Tuesday, March 23, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 1

NO. 3447 CITY, TUESDAY, MARCH 23, 2021 (20 PAGES) $1.00 Auditor General fires back at PSU president

Auditor General Bradley has referred to alleged threats that were made to her life by the president of the PSU, Gerald Henry. , Fri. Mar. 19, 2021 blasted the allegations made against Marisol Amaya, she During a press conference held last her. According to Bradley, the reminded the public that her week by the unions that are part of statements made by the unions are a office, which is established the Joint Union Negotiation Team direct and baseless attack on her under section 120 of the which had been engaged in budget office, one which she says cannot be of Belize, is consultations with the government, the ignored. legally protected. union reps, in addition to expressing Bradley’s public statement She shared that the call for their opposition to GOB’s proposed asserted that the unions do not her removal was especially salary cuts, called for the removal of understand the mandate of the Auditor shocking, since she had been Auditor General Dorothy Bradley General or the powers vested in the in a meeting with the from her post. In response, Bradley office. Additionally, during an released a public statement that interview with KREM News’ Please turn toÑPage 19 Patrick Faber gets the jab Clifford Lorenzo BELIZE CITY, Fri. Mar. 19, 2021 murdered in Belize City On Friday, March 19, the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Patrick Faber, received his by Dayne Guy first dose of the Oxford/AstraZeneca Covid- 19 vaccine. He was asked by the Ministry of BELIZE CITY, Sat. Health and Wellness to take part in a public Mar. 20, 2021 inoculation to aid in quelling any doubts that A recent may be lingering in the public’s mind about the shooting on Rivero vaccines. Street claimed the “So far, it’s a pain-free process, it’s life of yet another something that I encourage people to do,” Faber shared. PleaseÑ turn to He noted that while he was requested to take the vaccine as Page 19 the Leader of Please turn toÑPage 18 PSU holds solidarity Belize Zoo’s Sharon Matola passes Premium gas motorcades BELIZE DISTRICT, Sun. Mar. 21, 2021 up by $1.24 The country of (See story on page 18 Belize is mourning the loss of a Jevaughn Ramclam falls trailblazer, beloved environmentalist, from 200-ft tower and humble founder (See story on page 3)

PleaseÑ turn to Covid-19 update Page 19 (See story on page 2) Haitian gang intimidates Jaguars (See story on page 17) Page 2 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, March 23, 2021 Covid-19 update GOB orders Barranco resident (From page 1) to cease farm development

family members of that person of Mayan descent began moving into the area, which eventually became Midway Village. “What need to know is that Midway Village is actually on Barranco farmland. It was owned by the Cayetanos, and they started out by giving one person in the Maya group permission to build a house on this farm and farm a piece. Then it started to multiply, and the next thing you know, family came, other family members came, and then the next thing you know it’s a full-fledged community. It started around 1982,” said Miranda-George. Miranda-George asserts that the BARRANCO, Toledo District, Fri. traditional lands in the area belong to Mar. 19, 2021 the Garinagu people of Barranco The has village and expressed hope that the ordered Dr. Francis Arzu, a resident government of Belize will find an of Barranco village, to halt the amicable solution to the issue at hand. development of a farm which is near ”ILO Convention and the United the border of the neighboring Midway Nations Declaration of the Rights of Village. Indigenous People clearly stated that BELIZE CITY, Mon. Mar. 22, 2021 percentage now stands at 97.0%. The two communities consist of the tribal lands, the indigenous lands, As phase one of the COVID-19 Fortunately, no new fatalities caused indigenous Garinagu (Barranco) and the lands that your ancestors used from vaccine rollout proceeds, the Ministry by Covid-19 have been recorded. Our Mayan (Midway) residents way back then, belongs to you,” she of Health and Wellness continues to call case fatality rate is currently 2.55%. respectively, both of whom have lived said. all persons eligible to receive their first Two active hospitalizations have been side by side since the ’80s. A release from the Ministry of shot of the vaccination to reach out to recorded. The issue at hand involves the Human Development, Families and vaccination sites across the country. As On March 19, one (1) new case of development of farmland believed to Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs stated, “It of Friday, March 19, a total of 15,006 the virus was found from a batch of be owned by one of the members of is the Ministry’s understanding that the vaccines have been administered to 394 samples processed by the Barranco’s village council, who was said cease-and-desist order does not Belizean citizens. On that day alone epidemiological team inside the sent a letter from the Lands at all directly concern any claim by (March 19), 1,856 persons received Ministry of Health and Wellness. On Commissioner, ordering him to stop villagers of Barranco Village to lands their initial jab. that day, two new recoveries were the development. of their community. Rather, Dr. Arzu Among those persons were Leader logged and 1 hospitalization was This has led the National Garifuna himself, not the Barranco Village of the Opposition, Hon. Patrick Faber, reported. No new deaths related to Council to make a public statement Council, was apparently granted and several media personnel. Covid-19 were identified on that day. clarifying the ownership of the lands permission to survey a large parcel According to reports, teachers and On March 18, 2021, 1,207 persons in the area. of land in 2016. The 2015 Consent media workers have begun to receive were vaccinated throughout the The president of the National Order of the Caribbean Court of vaccinations as a part of phase 2(a); country. Garifuna Council, Sandra Miranda- Justice requires Government to respect however, the Minister of Health and At this time, according to Reuters, George, shared that the Mayan Customary Land Rights of Maya Wellness, Hon. Michel Chebat, Belize is seeing an average of four new residents of the Midway community communities, thus making necessary announced on Saturday that the country infections reported daily. This is a never owned the lands on which the consultation with stakeholders of both is currently still in phase one of the marked decrease compared to the village is located. In fact, only one indigenous southern communities.” vaccination rollout. number of new cases seen daily in person of Mayan descent was The release ends by saying, “The According to Minister Chebat, a December 2020. permitted to develop a farm in that area Ministry assures both indigenous total of 65% of healthcare workers — Internationally, the Biden by the owners of the land, who were communities that it will duly consult which amounts to approximately 2600 administration in the US has decided the Cayetano family, according to and engage with all relevant parties persons, have received a dose of the to loan about 4 million doses of the Miranda-George. in seeking amicable resolutions to the vaccine. Also, around 30% of persons AstraZeneca vaccine to and Shortly after, an influx of friends and challenges at hand.” over the age of 60 — a total of about Mexico as the company awaits 9,000 senior citizens — have come out approvals in the US. for their shot. The Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccines Since the start of the pandemic, a total have not been authorized in the US for Detainee shot by police of 12,407 confirmed cases of COVID- use as yet; however, inoculation 19 have been logged in the country. Of programs in Canada and Mexico are BELIZE CITY, Sat. Mar. 20, 2021 shot to prevent the possible escape that number 12,031 infected persons well on their way, and are administering A Belize City police officer of the detainee, who has since been have recovered from the deadly virus. doses of the serum from AstraZeneca. connected to Precinct 2 shot a hospitalized and is currently in a To date, the Ministry of Health and According to AstraZeneca, recent detainee who was allegedly trying to stable condition. Wellness (MOHW) has recorded 316 data from a US-based clinical trial escape from police custody on One expended 9 mm shell was deaths related to Covid-19. Also, a total shows the vaccine to have a 79% rate Saturday evening. According to recovered from the scene. of 94,455 tests have been conducted of efficacy against symptomatic reports, around 6:00 p.m. Ryan While being questioned by members throughout the country since the start of disease. Foster, 26, was escorted by police of the media on Monday, police said the outbreak locally. In Brazil, vaccination rollouts have outside the cellblock so that he could that their evidence revealed that On Monday, March 22, the Ministry lagged as the third surge of infections wash his hands. excessive force was used in the of Health and Wellness (MOHW) continues to bring that country’s That is when he attempted his detention of Foster. He was reportedly released data covering new COVID- healthcare system to its knees. As of daring escape from police custody. shot in the neck by an officer who was 19 cases and COVID-19-related Friday, March 19, the COVID-19 An officer on duty fired a single on duty. This officer has since been hospitalizations and deaths that were wards in healthcare facilities in 16 of detained pending charges. The officer reported over the weekend and on the 26 states have reached or surpassed total of 122,992,844 confirmed cases who took him to wash his hands has Monday. A total of 1,352 tests were 90% occupancy. This means that the of COVID-19 have been identified been detained as well. This officer conducted during that period, and over healthcare systems in those areas have globally. Also, 2,711,071 deaths due allegedly gave police a different the past three days, a total of 7 new collapsed or are at a high risk of to the virus have been reported to WHO. version of the incident which could not cases of the virus have been identified. collapsing. As of March 20, 397,950,709, vaccine be corroborated by investigators. Also, 5 new recoveries were According to the World Health doses have been administered across An investigation into this incident announced, and thus our case recovery Organization, as of March 22, 2021, a the world. continues. Tuesday, March 23, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 3 UDP opposes salary cuts Jevaughn Ramclam falls

salaries because it simply from 200-ft tower cannot be afforded by the public officers, especially at (From page 1) this time when thousands of According to Polonio, a mishap Belizeans, many of whom occurred during a process that is a belong to the same routine part of the task that they were households as these public completing. Ramclam had to cut a officers, have already lost cable tie to dismount a cable tied their jobs or means of around his chest, but it was while he income, even as the cost of was doing so that tragedy struck. At fuel, food, and other that point, Polonio saw his son falling commodities continue to backward. He immediately started to skyrocket.” shout out for him and made his way During an interview, down the tower. Leader of the Opposition, But the fall had claimed the young Hon. Patrick Faber shared man’s life. that despite the trying Polonio said that he observed a half economic times that the loose cable on the left side of the safety country is facing, the harness, but cannot confirm that that Briceño administration is BELIZE CITY, Thurs. Mar. 18, 2021 was the cause of his son’s demise. BELIZE CITY, Fri. Mar. 19, 2021 engaged in widespread, reckless On Thursday, March 18, 22-year SMART has issued a statement The United Democratic Party spending. Jevaughn Ramclam fell to his death expressing their sadness of the passing issued a press release on Thursday, “That fact of the matter is that while working on a 200-ft. tower with of Ramclam. It stated that he was hired March 18, 2021 condemning the even in the plight that we’re in now, his father, Troy Polonio. The father as an independent contractor to work government of Belize’s proposed the PUP government continues to be and son are tower climbers, and on a on the tower located on the Phillip salary cut and increment freezes for very reckless, continues to routine installation of a piece of Goldson Highway near Benny’s Home three years. The UDP said that it nonchalantly going about pleasing internet equipment on a tower located Center, just a stone’s throw away from strongly opposes the proposal and itself and its party supporters. We’ve in the Benny’s compound on the SMART’s main office. stands in solidarity with the unions seen how many new vehicles, we’ve Northern Highway, tragedy struck. Ramclam, affectionally known as of the Joint Union Negotiating Team seen the issue with the Ministry of Polonio told 7News that he “twin” in the Neal Pen Road who have rejected the proposed pay Health vehicles, and the way in witnessed the horrific death of his community, loved deejaying with his reductions. which they operate, we’ve seen the child. twin brother. They both hosted The release states, “The UDP Prime Minister rent two new office He said that the climb which ended various events and parties in Belize strongly opposes this reduction in spaces when there is a perfectly in the death of his son was the second City. good office space in and of the day, and that they had ascended The 22-year old leaves behind a Cabinet room in Belmopan,” Hon. the tower to mount a piece of access two-year old son. Police have shared Faber said. point equipment for wireless internet that his death has been classified as Man charged Faber commented that while the and would have then left the site. an accident. government will have to take measures to achieve fiscal balance, for Logwood an outright reduction in salaries is not where they should start. Street double “We don’t need to start at cutting the salaries of teachers; we may look murder at strengthening the taxation systems so that the leakages aren’t there, and that may mean tightening up the belt for a lot of things. We can start by collecting some of those government taxes that are overdue...,” Faber commented. The release from the UDP also stated, “The UDP not only opposes the substance of this government’s proposal, but also condemns the manner in which it is being administered, and the gross disrespect to our teachers and public officers by elected officials who keep making public statements that are uncomplimentary, condescending and downright BELIZE CITY, Fri. Mar. 19, 2021 demeaning. We regard with A Belize City man has been particular and utter disgust the Prime arrested and charged for the brutal Minister’s remarks that public double murder on Logwood Street officers and teachers have NOT been which took place last Wednesday making any sacrifice (which could night. Cynthia Conorquie, 49-years not be further from the truth), and old, and Allen Garcia, 21, were both the publicly expressed view by the fatally shot by a lone gunman who Minister of the Public Service that entered a yard in which they were for teachers (or public officers) to standing. protest is to waste their time.” That person, the alleged killer, has The release ends by stating, “The since been identified as Richard UDP calls on the government to Bennett, a 23-year-old Belize City clean up its act, cut the waste at the resident. He has since been arrested top, and leave alone the salaries of and charged with two counts of our teachers and public officers, murder and is expected to be which is essential for their survival arraigned in due course and and for the stability of their remanded to the Belize Central Prison families, our communities and our for the indictable offense. country.” Page 4 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, March 23, 2021 PAHO to retrofit six Belizean health facilities

by Dayne Guy prospective contractors to examine the facilities GORDA, Toledo District, in order to assess and Fri. Mar. 19, 2021 identify areas of the The Pan American Health facilities that need Organization (PAHO) is embarking retrofitting. on an initiative to retrofit six Additionally, it healthcare facilities in Belize: the allowed the Acting Punta Gorda Community Hospital, Regional Manager, the Corozal Community Hospital, the Mrs. Floridalia Quiroz, Southern Regional Hospital, and the Design and Northern Regional Hospital, Western Inspection Consultant, Regional Hospital, and Central Mr. Ariel Mitchell, to Medical Laboratory, and it has answer questions of already facilitated site visits by interest put forward by prospective contractors to the Punta the contractors. Gorda Hospital. The retrofitting Through the Health Sector Support project is being carried Programme, which is funded by the out to strengthen the European Union (EU), 6.8 million health sector as a Euros will be allocated to strengthen response to the and improve the healthcare system in pandemic. Dr. Noreen Belize through retrofitting that will Jack, PAHO/WHO be done in a climate-friendly and Representative of disaster-resilient way. This program Belize said, “As falls under the 11th European COVID-19 has shown Development Fund (EDF) agreement us, the capability to between Belize and the European respond and deliver Union. care safely during The first site visits by prospective emergencies including disaster- contractors were scheduled at the related situations is key in becoming Punta Gorda Community Hospital, a ‘smart’ health facility. Through this the Corozal Community Hospital, and partnership with the European Union, Price Barracks the Southern Regional Hospital. The we will be able to reduce vulnerability other facilities are scheduled to have in six of Belize’s healthcare facilities being renovated their contractor site visits in the while strengthening structural and non- upcoming weeks. structural aspects, including increasing These site visits allowed operational savings.” Belize observes 2021 World Water Day

by Dayne Guy Belize. by Dayne Guy of water, and it reminds the public of Following the inspection of Price the need to value where we get our LADYVILLE, Belize District, Fri. Barracks, Minister Marin saw an BELIZE CITY, Mon. Mar. 22, 2021 water from and how we store water, Mar. 19, 2021 urgent need to make some The Ministry of Natural Resources, and also to be aware of how we use The (BDF) improvements there. The newly Mining, and Petroleum, alongside water (drinking, sanitation, and for headquarters at Price Barracks are refurbished restrooms at the barracks various local and international health purposes), the role it plays in currently undergoing several now include modern solar-powered organizations and entities, is production across various essential infrastructural developments. These heating systems, advanced sewerage observing World Water Day today sectors, thus boosting socioeconomic developments were started after the systems, and a novel water reservoir March 22, 2021. activity, and the socio-cultural Minister of National Defence and system. World Water Day celebrates the aspects of water, including its Border Security’s tour at the site, “The welfare of the men and importance of fresh and readily recreational uses, cultural uses, and where he saw the immediate need for women of the security forces of accessible water. World Water Day, spiritual attributes. renovations. Belize are [my] greatest priority,” which was designated following a As a means to raise awareness of Hon. , Jr., Minister said Hon. Marin. The renovations are recommendation at the 1992 United the value of water among the general of National Defence and Border welcomed by the Deputy Nations Conference on Environment public, the Ministry and the World Security, unveiled plans for the Commandant of the BDF, Asariel and Development (UNCED), serves Water Day Planning Committee improvement of the facility yesterday, Loria, who said, “This gesture of to raise awareness that about 2.2 encourage persons to visit the Thursday, March 18. Since taking on good faith by the Ministry of National billion people currently live without Hydrology Belize or Belize the mantle of Minister of National Defence is well- received by the men access to clean, drinkable water. Department of the Environment Defence and Border Security, Hon. and women of the BDF.” This year’s theme for World Water Facebook pages and leave a message Florencio Marin, Jr., has placed an Works are scheduled to continue Day is “Valuing Water.” It’s a theme under the heading “What water emphasis on inspection of the on the five other buildings at Price that encompasses all aspects and uses means to me”. conditions of all military sites across Barracks. Tuesday, March 23, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 5

Testing the mettle of our democracy

It has not been unusual in the past couple decades of global doomsday call for the then UDP government in the 1998 economic instability, for our governments to face major crises general elections. nearing national elections that sometimes test the mettle of Democracy is supposed to be all about the will of the people; our democracy, with street demonstrations and strikes, acts and the Belizean people made their will abundantly clear on of civil disobedience and threats of violence prompting the November 11, 2020, that they were completely fed up with state’s response with police muscle in the streets to maintain corruption — giving the boot to the same UDP government “law and order;” but on each occasion, things have quickly they had sent in a landslide to Belmopan in 2008 with a returned to “normal” after a few days. However, it has never promise to clean up PUP corruption, and now transferring been the case this early in an administration for such that same mandate to the landslide PUP winners at the polls polarization to be developing between government and the to clean up the UDP corruption left behind. major unions; and the nation’s economic situation has never However, party politics being what it is, about propaganda been more desperate and more in need of drastic remedial and winning elections, the PUP may have overreached in their action. The current pandemic- induced economic crisis is grandiose campaign promises in 2020; in hindsight, it probably therefore ripe for political fallout of significant proportions, wasn’t necessary. Belizean voters had apparently already and the long-term impact of whatever settlement is reached committed themselves to kicking out the UDP “crooks.” So will depend on how well negotiations are managed and now that the dust has settled, and with the PUP seeming to concluded by government leadership in the person of Prime be dragging their feet on some of their campaign promises, Minister Hon. John Briceño. He and his government are at an and giving the pandemic and “bruk” government as their important juncture, with potential major impact on the future excuse, the now UDP Opposition is already seeing their course of our democracy. How will he handle this crisis? chances to score political points. Could it be that, barely four It is an accepted fact that our economy is at a breaking months into their administration, the new PUP government point, demanding drastic action urgently, and this has been could find themselves digging a political hole from which they admitted by our former prime minister, our present prime cannot climb in time for the 2025 general elections? Or worse minister, both major business sector organizations, and all still, could they be pressured to call early elections? Not likely. the major unions. As Belize’s economy slipped into a recession If Briceño and the PUP can survive the rough waters of over the past few years, the impact was most obvious in the negotiations ahead with the unions, and also set our economy private sector, where many businesses closed down and on a path towards health and stability, they will likely be thousands of jobs were lost, rewarded by voters in the next general elections. The big resulting in scores of question is, however, in what way will the PUP get through the newspaper ads for auction of negotiations with the unions? Will the unions become bitter private properties and and revengeful? Will the agreed remedies be sufficient to buildings. Neither is there salvage and resurrect our crippled economy? Will they be true to the PUP’s campaign slogan: “Everybody fi win”? (estb. 1969) much dispute on the major Business and editorial offices: reasons for our present dire Whatever they decide, however far government is willing to 3304 Partridge Street, Belize economic situation, although bend to satisfy the demands of the unions, it should perhaps City, Belize, Central America the year-old Covid-19 be guided by a new mantra derived from their own, namely is printed twice weekly by the pandemic did cause the that “everybody fi eat.” And, following from one prominent Amandala Press. precipitous fall of our tourism- local economist’s suggestion, it would probably be wise to Telephones: 501-280-4703/ based economy from an consider how much of an individual’s salary equates to “a 501-202-4477 already depressed state, to living wage” based on the cost of a required weekly “basket the absolute disaster we are of goods for a family of five.” Any employee earning below Publisher: now facing. Better economic that level is not to be considered for cuts; as the saying goes, Editor-in-chief: Marco Lopez planning and an end to it would be like “cutting off your nose to spite your face.” Business Manager: Jacinta Hyde government cronyism and Then start at the top, removing all “luxury” earnings: meaning corruption, have long been all earnings beyond the base salary that the ordinary, Make-up & Design the cry from the electorate. hardworking citizens have to budget to pay all their living Artist: Andrea Dennison The indisputable fact of the expenses. (This will be temporary, of course, until our economy Executive Secretary: Odessa matter is that, with our is back on its feet.) After thus leading by painful example, Robinson Smith nation’s debt to GDP ratio and only after the unions’ cost-saving recommendations and Compositor: Tyra Welch around 130%, there are not “confidence-building” demands for the end of stifling Lithography: Clive Smith many options for new corruption are satisfied, can the salary percentage cuts and Printers: Kent Brooks international loans, and the wage freeze be realistically considered. only potential lender Of course, because of the constitutional “monarchical”-type knocking on our door, the power enjoyed by our prime minister, Mr. Briceño can listen Please email Correspondence: International Monetary Fund to all, and then just do as he damn well pleases — “ram it,” as [email protected] (IMF), is prescribing some a former UDP spokesman would say, and let the chips fall draconian solutions as a where they may, utilizing the police and another State of Advertisements to: Emergency if necessary to keep “agitators” in check. After all, [email protected] condition for lending us any more money. And their usual there is always the excuse of the existing pandemic. And Mailing Address: prescription is directed at then, the PUP could bear the slings and arrows of criticism for Amandala Press government’s large employee the next three years; and depend on the cool breeze of 3304 Partridge Street roster – salary cuts, wage Belizeans’ forgiving nature to blow in their favor by 2025. c/o P.O. Box 15, increment freezes, and large- But there is still a risk, however small, that such an approach Belize City, Belize scale retrenchment of could so anger and energize the unions, that the sparks could employees. It is a recipe that inflame the general citizenry, leading Amandala’s website: most pundits considered the to disturbances in the streets, Please turn to„Page 6 amandala.com.bz Page 6 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, March 23, 2021 ALEJANDRO VERNON’S TROUBLING REVELATIONS

the Guatemalan President Fuentes was because they were claiming our country, negotiations, need to come forward and giving George Price and the People’s and I agree with that reasoning. let our citizens know about their United Party (PUP), could be used by In 1976, when I was stationed in negotiations with Guatemalan officials. as an acknowledgment by Orange Walk District, Guatemalan The dispute between Great Britain and the Belizeans that Guatemala does in president Kjell Eugenio Laugerud Guatemala over Belize, is scheduled fact own our country of Belize. The Garcia was planning to invade Belize. to come before the International Court people of Belize, despite this, loved He assembled thousands of troops of Justice (ICJ) soon. Guatemala will George Price and the People’s United along the Guatemalan Belizean use all the records and documents they Party and kept voting for him and his western border for his intended possess, to convince the court that our party in all the elections that were held, purpose. The British brought in country belongs to them. This will up until 1984. They lost their first thousands of troops to defend Belize include documents that include general election to the United against the Guatemalan planned testimonies made by Belizean citizens Democratic Party (UDP) by a margin aggression. I was listening to a and diplomats on behalf of our country of 21 to 7. Many members of the broadcast on a Mexican television Belize. People’s United Party went so far as to station on which the former president I applaud Alejandro Vernon for accuse of lying and only of Guatemala, Miguel Ydigoras coming forward with this important using the Guatemalan issue to get Fuentes, was talking about some of his historical revelation. I am asking that by Wellington C. Ramos elected as prime minister. dealings with Belize Premier, George more Belizean citizens come forward Philip Goldson was afraid that the Price. I confirmed then that there is truth to tell us what they know. Despite our I find the article dated March 20, Guatemalans were going to use the to what Philip Goldson, Alejandro independence, the Guatemalan claim is 2021 written by former mayor and area money they were giving George Price Vernon and others have said about still hanging over our heads with no representative of Toledo, Alejandro and the PUP to own our country. George George Price’s dealings with end in sight anytime soon. National Vernon, to be revealing and troubling. Price and the PUP wanted Guatemala. Hero status and a holiday has been George Price’s dealings with independence from Great Britain, and Some members of George Price’s granted to George Price by us. This Guatemala were made public by the they needed money for their movement, Cabinet have died and said nothing. revelation will now lead to an important Leader of the National Independence so they went to Guatemala to get it. Some are still alive and are still not question, which is: Should such status Party (NIP), the late Philip Goldson, Most people would agree that saying anything. All the members of the be granted to a citizen who had dealings on several occasions during the 1960’s Guatemala was not the best country that People’s United Party who have with the country that is still claiming when I was growing up. In fact, I heard Belize should have gone to for money, knowledge about these discussions and our country today? Goldson making it clear on the rostrum in meetings that I attended at Court House Warf in Belize City, that if it was not for George Price’s dealings with Delays in the COVID-19 vaccine rollout Guatemala, he would have remained a member of the People’s United Party while countries like Paraguay are yet (PUP). The British considered George to begin vaccinations. Price’s dealings with Guatemala as The deployment of vaccines has been treason, because Guatemala was relatively slow in the region of the claiming Belize. Americas. The Pan American Health They were also afraid that whatever Organization (PAHO) has been working with manufacturers and countries in which these manufacturers are located to expedite the process of distributing vaccines. Many countries are now waiting to receive a supply of vaccines, which will only be sent to them after a joint decision is made regarding the most by Dayne Guy Of all the countries in the Caribbean, viable means of delivering vaccines to has been the first and only any given country. Washington D.C., USA, Wed. Mar. 17, country to receive vaccines through Vaccine manufacturers are currently 2021 COVAX. On March 15, it received a tasked with meeting the exponentially LIQUOR LICENSE All Caribbean and Latin American total of 14,400 preliminary doses of growing demand for vaccines. Despite countries have fully put in place the COVID-19 vaccines to minimize the their efforts, manufacturers are still NOTICE measures that are required of nations risk of transmission of COVID-19. facing difficulties in trying to satisfy the which would like to receive vaccines Latin American countries like Peru, demand. Director of the Pan American LIQUOR LICENCE NOTICE: through the COVAX facility, yet there Columbia, Guatemala, El Salvador, Health Organization, Dr. Carissa Notice is hereby given that Yasmany has been a delay in the transfer of and Honduras have also received their Ettiene, said, “We are happy that Canto is applying for a Liquor vaccines to these countries. initial doses of COVID-19 vaccines; vaccines through COVAX are being Licence, to be operated at Mani’s delivered, but we recognize that the Shop, San Antonio Village, Cayo need for more vaccines and sooner is District, under the Intoxicating Liquor Testing the mettle of our democracy great in the Americas.” She continued, Licence Ordinance Revised Edition “This is a bottleneck that still prevents 2000. us from getting vaccines to every days ahead may impact the LIQUOR LICENCE NOTICE: Continued from „Page 5 country at the same time.” Notice is hereby given that EDISON very quality of our democracy According to PAHO, empirical data notwithstanding a State of TRAPP is applying for a Restaurant going forward, depending on shows that March and April will not Emergency. And who knows Liquor Licence, to be operated at the concessions made and be easy months for vaccine distribution. Radisson Fort George Hotel and where that could lead? governance-improving It is expected that vaccines will become Marina, #2 Marine Parade, Belize These are not the best of measures taken. But for sure, more easily accessible in June. Until City, Belize, under the Intoxicating times to be in government. But there must be some serious then, PAHO emphasizes the importance Liquor Licence Ordinance Revised the PUP asked for the job. And belt-tightening in government of countries developing a strategic Edition 2000. the man on the spot is their finances. If he gets Belizeans vaccination plan to protect the lives of LIQUOR LICENCE NOTICE: leader, our prime minister, Hon. to “believe in the process,” the most vulnerable groups of people. Notice is hereby given that EDISON John Briceño. Leaders come in they will support. Whichever Basic public health measures should TRAPP is applying for a Publican many forms and different road our government takes, the remain the basis of the pandemic Special Liquor Licence, to be styles. Sometimes a leader’s going will be rough; and it will response until vaccination is operated at Radisson Fort George strength is in his humility; but still be left to those Belizeans widespread. This includes physical Hotel and Marina, #2 Marine Parade, in times of great crisis, a who have, to do whatever they distancing, hand washing, mask- Belize City, Belize, under the decision has to be made before can to help make sure that wearing, avoidance of public spaces, Intoxicating Liquor Licence it is too late. How Hon. Briceño “everybody eat.” contact tracing, screening, and Ordinance Revised Edition 2000. handles the situation in the Tighten up, Belize! isolation. Tuesday, March 23, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 7 The BPP must capitalize on its PG showing

by Colin Hyde disarray after the PUP routed their was uncertain if the GG would “do wonder out loud what these PUPs coalition in the 1969 general as requested.” What, the PM marched might be up to. Audrey can be rough. If you are interested in electoral election. up to Belmopan and rudely demanded She built the UDP, and when they politics and you find the two major The UDP was formed in 1973, and that the GG hand over Her Majesty’s messed up she kicked the stool from parties un-stomachable, you’ll make CUF not only contested the 1974 SUV and the keys to the governor’s underneath them. She did not build your entry through a third party. Ah, general election in coalition with mansion? the PUP, but if they have sense they and you will find out one day that them, but it also dissolved into the Of course that story was a stretch, will walk the chalk line. we have a two-party system, and bigger party. and the station, or somebody, later There are some mighty big shoes then you will decide to join them, In 1971 UBAD formed a coalition retracted and said that the GG would there for somebody to fill, and we or get your butt to the sidelines. with the NIP and contested the be stepping down, and it was more can’t question the person who Hopefully you find out soon, so you municipal elections in Belize City, like a mutual decision. Governor opined to Audrey that Ms. Sandra don’t frustrate yourself, or worse, and in 1974 UBAD went alone in General Sir is an Coye might be the fit. Of course she frustrate people whom you convince the general elections and lost, after elder, and it has been circulating for would. Sandra might not be as to believe in you. which the party officially dissolved. a long time that he was near to entertaining as Sir Colville, few There’s no glory in our two-party However, the “party,” although it’s retirement. people are, but in everything else she system for a third party candidate in out of electoral politics, has at times John Briceño is not Manuel is his equal. Sandra is brilliant, a general election. Independent Sedi thrown its support behind one or the Esquivel, and Sir Colville is not educated, classy, and she ain’t no vanquished Diane in 2003, but came other of the two major parties in the Dame Minita. The reports are that the “yes sir, yes ma’am”. There is no in second to Godfrey. interest of forwarding its agendas. cold-hearted did doubt that she would be a great Hmm, you know these election The NABR, which was the NIP force out the very formal Dame ambassador, but, but if she pundits have a hell of a story to tell faction of the present UDP, broke Minita. PM Briceño isn’t a cold dude, approved, would the Queen? No one there, and they’re sitting on it. It is away in 1992, but rejoined the UDP and Sir Colville, I believe he must can question Sandra’s credentials, the UDP that shouted truth crushed in time for the 1993 general election have sin, but that man has walked but, putting it mildly, she has not to earth will come to light, and my to advance its agenda. with kings and kept the common touch been quiet about what she perceives gudnis what is being revealed The VIP made its best showing in like no one has before him. as the failings of our former colonial through the Commission of Inquiry the 2009 BMP municipals, with a Ah, Audrey is very worried that master. could make you forget what was number of its candidates outpolling the PUP might replace him with a The old PUP was a very unearthed by the Special some of the candidates of the noh-mek-a-seh-the-word or a party mischievous set, but when it came Committee, if you’re the type that second-place PUP, but the party friend. The same thought might have time to choose a GG, George Price doesn’t have English bulldog in your seems to have morphed into a crossed other minds since we got the went for quality and capacity to veins. You know, the British hung a pressure group, the BPM. The VIP news that we will be getting a new represent us at Buckingham. That dead man because the court had moved to join the UDP to contest the representative to Buckingham, but George Price liked to tease, but he sentenced him to die by hanging. 2006 municipal elections in only Audrey is bold enough to knew when to be very serious. That is the story that I yer. Belmopan, but the UDP insisted on The blurb in 2003 was that the dominating the ticket and the merger UDP wanted no part of Sedi because fell apart. The UDP might have acted he is Hubert’s breda — the UDP can differently if the PUP hadn’t be very personal — and they chose imploded in 2005. Maybe then the Kenny Morgan, who refused to cut UDP would not have felt so strongly his dreads. Manuel Esquivel had that it could sneeze at the VIP. pressured Russell Garcia into We should be on the way to cutting his, and to put on a suit with introducing some form of campaign necktie too, but Barrow couldn’t get financing laws, and that would give Morgan to budge. So he brought third parties a slightly better chance Diane…wait, hasn’t she always in general elections, but the third worn dreads? Oh, I see — okay on parties that contest general elections a woman, bad on a man, until Castro can make no claim to have a hand broke the discrimination barrier. there. The third parties have talked, If a third party candidate stays in but it is union power, mainly that of the game long, it must be that they the BNTU, that has pushed that enjoy the camaraderie in the agenda to where it is now: a organization they belong to, and campaign promise of the party in maybe the notoriety that comes with power. challenging the big parties against If we are to get proportional all odds. Before I say anything bad, representation or the alternative let me move on to my advice to the vote, you can bet your bottom dollar BPP. that it will not come through the Coming off their defeat of the PUP contesting of general elections by the in the mayoral election in Punta third parties. The BPP has a great Gorda this March, the BPP isn’t in agenda, but it’s being wasted. the greatest position, but it gives George Price said the ballot is about them some traction to move up, to winning power, and the BPP should play a more meaningful role if they get the sense, if its members are are anxious about change. To that urgent about effecting change. end they would have to cut a deal with the UDP in Toledo. They What, anybody ask wouldn’t be opening new territory; many third parties, for their purpose, the Queen? have crossed the “floor.” In the early 1970’s, a third party Perennial people’s champion, Ms. named CUF won control of the Audrey Matura, counseled the Board in an election government on her social media page that I’m near certain neither the NIP about the type of person we will not nor the breakaway PDM contested. tolerate to fill the post of GG. Earlier, If that wasn’t a deal then, the likely Love FM had run a story which said reason for the NIP and PDM sitting that PM Briceño had visited the GG out in Corozal was that they were in to ask him to step down, and that it Page 8 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, March 23, 2021 Poniendo a prueba la entereza de nuestra democracia

No ha sido inusual en las últimas dos décadas de inestabilidad de su administración, el nuevo gobierno PUP podría encontrarse económica mundial, que nuestros gobiernos se enfrenten a cavando un agujero político del que no puede salir a tiempo grandes crisis cercanas a las elecciones nacionales que a veces para las elecciones generales de 2025? O peor aún, ¿podrían ponen a prueba la entereza de nuestra democracia, con ser presionados para convocar elecciones anticipadas? No es manifestaciones callejeras y huelgas, actos de desobediencia probable. Si Briceño y el PUP pueden sobrevivir a las turbulentas civil y amenazas de violencia que provocan la respuesta del estado aguas de las negociaciones que se avecinan con los sindicatos, con fuerza policial en las calles para mantener “la ley y el orden”; y también encaminar nuestra economía hacia la salud y la pero en cada ocasión, las cosas han vuelto rápidamente a la estabilidad, probablemente serán recompensados por los “normalidad” después de unos días. Sin embargo, nunca ha votantes en las próximas elecciones generales. La gran pregunta sido el caso tan temprano en una administración que tal es, sin embargo, ¿de qué manera el PUP superará las polarización se desarrolle entre el gobierno y los principales negociaciones con los sindicatos? ¿Se volverán amargos y sindicatos; y la situación económica de la nación nunca ha sido vengativos los sindicatos? ¿Serán suficientes los remedios más desesperada y más necesitada de medidas drásticas acordados para salvar y resucitar nuestra paralizada economía? correctivas. Por lo tanto, la actual crisis económica inducida por ¿Serán fieles al lema de la campaña del PUP: “Todos ganamos”? la pandemia está lista para consecuencias políticas de Independientemente de lo que decidan, por mucho que el proporciones significativas, y el impacto a largo plazo de cualquier gobierno esté dispuesto a inclinarse para satisfacer las acuerdo que se alcance dependerá de qué tan bien se gestionen demandas de los sindicatos, tal vez debería guiarse por un y concluyan las negociaciones por parte del liderazgo del gobierno nuevo mantra derivado del suyo, a saber, que “todos en la persona del Primer Ministro, el Honorable John Briceño. Él comemos”. Y, siguiendo la sugerencia de un destacado y su gobierno se encuentran en una coyuntura importante, con economista local, probablemente sería prudente considerar un potencial impacto importante en el curso futuro de nuestra cuánto del salario de un individuo equivale a “un salario digno” democracia. ¿Cómo manejará esta crisis? basado en el costo de una “canasta de productos semanal Es un hecho aceptado que nuestra economía se encuentra en requerida para una familia de cinco”. Cualquier empleado que un punto de quiebre, exigiendo medidas drásticas con urgencia, gane por debajo de ese nivel no debe ser considerado para y esto ha sido admitido por nuestro ex primer ministro, nuestro recortes; como dice el refrán, sería como “cortarse la nariz actual primer ministro, las dos principales organizaciones del para fastidiarle la cara”. Luego, comiencen desde arriba, sector empresarial y todos los principales sindicatos. A medida eliminando todas las ganancias de “lujo”: es decir, todas las que la economía de Belize entraba en recesión en los últimos ganancias más allá del salario base que los ciudadanos años, el impacto fue más obvio en el sector privado, donde ordinarios y trabajadores tienen que presupuestar para pagar muchas empresas cerraron y se perdieron miles de puestos de todos sus gastos de subsistencia. (Esto será temporal, por trabajo, lo que resultó en decenas de anuncios en periódicos supuesto, hasta que nuestra economía se recupere). Después para subastas de propiedades y edificios privados. Tampoco de predicar así con un ejemplo doloroso, y solo después de hay mucha disputa sobre las principales razones de nuestra actual que se cumplan las recomendaciones de ahorro de costos de desesperada situación económica, aunque la pandemia Covid- los sindicatos y las demandas de “fomento de la confianza” 19 de hace un año causó la caída precipitada de nuestra economía para el fin de la corrupción asfixiante, se pueden considerar de basada en el turismo de un estado ya deprimido, al desastre manera realista los recortes porcentuales salariales y la absoluto que ahora enfrentamos. Una mejor planificación congelación salarial. económica y el fin del amiguismo y la corrupción del gobierno, Por supuesto, debido al poder constitucional de tipo han sido durante mucho tiempo el grito del electorado. El hecho “monárquico” que disfruta nuestro primer ministro, el Sr. indiscutible del asunto es que, con la relación deuda/PIB de Briceño puede escuchar a todos y luego hacer lo que le plazca: nuestra nación alrededor del 130%, no hay muchas opciones “embestir”, como diría un ex portavoz del UDP, y dejar que las para nuevos préstamos internacionales, y el único prestamista astillas caigan donde puedan, utilizando la policía y otro estado potencial que llama a nuestra puerta, el Fondo Monetario de emergencia si es necesario para mantener a raya a los Internacional (FMI), está prescribiendo algunas soluciones “agitadores”. Después de todo, siempre existe la excusa de la draconianas como condición para prestarnos más dinero. Y su pandemia existente. Y luego, el PUP podría soportar las hondas receta habitual está dirigida a la gran lista de empleados del y flechas de la crítica durante los próximos tres años; y depender gobierno: recortes salariales, congelación de incrementos de la naturaleza perdonadora de los beliceños que sople a su salariales y despidos a gran escala de empleados. Es una receta favor para el 2025. que la mayoría de los expertos consideraron el llamado fin del Pero todavía existe el riesgo, por pequeño que sea, de que mundo para el entonces gobierno UDP en las elecciones generales tal enfoque pueda enfurecer y energizar tanto a los sindicatos, de 1998. que las chispas puedan inflamar a la ciudadanía en general, Se supone que la democracia tiene que ver con la voluntad del provocando disturbios en las calles, a pesar de un estado de pueblo; y el pueblo beliceño dejó muy en claro su voluntad el 11 emergencia. ¿Y quién sabe a dónde podría llevar eso? de noviembre de 2020, que estaban completamente hartos de Estos no son los mejores tiempos para estar en el gobierno. la corrupción, dando la patada al mismo gobierno UDP que habían Pero el PUP pidió el trabajo. Y el hombre en el aprieto es su enviado en un triunfo aplastante a Belmopán en 2008 con la líder, nuestro primer ministro, el Honorable John Briceño. Los promesa de limpiar la corrupción del PUP, y ahora transfiriendo líderes vienen en muchas formas y estilos diferentes. A veces, ese mismo mandato a los aplastantes ganadores del PUP en las la fuerza de un líder está en su humildad; pero en tiempos de urnas para limpiar la corrupción UDP dejada atrás. gran crisis, se debe tomar una decisión antes de que sea Sin embargo, siendo la política de partidos lo que es, sobre demasiado tarde. Cómo el Honorable Briceño maneja la propaganda y ganar elecciones, el PUP puede haberse situación en los próximos días puede afectar la calidad misma extralimitado en sus grandiosas promesas de campaña en 2020; de nuestra democracia en el futuro, dependiendo de las en retrospectiva, probablemente no fue necesario. concesiones hechas y las medidas de mejora de la Aparentemente, los votantes beliceños ya se habían gobernabilidad que se tomen. Pero ciertamente, debe haber comprometido a sacar a los “delincuentes” UDP. Así que ahora un ajuste serio en las finanzas del gobierno. Si consigue que que el polvo se ha asentado, y con el PUP pareciendo estar los beliceños “crean en el proceso”, lo apoyarán. Cualquiera demorando algunas de sus promesas de campaña, y dando como que sea el camino que tome nuestro gobierno, el camino será excusa la pandemia y que el gobierno está en bancarrota, el difícil; y aún quedará en manos de los beliceños que tienen, ahora opositor UDP ya está viendo sus oportunidades de ganar hacer todo lo posible para asegurarse de que “todos coman”. puntos políticos. ¿Podría ser que, apenas cuatro meses después ¡Ajústense, Belize! Tuesday, March 23, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 9

Lake Garden, a community which is charge of the 1999 divesting was and KREM got some old stuff from tower, which used to be the AM a creation of the late surveyor, Henry Godfrey Smith, an attorney who was a Radio Belize’s AM era, because I broadcast tower for Radio Belize. It is Flowers, a contemporary of surveyors high official of the ruling People’s believed the meeting was a set-up, taller than the LOVE FM tower, but like the late James V. Hyde, is across United Party (PUP) at the time. based on what I had seen happen in the technically quite inferior. (Sometime in the Philip Goldson Highway from Before you reach these three first three weeks of KREM’s existence, the 1970s, I believe, the PUP Lord’s Bank. When you’re leaving aforementioned properties/towers, you what I had seen happen in February of government of Belize made the Lord’s Bank and headed up the will pass on your left a huge estate, the 1993, and thereafter. The divestment decision to upgrade from AM highway, you turn to the right and follow largest of such in an area where there meeting was attended by Mose Hyde broadcasting to FM. AM radio signals a badly beaten- up road for perhaps a are very expensive buildings and and Michael Hyde, representing travel farther than FM signals, but FM half mile, and you will reach an area properties. That estate is owned by Dr. KREM. gives you higher quality for your music where you will see three towers on Rene Villanueva, who was an ordinary Early in the history of KREM broadcasting.) separate properties. One of these public officer before fortune began Radio, I had to make a decision. Would Anyway, the KREM Radio tower towers is owned by BTL, or Digi, or smiling on him in February of 1993, a I become involved in the building and sits on 7 acres of land in an exclusive whatever they call themselves. few months before the June 30, 1993 growth of KREM Radio, or would I residential area, but our land, west of Another tower is the LOVE FM general election threw the PUP out of remain at Amandala and make sure Captain Hook’s shrimp farm, was all broadcast tower, and that is next to a office and replaced them with the KREM’s bills were paid? In 1989, bush and grass and wild trees. About fairly larger ferro-concrete building, United Democratic Party (UDP). Amandala was in its prime and could two years ago, I began refurbishing the also owned by LOVE FM. LOVE FM Fortune smiled on Rene, who was the subsidize KREM, which we did. I small wooden building which serves also has a smaller building on their land. public officer in charge of Radio remained at Amandala. as the home of our broadcast transmitter When Radio Belize or Friends FM or Belize/BCB at the time, because the The phenomenal rise of the and also the sleeping quarters for our the Broadcasting Corporation of PUP had to find a way to stop KREM Kremandala Raiders, semi-pro security personnel. One thing led to Belize, or whatever they called Radio. The PUP had to stop KREM’s basketball sub-champions in 1992 and another. Visiting those 7 acres was very themselves, was divesting in 1999 (this rise, because when they had given us champions from 1993 to 1996, was of therapeutic for me, in that it was a was the era of privatization), they gave the license in 1989, they had promised great benefit to KREM Radio, and vice breezy, open space where my mind the FM tower, FM buildings, and land the Belizean power structure which versa. This is another story for another would experience relaxation and to the Rene Villanueva corporation, financed the PUP’s 1989 general time. Anyway, the point is that KREM comfort. I began to work on clearing essentially making Rene a multi- election campaign, that KREM would survived because of massive roots the land (or supervising the clearing of millionaire. Rene now owns three quickly fail. Instead, KREM survived. support. the land), most weekday afternoons for radio stations and a television station. I did not attend the divestment The third tower in the Lake Garden maybe two years. I think that in my His LOVE FM is the only Belizean meeting when RSV got the goodies – area, which is a relatively exclusive radio station with a national signal. In the modern FM broadcast equipment, residential area, is the KREM Radio Please turn to„Page 10 Page 10 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, March 23, 2021 Dey Di Ride Wa High Horse! conclusion: dey di ride wa high horse! are very demeaning and condescending, park our cars and walk! But more so, It is often said that governments are to say the least! I have always said and I will continue run based on the mandates given. It is Then, there is the proposal for the to say this: fuel drives a country. If expected that they will seek to carry teachers and public servants to give fuel prices are exorbitant, then the cost out their mandate and deliver on their up a portion of their salaries in of goods and services will be inflated, promises, serving at the behest of the addition to accepting an increment further exacerbating the proverbial people who elected them. However, freeze for a protracted period of time. “lick” that the poor and marginalized more and more, as we live our lives, it When the unions voiced their people have to take! is becoming more apparent that discontent about the situation, the Then, to put the icing on the cake, “funniness” is somehow synonymous unions were in-turn labeled as selfish the country froze in its tracks when with governments. But what is rather and greedy. However, in the midst of news broke that the very good and unfathomable is a string of strange all this, there are the purported reliable Governor General of Belize occurrences almost on a weekly basis. revelations that some ministers and was being silently sent off into the It’s like a concatenation of events that ministries are procuring, and continue sunset! Wooiii, that one sure did strike stirs wrath among the people and to offer tenders for, the procurement a nerve and raised quite a bit of provokes the ire in us. I swear, I can’t of new vehicles and the like. That eyebrows! This show reminds me of Since being swept into office wi a understand these happenings and doesn’t quite spell austerity when you those good old soap operas that you massive and resounding mandate at the purported revelations as they are yourself are purportedly living the would run home to watch because polls back in November of last year, dropped week in, week out. dream, in disregard of the crisis we everyday is a new revelation! With and having had their mandate reaffirmed Let’s explore a few of the most recent face, sparing little to nothing? each passing day, a new episode at the polls in March of this year, this ones. There are the usual verbal Furthermore, there has been the bulk drops, and it’s hotter than the previous new administration di move funny! Do blunders that these elected officials of questionable appointments to fill one! It can only be said that dey di you notice it? They di move very shady, seem to be spitting out loosely — various posts and the purported ride wa high horse, I tell you, and I I tell yuh! Every day or every other day seemingly without regard or respect for nepotism in government. Despite being think the people are keenly paying news breaks about some funny business the populace; not to mention a sheer questioned about it and called out for attention. Nuh tek dis ya crowd lightly, that they are embroiled in, and it’s very lack of diplomacy! Lord, when you making such moves, the administration because this set of millennials in this early in their term. And I mean, it does listen to some of these interviews and has circumvented the public’s time and age are locked in to the not sit right with the Belizean people you hear the commentaries from certain objections, and they ultimately had their shenanigans like a teenager to his video one bit. Much like me, it irks a lot of government officials and leaders, you way. So now we find ourselves with a game. And we are simply not taking them, and some of their actions provoke cringe at the utterances and conjectures brand new pack of high-powered anything for granted! the ire of many. And after observing that spill from their mouth. In some appointments (a long list at that) that You see, the thing is this, from early some of the funny movements and the cases, it is outright ignorant and no doubt put an ever larger strain on on, we have to be watch dogs. We shady happenings, I can only draw one disrespectful; some of these statements the country’s wage bill and the economy have to be hawks, cause ultimate in light of the plight we currently find power corrupts! So we can’t afford ourselves in. So, you mean to say that to let anything slide, cause bam, you PAHO’s key takeaways we couldn’t seek to reduce the amount make one or two things slide, next thing of new appointments and run an they think it’s an ice-skating ring! essential service staff for the Hmmm... I tell yuh, ole pippl wudda from the pandemic government until a time that is more seh: “what a sekestre!” But, not to feasible or at a time when we rebound? worry, mi mamma woulda seh, “I si prioritization within healthcare Then, there’s the matter of fuel! I betta jenkunu dan den-deh dance and facilities was mismanaged. Dr. Etienne swear, since they assumed office, gas bruk up!”, if yuh know weh ah mean! claims, “We have relied for too long prices have risen more and faster than Nonetheless, ultimately, it’s quite a on a hospital-centric approach instead Creole bread on a hot Sunday peculiar and befuddling theatrical of strengthening primary health care, afternoon! It has risen so much, me display we are all witnessing. Quite which should be both the entry point done lose count. But if my memory a spectacle to behold, unlike any other. and a core pillar of our health serves me right, the cost of fuel has I wonder if it’s only me who’s noticing systems.” Strengthening primary increased at least 7 times since they the shenanigans, but all I will say is, health care will bolster the response assumed the reins! Seven times rise, be careful of da high horse weh yuh to COVID-19, which has drastically don’t hold your breath expecting a di ride before ih go lick yuh down! reduced the ability of health systems seven times fall. They di put wa lick to address other pressing health issues pan wi with the fuel prices and if it Unchained Reflections Of A Liberal during the pandemic. goes any higher, we will be forced to Pragmatist. by Dayne Guy ”The economic well-being of a country is directly connected to the Washington D.C., USA. Wed. Mar. 17, strength of its health system. Strong 2021 health systems are more resilient and From the Publisher The preparedness of healthcare respond better during an emergency, but systems around the world is being they also recover better and faster after Continued from Page 9 but all who see it agree that the KREM tested as these systems struggle to meet a crisis”, said Dr. Etienne as she „ tower-7 acres at Lake Garden is the heightened need for medical care mentioned her last takeaway from the mind’s eye I was seeing how the MCC looking good. I will take comfort then, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. pandemic. PAHO has advocated for Garden used to look, when we were at this point in time, from the pure In the most recent Pan American each country to invest at least 6% of its young. aesthetics. I feel good, but somewhat Health Organization (PAHO) media gross domestic product into the health Last Sunday afternoon, I finally uncertain. Bless up. briefing, PAHO director, Dr. Carissa sector. This has become a necessity, as invited a few of my family members P.S. Fortunately for my credibility, Etienne highlighted three main it will determine whether there is a and friends to kick a little football on during a brief meeting with the KREM takeaways that could be extracted from speedy recovery from the impacts of our land. I think they had fun. I’m not Radio general manager, Michael Hyde, the global pandemic. the pandemic or a slow one. sure how all this is going to work out. I on Monday morning, I showed him the Effective leadership is of utmost It was stressed that more dialogue will need partners. I think the space first draft of the above column, a draft importance. Through strategic thinking needs to take place about how to reduce would be a healthy space for young which had been proofread by myself and extensive COVID-19 management the vulnerability of Latin America and people crowded together in the old on Sunday morning and sent by our planning, the effects of the pandemic the Caribbean and how to ensure that capital and other places. Free up. I editor to Marisol for translation. Mike can be reduced. “We have seen there is an adequate supply of personal suppose we’re thinking post-COVID. pointed out to me, and he confirmed courageous leaders coordinate an protective equipment and medication, as In closing, I will say that I am a little after checking with our engineer, J. C. effective response based on evidence well as effective leadership, and a more intimidated by where I am in this Arzu, that the LOVE FM tower is 500- and science that has changed the course focused approach in bettering primary project, because I saw two great feet high, whereas the KREM Radio of the pandemic in many settings”, said healthcare in these regions. Also, more Belizeans, our national heroes in fact, tower is only 300-feet high. From the Etienne. “But we’ve also seen the collaboration is needed among countries make bad mistakes when they were my KREM property, it had appeared to my opposite, with the virus thriving in Latin America and the Caribbean in age, or a little older. Mr. Price gave naked eye that the slimmer KREM whenever there is a vacuum in decision order to strengthen the capacity that control of BTL to Lord Ashcroft in June tower was taller than the robust LOVE making, which exposes the faults of our developing countries have to not only of 1993, and Mr. Goldson messed up tower, and that is the opinion I had systems,” she said. obtain but produce essential healthcare bad with permanent residency in 1995. expressed in the seventh paragraph of Additionally, the process of products. I am not sure of where I am, to repeat, my column. I was very wrong. Tuesday, March 23, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 11 A climate-resilient future By HE Mr Bruce Lendon, Australia’s High Commissioner to the Caribbean

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Photographer: W. Stewart, Copyright: Commonwealth of Australia (GBRMPA).

As Australians celebrated our national day – Australia Day – on 26 January climate change and disaster resilience. this year, we reflected on the year past. 2020 tested the strength of our We are joining the Call for Action on Raising Ambition for Climate fellow communities, and the resilience of our countries. Adaptation and Resilience, to encourage greater ambition, finance and It was a year dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic, but for Australians it coordination to protect against growing climate risks. started with the most devastating bushfires in our history. And Australia has joined the Coalition for Climate Resilience Investment, Nations near and far offered Australia assistance, and people around the which aims to shift private investment towards climate resilient infrastructure world raised funds to help us recover and rebuild. We were heartened by and support vulnerable communities to attract private sector investment. the messages of condolence and support we received from our Caribbean Of course, adaptation action must go hand in hand with reducing friends. emissions.We remain resolutely committed to the Paris Agreement and are As with COVID-19, Australia’s bushfires demonstrated the importance of on track to meet and beat our 2030 target, having reduced emissions by marshalling collective will, innovation, resources and leadership to almost 17 per cent since 2005.Our emissions have fallen faster than many overcome our most pressing challenges. other advanced economies or the OECD average. The Climate Adaptation Summit hosted by the Netherlands on 25 and 26 Australians are also building and investing in renewables at world-leading January this year was a timely opportunity for the international community, rates.Almost one in four Australian homes now have solar—the highest including Australia and countries of the Caribbean, to work together towards uptake in the world—and we expect renewables will contribute at least 50 a more climate-resilient future. per cent of our electricity by 2030. At the summit, Australia reaffirmed our commitment to ambitious and Australia is aiming to reach net zero emissions as soon as possible.The practical action to combat the impacts of climate change at home, in our need to get to net zero is not in dispute—the global community needs to region, and around the world. focus on ‘how’. As the driest inhabited continent in the world, Australia has committed over Australia is aiming to leverage AUD70 billion of new investment in low AUD15 billion to make our natural resources, environment and water emissions technologies by 2030. infrastructure more resilient to drought and climate disasters. We’re focused on accelerating technologies like hydrogen, carbon capture We are spending more than AUD2 billion on bushfire recovery efforts, use and storage, soil carbon, energy storage to backup renewables and supporting local communities to design their own economic, social and decarbonise transport, and low or zero emissions steel and aluminium.Our environmental recovery.This includes the important job of regenerating goal is to get the cost of deploying these new technologies to parity with habitats, helping native animals recover and building knowledge for better existing, higher-emitting alternatives. land management. As the world recovers from the economic impact of COVID-19, we need Australia also recognises that climate change is the biggest long-term threat investments that can both accelerate emissions reductions and support jobs to the health of coral reefs worldwide, including those in the Great Barrier and communities. Reef, one of Australia’s national icons. And emission reductions need to occur across all economies – it won’t be We’ve committed AUD2.7 billion to the effective management and protection enough to encourage reductions in emissions amongst developed and of the Great Barrier Reef to support the implementation of the Reef 2050 advanced economies alone. Plan. That’s why we need to reduce emissions in a sustainable and commercially We’ve also launched theAUD150 million Reef Restoration and Adaptation viable way that generates jobs in all economies. Program that brings together world leading marine science to research Whether in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, or tackling the ongoing strategies that can help reefs recover from bleaching events and to adapt to challenge posed by climate change, we need to embrace innovation and changing ocean temperatures. strengthen global partnerships. While our adaptation and resilience work starts at home, Australia is also Our scientists tell us that, even with the most ambitious global emissions committed to supporting neighbouring and global communities to tackle reductions, we will still need to adapt to changes in our climate over coming climate change. decades.Practical actions that help us adapt to those changes and strengthen Australia has pledged at least AUD1.5 billion over the period 2020 to 2025 the resilience of our local environments are critical. for global climate finance. AUD500 million of this funding will directly Australia looks forward to working hand-in-hand with the help our Pacific neighbours deploy renewable energy, and improve their Caribbean.Together, we will make a difference. Page 12 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, March 23, 2021

now. There are 7 numbers out over 1 o’clock on year and more; 17-47-59-68-70-79- Channel 5 85. The eighties series has played live. There some 10 times already; keep your are 23 “Press” Predictions; 28-40-17 eyes open for 48-19-31 and 52, those players on Boledo stats thru 23rd to 30th numbers played 27 times amongst the roster. March, 2021 themselves. The thirties series will Coach In boledo news, 04 finally played be out this week plentifully. Dale by Gilroy “Press” Cadogan after 1 year, 4 months 2 weeks and 2 Remember to read your Psalms: 75- Pelayo, Sr. days. These are my lucky numbers for 63-91. Next week more stats. andJazz and the Phoenix’s Suns are both this week: 28-40-17-59-13-99. assistant playing very well, the Los Angeles These are my lucky jackpot numbers: Coach are 28-14. The Atlanta Hawks and 9715-2932-7602. These are my lucky Marvin Trae Young snapped the Lakers’ 4- PICK-3 numbers: 101-673-978-540- Ottley will game 202. Good luck to all buyers. Some do a very winning doubles are long overdue, there are Belize National Team will shock splendid streak; 5 doubles left to play: 11-22-44-55- Haiti 2 to 1 job in LeBron 99. A lot of low numbers will be out Local football updates Haiti and James had this week. 59 is still out for more over In local football updates, the Belize in Turks & to leave the 1 year 9 months and 3 weeks now, National A Team will play Haiti in Caicos; game with 17 is out for over 1 year and 3 months Haiti this Thursday evening at 5 they will a slight play 2 injury. The games in a Denver 6-day Nuggets span. and the Deon Portland McCaulay and Carlos Bernadez will Trail score for Belize against Haiti, the Blazers are struggling a bit. There are game will be very entertaining and 5 teams that will be fighting for 2 very exciting; Angelo Capelito plays playoff spots down the stretch. Next for Sheffield Untied in the EPL. The week more some predictions, more On Samuel Haynes and Sir defensive line is very strong. Everal stats. Trapp, Ian Gaynair, Deshawon Nembhard and Israel Sutherland, Isaiah Emanuel Morter Woodrow West will be in the goal. The Haitians are very strong and very Dear editor, charter. During the days of the Black fast, they play a lot in the French The reminiscence (From the Star Line Sir Isaiah took a keen League because they talk French. Next FC Barcelona and Lionel Messi Publisher, March 20, 2021) of a interest, bought his shares, told week the results and more will catch up to Atletico Madrid childhood education that lacked others about it, and advertised the predictions on the Turks & Caicos International football results teaching about Marcus Garvey, Isaiah Black Star Line as he went from game. In International football action, in Morter and Lionel Francis brings to to the La Liga, Atletico Madrid still has mind Samuel Haynes. Although Guatemala....He was a great race a 6-point lead on FC Barcelona, and Haynes is recognized as the author patriot.” a 9-point lead on Real Madrid. of the Belize national anthem, there “The new Liberty Hall, which Lionel is much less said about his active role today graces the city of Belize—it Messi still in the Universal Negro Improvement is one of the finest in Central leads in Association. America—has been brought about Joel Embiid will be the MVP goals with Haynes left British Honduras with through the financial assistance of from the Philadelphia 76ers 20, Garvey following the 1922 tour when Sir Isaiah Morter.” NBA results and predictions Kareem Morter hosted Garvey at his home in Morter met Garvey when the two In NBA action, the Philadelphia Benzema Belize. Haynes went to work for the shared the speaker platform during 76ers still have the best record in the has 16 U.N.I.A., holding various positions Garvey’s second visit to the colony, East, Joel Embiid looks like the MVP goals, Luis over the course of several years. before Garvey’s arrest for mail right now, Suarez has Although Haynes and Garvey had a fraud. Morter remained a supporter Ben 17 goals falling out, Haynes was invited back and travelled to New York to give Simmons and Gerard to Liberty Hall in Harlem following support during Garvey’s trial. their guard Moreno the April 8, 1924 death of Morter to Morter appeared on the platform at is the has 16 goals - he plays for Villareal. deliver a eulogy at a special Liberty Hall with Garvey the evening tallest The La Liga has 9 games remaining. memorial service for Morter. before the trial started. There is no point Real Sociedad are in the top 5 best The Negro World published the record that Morter attended the trial, guard in teams right now. In the EPL, the best testimonial of Haynes highlighting but it is difficult to believe that he the league. league in world, Manchester City and Morter’s role in the U.N.I.A. did not attend. The Manager Pep Guardiola will win the For the benefit of Amandala On Morter’s return trip to British Milwaukee EPL easily, they have an 11-point readers, I am sharing several Honduras he was accompanied by Bucks and lead. Manchester United is at the paragraphs of the eulogy published Isabella Lawrence, head of the Black thesecond position, Leicester City and in the April 19, 1924 Negro World: Cross Nurses. Lawrence remained in Brooklyn Chelsea at third and fourth “As a citizen he labored for the Belize for a period of time to organize Nets will be the other 2 teams that respectively, Jamie Vardy is the top good of the community. All the the Black Cross Nurses in the colony will top the East, the Miami Heat and striker for Leicester City, he now has improvements, social, spiritual and and was recognized by the Governor Jimmy Butler will make another run 14 goals. Next week more stats, and political, in the city of Belize can for her work. The local Black Cross like last season. In the West, the Utah some more predictions. trace their starting point to the Nurse chapter was one of the interest shown in those strongest in the entire U.N.I.A. and improvements by the late Sir Isaiah developed a reputation for the quality Emanuel Morter.” of medical care provided. “Sir Isaiah was the first to Visit us at subscribe in order to raise funds to Michael Richardson www.amandala.com.bz bring about the realization of that Cristo Rey, Cayo Tuesday, March 23, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 13 Considerations for Promoting a Regenerative, Organic Agriculture Strategy For the National Hemp and Marijuana Industry Policy of Belize

by H.E. David Gibson enterprises. promoting the benefits of regenerative “Quest for the Right Cultivars”, The generally observed wisdom is agriculture. This natural science- observes that “Hemp is not only far The highly respected and influential that if well-implemented, these derived method of reviving the life in more environmentally friendly, but it organizations Regeneration Belize initiatives can significantly provide the soil – oftentimes depleted by can save the health and pockets of our (RB)1 and Pro-Organic Belize (POB)2 pragmatic diversification in the chemical inputs-- fundamentally relies farmers far more than traditional , and their affiliate members and agricultural sector, and expand its on harnessing the symbiotic benefits agricultural crops, since it requires less organizations engage considerable contribution to economic growth of photosynthesis combined with a water, little if any pesticides, and efforts in Belize to promote sustainable through an adaptive, climate-friendly range of soil regenerative organic eliminates the need for expensive toxic agronomic practices which both protect regeneration strategy and plan of material sources which any farmer can weed killers when used in rotation, and and restore the soil and thus indirectly action. acquire or produce, and apply. hemp will actually clean the soil of improve human health, with Regeneration Belize is the Belize RB accesses the biannual contaminants wherever it is grown.” diminishing reliance on the use of chapter of the international NGO, publication, The Belize Ag Report, for POB expresses science-based synthetic/chemical inputs (both Regeneration International (RI), which dissemination of its articles and is confidence that hemp could be a very fertilisers and pesticides). was formed in June 2015, when some well-established in social media. It has large part of the solution to the Within both organizations, there are 60 participants from 21 nations -- tracked developments in the nascent problems associated with climate ongoing discussions over advocacy entrepreneurs, farmers and scientists, hemp industry and contributed to the change, with compromised soil, water which promotes regenerative representatives of educational national discussion on its potential and air pollution, as well as the agriculture3 as a key element of the institutions, policy-makers and NGOs multiple uses at the Government of economic woes now being agronomic strategy for consideration in —met in Costa Rica to form the Belize’s National Symposium on Hemp experienced due to the vicissitudes of the context of the Government of international movement called held in 2018. the COVID-19 pandemic. Belize’s exploratory initiative through Regeneration International. RI is Pro-Organic Belize Pesticide-Free Ms. Westdyk comments, the Ministry of New Growth Industries, committed to a common goal: to reverse Consumer Group (POBCG) was “Fortunately for us, the world is to assess the feasibility of developing global warming and end world hunger established in 2016 as part of POB’s responding by encouraging farmers to a multiple-use hemp-marijuana (CBD- by facilitating and accelerating the mission to educate, inspire, and grow it after nearly 100 years of THC) industry for Belize. The debate global transition to a “regenerative” encourage farmers regarding the prohibition based on disinformation by is whether there should be agriculture. The mission of benefits and opportunities of a lumping it together with its cousin, diversification along this line any at all. Regeneration Belize, which was sustainable pro-organic system of marijuana.” Placed in perspective, the discussion formed in 2018, is to publicize and agriculture that regenerates the soil, and POB sees the need for a careful within the organizations has highlighted, facilitate information exchange to educate consumers on the health approach to be taken in developing the as it has in the wider society, sharp regarding the benefits of regenerative benefits of pesticide-free produce. national hemp and marijuana industry differences in views —mainly on health systems of agriculture to farmers, Through education and supportive in Belize, noting the difficulties and moral grounds — on whether governmental agencies and services, POB helps farmers and encountered by many states in Belize should stick to a hemp representatives, consumers, like- consumers understand the benefits and attempting to do so. Investment production strategy only, or diversify minded organizations and the public. opportunities in growing and proposals need to be assessed by into the commercialization of the RB’s activities flow from this and consuming organically grown food, experts. It is fortunate that such lucrative, high-yield, medicinal/ concentrate on the regeneration of which involves an essential shift in expertise can be obtained pro bono. A recreational marijuana varieties. ecological health, including soil fertility agriculture from using toxic chemicals pivotal and accessible source of such So, at a fundamental level, RB and and biodiversity through public that compromise the integrity of the expertise is the NGO 613Partners,4 POB consider public and farmer education initiatives and technical environment, our food, our water, our which has expressed its availability to education to be an essential component advisory support to stakeholders, soil, and our health to natural more provide advice on the development of of this initiative in order to generate a including the Ministry of Agriculture’s cost-effective agricultural practices that all aspects of the national hemp and better understanding of the relevant Research and Extension services. promote well-being and sustainability. marijuana industry in Belize. issues involved. They also consider it RB’s overarching objectives POB holds the view that hemp is a Who Should Benefit? essential to generate public promote regenerative systems of viable resource for raw materials that A prudent and practical approach is appreciation for the differences and farming, in principle and in practice, can be incorporated into an estimated necessary on the part of the commonalities between the fibre, food which increase biodiversity, enrich 50,000 commercial products and is Government of Belize in identifying source and other commercialized soils, improve watersheds and enhance now legally grown in over 30 countries contributive sources and inputs for potential uses of hemp, and the derived ecosystem services. Through its around the world. technical assessments, focusing on soil, medicinal therapeutic value of the educational thrust, RB’s activities focus POB Karen Westdyk’s article in seed, and cultivar issues, geographical related Cannabis Sativa plant as viable on all farmers, regardless of size, issue 44 of The Belize Ag Report’s dispersion strategies, a small farmer industry engagement strategy, licensing of famers, quality control, and identification of reliable sources of strategic investment advice. One particular area of interest for possible pilot-targeting is the sugarcane-growing northern districts where cane farmers are being increasingly displaced because of low productivity, quality issues, high input costs, and increasing diseconomies arising from processor-driven intra- industry manipulation. Hemp and marijuana cultivation appear to be the logical, most attractive alternative crop for diversification in the region, which, historically, was a central area for illegal production of marijuana, mostly organically cultivated As it stands, a research-driven adaptive regenerative agriculture strategy already forms an integral part of the effort of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprises to boost agricultural enterprise for improved domestic food security. It can be foreseen how a carefully planned strategy with the Please turn to„Page 16 Page 14 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, March 23, 2021 Hon. Perez might alter gillnet ban, says Oceana

by Kory Leslie (freelance writer) wasted no time in responding to the statements made by the Coalition and BELIZE CITY, Tues. Mar. 16, 2021 by Oceana in a press release of his The Belize Coalition for own dated March 17, 2021. The Sustainable Fisheries alongside release refutes the claims made by Oceana has been waging a relentless Oceana and the Coalition for campaign against the use of gillnets Sustainable Fisheries and states: in the country for years leading up “Minister Perez finds it imperative to the official ban instituted under to inform the nation and all concerned Statutory Instrument 158 of 2020, that the Belize Fishermen which took effect on November 5, Cooperatives Association filed a 2020. It seemed then that the battle lawsuit against the Minister of Blue was over and that all stakeholders Economy on the basis of a decision could rest assured that their efforts made by Omar Figueroa, former had paid off, but the Coalition and Minister of Fisheries. The lawsuit Oceana have found that the illegal landed on the Minister’s desk just a use of gillnets is still occurring. few days after assuming office. In The two entities released a joint response, Minister Perez sought the press release on Tuesday in which legal support of the Attorney they expressed their concern that the General’s Ministry. It was prudent to Minister of the Blue Economy, Hon. receive proper guidance from legal Andre Perez, might find himself in a representatives before engaging in position that forces him to alter the discussions with any interested party. gillnet ban. The release begins by This guidance was especially retracing the arduous efforts of important as Minister Perez, upon Oceana and the Coalition to get the assuming office, was not privy to all ban put in place, which included the details of the process that establishing a task force to examine eventually led to the implementation the issues surrounding the use of nets of SI No. 158 of 2020. The Ministry and to gauge public support for the of Blue Economy is open to having ban, developing recommendations to discussions with the Coalition for phase out gillnets, signing an Sustainable Fisheries and Oceana agreement between both parties and Belize but expresses its the GOB to ban gillnets, and assisting disappointment in the hastily drawn fishers in the transition by providing conclusions and aspersions cast. The alternate incomes and the Ministry expects that both disbursement of $1.5 million to organizations will commit to working gillnet fishers to date in a buy-back with the Ministry to put in place attempt to have them relinquish their proper management, oversight, and illegal nets. programmes to ensure the social Despite these efforts, however, protection of fishers and long-term the Coalition and Oceana have not sustainability of Belize’s aquatic only learned of the continued use of resources.” illegal gillnets, but have been Subsequent to the press release, the unsuccessful in their attempts to vice president of Oceana, Janelle speak with Hon. Andre Perez, who Chanona, as well as the president of has apparently made himself the Belize Game Fishing Association, unavailable to them. This is outlined Andrew Roe, spoke to the media to in their joint release, which makes reaffirm their stance that the hazards the following statement: of gillnet fishing would affect the “The Coalition for Sustainable country at large, and especially the Fishers and Oceana remain steadfast fishermen who had opted to give up in their commitment to meeting with their nets in order to receive the $2 the Minister of the Blue Economy to million payout. When asked for her discuss further steps to address assessment of the Minister’s follow- illegal/unlicensed fishing activity. up press release, Chanona had this To date, notwithstanding several to say: requests, Minister Andre Perez’s “We will only come back to assert schedule has not allowed such a that we have it documented the meeting. We were disappointed to number of times since November that learn this week that the Ministry of we have reached out, particularly on Blue Economy is involved in a gillnets. Again, we are cognizant of spurious lawsuit filed by a third everybody’s schedules, but it has party with a pre-determined been just as similarly pursued to have mediation initiated even prior to the this conversation, because we know, court’s approval to proceed. We are while we have been in the trenches concerned that the Ministry appears on this for some time, we know not to be rapidly moved to substantially everybody knows everything that’s alter Statutory Instrument 158 of been happening at every level. So, 2020, effectively overturning the it’s been very important for us beyond gillnet ban.” documentation, beyond the The release goes on to state that agreements to have a sit down and to both parties have communicated their have that exchange of information so concerns to the Prime Minister, the that we can move forward and Minister of Tourism and the Minister identify the way forward. Because, of the Blue Economy regarding the as you said, those hiccups that have impacts that the reversal of the ban come up was not at the fault of the could have on tourism. NGO community, was not the fault of The Minister of the Blue Economy the fishers.” Tuesday, March 23, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 15 Toxic “old-school” mentalities that are destructive to Belize

doesn’t mean that one is “crazy”. I that we still do not have full gender for young, black women. However, recall hearing stories of Belizeans equality, women should be given full it is good to see more young women being treated with disdain, ignored freedom to make whatever choices nowadays rejecting the deeply or discouraged from seeking help by and be whatever they want in their rooted colonial view that straight even their own family members lives. hair is the only “good hair” and while suffering conditions like This brings me to my next point, embracing their natural hairstyles. anxiety, depression, trauma, stress which is the exclusion of women Belizeans with darker shades of and other disorders. This is from central government, which is complexion like myself are also especially true for men who tend to also archaic. Some still hold “old- sometimes still discriminated cover up feelings and use less school” ideas that politics is a boys against by members of society, effective and harmful means to deal game and women shouldn’t be including the police. As a young with these issues because it is still involved. In the year 2021, women’s black male in Belize City, I could seen as “weak”. We should not be rights should be respected and not remember several occasions in my ashamed or afraid to seek therapy confined based on old- school life when I have been stopped and or other forms of interventions when patriarchal beliefs. If a girl wants questioned by police for no necessary. These are very normal to be educated, be a leader in reasonable cause. In my teenage by Kahlil Enriquez conditions which thousands of different capacities, speak her mind, years, I would naively allow this Belizeans suffer from at some point run for politics, or do whatever she violation of my rights to go As a youth, I have been paying keen in life and need help with. Not pleases, for that matter, she should unquestioned. However, in a more attention to the societal values that starting a conversation about it can be able to without any repercussions. recent incident, I made clear to the we have inherited from the previous cause persons to feel that they are A society shouldn’t place any officers that I know my rights and generation. Certain belief systems suffering alone, when this is far from limitations on any of its citizens but wouldn’t allow them to conduct an and mentalities from previous reality. A progressive shift in rather encourage everyone to reach illegal search of my vehicle with no generations are essential to forming collective mindset is needed to their full potential. As men we can’t reasonable cause because of the a strong moral compass and change the way we view mental feel threatened by the empowerment color of my skin. foundation of values in our Belizean health and the stigma surrounding it. of women, and if anyone does, I Political tribalism is also a society. However, as someone who Many Belizeans are so ashamed to would suggest taking steps to further destructive practice passed down considers himself to have an open tell others that they are having a hard empower yourself rather than trying through several generations. Many mind and more progressive mindset, time and subsequently hide their to keep an entire gender down. Belizeans blindly support a political I believe that some “old school” feelings, which I believe is a Women bring equal and unique party for their entire lives regardless beliefs or mentalities still widely destructive way to live. Help is skillsets to the table and should be of candidates, competence of the held in Belize can be quite limiting available, and sometimes given more opportunities at the party or wrongdoings of the party. It and toxic to certain members of interventions such as therapy, a policy-making level to help develop is not uncommon to hear that persons society or society on a whole. In my support network, certain our nation. will vote for a particular party view, a society’s state of supplements, mindfulness-based Another point I would like to because “their granny da PUP or development is not only measured practices or talking to someone can make is that in Belize, in some UDP so they da PUP or UDP”. While quantitatively through economic and help tremendously. Persons need to segments of society, there exists a there is nothing wrong with financial metrics but also do whatever is needed for their own culture of hypermasculinity: Men/ supporting your party of choice, qualitatively by the level of wellbeing and look after their mental boys shouldn’t show emotions, and many Belizeans are so divided along consciousness, open-mindedness and health rather than being scared to do must always be macho and strong. party lines that they tolerate and mental dispositions of its citizens. so because of the opinions of others. This is destructive, because many defend anything their party does. Furthermore, many times persons When we show others it is not a big boys learn to repress emotions and This, I believe, is destructive for who have views and values that are deal to openly discuss mental health, internalize pain. Pain and trauma are national development. We should be different from those of mainstream then we begin to normalize having stored within boys and men, and if able to unite and put the country’s society, if not strong enough, find it open discussions about it. As a they do not know how to properly interests first regardless of political difficult to be true to themselves and country, I think we can do a lot better release it or express it, this often affiliation in order to hold those in their values for fear of judgement and in regards to the resources and leads to and manifests itself through power accountable. As a society we criticism. This is stifling for freedom attention given to help the many toxic or self-destructive behaviors. play the blame game too much in the of self-expression and encourages Belizeans who suffer both openly In certain segments of society it political arena. We are quick to conformity. I believe it takes a and silently. would seem that the only socially point fingers at the other party’s certain level of strength for There is also the pressure among acceptable way for many boys and wrongdoings but unwilling to point individuals to express thoughts and young women who choose to forego men to express these painful emtions fingers at our own party as well and behaviors outside the mainstream having children at an early age. In without coming off as weak is hold them accountable. This division and to not conform to limiting, Belize it is quite common for young through negative outlets such as among party lines makes it easy for sometimes “narrow-minded” women to start having children early. crime, domestic abuse and violence, the population to be divided and beliefs. When persons are exposed The fertility window is a valid for example. Through our social controlled. National interests should to different environments and argument as to why this happens and institutions, such as in the family, the come before party interests, but schools of thought, this helps to shift had happened in many previous media, and the schools, we need to many Belizeans are afraid to lose the their mentality so that they can see generations. The problem arises teach our boys the life skills for benefits or quid pro quo they get or things from a different angle. Persons when persons look down on young dealing with and channeling negative may get from these major parties. who are socialized in an environment women for choosing to delay emotions and not expressing them in These are just a few of the many and don’t have much exposure to pregnancy for a few years in a way that harms others. This, I toxic old-school mentalities that other viewpoints can be stuck with exchange for the pursuit of further believe, is true strength, rather than exist in Belize. As a nation we limited viewpoints for life and judge education, a more stable financial being reactive to every situation. should be aware of how harmful others who don’t hold the same value situation or other personal choices. Brainwashed colonial mentalities these mentalities can be and strive system. I will give several examples “Old school” mentalities make some which reflect the view that lighter- to do better. I believe a first step of toxic mindsets that are deeply of these women feel immense skinned Belizeans with straighter towards moving away from those embedded in our society and pressure and even “less than a hair are more attractive or appear limiting beliefs is to recognize them pervasive in our culture and social woman” because they have a more more professional are still prevalent for what they are. This is why I try fabric. progressive mindset in regards to in Belize. This is evident in a recent to share knowledge and opinions In previous days, and even today, childbearing. We are living in incident which drew national for those who may also find truth in many Belizeans still believe that different times from those of the the attention, when a work superior had them or to get others to see things there is stigma surrounding the topic previous generation and the one the audacity to tell a young lady that from a different perspective. of mental health. For many, even before that. In 2021 women no her own natural hair was not Sometimes we do not realize certain speaking about mental distress is longer have to play the same roles professional and should not be mentalities and characteristics are seen as “taboo”. The reality is that that they previously played in earlier displayed at her workplace. destructive unless it is brought to our mental distress is very normal and times. Even though most would agree Furthermore, comments such as attention. If we begin to open our “picky head” or demeaning minds and our hearts, if we begin to comments about complexion and recognize and move away from Visit us at hair texture are all rooted in the destructive habits and mentalities, www.amandala.com.bz history of racism and ignorance. we would create a more harmonious This often leads to self-esteem issues society. Page 16 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, March 23, 2021

Lake Garden, una comunidad que transmisión FM, y KREM recibió El domingo pasado por la tarde, bien. Tomaré consuelo entonces, en es una creación del finado topógrafo algunas cosas viejas de la era AM finalmente invité a algunos de mis este momento, de la pura estética. Henry Flowers, un contemporáneo de Radio Belize, porque creí que la familiares y amigos a jugar un poco Me siento bien, pero algo inseguro. de topógrafos como el finado James reunión era una emboscada, basado de fútbol en nuestra tierra. Creo que Bendiciones. V. Hyde, se encuentra al otro lado en lo que había visto suceder en el se divirtieron. No estoy seguro de PDAfortunadamente para mi de Lord’s Bank a lo largo de la las primeras tres semanas de cómo va a funcionar todo esto. credibilidad, durante una breve carretera Philip Goldson. Cuando existencia de KREM, lo que había Necesitaré socios. Creo que el reunión con el gerente general de uno va saliendo de Lord’s Bank y visto suceder en febrero de 1993, y espacio sería un espacio saludable Radio KREM, Michael Hyde, el se dirije hacia el norte en la posteriormente. A la reunión de para los jóvenes apiñados en la lunes por la mañana, le mostré el carretera, gira a la derecha y sigue desinversión asistieron Mose Hyde antigua capital y otros lugares. Ay primer borrador de la columna una calle muy transitada durante y Michael Hyde, en representación que liberarse. Supongo que estamos anterior, un borrador que había sido aproximadamente media milla, y de KREM. pensando en post-COVID. revisado por mí mismo el domingo llegará a un área donde se verán tres Temprano en la historia de Para terminar , diré que estoy un por la mañana y enviado por nuestro torres en propiedades separadas. Radio KREM, tuve que tomar una poco intimidado por el lugar en el editor a Marisol para su traducción. Una de estas torres es propiedad de decisión. ¿Me involucraría en la que me encuentro en este proyecto, Mike me señaló, y verificó con BTL o Digi o como se llamen. construcción y el crecimiento de porque vi a dos grandes beliceños, nuestro ingeniero, J. C. Arzu, que la Otra torre es la torre de Radio KREM, o me quedaría nuestros héroes nacionales de hecho, torre LOVE FM tiene 500 pies de transmisión LOVE FM, y está al lado en Amandala y me aseguraría de que cometiendo errores graves cuando altura, mientras que la torre de de un edificio de cemento y hierro se pagaran las facturas de KREM? tenían mi edad, o un poco más. El Radio KREM tiene solo 300 pies bastante más grande, también En 1989, Amandala estaba en su Sr. Price cedió el control de BTL a de altura. Desde la propiedad propiedad de LOVE FM. LOVE FM mejor momento y podía subsidiar a Lord Ashcroft en junio de 1993, y KREM, me había parecido, a simple también tiene un edificio más KREM, lo cual hicimos. Me quedé Goldson se equivocó con la vista, que la más delgada torre pequeño en su terreno. Cuando en Amandala. residencia permanente en 1995. No KREM era más alta que la robusta Radio Belize o Friends FM o la El fenomenal ascenso de los estoy seguro de dónde estoy, repito, torre LOVE, y esa es la opinión que Broadcasting Corporation of Belize, Kremandala Raiders, subcampeones pero todos los que lo ven están de había expresado en el séptimo o como se llamaban a sí mismos, de baloncesto semiprofesional en acuerdo en que los 7 acres en Lake párrafo de mi columna. Estaba muy estaban siendo vendidos en 1999 1992 y campeones de 1993 a 1996, Garden de la torre KREM se ven equivocado. (esta era la era de la privatización), fue de gran beneficio para Radio le dieron la torre FM, los edificios KREM, y viceversa. Esta es otra FM y el terreno a la corporación de historia para otro momento. De Considerations for Promoting a René Villanueva, esencialmente todos modos, el punto es que KREM convirtiendo a René en un sobrevivió gracias al apoyo masivo Regenerative, Organic multimillonario. René ahora posee de la base. tres estaciones de radio y una La tercera torre en el área de Agriculture Strategy... estación de televisión. Su LOVE FM Lake Garden, que es un área es la única estación de radio en residencial relativamente exclusiva, Continued from Page 13 dynamics and in applying best practice Belize con señal nacional. A cargo es la torre de Radio KREM, que „ lessons learned from other regional de la desinversión de 1999 estaba solía ser la torre de transmisión de requisite level of field research and markets that are already engaged in the Godfrey Smith, un abogado que era AM para Radio Belize. Es más alta extension services can contribute to enterprise. un alto funcionario del gobernante que la torre de LOVE FM, pero northern region diversification into new • Learning from the experience of Partido Unido del Pueblo (PUP) en técnicamente bastante inferior. (En areas of enterprise other regional and tropical lowland ese momento. algún momento de la década de Consistent with this policy, RB- producers with particular regard to the Antes de llegar a estas tres 1970, creo, el gobierno PUP de POB have engaged in credible establishing and maintenance of propiedades/torres antes Belize tomó la decisión de actualizar initiatives to mobilize a critical mass internationally recognized and accepted mencionadas, a su izquierda pasarán la transmisión de AM a FM. Las of effort required to embed regenerative standards in all phases of seed and una enorme finca, la más grande en señales de radio AM viajan más and organic agriculture as the cultivar selection, cultivation, una zona donde hay edificios y lejos que las señales de FM, pero appropriate agronomic framework for processing and marketing. propiedades muy caras. Ese FM brinda una mayor calidad para agricultural enterprise development in It is the generally held view that patrimonio es propiedad del Dr. la transmisión de música). Belize. These laudable initiatives adherence to these formative René Villanueva, quien era un De todos modos, la torre de should be nurtured and sustained considerations will provide the ordinario funcionario público antes Radio KREM se encuentra en 7 Also noteworthy is that RB-POB are Government of Belize with sound basis de que la fortuna comenzara a acres de tierra en una zona mindful of some oof the key points to for formulating its policy, strategy and sonreírle en febrero de 1993, unos residencial exclusiva, pero nuestra be kept in view by the Government of plan of action for developing a national meses antes de que las elecciones tierra, al oeste de la granja Belize in the process of policy review: hemp and marijuana industry as a pillar generales del 30 de junio de 1993 camaronera de Captain Hook, estaba • Recognizing the need for strategic of national economic recovery and sacaran al PUP del poder y lo llena de arbustos, hierba y árboles investment advice and help for all growth. reemplazaran con el Partido silvestres. Hace aproximadamente levels of agri- businesses and David Gibson CSSPAR Demócrata Unido (United dos años, comencé a remodelar el processing enterprises from their early March 2021 Democratic Party, UDP). La fortuna pequeño edificio de madera que start up phases -- from compliance to le sonrió a René, quien era el sirve como hogar de nuestro understanding global market trends to funcionario público a cargo de transmisor de transmisión y también supplying the right genetics for specific (Endnotes) Radio Belize/BCB en ese momento, como dormitorio para nuestro climate conditions. porque el PUP tenía que encontrar personal de seguridad. Una cosa • Recognizing the important role for 1 una manera de detener a Radio llevó a la otra. Visitar esos 7 acres a small farmer engagement strategy https://www.arc2020.eu/ KREM. El PUP tenía que detener el era muy terapéutico para mí, ya que which incentivizes hassle-free entry comparing-organic-agroecological- ascenso de KREM, porque cuando era un espacio abierto y ventoso opportunities for the poorest of the and-regenerative-farming-part-3- nos dieron la licencia en 1989, le donde mi mente experimentaba poor while promoting the efficiency and regenerative/ habían prometido a la estructura de relajación y comodidad. Comencé benefits of cooperative ventures. 2 poder de Belize que financió la a trabajar en la limpieza de la tierra • Emphasizing the importance of https://www.pro-organicbelize.org/ campaña electoral general de 1989 (o la supervición de la limpieza de having a strong regulatory framework 3 del PUP, que KREM fracasaría la tierra), la mayoría de las tardes managed by competent public https://www.leafly.com/news/ rápidamente. En cambio, KREM durante semana tal vez a lo largo de professionals and knowledgeable industry/why-cannabis-farmers- sobrevivió. dos años. Creo que en mi mente cannabis regulators who understand the should-look-at-regenerative- No asistí a la reunión de estaba viendo cómo solía verse el criticality of all phases of the process agriculture desinversión cuando RSV recibió Recinto MCC, cuando éramos • Sourcing sound technical advice 4 los bienes: el moderno equipo de jóvenes. in understanding cannabis regulatory https://www.613partners.com/ Tuesday, March 23, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 17 Haitian gang intimidates Jaguars (From page 1) Prince, the capital of Haiti. the favorite in this one. Next week Tuesday, March 30, in Our next game should be against what should have been a home game (#149 W, #16 C) Nicaragua in for Belize, the Jaguars will host Turks Nicaragua on June 4; and Belize & Caicos Islands at the Estadio hosts (#175 W, #24 C) St. Lucia on Panamericano in San Cristobal, June 8. Dominican Republic. Turks & Caicos Against the odds or not on are currently at #203 in the World and Thursday, Go Jaguars! Le’s go, #32 in Concacaf, so Belize should be Belize!! Minor charged for the murder of Percival Pilgrim

BELIZE CITY, Fri. Mar. 19, 2021 remanded to the Belize Central Prison A minor, 16, has been arrested and for the indictable offense, but a family charged for the daylight murder of member of his has since told local Percival Pilgrim which took place on media that the police nabbed the Tuesday afternoon. Pilgrim, 24, was wrong man. BELIZE CITY, Mon. Mar. 22, 2021 release on the Jaguars elsewhere in shot as he headed toward the His aunt told 7News that her nephew The full contingent of the Belize this issue.) Lakeview area along with a teenage was at home at the time of the shooting National “A” Team delegation left Belize has been placed in Group boy, who was also injured. and that a short while after the police the Philip Goldson International E for the CONCACAF World Cup Reports are that they were finished processing the murder scene, Airport shortly after noon yesterday, 2022 Qualifiers along with approached by two men, one of whom they went to her mother’s residence to Sunday, en route to Port Au Prince, Haiti, Turks & Caicos Islands, inflicted the fatal injury to Pilgrim. detain her nephew. Haiti through Miami via American Nicaragua, and Saint Lucia. The teenager who was with him was She said that following a previous Airlines. Belize, currently ranked at #170 in grazed on his right arm during the incident, her nephew had distanced The Belize Jaguars are today FIFA World Ranking and #23 on the shooting. himself from the Ghost Town Gang relaxing safely in their hotel, despite 35 countries in Concacaf, is a definite Pilgrim was rushed to the Karl after being allegedly “snitched on” reports of some unsettling underdog in our first game against Heusner Memorial Hospital and jailed for murder. Since his interruptions in their bus ride to their hosts, Haiti, who are currently at #84 (KHMH), where he passed away in release, he was not associated with hotel yesterday, a suspected spinoff in the World and #10 in Concacaf. the early hours of Wednesday the members of the gang in that area. of political turmoil in Haiti in Haiti hosts Belize on Thursday, morning after undergoing surgery. According to his aunt, various advance of elections which are due March 25, at 2:00 p.m. Belize time The minor who is believed to have witnesses can attest to the innocence later this year. (See FFB press at the Stade Sylvio Cator in Port Au carried out the shooting will be of her nephew.

STATUTORY NOTICE STATUTORY NOTICE TO CREDITORS TO CREDITORS

IN THE ESTATE of ALEXANDER SERGEEVICH IN THE ESTATE of CHIEN-JUNG, HUANG a.k.a. PAUL HUANG, MARKELOV,deceased ofProfsoyuznaya Street, Bldg. 98-3, Apt. 44, deceased of11F, No. 312, Sec. 1, Wunsin S. 5th Rd, Neighborhood 21, Moscow City, Russian Federation. Fongle Village, Nantun District, Taichung City, , R.O.C.

NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to Section 36 of the NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to Section 36 of the Administration of Estates Act, Chapter 197 of the Laws of Belize that Administration of Estates Act, Chapter 197 of the Laws of Belize that all all creditors and other persons having any claims and demands upon creditors and other persons having any claims and demands upon or or against the Estate ALEXANDER SERGEEVICH MARKELOV, against the Estate of CHIEN-JUNG, HUANG a.k.a. PAUL HUANG, deceased deceased of Profsoyuznaya Street, Bldg. 98-3, Apt. 44, Moscow City, of 11F, No. 312, Sec. 1, Wunsin S. 5th Rd, Neighborhood 21, Fongle Village, Russian Federation who died on the 9thday of January, 2018and in Nantun District, Taichung City, Taiwan, R.O.C.who died on the 21st day whose estate Grant of Administration has been granted to BA of July, 2017and in whose estate Grant of Administration has been NOMINEE SERVICES LTD. of 3 ½ Miles Philip Goldson Highway, granted to BA NOMINEE SERVICES LTD. of 3 ½ Miles Philip Goldson Belize City, Belize ANDMAHOGANY MANAGEMENT LTD. ofCor. Highway, Belize City, Belize ANDMAHOGANY MANAGEMENT Hutson & Eyre Street, Blake Building, Suite 302, Belize City, Belize LTD.ofCor. Hutson & Eyre Street, Blake Building, Suite 302, Belize City, the Lawful Attorneys ofNATALIA ANDREEVNA MARKELOVA of Belize the Lawful Attorneys ofLIHONG ZHA of No. 202, Unit 03, Building Profsoyuznaya Street, Bldg. 98-3, Apt. 44, Moscow City, Russian 57, Hongdu District 8, Qingyunpu District, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, Federation,should lodge claims or demands with the said BA China,should lodge claims or demands with the said BA NOMINEE NOMINEE SERVICES LTD.ANDMAHOGANY MANAGEMENT LTD. SERVICES LTD.ANDMAHOGANY MANAGEMENT LTD. c/o c/o Balderamos Arthurs LLP, Charter House, Suite 6, 3 ½ Miles Balderamos Arthurs LLP, Charter House, Suite 6, 3 ½ Miles Philip Philip Goldson Highway, P.O Box 486, Belize City, Belize on or Goldson Highway, P.O Box 486, Belize City, Belize on or before the before the expiration of three months from the first publication expiration of three months from the first publication hereof AND NOTICE hereof AND NOTICE IS ALSO HEREBY GIVEN that at the expiration IS ALSO HEREBY GIVEN that at the expiration of the said three months of the said three months the said BA NOMINEE SERVICES the said BA NOMINEE SERVICES LTD.ANDMAHOGANY LTD.ANDMAHOGANY MANAGEMENT LTD.shall proceed to MANAGEMENT LTD.shall proceed to distribute the assets of the said distribute the assets of the said ALEXANDER SERGEEVICH CHIEN-JUNG, HUANG a.k.a. PAUL HUANG, deceased, amongst the MARKELOV, deceased, amongst the beneficiaries entitled thereto, beneficiaries entitled thereto, having regard only to claims and demands having regard only to claims and demands of whichit shall then have of whichit shall then have had notice. had notice. DATED this22nd day ofMarch, 2021 DATED this22nd day of March, 2021 ______BALDERAMOS ARTHURS LLP BALDERAMOS ARTHURS LLP Attorneys-at-Law for the Estate of Attorneys-at-Law for the Estate of CHIEN-JUNG, HUANG a.k.a. PAUL HUANG ALEXANDER SERGEEVICH MARKELOV Page 18 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, March 23, 2021 Patrick Faber gets the jab Premium gas up by $1.24 (From page 1) Continued from Page 1 can get the vaccine,” Hon. Faber said. Ñ He remarked that it is his view that BELIZE CITY, Mon. Mar. 22, 2021 gas prices jump from $10.40 to $11.64. requested to take the vaccine as the the benefits of taking the vaccines On Monday the government of This increase, which is occurring on Leader of the Opposition to bolster outweigh the known risks associated Belize announced another increase in the heels of a number of recent public confidence in the jab, he is also, with it. fuel pump prices. This time, the price increases in the prices of regular gas by profession, a teacher, which is one “While I’m not a medical doctor, I of premium gasoline has been increased and diesel fuel, is expected to go into of the groups which are scheduled to looked at how many deaths that they by $1.24. effect on Tuesday, March 23, 2021. receive vaccinations in part A of phase have actually...well, the facts will show Consumers will thus see premium A release from the government of two. you that even those deaths that they think Belize states, “The prices for regular “It’s about encouraging those who are related may not be related to them. can’t be picky about what type of gasoline, kerosene, and diesel will are at this time able and qualify to get So the benefits of vaccinating this vaccine we use, given the fact that most remain unchanged at $10.92, $6.75, and the vaccine to come and get the vaccine significant amount of our population, if of it are donated, I think this is the best $10.15 per gallon, respectively.” because, of course, the ultimate goal is not all, far outweigh any kinds of issues way forward and so I encourage people It must be noted that this is the largest to vaccinate every single Belizean who that they are having. And for us who to come.” single increase to fuel prices recently. KREM Television Program Guide

Questions or comments may be forwarded via email to [email protected] Phone: 202-5848 Tuesday, March 23 to Wednesday, March 31, 2021

TUESDAY 8:00 p.m. Belizean Legend: Talita Long 6:30 a.m. Wake Up Belize Morning Vibes (LIVE) 9:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (repeat) 9:00 a.m. Morning Stew (LIVE) 12:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (repeat) SATURDAY 1:00 p.m. News Broadcast: Democracy Now 9:00 a.m. Documentary: Future of Weed 2:00 p.m. Movie: Race 10:43 p.m. Movie: Honey, I Shrunk The Kids 3:30 p.m. Wake Up Belize Morning Vibes (repeat) 11:17 p.m. Documentary: This World Child Slavery 6:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (LIVE) 12:33 p.m. Documentary: 8 Centuries of Muslims in America 7:00 p.m. News Broadcast: Democracy Now 2:14 p.m. Movie: Revenge of the Bridesmaids 8:00 p.m. Belizean Legend: Lorna Smith 4:57 p.m. Movie: I’m in Love With a Church Girl 9:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (repeat) 5:57 p.m. Documentary: The Lost Civilisation 6:48 p.m. Movie: Will to Love WEDNESDAY 8:00 p.m. Music Videos 6:30 a.m. Wake Up Belize Morning Vibes (LIVE) 9:00 a.m. Morning Stew (LIVE) SUNDAY 12:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (repeat) 10:30 a.m. Sunday Review (LIVE) 1:00 p.m. News Broadcast: Democracy Now 12:00 p.m. Movie: The Great Debaters 2:00 p.m. Documentary: War Of Insects 2:06 p.m. Documentary: Best Ocean Life 3:30 p.m. Wake Up Belize Morning Vibes (repeat) 2:57 p.m. Movie: Nappily ever after 6:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (LIVE) 4:36 p.m. Documentary: Diving With The Dinosaur Fish 7:00 p.m. Belizean Music Videos 5:30 p.m. Sunday Review (repeat) 7:30 p.m. Local Programing: You Da The Law 7:00 p.m. Sunday Jazz 9:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (repeat) 8:00 p.m. Music Videos

THURSDAY MONDAY 6:30 a.m. Wake Up Belize Morning Vibes (LIVE) 6:30 a.m. Wake Up Belize Morning Vibes (LIVE) 9:00 a.m. Morning Stew (LIVE) 9:00 a.m. Morning Stew (LIVE) 12:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (repeat) 12:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (repeat) 1:00 p.m. News Broadcast: Democracy Now 1:00 p.m. News Broadcast: Democracy Now 2:00 p.m. Movie: Love At First Glance 2:00 p.m. Movie: Harriet 3:30 p.m. Wake Up Belize Morning Vibes (repeat) 3:30 p.m. Wake Up Belize Morning Vibes (repeat) 6:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (LIVE) 6:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (LIVE) 7:00 p.m. News Broadcast: Democracy Now 7:00 p.m. News Broadcast: Democracy Now 8:00 p.m. Belizean Legend: Bredda David 8:00 p.m. Documentary: Children In Prison For Life 9:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (repeat) 9:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (repeat)

THURSDAY TUESDAY 6:30 a.m. Wake Up Belize Morning Vibes (LIVE) 6:30 a.m. Wake Up Belize Morning Vibes (LIVE) 9:00 a.m. Morning Stew (LIVE) 9:00 a.m. Morning Stew (LIVE) 12:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (repeat) 12:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (repeat) 1:00 p.m. News Broadcast: Democracy Now 1:00 p.m. News Broadcast: Democracy Now 2:00 p.m. Movie: Love At First Glance 2:00 p.m. Movie: The Jackie Robinson Story 3:30 p.m. Wake Up Belize Morning Vibes (repeat) 3:30 p.m. Wake Up Belize Morning Vibes (repeat) 6:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (LIVE) 6:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (LIVE) 7:00 p.m. News Broadcast: Democracy Now 7:00 p.m. News Broadcast: Democracy Now 8:00 p.m. Belizean Legend: Bredda David 8:00 p.m. Documentary: Dr. Ivan Van Sertima African 9:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (repeat) 9:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (repeat)

FRIDAY WEDNESDAY 6:30 a.m. Wake Up Belize Morning Vibes (LIVE) 6:30 a.m. Wake Up Belize Morning Vibes (LIVE) 9:00 a.m. Morning Stew (LIVE) 9:00 a.m. Morning Stew (LIVE) 12:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (repeat) 12:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (repeat) 1:00 p.m. News Broadcast: Democracy Now 1:00 p.m. News Broadcast: Democracy Now 2:00 p.m. Documentary: Chinese Migration to the Caribbean 2:00 p.m. Movie: Thornwell 3:30 p.m. Wake Up Belize Morning Vibes (repeat) 3:30 p.m. Wake Up Belize Morning Vibes (repeat) 6:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (LIVE) 6:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (LIVE) 7:00 p.m. News Broadcast: Democracy Now 7:30 p.m. Local Programing: You Da The Law 9:00 p.m. Krem TV Evening News (repeat) Tuesday, March 23, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 19 Belize Zoo’s Sharon Matola passes Auditor PSU holds General fires solidarity back at PSU motorcades president (From page 1) BELIZE, Fri. Mar. 19, 2021 Continued from ÑPage 1 To express support of the stance of the Joint Union Negotiation Team in president of the Association of Public response to Government’s proposed Service Senior Managers (APSSM) salary cuts, the membership of the recently and none of the discontent that Public Service Union (PSU) staged a the unions are currently voicing in regard lunch-time motorcade across the to her execution of her duties, were ever various municipalities in Belize. expressed to her. “It was a solidarity motorcade, and “As late as last week Wednesday, I it was done primarily to bring us was in a meeting with the APSSM and together and to get a feel for where we never...at least the President never we are in response to how our made any revelations as to this kind of members feel about the current attack against any public officer for that proposal, and it also reflects their Continued from ÑPage 1 Briceño said after learning of Matola’s matter. So where it is coming from, death. clearly there has been an old issue, one support to the Joint Negotiation Team of our exquisite Belize Zoo. About “Sharon, you inspired my kids and that is currently in consultations with that I guess has not been addressed to st thirty-eight years ago, Sharon Matola had a profound impact on their their satisfaction, and it would appear government.” 1 Vice-President of the took on the herculean task of creating environmental consciousness. I’m that their satisfaction would mean my PSU, Dean Flowers explained. the Belize Zoo 29 miles off a beaten certain you did the same for countless not being in that office.” Bradley Since the public service and the path on the then Western Highway. Belizean children,” Dr. Omar Figueroa, shared. government are in no trade dispute at The rest is history. former Minister of State in the Ministry During the interview, she shared, this time, public service employees Matola devoted her life to the of Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry, the “When I reviewed what was said, I are forced to show their support development of the Belize Zoo and the Environment, Sustainable realized that from the onset, this had to outside work hours. This is the reason protection of wildlife across the Development and Climate Change, be from an ongoing, an old issue that for the mid-day motorcade protest. country of Belize. Her work as an remarked. we’ve had in the office over a period Flowers said that they were granted a environmentalist and biologist within The US Embassy in Belize of time. It isn’t the first time, as I’ve permit for a 40-vehicle motorcade and the country opened the eyes of Belizeans commented, “We honor Sharon for her said in the release, that they’ve made that the union membership stayed to the wealth of diverse wildlife our vision and passionate commitment to this attack, and they have also within that limit. country has to offer and has shed a protecting Belize’s precious natural demanded, really demanded, that I be He thanked members who came out beacon of light on the Jewel. treasures. Her legacy will live on in fired.” in support on Friday and called other The Belize Zoo is now the pride and the Belize Zoo and Tropical Education The Auditor General then posited that members to take a stand when they are joy of the country. Visitors from around Center that she founded 38 years ago the allegations against her and the calls called upon. the world travel miles to see the and in the countless lives that she for her removal may not be based fully “For those who didn’t come out, I on an objective assessment of her wildlife that reside within the habitats changed for the better.” want to say to them that this is also for that have been created at the Belize Zoo performance, but may actually be you. This is not the first time or the In a public statement, the Ministry springing from a grievance of a more — animals that have been raised and last time that we’ll call for a solidarity of Education, Culture, Science, and personal nature. She then suggested that loved by Sharon for all these years. Technology said, “Ms. Sharon Matola. call. Despite having on your yellow the antipathy toward her could have shirts you will also need to start hitting On Sunday, the Belize Zoo officially A champion of environmental been brewing for a long time and could the pavement when and if that time announced the passing of its founder, conservation and , be traced back to what occurred in her Sharon Matola. She died at St. Luke’s Ms. Matola was recognizably the office a number of years ago. She then comes,” Flowers said. Hospital in Belmopan earlier that day. driving force behind the establishment described a conflict in her office at that Flowers shared that while they Since the news surfaced on the pages of our world-renowned Belize Zoo. time in which the current Public Service await the government of Belize’s of social media, a wellspring of Her efforts have allowed generations Union president was knee-deep. formal response to their counter- condolences has been constantly of Belizean children the opportunity to She said that the president of the proposal, the union will continue its flowing to the friends and family of explore a stunning array of our PSU, Gerald Henry, who is also a staff “Yellow Fridays” and its solidarity Matola. The news of her death shocked country’s flora and fauna. We lift her member within her office, has had to movement. He also alluded to the nation to its core. up in memory and pray that her family be reprimanded at one time or the other activities in the pipeline organized by “Sharon Matola was a pioneer in and friends be comforted by the by her, and that Henry, along with six the Joint Unions. many regards, from her work bringing outpouring of love and appreciation other staff members who were also the beloved Belize Zoo as we know it from Belizeans at home and abroad.” reprimanded and made to answer to the recommendation. to life, to her work at the Tropical Amandala joins the country in Public Services Commission, formed This is when she revealed the Education Center, teaching care for and mourning the loss of a visionary and an alliance of sorts against her to see shocking allegation against the president conservation of our national treasures. champion for our Belizean wildlife. We her ousted from the office. of the PSU — that he, at one of those You are dearly missed, but your work extend our deepest condolences to the They never got their way, and disciplinary meetings, allegedly made a will continue through those you’ve friends and family of the late Sharon according to Bradley, she has been direct threat on her life. inspired. “ Prime Minister John Matola. May she rest in peace. under constant attack from those “The PSU president, in particular, persons since then. when I took him there, I can recall I “I would say to you that there is a just got enough because he was very Clifford Lorenzo murdered in Belize City group of people within the office; I disrespectful and upon leaving that would say at least 7 persons in the room that day he said that he wanted office...initially they had problems to say something to me and I said that Continued from Page 1 to reports, around 8:10 p.m. on Ñ Saturday, Lorenzo was casually because I stand on principle and I will he was in no position to say anything Belize City resident. The victim, walking in his yard, when an discipline and it is not everybody who to me at that point. When I got up, he Clifford Lorenzo, 26, was killed near unidentified gunman approached him will take lightly to being disciplined, and said that he just wanted me to know that they were planning to pay his residence on Saturday, March 20. and fired several shots, which caused so in all those instances it has been people whom I have always had to somebody to hurt me,” alleged Bradley. Sometime after 8:10 p.m. on that day, severe wounds that claimed his life. discipline for one reason or the other,” She shared that these statements So far, the police have confiscated police responded to a report of a Bradley said. were made on the public record and shooting and went to the area, where four 9mm Aguila expended shells from She noted that the recommendations that she filed a police report after the they found the lifeless body of a Creole the crime scene. Three persons have to discipline the staff members inclusive threat was made on her life. male with apparent gunshot wounds in been detained for this recent murder of the PSU president were submitted During a phone interview with the body. The victim was lying supine, which is believe to stem from an to the Public Service Commission and 7News, Henry, the PSU president, in a pool of his own blood. ongoing rivalry in between gang were looked at and addressed. Since refused to make any direct comments Following a police investigation, the elements within Belize City. The then she has been at odds with those in reference to these revelations, but victim was identified as 26-year-old police continue to follow the leads subordinates who were taken before the asserted that he will be seeing Bradley Clifford Anthony Lorenzo. According relating to this recent homicide.s commission based on her in court. Page 20 AMANDALABelize Tuesday, March 23, 2021