tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60218398031786455862024-02-02T15:36:55.870-08:00San Pedro Vibes (PUP - Belize Rural South)PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-75712437047519227642009-03-05T13:37:00.000-08:002009-03-05T16:14:43.610-08:00CONGRATULATIONS AND THANK YOU FROM THE PUP 7<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_zBpnTjyT4z9aw6LDNWIq7Z8ZzfWGg9TK5wUElRYde3ss9aM4ZE5TvemzKXGEUspSpgZwSJHNvs8lKlMBOFuew_EzY3hS_LE59uFuw59u62OZZg5gCSh3kfAnyB38hVb3JbTHE4nk01qG/s1600-h/1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309822150349262434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_zBpnTjyT4z9aw6LDNWIq7Z8ZzfWGg9TK5wUElRYde3ss9aM4ZE5TvemzKXGEUspSpgZwSJHNvs8lKlMBOFuew_EzY3hS_LE59uFuw59u62OZZg5gCSh3kfAnyB38hVb3JbTHE4nk01qG/s320/1.jpg" border="0" /></a> <em><strong>First of all, WE extend well-deserved congratulations to Mayor Elsa Paz and Her Councilors on behalf of our team and all the PUP supporters we represent.</strong></em><br /><div align="justify"><br /><em><strong>Democracy has once again prevailed and the voice of the people has been heard loud and clear. This is something that we should all respect and honor. </strong></em></div><br /><div align="justify"><em><strong>This, however, definitely does not take away from the fact that a victory has been won for the People’s United Party tonight in more ways than one. </strong></em></div><br /><div align="justify"><em><strong>We were successful in putting together a dynamic team of strong, dedicated and passionate experienced and young political aspirants. We thank them for all their hard work, their dedication and their love to our party. We were successful in reaching the homes of thousands of you during our campaign. Listening to your concerns has increased the impetus which will continue to push us towards a victory for the people soon. </strong></em></div><br /><div align="justify"><em><strong>We will continue to champion the causes of the neediest and the most forgotten ensuring that the Municipal Council provides them the fair treatment they deserve. Most importantly, a victory has been won because we have fought a good fight and we have succeeded in decreasing the gap sending a serious message to the United Democratic Party that the PUP is very much alive and vibrant. </strong></em></div><br /><div align="justify"><em><strong>Tomorrow the work continues for the People’s United Party…This is definitely not the end of our journey. WE want to thank all our PUP supporters and friends who came out in large numbers to show their confidence in our team and in our party. WE want to assure you that the hard work of rebuilding our party and strengthening our support base will continue. </strong></em></div><br /><div align="justify"><em><strong></strong></em></div><div align="justify"><em><strong>Lastly, but definitely not least WE want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our committee members, campaigners and supporters who have accompanied us on this journey.<br /></strong></em></div><br /><div align="justify"><em><strong>And remember….<span style="font-size:130%;color:#3333ff;">PUP ALWAYS and PUP ALL the WAY!!!</span></strong></em><span style="font-size:130%;color:#3333ff;"> </span></div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-84577029100614292712009-03-02T15:50:00.000-08:002009-03-02T16:24:52.860-08:00PUP PRE-ELECTION RALLY A MASSIVE SUCCESS<div><div><div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii3FVrZyD8SREn4A05dwEsE8KyGkpDS1kGIql4TtBk3bb3S_gO4V2k3pjJsTF8qwzRFoGtCIqIgShMJSlaKVycbRLxRFrghDUJoi9Nsh6QH97OH5Skto1vvt4xw4P6axXgP437QoW_0zhX/s1600-h/DSCF9969.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308744534494714194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 374px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii3FVrZyD8SREn4A05dwEsE8KyGkpDS1kGIql4TtBk3bb3S_gO4V2k3pjJsTF8qwzRFoGtCIqIgShMJSlaKVycbRLxRFrghDUJoi9Nsh6QH97OH5Skto1vvt4xw4P6axXgP437QoW_0zhX/s320/DSCF9969.JPG" border="0" /></a> On Friday, February 27th the PUP candidates for the upcoming Municipal Election were joined by over 400 supporters and friends of the party for its Massive Pre-Election Rally. The crowd was really hyped up and excited as the chant of 'PUP ALL THE WAY" were loud and confident.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308745706839706754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi439zztAknyK57wcvag_AoZkZK63_jg_CnLZmrALKFRrPtTGHn8CTIJrGJohVXNblzDnfoHpjj_lLzY1EkZuo1qQWIKJ4YGtn6YhpF-NDtsb2f6yxveG4JYCqmj2VBGKwWzSO9FSWnVWE7/s320/DSCF9979.JPG" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308746850301497042" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSWOys47jJGPQd2VmHwmgX0cIbQ01NpYnagOUBFjJC4OR0zHAlxXKRmGBv5nob1hjmj4c-L3J6_-w5jqQ1hbWHA3LkS_Hotp9N9ySKwwZs1WK6HjElRLBuJkQogp8nHGqzAEYu8uPfxEPh/s320/DSCF9974.JPG" border="0" />Mayoral Candidate, Don Baldemar Graniel and his 6 Councillor candidates presently dynamic speeches full of hope, confidence and pride. Present for the special occasion was Party Leader, Johnny Briceno.<br /></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308749259823500594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiLtVsn0ZxkfsLzhHQHvPEYgOIi7oefbHR4dFnPC6K_lsubZXpUt8dS1eYv-gMoQ-50WI5QqOJgw68Z7di2liZUbeVaAvM4Dwq5Ti_xmT1SSpcEWS2cGAyaw3DTd9pReInya3waXygAgXs/s320/DSCF0023.JPG" border="0" />The amazing crowd and enthusiasm at the Pre-Election Rally was a clear and distinct message that come March 4th, the PUP will take over the reigns of the San Pedro Municipal Council.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308750375165528674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 381px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQh1aiA3GTDAFYhQae6Q8bwQA2DZ9cf6x76n3eZZXFLKo9D0QVYxJuzDP2ur9INMNyMSa_k4exkxlzmlefgjgR5yxtZgzn9yTRM7SPrIjQHaYPBePAqT6uQzdz1vjW-oFE7aYuvm7Ms0nU/s320/DSCF9970.JPG" border="0" />Special thanks to all friends and supporters of the People's United Party. On March 4th vote PUP 7 ALL THE WAY!!!!<br /><div> </div></div></div></div></div></div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-58181282927749269512009-02-20T20:36:00.000-08:002009-02-20T20:44:22.085-08:00REMEMBER THIS?? FLIP-FLOP MAYOR!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWvX6cj4PLMk1NCSgGZtN-zqYtvNXf5ysu_QFApeuwrQ6cfqU2pBbddeXG5P7A6D9siLPUjG7nmttKN5aXiZ-_J6DuGwew27gLf-ZkAED3wFhW3CRj3jMy0-VVOPa6yqR-MTXOMOzPOkjF/s1600-h/vol35_st03_01.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5305106742927753874" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 180px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 190px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWvX6cj4PLMk1NCSgGZtN-zqYtvNXf5ysu_QFApeuwrQ6cfqU2pBbddeXG5P7A6D9siLPUjG7nmttKN5aXiZ-_J6DuGwew27gLf-ZkAED3wFhW3CRj3jMy0-VVOPa6yqR-MTXOMOzPOkjF/s320/vol35_st03_01.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><p align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOB2cOkYArmyYy7lXifP6CAJ7UCuo4FUx7fHPx5DhUTrbWyYsGzBujpXPF0BeABIdryr8cflR1jreMwDvGoHXd9-5ZsbyH4Z-Q6q7jzfAuRJrrP37fSXMoNxT2VLNYYHtHvLXWCyWUoKxn/s1600-h/vol35_st03_01.jpg"></a></p><div><strong>Elsa Paz Quits Race for San Pedro Mayor</strong></div><div><strong> </strong>(<em>Ambergris Today, sept. 12, 2008)</em></div><br /><div>In an unprecedented turn of events, with information gathered from local news media, Mayor Elsa Paz of San Pedro Town has written to Party Leader Dean Barrow telling him that she is withdrawing her candidacy as Mayor.</div><br /><div>Ms. Paz cites her reasons as personal and she expresses her discontentment with various reasons. She says she is not comfortable with the much infighting going on inside the UDP including the Executive Committee of the San Pedro UDP. There is so much infighting that they cannot even agree on the manner in which the UDP convention will be conducted. The good Mayor has also been facing a court injunction and court hearing from two UDP stalwarts, namely Kevin Gonzalez and Yolanda Parham. The Mayor was seriously offended when two of her councilors walked out of a meeting after loud shouting and much discontentment.</div><br /><div>Reliable information informs us that there is a self-interested group inside the Executive that wants to oust the Mayor in favor of others who can be manipulated by the UDP Executive. Several names have been circulating including a member of the Guerrero family who is the son of “The Father of the UDP”, according to Area Representative Hon. Manuel Heredia. </div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-31617832613624374372009-02-16T20:21:00.000-08:002009-02-16T20:33:51.931-08:00PUP 7 INITIATES MARCH TO VICTORY ON NOMINATION DAY<div align="justify"> On February the 26th, the People's United Party Team of 7 Candidates contesting the Municipal Elections of March 4th, 2009 confidently marched to the Town Hall to be nominated. They were accompanied by a huge number of supporters and friends of the PUP who came out to proudly and firmly accompany their candidates as they officially began their march to victory.</div> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303617496565742114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 382px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 256px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOa6IM319HyL6OYJZAyXBsbyD133-BDvP6_uAW1zCRWe4wjkSx-obBnoytZSGzF9KQ-NYnb6qR7ckSXROqtqqagjpzjGXvIHfAQ8a0v033Ns6DpdhuWZO7jihNJAfELPJtz0WosDCE1B9z/s320/7.jpg" border="0" /><br />Mayoral Candidate, Baldemar Graniel, affectionately known by many as Don Baldi is a highly respected and accomplished leader in San Pedro. Without doubt, he is fully qualified and experienced to take over the much needed proper management of the San Pedro Town Council.<br /><div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggeLxAM5y8zvLrwWJshM4L3v6psApHpzsEtoQkz7jaQDZ-j-V0SV5X94rKl-jsAXoo4F-HwyTLYPvvpWdHKHYeUwpyU9CPFVxz7t-VI67Mwu7ElPTtUQdc8I4TBsbn_HB_L-6koZPyULVC/s1600-h/1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303617012091149042" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 372px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggeLxAM5y8zvLrwWJshM4L3v6psApHpzsEtoQkz7jaQDZ-j-V0SV5X94rKl-jsAXoo4F-HwyTLYPvvpWdHKHYeUwpyU9CPFVxz7t-VI67Mwu7ElPTtUQdc8I4TBsbn_HB_L-6koZPyULVC/s320/1.jpg" border="0" /></a> The people of San Pedro demand a change. After 6 years of mismanagement of the Town Council, the call for CHANGE...POSITIVE CHANGE. The PUP 7 team is READY, WILLING AND ABLE to take on that challenge and ensure that the people of San Pedro receive the respect, consideration and opportunities they deserve!!! PUP...ALL ABOUT QUALITY SERVICE TO THE PEOPLE<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303617226311770738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 358px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 259px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2WEF8OYPWwatVt1U4BqQb_pcEpf3eFElKOFTd9V_cqzkfDT0IZCnp9WMXl-TmODg2Pk-P_2lxSSQvtdQenejsbNS2bu0G8T3l45WmriHyNhETgAgWxzRzp6IkAGczr_PVn0pWnFq8UH5h/s320/3.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-9994372159986222032009-02-10T05:50:00.000-08:002009-02-10T05:53:51.703-08:00Launching of the Manifesto<div align="center"><strong><em><span style="font-size:180%;color:#000099;">The People's United Party </span></em></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><em><span style="font-size:180%;color:#000099;"></span></em></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><em><span style="font-size:180%;color:#000099;">candidates cordially invite </span></em></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><em><span style="font-size:180%;color:#000099;"></span></em></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><em><span style="font-size:180%;color:#000099;">you to the launching of the plan of </span></em></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><em><span style="font-size:180%;color:#000099;"></span></em></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><em><span style="font-size:180%;color:#000099;">action today, Feb. </span></em></strong><strong><em><span style="font-size:180%;color:#000099;">10, 2009 </span></em></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><em><span style="font-size:180%;color:#000099;"></span></em></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><em><span style="font-size:180%;color:#000099;">at 10:00 a.m. at PUP Headquarters.</span></em></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><em><span style="font-size:180%;color:#000099;"></span></em></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><em><span style="font-size:180%;color:#000099;"></span></em></strong></div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-80540467443462523032009-01-31T08:00:00.000-08:002009-01-31T08:12:23.059-08:00COMING SOON...LAUNCHING OF PUP PLAN OF ACTION FOR SAN PEDRO TOWN<div align="center"> <span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:arial;color:#000099;"><strong>BECAUSE SAN PEDRO DESERVES MORE....</strong></span><br /></div></span><div align="center"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:130%;color:#000099;"><strong>BECAUSE SAN PEDRO DESERVES BETTER.....</strong></span></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297491007614924946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-VaXrLk5UrrkE_IbIIa2ni5b3yFMTeMSPWtwTdHesXQwCS7HbNLLq54rzc-2li-mPkhtCx52MKKv2S-p9dxGGgaZKdsmw1YRrTUcwQZ2rxj-wPzfIbitW-X_GVf0S7hxcI6i3y21AjTzV/s320/watermarked_(2).JPG" border="0" /> <p align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:130%;color:#000099;">PUP 7......ALL THE WAY!!!!</span></strong></p>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-19371636540853143772009-01-28T09:20:00.000-08:002009-01-28T09:58:31.897-08:00UDP CITY AND TOWN COUNCILS IN TURMOIL!<p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY6Lzs7-jHRRpRozTgxbAnc-bf55_e31QMzsQoFN3uuQRK7ymdzRmukjzPCpzc1W2NzJqvdKIDnkWEXocxkr3ctBynvBC3dOtLM0sKImVYsbn9mHfp_TfRzWr1F7Y9rsYavzWArnsF4iFz/s1600-h/channel+5.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296397758783903858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 511px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 84px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY6Lzs7-jHRRpRozTgxbAnc-bf55_e31QMzsQoFN3uuQRK7ymdzRmukjzPCpzc1W2NzJqvdKIDnkWEXocxkr3ctBynvBC3dOtLM0sKImVYsbn9mHfp_TfRzWr1F7Y9rsYavzWArnsF4iFz/s320/channel+5.gif" border="0" /></a><em><span style="font-size:85%;"> (Stories Courtesy Channel 5 News @ http://www.channel5belize.com)<br /></span></em></p><div><br /><strong>Christine Perriott asked to resign by Mayor Moya…</strong></div><p align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWw5ozhlVIh_x1uAgJO0eFsM26bdu0RcjtxRJ-jwDyjsEZps-ycU8yZpHzXD6lppojf6WMv09VCv8YzL2LHHk7tip9i2NMxeITTHfX1xWHo4J9w42evYd26dY3Ju8LvuJyO2jSD52viZfA/s1600-h/perriot.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296404166144133554" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 172px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 129px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWw5ozhlVIh_x1uAgJO0eFsM26bdu0RcjtxRJ-jwDyjsEZps-ycU8yZpHzXD6lppojf6WMv09VCv8YzL2LHHk7tip9i2NMxeITTHfX1xWHo4J9w42evYd26dY3Ju8LvuJyO2jSD52viZfA/s320/perriot.jpg" border="0" /></a>One day after the U.D.P. City Council kicked off its municipal elections campaign attempting to show some semblance of unity, Mayor Zenaida Moya finds herself once again at the epicenter of another controversy. This time there is plenty more drama and it surrounds the adversarial Human Resources Director, Christine Perriott who was asked by the mayor to resign. It is no secret that there has been bad blood between the two, and while Perriott says she won’t go her future at City Hall remains uncertain tonight. According to Perriott, the request was put to her on Friday and she was told that if she did not resign, the matter would be taken up in Cabinet. Perriott refused to step down and on Monday sent off a scathing letter to the Mayor accusing her of lying and alleging that Moya has been giving her a bad name and using her as a scapegoat for the mayor’s unpopular decisions.</p><div align="justify"><br /></div><div align="justify"><strong></strong> </div><div align="justify"><strong>P.U.P. candidates protest financial nondisclosure in O.W.</strong></div><div><br /></div><div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbNiHaJ4f6sPC4SrJ_FYzHs-zaes4AKQVA2exOFdzTVMa7bQp892nA4VcTYvbszqv5fjTMzqxWTS_fXqy4ga0kN7e88_QmiDm1_gZ3V0Vlak9TDTn0a3j4bMQZYhFzzNwB4XdyKAf3k1UM/s1600-h/monchi.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296404322854513106" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 160px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 120px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbNiHaJ4f6sPC4SrJ_FYzHs-zaes4AKQVA2exOFdzTVMa7bQp892nA4VcTYvbszqv5fjTMzqxWTS_fXqy4ga0kN7e88_QmiDm1_gZ3V0Vlak9TDTn0a3j4bMQZYhFzzNwB4XdyKAf3k1UM/s320/monchi.jpg" border="0" /></a>It is political season and around the country both the incumbent U.D.P. and the opposition Peoples United Party, are on the campaign trail for the March fourth poll. As the election heats up, the buzz words of transparency and accountability are resonating as audits of town and city councils are still pending and accusations of irregularities continue to surface. In the last showdown at the October, 2008 U.D.P. convention in Belize City, Mayor Zenaida Moya was accused of unauthorized spending. Today in Orange Walk, the U.D.P. controlled council was challenged for nondisclosure of overdue financial statements. </div><div><br /></div><div align="justify"><strong>Jose Sanchez, Reporting:</strong>The heavy rains early morning did not deter a group of Orange Walkenos from protesting the failure of the Town Council to release financial statements of the Council. The group marched midtown to the Town Hall to present a petition singed by over 2000 persons to the U.D.P. Mayor Ravei Gonzalez. There have been rumblings of financial irregularities for some time and with the recent revelation of a loan made by the council from a Pawn Shop with a whopping fifty percent interest, the protesters were energized. </div><div><br /></div><div align="justify"><strong>Ramon Cervantes, P.U.P. Mayoral Candidate:</strong></div><div align="justify"><em>“Since November fourteenth, I sent a letter to the mayor asking for disclosure of the financial statements and record from 2006 to presents. He answered me about the beginning of December in a letter stating that the statements have been published in a local newspaper; it didn’t give the edition, the date, anything. In other words, he told us go and find it if you want. I think this is ample time this is over two months and the people want to know. The loan from a pawn shop for nine thousand dollars and they paid at a rate of fifty-nine percent yearly interest. Now that loan, in addition to the loan being made at such a usurious rate, it was falsified also because the voucher said that the loan was made from and paid to the Orange Walk Business Association, which in the Business Association had no knowledge of it. Actually, it was a pawn shop they loaned it from so it amounts to falsification also.”</em></div><div><br /><br /></div><div align="justify"></div><div><br /><br /></div><div align="justify"></div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-29593536049845584832009-01-26T18:27:00.000-08:002009-01-28T10:08:03.022-08:00MEET YOUR PUP CANDIDATES<div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2VbFxAOgxPWTlZGWfqoNxfTKtZSKPtXI4Gjd3Xud_1wDMdA9LVRvtjMlxBIv6Ha8i9R_m0LnaQlNgaF0xQbOGgB9nObcNwAy8PZCdP2sLqXiZtXWHc-JevCf6WfyZ6-XavrESpEx_xx2B/s1600-h/Top_Banner_-_New_Year_(Jan).jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295824280116854146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 435px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 104px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2VbFxAOgxPWTlZGWfqoNxfTKtZSKPtXI4Gjd3Xud_1wDMdA9LVRvtjMlxBIv6Ha8i9R_m0LnaQlNgaF0xQbOGgB9nObcNwAy8PZCdP2sLqXiZtXWHc-JevCf6WfyZ6-XavrESpEx_xx2B/s320/Top_Banner_-_New_Year_(Jan).jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:180%;">Road to '09<br /></span>The People's United Party (PUP) presented their slate which will contest Municipal Elections on March 4th, 2009. Pictured below are (l-r) Ana Najarro Cal, Ian Pou, Debbie Spain, Mayoral Candidate Baldemar Graniel, Marina Kay, Andre Perez and Vianie Perez.<br /><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify">In the coming weeks, <em>The San Pedro Sun </em>will introduce to you all the candidates from all the parties that plan to contest the elections. Below find mini-bios of three candidates from the PUP. </div><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyuz9XohJPcBEgb-XemaIVFTXI3NGdj1aTad22PkASWzEykiR6VzKn99Z-hK8ie-Uq7_Ya0W6aW3jGDfyT-Gwi51Ns_pSGQywRf-JuZzIdSgq9bQnAULzwdwVl1X3FyABZy53ah7zd7Mg/s1600-h/Road+to+09"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283022612739464274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 242px; HEIGHT: 299px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyuz9XohJPcBEgb-XemaIVFTXI3NGdj1aTad22PkASWzEykiR6VzKn99Z-hK8ie-Uq7_Ya0W6aW3jGDfyT-Gwi51Ns_pSGQywRf-JuZzIdSgq9bQnAULzwdwVl1X3FyABZy53ah7zd7Mg/s400/Road+to+09%27+PUP0001.JPG" border="0" /></a> <em><u>Mayoral Candidate, Baldemar Graniel</u></em> </div><br /><div align="left"><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify" align="justify"><strong>Baldemar Graniel</strong> is a 58-year-old “son of the soil.” Instrumental in the development of the island, Graniel served as one of the first councilors when the island was first named a town. As one of the first “political fire starters” on Ambergris Caye, Graniel had his hands full. Since then he has lead the troop as Mayor of San Pedro Town from 1992 – 1994. However, he was also a founding member of the San Pedro Lions Club, one of the leading community service oriented organizations on Ambergris Caye. As a member of the Lions Club, Graniel has served in the capacity of Lions President (1985 to 1986 and 1995 to 1996) but has also achieved the highest position within the Club and has lead the country’s Lions as District Governor. </div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify" align="justify">During his terms serving the community, Graniel was instrumental in the development of the island, especially as it relates to the Boca del Rio Area. “At that time, Boca del Rio was comprised of London bridges and had no potable water to speak of. During the time we served, I worked closely with WASA (Belize Water Services Limited) and assisted in the implementation of the water system in that area,” he explained.</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify">As a member of the community, Graniel also assisted in acquiring the island’s first water pump. “We used to operate with bucket brigades. We were still a village and we worked hard in getting a pump to assist in the extinguishing of fires.” Helping his brother out, the Graniel brothers operated the first water taxi and water ambulance on the island.<br />Today, Graniel is still part of the San Pedro Lions Club and as such, has acquired the position of Director for the San Pedro PolyClinic (a Lions venture). Through his directorship, he has been a liaison between the Government of Belize and the Lions to get the best benefits for the health of the community.</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify">A father of four, Graniel seeks the betterment of the community and through his decades of experience plans on bringing out the best that the island has to offer.</div></div><br /><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283022617091543298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 260px; HEIGHT: 313px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9CmsZbrS2WWUBEFcELQcUiJOrfH1dWFbUUlfaXeyzGbVaM5_6XQJKtATkiZGIOt6-tWyW4APvLJzeRT4ea-uC3cUXVdotaX83iwCowm6j4mb2nHLHgKdijdr2NDT_zYPZam4qKptJb6g/s400/Road+to+09%27+PUP0002.JPG" border="0" /><u><em>Ana Najarro </em></u></div><div align="left"><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify">Originally from Salvador, <strong>Ana Najarro</strong> has lived in the country of Belize since she was two months old. Her family first settled in San Ignacio and Najarro moved to San Pedro 12 years ago. Since then she has established herself as a successful businesswoman. Her first job on the island was as the assistant chef at Fido’s Courtyard, but today, the 28-year-old mother proudly runs her own businesses, namely Dianita’s Deli and Marcito’s Store both located on North Ambergris Caye. </div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify"> </div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify">As a strong woman in business, Najarro has understood the importance of budgeting. “Knowing your revenue and expenses, makes you understand and realize the way to move the business forward. As a voter, there are many things that one would like to get accomplished. However, not realizing the budget we may be quick to criticize. As such, being at the council will help me realize the way to move the island forward.” </div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify">Coming from Salvador, Najarro has found a desire to assist her fellow countrymen in any way that she can. She has served as Advisor on the board of the San Pedro Salvadoran community for the past seven years. Helping, volunteerism has always been in Najarro’s blood. Through that desire, she has taken part in the Red Cross and in the various radiothons that have been organized to help those in need. </div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify">“I understand that helping people does not necessarily mean getting involved in politics. In something that people consider ‘dirty’ but it only gets that way because of the players involved. If it is looked at it positively, then it does not have to be dirty. It is all a matter of keeping the best interests of the people at heart.”<br /></div></div></div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283022610814892050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 330px; HEIGHT: 248px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe1r0bm-SyDRtQTZ3-otSfstMbEMld-iA0b3vk-2q05HZIuMw7990ezOl1SmSVLNaMG-YygRC6DNWPexcHYGsvk1WazR7aJTcr52I6E18muAcFd5926BCgWht8rK50WcXDb2edfML24X4/s400/Road+to+09%27+PUP0000.JPG" border="0" /><u><em>Andre Perez</em></u> <p align="justify">Established as the proud owner of Casa Pan Dulce and Agua Dulce, <strong>Andre Perez</strong> is recognized as a savvy entrepreneur. A father of three beautiful girls, Perez, originally from Orange Walk Town, made Ambergris Caye his home 12 years ago. Casa Pan Dulce has grown leaps and bounds and Perez has become a respected figure in the industry. Protecting the rights of the 38 bakers countrywide, he has been named President of the Baker’s Association. As President he has been the liaison between government officials, bakers and consumers. When the flour crisis struck, Perez was instrumental in the negotiations between the present administration and the bakers; in the end the consumers benefitted. </p><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify">In San Pedro, Perez was one of the founding members of the San Pedro Business Association (SPBA) where he served as Vice President for three years. Through the efforts of SPBA in collaboration with the San Pedro Town Council, the cobblestone projects came to fruition. Perez also formed part of the Ambergris Caye Chamber of Commerce and worked hard to integrate the local business community in their ventures. “As part of ACCC we wanted to bridge the gap and include the local businesses.” </p><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify">With eight years banking experience, Perez is certain that he can work hard towards the benefit of our community.</p></div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-83159475478233972452009-01-26T18:13:00.000-08:002009-01-26T20:10:06.284-08:00SAN PEDRO MAYORAL CANDIDATES PREPARE FOR UPCOMING ELECTION<div style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;">Municipal Elections will be held on March 4<sup>th</sup> and</span></span><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"> Mayoral and Councilor candidates are campaigning in an effort to get the support of the electorate. As a result <span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">Love FM</span> has embarked on a “know your Mayoral candidate” initiative that will cover all nine municipalities across the country. We begin today with San Pedro. Incumbent United Democratic Party Mayor Elsa Paz along with her six councilor candidates are contesting the election for the third consecutive term. She is being challenged by former mayor Baldemar Graniel for the People’s United Party. We asked Graniel about his participation in this election:</span></span><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu0SN1SVaiD-z_M9uz9V_nxuQhO-0CCNjLkw9KyOp3njNxWz6dMFd04c1KHUf8rCwk33I-uklGrcIaszexRdLZx3zRggrov02P6in-ZwwdwgoNk_42qCIgIgSWKJwfRta5v8zmSbekCE9L/s1600-h/Baldemar.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295792832388510578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu0SN1SVaiD-z_M9uz9V_nxuQhO-0CCNjLkw9KyOp3njNxWz6dMFd04c1KHUf8rCwk33I-uklGrcIaszexRdLZx3zRggrov02P6in-ZwwdwgoNk_42qCIgIgSWKJwfRta5v8zmSbekCE9L/s320/Baldemar.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify">Baldemar Graniel; PUP Mayoral Candidate for San Pedro Town </div><span style="font-size:small;"><b><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><i><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><b><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify"><i><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;">“I have been quite separated from politics for a while but seeing how things are going in my beloved San Pedro I think there is a lot to be done. I decided to go in and try to do something about it because I think that we are being neglected by this present town council.”</span></span></i></p></span></span></b></span></span></i></span></span></b></span><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify"><br /><span style="font-size:small;"><b><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><i><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><b><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><i><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><b><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><i><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;">Graniel says he and his team will also focus on the overall improvement of San Pedro and this also includes infrastructure if they are elected. <p><b><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><p><i><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;">“My plans are to work according to the needs of the people. The people just need to tell me what they need, what your priority is and we will work on that. We have street and drains, parks and parks and beaches and as a tourist destination we need to ensure that our town in clean. Better solid waste and garbage management and better management of the accounts. We have not had the budget of the town council reported to us. We used to have a simmer program for the youths, nothing like that is being done on their budget for this year or last year. We need to improve education and the health facilities here on the island too.”<span style="font-size:0;"> </span></span></span></i></p></span></span></b><p></p></span></span></span></span></i></span></span></b></span></span></span></span></i></span></span></b></span></span></i></span></span></b></span><br /><span style="font-size:small;"><b><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><i><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><b><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><i><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><b><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><i><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><p><b><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><p><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><b><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><i><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><b><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><i><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><b><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><i><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><b><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><i><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><b><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><i><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><b><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><i><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;">“I know that I can accomplish a lot more than they have accomplished. We are working as a team for the last two years so I am asking the community to come out on March 4 and vote PUP seven.” </span></span></i></span></span></b></span></span></i></span></span></b></span></span></span></span></i></span></span></b></span></span></span></span></i></span></span></b></span></span></span></span></i></span></span></b></span></span></i></span></span></b></span></span></p></span></span></b><p></p></span></span></span></span></i></span></span></b></span></span></span></span></i></span></span></b></span></span></i></span></span></b></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:small;"><b><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><i><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><b><span style="font-size:0;"><span style="font-size:small;"><p></p></span></span></b></span></span></i></span></span></b></span>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-48657490565777850942009-01-12T20:03:00.000-08:002009-01-12T21:21:59.447-08:00PUP ENDORSEMENT CONVENTION A HUGE SUCCESS!<div align="justify"><br /></div><div align="justify"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290626041373517682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 358px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 269px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ6WXbzPYCRInGb4E4q-v20aZO2eHJIDcXFDFlYWYlZRusZbXj9hzQvOTIFmqeVDXEwYOt677Ka47C2fZ69KQ-UuQRMzX3WvcRXwtB3LxwogU-lH8qHUGLG6lLnWEgPBIsqs0wuNZahlrN/s320/DSCF6286.jpg" border="0" /><em>(PUP 7...WILLING, READY AND ABLE!)</em></div><em><div align="justify"><br /></div><div align="justify"></em><span style="font-family:arial;">On Saturday, January 10, the People’s United Party (PUP) Belize Rural South Constituency held its Endorsement Convention to present their team of 7 contesting the upcoming Municipal Elections on the island of San Pedro.<br /></span><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290626684800320258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY1eeLEZ9xhAPH8WezkSAyV3iVhJvI3VUHBUmjTOqDi3NgBjkHx6oaGXF9CJiui4vpsKLdcqyy11OlMI-nSE9FsAt-pAQMHCGVLAXs_53I1kgf7oxRiBEFq5qif8tKxw4bio3t2-dssIE-/s320/PUP_Convention19%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center">(<em>Mayoral Candidate, Baldemar Graniel "Don Baldi")</em><br /></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290627103498460050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwahLNHImndhQKremauaW1-SKcMVCD3re_luz3RWWcAkobz4W7yho7BFyTDmcsRxJWNKbnd3W0H00usQhZ3l04MqiRE4LuCgq1jB5s7E-kNEX17LM8cvCVxjdndg1Q7AOEa_6_q0hjQQaE/s320/DSCF6245.jpg" border="0" /> <span style="font-family:Arial;">Leading the team is long-time political veteran and former Town Councilor and Mayor, Mr. Baldemar Graniel. The team includes candidates: Ana Najarro Cal, Andre Perez, Debbie Spain, Ian Pou, Marina Kay and Viana Perez. Running on a slogan of being “Ready, Willing and Able”, the PUP 7 seeks to unseat and replace the present UDP councilors who have formed the San Pedro Town Council for the past 6 years. </span><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290627723999123506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhwLipW7TngNF3ek1Y7qOCLfyr2N8q4V_gQszFW287ilvHRzVdfaVHSdY6r_86aH2RUuuezhfde98BohMv1HQ38X-mpsNW8ecOKmJc6okxpSmXgX0pe-2VZaWH1M5aap8hzmrSni4q5hNe/s320/DSCF6248.jpg" border="0" /><br /><p align="center">(<em>PUP 7, WILLING, READY AND ABLE)</em><br /><br /></p><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;">The endorsement convention featured key speakers such as Party Leader Johnny Briceno, Acting Secretary General, Servulo Baeza, former area representative Patty Arceo, former standbearer, Mel Spain, Senator Eiden Salazar and Chair of the United Women's Group, Martha Carrillo was held at the Angel Nunez Auditorium.<br /></span></div><br /><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290636645416766482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNndatphgSq_4FlDd2FEFDvE2P4Lz0D5HJlFEXn5-KkZP-ftCInKjtjIC6ZI2Rrp2IWbBa51JfiB1CzTTLwVeUGNYJlEYvt_KXgTvUE3-fXpXno9cjaIb1AvZixc5Uqsg-5hqyGeby3_fD/s320/New+Image10.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div align="center">(<em>Party Officials and Main Speakers)</em> </div><br /></div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290629749443687314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDnRipsDzm2lggs8Xhdo8LVnKouk17dQGcWRPKopsIT9xtKUVao9QG4UaL88mOOav5eM2b-5FB20W7z4gswJ3nCT0IX384iXw_LP9mm18YgAREaVNBeKZQwlBtCl3NC0VkxNLady4DzOEi/s320/New+Image3.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div align="center"><em>(Key Speaker, Party Leader Johnny Briceno)</em></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290632170245696114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUGPGlwoZQ81o4H5IHNeZLUpi2tDepNSXVA3Rx1nI4Y0bz5V1e-EChNfI2klSUlDVD15ghHY7tI0f_r7anCbjbYNUP7oeOZRhyphenhyphen06FnOgHOyFHK__IdXksaT_wkZZuZrKjmtTpNkb-r-5c1/s320/New+Image6.JPG" border="0" /><em>(Acting Secretary General Servulo Baeza officiated the Convention)</em><br /><br /></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:arial;">An estimated 400 supporters and friends greeted candidates and party officials while joining in the strong and loud chant of "PUP...ALL THE WAY!!" </span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290642956093695474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDHbZRK18RtiCR2ZHvwRbPJFbzLBdjiSyrRJd2RDA2TH5jC8FtsGd7fQzOynVBC9i9RIBqiCM1KSz4fQMjb2S2MgPnm-YRJZfCQX2XM2P9aLPR48eWfTamLlgUIPjfU2fUANUqe38BJRY5/s320/New+Image7.JPG" border="0" /><em>(Former Standbearer, Mel Spain presented the Welcome Address)</em> </div><br /><div align="justify"></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290635779376411826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXqIfBcvHxsRR_EHezJC7-5Re1D3zYJMlhs8BIsTom2yKGB2xA-xFUyYW_FbZXO6gNAjV7H1J5T-4lP7f5tV_9oDjFHKQlvdIrkSevc4waWaSKcRLkOuVzT0LIMsPa9fp40b0rOnGb5OxI/s320/New+Image9.JPG" border="0" /> <p align="center"> (<em>Former Area Representative, Patty Arceo)</em> </p><div align="justify"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290630529273265778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaSKB6oWot-m-iKLhdEsnM4YIkQjkSBLoSjRenyi-vsO47owFplobMlIVZ0-AzUdvRsTC4r1VA0y0tbv-HNrhfuuvgpD5IOCKnyPslD1HExyMVV_fy6DbFT1_jWFZPW9xcsMrgyOCz7mXP/s320/New+Image4.JPG" border="0" /></div><p align="center"><em>(Senator, Eiden Salazar)<br /></em><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290631253773420802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNZHf7JDIrx35SZYlQpAn1ue9b7C7trCgZZjY8o_Tw1J9EcrVV-2e0V-34ZEWWiQmlbs9Xa3YMTZsWuo6rnejOWAHODZoniLqjwYVK_0iKiL_Lc9YucLs1mZ9DpFfQRbNirejszMdb15j5/s320/New+Image5.JPG" border="0" />(<em>Chairperson, United Women's Group - Martha Carrillo)</em></p><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290638499769532706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6k4uvvngqUulJPkRJQvjlep4yiN2EVGVqrvLwX0SGSX7bZBTYIwYCGBVyMBjM8O43gNJeXQm_QDDqXyNJ_nSGa9jHzta8U3XIDZrCu-NDN6CwUJqEJfTNZL-mX_54iA_Qad_v3pC4DxKX/s320/New+Image11.JPG" border="0" /><em>(Masters of Ceremonies, Jorge Aldana)</em></div><br /><p>More pictures of the convention will be posted shortly....</p>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-89474644563976017842009-01-08T08:25:00.000-08:002009-01-08T08:43:55.897-08:00MASSIVE PUP ENDORSEMENT CONVENTION!!<div align="center"><span style="color:#000066;"></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNlSzN65SrctftVJeIY-Qv37czkj4kqciaqpeH94dQqwr1gnitRIzVhUcRjoIF507ux-puEHTJvnixrzHBayCbQkwKCYnkyyxpNkjsbXdgj9n8Px2ja_4p6GGfOgr-nInpftiN_gqkNDvO/s1600-h/2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288960257814869938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 338px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 226px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNlSzN65SrctftVJeIY-Qv37czkj4kqciaqpeH94dQqwr1gnitRIzVhUcRjoIF507ux-puEHTJvnixrzHBayCbQkwKCYnkyyxpNkjsbXdgj9n8Px2ja_4p6GGfOgr-nInpftiN_gqkNDvO/s320/2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"><strong>THE DYNAMIC PUP 7 </strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"><strong>CORDIALLY INVITE ONE AND ALL </strong></span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"><strong>TO</strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"><strong> </strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;color:#000066;"><strong><em>THE MASSIVE PUP CANDIDATES ENDORSEMENT CONVENTION</em></strong></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"><strong>WHERE? - ANGEL NUNEZ AUDITORIUM</strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"><strong>WHEN: SAT. JANUARY 10TH AT 7PM</strong></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"><strong>COME LISTEN TO PARTY LEADER: </strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"><strong>JOHNNY BRICENO</strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"><strong>&</strong></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"><strong>DEPUTY PARTY LEADERS:</strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><span style="color:#000099;"><strong>MARK ESPAT &</strong></span><span style="color:#000099;"><strong>CORDEL HYDE</strong></span></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"><strong>MUSIC, FOOD AND DRINKS GALORE!!!!!!!!!</strong></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"><strong>COME BE A PART OF THE NEW FORCE FOR CHANGE!</strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#000099;"><strong>PUP7 ALL THE WAY!</strong></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></div></div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-48411181763782555922009-01-07T10:20:00.000-08:002009-01-07T10:28:30.061-08:00VOTERS REGISTRATION DEADLINE!<span style="font-family:arial;"></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixEtq0Jkh52sy8uFJhhhtXRf5izHPdEXMd6bOBqa36jwXqqJ-GHK6zUJtFh7r020SOwyFDwsqXhJwzdlDkaVBo493K15miX8XcwmEaay-JsRuLLceM7xxVnQmsVaV1BxIyGjjZ2UDLseGH/s1600-h/mainheader2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288619322336640562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 465px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 84px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixEtq0Jkh52sy8uFJhhhtXRf5izHPdEXMd6bOBqa36jwXqqJ-GHK6zUJtFh7r020SOwyFDwsqXhJwzdlDkaVBo493K15miX8XcwmEaay-JsRuLLceM7xxVnQmsVaV1BxIyGjjZ2UDLseGH/s320/mainheader2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:courier new;font-size:180%;color:#000066;">JANUARY 10TH -DEADLINE </span></strong></div><br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:courier new;font-size:180%;color:#000066;">FOR FIRST TIME VOTERS REGISTRATION!</span></strong></div><br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:courier new;font-size:180%;color:#000066;"></span></strong></div><br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:courier new;font-size:180%;color:#000066;">REGISTER TODAY!</span></strong></div><br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:courier new;font-size:180%;color:#000066;"></span></strong></div><br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:courier new;font-size:180%;color:#000066;">EXERCISE YOUR RIGHT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE!</span></strong></div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-9653989051152268982009-01-05T08:57:00.000-08:002009-01-05T09:12:51.986-08:00PUP CANDIDATES START CAMPAIGN IN SAN MATEO<div align="justify"><strong><span style="color:#000066;"></span></strong><br /></div><div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjACTH12UECDSQc_sg3G-OJqreTS14p_SxcPGbxjackFba9h9Dv9TTLJBKCbSBwbxxd6mtLtgOlWPEihKI7eP_oCxDJKc0ElHHZvmcAXeNMrwH0GXpzeCRDT6dIsMGwJ6Rio2Sv4vdsJOHU/s1600-h/watermarked_(2).JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287855557687060178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjACTH12UECDSQc_sg3G-OJqreTS14p_SxcPGbxjackFba9h9Dv9TTLJBKCbSBwbxxd6mtLtgOlWPEihKI7eP_oCxDJKc0ElHHZvmcAXeNMrwH0GXpzeCRDT6dIsMGwJ6Rio2Sv4vdsJOHU/s320/watermarked_(2).JPG" border="0" /></a> The seven candidates for the People’s United Party (PUP) have hit the ground running. Announcement of the slate was recently made and according to Chairman and Candidate Andre Perez, “we were eager to start talking to the constituents to find out what their issues were.”<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287856880396509810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_TADykBoxbul23tqvzw-YVLMAwbDj5QMbsCFEIwrhuTyPJM6x53SCfg6oMJEEKBJK0_qXfCcppy2MdLtCE9z_csUm7LWXnIOziej2LLu6UIvMkVu38LboeFey0vU1O3cgPvNw16wyaSSf/s320/PUP_campaigns0001.JPG" border="0" /> One of the areas most affected by lack of government support, according to Perez, is the San Mateo Subdivision which was the area of greatest concern for the candidates. The conditions in which the constituents are living are to some extent deplorable and the PUP Seven were there to hear the cries of the people.</div><div align="justify"><br /></div><div align="justify"></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287856305369026322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWJsB0QLmrpHs7kCXmYt2mV8SxCT68eDhhjM4K9KulfGlnOkP6jnBL5KslMslUHPtKB-ok7ashfvQUmmyj7LqO48X-3PUyyRYPKO0WxgVrzjzSRVGe0UO-qXbcxvkaYtjc79wtXaageLtV/s320/PUP_campaigns0002.JPG" border="0" /> <p align="justify">Mayoral Candidate Baldemar Graniel, along with Marina Kay, Ana Cal Najarro, Ian Pou, Andre Perez, Vianie Perez and Debbie Spain spoke to individual household members ensuring to take time to discuss the possibilities that a new administration might bring. “We are not promising to fill in the entire area as has been previously promised but yet nothing has been done. The priority for these residents is to get proper road access and that is one of the issues that we will be tackling,” commented Graniel.<br /></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287857522021876370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtqOGXksEeymm_GeP0QRSRS6QLptBlDAaQ3Siraqvvc1coKWKAVgttzg3iyfV9Hb8LAHeTdJV5tIFCFM24LBPDxctW3l1d6ebuUqClPlKD71IGaNze6yCIRE26GHEd4fLwuJd98m8eBkeH/s320/PUP_campaigns0000.JPG" border="0" />The road to elections in March 9th have already started to get paved. In the near future, all candidates will be presenting their agendas.<br /><br /><div align="justify">(<em>Story and pics courtesy The San Pedro Sun newspaper)</em></div><br /><br /><br /><div align="justify"><em></em></div><br /><br /><br /><div align="justify"></div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-8074218520014673962008-12-20T10:01:00.000-08:002008-12-22T08:07:48.510-08:00<div align="justify"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281934417973014210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 229px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 72px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3amHT761coW5vhDOycRH8MNAmj0ABTgQedXuDSQFvqyzYpWxRFLWo5tldtJNjbf9kaQ-Y8jAFX9Xk1B5zYO6Q8u73Mc-tWR_TxjaKBg4bn7rPzV0ycthNQ3wQwvge6Xx1lvB2kD2uMWFl/s320/Gay+Today+logo.jpg" border="0" /><br />As soon as <em>Ambergris Today</em> hit the streets last week, it began flying off the shelves and we knew it was due to the announcement of the PUP slate for next year’s town council election. The other big headlines were San Pedro’s first author and book launching, and the fabulous light boat parade but people kept asking our reporters why is it we did not carry any words from the candidates.<br /><br /><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281934416925378642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 251px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2647gKXa3-OFOV27MBUugXM154krI-ys-B0hHntlrjLUaXwKv1XVmDgVqvsjJt843dctNet3F5eEXlKHrPhD99zWTdICYUi0p2s_lYMeYvZVHjuw6F4MLOPZ6b4ij02NfbvnwErkTJ5ax/s320/Ambergris+Today+Photo.jpg" border="0" /> <em>Councilor Candidate Andre Perez, Mayoral Candidate Baldemar Graniel, Councilor Candidate Debbie Spain</em></p><p><em>Ambergris Today</em> immediately set out to request an interview with Mr. Baldemar Graniel, the mayoral candidate, and fortunately for us he conceded us an interview. We are conscious that it is too early to ask him about the platform and issues under which they will campaign, so we were careful with our questions.</p><p><br /><strong>Ambergris Today (A.T.)</strong> Mr. Graniel, the announcement of your name was a surprise to us, and most of San Pedro, I am sure. Why did you decide to run for this office? </p><p><br /><strong>Graniel: </strong>I decided because I am confident that I have a lot to offer to my town. I would not have joined the race if I thought I don’t have anything new or better. I have a good idea of where this town needs to go and how to get there. Right now the town is going ahead but at a great cost or loss. </p><p><br /><strong>A.T.</strong> Is that the only reason? </p><p><br /><strong>Graniel:</strong> No, I also decided to run because I know that I can win, because the people know that they will win with me also. I am not running for any personal interest. I am running for my people, and I mean Sanpedranos and all residents who deserve better. </p><p><br /><strong>A.T.</strong> It is said around the town that you had already retired from politics, so why again?</p><p><br /><strong>Graniel:</strong> I served many years as councilor and as mayor too, but I did not retire. I just did not run for a while, but I kept serving and governing the interests of my town. I was in charge of the Poly Clinic which is a big responsibility. As mayor I gained a lot of knowledge and experience, which I can use to continue my work for San Pedro because I see a lot of things going wrong with infrastructure, streets, parks, sale of lots to investors instead of to locals, poor investment development, traffic, accounts management and planning in general. </p><p><br /><strong>A.T.</strong> Are you sure, Mr. Graniel? Some people are saying that the reason you are running is that you did not want your daughter to run as mayor and that you did not want Andre Perez to run either. </p><p><br /><strong>Graniel:</strong> (<em>with a big smile</em>) I believe my daughter is as prepared, or better prepared, than me to run for mayor and if she wanted I would have supported her and not run against her. As for Andre Perez, I have a lot of respect for him as a responsible, hard working, intelligent and most important honest person and leader. If I did not like him, I would not run with him in my team like the other group who was promised to be beaten up and being chased out. I believe in teamwork. When I am mayor, every councilor will have equal voice and every San Pedro resident will be listened to. </p><p><br /><strong>A.T:</strong> What do you promise, Mr. Graniel? </p><p><br /><strong>Graniel:</strong> I promise hard work, communication, transparency, accountability, equality, respect and honesty. Is that enough? (<em>big smile</em>)<br /><strong>A.T.</strong> That’s not what I mean. What do you promise to the people?<br /><strong>Graniel:</strong> I repeat, all of what I said before (meaning all of the above last statement). I do not like to promise things. I see what the needs are and go to work. I can promise more cobblestone streets, classrooms, water, sewer, less crime, hospital, etc. but I prefer to see the needs first and go to work.<br /><strong>A.T.</strong> Have you always been a PUP? </p><p align="justify"><br /><strong>Graniel:</strong> (<em>huge smile</em>) I have always been a Graniel because I believe in the integrity of my family. I have always been a PUP because I believe in the philosophy To Serve. I don’t change my religion or my party. I know some PUP’s have made mistakes but that is the individual and new leaders come and the job goes on. So I ask those PUP’s who were vex for errors of the past and left the party, to come back and be the PUP’s that George Price taught us. In every party there are people who make big mistakes. I make mistakes too but nothing scandalous and nobody in this world can point a finger at me and say I am dishonest or that I have mismanaged their business. </p><p align="justify"><br /><strong>A.T.</strong> Thank you, Mr. Graniel for being so quick to accept our interview request. </p><p align="justify"><br /><strong>Graniel.</strong> Thank you, Dorian for the opportunity to let the people know me. All Sanpedranos know me, but every resident should know that I mean good for everyone, not only the Blue’s. San Pedro is for all of us and all of us are for San Pedro.</p><div align="right"><em>Reprinted from the Ambergris Today Newspaper </em></div><div align="right"><em>Volume 10 - No. 49</em></div><div align="right"><em>Dated: December 18th, 2008</em></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-25388321417068722692008-12-09T11:47:00.000-08:002008-12-09T11:58:37.876-08:00PUP DYNAMIC 7 - READY, WILLING AND ABLE!<strong><span style="color:#000066;">PUP 7 IN SAN PEDRO – READY FOR VICTORY IN MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS '09!!!</span></strong><br /><br /><br /><div align="justify"></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277881119904677490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 186px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSpAiLOZZlgdwVC0gkpqf7v7be9lsuxwk3nZLqE5KM9nzN5H4cA4pQgIu7SOAySdPSG9Xl63jagy2Wu3fZ32xxDHFLr-bLtqrAnHh9FvwEefVJonK3HOmHLG2k_6jM731Grrosu36mcvyG/s320/DSCF0187.JPG" border="0" /> <p align="center">(<em>Photograph courtesy San Pedro Sun)</em><br /></p><div align="justify">Under a stalwart new leadership and with a new vision crafted out of the core principles of respect and service to the people, a rejuvenated People’s United Party is set on a course to victory in the Municipal Elections come 2009. </div><div align="justify"><br />In San Pedro after careful deliberation and much consultation with the electorate, the PUP Belize Rural South Executive has successful selected its 6 Councilors and 1 Mayoral candidate to contest the upcoming Municipal Elections. </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="color:#000099;"><strong>The solid slate of 7 dynamic and qualified candidates is comprised of:</strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><br />Mr. Baldemar Graniel – Mayoral Candidate<br /></div><div align="justify">Councilor Candidates:<br /></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;">Ms. Ana Najarro<br />Mr. Andre Perez<br />Ms. Debbie Spain<br />Mrs. Marina Kay<br />Mr. Ian Pou<br />Ms. Viannie Perez<br /></span></div><div align="justify">The 7 PUP municipal candidates were endorsed on Monday, December 08, 2008 at the Party’s Secretariat in San Pedro. </div><div align="justify"><br />Having worked closely with the re-building of the PUP Belize Rural South with a renewed vision of service to the people and a conviction that the People’s United Party is the only true party for and of the people, the committed team of 7 pledged zero tolerance for lack of transparency while pledging to put people first to ensure social justice, equal opportunities and prosperity for all.<br /></div><div align="justify">The PUP San Pedro Candidates will be endorsed at an upcoming Party Convention to be announced shortly while the San Pedro Vibes newsletter will be presenting the 7 candidates to you “up close and personal” in its upcoming issue.</div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-44814694056983575972008-12-03T21:44:00.000-08:002008-12-08T15:59:41.470-08:00SAN PEDRO UDP TOWN COUNCIL – STILL NO ANSWERS!<div align="justify">On Wednesday night, at the Lion’s Den the San Pedro Town Council presented its 2006-2009 Financial Report. In front of a live audience and on local radio and television Mayor Elsa Paz pulled a fast one on the residents of San Pedro. </div><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL_3oxicwigGLLd4CsciJYTclExHb1-oNbWgK12tGYtZHiXT8SP3-sHKF55AIu8wTY2qiz8z0Ebmeqe4Chw7PjJkr2sZLLkKeqC9NGi0KDmo9-KawFfjPkE4yx5T1ssJXCIWa7VtLCyQUP/s1600-h/UDP+AUDIT+REPORT+041.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275809443760796994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhdKkKzHNZEKn3DiAZWrAwS9Z9LwGH2M_CBESOVzZHJiiFtdFBfZOaBU2az43Gn4GOtkTwWpJVPf1Ih4ZB5kk_Bq3vxa73oWl5c_ukf5OdNcU8aP2fXJ8oe93RlSAsuhcD4jPElt7xtpmA/s320/now+dats+ugly.JPG" border="0" /></a> <em>Pretending to be smarter than the electorate...Mayor Paz pulls a fast one!</em></div><em></em><div align="justify"><br />Mayor Paz and her Town Council failed to provide the real answers that the people have been requesting regarding allegations of mismanagement of funds resulting from recent Audit Reports at the Town Council. </div><div align="justify"><br />Contrary to her promise to provide all the answers to questions that the Auditor General has raised and address any questions that residents of San Pedro and the media had regarding the Audit Report, Mayor Paz presented a long and elaborate financial report for her Council’s 2006-2009 Report to a small audience mainly made up of PUP supporters and Council employees.</div><div align="justify"><br />The Mayor started off her report by indicating that previous reports have been presented under different circumstances and in different manners. She failed to recognize that transparency and accountability is not defined by presenting important financial reports on a talk show, newsletter or ad hoc meetings at the San Pedro Town Council. The Council’s failure to make published copies of these financial and audit reports says a lot about their lack of respect for the people of San Pedro. By asking people to write a letter, wait for an appointment; sit with Town Council clerks for a limited amount of time, Mayor Paz and her Town Council have the mistaken notion of what it means to truly and genuinely be open and transparent with their financial books.<br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275809453433808674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKHfAk04a7-KbYsroghRlFi3E4hRmuejWAV7AHAEoEPj2KPeFdqG9TQ93gKDu5OMF_eQB51XrgB4njK_fKq-67KgFbh5eNtvnlRErhYZIpQQeuyOWxGYhuk2FK8dEzzO-hZVO0IpDLWC9z/s320/doozin+off.JPG" border="0" /> <p align="center"><em>Councilors were fast asleep during the Mayor's Presentation</em></p><em></em><p align="justify">Very evident was the lack of involvement in the discussions on the part of the Town Councilors who remained mute for the entire presentations. At some point some of them seemed very distant from the entire proceedings as they dozed off dreaming of making the illusive UDP possibilities a reality. Poised and ready to respond to all questions and to take advantage of the opportunity to blow his own horn was Hon. Heredia, Area Rep. and Minister of Tourism who appeared as Mayor Paz’ side-man and bouncer. Apparently, speaking of his accomplishments was supposed to over-shadow the fact that the Mayor can still not provide the true answers that the people of San Pedro are demanding.<br /><br /></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275809460083386210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL_3oxicwigGLLd4CsciJYTclExHb1-oNbWgK12tGYtZHiXT8SP3-sHKF55AIu8wTY2qiz8z0Ebmeqe4Chw7PjJkr2sZLLkKeqC9NGi0KDmo9-KawFfjPkE4yx5T1ssJXCIWa7VtLCyQUP/s320/UDP+AUDIT+REPORT+041.JPG" border="0" /> <p align="center"><em>Minister Heredia tried to steal the show from the SPTC</em><br /></p><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify">When asked about the answers to major questions raised by the Auditor General’s Report Mayor Paz tried to dodge this bullet by saying that these will be presented in a future meeting. Mayor Paz, the people of San Pedro and the electorate can not and will not be taken for fools. We are waiting for the answers and we will hold you to your word that another meeting will be held. Until then you remain quoted as “I have answers, I have answers”. </div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-63518369490400192822008-12-01T21:42:00.000-08:002008-12-08T16:00:44.980-08:00San Pedro High on the Regional map<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSKPjN_eaSzJ3a3SZICEkDcCUlSG8ucKMoelVigOblzGYn4k9B3x7ZKZNw1b1U1ZWY1qDWFLoqaawTh5RUmRn5rPfEOuITf9D5B11EHATxcP13IC81Vj6OWKdUG2Zsh6zxL9nOWv-YFjq5/s1600-h/Ambergris_Today.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275066755492897058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 232px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 80px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSKPjN_eaSzJ3a3SZICEkDcCUlSG8ucKMoelVigOblzGYn4k9B3x7ZKZNw1b1U1ZWY1qDWFLoqaawTh5RUmRn5rPfEOuITf9D5B11EHATxcP13IC81Vj6OWKdUG2Zsh6zxL9nOWv-YFjq5/s320/Ambergris_Today.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhV39YTqevxHG2y7WBKJ5Uk88cG7uvccxKicQjKN0eKiX5IyziPZws5l6bFpU2uuYe_b9TeZW6X1Ww7f_tKmtea-q8NVyHVwvoUD215_Nbju2u1s-fh9N_8dG-w83pDLe2KYMDnrSemuBM/s1600-h/High+School+kids.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275066246218320770" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhV39YTqevxHG2y7WBKJ5Uk88cG7uvccxKicQjKN0eKiX5IyziPZws5l6bFpU2uuYe_b9TeZW6X1Ww7f_tKmtea-q8NVyHVwvoUD215_Nbju2u1s-fh9N_8dG-w83pDLe2KYMDnrSemuBM/s320/High+School+kids.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>Two students of San Pedro High were part of the Belize team that has emerged the Champions in the Caribbean Regional Food and Nutrition Competition held in the Caribbean Island Country of St. Kitts & Nevis. Pedro Garcia and Gabby Miranda of San Pedro High joined forces with Edgardo Serrut of SHC and Santiago Hernandez of OWTH to form the Belize Team.<br />The road to this victory was not easy, but worth every bit of time, talent, skills, and effort. First SPHS had to compete with schools from Belize City to become the Belize District Champs. Secondly they had to compete with schools from the North and West and South to become the National Champs.<br /></div><div>After this it was the long road to the Caribbean Championship. Fourteen countries in the Caribbean participated via the internet and the Belize Team was among the top eight teams. Then in the next round Belize competed with six other countries and did well advancing to the final round of three. In the final round of three, our Belize Team came in first with Antigua behind them. So now the trip for the finals was in St. Kitts & Nevis where our Belize Team went head to head with Antigua.<br /></div><div>The rest is now history as the news is out that Pedro, Gabby, Edgardo and Santiago, The Belize Team, are this year’s Caribbean Champions. Congratulations to San Pedro High, Sacred Heart College and Orange Walk Technical for making Belize shine in the Caribbean. This deserves a parade and a holiday for San Pedro High.</div><div align="right"><strong><span style="color:#333333;">Volume 10 #46</span></strong></div><div align="right"><a href="http://www.ambergriscayenews.com/html/archives.php?p=112708#_st2"><strong><span style="color:#333333;">http://www.ambergriscayenews.com/html/archives.php?p=112708#_st2</span></strong></a></div><div></div><div><strong>Chairman's message:</strong></div><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong><em>On behalf of the People's United Party, we take this opportunity to congratulate your grand acheivement. Your hard work, dedication and arduos studying paid off. You have made San Pedro and Belize proud. </em></strong></div><div><strong><em></em></strong></div><div><strong><em>To the San Pedro High School, kudus for raising the bar, putting San Pedro high on the regional map, and for providing exceptional education.</em></strong></div></div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-91243396436277960202008-12-01T21:28:00.000-08:002008-12-01T21:40:27.634-08:00WORLD AIDS DAY<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixLkWDoftcvfd_zsnsukvTBbvrwHK_ZfIGRVYWbn9KHrUuP0LceykC18eyf2_797kEyRUgIeIc_yKVYm4oEmZJUXFwEnVFEmbvFqIr0o8HfmoZAp6K-nyjOdhF7XQYi1fsvDsRndh2m0Pf/s1600-h/logo4.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275063021284175938" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 62px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 104px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixLkWDoftcvfd_zsnsukvTBbvrwHK_ZfIGRVYWbn9KHrUuP0LceykC18eyf2_797kEyRUgIeIc_yKVYm4oEmZJUXFwEnVFEmbvFqIr0o8HfmoZAp6K-nyjOdhF7XQYi1fsvDsRndh2m0Pf/s320/logo4.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><div>The <strong>People's United Party Belize Rural South</strong> joins the <strong>National AIDS Commission</strong> and all other partners in the fight against the scourge of HIV in commemorating World AIDS Day 2008. We remember those that have fallen victim to this virus and make a call for collective and individual response to prevent the further spread of this epidemic while providing comfort and support to those most affected. </div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-18058389262761314852008-12-01T06:17:00.000-08:002008-12-01T06:18:55.346-08:00Auditor General Report<strong><u>5.2 Non-collection of Outstanding Debt for Golf Cart:</u></strong> On 17th December, 2003 the Council directed the Town Administrator to draft a letter requesting the return of the sum of $6000.00 for the delivery of golf cart to the Council by an individual by the 31st January, 2004. On 14th March, 2006, the individual offered the Council a pickup valued at $7000.00 in exchange for the $6,000.00 debt he had for the Council. <br /> In our initial report, the audit office requested responses to the following questions:<br />· Why was the individual paid the $6,000.00 up front without the golf cart being presented to the Council and examined by a competent mechanic?<br />· Why didn’t the Council purchase its own cart as it does with its other vehicles?<br />· Why weren’t legal proceedings instituted against the individual since the Council could prove, by way of paid voucher and cancelled cheque that he was paid for a golf cart that he did not deliver to the Council?<br />Has the Council tried to collect the $6,000.00 from the individual since 14th March, 2006? If not, what is its intention in finally settling this long outstanding matter? <br /><br /><strong><u>5.3 Bank Reconciliation:</u></strong> During the period 1st April, 2001 to 31st July, 2006 it was noted that Belize Bank Account 5013496 was repeatedly debited in respect of dishonored cheques and up to the end of the inspection it was not seen where they were made good by the person/s involved. The Office of the Auditor General therefore suggested that the Council pursue all avenues in collecting these monies due the Council. Our office also recommended that the Council ensure that in the future cheques are cleared first by the bank before receipts are prepared and issued. <br /><br /><strong><u>5.4 Survey Services:</u></strong> A total of $12,500.00 was paid to an individual for survey services around Caribbean Coves Sub Division and Ambergris Stadium. Audit visited the location but it was impossible to access as the area was a swamp. The Office of the Auditor General requested that the Council inform how they ascertained that the work paid for was carried out since no markers could have been seen.<br /><br /><div align="center"><br /><strong><span style="font-size:180%;">Important PUP Meeting—Tonight<br />Location: PUP Headquarters, Angel Coral Street<br />Time: 7:00 p.m.<br />Date: December 1st, 2008</span></strong><br /> </div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-39398006851123937352008-11-29T10:10:00.000-08:002008-11-29T10:11:31.443-08:00Portrait of a TRUE winner<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkLnCCle8sJS0cNsr_wPTMXgk5Nh_6uQcnbT-HGSuGubO9VwWR9-tJj3_bEzQtnmbA5evZ0QRaFpRrwOzJAM9D-q2KS5dHJjnuX55r3u62j-AEvnZVsVmwI6FMCGfZH_jWBZCMqUlnPPJb/s1600-h/07cartoon-noviembre2008.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274143749768475266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 247px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkLnCCle8sJS0cNsr_wPTMXgk5Nh_6uQcnbT-HGSuGubO9VwWR9-tJj3_bEzQtnmbA5evZ0QRaFpRrwOzJAM9D-q2KS5dHJjnuX55r3u62j-AEvnZVsVmwI6FMCGfZH_jWBZCMqUlnPPJb/s320/07cartoon-noviembre2008.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-78025114901123467742008-11-29T10:04:00.000-08:002008-11-29T10:08:04.007-08:00Statement from the PUP<div align="left"><strong>PEOPLES’ UNITED PARTY<br /></strong>3 Queen Street, P.O. Box 506<br />Tel: 223-2428, 224-5886 Fax: 223-3476<br /><br />STATEMENT<br /><br /><em>Tuesday, November 24, 2008</em> --- After meeting this morning at Independence Hall, the National Executive of the People’s United Party announces the following unanimous decisions: </div><div align="left"><br />1. The Standard-bearer Convention hosted on Sunday 23 November 2008 in the Corozal South East Constituency is NULL AND VOID and in constitutional breach of the National Executive’s direction. Following the Municipal Elections in March 2009, the Party will announce the time table for standard-bearer conventions in all 31 constituencies, at which time Corozal South East will be required to have its official convention. <br /></div><div align="left">2. The National Executive, empowered under Article 9 Section 6 of the PUP Constitution, expels forthwith the Corozal South East Constituency Chairman and suspends that Branch Committee for failing to carry out the decision of the National Executive. Fresh elections will be held shortly to elect a new PUP Constituency Branch Executive in Corozal Southeast.<br /></div><div align="left">3. The National Executive directs the Secretary General to conduct elections no later than Sunday 30 November, for a new Executive, including a new Chairman for the Party’s Southern Caucus. This election is in keeping with an earlier decision that all Constituencies and Standing Units of the Party elect new executives committees and in consequence of the expulsion of Mr. Mike Espat as Chair of the Southern Caucus.<br /></div><div align="left">4. The National Executive has decided that the convention to endorse the PUP Municipal Election candidates for the Punta Gorda will take place on 7th December 2008. The current PG Mayor Carlos Galvez and his new team will be endorsed at this convention.<br /><br />5. A Special Committee has been appointed by the National Executive to review party and government-related conduct of PUP leaders during the past decade. This Committee will review controversial decisions they took, in the context of the recent Miranda Report and taking into special consideration the Party’s Aims, Principles and Objectives. The Committee will require Party leaders to give a proper account for their conduct in this period. <br /></div><div align="left">6. The National Executive endorses the decision by the Northern Caucus to replace its Treasurer the Hon. Florencio Marin Jr., as a consequence of his breach of the National Executive directive. <br /></div><div align="left">7. The National Executive authorizes the pursuance of all legal options relating to the controversial ownership and management of the Party’s assets, as well as the accounting of the Party’s finances by previous party officers.<br /></div><div align="left">8. Letters of reprimand will be issued to current and former PUP Parliamentarians who attended this illegal convention. <br /></div><div align="left">Immediately following its meeting this morning, the National Executive briefed the Chairpersons and Representatives of 23 of the Party’s 31 Constituency Branches of its deliberations and decisions. These Representatives gave their unanimous support for the decisions of the National Executive. The gathering also agreed that any further breach of Party protocol would be met with stiff and swift penalties. That meeting also called on all PUP members and supporters to respect the decisions of the National Executive and to work towards victory for the PUP in the upcoming municipal elections.<br /><br />--end--<br /> </div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-37574441453942988812008-11-29T09:50:00.000-08:002008-11-29T10:03:43.826-08:00PUP's Distress Signal<div align="center"> Anyone seeing <em>The Belize Times</em> today would have read the front page as a distress signal. A full quarter page is occupied by a notice to party supporters advising them that Sunday’s Corozal Northeast Convention is null and void. If it seems a panicky move for a mass party, and it probably is, because despite bitter protestations from the Party Executive it appears that Florencio Marin Jr. will proceed as planned with his convention in San Joaquin Village.<br />And that seems to leave the executive in quite a pickle, because they can’t physically stop the convention, and so after it proceeds and Marin Jr. is endorsed – then what next? It seems John Briceno’s leadership will then either have to make peace or renew hostilities against the breakaway division.<br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhANq_QmPY1WQJ8Z_DABB1H8qJgWmuQT-CagWlydCPsDZnYD2M_hCPUz5oL0uN6N1Py0F2CsgLAx01Va7h04qCzbgPRrSDn6hX88-sNNCfv_Vqb1zVvCFAjLQLZooAP8aNPYdvOwRA8f3NY/s1600-h/Florencio+Marin+Jr..jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274140981006960914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 122px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 132px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhANq_QmPY1WQJ8Z_DABB1H8qJgWmuQT-CagWlydCPsDZnYD2M_hCPUz5oL0uN6N1Py0F2CsgLAx01Va7h04qCzbgPRrSDn6hX88-sNNCfv_Vqb1zVvCFAjLQLZooAP8aNPYdvOwRA8f3NY/s320/Florencio+Marin+Jr..jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"></a><em>Florencio Marin Jr.</em> </p><p align="left"> And doing that means empowering or at least emboldening the old guard. And we say that because reliable reports say that former Leader Said Musa has been invited to speak at Sunday’s convention. That’s a report – and while it could not be confirmed – it raises so many politically intriguing possibilities – that it’s hard to overlook.<br /></p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi458X9sDPghhdt9enRJd9pfF17DkYYQmnRrzxSwtwxGmPw1JA1veH_1786CkoJKEZngBP25Ev0XHrOFq-biqxIYtvEMuEdkhS0New5DETsVj3_XqIhm0sf0M7jLcCGpKjqwIw72XG-_AVK/s1600-h/Florencio+Marin.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274140673603305938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 211px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi458X9sDPghhdt9enRJd9pfF17DkYYQmnRrzxSwtwxGmPw1JA1veH_1786CkoJKEZngBP25Ev0XHrOFq-biqxIYtvEMuEdkhS0New5DETsVj3_XqIhm0sf0M7jLcCGpKjqwIw72XG-_AVK/s320/Florencio+Marin.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"></a><em>Florencio Marin Sr.<br /></em></p>But by Sunday we will know and by Monday, we’ll have the breakdown of what happened and what it means for the PUP.<br /><br /><div align="right"><em>Channel 7 News</em></div><div align="right"><em>posted (November 21, 2008)</em></div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-33482796456618833242008-11-20T09:12:00.000-08:002008-11-20T09:15:06.613-08:00Statement by the People’s United Party<div align="justify"><em>Press Release – People’s United Party – November 18th, 2008</em> – The Leadership of the People’s United Party wishes to outline its official position on the reports of the imminent arrest of former Cabinet Ministers in connection with the diversion of Venezuelan housing funds to pay UHS-related debts and a press release yesterday issued by a group of PUP supporters: </div><div align="justify"><br />1. The PUP recognizes the concerns expressed by the ad hoc group of PUP supporters calling themselves “PUPs Against Injustice;” the Party welcomes their activism and their loyalty to the Party by acting in the Party’s name.<br /></div><div align="justify">2. While the ad hoc group is not an official arm of the Party, PUP members have a right to freely and responsibly express their opinions.<br /></div><div align="justify">3. The PUP Constitution advocates justice for all Belizeans, not just high officials and it demands that these principles be embraced in government and not just in Opposition.<br /></div><div align="justify">4. From the time of the initial threat of prosecution against former PUP leaders months ago, the Party took a position, which remains clear today: that holders of public office must be accountable for their actions; that they are innocent until proven guilty; and that they deserve a fair trial by an independent judiciary.<br /></div><div align="justify">5. The Party seeks to re-establish a covenant with the Belizean people based on the recognition of where the Party lost their trust, on fighting UDP incompetence and victimization and on offering a credible alternative to the misguided UDP policies.<br /></div><div align="justify">6. The PUP National Executive will continue to monitor the actions of the UDP government, mindful of its responsibilities to the national interests, the Party’s Constitution and members and the Belizean people.</div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-67747622548197219642008-11-18T15:26:00.000-08:002008-11-18T15:59:07.511-08:00SPTC audit raises questions<div align="center"><br /></div><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii7BSR4I9aDvVVu95uB_368YrUtlCKcBmL6BBfJkbRpBnLz32xxzoouYJ5U21j2igxz_-7oEpJzOfIAFz0qAUaTxq8M2rao_YY7fTV_B7BH-rwRflKoo_V-Uv3tRJMrkgGx5HGxRAHpsQv/s1600-h/Logo.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270143001284192626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 276px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 103px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii7BSR4I9aDvVVu95uB_368YrUtlCKcBmL6BBfJkbRpBnLz32xxzoouYJ5U21j2igxz_-7oEpJzOfIAFz0qAUaTxq8M2rao_YY7fTV_B7BH-rwRflKoo_V-Uv3tRJMrkgGx5HGxRAHpsQv/s320/Logo.gif" border="0" /></a></p><div align="center"><br /><br />Posted: 18/11/2008 - 02:13 PM<br />Author: Adele Ramos<br /><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><strong>Auditor General says, “…things don’t change unless Governments decide to enforce…”<br /></strong><br />In the recent months, the financial management of municipalities has become a cause of growing concern amid allegations of corruption in local government, but unlike the audit reports of Central Government, which are open and public documents, local government audits – no less controversial – are not nearly as easy to access.<br /><br />In fact, a journalist in San Pedro, <em>San Pedro Sun</em>’s Kainie Manuel, had to jump many hurdles before she could get the privilege of seeing financial documents. She was told to wait two weeks, then to write a letter, after which she was given a date, and then due to a postponement, a new date, to go to the Town Council to see the document.<br /><br />She had only an hour to review six years of financials, she was told – no pictures, no photocopies were allowed, and she had to read under the supervision of the town administrator and accountant, who were there, presumably, to answer any questions she might have about the report. The journalist was allowed to take notes on the audit report.<br /><br />The Opposition People’s United Party’s Belize Rural South arm says that there are serious concerns over allegations of misappropriation and mismanagement of San Pedro Town Council’s funds. </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270150975782765986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 164px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 180px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFnUyH6AGrFkz7XWXDSA93Gl8qk9pMB4UVwHcsz13GVndnEH6iQ_wG8IK3wpYWF6LcPcT1eRhDdova0p9O7pPY0xZFDDrwdlQx7cpZ06gAA1Qml1pvKtohhAa4QZDxKhrmi_7pAfjBtvPU/s320/Elsa.JPG" border="0" /> <p align="center"><em>"I can explain ..." When Mayor, when? The people have a right to know how their money is being spent.<br /></em><br />But San Pedro Mayor Elsa Paz told our newspaper that the Council was actually run by the PUP for the first three years of the report, and by her party only for the past three years. According to Paz, the report highlights more questions about the council’s financial management for the period for which the PUP ran the San Pedro Town Council, though she admitted that there are questions regarding financial dealings under her tenure.<br /><br />While the politicians debate the contents of the 2001-2006 audit of San Pedro Town Hall, which collects $3.2 million in revenues annually, the professionals at the Office of the Auditor General have, indeed, raised some legitimate concerns in their audit.<br /><br />Auditor General Edmund Zuniga told Amandala today that in the audit reports submitted for Central Government and tabled in the House of Representatives on Friday, there were comments about audits for San Pedro and Corozal, indicating that there may have been areas of excessive expenditures – spending that was not justified.<br /><br />Paz contends that there are answers for any question that the public might raise on the report.<br /><br />“For me, there is nothing that compromises the council,” Mayor Paz told us, insisting that there were “no serious allegations.”<br /><br />One of the most glaring irregularities reported is the fact that the area representative was getting paid by the town council. Regarding reports that Belize Rural South area representative, Manuel Heredia, who is currently the Minister of Tourism, was being paid a “stipend” from the San Pedro Town Council’s coffers, Paz confirms that he was, but she claims that Heredia was actually working for the Council. She claims that Heredia was helping them to execute land transactions under her tenure as mayor, and he made several trips to Belmopan in the process. Paz confirms that there were vouchers made out to Heredia.<br /><br />According to Zuniga, the audits of the municipalities are “management reports,” and go to the Town Councils/City Councils for them to make clarifications on points that seem unsatisfactory.<br /><br />Paz told us that this is the first audit report presented under her tenure, but it actually covers the period for which the Opposition People’s United Party controlled the Town Council as well (2001-2003).<br /><br />Paz informed us that the document is open to the public; however, anyone wishing to see it can’t just show up and demand it, but has to write the Council in advance, and they will be given an appointment date and time to view the document.<br /><br />According to Paz, the reason why the public is required to write beforehand is because at least two officers - the accountant and the town administrator, have to sit with the person so that they can answer any questions that person may have about the document.<br /><br />This is the process that <em>San Pedro Sun</em>’s Kainie Manuel had to go through. She reported that, “The report reveals information from tax revenues, sale of Council’s property, such as golf carts, liquor licensing board, missing vouchers, and receipts, according to the Auditor General.”<br /><br />Other concerns included the co-signing of a loan by the Council, the sale of the ferry that was at Boca del Rio Park, advances to employees and others, and the procurement of office supplies, the newspaper further reports.<br /><br />Contrary to reports that the records for 2001 to 2006 have been destroyed, Paz told Amandala today that the council still has all those records.<br /><br />The public will also be given a report on the 2001-2006 audits when San Pedro Town’s annual meeting is held at the end of the month, she added.<br /><br />The Mayor claims that it was the Ministry of Local Government that advised them not to allow the copying of the (audited) documents, even though the council could make its own public report on the audit.<br /><br />Meanwhile, the Auditor General reports that the audit for the Belize City Council will not be finished until this December, or next January. They would move next to scrutinize the financials of Punta Gorda Town Hall.<br /><br />As to the audits for Central Government, Zuniga told our newspaper: “We decided three years ago to draw the line” at the 2001/2002 financial year, meaning that they would not be bothering with audits for previous years (reportedly dating back to the 80’s/90’s) that had not been completed.<br /><br />As to the recurring concerns surfacing during the audit (of Central Government), Zuniga noted that “…it’s a lot of what came out of the same process the last time around…things don’t change unless Governments decide to enforce…” principles of sound financial management.<br /><br />He said that while the Audit Department can make comments on irregularities that it finds, certain things are “for the police.” There are accusations and allegations of public officers committing wrongdoing - politicians don’t sign – but it takes forever for them to go to court; meanwhile those accused continue to get paid from the public purse, Zuniga commented.</p>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6021839803178645586.post-18674305473800037492008-11-17T18:46:00.000-08:002008-11-17T19:03:44.364-08:00UDP slate - THUMBS DOWN<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtCiXcbbzxh4-h2OKMiXiP2-DuWJblXhmVkZGY-2FXw507DfuB_s6D2HqkAylJ4vzdm6cp0ewYMBl6oAPXl57oG6z5zYbzpBbJvFmLpA41rDevAP1Itj_AP3sigpVC9VktU-Zqk5xNxWDq/s1600-h/Ambergris+Today.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269826130182474514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 251px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 97px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtCiXcbbzxh4-h2OKMiXiP2-DuWJblXhmVkZGY-2FXw507DfuB_s6D2HqkAylJ4vzdm6cp0ewYMBl6oAPXl57oG6z5zYbzpBbJvFmLpA41rDevAP1Itj_AP3sigpVC9VktU-Zqk5xNxWDq/s320/Ambergris+Today.jpg" border="0" /></a> The <em>Ambergris Today</em> continues with its poll, asking visitors to their website whether they believed the slate presented by the United Democratic Party (UDP) for the island of San Pedro Town was good.<br /></div><div align="center">The questions stated:<br /><br /><strong><u>The UDP slate for Town Council election 2009 has just been announced.<br /></u></strong>0 - Thumbs Up<br />0 - Thumbs Down<br /><br />As of Monday, November 17th, 2008, the poll showed the following:<br /><br />The UDP slate for Town Council election 2009 has just been announced.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#ff0000;">Thumbs Down - 58.30 % (302)<br /></span><br />Thumbs Up - 41.70 % (216)<br /><br />Total votes: 518 </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="right"><em><span style="font-size:130%;">Voting continues - vote TODAY at <a href="http://www.ambergristoday.com/">www.ambergristoday.com</a></span></em></div>PUP San Pedrohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05444587441508479781noreply@blogger.com0