Vol. 23 No. 25 Sunday, June 21, 2020 Page 2 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 an interregnum in providence when a circle of three or four Candice Pitts scolds Johnny Briceno people make the decisions for Dear Hon. John Briceno, This seems to be the from the Party. this party, when it is the standard I hope this letter finds you perpetuation of the diliberate and We really do hope that you bearers, who are in the trenches well. disgraceful underrepresentation will find it necessary, important, laboring to ensure victory. With I write to you as one of two of women in our political affairs, and urgent to look more closely such arrangements and attitudes, women Standard Bearers of the by a mass party for which you are at the Mesopotamia Division with victory may indeed come, but it People’s United Party, the party Leader. a view to ensure this is one of may either be stillbirthed, short- for which you are Leader. Given that your party will now the seats that the PUP must win, lived, or pyrrhic. As you may recall, you were have 29 men and two women to and of equal importance, that the My final concern is where the a member of the team in 2007, contest the next general elections, woman standard bearer becomes Belizean people are concerned, whose internal political reform led the hope is that you and your party a representative in any newly particularly those who have to the party’s mandate to ensure would now treat as priority the formed government, should there been neglected and excluded in there is a 30 percent representation candidacy of these two women. be one. communities such as Mesopotamia. of women in parliament. To compound the struggles Honorable Party Leader, I This UDP government has done To date, there seems to be of one of the only two women caution that to win an election in our people a disservice and an more lip service done by the candidates, I was given a division 2020 or 2021 with no women’s injustice. We hope that your party PUP rather than serious efforts to that was hitherto written off by representation will not look good will not repeat the mistake of this realize and actualize this mandate. the PUP, a UDP stranglehold, and for you nor your party, but would government and that your party There were at least four other one of the neediest constituencies. conversely characterize this Party will not perpetuate that cycle of opportunities where the PUP could Notwithstanding, my team and I as prehistotic. exclusion and neglect. We would have made a conscious effort to have been working diligently in My next concern is that we hate that the next elections may increase women’s representation, the Mesopotamia Division and also hope that you may find it be a win for the PUP, but another the most recent being for the having been making great strides. prudent and just to start include loss for the People. Queen Square division, but instead However, or rather unfortunately, all 30 standard bearers in the In her most recent address chose to advance the candidacy of our movement and progess have decisions that you make for to the nation, the Prime Minister men. been devoid of any real resources this party. There seems to be of Barbados, Hon. Mia Motley, stated that “Leadership is a lonely place,” but that “Leadership is Candice Pitts puts a scolding on about Leading.” Honorable Party Leader, PUP party leader, John Briceno you are at the helm of this party. Last week, a letter began What we need more than ever to circulate where PUP aspirant is Leadership–but a leadership for the Mesopotamia Division, that is connected to the people, a Candice Pitts, put a scolding leadership that listens, a leadership on her party leader (see letter that can address concerns above). To say the least, the meaningfully, and a leadership letter is testimony that all is that ensures we progress towards not well within that party. Pitts our just objectives. candidly reflects that the PUP Sincerely, simply does not care about Candice A. Pitts, PhD women in leadership. She notes that there have been at least four opportunities for the PUP The Guardian to have advanced women’s Protecting Freedom Rights Democracy representation but instead, “chose to advance the candidacy Candice Pitts Hon. Johnny Briceño editor: of men.” the only two women within the supported by the PUP. She Alfonso Noble She goes on to lament that PUP leadership are not being (Continued on page 4) ADVERTISING Louis Thompson Compositor: Kristen Jimenez More COVID-19 cases being imported Reporter: After around eight weeks at the Ramada Hotel for the MOH reminds the public Jem Smith without reporting a positive case mandatory period of 14-days that it continues its heightened CONTRIBUTORS: of COVID-19 in Belize, the after which a new sample will surveillance across the country and Byron Donaire Ministry of Health had announced be taken and processed. Of the underscores the prompt detection Rene Flowers two new cases in a matter of days. twelve, seven arrived via Belize’s and reporting of illegal crossings. Vanessa Guerrero Not even a week after the two northern border with Mexico and This is the second positive detected RECEPTIONIST/ACCOUNTS CLERK newest cases were announced, the remainder, including three case of COVID-19, which was Vanessa Gillett two more positive cases were American nationals, came through imported due to illegal crossings reported by the MOH, bringing the Philip Goldson International and the MOH advises that reporting Published by The the national total to 22. Airport. these crossings will prove vital in This 21st case was confirmed Case #22 was announced on being able to contain a potential Guardian Newspaper Limited after samples were taken from Tuesday, June 16 after another outbreak of the viral disease. Cor. Ebony St. & Bel China Bridge, persons arriving in country on a forty-five samples for SARS- While the country’s total P. O. Box 1898 Belize City, Belize flight from Texas, USA as a part of CoV2 were taken and processed. number of cases stands at twenty- Telephone: the repatriation exercise. He was This positive case is that of a two, we have so far had seventeen 207-5346, 207-5347 in Houston, Texas and was among male person caught entering recoveries. Sample tests for patient Fax: 227-5343 22 persons who were approved Belize illegally over the weekend #19, the case detected from a E-mail: [email protected] to enter the country on June 12. and who was swabbed as part of repatriated Belizean who was or [email protected] Since then, he has been placed MOH’s established protocol. He onboard a cruise ship, have now in mandatory quarantine and Dr. was found illegally entering in the rendered a second negative result. Website: www.guardian.bz Marvin Manzanero, Director Cayo District in western Belize; He is now considered recovered Printed by The Guardian Press of Health Services, says that he contact tracing for this particular and has been released from Cor. Ebony St. & Bel China Bridge, will remain in strict quarantine case is currently underway. quarantine. P. O. Box 1898 Belize City, Belize Page 3 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Page 4 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Second wave of COVID-19 in What’s driving cost of vegetables? Belize likely to come from Since the onset of COVID- onset of the rains, secondary 19 consumers have noticed a plots have now been planted in border jumpers spike in the cost of vegetables higher grounds and are a week For more than fifty days, in the number of positive cases at their local markets. The first or two away from maturity. we had gone without reporting brought into the country by the impression was that because That has driven up the prices any positive cases of SARS- repatriated Belizeans. The MOH there was limited movement of of produce such as tomatoes, CoV2, better known as the novel has worked tirelessly with the people and a drought the cost which sell at anywhere between coronavirus or COVID-19, in Ministry of Foreign Affairs and would have gone up. But since $75 and $100 per bucket at the Belize. At that time, the number other pertinent bodies to establish then, movement restrictions farm. That is then translated to stood at eighteen but since rigid protocols and mechanisms have begun to normalize and the retailer who then sells at then, we have had four more to decrease the possibility. the rains have begun and still $5.00 per pound. positive cases, with two being It is a concern, however, vegetables remain at an all-time Potatoes, which at this time detected in Belizeans returning that persons illegally crossing high. of the year is being imported, to the country as part of various the borders will in fact cause that Based on our visits at the are also selling at twice what repatriation exercises. The other possibility. Cases 20 and 22 are market, we found tomatoes at it would normally fetch. The two cases, cases 20 and 22, were imported cases which were only $5.00 a pound, sweet peppers reason for this is that those who reported in persons illegally detected as part of MOH’s new at $4.00 per pound, cabbage purchase are doing so from crossing our western border with protocol to test anyone found at $2.00 per pound, cilantro at Mexico and with the advent Guatemala. entering the country. This applies $15.00 per pound, potatoes at of COVID-19, the cost has Throughout this month, to persons entering legally or $2.00 per pound and cucumber also been hiked and passed to there are a number of Belizeans illegally, as, for now, they present at $0.75 per pound. Most of local importers. Among these expected to return to the country the only external threats of a these products are at over a added costs are new protocols through these repatriation second wave of COVID-19 in 100% increase and we sought to disinfect trucks as well as exercises. Director of Health Belize. Because it is easier to some answers from personnel the loading and unloading of Services Dr. Marvin Manzanero test and record person who enter at the Ministry of Food and products at the boarder which says that thus far, less than the country legally, the MOH’s Agriculture. naturally increase the cost of the eighty Belizeans have returned heightened surveillance during According to one senior produce. but more than 600 applications this time focuses on persons member, he explained that there While a habanero pepper have been received. The Ministry illegally crossing our borders. are multiple reasons why produce is selling for $0.25, there is of Health has its hands full The public is advised of promptly at the markets are so expensive. consolation that onions have with swabbing these persons on reporting cases of illegal crossings The staffer at the Ministry not seen an increase. There are arrival and again just before the with the hope of containing any explained that this year was still locally produced onions end of the 14-day mandatory possible importation of COVID- forecasted to be one that would in storage and is slowly being quarantine. They are anticipating 19. Likewise, they continue to have a prolonged drought. The released into the market. The more arrivals via our land and encourage everyone to practice forecast had it that this drought price of sweet peppers are also air borders but Dr. Manzanero and maintain physical distancing would have potentially been not as high as farmers have a says that it is not a concern that and proper hand washing up to September and possibly good supply being produced. we will have a significant spike etiquette. October. With that information With all that is going on, many farmers planted based on there is one glimmer of hope. that advice. Some planted in Our source explained that since Candice Pitts puts a low-lying areas that they would the implementation of the State not have typically planted in at of Emergency, we have seen a scolding... this time of the year. With the significant jump in interest in (Continued from page 2) decisions for this party.” onset of the rainy season, those home/backyard gardening. He claims that, “the hope is that For a political neophyte plots were completely destroyed explained that the Ministry has you and your party would now to openly attack the leadership by floods. Tomatoes, cilantro, been putting out about 4,000 treat as priority the candidacy of of the PUP signals a great habanero peppers, cabbage and assorted seedlings every three these two women.” Note that at problem within that party. More other produce were lost as a weeks and it is still slightly this point she distances herself importantly, it clearly articulates result of the floods. With the behind on orders. from the PUP claiming that it is that the PUP does not care for ‘your’ and not necessarily ‘our’ women and worse that it is being party. She then admits defeat led by less than a handful of Belize Announces Request in the constituency which she men. considers “a UDP stranglehold.” Pitts has had a history of for Interest Capitalization She cautions that, “to win an fighting against the leadership election in 2020 or 2021 with no of the PUP. Her first bout was in Belmopan. June 17, 2020. economic conditions and the women’s representation will not May 2018 when she was forced to 1:00 p.m. lockdown measures imposed by look good for you nor your party, step down as a potential candidate The Government of Belize many countries, including Belize, but would conversely characterize for the PUP in Port Loyola. At the today announced its intention to slow the spread of COVID- this Party as prehistoric.” time the leadership picked Gilroy to seek the consent of holders 19. Preliminary indications are The scolding does not end Usher as the candidate in that of Belize’s U.S. Dollar Bonds that Belize’s real gross domestic there, Pitts goes on to chide her division. At that time, she ranted due 2034 (the “Bonds”) to the product will contract by as much party leader in the decision making and railed against not only the capitalization of interest payments as 18% in 2020. process which she claims, “a circle leadership but the PUP women’s falling due on the Bonds through The Belize financial of 3 or 4 [sic] people make the group for not supporting her. February 20, 2021. authorities will be discussing this The COVID-19 pandemic request, and the circumstances has had a devastating effect on giving rise to it, with holders of the See News Belize’s economy. In recent Bonds over the next two weeks. 207-5346 years, Belize’s tourism industry A formal Consent Solicitation in the Guardian Newspaper accounted for approximately for temporary capitalization of 60% of the country’s foreign interest is expected to be launched Making? exchange earnings; however, in early July. The next scheduled tourism has collapsed due to the interest payment on the Bonds is Call the Guardian rapid deterioration of worldwide due on August 20, 2020. Page 5 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Opposition bails out Party over country on Belize’s recovery The Leader of the Opposition says Johnny has written the Prime Minister as “Real isn’t who’s with you For them, it is party over follows: at your celebration. Real is who’s country. They are a desperate “Dear Prime Minister: standing next to you at rock bunch that will seize every Thank you for the opportunity bottom.” possible opportunity to try to to Co-chair the National Oversight - Facebook Fan Page gain power. Capitalizing on the Committee. As the country faced Last week when it was made misfortune of the Belizean people the global pandemic of the Novel official that Johnny Briceño had is nothing strange to them. That Coronavirus (COVID-19) it was stepped down as co-chair of the is the thing they are best known imperative that both government Covid-19 National Oversight for. They see COVID-19 and the and opposition work together for Hon. Johnny Briceño Committee to, as he put it to hardships it has been causing for the benefit of all Belizeans. forward), the focus should now be return to his full time duties as Belize as a way to get back into Fully satisfied that we have on recovery. Leader of the Opposition, it came power. contributed to the best of our That topic however, seems as no surprise to us. We always Being on the NOC Johnny ability and with Cabinet and CEO too difficult for the Leader of the knew based on his history he could not play the town crier caucus making final determination Opposition to be a part of and has would choose his party over his role and not be told that you on all issues I believe it is now now made a coward’s exit. This country. The only surprise to us are there too. Now that he is time for me to return to my full- of course is the PUP’s answer to was that it took the length of time no longer a part of the NOC, time duties as Leader of the everything: to simply walk away. it did. the PUP’S plan is to blame the Opposition. Now to the greater concern, Our PUP sources told us Prime Minister and the UDP for On behalf of our entire PUP what if by some miracle they were that Johnny was pressured to everything from taking too long team I extend thanks and best to win the next General Election, step down. Those same sources to impose the state of emergency wishes.” what then? As part of the oversight told us that the hawks in the to taking too long to lift it, from It is then signed by John committee he would have been party objected to him being the taking too long to close the Briceño as Leader of the a part of the recovery exercise co-chair of the N.O.C. from the borders to taking too long to open Opposition. and would have had a leg up. His start, but they only allowed him, them, from not doing enough to What is noteworthy is that withdrawal now shows that he is because they knew it would be preventing illegal crossings that the country has not yet concluded unable to help the country with a political suicide not to have done can potentially bring the virus to the fight against COVID-19 and way forward. What then would so at the time. They decided to Belize to not allowing the cattle as such it seems premature for be his plan if his time were ever wait it out until a time when they people to flow freely across the Briceño to now be forsaking the to come? thought they would be able to border. greater good of all Belizeans for If we were to judge by what control the narrative. The PUP is of the opinion the sake of personal political he has already said, it seems that Briceño and the People’s that the UDP is going to lay down gain. What is more, now that he will have others make decision United Party have always put and die, but they are mistaken, the threat has been contained for the country. Those others of their selfishness and thirst for because our people are in fighting and what appears to be a modus course would be foreigners, in power over country. He did it just form. PUP will not be allowed operandi has been established particular the IMF. They of course like he did leading up to the I.C.J. to ascend to power, just because to deal with imported cases, (all do not have people in mind and the Referendum. Johnny has once they say so. The electorate will recent cases have been imported PUP’s recovery plan would set us again shown his lack of certain be shown that the PUP is not and appears to be the trend going on dark bitter days. dangling body part. He has shown an option for the UDP. We will his weakness as a leader of a party unmask them and expose them Two fires destroy that is seeking to form the next as the frauds they truly are. The government and as a person who electorate will be shown the real homes in Belize City wants to become the next Prime PUP without the mascara and Over the weekend, the fire alive and uninjured. Minister. filters. National Fire Service had to respond to two separate fires. The first one took place around 11:00 p.m. on Saturday night on Kut Avenue in Belize City. Fire officials arrived on the scene where they met the remains of an abandoned trailer home on fire. After getting the fire under control, the firemen attempted to locate the occupant of the home, Kareem Anderson, but were unsuccessful. This fire started as a result of a fire set on a garbage dump next to where the mobile home was. Eventually, that fire consumed the mobile home and its contents. On Sunday morning, another fire completely consumed the home of a second man. Louis Belisle, an undertaker of Belize City. He was asleep when the heat from the fire woke him. It was at around 6:30 that morning when Belisle woke up, saw the fire, and attempted to save some items. He was not successful, however, and is lucky to have managed to get out of the Page 6 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Page 7 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Page 8 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Page 9 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Page 10 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Taiwan Donates 1 Million BZD more in Medical Equipment and Materials to Belize On Tuesday, June 16, the Government of the Republic of China, Taiwan, through the embassy in Belize, handed over a million Belize dollars worth of equipment and material to the Ministry of Health in Belize for its continued fight against COVID-19. The materials included 200,000 surgical masks, 10,000 N-95 masks, 500 infrared forehead thermometers, 2,000 protective clothing, 4,000 isolation gowns, two automatic nucleic acid (PCR) analyzers, 720 PCR testing kits, and 10,000 nasal swabs. A further donation of five ventilators is expected from Taiwan’s Far Eastern Memorial Hospital. Remus Li-Kuo Chen, Donation of medical equipment to the Ministry of Health by the Republic of China (Taiwan) Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to Belize, hosted the handover ceremony at the Embassy in Belize City. Hon. Pablo Marin, Minister of Health accepted the donation on behalf of the Government of Belize. Senior staff and representatives from the Ministry of Health, the KHMH, and Northern Regional Hospital as well as leaders of Taiwanese community in Belize were also invited to join and witness this meaningful occasion. Previously, Taiwan has donated 60,000 surgical masks and cash donations amounting to 2.54 million Belizean dollars. The most recent donation will be distributed to health care facilities and laboratories across the country for use by frontline medical service providers, first responders and patients in Belize. At the donation ceremony, Ambassador Chen saluted the Ministry of Health along with all medical services providers and first responders for safeguarding the health and safety of all Belizean people. Ambassador Chen also expressed Taiwan’s sincere appreciation for Belize’s staunch support of Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Organization (WHO) and its annual World Health Assembly (WHA). The government of Taiwan, through its Embassy in Belize, will continue to work closely with our partners in the Government of Belize to weather this unprecedented challenge. The bilateral cooperation once again highlights the 31-year friendship between Taiwan and Belize which definitely benefits both our two peoples. Page 11 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Ground work for better drainage in Cayo The San Ignacio and Santa Elena Town Council is now preparing ground work to ease the flooding during heavy showers. Such an effort will reduce the rate of flooding into lower lying Cayo neighborhoods. L a s t T h u r s d a y , a groundbreaking was held at the Lower Area at the Independence Square in the Santiago Juan layout, San Ignacio Town. Mayor Earl Trapp Junior along with other members of the Council were present to witness the initial stage of the project. The entire project will clear approximately 7,000 feet of drains starting at the Santiago Juan Layout to the Orchard Members of the team responsible for the new drainage system in San Ignacio Area leading to the Macal River. Mayor Earl Trapp and the SISE Town Council are very grateful to the Pan American Development Foundation (PADF) and the Government of Taiwan for the technical and financial assistance for the flood mitigation project that is on its way. A release from the SISE Town Council states: “We continue to collaborate with stakeholders who want to assist in much needed infrastructure works for the betterment of the Twin Towns.” “We hope this will move flood waters coming from upper San Ignacio neighborhoods into the Macal River,” says Dr. Minerva Alvarez, Project assistant. “Two main reasons why we choose this location is to mitigate against flooding on Bullet Tree Road, which cuts off the Community Hospital from the Twin Towns during rains. Also, the excess water often floods the Independence Square neighborhood, and even now the area past the cemetery into downtown,” she added. Page 12 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Both the flu and Covid-19 More relaxation on curfew virus can overlap in the future and other restrictions About a week ago, the nation until midnight to be on public roads was able to breathe a sigh of and the like. relief when Attorney General and Besides shortened curfew Minister of National Security, Sen. periods, there is more good news. Hon. Michael Peyrefitte announced More businesses are now allowed that several restrictions would be to open and operate with the lifted. For the better part of the exception of a select few. For the year so far, ever since COVID- time being, all establishments are 19 was first detected in Belize, now legally operable except for the country was under a State of nurseries, daycares, and other child Emergency to prevent community care centers; bars, rum shops, night transmission of the viral disease. clubs, and discotheques also cannot A National Oversight Committee operate. All other businesses must was formed and made decisions on enforce social distancing and can curfews, essential businesses, and only operate up to an hour before While Belize is now with flu] are spreading fast and causing social gatherings which have been curfew on that given day or to the Covid-19 patient 22, the decision severe disease, complicating in place for quite some time now. time specified in accordance with had been taken by the Ministry diagnoses and presenting a We have, however, seen gradual their business license. On the other of Health, since patient 19, to double burden on the health care reductions on these restrictions hand, gyms, spas, playgrounds, and shift the testing process. The system. and being that it has been over parks are not allowed to open. Also, Ministry of Health will no longer Yet another, more favorable fifty days without community contact sports, such as basketball be doing random testing in the future also might be possible transmission, there have been more and volleyball, are now allowed general public, in asymptomatic as these viruses’ cross paths, reductions. again. The latest SI now also allows individuals. Lipsitch and other infectious While the SOE remains in for up to 100, versus forty, persons Instead, the Ministry of Health disease forecasters say. The place until the end of the month, to attend a social event such as a will continue testing anybody behavioral changes people have the new Statutory Instrument has wedding, funeral, receptions and with influenza-like illnesses or already adopted to flatten the allowed for greater freedom of parties, and meetings of social is hospitalized for severe acute curve of COVID-19—such as movement and extended curfew clubs. This now, obviously, allows respiratory illness. social distancing, hand washing, periods. As it now stands, effective for persons living outside one “But we are now going to and mask wearing—could lessen June 12, persons are allowed to particular household to gather be testing people once they start the impact of the flu. be in public between the hours socially. Social distancing protocols arriving in Belize and prior to them From even before the of 5:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. on must be in place, however, and leaving the quarantine facility,” emergence of COVID-19, the Sunday to Thursday. On Friday and the use of face masks or a mouth says Dr. Marvin Manzanero, Belize Ministry of Health already Saturday, the public is allowed up covering is mandatory. Director of Health Services. had its set of protocols on how to Such a move is in the right deal with influenza. Earlier this direction given that uncertainty year Dr. Russell Manzanero, Head about the future seems to be the of the Epidemiology Program had one sure thing in the coronavirus shared with us that COVID-19 pandemic. The virus that causes and Influenza share some similar the disease is likely to continue characteristics. circulating outside of Belize B o t h C O V I D - 1 9 a n d through the population until there Influenza can be spread via is a vaccine. With the flu season respiratory droplets to those in just around the corner, it is a case close proximity of the affected. of preparedness. Both conditions are caused by The overlap of COVID-19 and viruses, which are capable of influenza has epidemiologists and hijacking cellular mechanisms some policy makers concerned. to make more copies, which can According to Marc Lipsitch, then be ‘shed’ externally. Both an epidemiologist at Harvard COVID-19 and Influenza can University, the worst-case scenario cause Cytokine storms, which can is both [the coronavirus and the be overwhelming to the patient. Page 13 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 COVIDengue a risk in Belize Less Dengue cases so far this year The Ministry of Health is July 6. reporting a small reduction in the As reviewed earlier, the number of dengue cases over the COVID-19 pandemic is placing last few weeks. Over the past 12 immense pressure on health weeks, Belize had 102 dengue care and management systems cases from both the public and worldwide. Notwithstanding the private sectors. For the same period impact of COVID-19, there is a of 2019, Belize had 331 cases. crucial need to sustain efforts to Regionally there has been address dengue and other arboviral a 10% decline in dengue cases. diseases in the framework of the Earlier in the year, the Region Integrated Management Strategy was seeing two to three times for prevention and control of more cases. With the lockdowns arboviral diseases (IMSarbovirus), and restrictions from COVID- which includes management, Aedes species mosquito 19, such a drop in cases “…its epidemiology, patient care, The Pan-American Health “It has to be a shared been good,” says Kim Bautista, laboratory, integrated vector Organization (PAHO) expects responsibility. Dengue is a Chief of Operations at the Vector management, and environment. 2020 to be marked by high disease that is driven by a lot of Control Unit, within the Ministry The Pan American Health rates of dengue, which can fill social factors, and as residents of Health. Organization (PAHO) and World intensive care units and kill we need to do our part in terms of However, Corozal and Orange Health Organization (WHO) patients even as the COVID-19, ensuring that we are not keeping Walk remain high risk areas for now advise member States to the respiratory disease caused containers within our yards that dengue. In the Corozal District, make effective use of available by the novel coronavirus makes are breeding mosquitoes. That’s Libertad, Ranchito and Xaibe resources, as staff, equipment, and its presence known. During where the problem is and until account for the majority of cases. supplies are likely to be diverted to 2020, COVID-19 has claimed we can accept this and be a While in Orange Walk, the areas of provide response to the COVID-19 two Belizean lives, but last part of the solution, we cannot August Pine Ridge, Guniea Grass epidemic within countries. With year Dengue snuffed the lives realistically expect that the and San Jose also account for cases this in mind, arboviral disease of ten. Ministry of Health will be in of dengue. programs should aim to reduce the When both occur in parallel, every premises in the country Also due to COVID-19, it transmission and strive to identify it can be a recipe for disaster. to do inspections and rid of has slowed down the shipment early predictors of severe dengue Dr. Marvin Manzanero, containers and these things. It of supplies for Vector Control. disease at the primary healthcare the Director of Health Services, has to be a shared responsibility,” Malathion may arrive in Belize on level. during a web talk on national said Bautista. media has noted the increase in Dengue is caused by any one HM Holding Inc. # 173,536 dengue cases. of four related viruses transmitted (“the Company”) “We could have the same by mosquitoes. Dengue viruses amount of deaths this year if are spread to people through the Notice is hereby given that the Company named HM Holding we don’t do a collective effort bite of an infected Aedes species Inc. has been dissolved and struck off the International Business in trying to curtail the mosquito (Ae.aegypti or Ae.albopictus) Companies Register with effect from the 13th day of June, 2020. population. With the inevitable mosquito. Within the region rise in mosquito borne diseases last year, all four types had CILTrust International Limited and have the same symptoms as been detected, which can result Registered Agent COVID-19, which test would be in the likelihood of having a done first, Covid-19 or dengue severe episode of dengue, with malaria? For right now if you hemorrhagic manifestation. CUBIX INTERNATIONAL LIMITED # 53,161 don’t have respiratory symptoms In an update from the Pan (“the Company”) and we don’t seem to have American Health Organization’s community transmission I would Epidemiological Unit earlier Notice is hereby given that the Company named CUBIX say that dengue first before I this year, the four dengue virus INTERNATIONAL LIMITED has been dissolved and struck off even consider malaria and then serotypes (DENV1, DENV2, the International Business Companies Register with effect from the Covid-19,” he says. DENV3, and DENV4) continued 11th day of June, 2020. Dengue - colloquially called to be present in the Americas. breakbone fever for the severe With four of these strains of CILTrust International Limited joint pain it causes - is endemic dengue in circulation, people Registered Agent in much of Latin America, but may catch it more than once, COVID-19’s arrival has pulled with second cases more likely crucial attention away from it. to be severe. Kim Bautista, Chief of The most common symptom SAGICOR LIFE INC. Operations at the Vector Control of dengue is fever with any of the Unit, within the Ministry of following: nausea; vomiting; Health, who was on travel today, rash; aches and pains. Symptoms Natalia Mary Sedacey of #19 ¾ Miles Northern has told us that until we reach to of dengue typically last from two Highway, Belize City, Belize, has made sworn the point where the public and to seven days. Most people will deposition that Policy No J120002983 issued by other stakeholders get on board recover after about a week. in terms of cleaning up breeding Whilst according to the Sagicor Life Inc has been declared lost. sites that we will be able to really Centers for Disease Control see progress. (CDC), in COVID-19 a wide Dated June 11th, 2020 “…It doesn’t matter what variety of symptoms manifests quantities of funds the Ministry such as fever or chills, cough, puts in, if you don’t get the shortness of breath or difficulty By Order cooperation from the public, breathing, fatigue and muscle we won’t get over this outbreak or body aches. Symptoms of Althea Hazzard anytime soon,” he had reminded COVID-19 appear two to fourteen Corporate Secretary us. days after exposure to the virus. Page 14 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Page 15 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Cost for lobster CWU rejects 10% salary gone down by half cut for Port workers COVID-19 has been good to Evan “Mose” Hyde, says that the no one, and all businesses have had release was sent out to attempt to to make some cut or the other to persuade the public of something pay employees and stay afloat. At that is not true: trying to preserve the Port of Belize Limited (PBL), the jobs of its employees during these salary cuts have caused this time; that, he says, is false. strife with the Christian Workers Hyde and his union members have Union (CWU). To announce the alleged that instead of discussing salary cuts, the PBL issued a press the details with the members, release on Friday, June 12. In the they were simply informed of a release, they announced that after decision that was already made. suffering dramatic reductions The Union, then, was left to in their operations, and to avoid deliver the news to their members employee layoffs, fifteen and and that it has been the constant twenty percent salary reductions trend where the PBL makes no would now take place. Employees attempt to engage in negotiations. of the PBL who are part of the It is for this reason, then, that the CWU, however, would only suffer members of the CWU who are The lobster season in Belize spoilage. That is why for these 10% reductions. employed at the PBL do not accept opened on June 15 and generally, fishermen with large quantities, it These employees and union that is it fair for them to undergo a it would be a time for the annual is not possible to simply withhold members have been advised to 10% cut in their salaries without Lobster Fest in Caye Caulker, their product. One fisherman, vote down this proposal during a a disclosure of the company’s Placencia, and San Pedro and other in an attempt to be a voice of meeting. President of the CWU, financial standing. excitement. Fishermen, those reason, encouraged the men to who fish for lobster especially, possibly negotiate with buyers would be getting ready to make to at least pay for their costs of a great haul, selling their product operation. This included skiff and They forgot Brutus for about $31 to $34 for the machinery, lobster traps, food, On Sunday, June 7, Joseph pound. Unfortunately, however, and the like. Emmanuel Brown or Joseph they cannot look forward to that It will be a long road for the Panting better know as ‘Brutus’, amount this year. Because of low fishermen and buyers of their passed away. He was the Sergeant- product demand and difficulties product and with the lobster at-Arms for the People’s United with exporting the commodity season already a few days in, Party between 1998 to 2008. And brought on by COVID-19, the they must arrive at a solution while he held a position in the Belize Fishermen Cooperatives quickly. Beverly Wade, Director front and center of the PUP, he and other wholesale buyers are of Fisheries, Belize Fisheries died alone and uncared for. simply not offering this price for Department, commented on His brother, Glenford Davis lobsters. The price being offered the issues and the fishermen’s noted that Brutus was always at has gone down by more than concerns. Considering that we the frontline of the PUP; he did Joseph ‘Brutus’ Panting half, to around $15, or just over are in a depressed global market, what others would never ever do funeral. half, around $19, per pound. This the demand for lobsters and other and yet at the time of his greatest The cold and uncaring has caused a great disturbance luxury commodities are simply need, the PUP failed him. Davis manner in which Brutus was among fishermen who are saying not there. The product is mostly explained that he had tried to get treated when he most needed that they simply cannot afford to exported to the United States in touch with many within the them is most symbolic of who sell their product for that meager of America (USA), countries leadership of the PUP but none the members of the PUP really amount. in the European Union (EU), answered. While Brutus was are. They use the people and Fishermen from Sarteneja, and countries in Asia. Because ailing, he was abandoned. At the when they need them the most Belize City and Caye Caulker so many of those countries’ time of his funeral, there was not they just abandon them, forget met to discuss the issue. Their economies are depressed and in a single PUP representative at his about them. concern and disappointment recession due to COVID-19’s were visible on their faces and impact, they are not currently some of the fishermen vocalized importing lobster. It is not until Butane back-and-forth their issues with the changes in there are economic recoveries price, a very significant decrease in these markets that the market continues from last year. Considering their demand will increase and local The three former importers cheaper price. expenses incurred in catching the fishermen can expect higher of Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) Issuing a release of its lobster, $15 a pound is simply not prices for their product. Wade or butane as it is more commonly own was the new importer, the profitable nor is it operational. says that it is realistic and that known, have taken issue with National Gas Company of Belize, Collectively, the group the Belize Fisheries Department a price increase which was stated that “In June 2019, when attempted to arrive to a feasible is hopeful that that may be a announced by the Bureau of the importation was under the solution. One person suggested possibility before the end of this Standards. The new price per oligopoly of the three former holding on to their product if the lobster season, which ends in gallon across the country became importers, the Mont Belvieu price co-op would refuse to increase their February 2021. Likewise, when effective on Monday June, 15 and was lower than what it presently buying prices, but for fishermen the conch season reopens in will be $4.24 per gallon retail and is (US$0.45 vs. US$0.52) and with larger quantities, this is October of this year, there may be $2.64 wholesale. The new price the regulated retail price was simply not a viable possibility. recoveries in our local fisheries represents a $0.38 increase per significantly higher (BZ$5.18 vs. On average, a fisherman with a sector, which we must be grateful gallon. While the Bureau states BZ$ 4.24) than what it is now. larger operational capacity can is still operational. Importantly, that the new prices are indicative At that time the three former trap over 100 pounds of lobster Wade says that fishermen can of the world market prices, the importers dominated the complete on a daily basis. To yield the still expect a profit during this former LPG importers, Tomza, supply chain and thus received the greatest profit, they must sell current problem although it might Z-Gas and BWEL, are saying full benefit of this higher relative these lobsters for the maximum be as large a margin of profit as that it is just gouging, claiming pricing. They did not approach the price and cannot allow for any normal. that they can source butane at a BBS to lower prices then.” Page 16 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Yoga, Ayurveda and the Covid Pandemic By Manpreet Vohra, High Commissioner of India to Belize Six years ago, the United Nations General Assembly designated 21 June, the date of the summer solstice, as the International Day of Yoga. The Resolution was co-sponsored by 177 countries, which is the highest number of cosponsors ever for any UNGA resolution of this nature. It was adopted unanimously. This overwhelming global support was in recognition of the importance of Yoga for the health and well-being of people, our environment and indeed of Mother Earth. Yoga is an invaluable gift of ancient Indian tradition and philosophy. As many readers will know, there are numerous benefits from Yoga that can help us alleviate stress and fatigue, Yoga sessions help to promote the balanced development of our physical, mental and spiritual well-being lead a happier and healthier life, mind and soul. In other words, natural defences and prevent us in our current battle against this and discover the all-important Yoga helps us promote the from falling sick easily. pandemic. connection between our body, balanced development of all our All over the world, senior Of course, medicines are three dimensions– the physical, mainstream doctors agree that also required when things go the mental and the spiritual. inner peace is essential for a too far. Therefore, integration We gain control over our body, healthy immune system. It is of Yoga, Ayurveda and modern breath, emotions and mind to really the balance within us medicine – a logical marriage gradually awaken our knowledge which protects and heals us. If we between mankind’s ancient and The River Regatta of of unity (the meaning of Yoga is can preserve that, we are much contemporary knowledge - is 1929 was the fore- ‘to unify’). stronger and less susceptible to perhaps the best way forward runner of today's This is now accepted by diseases. Balance is what restores which would help the world to scientists and medical experts. and heals us daily in a way that Ruta Maya race shift from disease management Several studies on Yoga have no medicine does. to overall promotion of a healthy been conducted by prestigious These days, as the world tries lifestyle and holistic well-being. organisations such as the Harvard to improve its knowledge and find Many have realized this Medical School and the John a vaccine against Coronavirus and already and it is not surprising Hopkins University School of a treatment for Covid-19, what that Yoga as a complementary Medicine. we already know is that a healthy therapy now has millions of Researchers have found body with a good immune system practitioners in every part of the that Yoga lowers blood pressure, is itself a powerful shield which world, including in Belize. It reduces hypertension, activates can prevent us from catching requires no major investment of the parasympathetic nervous the disease, and even recover time or money and is easy to learn system, improves the lipid profile faster if we do indeed get it. for everyone – women and men, and reduces cardiovascular risk Yoga and Ayurveda can help us children and senior citizens, for factors. Yoga can also help people easily boost our immune systems those at home and for those busy to fight depression, and mental using simple home remedies and in the office. This 21st of June, let health is one of the greatest without having to see a doctor. us celebrate the 6th International challenges from the stress of There is thus an important Day of Yoga and let us try to River Regatta, 1929. Pitpan race in Belize City modern life today. role for Yoga and Ayurveda even adopt Yoga in our daily lives. Ay u r v e d a ( m e a n i n g A Pit Pan was the prin- ‘knowledge or science of life’) cipal vessel of the Cayo is the traditional Indian system of trade and was first used holistic healing which, like Yoga, to take cargo up the also stresses the importance of river as far as Cayo. balance between the body, mind This was before River and spirit. For medicine, it uses Boats were introduced. a mix of herbs, plants and natural Its crew consisted of a substances designed to cleanse dozen members, and restore imbalances in the compared to three crew body and thus eliminate the root members in today's causes rather than only treat the race. symptoms of a disease. Many Prizes and betting ran simple and readily available high, and the races had Ayurvedic remedies, often just the advantage of im- herbs and spices, can be taken proving crew's skill at daily as a tonic or supplement. bringing logs Together with the practice of down-river. Yoga, they strengthen the body’s Page 17 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Press Release - National Double or nothing? Institute of Culture and By Jamil Matar dissolution and shall then stand Sometimes I find that there dissolved. Bear with me, readers, History - Cost-Saving is a scarcity of political topics to please. It took me a while too. Let develop, which leaves me trolling us dissect that section together. Measures the net in all the news outlets, The last General Elections in The economic fallout caused reduce its liabilities and remain actual and virtual, on the website Belize took place on November by the COVID-19 Pandemic has functional. titled Belizenews.com. Nothing 4, 2015, and the first sitting of drastically reduced the revenue This has been possible interesting for a month now, the new Parliament happened streams of the National Institute due to the prudential financial except for the one-sided quarrel on November 13, 2015. Another of Culture and History (NICH) management introduced in 2018, between the PUP Party Leader section in the Constitution allows to almost none. The current subvention from the Government and one of his female standard a latitude of three months from primary source of Income is the of Belize, and support from our bearers. the latter date, which can take us subvention by the Government entire team to accomplish the I, thereafter, tried to follow up to February 13, 2021 for the of Belize. reduction of our expenditures. up with Petillo’s progress on his next General Elections. NICH instituted cost- However, in June 2020, our land grab enterprise, but I lost Now, municipal elections saving measures as early as Income was further reduced by interest when the true owners of should be held on the first March 2020. During that phase, 40%. As such, NICH had to take the property surfaced. After that Wednesday in March every NICH commenced reducing all its ultimate cost-saving measures issue lost public attention, I noted third year. The next municipal expenditures that may have been and that is the separation of a few that Toledo’s real-estate tycoon is scheduled for March 3, 2021, considered non-essential, and in staff members. and media hound, Maheia, had just about three weeks after the April and May NICH reduced The Board of Directors and to gloomily track back to P.G. in General Election is past due. Programmatic and Strategic Management of NICH have been search of a new crusade, which he Due to the Coronavirus Expenditures by approximately forced to make this decision of found in the form of a proposed pandemic, the present Prime 95% of previous periods. Even separating with approximately 6% gas station. I tell you, this is pure, Minister could not hand over the though we were at reduced of our entire staff, which includes unadulterated, PUP silliness! reins of Government as planned expenditures, we still managed members from all its Divisions/ Attempting to put the brake on in April of this year, since, in the to assist over (14) fourteen Departments. The Board of a job-creating investment in first instance, the U.D.P. did not artists (including bands) with an Directors and Management have one of the districts that needs it have a new Party Leader-elect. In honorarium for their performances agreed on a phased approach most! They even managed to get the second instance, the UDP still during that period. moving forward. The decisions a church involved in condemning does not have a Part Leader-elect. The entire NICH team we have taken thus far have been the gas station, of all things. You In the third instance, we do not supported additional cost- and continue to be challenging. should be focused in condemning know how this Corona issue will saving measures during May We aim to ensure the continued sin, sir, rather than giving quarter play out. and June, which enabled the protection and promotion of all to clowns. In my deferential opinion, Institution to survive further. forms of tangible and intangible What is noteworthy to the since the two elections are so We have collectively been able culture while retaining most of marginalized like myself is that close together, the option of a joint to reduce total expenditures by our staff to the ability that we can. none of these power-craving election should be deliberated. I approximately 48% for May 2020, We are truly fortunate that most pretenders who continuously think the government can legally in comparison to May 2019 and of our team are understanding decry our utility companies and join these together with an Act of May 2018. Even though NICH the current situation and have our Government for Covid-19 Parliament. This will reduce costs implemented stringent cost- supported the changes. These relief for the poor have never to all participating political parties saving measures, our expenses changes have affected all of offered a free month of cable or and to the people and Government have been more than our income us, but we remain optimistic internet to consumers. Never! of Belize. We need to clinch all for the respective period by and resilient. We thank all our These ultra- rich companies must the savings we can realize for at approximately 50%. NICH has stakeholders and staff for the enjoy playing the spinning top least two years, to help whichever been operating at a deficit for support thus far. game called “pirinola” and the Party forms the new Parliament. this period, but it has managed to End. words “toma todo” always comes up for them. Speaking of demagogues, it still has me dazzled how the Queen of this category of personalities could have swung an interview on LPG prices around to school fees on Tuesday night. Look, these LPG goons were mercilessly shorting consumers for decades. I, for one, was glad to see the last of them. Now, to the main topic of my discourse, which involves a little civics lesson. As it relates to a fixed date for Belize’s impending General Elections, let us reference our Constitution. Section 84.-(1) states that the Governor-General may at any time prorogue or dissolve the National Assembly: (2) Subject to the provisions of subsection (3) of this section, the National Assembly, unless sooner dissolved, shall continue for five years from the date of the first sitting of the House of Representatives after any Page 18 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020

YOUTH TALKS day- your pen, the computer, the phone in your hand- you take in Advice for the Non-Believer all the information from your By Thamar Jones majority of your beliefs came is positive. For example: I will environment via your 5 senses I am on a journey to radically from outside of you, whether earn a minimum of five thousand and process them in your brain change my life and I want to take it was through your parents, dollars monthly. Now that you and in there, your experience is you on that journey with me. I friends, or media. have stated a specific belief, what created. “Reality” lives alone in believe that with the right mindset “Don’t talk to strangers. is the next step? the brain and because reality lives and smart work, I can achieve They’re bad.” S t e p 2 : R e i n f o r c e alone in the brain, you can create whatever I desire and I believe “Money is the root of all that belief into your mind your own reality. So create the the same can happen for you. It evil.” CONTINUOUSLY reality of already having achieved all comes down to believing that “If you don’t do well in People did not come to your belief by visualizing it in you can achieve. school, you’ll fail in life.” believe in a political ideal or order to help hammer the belief But the phrase “You can do “You have to go to college religion overnight. It was due into your brain. Visualize every it if you just believe” has become to get a good job.” to a constant hammering of day. so watered down to the point that The majority of people have information over a long period Step 3: Continually people just roll their eyes when never really gone through the of time. Most people got it associate with others who share they hear it. They’ve tried it and exercise of creating their own when they were young from their your beliefs it just doesn’t work for them. beliefs, because we’ve been parents, friends, religious leaders, If you look back at how • “To succeed, we must first spoon fed them from day one. teachers, coaches, etc. They beliefs in religion and politics believe that we can.” – It’s time to take charge of our heard it at the dinner table, when were formed, you’ll find that Michael Korda; own beliefs. they went to religious service, on continuous association on a regular • “Your belief determines In order to learn how to TV, books, magazines, friends, basis with those who shared your action and your action believe, examine with me, the acquaintances, etc. the same religion and political determines your results process in which some of the However, this time, nobody affiliations helped enormously –Mark Victor Hansen; most powerful beliefs in human is there to hammer the beliefs in in solidifying their respective • “You have to believe in beings were created; specifically, you but you. YOU created your beliefs. yourself” – Sun Tzu; people’s beliefs in religion and OWN BELIEF and it is YOUR People did NOT habitually • “Believe that you will politics. Beliefs rooted in religion RESPONSIBILITY to reinforce associate with those who did succeed, and you will.” – and politics are EXTREMELY it. It doesn’t matter if your self- NOT share their beliefs. Muslims Dale Carnegie powerful. Families become talk is negating your belief. A did not habitually associate with These are just a few quotes divided over them. World wars constant hammering will always Jews. Atheists did not habitually on the subject. There are hundreds have been fought over them. drive the nail into the wall of your associate with Christians. Hardcore more. Notice how they are all Millions of lives are taken self-talk. conservatives and liberals did not saying essentially the same thing, because of them. People go so We live in a society where habitually associate with one that if you believe it, you can do far as to take their own lives distractions are rampant. another. Each group managed it. I wholeheartedly agree, but because of them. There is no Internet, text messaging, cable to attract one another and form I think they left out one very denying the power of people’s TV, cell phones; we live in an their own support group. People important part and that is: How beliefs in religion and politics and instantaneous society. We want who believe the same things will do you believe? the effect it has on their lives. If results NOW. We have lost the naturally gravitate toward one It’s not enough to just say we can analyze the procedure by virtue of patience. It’s so easy to another. Rich with rich, poor with “Oh, just believe and it will which these beliefs are formed get sucked in and forget about poor, middle class with middle happen.” I don’t like advice and apply that as a blueprint to the importance of continuously class. It is an indisputable fact. that’s just given to us without any create our own beliefs, we will reinforcing our new beliefs. It’s As your belief becomes proper steps on how to implement be able to achieve anything we also easy to become discouraged stronger, you’ll find that you will it. That’s what drove me to write want. when we don’t see the quick naturally gravitate toward those this article. It is a bit lengthy and And now, for the practical results we hope for. How can you who share the same beliefs as you. so I will break it down into 2 parts steps: how do these beliefs avoid doing that? If you find yourself doing that, it’s and will share Part 2 next week. form? (A) writing your belief down a very good sign you’re going in I think the reason that people Step 1: State your belief every day. This is one of the most the right direction. You will find have such a hard time believing is You must state a specific powerful things you can do in yourself looking to those who because we never really formed belief you want to have FIRST order to solidify a belief. Write share the same beliefs for advice our own beliefs. Think about it. in order to truly believe it. It your belief down on paper or print and/or support. For example, if Trace back all your beliefs on does not matter if you do not it out and paste it everywhere you you constantly hammer in the religion, politics, money, people, believe in it one hundred percent see; on your refrigerator, mirror, belief that you are a great public society, and the world in general. at first. Just take that first step and walls, doors; everywhere. Visual speaker, you will naturally start You’ll find that the root of the STATE it. Choose a belief that reminders will help to strengthen looking for speech classes, books your beliefs. and tapes. You’ll take a speech And (B) Visualizing your class and meet lots of other See News belief already achieved is another people there who share the same 207-5346 powerful exercise you can do. beliefs. When you habitually Guardian Your brain does not know the associate with those who share in the Newspaper difference between what it sees the same belief, you reinforce with your eyes and what you your belief in even more. Making? imagine in your mind. Read next week for the other Think about it; even physical, steps you must take to solidify Call the Guardian tangible things that you see every your new beliefs. Page 19 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Food vendor remanded for rape Psych evaluation pending Roger Rivera has been remanded to the Belize Central for Darien Banks Prison after appearing in the The results of a psychiatric Belize City Magistrate’s Court on evaluation are pending in the a charge of rape of a 15-year-old case of Darien Banks, who has child. The 43-year-old food vendor been remanded for violation of of Belize City was in the presence curfew. Police say that on April before Senior Magistrate Aretha 7, they found the once notorious Ford to be read the indictable gang figure on the streets and he charge of rape of a child before was unable to provide a reason his attorney Leo Bradley. Because for his movement. But besides of the nature of the charge, being that, his behavior during the that it is a matter to be dealt with ordeal made them question his at the Supreme Court, no plea mental capacity. As a result, the could be taken from him. The Roger Rivera evaluation was ordered by the Darien Banks Senior Magistrate also explained for August 7, 2020. The case of court and is pending. Stephanie Gillett where he to Rivera that bail could not be rape has also been adjourned for For the time being, he is was granted bail in the sum granted to him at the time and that this date. Preparations for a bail on bail after being on remand of $1,000 plus one surety of he would be remanded. application have been made by at the Belize Central Prison the same. He was able to meet Rivera has another pending Rivera’s attorney and is expected for more than two months. He bail and is due back in court on case of sexual assault before the to be heard as early as June 19, appeared before Magistrate August 7, 2020. court which has been adjourned 2020. Teen remanded for 10-year-old knocked down unlawful sexual intercourse and killed in Libertad A 10-year-old boy has An 18-year-old accused of died after he was knocked having sex with someone too down by a butane bowser young to consent is on remand at making gas deliveries in the Belize Central Prison for the the village of Libertad in crime. Rasheed Coffin, a sales Corozal. Reports are that clerk of a Belize City address, 10-year-old Steven Torres appeared before Magistrate was riding a bicycle in the Emmerson Banner where he was village sometime after 9:00 read a charge of unlawful sexual on Wednesday morning, intercourse. The incident is said heading from his mother’s Butane bowser to have taken place on May 20, house to his grandmothers’, when nearby San Joaquin Village. 2020 when he had sex with a 12- he was knocked down by the truck. The boy succumbed to his year-old child. The driver of the bowser has been injuries on the spot and police No plea could be taken due identified as 40-year-old Lucas Yuri were called out to the area where to the nature of the offense which Rasheed Coffin Arnaldo. The driver is a resident of Arnaldo was detained. is being dealt with on indictment. Oscar Selgado, has begun his Likewise, no bail could have been bail application and is expected offered and he was remanded until to be heard as early as Friday, August 20, 2020. His attorney, June 19, 2020. He cut off a man’s hand A resident from Esperanza upon making checks, found Village in the Cayo District, Leal and a woman, his wife’s Four incidents of robberies Shane Leal, has been charged friend, outside of his yard. Police are investigating four escape into an alley in the area. for maiming Isaias Estrada. The two became involved in separate cases of robberies in At around 1:45 p.m. on Estrada’s left hand at the wrist was a confrontation and a machete various municipalities in the Monday, June 15, Honghui Zhu, reportedly severed with a machete was taken out, the same machete country. On Sunday, June 14, two a 29-year-old shop attendant of during an ordeal with Leal over with which Estrada was chopped. incidents took place in the Belize Santa Elena Cayo, was robbed at the weekend in the village. Police Besides losing his left hand, District, in Hattieville Village gunpoint. He says that while in reports say that Estrada was Estrada was also chopped to the and in the Belize City area. At his store on George Price Avenue, attempting to aid his neighbor, head and remains hospitalized at around 1:00 p.m., police officers two persons entered his store and who had become involved in an the Western Regional Hospital visited Q&B Store located in demanded money. They were able altercation with Leal when the for his injuries. Taking all the the village where they met the to make off with an undisclosed incident happened. facts of the case into account, the store’s proprietor. He reported amount of money. Estrada was at home when police were able to charge Leal that while inside his shop, three Just an hour later, 23-year- someone called out for him and for maim. masked men, one armed with a old Jennifer Montejo became firearm, stormed in. They held victim to a robbery. The loans him at gunpoint and made off officer reported that she was at Isaias Azueta shot in Cayo with $1,000 in cash and his the Small Entrepreneur Business San Ignacio Police are to purchase cannabis. He says licensed 9mm pistol. Investment located on the George attempting to make an arrest in that he told the men that he did Later that night, at around Price Highway when a single a shooting incident which has not have any for sale and that 9:00 p.m., Thea Gillett was man entered the establishment, left Isaias Azueta hospitalized. is when they proceeded to fire walking along Marine Parade inquiring about a loan. That is They visited the San Ignacio at him, hitting his right thigh. in Belize City when she got in when he drew what appeared to Community Hospital on Sunday, Despite talking to police officers the vicinity of A+ Happy Hour be a firearm and proceeded to rob June 14 where they met the about the incident, Azueta has Bar. There, three masked men the business of two cellphones victim with a gunshot injury not been able to identify his descended on her and held her at and an undisclosed amount of to the right thigh. Azueta says attackers and the police have gunpoint before making off with monies. All of these incidents are that while at home, two persons not yet had suspects in this her cellphone. The trio made their being investigated. arrived on a motorcycle wanting incident. Page 20 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020

When to evacuate: Should I stay or go? to eat on your trip in carriers. • S p a r e c l o t h e s a n d W h a t ’ s a l l o w e d i n How to decide when to shoes shelters? • Hurricane Central: Public shelters are austere evacuate as tropical weather Check the tropics facilities that provide temporary • Soap, shampoo, and housing for evacuees. Most threatens our area. other toiletries shelters do not have beds or • I m p o r t a n t p a p e r s , cots, so you will probably be By KHOU.com Staff People traveling with including deeds and sleeping on the floor. So pack as When to evacuate young children, elderly family wills if you were going camping. Listen regularly to news members, or people with • C o n t a c t n u m b e r s You should bring: stations and follow their social special needs. If you wait to o f f r i e n d s , f a m i l y • Pets, carriers and pet media pages for updates when leave until a general evacuation members, physicians food there’s a threat of tropical is recommend, traffic will be and your insurance • Sleeping pads or air storms or hurricanes forming heavier and the weather may be agent mattresses in the Gulf. Pay close attention worse, lengthening the time you • M o n e y , c h e c k s , • Blankets or a sleeping when such storms threaten will have to spend in your car travelers checks or bag for each person your local area. If it appears getting to your destination. credit cards • Robe & shower shoes that a storm may affect the Where should I go if I • An inventory of your • Books, cards, games local area, local officials evacuate? personal belongings and quiet toys for may order or recommend that P r e f e r a b l y m a k e and any photographs children residents evacuate and also arrangements with your family or videotapes of your What’s not allowed? provide instructions about members, friends, or neighbors possessions Alcoholic beverages, what people in those areas to assist you before you need to Red Cross shelters will weapons, and drugs are not should do. Be ready to follow evacuate. Most people will be allow pets as long as they are allowed in public shelters. the instructions given by local glad to help if they know you officials. Because it takes time need assistance. to evacuate heavily populated If you do not have friends areas, evacuations may be or family to assist you, listen recommended well before the to your radio or TV for storm makes landfall. information on provisions Who should evacuate? being made to assist those who If you live along the coast, need assistance in evacuating. heed evacuation warnings and If necessary, contact your local don't wait until it's emergency management office too late. to let them know who you are, People who live in low- where you live and what kind lying or flood-prone areas of help you need. Do not wait or on barrier islands should until the last minute to call for evacuate when a tropical assistance or local authorities storm or hurricane approaches. may be unable to assist you. Tropical storms and hurricanes If you are experiencing a often produce heightened seas life-threatening situation, call and tides that may affect these 911. areas long before the storm What should I take with makes landfall. me? People who live mobile • L i c e n s e o r homes near the coast, or are Identification card with concerned about the structural photo stability of their home, should • Your medications, extra plan to evacuate any time a eye glasses, hearing storm threatens. Even less aids and other essential powerful hurricanes can items produce high winds capable of • A flashlights with damaging or destroying mobile batteries, if you don homes. t already have one in People towing boats or your car trailers or driving recreational • A battery-operated vehicles or other high-profile portable radio, if you vehicles should leave early. don t have a car radio Some roads and bridges may be • W a t e r o r o t h e r closed to high-profile vehicles beverages to drink on before they are closed to cars your trip due to high winds. • Non-perishable foods Page 21 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 love connection more than anything you together in the first place, Sag? And else. If you’re single, then you have an more importantly, can you reconcile the opportunity to review why you might differences? Your Horoscope be so emotionally closed from receiving love from another person. Capricorn Dec 22 – Jan 19 Your relationship sector is lit Aries Mar 21 – Apr 19 and how it wasn’t reciprocated. It needs Libra Sep 23 – Oct 22 up this week, Capricorn, so you can If you’re in a relationship, it’s to stop. Saturn continues to move through certainly expect plenty of action in the possible that you and your sweetheart your romance sector until July 1, giving love life department. Unfortunately, it’s are about to rethink how you cohabitate Cancer Jun 21 – Jul 22 you a taste of what is really limiting a mixed bag and you’ll need to navigate together. Family values and domestic Mercury turns retrograde in your you in matters of the heart. You may through some rocky road in order to needs are up for review -- you might sign on Thursday, making it impossible feel lonely or more isolated than usual, reach the rainbow at the end. One of even be going back and forth discussing for you to think straight. You’re likely especially if you’re single. It’s possible you may have a different perspective whether or not to have a child together. If to be a ball of reactive thoughts and that you wonder if you’ll ever have the that leads to a happier outcome between you already have children, it’s possible emotions and no matter how you try to love you crave. However, with Saturn the both of you. A Solar Eclipse on that you’ll spend time discussing the communicate to others, it will come out in this part of your chart, you’ve got Sunday lands in your partnership sector. radically different ways you each parent wrong. This isn’t the time to initiate an a major karmic lesson in love ahead. If single, you have a chance at new love and how to reconcile this so that you’re important conversation with your partner Define what you know you deserve in even though you’re confused about a united front. or to try and make a decision together. love and take a responsible approach to it. Dating someone? Things could get Fortunately, you will get a fresh start in getting it. serious. Taurus Apr 20 – May 20 the relationship department, regardless Talking about your feelings and of what your current partnership status Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 21 Aquarius Jan 20 – Feb 18 deepest needs becomes paramount to is. Mars spends his final week in your Is your love life a hopeless ball you this week. You may know exactly true love sector, giving you plenty of of confusion? Take heart, Aquarius, how you feel and what you need from Leo Jul 23 – Aug 22 steam in the love department. If you’re because things are about to change. For your partner, but you just can’t manage There’s more you’re NOT saying single, your craving for love is ramped now, sit tight and ask the universe what to verbalize it in a way that’s understood to someone you love than what you are up. Because of this, you might take a this time has been trying to teach you by your mate. You might even find saying. That’s a problem, Leo -- and subtle, yet direct approach to getting about love and relationships. There is yourself being more reactive than you know it. Yet, you can’t seem to get your heart’s desire. How will you a valuable lesson somewhere. If you’re logical, which is only likely to make the words out, no matter how much accomplish this? A solid wink and smile in a relationship, then a Solar Eclipse things more difficult in your love life. you realize you need to. As your words at someone you are crushing over before on Sunday could bring a new domestic Are you overreacting to a situation or to continue to get in the way of your love you turn your head is one example. Or, routine for you and your mate. It doesn’t something your lover says? Take a step life, consider what’s really happening. you might flirt with someone through sound very romantic but this change is back, Taurus, and see if you can uncover This silence is all about your insecurity social media. sorely needed. the genuine answer. of saying something that leads to you not receiving the emotional fulfillment Sagittarius Nov 22 – Dec 21 Pisces Feb 19 – Mar 20 Gemini May 21 – Jun 20 you truly crave. If you’re in a relationship, then Your love life might be a hot mess You might be extra touchy this you might feel as if you and your partner -- or about to get really hot! Your ex might week about not feeling valued and Virgo Aug 23 – Sep 22 can’t agree on anything regarding initiate an innocent conversation, only appreciated by others, especially your If you think you can talk to your finances nor your intimate life. One to then drop a bombshell on you: he or partner. You may also feel like you’re the friends this week about any lack of of you might need to hear words of she wants another chance. You will be one always giving and never being taken emotional fulfillment in your love life, affection in order to become physical, emotionally torn and certainly mentally care of. If you harbor these feelings of think again. Their opinions and voices while the other doesn’t. The different confused. Don’t feel like you need to resentment, it’s a certain indicator that will only serve to confuse you even needs and emotional and money styles make any decision yet, Pisces. The good it must be addressed now. You’re likely more. In fact, you might unwittingly you have are becoming clearer now and news is that a gorgeous Solar Eclipse to sit and stew mentally, thinking about reveal information about your partner because of this, you’re both now feeling infuses your romance sector on Sunday. everything you have done in the past that is private and ends up hurting your more confused than ever. What brought New love is coming -- even if it’s old. Page 22 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Bigger in Texas A blind man visits Texas. When he gets to his hotel room, he feels the bed. “Wow, this bed is big!”

“Everything is big in Texas,” says the bellhop.

The man heads downstairs to the bar, settles into a huge barstool and orders a beer. A mug is placed between his hands. “Wow these drinks are big!”

The bartender replies, “Everything is big in Texas.”

After downing a few, the blind man asks where the bathroom is. “Second Playing with fate door to the right,” says the bartender. In surgery for a heart attack, a middle-aged woman has a vision of God The blind man heads for the bathroom but accidentally enters the third by her bedside. “Will I die?” she asks. door, which leads to the swimming pool, and he falls in. Popping his head up from under the water and flailing his arms, he shouts, “Don’t God says, “No. You have 30 more years to live.” flush, don’t flush!” ------With 30 years to look forward to, she decides to make the best of it. So since she’s in the hospital, she gets breast implants, liposuction, a tummy tuck, hair transplants, and collagen injections in her lips. She Chicken’s for dinner looks great! The day she’s discharged, she exits the hospital with a “Doctor, I think my wife is swagger, crosses the street, and is immediately hit by an ambulance getting hard of hearing.” No response. and killed. Up in heaven, she sees God. “You said I had 30 more years to live,” she complains. “There’s a simple test you can run So he moves to the other end of to see how bad the problem is: the room and repeats, “Honey, “That’s true,” says God. Start out 40 feet away from her, what’s for supper?” Still no and in a normal conversational response. Next, he moves into “So what happened?” she asks. speaking tone say something and the dining room. “Honey, what’s see if she hears you. If not, go to for supper?” No response, so he God shrugs. “I didn’t recognize you.” 30 feet, then 20 feet, and so on walks up to the kitchen door. until you get a response.” “Honey, what’s for supper?” ------Again, there is no response, so That evening, the man’s wife is he walks right up behind her. Where’s the bathroom again? in the kitchen cooking dinner, “Honey, what’s for supper?” The doctor says, “Larry, everything looks great. How are you doing and he’s in the living room. In mentally and emotionally? Are you at peace with God?” a normal tone, he asks, “Honey, “For the fifth time, Harry, what’s for supper?” CHICKEN!” Larry replies, “God and I are tight. He knows I have poor eyesight, so ------He’s fixed it so when I get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom, poof! The light goes on. When I’m done, poof! The light goes off.” Misfortunate pirate Two pirates, Morty and Sol, me hand off. So now I got me a “Wow, that’s incredible,” the doctor says. meet in a bar. Sol has a patch hook.” over one eye, a hook for a hand, A little later in the day, the doctor calls Larry’s wife. and a wooden peg leg. “Ye gads, “OK, but what’s with the eye matey,” says Morty. “What patch?” “Bonnie,” he says, “Larry is doing fine! But I had to call you because happened to ya?” I’m in awe of his relationship with God. Is it true that he gets up during “I was standin’ on a dock, and the the night, and poof, the light goes on in the bathroom, and when he’s Sol says, “Me pirate ship was biggest seagull I ever saw poops done, poof, the light goes off?” attacked, and a lucky shot lopped right in me eye.” off me leg. So now I got me a “Oh, no,” exclaims Bonnie. “He’s peeing in the refrigerator again!” wooden peg.” “But ya don’t go blind from no ------seagull poop.” “And yer hand?” asks Morty. “True,” says Sol. “But it was me Hunting gone wrong “When me ship sank, a shark bit first day with the hook.” Two hunters are out in the woods when one of them collapses. He’s ------not breathing and his eyes are glazed. The other guy whips out his cell phone and calls 911. The lie detector “I think my friend is dead!” he yells. “What can I do?” Father buys a lie detector that movies.” makes a loud beep whenever Detector: “Beep.” The operator says, “Calm down. First, let’s make sure he’s dead.” somebody tells a lie. Son: “Alright, I went for a beer The son comes home in the with my friends.” There’s a silence, then a shot. Back on the phone, the guy says, “OK, afternoon. Father asks him, Father: “What?! At your age, I now what?” “So, you were at school today, wouldn’t touch alcohol!“ right?” Detector: “Beep.” ------Son: “Yeah.” Mother laughs: “Ha! He really is Detector: “Beep.“ your son!” Facing the consequences Son: “OK, OK, I was at the Detector: “Beep.” A man, shocked by how his bra?” The friend replies, “Ever buddy is dressed, asks him, “How since my wife found it in the What’s the difference between the bird flu and the swine flu? One long have you been wearing that glove compartment.” requires tweetment and the other an oinkment. Page 23 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Page 24 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Page 25 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Page 26 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Page 27 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020 Page 28 The GuardIan Sunday, June 21, 2020