Imelda Marcos on the other hand, was the former Filipino beauty queen who married Ferdinand Marcos who was elected president of the Philippines in 1965. Together they amassed enormous wealth at the expense of the poor Filipino people and ruled with an iron fist until a popular uprising in 1986 put Corazon Aquino in power and forced the Marcos’ into exile. Imelda was most infamous for her enormous collection of clothes, art and especially shoes most of which are now on public display at their former palace in the Philippines. While Imelda didn’t say that only the poor pay taxes, she certainly made sure that they did.

And now while most of the focus of our nation is still on this new tax bill, there’s another very significant measure that’s quietly and furtively making it’s way through the house. It is an act designed to reform and consolidate the current laws relating to families and children and while this new bill does address a few of the injustices being perpetuated against men, it falls short of being equitable. As long as we continue to give mothers all the rights to children while giving father’s all the responsibilities and as long we have a family court that’s comprised chiefly of women and dedicated solely to the rights of women, justice will never be done. Sure women are significant to our society, but shall we continually consider all men second-rate? Is that why there’s usually such a big fuss over mother’s day while father’s day will come and go with hardly a notice? For what it’s worth, to all the fathers out there, Happy Father’s day.

Now of course with the CARCICOM games being the biggest thing in town right now, no article would be complete without some mention of this event. The BELIZE team tonight takes on the Bahamas and with our boys riding high on their impressive victory over the former NBA stars, all signs point to a very interesting tournament. Many thanks to Nigel Miguel and Reggie Mallard, who were responsible for bringing the NBA players to town and nuff thanks to these special athletes who were gracious enough to accept our invitation. They provided a well-needed tune-up for our young team and coach Greenwood was masterful in his first outing. Bear in mind BELIZE that these are no average NBA bench players that we have in our midst but more than a few were or still are, legitimate NBA standouts. Until just a couple of short years ago, Kenny Smith was regarded as one of the premier point guards in the world and it was refreshing to watch as the crowd at the civic acknowledged that fact. Tracy Murray, who is still active, is a prolific scorer even against some of the better defenders in the league and of course, we all know how good Pooh Richardson is. Laselle Thompson, a long time favorite of mine, might of course be one of the widest bodies to fly over BELIZE since the 747’s and the father-son combination of Marcus and Chris Johnson was a special treat to boot. On behalf of all who enjoyed the game, thank you fellows and please, enjoy BELIZE and come again soon.

As for our local team, BELIZE, I think we might have something here. Milton Palacio is one of the best talents I have personally seen for a long time and barring any misfortune, this young man should go a long way and make us very proud. As for the rest of the team, it is difficult to find anything negative to say about these guys. They played with heart and savvy and while nuff respect is due to the coach, it is obvious that he is not too disappointed with what he has to work with. Too Tall Jones who was a last minute addition played well and from all indications, seems intent on making good on his pledge to behave. Go for it my brother and remember we are all behind you. Alex Carcamo, son of well-known former inspector of police Winston Carcamo, is another player with enormous talent and although he missed a few shots, it is obvious that this kid’s got game. Orlin Simpliss wowed the audience with several spectacular plays and if what he showed is any indication of what is to come, yours truly is not missing a game. Simpliss of course, is alleged to be the son of popular BELIZEAN businessman Salvador Habet and if this is true, then Salvi you have much reason to be proud, for this kid is something special. As for the immediate goal of this team, Simpliss put it in one word, representation. We have little doubt that this time, it will be proper. See you at the City Centre BELIZE.