Vol. 23 No. 46 Sunday, November 15, 2020 Page 2 The GuardIan Sunday, November 15, 2020 Potential vaccine against COVID-19 The World’s hope to eventually defeat COVID-19 was raised on Monday by the announcement of a potential breakthrough in a vaccine candidate. Pharmaceutical giant Pfizer has announced that its COVID-19 vaccine successfully prevented 90% of infections compared to a placebo, a more positive result than experts expected. The analysis is based on 94 cases of infection with SARS- CoV-2, the virus that causes Vaccine COVID-19, among both the represent results collected seven victory not only for public health vaccinated and placebo groups. days after the second of Pfizer’s but for science as well. The Experts had set a minimum two-shot regimen. companies’ vaccine is based threshold of 60% effectiveness Pfizer, which developed and on a new technology that relies for vaccines to be considered tested its vaccine with German on a genetic material known for emergency authorization or company BioNTech, said in as mRNA. No mRNA-based approval. The company’s trial a release that it will continue vaccines have received approval seven days after the second dose. included data from 38,955 of following people in the study from the FDA yet, although Pfizer believes it will be able to the total 43,538 volunteers who for a couple more weeks until several are being tested for supply 50 million doses by the enrolled. the middle of November when other diseases. The results are a end of this year, and around 1.3 Pfizer is the first company to everyone in the study will have testament to the benefits of the billion by the end of 2021. release results from its COVID-19 been followed for at least two platform — using mRNA speeds H o w e v e r, t h e r e a r e vaccine, part of a planned interim months. That’s the timeframe the up the development of a vaccine logistical challenges, as the analysis by an independent data Food and Drug Administration since the process does not require vaccine has to be kept in ultra- safety monitoring board that is (FDA) is requiring for COVID- growing vast amounts of virus. cold storage at below minus reviewing all of the handful of 19 vaccines before considering Each injection contains lipid 80C. This could create major vaccine candidates from different them for emergency authorization nanoparticles — fat bubbles — logistical challenges for mass companies that are currently being or approval. that surround a strip of genetic treatment outside major urban tested in people. The findings The results represent a material, messenger RNA. The areas and in low- or middle- genetic material carries the income countries. blueprint for the distinctive spiky There are also questions protein that studs the coronavirus about how long immunity SAGICOR LIFE INC. surface. After being injected into lasts and the companies have a person’s arm, the fat capsule not presented a breakdown of delivers its payload to the body’s the vaccine’s effectiveness in Anthony Kuylen Sr of Cor Bishop Martin & Father Reyes Street, cells, and the messenger RNA different age groups. Dangriga Town, Belize, having made sworn deposition that Policy instructs those cells to build No F01172921 issued by Sagicor Life Inc. has been declared lost, the spike protein, effectively and having made application to the Directors to grant a duplicate teaching the immune system The Guardian of the same, notice is hereby given that unless objection is raised how to recognize and block the Protecting Freedom Rights Democracy within one month of the date hereof, the duplicate policy asked for coronavirus. will be issued. Instead, vaccine developers editor: only needed the genetic sequence Alfonso Noble Dated November 10th, 2020 of SARS-CoV-2, which ADVERTISING became available in January, Louis Thompson By Order to start building a vaccine. Compositor: Other companies, including Kristen Jimenez Althea Hazzard Massachusetts-based Moderna, Reporter: Corporate Secretary and vaccine giant Sanofi, are Jem Smith also testing mRNA COVID-19 CONTRIBUTORS: vaccines. Byron Donaire A vaccine - alongside better Rene Flowers treatments - is seen as the best way Vanessa Guerrero SAGICOR LIFE INC. of getting out of the restrictions RECEPTIONIST/ACCOUNTS CLERK that have been imposed on all our Vanessa Gillett lives. There are around a dozen in Sylvia Kuylen of Cor Bishop Martin & Father Reyes Street, the final stages of testing - known Published by The Dangriga Town, Belize, having made sworn deposition that Policy as a phase 3 trial - but this is the Guardian Newspaper Limited No F01172939 issued by Sagicor Life Inc. has been declared lost, first to show any results. Cor. Ebony St. & Bel China Bridge, and having made application to the Directors to grant a duplicate Previous trials have shown P. O. Box 1898 Belize City, Belize of the same, notice is hereby given that unless objection is raised the vaccine trains the body to Telephone: within one month of the date hereof, the duplicate policy asked for make both antibodies - and 207-5346, 207-5347 will be issued. another part of the immune Fax: 227-5343 system called T-cells to fight the Dated November 10th, 2020 E-mail: [email protected] coronavirus. or [email protected] Two doses, three weeks By Order apart, are needed. The trials - in Website: www.guardian.bz US, Germany, Brazil, Argentina, Printed by The Guardian Press Althea Hazzard South Africa and Turkey - show Cor. Ebony St. & Bel China Bridge, Corporate Secretary 90% protection is achieved P. O. Box 1898 Belize City, Belize Page 3 The GuardIan Sunday, November 15, 2020 Page 4 The GuardIan Sunday, November 15, 2020 PUP Wins $10 million to flood victims Let the Pillaging Begin! As we go to press tonight in the public service the very November 11, we know that the minute they take office. That too People’s United Party will form will be adding significantly to the next government. At 9:15, the unemployment line. Leader of the United Democratic Most recently, he stated Party, Hon. Patrick Faber, issued that one of the first moves his a concession statement in which government will be making he urged for unity as democracy will be the reopening of the free has once again prevailed and the zone in Corozal. Big mistake! people have spoken. But what He will, in effect, invite the Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow does this all mean? From what COVID-19 pandemic into the There have been bouts of Minister of the country and said this newspaper knows of the PUP, country in an uncontrollable unprecedented floods which have that even though his tenure in they have established themselves fashion. What’s more, he stated covered just about every corner office was almost up and that as a party that is well-known that immediately upon assuming of the country caused by tropical the government was strapped for for looting and plundering the office he will restart the illegal storm Eta. There were numerous cash, monies would be dedicated government coffers. The last cattle trade, basically giving flood warnings from the National to flood relief efforts. PM Barrow time they were in office they approval to an illegal act. There Emergency Management made it clear that regardless of the left the treasury empty with is not much more that could have Organization (NEMO) and for outcome of the general elections, almost unsurmountable bills been expected from this lot. quite some time, a flood watch at least $10 million had been which we had nothing to show Even before taking office, was in effect for the Belize, identified in these efforts. These for. Now they are back and there we have seen glimpses of how Cayo, Stann Creek, and Toledo monies have been identified from is nothing that they have told they will again cream off the districts. Despite these warnings, a series of reimbursements from us that inspires us to begin to public coffers. At least one of however, almost nothing could international financial institutions believe that they are a reformed the key players of the Mahogany have prepared the residents for as well as other rainy day savings. political party. Very many of the Heist disaster has reared her ugly the flood which overtook these He says that regardless of the same players of the 1998 - 2008 head once again and is already districts. In certain areas of the upcoming elections, whatever era remain in place. And now planning her next housing scam. country, flood waters raised all the funds deemed necessary for some of their offspring are in We will wait and see how that way up to eight feet and farmers disaster relief will be identified office. one develops and how the public had to relocate their livestock and as spent accordingly. From what we have gleaned purse will suffer. parents and guardians had to fend Being realistic, however, from their policies, their return But with all that said, for higher grounds. By the latest the Rt. Hon. Barrow expressed will once again usher in an era democracy is alive in Belize! approximations, some 30,000 that the distribution of these of pillaging. We have heard their The UDP was unsuccessful as residents have been directly provisions have been made leader, John Briceño publicly the people have told us that we impacted by the flood. A number concrete with both Hon. Patrick say that they will discontinue the can no longer serve. With all of government agencies including Faber, leader elect of the United ongoing infrastructural projects. that has been previously said, personnel from the Belize Coast Democratic Party, and Hon. This means that hundreds of we wish that we have judged Guard have gone out for disaster John Briceno, Leader of the Belizeans will be added to the the PUP and to see whether they relief and on Saturday, November Opposition. This, then, negates already very long unemployment can do better than this golden era 7, an announcement was made. any potential threat of eliminating line. He has also categorically that the UDP ushered into Belize At that time, the Rt. Hon. this commitment by the new stated that mass firings will begin between 2008 and 2020. Dean Barrow was still Prime administration. The UDP Winners Magistrate’s Court General elections were held Leader, Hon. Hugo Patt, defeated on Wednesday, November 11, David Castillo to take the Corozal overwhelmed with cases 2020 and despite COVID-19 still North constituency. being a very real threat, the people Hon. Tracy Taegar-Panton came out to vote. It was a tough of Albert likewise defeated her election and as we got to press, PUP opponent Paul Thompson. the United Democratic Party had The UDP also won in the won five seats. These include the Mesopotamia and Queen’s Square Collet constituency where Leader divisions where Shyne Barrow of the UDP, Hon. Patrick Faber, defeated PUP’s Dr. Candice beat his rival Oscar Arnold to take Pitts and Denise “Sista B” the Collet division. Barrow beat PUP’s Allan Pollard, The UDP’s Deputy Party respectively. Crowd ordered to gather in Battlefield Park The Belize City Magistrate’s requirements in the precincts of NOTICE Court was closed down for two the court that the crowd had to WIGMORE HOLDINGS INC. weeks between Monday October be ordered to go into the nearby ELGREEN HOLDINGS INC. 26 to Monday November 9. The Battlefield Park. FINCHLEY CONSULTING SERVICES LTD. closure was as a result of 4 police Apparently there was some (“the Companies”) prosecutors and a police court misunderstanding as to how the orderly having tested positive cases were to have proceeded Notice is hereby given that the Companies have been for Covid-19. and the large crowd of almost dissolved and struck off the International Business When the court reopened its a hundred persons gathered at Companies Register with effect from November 5th, doors, the magistrate’s court was the court expecting for their 2020. overwhelmed by persons who matters to proceed. It was not had come for the continuation until a couple of hours later Orion Corporate & Trust Services Ltd. of their cases. The crowd was that the persons were called so large that it was impossible individually and given an Registered Agent to adhere to social distancing adjournment date. Page 5 The GuardIan Sunday, November 15, 2020 Ambulance for Gill nets now illegal Corozal Hospital

Gill nets Statutory Instrument (SI) and possession of gill nets No. 158 of 2020 has been signed will ensure that productive into law by Dr. Hon. Omar fisheries remains available for Figueroa, Minister of Fisheries, future generations of fishers and the Environment, and Sustainable will provide security to those Ambulance donated to the Corozal Community Hospital by Development. This SI, titled whose livelihoods depend on the Midwest Mission Distribution Center Fisheries Resources (Gill net a healthy marine ecosystem. On Monday, November Hospital. prohibition) Regulations, 2020, Janelle Chanona, Vice President 9, a UAF C-17 cargo airplane On arrival, Deputy Regional details the banning of the use and of Oceana, says that this ban landed at the Philip Goldson Manager for the Northern Region, possession of gill nets in all of is a “win for all Belizeans”. International Airport (PGIA) Dr. Jorge Sajia witnessed the Belize’s jurisdiction of marine Likewise, Oceana recognizes with an ambulance on board. The delivery of the ambulance. The environments. The passage of the fishers and other activists vehicle was a donation from the vehicle will be used for services this SI concludes a two-year long and allies who have ensured Midwest Mission Distribution at the Corozal Community process which began in 2018 that the banning of gill nets Center to the Corozal Community Hospital. which saw: (i) the establishment has remain priority. “Oceana of a stakeholder taskforce in reiterates its unwavering 2018 to examine the issue of commitment to supporting gill net use; (ii) the development the policies and practices that of recommendations in 2019 to increase abundance so that phase out gill nets concluding fishers can always depend on in a ban; (iii) the signing of a fishing and so Belize can always cooperate agreement in 2020 boast magnificent marine between the Coalition for biodiversity.” NGO Senator, Sustainable Fisheries, Oceana Hon. Osmany Salas, offered and the Government of Belize to his support and commended the assist gill net fishers to transition Government, NGO community, to alternative income generating and the public for their opportunities and trade-in their seriousness in improving the gill nets; and (iv) the successful sustainable management of our engagement of gill net fishers fisheries resources. in 2020 in the transition and The Government of Belize buy-back process. At the recognizes the collective culmination of that two-year commitment of the private long process, with a successful sector, conservation community transition program in place, the and fishers to the sustainability use and possession of gill nets of our fisheries sector and will in the maritime waters is now continue to work to ensure that prohibited by the gazetting of Belizeans will be able to depend Statutory Instrument 158 of on a bountiful and beautiful 2020 on November 5, 2020. Caribbean Sea for generations The banning of the use to come. NOTICE

Be it known that PANGOLIA LTD., a Belize International Business Company, is in dissolution, effective 21st October, 2020. The liquidator for the Company is Mr. Ryan John Wrobel, Attorney-at-Law of Belize City.

Ryan John Wrobel Registered Agent Page 6 The GuardIan Sunday, November 15, 2020 First National Cybersecurity Strategy unveiled The Ministry of National Security in collaboration with the Public Utilities Commission on Thursday, November 5 launched Belize’s first National Cybersecurity Strategy 2020-2023. The National Cybersecurity strategy was the product of several months of public consultation and research by a multi-pronged team. The development of this Strategy was guided by the OAS-CICTE, and coordinated by the National Security Council Launch for the first National Cybersecurity Strategy Secretariat, the Public Utilities CEO Lovell, the banking system, government here – there were software, they are compromising Commission, Central Information the Public Utilities Commission no laws to protect people or for themselves right there.” Technology Office, the Attorney (PUC), and others were involved law enforcement to use to help Claire Evans, British High General’s Ministry, and an Inter- in the whole configuration. mitigate the issue,” she said. Commissioner concludes that institutional Cybersecurity Task John Avery, Chairman Some of those internet moving forward, Belize has Force. The overall objective of of the PUC explains that a dangers are numerous says become part of the get-safe online this strategy is to take a public- recently held one-week National Superintendent Mario Alcoser - ambassador scheme designed to private partnership approach Cybersecurity Symposium was, Commander, Police Information create an empowered network of to foster an open and trusted perhaps, the biggest such event Technology and Cyber Unit. individuals now including thirty digital environment in Belize, ever held in Belize. In fact, “We play a vital role in educating Belizeans who will be trained which would enable innovation, they established the National the public of the dangers in to help carry forward the cyber economic development, and Cybersecurity Taskforce on the cyberspace, and ways for the safety message. social inclusion. last day of the symposium. That public to protect themselves The Ministry of National The three pillars of the task force has been working using technologies like anti- Security and the Public Utilities Strategy include developing ever since. It has grown in malware, using legitimate, open- Commission has expressed a Legislative Framework; membership and representation source software. Avoiding the deepest gratitude to the UK strengthening Incidence from all sectors of society. use of pirated software is very Government for providing Response and Protection of But the internet has important. Pirated software funding for the development Critical Infrastructure; and developed to such an extent generally contains malware, of the Strategy, the OAS- Building Capacity within the that it needed new approaches. spyware, and key-loggers. So, CICTE, and the members of the Workplace. “Given the fact that the world when people use those types of Cybersecurity Task Force. S i n c e t h e S t r a t e g y is modernizing and we need the development process began internet, we need cyberspace to in 2018, the Cybersecurity do business and for even social Task Force has simultaneously development. We looked at the been working to achieve context and say let’s start with priority components of the the basics,” explains Nicole pillars outlined above such as Haylock, the Deputy Director drafting the Cybercrime Bill of the National Security Council 2020, conducting stakeholder Secretariat. consultations, and participating H a y l o c k c o n t i n u e s , in capacity-building initiatives “Cyberspace is another realm for Criminal Justice personnel of security that’s here to stay, and technical staff in the public and just as in the past, we have and private sectors. Most identified land, sea, and air as a recently, the Ministry of National focus for security development. Security in collaboration with Now we have to include GetSafeOnline.org UK, launched cyberspace. So, given the fact the GetSafeOnline Ambassadors that the world is modernizing, Scheme, which will facilitate and we need the internet, we training for Belizeans to be able need cyberspace to do business to contribute to cybersecurity and even social development.” public awareness in their local Debra Adamson, AdamsCon communities. IT & Security Consulting George Lovell the CEO in Services Limited adds that it is the Ministry of National Security very important in Belize because says that Belize needed a strategy most of the population has not that was led by policy. So, a task been exposed to cybersecurity force was put together and got awareness. “And until the the whole society engaged over strategy was put in place and the last few years. According to the bill was passed through the Classifieds Liquor License Notice - Notice is hereby given that under the Intoxicating Liquor Licence Ordinance Chapter 150 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2000, that Chrisnor Monde is applying for the renewal of a Beer Liquor License for the year 2021 to operate “Marantha Shop” located at 146 Antelope Street, Belize City, Belize District. Page 7 The GuardIan Sunday, November 15, 2020 New Ministry of Foreign Affairs Headquarters in Belmopan

(L-R) H.E. Remus Li-Kuo Chen and Hon. Wilfred Elrington Leigh Richardson Building unveiled in Belmopan A new building which the first being the Edward Laing the Grand Medal of Diplomacy recognition of the Minister’s will be home to the Ministry of Building in Belize City which by H.E. Remus Li-Kuo Chen, extensive contributions to fostering Foreign Affairs (MOFA), The was gifted in 2016. Ambassador of Taiwan to Belize-Taiwan relations during his Leigh Richardson Building, Thursday’s brief ceremony Belize, on Minister Hon. Wilfred 12-year tenure as Belize’s longest was unveiled in Belmopan on was marked by the conferral of Elrington. This was done in serving Foreign Minister. Thursday, November 5, 2020. This building is the second building which has been gifted to MOFA from the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and one of their countless contributions to the country. For more than 30 years, the people of Belize have greatly benefitted from this formal diplomatic relationship. Throughout that time, the Government of Taiwan has significantly contributed to the modernization of Belize through the enhancement of human resource development, capacity building, technical assistance, and facilitation of Belize’s participation and interaction with international and regional stakeholders. The Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the Government of Belize have enjoyed a long tradition of strong cooperation. Taiwan has been an invaluable partner for Belize in its overall national development goal. As one of Belize’s most trustworthy and cherished development partners, Taiwan also provides support to key areas of Belize‘s development such as agriculture, tourism, health, education, culture, technology, infrastructure, and culture. This most recent project marks another milestone in the two countries’ relationship and establishes the first ever headquarters building for MOFA in Belize’s history. The new headquarters is named in honor of the late Belizean nationalist Leigh Isaiah Richardson, one of the first Belizeans who represented Belize officially in international affairs abroad. The Leigh Richardson Building is the second building that the Government of Taiwan gifted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Page 8 The GuardIan Sunday, November 15, 2020 Securing cyberspace in Belize

The country’s first National stakeholder consultations Cybersecurity Strategy 2020- and participating in capacity- 2023 was launched virtually building initiatives for Criminal by the Ministry of National justice personnel and technical Security and the Public Utilities staff within both the public Commission (PUC) on Thursday, and private sectors. The PUC’s November 5, 2020. The COVID- Chairman John Avery also 19 pandemic which has plagued shared the point of CEO Lovell us since early this year has forced and focused on the National a number of businesses to operate Cybersecurity Symposium and online and has made us aware of the development of a National how convenient it is to connect Cybersecurity Taskforce which to each other on the internet. were also a necessary activities The internet can be useful but taken before the final product. it does come with its threats. M o s t r e c e n t l y, t h e This Strategy exists to take a Ministry of National public-private partner approach Task force for the first National Cybersecurity Strategy Security in collaboration to develop a secure digital development. Now we have of capacity in the workplace with GetSafeOnline.org UK, environment in Belize and to include cyberspace. So, combined with education and launched the GetSafeOnline will focus on addressing these given the fact that the world is public awareness. Ambassadors Scheme, which dangers. As Nicole Haylock, modernizing, and we need the Chief Executive Officer in will facilitate training for Deputy Coordinator, National internet, we need cyberspace the Ministry of National Security, 30 Belizeans to be able to Security Council Secretariat, to do business and even social Ret. Col. George Lovell, says contribute to cybersecurity puts it, cyberspace is also development.” that the development of this public awareness in their local something to be protected. There Through this Strategy, Strategy has taken quite some communities. The development are systems in place to defend we would also have enabled time as well as multisectoral of this Strategy was guided by the our territories of land, air, and innovation, economic input. Since 2018, when the OAS-CICTE, and coordinated sea, and cyberspace should development, and social process of the Strategy begun, by the National Security be treated to differently. She inclusion. It will work on three the Cybersecurity Task Force has Council Secretariat, the Public says, “Cyberspace is another pillars including developing also been working on achieving Utilities Commission, Central realm of security that’s here a legislative framework; priority components of the Information Technology Office, to stay, and just as in the past, strengthening incidence response three pillars. These include the the Attorney General’s Ministry we have identified land, sea, and protection of critical drafting of the 2020 Cybercrime and an Inter-institutional and air as a focus for security infrastructure; and the building Bill as well as conducting Cybersecurity Task Force. Page 9 The GuardIan Sunday, November 15, 2020 2 Million dollars to support Gillnet Ban Oceana Belize and the their work will continue to Coalition for Sustainable be focused on ensuring that Fisheries has been able to get the Caribbean Sea remains a complete ban on the use beautiful and diverse. They of gillnets in Belize. One of will also now be focusing on the primary components that supporting enforcement efforts propelled the move forward was as well as supporting fisherfolk that both organizations were in their efforts. On the issue of able to put their dollars where enforcement there is a concern their mouths were and each by Belizean fishers who say came up with a million dollars that enforcement is lacking. to help the gillnet fishers to Vice President of Oceana Belize, Chairman of the Coalition for They complain that while transition from its use. Janelle Chanona Sustainable Fisheries, Andrew Roe Belizeans are forced to comply Via a Zoom meeting, Vice used to help those fishers, by the Belize Fishermen with regulations there are those President of Oceana Belize, a small number of them, Cooperative Association’s who come into our waters and Janelle Chanona explained transition to other forms of stance that they were not illegally take our resources and that those fishers who have earning a living. Included in consulted, both Roe and are not held to account. signed up to see the banning that will be to help for them Chanona say that the process From an international of the gillnets have signed a to go into farming and as such to get where we are now was an standpoint, Belize’s gillnet contract with them. Among the help in the preparation of their all inclusive one. The expressed ban is quite an accomplishment stipulations of the contract will land as well as other technical their surprise that with a small and Chanona says they will be the handing in of their gear support. That however will fee of $25 to receive a license make sure the world knows thereafter Oceana will begin be for fishers in the minority. it was strange that there were what Belize has done. She to issue cash disbursements For others it will be assistance some fishermen who opted added that the move was one between the months of November to replace lost earning via to conduct their activities where we need to know that and December. Thereafter, the economic alternatives in the illegally. we can depend on our marine disbursements will be made on very fisheries industry. For now, the gillnet ban resources. If this inspires other a monthly basis for the next 23 There are a total of 83 is now a done deal and asked countries to follow suit, it will months to replace lost income licensed gillnet users who each if Oceana is now causeless, be important. She noted that by the fisherfolk. paid $25 a year to have that Chanona explained that there we need to embrace our role in Andrew Roe, Chairman of license and both Oceana and are many other there are still safeguarding our resource sand the Coalition for Sustainable the coalition say they are all many challenges facing the hope that it motivates, inspires Fisheries explained that their on board. marine environment that need and challenges others to do the counterpart funding will be Reacting to a complaint attention. She added that same. Page 10 The GuardIan Sunday, November 15, 2020 Historic floods cause by hurricane Eta

Aerial view of the flooding in San Ignacio Personnel from the Belize Coast Guard to the rescue of children in western Belize The remnants of Hurricane conditions. Also closed was the Hon. Omar Figueroa, areas in Western Belize affected by Eta brought a downpour over Baking Pot Ferry. The low-level Representative for the Cayo North the flood. Both the Belize Defence most of the country of Belize. timber bridge that spans the Macal Division was also on the ground Force and Coast Guard had done In western Belize, it caused both River between San Ignacio and since Wednesday along with the their work carrying food and the Macal and Mopan Rivers to Santa Elena was also closed. Belize Defence Force (BDF) water supplies onboard powerful overflow their banks and bringing Later on, roads leading to Bullet and Belize Coast Guard(BCG) two engine boats on Saturday to distress to many. From Wednesday Tree and Santa Familia became assessing the situation in Cayo Bullet Tree Falls residents as the night the National Emergency impassable and Spanish Lookout North and ensuring that all families Salvador Fernandez Bridge was Management Organization was not accessible via the Valley were safe. underwater. NEMO had foretold of heavy of Peace Road. Over the weekend the Former Hurricane Eta has rains. Indeed, NEMO had been However, by Friday morning National Fire Service was spraying finally departed Central America, on the ground as of mid-week; David’s Adventure Tours, Belle’s the mud from off the asphalt near where the devastating storm especially in the Calla Creek Area Delight and many other businesses the Cayo Welcome Center, as by left at least 57 dead and many advising people to move to higher near the Cayo Welcome Center Saturday the Macal River was more missing. Now, Eta has re- ground. were underwater. Goods from receding. By Saturday, life in San strengthened into a strong tropical During the week, National several businesses had gotten Ignacio was beginning to come storm as it churns through the Hydrological Service was also wet. The Macal River was also back to normal with market day Caribbean and is set to unload reporting that the Macal River threatening to flood the San opening at the Falcon Field. torrential rain and strong winds reservoir levels at Mollejon and Ignacio Library. Librarians had Over the weekend, the in Cuba and South Florida. Eta Vaca facilities were above the been working over the last few Ministry of Human Development, is the 28th named storm of the spillway. When that happens, days to secure the books to a Social Transformation, and 2020 hurricane season, tying the it is just a matter of time when higher level, taking their valuable Poverty Alleviation was also record for the number of named that huge volume of water flows Belize reading collection in high responding with food and water storms in a single season set back towards Branch Mouth, meets priority. supplies to residents in outlying in 2005. with the Mopan River and causes a backup beyond the watersheds near San Ignacio Town. By Thursday morning, Mayor of San Ignacio and Santa Elena Earl Trapp Jr. had deployed 30 of his personnel to assist those in the market area to evacuate as the Macal River was rising rapidly. The San Ignacio and Santa Elena Town Council had also advised that the market will temporarily be relocated to the Falcon Field, which is located beside its headquarters. The Macal River continued to rise to such an extent throughout Thursday that two members of a family, who had not heeded to the warnings, had to be rescued from behind the San Ignacio Community Hospital. By Thursday night, 12 families or over 50 persons were sheltering at the Bishop Primary School in San Ignacio. By mid-week Chief Engineer, Lennox Bradley was also reporting that the Iguana Creek Bridge and the Branch Mouth Cable Bridge was closed under flood Page 11 The GuardIan Sunday, November 15, 2020

audition for the role, hoping that The N-Word Silenced Ashcroft we will give them the thumbs up and regretfully select them. We all saw how some workers. It is amazing how the Ashcroft for the Universal. Unfortunately, unseen by the weeks ago that the simple PUP can issue press releases at Just prior to the incident audience, there is an even worse mention of that N-Word, the drop of a hat, but couldn’t do at the Port of Belize with set of bad actors such as the that is “Nationalization”, by so when Ashcroft’s people were the workers, Ashcroft was likes of Ashcroft, Ralph, the Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean roughing up the port workers at desperately and fruitlessly trying Novelos and countless other Barrow in relation to the Port the port. Even the public officers, to rehabilitate his reputation PUP barbarians, lurking and of Belize, immediately struck who agreed to have increments and polish over his name by waiting in the wings, hoping fear into the heart of Michael frozen in the COVID-19’s cost- travelling all over Belize, doing that their onstage actors can Ashcroft, who, despite an initial cutting measures, got a PUP interviews and even hugging convince the audience to give outburst in a threatening letter press release but, unsurprisingly, trees and village signs to remote them a chance. that inexplicably and probably there was none for the port places like Dolores, the name While a BLU PUP accidentally spilled the beans workers. Briceno and the PUP of which ironically translates as administration might make for on the apparently incestuous need to explain what is up with pain. Additionally, the Ashcroft good humor and comedy with relationships between some of that. They also need to explain Foundation funded some $10 lots of entertaining drama as his companies and ownership to the Belizean people how million towards COVID-19 we watch them stumble all over of the port, very quickly and come it was that even while in relief efforts. Nevertheless, it themselves, it will undoubtedly in record time backed down opposition when the Universal turned out that despite all these bring back extreme waste and from the confrontation with the Guarantee payment, of in excess efforts, Belizeans consider that corruption which is the type of port workers and the CWU and of $90 million, came up for a vote just like the name PUP, the drama that we all can do without. surprisingly quickly made nice in the House of Representatives, name Ashcroft is so toxic to We definitely know that we can with them. all the PUPs were begging the Belizean nation that there do far better if we want to be Let us hope that our new the government to please pay is absolutely nothing that could entertained as we can get our UDP Party Leader and future Ashcroft. be done to rehabilitate it. That entertainment and humor from Prime Minister paid keen Perhaps it is better that they became abundantly clear when good and truly talented actors attention to how PM Barrow don’t explain it though since we local firebrands were willing and comedians like those whom put Ashcroft in his place and all know exactly why. We don’t to run the gauntlet of being we have seen lately onstage at kept him under manners with need to wonder where Johnny arrested for violating COVID-19 the Bliss Institute and elsewhere. a few carefully spoken words and the PUP so suddenly got restrictions just to demonstrate We do not want and certainly do and by the mere mention of what appears to be hundreds of outside Channel 5 during an not need the bad and corrupt PUP the Nationalization word. The thousands of dollars for slick Ashcroft interview to register actors to destroy and damage our Hon. Patrick Faber will certainly TV ads and infomercials in their dislike for him. The port economy and public finances all need to use whatever means addition to all the expensive incident just further underscored over again. To paraphrase the necessary to keep Ashcroft in his glossy bill boards, flags, posters the toxicity of that Ashcroft late Right Honorable George place when he becomes Prime and T-shirts that so wastefully name on the Belizean public’s Price, nation building is for Minister and takes over the and almost obscenely litter psyche. giants. We know that it is serious reins of government. Belizeans all over the place despite the It is no wonder that of late business to be left to those who were so pleased at how PM hardships that COVID-19 has Ashcroft has gone totally silent have already proven themselves Barrow and the UDP stood brought to Belize and Belizeans. and invisible in the hopes that such as the Hon. Patrick Faber up to Ashcroft on this matter We all know the old expression people will forget about how and the UDP. as the UDP government went that who pays the piper, calls the he and the PUP are intimately Belizean voters must make to bat for the port workers by tune. We could clearly recall that intertwined in a master-puppet Ashcroft finally realize that we supporting them throughout the the very last act of that desperate relationship as they always are not a nation of prostitutes, entire episode. and corrupt PUP administration appear to sing from the same waiting to be sold off to the Contrast that to the weak- that was kicked out of office song sheet. However, Ashcroft’s highest bidder. He may have knee approach of the PUP and in early 2008 was to illegally, silence has become all too become too used to the BLU their flaky leader, John Briceño, unconstitutionally and secretly deafening as we know that he, PUP prostitutes in that last who could only manage to make pay the Universal Hospital loan. and other PUP hanger-on’s are corrupt PUP government whom a tiny little whimper begging We also know if, God forbid that just waiting in the wings, hoping he could apparently control that the Ashcroft’s Receiver at they ever get returned to office, to swoop in if the grave mistake at his whim. Fortunately, he the port to reinstate the fired their first act would be to pay was ever made to let the PUP got a rude awakening with our back into office. Prime Minister Barrow and Lost Land/Lease Certificate Similar to the Ashcroft this UDP Government who name, the PUP name is also ever would not buckle under pressure Pursuant to Section 37(3) of the Registered Land Act, so toxic that they themselves are and have proven that they are Chapter 194, Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011, desperately trying to rebrand truly interested in looking after notice is hereby given of the loss of the following Land/ themselves as some “BLU” the affairs and interests of the Lease Certificate: which is what they think is a Belizean people. We must “sexy” new brand. This new never forget that this “new Name Registration Section, Certificate No. moniker comes after “True PUP”, or this so-called “BLU” Block & Parcel Nos. Blue” and “Vote Blue” failed to is just a cut-and-paste rehash KONSTANTIV LRS- work for the past few elections. of the old PUP, masquerading TITOV & Belize Rural North II, 201707482 dd However, after the 11 November as reformers. They are wolves VALIANTSINAVA Block 11, Parcel 1395 September 19, election, they will yet again need in sheep’s clothing, nothing (JOOINTLY) 2017 to wheel, to scratch another more than corrupt politicians match and to come again as this in reformers’ clothing. They It is proposed to cancel the above Land/Lease Certificates too will fail. may have changed their name after the expiration of twenty-one (21) days from the Belizeans, this is the but they haven’t changed not appearance of this notice. Any person in possession of scenario: it is as if we are sitting even one of their rancid stripes. the above-mentioned certificates is required to return it to in a theatre watching a play Belizeans, let us not be fooled the Belize Land Registry, Ministry of Natural Resources, unfold in front of us with a or hoodwinked and let us not City of Belmopan. set of bad PUP actors on the be distracted. Let us stay the stage, stumbling into each other, course on the road to prosperity fumbling their lines and even and development. Let us vote for forgetting their lines, as they the UDP! Page 12 The GuardIan Sunday, November 15, 2020 Floods bring damages to BEL and BWS infrastructure It is now sunny in Belize but for a good many days, torrential rains poured down and brought flooding especially in the Belize, Cayo, Stann Creek, and Toledo Districts. These were brought on by Tropical Storm Eta. Aside from the obvious impacts on the people, livestock, and agriculture, there were also damages to utility companies’ infrastructure and property. These were highlighted in a virtual press conference CEO John Mencias CEO Alvan Haynes CEO Errol Gentle called by Prime Minister Rt. outages and extensive damages transmission line. There were Haynes says that damages are Hon. Dean Barrow on Saturday, to equipment. CEO Mencias says also the flooding of BEL service estimated at about $400,000. November 7, 2020. that in Iguana Creek, where there areas which likewise posed the These floods have also A f t e r a n a s s e s s m e n t are about 900 feet of transmission risks of flood and, furthermore, caused damages to several miles from the National Emergency lines, flood waters rose to the damages to infrastructure. Aside of roadways and, again, have Management Organization height of these lines. “What from the damages caused to caused unprecedented flooding (NEMO), it was definite that happened - and unprecedented infrastructure, the flooding also to areas which were not prone to the rains had unparalleled - is that our transmission lines prevented BEL personnel and flood. Errol Gentle, CEO in the impacts in our country. The run over the Iguana Creek, and trucks from reaching these areas Ministry of Works, has said that pressure caused by flood water there’s about a 900-foot span of as expeditiously as possible. there are hotspot areas which are on water and transmission lines transmission line that runs over This likewise put a strain on being monitored, especially areas compromised their integrity the Iguana Creek. And, there’s the quantity of available human which were deemed impassable and Chief Executive Officer about a 25-to-30-foot clearance resources. due to heightened levels of (CEO) at the Belize Electricity between the top of the creek In Western Belize, which water. These are mostly areas Limited (BEL), John Mencias, and our lines. And that was suffered the greatest brunt of in western Belize but have gone detailed the distress caused to breached. The water rose up to the electricity outages, there to extend to areas in the Belize the company’s infrastructure. the level of the lines and got in were also complications and district, including Crooked Tree, All in all, there were three main contact with the lines.” These interruptions in their water and southern Belize. The people issues starting with a major lines, which have been in place supply. Severe flooding in immediately affected in these transmission line failure. As a since 1995, were comprised, the west caused a suspension areas are expected to receive result, there were power outages causing a major fault in BEL’s arraignment, belonging to the relief from some $10 million, in several areas across the country system. This forced them to Belize Water Services (BWS), which PM Barrow says has been and the threat of additional have to isolate that part of the to be washed away. CEO Alvan allocated to flood assistance. Page 13 The GuardIan Sunday, November 15, 2020 Page 14 The GuardIan Sunday, November 15, 2020 relationship. Be firm–it’ll work. and get your love!

Libra Sep 23 – Oct 22 Capricorn Dec 22 – Jan 19 Your Horoscope You might feel that your love life You’ll be feeling in your power on is finally starting to move forward again Thursday as Jupiter and Pluto embrace – but it may not be in the direction you in your sign. However, it’s possible that Aries Mar 21 – Apr 19 Cancer Jun 21 – Jul 22 hope. A fight that you and your partner you’ll experience this conjunction in a Expect a week of inflamed If you’re single, there’s definite have needed to have for way too long way that puts you on a bit of a power passions and the resolve to get what hope for you in matters of the heart! may finally happen this week and if so, trip. If you find yourself ordering you want, no matter what! If you’re On Sunday a New Moon lands right it won’t be pretty. At this point, you have someone around or trying to manipulate in a relationship, you could seriously in your true love sector, filling it with no choice, because neither one of you circumstances to go according to your aggravate your partner on Monday. He amazing potential for a fresh start. can keep things bottled up any longer. romantic agenda, take heed. This is not or she won’t approve of your actions. You could easily meet someone you the best way to use the potent energy of You might be too crass or inconsiderate find mysterious, intense, fascinating Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 21 this cosmic connection. Instead, why not of their needs. If that happens, the last ... and completely sexy! If you’re in a Mercury enters your sign on try taking radical responsibility for your thing your sweetheart will want to do is relationship, then this could be a tricky Tuesday and he’s moving direct and role in your love life direction. express affection. A new love connection week. It looks like a power struggle is strong in the sky this time. If you is on the way if you’re single! brewing between you and your partner experienced any communication hiccups Aquarius Jan 20 – Feb 18 about a child or your career path. in the last few weeks, especially as it You might put your foot in your Taurus Apr 20 – May 20 relates to your love life, you’ll finally mouth during a conversation with a love You’ll finally start to feel as if you Leo Jul 23 – Aug 22 be able to resolve them now. You’ll also interest or your partner. A discussion know where you want to take things in You might try to have a balanced have greater clarity on decisions that about gender and gender roles might your love and sex life after Mars turns and fair conversation this week about need to be made about your romantic turn into a heated conversation that direct on Friday. It’s possible you’ve how things are going between you matters. If you were reticent about leans towards sexism. It might be been keeping a sexual dalliance with and your partner, only to find that the trusting your lover or someone new unintentional, but one or both of you someone very private and have been discussion quickly leads to a heated with any of your secrets or personal could easily become triggered and feeling guilty about it for one reason or argument. The fight might be about information, then you’ll probably test turned off. In better news, you will notice another. You will now either decide that sex, a commitment, or even a major the waters now and reveal something that you finally have the courage again you want to make this a public thing or difference you have in your spiritual that you normally keep private. If they to talk about what you need in love after end it completely. beliefs. By the end of the week you could end up keeping this to themselves, you’ll Friday. start to feel as if the two of you are never start to open up even more. Gemini May 21 – Jun 20 really going to be on the same page. Pisces Feb 19 – Mar 20 One of your friends might get in Sagittarius Nov 22 – Dec 21 There might be an awakening for the way of your dating life early in the Virgo Aug 23 – Sep 22 Your love life is finally ready to you in terms of the lengths you’re willing week. A pal might be going through a Expect finances to be a war zone get back on track! Mars, the planet of to go to in order to achieve a genuinely crisis at the same time you have a date topic this week for you and your mate. assertive drive, turns direct right in your intimate connection. Broadening your planned with someone special. You’ll be It looks like your sweetie is going romance sector on Friday. If you’ve had horizons, learning something new, or frustrated over having to cancel but you completely overboard on the spending little ambition to play the dating game, advancing your spiritual views are ways also don’t want to let your friend down. and you’re tired of picking up the slack. or if your advances towards someone to become more open to the kind of love If you’re completely single then it’s Cleaning up another person’s financial special have been frustrating, you’re connection that, up until now, has been possible a friend will try to take control messes isn’t exactly what you signed about to notice a major shift. It will be out of your reach. If single, it’s possible of your love life situation and help get up for, and yet this is exactly what you as if your heart and your motivation to that you’ll meet someone mysterious and you back in the game. Unfortunately, it may find yourself dealing with. You’ll pursue your hear’ts desires are suddenly intriguing who is not your typical type. looks like being your wing man or wing need to set your partner straight once waking up from a long winter’s nap This person will certainly be attracted to woman will backfire. It’s your friend and for all, reminding them that taking –and you’re very hungry! Don’t be you, but you might not realize it at first who’s more likely to get the attention personal responsibility for their mistakes surprised if your passions are stirred because he or she will be so low-key than you. is a must if you’re going to continue this almost immediately for someone. Go about it. Page 15 The GuardIan Sunday, November 15, 2020 Two prison escapees captured, Tarique Kelly arraigned three remain at large for shooting at a minor A 16-year-old minor who was shot at has been able to identify one of his alleged attackers as 21-year-old Tarique Kelly, a neighbor of the victim. For the shooting incident, Kelly was detained on Friday, November 6 and was taken to court to be arraigned on Monday, November 9. He appeared before Magistrate Albert Hoare before Carlos Montejo and Enrique Martinez captured in the Pomona community whom he was read a charge of aggravated assault with a firearm upon a 16-year-old minor. Kelly Tarique Kelly was unrepresented in court and as Friday, November 13. pleaded not guilty to the charge The shooting incident dates but due to the nature of the back to October 31 on Mayflower offense, bail could not be granted. Street. According to the victim, He is currently on remand at he was at home when he saw the Belize Central Prison until Kelly and a second man pass by January 8, 2021 but Magistrate his home. Minutes later, he saw (L-R) Michael Faux, Jaroud Lamb and Erwin Lanza remain wanted Hoare explained to him that he Kelly pull out a firearm and fire It has now been close to a found in the Pomona Community has the right to apply for bail at several shots in his direction. month since 28 men broke out in southern Belize. It was acting the Supreme Court through the Luckily for the minor, none of from the Belize Central Prison. on intelligence that Dangriga assistance of an attorney as early the bullets made contact. To date, only three of those men police were able to find these men remain on the lam since two in that area. more were recaptured over the For now, Jaroud Lamb, weekend. Police say that both Michael Faux, and Erwin Lanza Bail for rape Carlos Montejo, one of the alleged remain at large. Police are Matthew Fuentes, who has masterminds behind the prison working with information in been accused of and remanded break, and Enrique Martinez were efforts to locate these men. on a charge of rape, has received Supreme Court bail. On Friday, November 6, 2020, Fuentes, Shooting at Majestic Alley 25, appeared before Justice Despite the seemingly Antoinette Moore who granted incessant rains which poured the accused bail of $10,000. He down late last week, gun violence was ordered not to interfere with still managed to find its place in the virtual complainant nor any the city. On Thursday, November prosecution witnesses and must Matthew Fuentes 5, Lynton Sutherland was shot report to the police station once home of the 22-year-old victim and since that shooting, is in a a week as well as his next court on October 27, 2020. There, he critical state at the Karl Heusner date. hit her across the head with a gun Memorial Hospital (KHMH). Fuentes allegedly forced and forced her to perform oral Police reports say that the incident his way into the Sandhill Village sex on him. took place at the corner of North Front Street and Majestic Alley in Belize City, minutes before 9:00 Lynton Sutherland p.m. Upon arrival to the location, vehicle fired shots toward the Two police officers witnesses informed police that 45- group causing Sutherland to year-old Sutherland, a stevedore sustain multiple gunshot injuries stabbed in Hopkins also known as ‘Tutsa’, was along to the body. He was transported Two police officers were area responded. In an attempt to with others standing at the corner to the KHMH for treatment victims of a knife attack which detain the suspect, another officer when a white Ford car passed and remains critical. Police are took place at around 8:30 p.m. was stabbed by Nunez to the left them. Someone from inside that investigating. on Saturday, November 7, elbow. The officers were treated 2020. One of the officers was for their injuries at the Southern in Hopkins making his way Regional Hospital (SRH) where toward the village’s police station the first officer’s injuries were 10-year-old raped when he was approached by one classified as wounding and the Ashton Nunez. Nunez allegedly second one’s injuries as grievous during robbery pulled out a knife which he used harm. During the incident, Nunez There is a very disturbing men of Creole descent broke into to stab the officer to the head. received gunshot injuries and incident of rape to report which the house. The men proceeded to This prompted the officer to remains in a stable condition at took place in Punta Gorda, demand monies and ransacked draw back and to take out his the Southern Regional. Toledo, which has left the police the place. They then took the 10- police issued weapon. He fired According to ACP Joseph following several leads. In the year-old into one of the rooms a warning shot in the air but the Myvett, Head, National Crimes presence of her bother, the 10- where they found money and one attacker again lunged at him Investigation Branch, the police year-old victim told police that of the men then raped her. and upon hearing the warning are trying to ascertain if Nunez is on Friday, November 6, 2020, she A medical examination shots, a police mobile in the a mental patient. and her five-year-old sister were on the child reveals that she at their home in the town when was carnally known. Police are at around 10:30 a.m., their baby conducting an investigation into The Guardian online sitter stepped out to run an errand. the matter and are following It was during that time that two several leads. at www.guardian.bz Page 16 The GuardIan Sunday, November 15, 2020 Where is Jesus? A Sunday School teacher of pre-schoolers was concerned that his students might be a little confused about Jesus Christ because of the Christmas season emphasis on His birth.

He wanted to make sure they understood that the birth of Jesus occurred for real.

He asked his class, “Where is Jesus today?”

Steven raised his hand and said, “He’s in heaven.”

Mary was called on and answered, “He’s in my heart.” Homely Chaos Little Johnny, waving his hand furiously, blurted out, “I know, I know! He’s in our bathroom!!!” A woman was at home with her children when the telephone rang. In going to answer it, she tripped on a rug, grabbed for something to hold The whole class got very quiet, looked at the teacher, and waited for on to, and seized the telephone table. It fell over with a crash, jarring a response. The teacher was completely at a loss for a few very long the receiver off the hook. seconds.

As it fell, it hit the family dog, which leaped up, howling and barking. Finally, he gathered his wits and asked Little Johnny how he knew The woman’s three-year-old son, startled by this noise, broke into loud this. screams. The woman mumbled some colorful words. Little Johnny said, “Well... every morning, my father gets up, bangs on She finally managed to pick up the receiver and lift it to her ear, just in the bathroom door, and yells, ‘Good Lord, are you still in there?!’” time to hear her husband’s voice on the other end say, “Nobody’s said hello yet, but I’m positive I have the right number.” ------Luggage Mr. Smith was a traveling salesman and frequent flyer, so he was always Seated in the Back very, VERY careful to mark his luggage so that no one would mistakenly At a mental health hospital a psychiatrist sets a test to determine the mental take his bags. He always did this with bright ribbons and tape, so he was progress of his three top patients. He gets three chairs and repaints them. quite surprised to see his bags grabbed by a well-dressed man when he Before they dry, he re-positions them in a room in such a way that one is got to the luggage carousel. in front of the other. Mr. Smith walked over to the fellow and pointed out the colored ribbons After this, he calls the three patients and asks them to sit down. The first tied to the handle, and the fluorescent tape on the sides. two gladly sit on the wet chairs at the front. However, the third who comes in last takes one look at the wet chair and then proceeds to the corner of the “I believe that luggage is mine. Were your bags marked like this?” he room where there is a pile of papers. He takes one sheet which he drapes asked. on the wet chair before sitting. “Actually,” the man replied, “I was wondering who did this to my Surprised by the action of the third, the doctor asks him why he draped the luggage.” sheet of paper on the wet chair. ------“That’s easy,” came the reply, “seeing that I am seated at the back, I needed Spelling Drills to be a bit raised if I wanted to see what’s happening at the front.” A sixth grade class is doing some spelling drills. The teacher asks ------Tommy if he can spell ‘before.’ Present Discussion He stands up and says, ‘’Before, B-E-P-H-O-R.’’ December is the month when the kids begin to discuss what to get Dad The teacher says, ‘’No, that’s wrong. Can anyone else spell before?’’ for Christmas. Another little boy stands up and says, ‘’Before, B-E-F-O-O-R.” Some insist on a shirt. Again the teacher says, ‘’No, that’s wrong.’’ Others insist on a pair of socks. The teacher asks, ‘’Little Johnny, can you spell ‘before’?’’ The argument always ends in a tie. ------Little Johnny stands up and says, ‘’Before, B-E-F-O-R-E.’’

Grammar 101 ‘’Excellent Little Johnny, now can you use it in a sentence?’’ I’m giving up drinking until Christmas! Little Johnny says, ‘’That’s easy. Two plus two be fore.” Sorry, bad punctuation. ------I’m giving up, drinking until Christmas! ------Direct me to the Bank Man: I’m new around here. Will you please direct me to the bank?

Fire Power Little boy: I will, but only if you pay me ten dollars. Them: “Why do you always carry a knife?” Man: Why should I pay you so much? Me: “The last time I tried to open a bag of chips with a 9mm, things didn’t go so well.” Little boy: Because bank directors are always highly paid. Page 17 The GuardIan Sunday, November 15, 2020 Page 18 The GuardIan Sunday, November 15, 2020 Page 19 The GuardIan Sunday, November 15, 2020