or electronic version) can be purchased by interested theories, people were eating corn typical human diet. bidder upon payment of a non-refundable fee of BZ $150.00. Requests may be made more than 4000 years ago. The findings show that corn by personal application or in writing to the address below. Written applications must be clearly marked: “Tender for Caye Caulker Health Center Construction, Caye They clearly liked it because has always been an important Caulker Village, Belize District, Belize”. The method of payment will be by cash there was evidence they were crop. It’s still important today deposited to, or Bank transfer to BSIF’s Bank Account only. Please request for the eating large amounts of it. when it accounts for a large banking details at the address below. We are not accepting cash payment at the BSIF Office. Maize and corn are the same percentage of the human diet thing. When the English colonists globally. Every country is highly 8. Deadline for bids is at or before 10:00 a.m., November 30, 2020 at the address arrived in the new world, the dependent on corn and corn below. Bids will be opened virtually at 10:00 a.m., December 2, 2020 at the Social Investment Fund, 3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive, Belmopan, Cayo District in native people introduced them products. the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to participate. The link is https://bit.ly/31ACuQU . Electronic bidding will not be permitted. Late bids will be rejected. All bids must be accompanied by a “Bid Security” of BZ$ 14,000.00 or an equivalent amount in a freely convertible currency or Bank Guarantee. The bid validity period is 90 days.

9. A Virtual Pre-bid meeting with interested eligible bidders will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 17, 2020. The link is https://bit.ly/31ACuQU. Bidders can participate in the meeting that will be held at Belize Social Investment Fund Conference Room, Belmopan, Cayo District, Belize to address any queries that contractors may have about the bidding documents or the scope of works. Contractors who buy packages are urged to attend.

10. The address referred to above is:

Contact: Mrs. Therese Arzu Procurement Officer Social Investment Fund 3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive Belmopan Cayo District Tel: 822-0239/822-0508 E-mail: [email protected], cc: [email protected] [email protected] Page 12 The GuardIan Sunday, November 22, 2020 Page 13 The GuardIan Sunday, November 22, 2020 Page 14 The GuardIan Sunday, November 22, 2020

YOUTH TALKS Good Governance 101 By Thamar Jones governance, effective leadership It is also important to stop Efficiency A change in government and economic prosperity. corruption. The decision making The local government should was determined by elections Effective leadership and good process must be transparent, implement decisions and follow held in Belize exactly one week governance are two sides of followed and understood by the processes in the interests of the ago. A historic landslide victory the same coin. The two have people. This means that they will people. These processes must it was for the PUP on November many elements in common. What be able to understand see how and make the best use of available 11, 2020 in the 501. The people is good governance from the why a decision was made. people, resources and time to had spoken and some celebrated perspective of the youth? Well, the 4. Accountability ensure the best possible results hoping against hope that this new requirements for good governance A c c o u n t a b i l i t y i s a for their community. administration would once and include: political stability, a fundamental requirement of good 9. Leadership Qualities for all, illustrate a desire to lead people-friendly administration, an governance. Local government and Vision in the spirit of good governance. unbiased judiciary, participation has an obligation to report and There must be a clear, All too quickly that hope turned of the people, decentralization, explain, and is responsible for the exciting idea of where we are to disappointment when a list accountability and transparency, consequences of decisions it has heading and what we are trying of government ministry CEO sustainability and long-term made on behalf of the community to accomplish. There must also appointees was leaked. The goals, adherence to the rule of it represents. be the ability to plan strategically. list would reveal that men and law, adoption of new technology 5. Participation Great leaders are outstanding at women who were involved in and the fulfilment of basic needs Success of good governance strategic planning. It’s another unforgiveable and illegal acts of the people. is impossible without participation one of the more important corruption would once again be What does good governance of people. All those people who leadership strengths. They have given jobs that they could not be look like? Some components of all are interested in a decision the ability to look ahead, to trusted to carry out with integrity. good governance are: should have the opportunity anticipate with some accuracy But the nation is not sitting idly 1. Rule of Law to participate in the process where the industry and the by. The youth of Belize especially We must abide by the law. for making that decision. The markets are going. are more engaged than ever in And not just the citizenry. No participation can be done in 10. Integrity how we are governed. one is above the law. It requires a number of ways, via open The core of integrity is Hence, good governance that the Prime Minister, Supreme meetings, referenda, petitions, truthfulness. Integrity requires 101. Governance is the act of Court rulers and other government etc. that you always tell the truth, to governing or ruling. It is the officials take an oath of law to 6. Responsiveness all people, in every situation. set of rules and laws framed follow the constitution. The local government must Good governance is not by the government that are to 2 . F r e e d o m o f take responsibility to serve the just a function of central and be implemented through the Information needs of the entire community local governments alone but also representatives of the state. In Information should be while balancing competing judiciaries, media, private and summary, governance is what provided in easily understandable interests in a timely, organized corporate sectors, NGOs, etc. governments do. Governance is forms and media. It should be and responsive manner. Good governance is an ideal, the physical exercise of the policy freely available and directly 7 . E q u i t y a n d which is difficult to achieve in while the government is the body accessible to those who will be Inclusiveness its totality. Very few countries through which this is done. affected by governance policies A society’s well-being and societies have come close G o o d g o v e r n a n c e i s and practices, as well as the depends on ensuring that all its to achieving good governance definitely a fundamental right. outcomes resulting therefrom. members feel that they have in its totality. There are direct links among good 3. Fighting corruption a stake in it and do not feel Governance typically excluded from the mainstream involves well-intentioned of society. This requires all people who bring their ideas, Mennonite released after groups, but particularly the most experiences, preferences and vulnerable, have opportunities other human strengths and being caught border jumping to improve or maintain their shortcomings to the policy- well-being. This can be achieved making table. Good governance On Tuesday morning, a only if the leader gives such is achieved through an on-going Mennonite man identified as opportunity; otherwise, the discourse that attempts to capture Cornie Nelson was caught by society, particularly, those who all of the considerations involved police and customs officials in the are vulnerable, have no chance in assuring that stakeholder Blue Creek Area coming into the to reflect their interest. interests are addressed and country with 70 sacks of beans 8. Effectiveness and reflected in policy initiatives. loaded on a tractor. The man was detained by police and taken to the Orange Walk Police Station. No sooner had he reached the Classifieds station than a call came from the Liquor License Notice - Notice is hereby given that under the Intoxicating Ministry of Agriculture for the Liquor Licence Ordinance Chapter 150 of the Laws of Belize, Revised man to be released. Edition 2000, that Frances Del Valle is applying for the renewal of a The incident now highlights Restaurant Liquor License for the year 2021 to operate “Caladium Restaurant” located at Market Square, Belmopan, Cayo District. the condoning of illegal Cornie Nelson Liquor License Notice - Notice is hereby given that under the Intoxicating activities at the highest level. and as Covid-19 is ravaging our Liquor Licence Ordinance Chapter 150 of the Laws of Belize, Revised It is noteworthy that the man northern neighbor country of Edition 2000, that Ruben Campos is applying for the renewal of a Beer is considered a border jumper Mexico, all health concerns are Liquor License for the year 2021 to operate “CJ’s Mart” located at when the borders are closed being disregarded. #30 Stadium Street, Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District. Page 15 The GuardIan Sunday, November 22, 2020 Nearly seven pounds of weed BELIZE SOCIAL INVESTMENT FUND TENDER NOTICE found stashed in vehicle Country: Belize Project: BNTF 9: Caribbean Development Grant – GA61/ BZE Project ID: 1509/9/WS4 Contract Number: W/B9/08-2020 National Competitive Bidding (NCB) Deadline: November 30, 2020

1. The Government of Belize has received funding through the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) towards the cost of Eligible Sub-projects and intends to apply part of the funds to cover eligible payments under the contract for San Jose Village and San Pablo Village Joint Water Supply System Rehabilitation, Orange Walk District, Belize.

The contract proposes to: Carlo Moreno Nina Moreno The contract includes for the supply and installation of all requisite materials, equipment, and relevant appurtenances for approximately 15, 000 feet of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) transmission and distribution lines; installation of approximately 900 service connections; construction of pumping facilities; and the installation of all requisite electrical works. Works will also include for the construction of a chain link perimeter fence which will cordon the pumping facilities and storage facilities.

3. Final (Project Site) Destination as specified in BDS: San Jose Village and San Pablo Village, Orange Walk District, Belize

4. The Social Investment Fund now invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified bidders for the construction works in the aforementioned areas. (L-R) Delcia Daniels, Elsa Echeverria and Francis Gentle 5. Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding (NCB) On Thursday, November 12, procedures specified in the CDB’s Guidelines for Procurement (January 2006), 2020, at about 12:15 p.m. while and are open to all bidders who are legally incorporated or otherwise organized police were conducting a vehicle in, and have their principal place of business in an eligible country. Eligible countries are member countries of CDB. checkpoint between Milse 38 and 39 on the George Price 6. Qualification requirements include (a) The bidder shall furnish unaudited Highway, when they stopped and or audited financial statements of the firm for years 2017, 2018 and 2019 to confirm an average annual turnover of at least BZ$ 1,000,000.00 (b) Bidders searched a black Ford Explorer should have General Experience under contracts in the role of contractor, JV headed to Belmopan. At the member, subcontractor, or management contractor for the years 2017, 2018 and time, the vehicle was occupied 2019 with activity of at least five (5) months in each year starting st1 January, by Carlo Crescencio Moreno, 2017. (c) Bidders should have Specific Experience with a minimum of similar contracts specified that have been satisfactorily and substantially completed a 30-year-old fisherman; Nina as a prime contractor, as a joint venture member, management contractor, or Yolanda Moreno, a 33-year- Parcels of cannabis discovered by subcontractor, between 1st January 2010 and the bid submission deadline and old teacher; Francis Gentle, a police during the search should have less than or equal to four (4) contracts, each of a minimum value of BZ$ 250,000.00, but with a total value of all contracts equal or more that 28-year-old fisherman; Elsa of suspected cannabis weighing BZ$1,000,000.00. (d) demonstrate cash flow (including access to credit) of Maria Echeverria, a 29-year-old to 3,146 grams. BZ $400,000.00 of which not more than BZ$300,000.00 can be materials (e) domestic and Delcia Daniels, 54- As a result, all persons were other provided in the respective Bid Documents. year-old Belizean housewife, all jointly charged for Possession 7. A secured “sample” electronic Bid document can be shared with interested of Corozal. A search of the spare of Controlled Drugs with Intent Bidders at the address below, starting November 2, 2020, on week days wheel which was mounted under to Supply. While being escorted between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. for viewing purpose only (has a time the rear cargo area of the vehicle to the Belmopan Police Station, restriction for viewing). A complete set of Bidding documents (hard-copy or electronic version) can be purchased by interested bidders upon payment of resulted in the discovery of three Carlo Moreno attempted to bribe a non-refundable fee of BZD $150.00. Requests may be made by personal parcels of cannabis. A further police officer Cpl. Richard Arnold application or in writing to the address below. Written applications must be search in the left passenger door with $1,500. As a result, he was clearly marked: “San Jose Village and San Pablo Village Joint Water Supply panel resulted in an additional System Rehabilitation, Orange Walk District, Belize”. The method of additionally charged for the crime payment will be by cash deposited to, or Bank transfer to the Social Investment three parcels of cannabis, bringing of Attempting to Corrupt a Public Fund’s bank account only. A request for the Social Investment Fund’s banking the items to a total of six parcels Officer. details can be made at the address below. The Social Investment Fund is not accepting cash payment at this time.

8. Deadline for bids is at or before 10:00 a.m., November 30, 2020 at the Remanded for aggravated address below. Bids will be opened virtually at 10:00 a.m., December 2, 2020 at the Social Investment Fund, 3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive, Belmopan, assault with hammer Cayo District in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to An elderly security guard is participate. The link to access the virtual bid opening is as follows: https:// bit.ly/31ACuQU . Electronic bidding will not be permitted. Late bids will be on remand at the Belize Central rejected. All bids must be accompanied by a “Bid Security” of BZ$12,000.00 Prison following his arraignment or an equivalent amount in a freely convertible currency or Bank Guarantee. on Monday, November 16 on The bid validity period is 90 days. a charge of aggravated assault. 9. A Virtual Pre-bid meeting with interested eligible bidders will be held at 2:00 67-year-old Wilbert Savery, a p.m. on Tuesday, November 17, 2020. The link to access the virtual Pre-bid resident of Crooked Tree, has meeting is as follows: https://bit.ly/31ACuQU. Bidders can participate in the been accused of assaulting Nicole meeting; whereby, queries will be addressed. Bidders are urged to attend. Martinez with a steel hammer. 10. The address referred to above is: This incident is said to have taken place on Saturday, November 14, Contact: Mrs. Therese Arzu Procurement Officer 2020 but according to Savery, Social Investment Fund he assaulted no one. As such, he 3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive pleaded not guilty to the charge Wilbert Savery Belmopan Cayo District and was offered bail in the sum to post bail and was remanded to Tel: 822-0239/822-0508 E-mail: [email protected], of $1,000 plus one surety of the Belize Central Prison until cc: [email protected] the same. Unfortunately for January 12, 2021 or until he can [email protected] Savery, however, he was unable meet bail. Page 16 The GuardIan Sunday, November 22, 2020 No foul play suspected in Man pulls firearm body of Guatemalan found at neighbor The lifeless body of a A resident of Mayflower Guatemalan man was found Street in Belize City is on remand floating in the sea some five at the Belize Central Prison after miles northeast of Hunting he was accused of pulling a gun at Caye. The discovery was made his neighbor. 20-year-old Shemar on Tuesday, November 10 by Kelly allegedly pulled a gun at his a fisherman, Walter Garbutt. neighbor, 24-year-old Percival Garbutt was quick to notify Pilgrim, on Saturday, November the Belize Coast Guard and 7, 2020. Kelly was arraigned personnel were deployed to in the Belize City Magistrate’s recover the body. The body was Court before Magistrate Khadeen later identified as that of 29- Palmer where he pleaded not year-old Francisco Domingo Ac guilty to the single charge Shemar Kelly Tzalam, who was last seen alive Francisco Tzalam of aggravated assault with a bicycle on Banak Street heading in his boat near the Livingston case. The case is being handled firearm. Due to the nature of the to Mayflower Street when he Izabal, Guatemala gas station. as a sudden death case, believed offense, bail was denied and he rode past Kelly. That is when It is believed that he was caught to be caused by drowning. was remanded into custody at Kelly reportedly drew a firearm, in the rough waters caused by COMPOL Williams says that the Belize Central Prison until pointed it to Pilgrim and told him Hurricane Eta and died at sea. following the post mortem, January 14, 2021. not to pass the area again. Fearing Commissioner of Police the body will be handed over Pilgrim reported to police for his life, Pilgrim reported the Chester Williams says that foul to the relevant Guatemalan that at around 7:00 p.m. on matter to police and requested play was not suspected in this authorities. November 7, he was riding his court action. Minor killed in San Ignacio Minor shot in Ladyville A minor has been killed in Ladyville Police are minor, along with the adult who the Cayo District. A 16-year- working to solve a shooting accompanied him to the police old boy was found motionless incident in which a minor was station, were at a yard located on about 200 feet from the San shot and injured. Fortunately, Perez Street in Ladyville Village Ignacio Community Hospital that minor was not too badly when they were ambushed by on Wednesday night. A badly hurt and went to the Ladyville a gunman. That person fired injured Gregory Lewis was Police Station along with an several shots toward them, discovered around 8:00 p.m. by adult to report the incident. causing the injuries to the minor. Special Constable Jaime Pinelo, It was at around 2:00 a.m. on The police do not believe the while on his way from Bullet Sunday, November 15 when minor was the intended target, Tree Falls to San Ignacio. they visited the station. There, especially considering that the The minor was taken to the the officers saw the minor with adult with whom he was is San Ignacio Hospital where he an apparent gunshot wound to known to the police. As such, was pronounced dead on arrival. the neck. He was transported to they suspect that he was the Police investigators were able the hospital for treatment and actual target and has had a long to find 12 .9 mm utilized shells released later that morning. standing dispute with other near the body. Gregory Lewis Police investigations persons in the area. Police are Commissioner of Police have since revealed that that seeking a suspect. Chester Williams has told the media that Gregory Lewis was still alive when he was found and before dying, he disclosed the person who caused his injury. Based on that information police now have one person in custody. The police are also now trying to compile the evidence to be able to charge that suspect. For the latest in news - it’s the Guardian! Page 17 The GuardIan Sunday, November 22, 2020 feeling slighted. Address it. the grid somewhere. It’ll be romantic and rejuvenating for both of you! Libra Sep 23 – Oct 22 Your Horoscope If you recently started to date Capricorn Dec 22 – Jan 19 someone and introduced them to your For most of the week you might family, then you might be in for a not focus on matters of the heart. Aries Mar 21 – Apr 19 or an agreement to take some time apart disappointment. It looks like someone in Professional demands will require your Early in the week you might so you can both decide if the relationship your clan will express strong disapproval time and attention and since the call of feel like you’ll never have the kind of is worth pursuing. Don’t rush into a final in your choice of romantic partner. duty will be so strong in career, it’s likely romantic connection with someone decision. He or she might feel that you’re too that romance will be the last thing on you dream of. If you’re single, the good for this person for one reason or your mind. By the weekend, however, chronic feeling that you’ll have to settle Cancer Jun 21 – Jul 22 another. You might hear admonishment all of that will change. Venus moves if you ever want to settle down might Your partner might seem like a from your family member that you’re into your social 11th house and you’ll completely take over. Fortunately, by total curmudgeon this week. He or she cheating yourself out of real love or be ready to enjoy time with friends. If Saturday, it’ll ease up. You’ll hold tight is absolutely no fun and might even be something else extremely judgmental single, one of your pals might introduce to your conviction that if you can’t have grumpy and a total downer! You might in nature. Do your best not to let it hurt you to a new love interest. Give it a a deeply profound romance that leaves want to spend time shopping together or you. chance. your heart and life forever transformed, doing a decorating project but he or she is you’d rather stay single. likely to shut it down. Complaints about Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 21 Aquarius Jan 20 – Feb 18 money being tight or whatever you want You might feel like all is hopeless There might be more of an issue Taurus Apr 20 – May 20 to do not being the smart way to spend in your love life early in the week. between you and your love interest about For most of the week you might money right now are all possible. Unrequited love or a very difficult the cultural or spiritual differences you feel extremely gloomy about your love romantic situation that you don’t believe have than you initially anticipated. The life prospects. It’s as if you’re always Leo Jul 23 – Aug 22 you can overcome is likely. If there deeper you get into this love connection, working for your love, going above and You’re a giver, and when you is a breakup or breakdown in a love the more you realize that core values, beyond to earn it. It might be time to ask give, you do it straight from the heart. connection, try to understand that beliefs, or traditions you have are not yourself why you feel the need to go to Unfortunately, it’s possible you’ll it happened because the foundation aligned to your sweetheart’s. This can such lengths in order to feel worthy of be feeling a little used and abused between you just wasn’t built on solid be anything from radically different love in the first place. Reciprocity in any in terms of how much you’ve been ground. If, however, your love life is religious backgrounds to educational love scenario is a must because if you’re doing for the one you love or any love solid, then there might simply be a test to achievements. not getting anything in return, is this prospects. If someone is not expressing endure this week. You’ll pull through. really a partnership or someone worth complete appreciation and adoration for Pisces Feb 19 – Mar 20 pursuing as a potential love interest? how amazing you are, it is likely very Sagittarius Nov 22 – Dec 21 There might be some difficulty deflating for you, because your heart Don’t listen to what any of your with your partner and his or her financial Gemini May 21 – Jun 20 shrivels up without deserved validation friends have to say this week about your habits. He or she could have made It’s a “no deal” kind of feeling for and appreciation. love life. You’ll only get the worst-case mistakes in the past that they’re still most of this week when it comes to love scenario version of your love life and trying to remedy. The problem is the two and romance. You might experience Virgo Aug 23 – Sep 22 current or future prospects. Your pals of you are now having a difficult time outright rejection from someone you’re If you’ve been showering someone might be well-meaning, but they will tying yourselves financially because one crushing on. This person may be more with gifts and lavish date nights without definitely focus on the negative side of you isn’t up to par. For instance, you interested in superficial connection any reward of feeling loved in return, more than the positive. You’re a glass- might discover that a loan for a home or than anything meaningful and once it’s possible the hole in your wallet will half-full kind of person, so this doom joint business venture can’t be in both you see this, you’ll know that he or she start to frustrate you almost as much as and gloom outlook is definitely not your of your names because the one with the wasn’t meant for you anyway. Another the hole in your heart. Yes, it does look style. If you’re coupled, you and your spotless credit needs to carry it. This will possibility is that you have been dating like a romantic disappointment is on the partner might decide to take a break definitely squeeze any romance out of someone and the loving vibes have horizon. It doesn’t have to be a complete from life’s hectic pace after Saturday and the week. Single? You’ll meet someone started to sour. There could be a breakup disaster, but it does look like you’re go on your own little couple’s retreat off you find deep and inspirational. Page 18 The GuardIan Sunday, November 22, 2020 Page 19 The GuardIan Sunday, November 22, 2020 Page 20 The GuardIan Sunday, November 22, 2020