Friday, July 6, 2007 The INdependent Reformer Page 1

The dependent IN Reformer ’s Rebel Paper Vol. 2 No. 26 Friday, July 6, 2007 $1.00 BlueBlueBlue notesnotesnotes forforfor blueblueblue votesvotesvotes

This past Sunday’s turnout in Belize’s parties. Lobsterfest goers are the prime northern-most border town proved target audience for the Movement. Plus, once more that political cash handouts people have been frightened into think- to starving, marginalized Belizeans can ing that their kidnapping could be next, still buy the PUP a lot of love. At least if they get too close to Mr. Aikman. Just for the day. ask the womenfolk with families. Despite all the scandal of the past The PUP didn’t promise the people months, desperate Belizeans turned out of Belize anything new that they haven’t in droves to collect their “per diems”, promised before; and, really it was just food coupons, and refreshments from a political orgy of confidence building PUP street captains organizing the flo- measure for their insiders. tillas to Corozal. It was no lobsterfest, but busloads of people cashed in on the free-food, free liquor, and free t-shirts, not to mention free dollars. But is this lease-a-crowd just taking the money and planning to vote their mind during the General Elec- tion like they did during the municipal and village council elections? That has to have the PUP wondering. Do they really love us, or just the money? This thought has got to have them feeling blue because they really don’t know. Do they? Almost as blue as having Said Musa Ex-Deputy Prime Minister John Briceno is still Deputy PUP Party Leader! Derek Aikman at the launch of his lead their party yet again, with no real Covenant Movement. challengers being tolerated by the man territories they had before and were ef- who would be king for a third term. Not fectively neutralized from exercising any willing to play hypocrite, the one man bid for real leadership and all rebellious who could have been a viable contender, area reps were “Ralphed” in once more. BSIBSI ashesashes ffllyy and perhaps one of the few PUP’s left Yes, despite the bankruptcy of the who could inspire confidence in entire country, the PUP is somehow in Belizeans both at home and abroad, the money once more and ready to buy Mark Espat, steered clear of the whole votes from anybody who’s got one for convention charade. sale. Party before country — blue notes Why bother going, since everything for blue votes…long live Chavez and at this leadership convention had already his plata. been hashed out days before and vot- Covenant Movement, on the other ing by delegates as much a rubber stamp hand were a bit naïve, we think, to be affair as a meeting on a “money forced to compete with both a festive matter bill”. Nope, absolutely no sur- lobsterfest and a big money national prises. Briceno & his crew retain the convention by one of the mass political

Orange Walk residents subjected to flying ash from the smokestacks at BSI’s Tower Hill Sugar Factory (see Tidbits page 9). PNP Leader Will Mehia came all the way WTP’s Hipolito Bautista in solidarity from PG for Covenent launch. with Covenant movement members. Read Independent Online at http://belizenews.com/independent or http://tinyurl.com/245dpp Friday, July 6, 2007 The INdependent Reformer Page 2

General Manager LettersLetters toto thethe EditorEditor Freedom of major approvals for construction of the I asked for any and all documents BZ$105 million Vaca Hydroelectric upon which the permission and license Trevor Vernon Information? PUC Facility and has commenced activities were granted, if they were granted. Fails to Answer at the site.” Those are fairly straightforward ques- I asked the PUC if BECOL applied tions and requests that should not take Questions on the Vaca for the required permission to construct any time to answer. It is a simple ques- Dam and operate the Vaca Hydroelectric tion - was the law followed and, if so, Facility? I asked if a license and per- what was the decision based on? Over two weeks ago, I wrote Mr. mission had been granted by the Public Candy Gonzalez Editor Roberto Young, Chairman of the Pub- Utilities Commission? Cayo lic Utilities Commission concerning ap- proval for construction of the Vaca Hy- SPECIAL OFFER Karla Heusner Vernon droelectric Facility. Under the law, Belize Electric Company Limited for (BECOL) must apply to the Public Utilities Commission, PUC, for a license Independent Weekly and permission to build and operate the readers Vaca Dam. Design/Layout/ No such application, permission or An autographed copy license appears anywhere on the PUC of Karla Heusner’s Environmental editor or the BEL websites and we have not seen any notice in the paper as to an collection of columns application being filed, or a license be- Only $25 BZ William G . Ysaguirrre ing granted. After seeing the statement released by (including shipping) Belize Electric Company Ltd. Call, email or write to (BECOL), dated May 30, 2007, we requested information from the PUC. Independent Weekly BECOL wrote: “Belize Electric Com- now! pany Limited (BECOL) has received all Published by: Comments? Suggestions? Independent Publishing or want to share your thoughts & photos? Email us at Company (of Belize) Ltd. [email protected] P.O. Box 2666 For an online version of the INdependent , Belize Reformer visit us at www.belizenorth.com OR www.belizenews.com Telephones:

(501) 225-3520

(501)600-1627 INdependentThe Reformer (501)664-1627 [email protected] P.O. Box 2666 Belize City, Belize (501)671-1964 YES! Send me my FREE T-shirt with my year’s subscription of the INdependent Reformer“Quote for BZ$60.00 inof Belize the (US$60.00 Week” international)

Name (please print) Printed by: Address Apt.

National Printers City State Zip New Road Email Address Belize City, Belize

Payment Included Bill me later Prices for subscription and postage may vary for subscription outside Belize. Friday, July 6, 2007 The INdependent Reformer Page 3 Friday, July 6, 2007 The INdependent Reformer Page 4 ComingComingComing HomeHomeHome keep. You do have air conditioning, don’t being chopped off their futures as home only to find themselves regarded you?” citizens of the new global economy, as some sort of bank or lending agency. Part of me is sure they just don’t know many older Belizeans abroad feel For loans never to be repaid, in cash or how good they have it “up there” or how nostalgic about the land they left and goods. Their possessions just seem to walk away, the victim of the “E’neva Certainly they are not always wel- mid di use it anyway,” syndrome. Ra- tionalized by the “E could get wa next comed back with open arms; some- one when e go back up. Den tings cheap da States.” times it is more like open palms. I have met a few Belizeans who came By: Karla Heusner Vernon home but have already gone back again Every once in a while I get a query bad we have it “down here.” If they did, grow eager to spend their retirement disillusioned. Beaten down by a rougher from a Belizean abroad who is thinking they wouldn’t want to come back. time helping “develop the country.” lifestyle than they remembered or could of retiring “back home.” Most of the Or maybe they still would. Believing as Of course, there is no reason they get adjusted to once more— the heat, the time I am tempted to just shout: “NO! so many of us do that the grass is always should not. Should not come home, mosquitoes, the poor roads and capricious don’t do it! Stay where you are, you more verdant and luscious somewhere should not help improve or change service, the high cost of living, the threat are safer there! Save yourself while there else, that surely there is better grazing in things, or—most of all, believe they of bodily harm or constant break-ins. is still time!” the very place which we happen not to be can and should do these things. Belize Sometimes they just grow weary of But instead I usually say, very ratio- at the moment. If only we relocated, life on a whole does need them, being regarded as some sort of alien in nally, “Well, life here has its challenges would be better for us... Belizeans on an individual level do their own homeland. A person betwixt and I would recommend you not sell Besides, when a person is intent on do- need them. and between, not an American, but your house in the US for a few months, ing something, no amount of counsel will To me, it’s more a question of somehow no longer perceived as 100% see if you like it here again….’ counsel them out of it; they will hear what whether or not Belize and Belizeans Belizean, just because they have lived As I speak, I secretly imagine myself they want to hear and reject the rest as appreciate them when they do come. and loved and worked somewhere else. at their knees begging, “Please let me unnecessary negativity. Certainly they are not always wel- Somewhere else so many Belizeans come live with you, I won’t take up a So just as many young students and comed back with open arms; some- wish they were living and loving and lot of room and I can write up stuff you workers fervently believe every additional times it is more like open palms. I working. want written up or something. Earn my day they remain in Belize is another day have spoken to some who came (Please Turn To Page 5) Friday, July 6, 2007 The INdependent Reformer Page 5 ComingComing HomeHome LivingLiving withwith (Continued From Page 4) how many long hours of hard work is Is it a case of envy? Certainly to some required and what kind of sacrifices degree. Is there some anger too? Yes, have to be made to maintain a certain ClimateClimate ChangeChange I believe so. Anger at being aban- lifestyle, and send home those remit- By William Ysaguierre doned, left to cope on our own with- tances every month. The warming of Earth’s surface and out their brainpower, their muscle. Yes, there is a two way flow hap- oceans over the past century is very well But we can hope this relationship, pening now, people going away and documented, and may have a profound not unlike the love-hate relationships people coming home. There is no way impact on Belizean’s lifestyle and eco- many Caribbean nationals face in the to stop the ones who want to leave, nomic prosperity over the next century. wider diaspora, is improving. We who believe it is for the better, and no Meteorologist Ramon Frutos of the hope that the gap between how our way to stop those who want to come National Meteorology Department de- Belizeans abroad believe we are liv- home, who believe this too is for the tailed some of the impacts during the ing and how we are actually living is better. launch of a Climate Change Public narrowing. The internet and access to Who am I to discourage either set? Awareness Campaign at the Coastal news and radio talk shows is certainly Who am I, who has also glimpsed Zone Management Authority & Insti- helping to give them a more accurate greener grass on both sides? tute on Tuesday, June 26. picture of our lives. The blind spot Come home if you will, go away if World Wildlife Fund Central Ameri- perhaps is greater on this end, as so you must. Just don’t forget where you can representative Sylvia Marin did a Meteorologist Ramon Frutos expalins many Belizeans think the lives of those learned Creole and who makes the presentation on the WWF Climate Climate Change impacts. in the US is just filled with shopping best rice and beans. Just don’t forget Change witness Project, while Dr change. and partying; failing to understand just your family and friends, whereever they Kenrick Leslie, executive director fo the Belizeans may try to adapt, but facts are may happen to be at the moment... CARICOM climate change center ex- stubborn things. Reef scientists are already amined the issues and how they will af- observing coral bleaching on some of our fect the Caribbean. reefs. Warmer temperatures will produce Meso-American Reef scientist Nadia more coral bleaching, with its resultant Bood discussed how Belizeans might impact on the tourism industry. With tour- help mitigate the effects of climate ism as a major source of employment for young Belizeans, it will also have an eco- Belize City, June 21, 2007. nomic impact. Sea level rise will result in the inundation of low lying areas and an increase in our wetlands. The reduction CMA CGM now launches its weekly Maya Express Ser- of land mass and the impact of climate vice to Belize City. change on farming and fisheries will also have economic impact. Will we build dikes Effective June 28th 2007, CMA CGM will upgrade its Maya and sea walls to protect our coastal com- munities, or will sea level rise force us to Express Service, linking Miami and Belize City as a newly move inland? added Port of Call. Where Belizeans may have the op- tion of moving inland, in most of the We are pleased to offer our customers this new trade lane smaller Caribbean islands the situation is more grim. Rising sea levels will which will incorporate a weekly fixed-day service with CCCCC executive director Dr Kenrick threaten coastal roads and villages, di- sailings every Thursday from Miami and arriving in Belize Leslie, decribes climate change impact on minished rainfall will threaten the islands’ City Monday evenings. the Caribbean. (Please Turn To Page 13)

The first sailing from Miami will be the CMA CGM Bar- bados departing Miami on Thursday, June 28, 2007 with FForor SaleSale arrival in Belize City on Monday, July 02, 2007.

For more information, please contact our Agent in Belize City (shown below) who will be able to answer all your inquiry:

MARINE & SERVICES, LTD. No.95 Albert Street P.O. Box 611 Belize City, Belize Tel: 501-227-2112 or 3448 Fax: 501-227-5404 Two Yamaha propellers: Email: [email protected] 1) for 115 Enduro (Aluminum) 2) for 200- Stainless Steel- 19 pitch ADVANCED SHIPPING Asking Bz$600 O.B.O. Contact Independent Weekly Friday, July 6, 2007 The INdependent Reformer Page 6 St.St. MarMartin’tin’ss CrCreditedit UnionUnion doingdoing wwellell inin CaCayyoo an automatic feature, no extra payments credit card borrowing. But since it is come from salary, or business estimate on your part. My credit union in Miami compound interest and they have a flurry on a weekly basis for payback. This will has our account savings insured for a of extra fees, service charges and any- give you the amount you can RISK to $100,000 US through something else thing else they can think of to trick you borrow in a loan. No loan should be called the FDIC. At St. Martin Credit out of your money, such as changing the so big it can’t be paid off in less than six Union, your savings are for small people end of month free usage date, to the 8th, months. There are always new reasons and only go up to insurance of $8,000. instead of the 31st or some such trick- why a family needs more money and That’s because this credit union serves ery, your credit card loan cost usually quickly. Keep your loans small and small farmers, salaried workers and ag- runs between 34% and 49%. ATM manageable, make them for short term riculture and small business people. No- cards which are touted for convenience goals, rather than gamble too big and body can really live independently and have usage fees. The trick with bank borrow too much and you will get ahead By: Ray Auxillou raise a family comfortably on the low ATM cards, is if the amount the ATM in smaller safer increments. St. Martin’s Credit Union of the twin salaries in Belize, so some business ven- card is good for is very low, then the The success of St. Martin’s Credit towns of Cayo West is doing well. The ture as a sideline, or even several busi- fee you pay to use it escalates into as- Union is based on an expanding local big news is by the end of this year their ness ventures are necessary for young tronomical amounts calculated on an economy based on a population growth capital is expected to break the $10 families to get ahead and pay their bills. annual basis. If you have a $100 limit of 6% a year. Business in Cayo West million dollar ceiling. Borrowing for such small business ven- card and pay a $2 usage fee, you are is good, though business competition Some people scoff at credit unions, tures from your local Credit Union is paying 2% for a short transaction of a keeps pace with demand and cycles of as they are started by small people with the best borrowing deal around. week or two, which on an annual basis supply and demand tend to get whittled little money to pool their fiscal resources If you borrow money, up to $40,000 becomes de facto 24% interest over down to a smaller market share in quick to lend to each other. Unlike Commer- from St. Martins for a mortgage for in- twelve months. If you have a $500 order through more competitors. Tour- cial Banks, Credit Unions do not re- stance, if you die, the land and house ATM card limit, then the same $2 fee ism is recovering after a drought of five quire real estate assets, or other secu- would be paid off by this insurance up to use it, would cost you, if you used years or so and seems to be expanding rity for loans. All Credit Union loans to $40,000. The children or other heirs the whole limit at one time inside of a as new hotels and guest houses con- are called “character loans” and ap- would receive clear title after probate month, the cost would be much less. tinue to sprout up all over the place, con- proved by your peers in a Loans Com- of your estate. Some DFC housing The difference is less on a $500 bigger struction in general continues to main- mittee. By character, they mean, can scheme house and lots also have this limit of an ATM card and the interest is tain a steady growth pace. There are you prove to them, that you can SAVE proviso, and heirs of the deceased, got lower. ATM cards are about paying to days you cannot get building materials, a little bit each week, or month? If you their LEASE certificates free and clear use your own money for the conve- the demand is so high. The national can develop a saving habit, then you will from DFC. Though will still have to pay nience of 24 hours service from a ma- export brain drain is over. College also be able to pay a loan. Lands Department transfer costs. chine and sometimes is cheaper than graduates have job offers to choose There are useful things about Credit After 70 years, all St. Martin’s Credit buying gasoline to go to the bank on a from and educational policy changes are Unions. Those that have a checking Union customer insurances are canceled weekday. paying off. Belizeans are returning account facility do not charge for a however. The Credit Union system does The best bet is to get money through home to capitalize on the boom. checking account. Commercial banks not insure old people’s money. But if a Credit Union, and out in Western A total of 2,730 loans were approved charge to have a checking account and you died by accident, the beneficiary of Cayo, St. Martin’s Credit Union is the during the past year for almost $5 mil- also load it with other miscellaneous your account would get double your big name in the twin towns. If you bor- lion dollars. The biggest loan portfolio service fees, which increase their income savings deposited from the umbrella row big and then can budget carefully were “construction” loans, at over a at your expense. Some Credit Unions CUNA MUTUAL insurance scheme. for your living costs, it is the cheapest million dollars. only have savings accounts. All banks If you are old and have saved, or sold borrowing money around. You borrow There are babies everywhere as the and credit unions make their money by your house, business, or farm and plan one time, then budget yourself on how population expands. Vehicle repair lending the pooled money resources. to live off your interest on your savings, you spend it. Learning to budget your loans because of bad roads came to Credit unions have a fixed loan interest then the Credit Union is not for you. living costs weekly is the name of the $738,800 dollars. If the government rate based on 12% simple interest. Dividends for St. Martin’s Credit Union game to get ahead and being able to ever asphalt paves the streets and Commercial banks charge more loan for instance for 2006 were only 5%. SAVE. roads, this loan portfolio will shrink. interest than credit unions and they make Whereas most commercial banks are Commercial Banks have a deal where This is unlikely to happen though, as the it a compound interest, which is far more paying over 8% interest on your larger you get approved for a big loan for future revenues for the next 30 years or expensive, as you end up paying inter- savings capital. 3% or more is a lot of some project, and they will allow you so is being spent right now by the PUP est on your interest. They also can cal- difference in a commercial bank Cer- drawing privileges. You only pay inter- on some sort of leveraged borrowing culate daily, which gets more expensive tificate of Deposit. est on what you use, when you use it. spending policy. Membership of St. than a simple interest Credit Union loan. What the Credit Union excels at is The alternative is a Credit Union loan Martin’s Credit Union is now 4,562 St. Martin’s Credit Union is a mem- lending money for anything you want, and you budget carefully. persons. Income before expenses for ber of CUNA, the international Credit without security, just your reputation SAVING and BUDGETING your the past year was $877,299 dollars. Union body. Through CUNA comes and character and preferably some dem- expenses are the name of the game if Expenses run about 2/3 of that. Sala- many other benefits, like specialized onstration that you are honest and al- you want to wisely use Credit Union ries have been raised for staff and perks money insurance schemes. St. Martin’s ways eventually pay off your loans. Your loans to put your family ahead more approved. St. Martin’s Credit Union Credit Union in the twin towns of Cayo Credit Union loan is usually cheaper quickly. Never borrow more than you in the twin towns is now a dynamic in- West for instance has your Loans in- than a commercial bank loan as well. can pay. stitution contributing to the growth of life sured up to $40,000. If you die, your In comparison, a credit card will Here it pays to calculate what you in Cayo West. loan is paid off by life insurance. This is charge you about 18% interest on your can pay, by budgeting 20% of your in- Friday, July 6, 2007 The INdependent Reformer Page 7 SenateSenate ElectionsElections now,now, beforebefore GeneralGeneral ElectionsElections By: Lucilo Teck, islature that will oppose autocracy and new Special investigative Committee empowered to: WTP Deputy National corruption on any form. It will truly rep- shall be constitutionally empowered to I. To act as a check on the Executive Coordinator resent all the people. draw charges of impeachment against Powers by its very nature as a legisla- The central role of the Elected Sen- As a new elected legislative body of any official or former official of the Na- tive body from which all power ema- ate must be well defined through de- the Legislature the new Senate will be tional Government. The Senate Tribu- nates and from which the Executive bates and finally resolved through a empowered to propose and approve nal will sit as a court to hear the charges. derives its authority. The Legislative National Referendum within the follow- laws which shall be necessary and Once an official is found guilty, the arm of Government is the check on ex- ing sixty days. We call on the Prime proper for the good of the people. The Tribunal will have the power to order ecutive Power. Minister, Right Honorable Said Musa, elected Senate shall have the sole the immediate removal from office of the II. The Senate must be Credible. To to immediately appoint SPEAR and power of impeachment and power to individual who shall be banned from be credible, power must be given to the BELPAK as the Official Organizers to try all impeachments through its mixed holding public office for life and lose all Senate by the people. We therefore develop a joint program with the media new committee in place the Grand Spe- benefits accrued. If evidence is uncov- recommend an elected Senate which is houses of the Press Radio and Televi- cial Senate Investigative Committee. ered that a criminal offence has been nothing new and that for the last two sion to commence public debates on the In our proposal for an elected Sen- committed, the individual will be handed decades has been firmly established in issue of an Elected Senate now. ate its component shall ensure the over to the Supreme Court for trial, Australia and in New Zealand our sis- This is to inform the Belizean people people’s participation and their free will conviction and sentence. ter Commonwealth Countries, under the on this important issue of the Elected always prevail to ensure transparency, Westminster System. Senate bringing together representatives better accountability and good gover- The elected Senate will ensure the III. The Senate must be truly repre- of the political sector, social movements, nance. The elected Senate shall pro- proper oversight of the executive branch sentative of the people. Because of the civil society and other national actors vide equal opportunities to all political of Government by consistently sum- special powers to be assigned to the to inform Belizeans on the positions parties and independents to contend for moning the presence of any government Senate, we feel it is important to have adopted by each party and other orga- seats in the Senate. It will finalize the minister C.E.O.S and Heads of depart- the Senate truly representative of all our nizations on the issue of the Elected issue of who decides in our democracy ments to provide financial reports on people. Senate; thus contributing to a better in- and signal the end of political arrogance, public projects being undertaken under IV. The Senate must have authority. formed electorate to decide wisely on corruption and abuse of power. any government ministry, spot checks There is a clearly no point in construct- the up coming National Referendum. Our Senate provides for the first time shall routinely be carried out to ensure ing this forward - looking institution with- ALL organizations must be given equal the proper Grand Special Senate com- the proper spending of public funds, in- out having its authority. Therefore, in opportunity to voice their positions and mittee. Its members shall be comprised cluding government contracts and all addition to the regular Legislative func- proposals freely. by one elected Senator for each suc- government statutory bodies. tioning of debate and review bills, we World history has recorded great hu- cessful party ovements or independents Additionally the Senate at any time will propose that the Senate be assigned full man events. One of these great events to become by right members with spe- summon and question any minister or Legislative powers. was when a dedicated group of patri- cial powers on this Grand Senate spe- ministers responsible for internal devel- Composition of the Senate, 21 sena- otic French men stormed and caused cial investigative committee. All parties opment policies the senate will also tors total the fall of the Bastille in France. In are assured equal voices in this Grand question any minister or ministers re- 1. Three (3) Senators will be elected France the Bastille was seen as an evil Special Senate investigative committee. sponsible for foreign diplomacy and directly by each district for a total of and hated institution of absolute power, We introduce this new Grand Special external development policies. eighteen (18) elected senators. arrogance and oppression. The fall of senate investigative committee to the The following are the 4 fundamental 2. Three (3) Senators appointed to the Bastille brought rejoicing, liberty, people. principles of our elected Senate. The represent Civic Organizations. quality and freedom to the French Additionally, this elected Senate shall elected Senate will be constitutionally (Please Turn To Page 9) people. be constitutionally empowered to have Many patriotic Belizeans are too con- a Grand Special Senate investigative vinced that Cabinet with absolute committee. On this Special committee power, corruption and oppression is a will sit one (1) representative for each FORFOR SALESALE true copy of the evil and hated French of the political entities who succeed in Bastille. Our devoted and committed the Senate elections. Schwinn 21-speed group of patriotic Belizeans have com- The successful independents will be menced to storm and demolish this evil empowered to choose one of their num- Bastille the seat and throne of Cabinet bers to sit on the Special investigative Cross-trainer bike absolute power in . committee. This will ensure transpar- History has also recorded that in most ency and fairness in determining any in- countries loyal to the system in great vestigation or influencing its outcome. numbers have opposed political change If only two parties are successful in but have always lost popular support. having elected Senators, the Governor Both prominent and common Belizeans General will be empowered to appoint have agreed that meaningful change is one independent Senator to sit on the necessary to dismantle absolute power Special Investigative Committee only to and made more controllable now. ensure there is always a quorum of three They are a group of determined pa- (3). Such Senator will not partake in triots to free both houses of our Legis- other deliberations and decisions of the lature from Cabinet absolute control, Senate. At the first sitting of the Senate they demand direct election of the next this Special Investigative Committee will Prime Minister and a free Elected Sen- elect a rotating president for each in- ate before the 2008 General Elections. vestigation. Once an investigation is We demand the demolition of the sanctioned by the Special Investigative Belize Bastille (Cabinet absolute power) committee, they will by joined by 3 ap- NOW! pointed Senators representing the civic WTP Alliance presents to the people: organizations to form a Senate tribunal The following 4 fundamental principles for a full hearing. All aluminum rims, release wheels & seat of our elected Senate. POWER OF IMPEACHMENT BY Shimano ‘Alivio’ brake Asking 1. The elected Senate will ensure THE SPECIAL INVESTIGATIVE calipers, pedal arms & $500 O.B.O. an effective people’s participation, an COMMITTEE derailleur gear, handle contact Independent effective people’s representation and a Impeachment is a charge of serious grip shifters, quick more effective strong and capable leg- misconduct while in public office. The Weekly Friday, July 6, 2007 The INdependent Reformer Page 8 “Size“Size IsIs NotNot Destiny,Destiny, RegionalismRegionalism Is”Is” By: Dr. Indira Rampersad ship, but the motion in the ocean that ideology, rather than European pow- aware that herein lies the Caribbean’s Was it sheer coincidence that an al- really matters.” ers, is not only timely but an impera- trump card for invaluable aid, assis- leged plot to blow up a fuel supply to The Titanic may have sunk, but our tive for the U.S. Cuba’s Fidel Castro, tance and preferential treatment from JFK airport by some geriatric Carib- incessant navigation for regional se- Venezuela’s Hugo Chavez, Bolivia’s the United States. bean “terrorists” had dramatically un- curity has not. So far, the Caribbean Evo Morales, Brazil’s Luis Inacio Lula But even without an expansion of folded before our incredulous eyes just conference has received virtually no da Silva, Argentina’s Nestor Kirchner, the “Castro-led Axis” into Caribbean over a week before seventeen Carib- attention from the mainstream Ameri- Ecuador’s Rafael Correa, Uruguay’s waters, a U.S. accord with regional bean leaders flocked to Washington can media. Our seventeen Caribbean Tabare Vasquez, Chile’s Michelle Governments which affords the su- D.C. in a combustive burst of tropical leaders could not compete with Israeli Bachelet and Nicaragua’s Daniel perpower easy access to the region exuberance to participate in the Con- Prime Minister, Ehud Olmert, for Ortega, all veer toward the left. Some under the guise of “Caribbean terror- ference on the Caribbean – a 20/20 Georgie’s and the media’s attention. such as Chavez, Kirchner, Ortega, ism”, would fulfill both the historical Vision (June 19th-21st, 2007)? United in their deep and abiding com- Morales and Correa have overtly ex- objectives of “Manifest Destiny” and Organized with near-military preci- mitment to eradicate those “extrem- pressed anti-imperialist sentiments the Monroe Doctrine and appease the sion, the conference was the product ists and radicals who use violence and and resentment for the Washington Cuban-American zealots in Miami. of the collaborative efforts of the cor- murder as a tool to achieve objec- Consensus. Vasquez’s first announce- Yes, all politics are domestic. pus of Caribbean Ambassadors to tives”, the unholy alliance between ment upon election victory in 2004 Sadly, American paranoia has Washington, the Caricom Secretariat, Bush and Olmert is reinforced by was the restoration of diplomatic ties reached such mammoth proportions the IDB, the World Bank, the OAS and America’s unrelenting support of Is- with Cuba. Correa quipped that that it seems to have been transmit- the U.S. government. The title “20/20 raeli occupation of Palestinian land. Chavez “calling Bush the devil, of- ted even to the Caribbean Diaspora Vision” was appended for two reasons: But it gets curiouser and curiouser. fends the devil”. in the U.S. I was privileged to be first, the organizers hoped to assess the Clearly, the timing of Olmert’s visit Yes, all politics are domestic. Strong sponsored to present a paper at the issues of the region with the clarity of was well- calculated. The 2008 elec- anti-Castro Republican representation Diaspora Forum of the Caribbean perfect vision and second, they are de- tion drums are rolling in the U.S. Hi- by hardline, right-winged Cuban- Conference on “Crime as an Obstacle termined to have them resolved by the lary and Obama have already raised Americans in South Florida has facili- to Diaspora Investment.” The paper year 2020. The three-fold Expert, millions for their respective Demo- tated the perpetual tightening of the necessitated a series of unstructured Diaspora and Private Sector forums cratic campaigns. And though money ridiculous embargo on Cuba, particu- and semi-structured interviews with collectively and critically addressed has never been a major problem for larly in election years. They constitute members of the Caribbean business anything and everything that are of con- the Conservatives, the enormous con- the second most important campaign diaspora in Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, cern to the region including, trade, in- tributions of the powerful Jewish- financiers in the U.S., superseded only Orlando and New York. My findings vestment, finance, energy, education, American lobby to the Democratic by that of the Jewish-American lobby. reflect a highly successful but suspi- crime, security, diaspora and deeper, Party is no secret. Indeed, it is larger The latest 2004 and 2006 Reports of cious, traumatized, disappointed, thicker, faster and denser integration than the financial contributions from the Commission for Assistance to a cynical and angry Caribbean-Ameri- through the Caricom Single Market and any other ethnic Political Action Com- Free Cuba, detail the tenets of the can business disapora which has not Economy (CSME). mittee in the U.S. Yes, all politics are draconian policies which currently fully assimilated into the mainstream In the U.S., we frequently hear that domestic. govern American foreign policy to the American cultural and political milieu. all politics are domestic. The bombshell It was clear that American insecu- island. At the same time, the majority are not terrorist plot explodes in timely fashion rity rather than regional security was These closely mirror the Monroe prepared to return or invest in the re- to be a convenient diversion from the the issue of the day when our leaders Doctrine of 1823 and its later Amend- gion mainly because of the spiraling doldrums into which the current Bush met with Bush on Wednesday morn- ment in 1904 in the form of the crime rate, inadequate returns on in- administration has sunk itself. That same ing. Hoping to repeat at least some of Roosevelt Corollary. Fortunately, the vestment due to the currency exchange week of alleged Caribbean terrorism, the gains of Reagan’s Caribbean Ba- cojones of some of our regional lead- rate and lack of well-paid and pro- the U.S. media was having a field day sin Initiative (CBI), their reasonable ers, are still intact. It is the fearless fessional job opportunities. Yet, para- with the minority AG Alberto Gonzales’s demands for more aid, trade, prefer- and dynamic Guyanese and Soviet doxically, they harbor a lingering nos- catastrophic dismissal of three minority ential treatment and investment from trained Bharat Jagdeo, who took the talgia to return to the tropical home- judges. Then came allegations of the Uncle Sam, more than likely fell on Bush by the horns in his defense of land. U.S. decision to fund Sunni insurgents deaf ears. Bush was more preoccu- the Caribbean’s relations with Chavez Undoubtedly, our leaders’ three- in Iraq. Not surprisingly, Bush’s ap- pied with the Caribbean’s relations and Castro for which Bush expressed day dedication to regional issues in proval rating continues to slide to an all with Venezuelan firebrand, Hugo open concern. Washington has heightened awareness time low. It is rather curious though, how Chavez and Cuba’s indomitable “It is in our national interest to have of their commitment to improving the quickly the analysts were able to pre- Comandante, Fidel Castro. Why? relations with Venezuela and Cuba,” quality of life in the region. They as- pare their media speeches on “Carib- Recently, at the meeting of the Carib- he explained to the distraught Bush. sured and reassured us that this con- bean terrorism” and make the link to bean Studies Association in Bahia, “Just as it is in your interest to have ference is not just shop talk. So, even Islamic fundamentalism. The message is Brazil (May 29th-June 2nd), I at- relations with un-democratic Saudi in the absence of any real American clear. Whether in the Middle East or in tempted to explain the “Logistics Be- Arabia.” He should have added “and interest in developing the region, if at our tropical paradise in America’s back- hind the “Illogical” U.S. Cuba Policy” socialist China” which incidentally, is least two of the proposals on the re- yard, the issue of the day is “American in the geopolitical context of both the largest trading partner of the gional agenda should indeed come to Insecurity.” U.S. domestic politics; “Manifest United States. fruition in the short or medium-term, Seemingly oblivious to America’s Destiny” which Justifies American ex- The astute Jagdeo must have long we can concur unhesitatingly, that the grand designs, our leaders and profes- pansionism; and the 1823 Monroe realized that despite the myriad of is- Conference has been a resounding sionals from the region and the U.S. Doctrine – the historic mission of the sues on the Caribbean agenda at the success. By now, Caribbean leaders diaspora, embraced the conference with U.S. to ward-off European powers Conference, the only real concern of should know that the onus is on them passion, zeal and true Caribbean fer- and protect what it considers its the U.S with regards to the region is to collectively take the initiative for the vor. Even with the monumental Wash- sphere of influence in the region. In a the formidable strengthening of the region’s development. For “Size is not ington obelisk towering over our heads post-Cold War era, it seems that leftist “Castro-led Axis in Latin Destiny, but Regionalism is”. And as like a giant phallus, Jamaica’s Prime America’s worst fears are justified. America” by other Caribbean coun- far as the United States is concerned, Minister, Portia Simpson-Miller, insisted The capitalist superpower has failed tries. After all, Jamaica’s Michael all politics are domestic. that “Size is not Destiny, Regionalism to castrate Castro for forty-six years Manley (1976-1980), Grenada’s Dr. Indira Rampersad is an Inter- Is”. But the call for a new Shiprider and is now ironically forced to con- Maurice Bishop (1979-1983) and national Relations/Public Policy agreement in the interest of regional se- front an unenviable leftist political mi- Jagdeo’s predecessor, Cheddi Jagan Specialist at the Department of curity, this time on Caribbean terms and lieu in the absence of a Soviet Union, (1957-1964, 1992-1998), have all Political Science, University of conditions, gave credence to the age- and in its own backyard. A neo-Mon- flirted outrageously with socialism in Florida. You can contact her at old adage that “it’s not the size of the roe Doctrine targeting the socialist the past. Jagdeo must also be acutely [email protected] Friday, July 6, 2007 The INdependent Reformer Page 9 TOPICAL TIDBITS Why Musa supports quoted as saying. “Therefore, officials machines that basically burn crude oil The Musa Administration appointed should set up good examples, and from Spanish Lookout. According to a new Court Registrar almost a year Taiwan and not abide by social morality rules.” the Wartsila website, Bowen intends to ago, but the backlog of cases seems to Mainland China Last year, a Chinese vice admiral was sell power to BEL. Wonder if the poor be getting longer. Perhaps Henry Usher jailed for life on embezzlement charges people of Belize will see any benefit would have been the better choice for BEIJING (Reuters) - China plans to after one of his many mistresses blew from that sweetheart deal with a sover- Registrar after all. He wouldn’t be al- sack all officials found to have secretly the whistle on him when he refused to eign guarantee to boot. Check it out for lowing a two to three year wait for civil “kept and supported” mistresses, in a give in to her demand for money. yourselves; go to the wartsila.com cases… move aimed at raising social morals, website. state media reported on Friday. The step Nothing new from OW under a black Some other good news for the local hardens up previous policy. “It is a mis- PUP Convention in lord: the US has banned cheap shrimp cloud understanding that officials who have from parts of Asia. Bowen is big in the When will the Belize Sugar Industries mistresses would only be sacked when Corozal? shrimp farming business in southern make good on promises to reduce the the situation is serious,” the Beijing News The People’s United Party held its Belize so this is splendid news for his amount of ash it dumps on surrounding quoted a Ministry of Personnel spokes- National Convention in the Mexican bankers. Wonder if he’ll take over communities? How many years will it man as saying. Border town of Corozal over the NOVA Industries now, at fire sale price. take, and what kind of guidelines and Mistresses and “second wives” are weekend to endorse party leader Said Maybe OPIC will cut a deal with him, penalties are in place for such emis- common among government officials Musa and other officials. The hard lin- or vice versa, after all. sions? If its causing plants to choke to and businessmen in China, and Chinese ers led by sought to Finally, who will Bowen bank on in death, what is it doing to the lungs of media have said the financial pressures further discipline former Deputy Prime the upcoming general elections? We Orange Walkenos? of keeping mistresses have driven some Minister Briceno but failed. Briceno know he owns sections of the UDP and officials to seek money through bribes has a couple of other big fights on his the PUP, concurrently. But who is he or abuse of power. hands as his former campaign man- banking on? Wonder if he is factoring Corrupt officials are a major cause ager and friend “Chendo” Urbina the third party coalition sans NRP? of public outrage in China, and the builds a grown swell in Orange Walk country’s Communist rulers have for the UDP. When Briceno loses his Corporate Raider warned that if graft is not checked it seat to “Chendo”, it will be a tough Ashcroft’s street captains have been could threaten the party’s grip on fall for the former northern caucus offering a premium to small sharehold- power. powerhouse…not unlike the Ricalde ers of the telephone company. If you The ministry said it had studied the fall from grace a few decades ago. had bought in a $2/share his people are issue and found it “necessary to make offering $10 for shares that now have a a clarification and emphasis” on the The philanthropist’s book value of about $6/share. punishment for officials who sup- BTW, BTL still promising better ported mistresses. “The morality of businesses Digicell countrywide coverage but it government officials shown in their Lord Bowen plunked down $19.5 remains just that: empty promises. management or power operation... MILLON USD to Wartsila of Sweden An Orange Walk resident swept up this See You in Court! pile of fly ash from the patio, where they directly affects the moral level of the to purchase special power generating say the hot ashes have been killing their whole society,” the spokesman was But When? garden plants. Friday, July 6, 2007 The INdependent Reformer Page 10 NoNo BicamerBicameralal ElectedElected SenaSenate?te? NoNo RefReforormm The Honorable Said Musa has indi- the laws in place prior to the 2003 elec- people. Therefore, all Senators should be The voter must be careful and shun po- cated a leaning toward an Elected Sen- tion. The PUP did not consider institut- elected by the people and therefore an- litical rhetoric which is not sincere and ate. This would be great news if Said ing such laws. swerable to them, directly. designed to mislead the public. Under the Musa and the PUP are contemplating a As 2008 approaches the PUP has An Elected Senate may not be a per- present system there is no true democ- Bicameral Senate with its checks and been considering election reform. Even fect form of government. However, an racy. The ministers must answer to the balances arising from its separation of now, the PUP is in the process of weak- Elected Bicameral Senate has existed for Prime Minister who is in effect a dictator. powers and separation of chambers. As ening a version of election reform bill hundreds of years in many countries and If they go against the Prime Minister’s the facts are unfolding however, it ap- regarding finance that was prepared for continues as the best form of government wishes they are removed from their posi- pears that if there is to be any version them based on Canadian laws. One that has ever been devised. tions. of an Elected Senate endorsed by the would believe that Canadians laws on Obviously the cronies and their political So the questions right now are: does PUP it will be a watered down. to election reporting would be proper mentors do not want a Bicameral Elected the Honorable Said Musa and the PUP A diluted version of the Senate which for Belize. Apparently the Ministers do Senate for one reason and one reason really want Senate reform, campaign fi- does not have Bicameral features would not think so as they are looking for only: it would put a stop to available slush nancing reform and other reforms so that not be of any value. Instead, it would something less effective. You can’t funds. There would no longer be a means they become servants of the people? Or be an unpatriotic approach and an in- blame then as the Canadian law would whereby the political party could reward do they just say they do, so they can sult to the voters. The Prime Minister’s expose donation that the ministers do its friends and contributors with public continue to serve themselves at the actions are to be given greater consid- not want exposed and provide for pen- money at public expenses. public’s expense? eration than his words. alties they do not want to face, for fail- A forum has been set up allegedly to ure to report the donations. So what they determine the public’s position as to an will come up with and present to the Elected Senate. But does it? The forum people as campaign finance “reform” was not a public forum. It is a PUP fo- will not be beneficial to the people; it rum conducted and controlled by the will be useless except are more PUP PUP. In its first public meeting, a PUP propaganda. Senator spoke against an Elected Sen- Those who believe an Elected Senate ate—acting as “devil’s advocate.” But will slow down the legislative process are we have to wonder, are these forums using a spurious argument. The slowing structured in such a way to distort that process is actually excellent, as it is pre- which the PUP will eventually claim is vents the Prime Minister from ramming the public view? through legislation before those who are The PUP, in the last National Elec- to vote on it are able to discover the bad tion, promised political reform and a halt elements hidden in the legislation. to the ever increasing corruption. There Those who claim an Elected Senate will was no reform and corruption has grown be more expensive are using an even to staggering proportions, injuring the weaker argument for an Elected Bicam- country’s economy. A Bicameral eral Senate would be the Country’s great- Elected Senate (two legislative cham- est money saver. Its curb on corruption bers) is the best means of stopping cor- would save taxpayers many times the cost ruption. It would take the power from of running the Senate. There would be no politicians interested only in lining their more $34 Million guarantees, or other own pockets and finally give the power guarantees of private debts for cronies. to the People where it belongs. Those who suggest that Senators should Evidence that points to the PUP’s pro- be appointed by political parties, churches clivity towards watering down pro- or other organizations are not thinking posed reforms is found in the PUP’s clearly and ignoring the problems created present consideration of the important by such appointments. Senators should issue of Election Reform. not be continued as rubber stamps. In 2002 the Political Reform Com- It is Belize’s interests that are to be mission in its determination put a prior- served by the Senators, not the interest of ity upon initiating laws regarding elec- any political party, church or other orga- tion finances. The Commission wanted nization. Senators should answer to the Visit The Belize Zoo The Best Little Zoo In The World Friday, July 6, 2007 The INdependent Reformer Page 11

drugs unless Mom, Dad or the doc- tor says it's okay. Why Drugs are Bad And find other ways to cope with your problems. Taking drugs just drugs are the best thing that ever hap- crack, that is never good for you. makes things worse. een ly pened to them — but that doesn't last To be safe, never ever take any T long. Over time, they'll need more and Page more to get the same high — and this By: Julia Heusner really increases the risk of addiction, Drugs are chemicals that change the and in some cases, overdose. Drugs way a person's body can ruin their health, force them to works.Cigarettes and alcohol are two drop out of school, lose friends, and ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) week will be Saturday. kinds of legal drugs. But smoking and impair their judgment enough that Opportunities to meet new friends will LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) excessive drinking are not healthy for they'll do some really stupid stuff. I come through pleasure trips or social Your creative input will be appreciated adults and off limits for kids Drug users do things they wouldn't events. Be sure to take care of the needs by your boss. You will attract new love One of the most popular drugs is do while sober—they engage in un- of youngsters. You will have the discipline interests. Moves will be hectic but favor- marijuana beacause it is so easy to get safe sex or put other people's lives at to make changes you feel are necessary. able in the end. Take precautions while and usually cheap. risk on the road. You will be extremely receptive to new traveling; you don’t have to get anywhere But there are many other kinds of Sure, this might all seem fun for them and progressive methods at work. Your that fast. Your lucky day this week will be drugs, but all of them are hazardous while they're doing it but are they go- lucky day this week will be Wednesday. Monday. to your body and your health. ing to be laughing through an unwanted TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Most people use the drugs just to pregnancy, a car accident, or during Avoid any erratic behavior or it could Opportunities for romance may develop forget about everything,some kids the wait for results from an AIDS test? cause isolation at home. Try to join groups through dealing with groups that have a think that drinking and drug use is The issue of drugs can be very con- of interest such as ballroom dance classes purpose. Be cautious while traveling to alright because they see their parents fusing to young children. If drugs are or perhaps an internet organization. Get foreign countries. Think twice before you come home after a long day of work so dangerous, then why is the family help setting up a reasonable budget. Look say something you might regret later. Don’t and all they do is reach for a beer or medicine cabinet full of them? into ways of making extra cash. Make lend or borrow. Your lucky day this week pop a pill. And why do TV, movies, music and residential changes that will lift your spir- will be Thursday. Some people think that drinking and advertising often make drug and al- its. Your lucky day this week will be Mon- SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) smoking helps reduce stress - they're cohol use look so cool? day. Balance is required if you want stability. wrong. They forget about the dangers Why do people take bad or ille- GEMINI (May 22-June 21) You can raise your standard of living if drugs can cause them. gal drugs? Social events will be plentiful. You’re not you pick up some freelance work on the Marijuana is a big seller these days There are lots of reasons. Maybe your usual self this week. You can offer side. You are exceptional at presenting your and it is a lot worse than it used to be they don't know how dangerous they your help to others but back off if they ideas. Take care when dealing with older people's bodies are building up are. Or maybe they feel bad about appear to be offended by your persis- relatives. Your lucky day this week will immunity's to the drugs the the deal- themselves or don't know how to tence. Avoid any confrontations with col- be Tuesday. ers have to add more things to help handle their problems. Maybe they leagues. Your lucky day this week will be CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) you get the "high". don't have parents they can talk to. Saturday. Avoid any confrontations with col- When a child’s parents divorce the Why are some drugs good and CANCER (June 22-July 22) leagues. Extend an invitation to clients you child feels that it's their fault and they some drugs bad for you? Home improvement projects will en- enjoy spending time with. Do not sign need a way to escape from the pain When you get sick, the drugs the hance your residence and bring the family contracts or get involved in any uncertain of there messed up life. Another rea- doctor gives you will help you get closer together. Responsibilities with re- financial deals. Try to be there for some- son is because their friends pressure better. spect to older relatives may be a burden. one if they need assistance. Your lucky them into using drugs. But if you take these drugs when You might be overly emotional concern- day this week will be Saturday. Most teen marijuana users are be- you're healthy, they can make you ing situations at work. Be sure to look into AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) tween the ages of 12-18. They often sick. travel opportunities that will provide you Don’t expect new acquaintances to be say they feel great at first and that Also, there are some drugs, like with mental stimulation. Your lucky day completely honest about themselves. this week will be Wednesday. Don’t evade important issues; you may LEO (July 23-Aug 22) find yourself backed into a corner. You You may want to stay in the background really can’t do anything to change matters Senate Elections now, this week. You need adventure and ex- this week. In return, the satisfaction you citement in your life. You may feel a need get is enough for you. Your lucky day this before General Elections to make changes to your legal documents. week will be Wednesday. before General Elections You need to take a long, hard look at PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) (Continued From Page 7) We propose that Village Council yourself and your personal situation. Your Problems with large corporations or in- Senate Elections Elections, City and Town Council lucky day this week will be Sunday. stitutions are apparent. Try to get others 1. Three (3) Senators shall be elections be reduced to a thirty (30) VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) to stand behind your good judgment. Be elected by each district for a five (5) months term and be held simulta- Don’t overspend to impress someone sure that you lay your cards on the table. years term. There shall be midterm neously with each midterm senate who interests you. Disputes on the home You should look into making some physi- Senate Election. elections. The Senate is the people’s front may be hard to avoid. The locks, cal changes, such as new hair color or 2. Nine (9) Senators shall vacate House, it belongs to the people. stove, gas, or electric wires may not be toning up your body. Your lucky day this their seats at the end of the thirty (30) Building Democracy - The key for secure. You can come up with ways of week will be Monday. months expiration of the first Senate a better future and a better country is earning extra cash. Your lucky day this Elections. our goal. The (9) Senators seats to be Free Senate elections and a direct contested at the first mid term Senate election of the Prime Minister now. Elections shall be by the alphabetical Be it resolved through a national ref- order of districts. Three (3) Sena- erendum now. tors of the , three (3) Are you in favor of an elected Sen- Senators of the and ate? three (3) Senators of the Corozal Dis- YES• or NO• trict, the Orange Walk, the Stann VOTE YES!!! Creek and Toledo Districts, Senators YES•× shall seek endorsement at the end of Support the elected Senate now. the Senate first term. On behalf of WTP Alliance Friday, July 6, 2007 The INdependent Reformer Page 12 TThehe IndependentIndependent BookshelfBookshelf RecommendedRecommended ReadingReading forfor ourour ReadersReaders Public Servant Encourages Today’s Youth New Book Motivates Future He stresses that humanity is the com- Cornell University. A former research ics ranging from agriculture to democ- Leaders to Reflect on Their Roles mon thread among the people of the fellow at the University of the West racy. His awards include accolades in the World world. Taking time to develop a greater Indies and director of research and de- from the Queen of England and a deco- ROCKVILLE, Md. – A new book appreciation of viewpoints and lifestyles velopment with the Windward Islands ration in the rank of Grand Cross from designed to inspire young people to foreign to one’s own will help open Banana Growers association, he served Chile. He has published one other book, greater heights, J. Edsel Edmunds’ The minds and strengthen people’s capac- as a senator in St. Lucia and as an am- a poetry collection titled Many Hori- Triangle of Success (now available ity to serve. bassador of that country to the United zons (Diaspora Press, Medgar Evans through AuthorHouse), presents moti- Edmunds encourages young people States, United Nations and Organiza- College, NYU). vational tools and sound advice for to explore constantly, acquire hobbies tion of American States. He was chair- AuthorHouse is the premier pub- building a foundation from which to that stimulate their creativity and brain man of the OAS Permanent Council and lishing house for emerging authors and soar. power and realize the vast amounts of chief of OAS electoral missions in new voices in literature. For more in- Directed at youth, especially those in information they have yet to learn. This Guyana and Grenada. An international formation, please visit disadvantaged situations, Edmunds sets the stage for people to transform consultant to donor agencies, he has www.authorhouse.com. seeks to empower them and help them into the strong leaders the world des- also written more than 50 papers in top- reach their full potential. In order to perately needs. achieve this, he offers a “Triangle of An uplifting book, The Triangle of Success” with three key facets: goal Success motivates readers of all ages setting, believing in oneself and creat- to assess how they can better them- ing action plans. This roadmap to selves for the good of their world. achievement helps readers focus on Edmunds has spent his career in pub- FORFOR SALESALE improvement in any area of their lives. lic service. He earned a bachelor’s de- The book emphasizes an understand- gree in agronomy from the University ing of the differences in culture that of- of Puerto, a master’s degree in plant pa- ten spark confrontation and confusion. thology and a Ph.D. in nematology from NewNew CruiseCruise PortPort inin QuintanaQuintana RooRoo Mexican communications and trans- Punta Brava, will occupy 47,182m2 of port ministry SCT has awarded to busi- land in the state’s Benito Juárez munici- nessman José Alberto García a pality, near the Chetumal-Puerto Juárez 2.35bn-peso (US$216mn), 20-year highway, according to the SCT docu- concession to build and operate a cruise ments. ship terminal in southern state Quintana Works to build the port, that will in- Roo, according to SCT documents. clude five mooring positions, will begin No bidding process was carried out, upon the approval of its executive as the concession was directly awarded project, which will be evaluated within to García, an SCT official told 30 days once handed in to SCT. After BNamericas. that García will have two weeks to make The terminal, which will be known as any necessary changes, the documents read. Now available

Get your Free Gift One 28 footer, 8-foot beam, licensed of an Independent for 24 passengers, fishing or Reformer Weekly passenger, live well t-shirt when you buy a year’s Asking $27,000 subscription Call 223-1276 Friday, July 6, 2007 The INdependent Reformer Page 13 LivingLiving withwith ClimateClimate ChangeChange (Continued From Page 5) the reductions in polar ice caps led to a 4 - 6 meter rise in sea level. potable water supply, and reduced fish- With the industrial revolution of the eries catch will threaten the islanders’ eighteenth century came rise in carbon food supply. An increase in insect pests dioxide , methane and nitrous oxide lev- such as mosquitoes will also produce els which have resulted in global warm- and increase in vector-borne diseases ing. The International Project on Climate such as malaria and dengue. Change postulated in February 2007 Climate research shows that most of globally average surface air is warming the warming in the past half century has to around 1.8ºC for the low scenario resulted from manmade greenhouse (likely range 1.1 ºC to 2.9 ºC ) to 4.0 gases. In recent years, global warming ºC by 2099. Under one of the climate has been the subject of a great deal of change scenarios (SRES A1B), by mid political controversy. As scientific 2090, global sea level will reach 0.22- knowledge has grown, this debate is 0.44 m above the 1990 levels, and ris- moving away from whether humans are ing at a rate of about 4 mm per year. causing warming and toward questions In the Caribbean, where much of our of how best to respond. WWF-CA rep Sylvia Marin and reef scientist Nadia Bood discussed how to mitigate the livelihood comes from the sea, a deli- The Planet is Heating Up and Fast effects of climate change and global warming. cate balance will need to be struck be- Glaciers are melting, sea levels are ris- unusual when compared to the past erywhere, except for parts of the east- tween investing in tourism development ing, cloud forests are drying, and wild- 1,300 years. The last time the polar re- ern Pacific, Southern Ocean and parts and mitigating the effects of climate life is scrambling to keep pace. It’s be- gions were significantly warmer than at of Antartica. change on fisheries and tourist attrac- coming clear that humans have caused the present (about 125,000 years ago), The warmth of the past 50 years is tions such as the beaches and the reef. most of the past century’s warm- ing by releasing heat-trapping gases as we power our modern lives. Called greenhouse gases, their levels are higher now than in the last 650,000 years. Canada’s Inuit see it in disap- pearing Arctic ice and permafrost. Shantytown dwellers of Latin America and Southern Asia see it in the lethal storms and floods. Europeans see it in the disappear- ing glaciers, forest fires and fatal heat waves. Evidence from tree rings, ancient coral and bubbles trapped in ice cores reveal that the world has not been as warm as it is now for a millennium or more. The three warmest years on record have all occurred since 1998; 19 of the warmest 20 years have all been observed since 1980. And Earth has probably never warmed as fast as in the past 30 years - a period when natural influences on global tem- peratures, such as solar cycles and volcanoes should have cooled us down. Other signs that are hard to ig- nore: Carbon Dioxide (CO2) lev- els are rising. The oceans and seas are warming. The glaciers are melting. Sea level is rising. The maritime ice sheets are becoming thinner. The lakes are shrinking. The ice platforms are collapsing. Birds incubate their eggs earlier. Coral bleaching are more fre- quent. Invasion of exotic species has become harder to control. Amphibians are disappearing. Beach erosion is increasing. Warming is truly global. Since 1979, when satellite measure- ments started, scientists have ob- served that the land is warming significantly faster than over the oceans, but that warming is ev- Friday, July 6, 2007 The INdependent Reformer Page 1414 GuestGuestGuest GallerGallerGalleryyy

El Salvador’s Sandra Lopez wowed the judges with her physique and floor routine to win a gold medal at the Central American These Belize City youngsters found an Bodybuilding and Body Fitness Championships at the Bliss Institute on Saturday night. innovative way to beat the heat.

Belize swept the 1.68 cm class - Josephine Gault winning bronze, Kayla Myvett - gold and Arlene Welch - silver.

“Kegin” is a 17 year old manga artist in the US with Belizean parents

Prime Minister and first lady of St Vincent, Mr. and Ralph Gonsalves, Belize’s Foreign Minister and General Manager of Independent Weekly, Trevor Vernon, at Emily Rose Vernon was a star performer at her Kindergarten variety show. the closing reception of the Conference on the Caribbean in Washington DC June 21. Friday, July 6, 2007 The INdependent Reformer Page 1515

be jpeg or tiff formats only. Must be kheusner@yahoo. com and checks to INdependent Classifieds emailed, no disk pickup or drop off PO Box 2666, Belize City. 3) business card –first run is free Please note: 609-5632 3-5pm daily. (Photo be- 2007, $20 a run thereafter We must receive your ad by Friday low) 4) All classified ads must be emailed to at mid-day for inclusion in following “Free international real estate independent. newspaper. bz@gmail. Tuesday issue. and investment blog and podcast. com with cc to Go to http:// investtheworld.blogspot.com as we travel the world for fun, investment NOTICE Needed: Mountain Bike Tour Op- and profit.”For Rent: A (2) bedroom erator wanted in Cayo with equip- flat located in King’s Park, Belize City Private Property Owners Meeting ment. $800/month Tel: 663-5580 Cayo Adventure One commercial building (4 offices, Friday 6 July 2007 Tours Ph# 824-324 conference room, reception area) in 9AM @ Spanish Lookout Need help with cleaning, ironing, King’s Park $1800.00/month All owners, occupiers and people in possession of Belizean lands are painting or other household chores at Computers $800/each Call: 223- invited to attend a very important meeting at Spanish Lookout on Fri- your Ladyville home? Then call me at 1668/602-9182 day 6th July to develop a Private Property Policy concerning oil explo- 624-3652. Reasonable rates, mature Free Ads! The INdependent Re- ration and production. female. former is you your first classified ad There are a number of issues affect private landholders for oil explo- For sale: Home overlooking Sittee with us free of charge! After that only ration and production which are not well defined, and thus do not allow River w/1/3 acre. Info/photos at: $10 per advert per issue. Ads must the private landowner or occupiers to accurately access what rights http://web.mac.com/nadjablz be: 1) 20 words or less 2) photo must and options are available in negotiating the use of their property. The issues have been presented in a discussion series which has been cir- culated to interested parties for the purpose of developing a consensus position on the issues for inclusion as part of a Private Property Policy. The goal of this policy is to establish a consistent position which clearly sets out the rights of landowners and occupiers, and the conditions for using their lands for oil exploration and production which is consistent with international practice. The intent is NOT to be confrontational, but instead to develop a positive and uniform platform from which fair and reasonable private land use agreements can be negotiated. For More Information Contact: [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] LandLand FForor SaleSale SuitaSuitabblele fforor ConserConservvaationtion

70 acres in Burrell Boom for US$50K [email protected] Friday, July 6, 2007 The INdependent Reformer Page16 16 Friday, July 6, 2007 The INdependent Reformer Page 17