Holy Cross Anglican School

EWB Visit Holy Cross & San Mateo

2012-01-05T14:27:00.000-08:00

This week, Holy Cross welcomed our first visit from the Texas A&E chapter of Engineers Without Borders (EWB). This was a fantastic visit and will form the beginning of what we hope will be along lasting partnership.

The EWB students focused their attention to two different areas: How can we help the school; and how can we help San Mateo?

The EWB team in San Mateo, Belize

At the school the engineers focused on two tricky issues - protecting our computers from the erratic power we receive and monitoring the effectiveness of the waste water garden. The design for our computers was already pretty good, but they were able to give us some ideas for continuing to improve the water garden, for which we are very grateful.

But more excitingly were the ideas generated to help the community of San Mateo, from where we draw many of our students. San Mateo has inadequate water, power, road, and sewerage facilities, so there were many challenges for the engineers to choose from. They chose the following three:

WATER. The engineers tested the water and confirmed what the locals already knew: the town water supply that some residents have access to - while still being much, much better than carrying water home in buckets like they used to - is not reliably safe for drinking. The although it enters the area as safe water, the pipes lie in the sewerage tainted lagoon water, which seeps into the pipes in some areas when pressure is lost. Likewise, some of the many tanks that locals use for storing rainwater were found to be contaminated too.

The engineers identified that informing the local residents of the issues and teaching the residents how to safely treat the water with Clorox were the immediate need, and they will then develop several prototypes of point-of-use water treatment systems that will provide safe drinking water from the local tap water. (Currently locals pay $5 BZ for 5 gallons of bottled water. This solution would reduce the price to less than $1). It is not feasible to replace the whole pipe network or operate a desal unit for such a small population.
ELECTRICITY: The next need is electricity. Some houses are now connected to mains electricity, and a fascinating yet not entirely safe web of extension leads and wires attach yet more houses to the grid. Yet many houses are without any power and all houses have blackouts several times a month (or even several times a day on a bad day). The biggest impact is always the lack of evening light for study and general household activities.

The engineers proposed a simple battery operated system that could run a light electric load (eg a light, radio and maybe even a fan), that could then be recharged by someone who had mains electricity. The local population thought this was a wonderful idea and are excited to try it. I suspect that this might also be adopted by other residents of San Pedro who have less than reliable electricity, or as a back-up during hurricanes.
ROADS: The engineers were also able to give a few suggestions to improve the roads being built by the community. These were to add culverts to improve drainage, and adding a geotextile under the road to support it in the mud. Most interestingly with the culverts, they were as much to let the tidal water in as to let the accumulating water out - the tidal water is salty so every time it washes inland it prevents harmful bacteria and mosquitoes from breeding.

We are very excited about these developments for San Mateo. To find out more about San Mateo and how you can help the development there, visit the San Mateo Community Empowerment Project website hosted by Ole Miss here.

Electrical measurements

Sampling the water

Engaging the local population

A new generation of EWB in training?

Ole Miss Winter Camp

2012-01-03T04:36:00.000-08:00

Exploring science - shadow drawings

The kids of San Pedro had a very welcome addition to their Christmas Holidays this year - a team from one of our favorite partners - the University of Mississippi - brought down a wonderfully talented team, who ran a fun winter camp for the local kids. Each day brought different activities - science experiments, cheer leading, arts and crafts, fitness tests, games and more.

As an observer it was simply delightful to see our students getting so absorbed in these activities. The girls simply loved dancing, and some had great rhythm and style. Strangely, many of the boys really enjoyed doing simple jig saw puzzles, and my fondest memory is of watching these boys concentrating so hard and working so co-cooperatively to complete puzzles together.

An Old Miss student interviews a local boy

The 24 Ole Miss students and professors came from a variety of faculties incuding social work, education, exercise science and journalism and were headed up the amazing Dr Kim Shackelford, who has done some much to help the children of San Mateo.

Thank you so much Ole Miss for brining smiles to the kids of San Pedro

Learning the cheer leading moves

Totally absorbed in finger knitting

The boys get competitive with push ups

Santa Visits Holy Cross

2011-12-15T12:08:00.000-08:00

Santa distributes presents

Ask any child what the highlight of the year is and most likely they will tell you "CHRISTMAS!!" And this year was no exception, as thanks to the hard work of several very generous locals there were presets from Santa for each and every child at the school (and a few more curious visitors too).

Santa drove into the school at the head of a convoy of golf carts, accompanied by his army of elves. Tantalizing sacks of presents were unloaded, then one by one each class came to receive their presents from Santa. They were thrilled to each receive a present with their own name on it, individually wrapped and different in size and shape to the presents of everyone else.

Santa, who moonlights as an owner of a local bar (where else would Santa holiday but San Pedro??), did an amazing job of making each and every child feel special - big smiles, high fives, a quick hug and a big present. The children had so much fun. Santa was still holding strong after 420 kids - just desperate for a coffee!

Wandering through the classrooms was great fun after Santa had visited - the kids had unwrapped their dolls, trucks, activity books, balls and a myriad of other gifts. They also shared Christmas food together and enjoyed music and games. So much fun.

Christmas almost didn't happen, until an angel, in the form of the amazing Krista who owns a condo at Reef Village visited the school and started an amazing sequence of events. She heard of our need for Christmas gifts and was inspired. She started a toy drive within the local community and within a few short weeks had gathered together a present for each child - incredible. And, she had so much fun, she wants to do it a gain next year!

Krista is also does fundraising and has promised to support Holy Cross School as a beneficiary of the Nathan Yip Foundation - how exciting!

We'd also like to thank the many individuals who brought down Christmas gifts - your generosity is wonderful.

Santa talks to the class

Ms Krista enjoys a moment with Santa

Receiving gifts

Spiritual Fruit Ministries visit Holy Cross

2011-12-09T12:00:00.000-08:00

Peter speaking to the senior students about the Jesus movie.

We were thrilled when Peter and Helen Wall from Spiritual Fruit Ministries Belize walked into our office asking to show an incredible video about Jesus. Over two days they showed the video to all of our senior classes. Here is their report. Thank you so much Peter and Helen.

We, Peter and Helen Wall from Spiritual Fruit Ministries Belize, were thrilled to be able to show the DVD "The Story of Jesus for Children" at Holy Cross Anglican School. We were impressed with the support and cooperation we received from Lydia Brown, the Vice Principal Olivia Tasher, the teachers and students of the school. The children were not only very polite but also totally absorbed in the topics of the DVD - the miracles, parables of Jesus, His birth, death and resurrection.

Students were very receptive, sang songs enthusiastically and many spontaneously prayed the prayer out loud when Benjamin, a child in the movie, asked if children wanted to pray to receive Jesus in their heart and life. Most students made decisions to accept Jesus into their life as Lord and Saviour. When we returned after lunch many children welcomed us in the adjoining play area by swarming around us and hugging.

Lydia Brown, the volunteer coordinator, and the vice principal were especially helpful in organizing things with us and the teachers. After school on Wednesday we spent approximately 20 minutes with all of the teachers in the computer lab showing teachers the website and the lessons and resources available on the website www.spiritualfruitministriesbelize.org.

It was evident the need of many students who appreciated the lunch program and did not leave one drop or speck of food on their plates. Praise God for those who support this initiative.

One of the homes in San Mateo

Wednesday, December 8 at 8:30 am we showed the DVD to standard 3 and 4 in the cafeteria. Students were very receptive and again pretty well all accepted the invitation to accept Jesus.

When Benjamin prayed the prayer children automatically prayed out loud. All invited Jesus into their heart and life wanting to be a better person. During the discussion following the DVD one of the girls stated: "Jesus has given me a joy in my heart". This little girl and others had amazing smiles on their faces. Others also nodded in agreement. Praise God for his blessings and the love, joy and peace He bestows on us. In the afternoon we presented the DVD to a group of standard 6 students. They too were very receptive.

After school we spent approximately 20 minutes with teachers in the computer lab discussing the teaching resources and activities to follow-up the DVD. Two copies of the DVD were left at the school for teachers to use with the students.

Thank you again for this wonderful opportunity to share what Jesus has done for us.

Peter & Helen Wall

Nature Explorers Visit Holy Cross

2011-12-09T11:54:00.001-08:00

The infant and middle school had so much fun this week when Amalia and her friend Emily from Nature Explorers International came to teach.

Nature Explores is a one week nature education week designed to introduce children to the natural world and through interest and excitement. You can find out more about them her e.

Day one kicked off with with seeds, where the humble bean took center stage. Most of our kids eat beans every day of their life, but for the first time many realized there were actually baby bean plants inside.

Day two was invertebrates, with spiders, butterflies and starfish. Once again the kids simply loved doing the craft projects and many a butterfly and starfish was presented for inspection on the way home from school and seen all around town. There was a spider in a jar to be inspected with great interested and several kids came back the next day talking excitedly about the spiders they had seen at home. Even I was seeing more spiders than usual that day!

Day three was vertebrates and focused on sea turtles. Here children studied the "Sea Turtle Wheel of Trouble" and learned about the various threats sea turtles faced. They read a story about a sea turtle that felt sick after eating a plastic bag and many children said they would stop throwing bags in the water and tell their friends to stop too (a real issue here).

Day four looked at birds and included a field trip to the nearby swamp to observe the behaviors of birds - feeding, flying, flocking, preening and I cannot remember the rest. This time of year we see many migrating birds so the students had a lot to look at. Even pigeons on a roof top were suddenly transformed to fascinatingly interesting and drew shouts of excitement.

The last day was mammals and the students had a lot of fun learning all about monkeys and their important role in spreading seeds as well as making fun monkey masks. Kids had so much fun with the art and craft and talked about the masks all day. Some of the local kids not in school even followed Amalia and Emily home to ask to make masks!

The teachers also had a wonderful week with the guest teachers in the classroom. All enjoyed learning more about nature themselves and several even said they were inspired by the teaching techniques and look forward to incorporating them into their classrooms in the future.

So a huge thank you to Nature Explorers for including Holy Cross Anglican School on your schedule. We wish you all the best for the rest of your time in Belize. If you'd like to see more photos, you can find them here, with more stories here.

Know someone who does something similar - get them in touch with Holy Cross School!

Annual Boat Parade

2011-12-03T10:00:00.000-08:00

San Pedro has many celebrations and parades with one of the most colorful being the annual lighted boat parade. This has been running for 6 years now and Holy Cross, through the enthusiasm of Vernon Wilson, has a history of doing well.

This year was no exception. Mr Freddy put all his creative talent into place, putting together a magnificent creation. The snowman even seemed to wave as the boat bobbed in the still waters.

The hard work paid off, and the school took the special award for the Religious category, winning the school $800BZ - well done!

Here's Mr Freddy as Santa and Mr Carlos Coba, our Std 6 teacher claiming the well earned award from the beautiful Mrs San Pedro.

Well done everyone!

St John's Church mucks in

2011-12-02T15:00:00.000-08:00

Filling the playground

This week Holy Cross had the wonderful pleasure of hosting a small team of volunteers from St John's Episcopal Church in Lynchburg Virginia.

This team was a little different from our usual teams - they were one of our youngest groups, made up of a great group of 11 and 12 year olds accompanied by their parents and grandparents. Age didn't stop anyone as young and old alike pitched in to do whatever needed to be done.

The big job this week was continuing to expand the playground. Thanks to All Saints Forth Worth and the Universtiy of Sioux Falls we have a fantastic swing set, but to be fully used, the area must be filled with sand. Local sand diggers dug the sand from the lagoon (cold work this time of year), then our wonderful team spread it where it needed to go - how exciting to see the playground expanding! (We are still looking for donations for sand - do get in touch!)

Helping in Classes

The younger members of the team also spent some time with our Std III classes - much to the delight of the local children. Both American and Belizeans thoroughly enjoyed the interactions, learning a lot from each other.

We had thought it might be a disruption, but istead the visitors were a great role model to the local kids on how to behave and how to turn out some great work. This was especially evident when the classes were preparing posters for World Aids Day.

Ann Vest, who headed up the team from St John's is a regular visitor to the school. Over the years she has brought out various grandchildren and their friends to spend time with them and also give them a great opportunity to briefly experience life in a different part of the world. What a great idea!

From everyone at Holy Cross, thank you so much for your generosity in time, spirit and donations to the children of Holy Cross. You have been a blessing to us all.

The team in their favorite place - the tree in the front of the Hotel Del Rio.

Assisting in Ms Williams Std III class

PTA Rises to the Challenge

2011-11-25T13:00:00.000-08:00

One of the frustrating realities of building a school in a lagoon is that any and every building project first starts with finding dry land. In San Mateo, this requires hiring a crew to dig sand from other parts of the lagoon at the cost of $12.50 - $25 a boat load (approx 3.5 cu yards). Frustrating and expensive are just two of the words we would use to describe this activity. And with 8.5 acres of land that ranges from 3 inches to 2 feet under water, unending is another.

Although sand is always a desperate need, in the last months it has come to the fore as the School needs to build a fenced in playground to keep our requirements of having a preschool. And just this last month, the PTA, at the request of the Principal, have stepped up to meet this challenge. Every Friday for the last month, the PTA have done fundraisers - selling cheese dip (an absolute hit with the kids) as well as organising a BBQ where 300 parents, teachers and members of the public purchased their BBQ chicken, superbly cooked by the talented Mrs Rosalia, or chef.

The hard work paid off as the PTA were able to raise just over $500 US after expenses. What a superb effort! And they plan to continuue.

We are very excited to see the parents and community getting involved with the school.

Overall, we estimate we need US $2,500 to fill the playground and build it up to a level where it drains adequately after rain. Thanks to the PTA and individual donations and donations from churches we are getting close - just $1,000 to go!

If you can help by donating and amount, large or small, please contact the school on volunteerbelize@gmail.com. You can donate online at the Holy Cross Foundation or send a check to the Foundation at 7550 Coorporate Way, Eden Prairie, MN 55344, attn Brian Ostenso, Chairman.
Every little really helps!

2010-09-30T06:18:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends and Supporters, Please join me in a short walk down memory lane...

Four years ago, almost to the day, the students of Holy Cross participated in their first ever Children's Rally in celebration of Belize's Independence. There were about 40 children in 2006 - they sang and marched with great enthusiasm and made this new school's presence known.

Yesterday was Children's Rally 2010 and I was overwhelmed with the changes in just four short years. With tears in my eyes, I looked down the streets of San Pedro and saw hundreds of Holy Cross students, dressed in red, white and blue, proudly waving the flag of Belize, marching with great enthusiasm and making a real impact in the life of San Mateo, Ambergris Caye and the nation of Belize. I could easily imagine future teachers, doctors, policemen, office workers, computer technicians, politicians and maybe even a prime minister in the assembled crowd of students. WOW!!!

And just how did this giant leap forward come about? Through your efforts, that's how!! You have prayed, come on mission teams and built this school; sent school supplies, tons of books and shoes; donated money, supported the Feeding Program and underwritten scholarships; sent computers, reams of copy paper and cartridges; paid for toilets, land fill and electricity; brought down tools, dental equipment, toothbrushes and toothpaste. You have created Holy Cross Anglican School and turned a swampy garbage dump into a safe and loving place where children learn, grow, dream and blossom.

I am so proud of what God and all of us working together have accomplished - smile. I pray that you will continue to generously support and bless this tiny corner of God's kingdom. In spite of everything we've done, there is always more to do.....our students arrive daily to school hungry, in need of shoes,school supplies and dental care; computers require constant upkeep, electricity and supplies; more land fill is urgently needed so we can start construction on the playground and much needed pre-school; books wear out, toilets need repair and tools break. And right now, the school must build a water garden - approximate cost of $20,000US - to complete the composting toilet facility!!! I pray that you will continue the good work that Christ has begun in and through you here at Holy Cross. Please take a moment today and send a donation to:

Holy Cross Anglican School
San Pedro Town
Ambergris Caye, Belize

or make a credit card payment at www.hcefoundation.org

or mail to:

Holy Cross Education Foundation
7550 Corporate Way
Eden Prairie, MN 55436-2045

PS: Tropical Storm Karl passed by on Wednesday and all we got was tons of rain. Thanks be to God!!! School was surrounded by about a foot and a half of water (see attached photos). Could have been much worse but our hurricane season has just begun (September and October). Say prayers.

Love and hugs from the staff and students of Holy Cross Anglican School - smile.

Support Holy Cross Anglican School in San Pedro www.holycrossbelize.org

Happy Birthday Holuy Cross

2010-09-05T17:46:00.000-07:00

September 4, 2010

Dear Friends, Holy Cross Anglican School is four years old today!!! These past four years have certainly flown by in a whirlwind of activity bringing us to this milestone we are proudly celebrating. And, what a celebration we had on Friday - please see attached photos. The students made birthday cards, we gathered together to sing 'Happy Birthday', shared wonderful cupcakes and then everyone received a very special present. Thanks to the incredible folks at Southcrest Baptist Church in Lubbock, Texas each student (and teacher) received an age appropriate copy of the Bible for their very own - wow! Thank you Southcrest!!

School officially started on Wednesday, September 1st and everything went smoothly as students and teachers got down to the important work of learning. The school was peaceful and the students orderly - nothing short of a miracle! I'm sure this was due in large part to the fact so many teachers returned along with Mrs. Grace Williams, Principal and Mrs. Olivia Tasher, Vice-Principal. The staff just keeps getting better and better thanks to the guidance of our General Manager, Mrs. Marlene Leslie. Not only were the staff and students 'looking good', but thanks to the many volunteers who labored long and hard this summer, Holy Cross was also looking 'mighty fine' - smile.

Speaking of 'mighty fine'.....our new state-of -the-art composting toilet facility is AWESOME!!! Thanks be to God, we were able to get half of the facility up and running for the first day of school. We are currently awaiting the additional toilets which are sitting in Customs right now. Hopefully they will be delivered soon (say lots of prayers!). So far everything is working perfectly. Many thanks to the Episcopal Church Women for providing a $42,000US grant to get this project underway. We only recently found out that we'll need to build a water garden for the facility . I'm not exactly sure what that is (ask Vernon) but I do know it will cost an additional $20,000US. If you would like to contribute to the health and welfare of our children and the environment, we really need your donations!

As we celebrate a new school year, the birthday of Holy Cross, fabulous bathrooms AND Belize Independence Day - on September 21st the nation will be 29 years old - we also celebrate our friends and supporters all over the world. You have each contributed in some way to turn a desperate need for a primary school into an amazing reality. Thank you for caring and for sharing your time, talents and treasure. Please continue your support for the Feeding Program, scholarships, dental clinic, school supplies and materials. All children deserve the chance to dream big dreams. With your support and love, dreams will continue to be born and come true at Holy Cross Anglican School. Blessings, Francis

Tax deductible donations can be made through The Holy Cross Education Foundation www.hcefoundation.org
or by mail to: Holy Cross Education Foundation
7550 Corporate Way
Eden Prairie, MN 55436-2045

Contributions may also be sent directly to the School:
Holy Cross Anglican SchoolSan Pedro TownAmbergris CayeBelize
Support Holy Cross Anglican School in San Pedro http://www.holycrossbelize.org/

New composting toilet mechanics

Washing hads in the new batroom building

Holy Cross kids

Holy Cross Kids

Holy Cross Kids

Kids in the lunchroom

Holy Cross Kids

Hol Cross Kids

Global Giving Green Open challenge

2010-07-22T06:54:00.000-07:00

Hello friends and family,

I am writing to you to ask you to support Holy Cross Anglican School (HCAS) in the Global Giving Green Open challenge. To give you a little background, HCAS is a school in San Mateo, Ambergis Caye, off the coast of Belize. In Belize, even public education is not free. HCAS, which is funded through donation, provides pre-kindergarten through eighth grade education to 500 students. These 500 kids are the most disadvantaged on the island and would not have the opportunity of education without HCAS. Not only do these kids receive schooling at HCAS, but they also receive two meals per day; sometimes the only food they eat.

HCAS was selected as one of 20 organizations to participate in the Global Giving Green Open challenge. San Mateo is currently powered by diesel generators, making it extremely difficult and costly to consistently operate the volunteer built dental clinic and computer lab. Through GlobalGiving.org, we have the opportunity to install a combination of wind generators and solar panels. This will provide reliable, effective energy and help bolster Holy Cross Anglican School. HCAS is the only school on the Island with a computer lab this robust and large and opens its doors to adult education programming to serve the greater community. Both the dental clinic and computer lab are huge resources to San Mateo.

Through the Green Open challenge, HCAS has a HUGE opportunity to become a PERMANENT link on the GlobalGiving.org website. All we need is 50 different donors and a total of $4,000 in donations. For only $10 dollars, you can provide enough electricity for one computer for one month. For $75, you can provide enough electricity to support the dental clinic for one month. We only have until July 30th to complete the challenge, so please act quickly if this is something you feel you can support.

HCAS is a school that I fully support and believe will impact and improve the lives of thousands of children and the greater economy of Belize. By providing renewable energy to HCAS, we can help sustain this incredible place. I sincerely thank you for your thoughts and any (tax-deductible) contributions you can make to HCAS.

Lauren

Holy Cross survived Tropical Storm Alex

2010-06-28T10:15:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends, I'm happy to report that Holy Cross survived the first serious storm of the season, Alex, and is safe and sound - thanks be to God!! We're always a little on edge from June to November and certainly appreciate your prayers. As we heave a sigh of relief, we're back to work with two volunteer teams (St. Paul's School for Girls in Baltimore, MD and St. Dustan's in Dover, MA) continuing work on the new bathroom facility. We look forward to a busy and productive summer with mission groups, Vacation Bible Schools and plenty of construction!!

Please take a few minutes to read the following expert from an article written by Reid Joyner (Diocese of North Carolina). He visited Belize in May as part of Episcopal Relief and Development's annual meeting. We were fortunate that he spent some time at Holy Cross. Many thanks to Reid and all of you who share the amazing story of Holy Cross Anglican School. Blessings, Francis

Episcopal Relief & Development in Belize

Episcopal Relief & Development’s network of diocesan and seminarian coordinators meets each spring to reconnect, share best practices and hear the latest about ERD’s programs and plans. For the first time our annual meeting, held over the Memorial Day weekend, occurred outside our borders in Belize City, Belize. The location was chosen because the Belizean diocese, supported by Episcopal Relief & Development, could “provide Diocesan Coordinators an opportunity to witness our partners’ life-saving work firsthand and to help them tell the story of our work more effectively,” in the words of Network Coordinator Luke Fodor. Field trips were planned to allow us to see the ERD-provided HIV/AIDS prevention curriculum in elementary schools and to see recipients of ERD-funded microfinance loans.

Parishes in our diocese have participated for years in mission trips to Belize and in recent years to Holy Cross Anglican School in San Pedro. That connection led to my having the good fortune of being invited by the Rev. Jan Lamb, Deacon at St. Luke’s, Durham, and Holy Cross volunteer, to visit the school as her guest prior to the annual meeting’s start.

And what good fortune it was. Holy Cross, located in San Mateo, an underserved area of San Pedro, is an elementary school educating just over 500 children from Kindergarten through 8th grade. During my short visit I sat in on 2nd grade and 6th grade classes where I saw evidence of the HIV/AIDS prevention curriculum and listened to oral testing for end-of-term exams; I experienced a donated computer lab; I walked to school with a beautiful 2nd grader named Aaliyah; I ate lunch with the children and sat in on their weekly chapel services (separate services for the youngest, middle and oldest children); and I walked with Jan through the San Mateo neighborhood.

What I found was a school of happy children delighted to be in the school environment and eager to learn in spite of their challenging circumstances. Teachers were effective and students knew their subject matter. Younger students were variously attentive and older students were quickly responsive to the oral testing. In a positive way, the Holy Cross visit gave me a foundation against which to compare the field trip schools. A visit to the Holy Cross School web site will be time well spent.

Perpetual Scholarship Fund

2010-06-23T06:56:00.000-07:00

I’m Jimmy Hemphill. I’m coordinating an effort to write an article about Holy Cross School for the “Texas Episcopalian” (a monthly newspaper that goes to most of the homes in the Episcopal Diocese of Texas – approximately 85,000 members and 158 congregations).

We are writing this article to help raise money for high school scholarships for Holy Cross graduates. Our church’s youth group successfully raised enough money to provide a scholarship for every qualified 2010 Holy Cross graduating student (high school costs about $500/year per student). We are also funding more than 10 students who are currently attending high school. We are going to need help from other churches to develop a donor base that will perpetually fund scholarships.

My wife, an IPPY award winning poet, is writing the article. I’m trying to put together an electronic presentation, comprised of still images and commentary, to supplement the article.

While we were in Belize to support the Holy Cross graduation and award the scholarships, we interviewed scholarship winners. We also interviewed the mother of the student my family supports, and we visited her family at their home in the swamp that surrounds Holy Cross. We have more than 6 hours of audio tape, including interviews with the Wilsons.

This is my third trip to Holy Cross and we have lots of still images. I’m attaching a few thumbnails of the photos we took this year before the graduation – I haven’t had time to start editing the pictures we took at the graduation.

If we could include some high quality video footage taken at Holy Cross, we could significantly improve our presentation and our ability to generate scholarships. If anyone has any to share please contact me at bookworm@kingwoodcable[dot]com

Obviously we will only use the footage to generate scholarships.

I would be delighted to talk to you about our project, or provide any other information you might need.

We can make a difference at Holy Cross,

Jimmy Hemphill

Holy Cross Graduation 2010

2010-06-20T06:39:00.000-07:00

WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!On Sunday, June 20, thirty-five students graduated from Holy Cross Anglican Primary School. Mrs. Carol Babb, former General Manager of the Anglican Schools and currently the Deputy Chief Education Officer, was the guest speaker. Mrs. Babb told the graduates that there were great possibilities for their future, but they must remember to be self-disciplined and determined, and they would have to make sacrifices in order to excel. Mrs. Grace Williams, Principal, and Mrs. Francis Wilson, Local Manager, also had praise for the graduates and words of wisdom. Rosa Lopez (Valedictorian), Zoila Canek and Ethel Villatoro were the top students in the 2009-2010 Standard VI class.

Twenty-five students received scholarships that will allow them to attend high school. The majority of the scholarships were funded through a very generous donation from Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in Kingwood, Texas. Representatives from the church were on hand to meet the graduates and to present the scholarships.

The graduation ceremony included tributes to the Class of 2010 in poetry, songs and dance by the children in each division of Holy Cross. The traditional Torch Passing ceremony was also a part of the day. Prizes, a backpack full of school supplies, were awarded to the top two students in each class. At the conclusion of the festivities, children and their families were treated to cupcakes, also provided by the good folks from Good Shepherd Church.

Visit from Bob the Parrot and Joey Stevens

2010-06-14T07:09:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends of Holy Cross, Wild and crazy things are always happening here at Holy Cross - smile! Today we had a surprise visit from Weatherman Joey Stevens from WSEE in Erie, Pennsylvania and his side kick, Bob the Parrott. For those of you who are not in Belize, WSEE does "One Caribbean Weather" everyday. Joey and the Parrott are in San Pedro as part of the San Pedro Lobsterfest celebration. Check out the WSEE website later this week - should be on there soon. Their weather runs all day, lots of chances to see the show. Needless to say, the children were quite excited and welcomed the break from exams and the end of year wind down.

In addition to welcoming Joey and the Parrott, we also rejoiced as volunteer mission teams have recently come to work at the school (thanks be to God!). Folks from Southcrest Baptist Church in Lubbock, Texas, All Saints Episcopal Church in Fort Worth, Texas and the youth group from St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Durham, North Carolina have shared their time, talents and treasure and helped make Holy Cross an even better place to learn and grow. Many thanks!

Our Standard VI students are currently preparing for graduation which will be held this Sunday (June 20th) at 1pm at the Nunez Auditorium at San Pedro High School. We are so proud of our 36 soon-to-be graduates!! We are also overwhelmed with gratitude to the many folks at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in Kingwood, Texas who have agreed to provide the financial assistance for 24 of our graduates to go onto high school - wow!!!

And finally an update on our Corporate Matching fundraiser....... as of today, 35 donors have contributed $14,644.75 to the project which will support the Holy Cross Feeding Program and construction projects!!!!!!!!!! PLEASE make your donation today,

EITHER on line at www.hcefoundation.org

OR via check made payable to Holy Cross Education Foundation sent to: Holy Cross Education Foundation; 7550 Corporate Way; Eden, MN 55436-2045

Thanks to several generous corporate donors, your contribution will be DOUBLED and many children will have a better chance to grow up healthy and well educated. Many thanks for your prayers and your support. May you be blessed as you are a blessing to Holy Cross Anglican School!! In Christ, Francis

Support Holy Cross Anglican School in San Pedro www.holycrossbelize.org

Baptism and Confirmation

2010-06-02T07:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends, Holy Cross Anglican School was honored by a visit from the Rt. Rev. Philip Wright on Sunday, May 30th. Bishop Wright was here to administer the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and the Eucharist. Eleven children were Baptized, nine students were Confirmed (our FIRST Confirmation class!!) and participated in their first Eucharist. Please see photos.

The entire Holy Cross family rejoices with the eleven children who were Baptized. We are also extremely proud of the students in our first Confirmation class. The Confirmands were prepared to receive the Sacrament by School Principal, Mrs. Grace Williams and Deacon Jan Lamb from St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Durham, NC who has been volunteering as school Chaplain since January.

Bishop Wright presented copies of the New Testament (donated by friends like you) to each family who had a child Baptized. In addition he gave Study Bibles ( thanks again to our friends!) and wooden Crosses to each student who was Confirmed. What an incredibly special day!!!

UPDATE ON THE SUMMER 2010 CORPORATE DONATION MATCHING PROGRAM..........

Great news...we received a commitment of an additional $5,000 to be used as part of the corporate matching funds. Many thanks to our good friend in California!!! That brings our Corporate Match total to $20,000.00 USD!!!!!! PLEASE take this opportunity to make a donation to Holy Cross Anglican School knowing that your contribution will be DOUBLED!!! We are hoping and praying to raise $40,000 in desperately needed funds to help support our Feeding Program and building program.

All donations sent to the Holy Cross Education Foundation by credit card or check receive an equal amount from the Corporate Matching Program. All money will be given to Holy Cross to cover the school’s Feeding Program, operational and construction expenses.

The children of Holy Cross really need your help! We are committed to continue the Feeding Program which provides a healthy breakfast, mid-morning fresh fruit snack, nourishing lunch, purified water and daily vitamins to over 500 children every day who might otherwise be malnourished. The kitchen staff does a wonderful job keeping costs low but we still spend $1US per child per day. That adds up to a lot of money!!! Holy Cross needs every penny of that potential $40,000 (and tons more!) to remain the state-of-the art educational facility you helped to create. Without your contributions, we cannot be supportive of our children who are hungry, in need of uniforms, shoes, school supplies or sick. Please don't let us down. Tax deductible contributions can be sent to:

Holy Cross Education Foundation
7550 Corporate Way
Eden Prairie, MN 55344

OR, made via credit card on the Foundation's web site: www.hcefoundation.org For additional information, please feel free to contact the Chair of the Foundation Board: Brian Ostenso at bostenso@aol[dot]com

MORE GOOD NEWS: The results of the National Exam for Standard VI students (PSE) are in. I'm thrilled to report that 30 of our 37 Standard VI students passed the exam and several came within a point or two of passing. We are overjoyed with our passing rate of 81% - a great average!! Of course we always aim for 100% but several of these children came to Holy Cross with no knowledge of English - quite a hurtle to overcome in an English speaking country. Congratulations to teacher, Mrs. Joy Elliott and the many volunteers who helped tutor these young folks.

STATE-OF-THE-ART BATHROOM FACILITY: Construction continues on our new bathroom complex. (Please see photo). We are counting the days until 26 toilets and 2 large trough urinals are ready for action. Many thanks to the Episcopal Church Women for their generous grant which provided the money to get this project underway. And, a huge thank you to the many volunteers who have worked and continue to work in the hot Belizean sun to make this incredibly needed facility a reality. When completed, Holy Cross will have the most environmental friendly bathrooms in the country. We are thrilled to be ecologically sound and to get rid of the huge lines at potty break - smile.

Registration is well underway for the next school year. Once again it looks like we'll have a 'full house' and be forced to turn children away. That is the hardest thing in the world to do. With your help and continued support we hope to soon have the money needed to buy land fill. Once we can fill more of the property we can look to building a much needed pre-school and additional classrooms along with a playground...Church....art and science classrooms....and...and... The dreams for Holy Cross continue to grow. Please join in helping make them come true!!! Many thanks and blessings, Francis

Support Holy Cross Anglican School in San Pedro www.holycrossbelize.org

First Confirmation Class

2010-05-31T07:38:00.000-07:00

Holy Cross Anglican School was honored by a visit from the Rt. Rev. Philip Wright on Sunday, May 29th. Bishop Wright was here to administer the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and the Eucharist. The service was held at the Angel Nunez Auditorium at San Pedro High School. Eleven children were Baptized and nine students were Confirmed and made their First Communion. Those Confirmed were Isolene Bailey, Jovanni Campos, Kaira Chan, Reyna Chavez, Venancia Choc, Celia Edwards, Helen Palacio, Alba Trejo and Tamika Castro who left before the pictures were taken.

Holy Cross Anglican School rejoices with the eleven children who were Baptized and their families. We are also extremely proud of the students in our first Confirmation class. The Confirmands were prepared to receive the Sacrament by School Principal, Mrs. Grace Williams and Deacon Jan Lamb from St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Durham, NC who has been volunteering at the School since January 2010.

Bishop Wright presented copies of the New Testament to each family who had a child Baptized. In addition he gave Study Bibles and wooden Crosses to each student who was Confirmed. Many thanks to the staff members who prepared the auditorium for the service and everyone who made this such a special day!

Support Holy Cross Anglican School in San Pedro www.holycrossbelize.org

Volunteering at Holy Cross

2010-05-20T07:42:00.000-07:00

Here is a bit of email correspondence from Miss Francis about helping someone volunteer at Holy Cross School.

Hi Ladies, We would love to have Ellie volunteer here at Holy Cross!!! There are so many things she could do - working in the classrooms, helping out in the library, tutoring , arts and crafts programs, music - she could design her own schedule!! Probably the best way for her to get started is to visit the school web site at: www.holycrossbelize.org There is tons of information about the school and the logistics of volunteering. Once she and her folks have read over the material, please have her get in touch and we'll start planning (with God's help!) her blessed adventure!!

In addition, all of the wonderful Holy Cross videos are on now on YouTube - links are below. Please watch them, especially Gigi Harris' video - she is only 9 years old!! And, please share with all your friends. Blessings, francis

Holy Cross Video Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zk_Gp7ONl7Q&feature=related

Holy Cross Video Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kjzd11-8ibQ&feature=related

San Mateo Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tG1hD5mDfcY&feature=related

Gigi Harris video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x4zYQL5Zr8I%5C

A Belize Mission Trip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zH45MkAbeEk&feature=related

Corporate Matching Donation Program

2010-05-14T07:48:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends, I am very excited about the following Corporate Matching Donation Program!! Please, please, please read and respond to this incredible opportunity. The children of Holy Cross are counting on YOU!! Many thanks and blessings, Francis

Holy Cross Education Foundation

Summer 2010 Corporate Donation Matching Program

Amount designated for Corporate Match - $15,000.00 USD

Program – The matching program will give an equal amount of a donation that is identified by the donor as a "Matching Donation" up to $15,000.00.

Purpose - Raise $30,000 to sustain Holy Cross Anglican School

Term - The program is for donations made between May 10, 2010 and September 30, 2010

How it works - Any donation sent to the Holy Cross Education Foundation by credit card or check that is identified by the donor as a “Summer 2010 Match Donation”will enable the Foundation to receive an equal amount from the Corporate Match program. All money will be given to Holy Cross to cover the school’s operating and construction expenses.

Donors to the Corporate Match Program - Two Minnesota based corporations who have asked to remain anonymous. They have requested anonymity as they want to avoid being solicited by other groups.

The children of Holy Cross Anglican School are counting on YOU to ensure that their Feeding Program continues! PLEASE make a donation NOW while your dollars will be doubled - wow!!! Holy Cross needs every penny of that potential $30,000 to remain the state-of-the art educational facility you helped to create. Without your support, we cannot be supportive of our children who are hungry, in need of uniforms, shoes, school supplies or sick. Please don't let us down. Tax deductible contributions can be sent to:

Holy Cross Education Foundation

7550 Corporate Way

Eden Prairie, MN 55344

Contact the Chair of the Foundation Board: Brian Ostenso at bostenso@aol[dot]com

Support Holy Cross Anglican School in San Pedro www.holycrossbelize.org

Holy Cross Goes 'State-of-the-Art'

2010-04-30T07:51:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends, Belize recently joined most of the world in observing Earth Day #40. Guess I'm really getting old since I remember Earth Day #1 - smile. Of course, the students and staff at Holy Cross were engaged in many Earth friendly activities which included a community clean-up, preparing educational posters, planting trees and becoming more aware of the fragile home we all share. (please see the attached photos)

And what better time to highlight the construction progress being made on our very green, environmentally sound, ecologically beneficial bathroom facility! Please take a moment to read the following article which recently appeared in Ambergris Today. We continue to be grateful to the Episcopal Church Women for their generous grant and to the volunteer teams for their hard work.

Holy Cross is very proud of the wonderful things happening at the school and in the neighborhood of San Mateo. With your help and support we will continue to improve and be able to offer a sound education, feeding program, dental care, school supplies, tennis shoes and tons of love to many disadvantaged children in San Pedro. Please celebrate Spring and another Earth Day by sending your contribution to: Holy Cross Anglican School; San Pedro Town; Ambergris Caye, Belize. Many thanks and blessings! Francis

Holy Cross Goes "State-of-the-Art' With a little help from our friends.

The Holy Cross Anglican School is building a state of the art composting toilet system and water garden. The equipment room of this system will be incorporating the most advanced state of the arts Green building system in the world. The SABS building system is 100% recyclable and the finished product produces a category 5 hurricane resistant building, it is also earthquake resistant and water proof.

Richard Hess and Marcel Goneau, of Goneau-Hess Architectural design and construction here in San Pedro, have donated their time and expertise to make this happen for the school. They have also allowed the school to purchase all the materials to build this building at their cost.

This system is less expensive and quicker to build than a concrete building of the same size, which makes it very affordable. All future construction at Holy Cross Anglican School will be done using the SABS eco-friendly building system. For further information on this system please call Richard or Marcel at 667-7083.

Along with the actual building and the Aquatron Composting Toilet System, we are going to be building a state of the art water garden using UV lights to kill all bacteria and viruses as well as plants and limestone to purify the gray water from the school and toilets. This water then will be recycled and used to flush the toilets. The system has been designed by a volunteer in Minnesota who specializes in designing and installing water garden systems for the state of Minnesota.
This will make our septic system the most advanced state of the art system in Central America. Holy Cross will keep the public updated on the building progress.
Ambergris Today

Holy Cross Anglican School
San Pedro Town
Ambergris Caye, Belize

Easter vacation

2010-04-16T08:01:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends, I hope you had a blessed and holy Easter and that now you're enjoying a beautiful Spring!. The students and staff here at Holy Cross definitely appreciated their two week Easter vacation. Many thanks to the volunteer team from St. Michael's, Raleigh, NC who provided a terrific Holy Week VBS to over 60 of our little ones and a Good Friday service for us all.

As always things are very busy at Holy Cross. To mention just a few....

* Our Standard VI students have taken the first part of their Primary School Exam (PSE) - Language Arts and Science. On May 4th they will take the second part - Math and Social Studies. Please send a few extra prayers their way. I hope Holy Cross will soon lead the nation of Belize in passing rate - a lofty goal but I pray for 100%!

* A class from Holy Cross recently won the Hol Chal Marine Reserve Slogan and Poster contest! Their slogan, "Save the Reef Today; Tomorrow Might be too Late!" will be the official theme of Reef Week and earned the students a free trip to the Reserve.

* Construction is proceeding on the new, state-of-the-art composting toilet system (please see the attached photos). We are all counting the days until it is finished!!! It will be the greenest school toilet system in the nation with 24 toilets, 10 urinals, 4 teacher bathrooms and 8 sinks - yea! Many thanks to the Episcopal Church Women and their United Thank Offering grant.

* We continue to be blessed with the presence of Deacon Jan Lamb from St. Luke's, Durham, NC. Deacon Jan has been such a wonderful addition to the staff assisting with Chapel, teaching Religious Education, preparing our FIRST Confirmation class(!!), counseling students and teaching math - wow! We will certainly miss her when she leaves in June.

* And speaking of Confirmation...Bishop Wright will be with us on Sunday, May 30th for Baptisms and Confirmation. We are soooooo excited!

* We are anxiously awaiting the arrival of a volunteer team from Vancouver Island University. These folks will be working with the teachers on classroom management, lesson preparation and presentation.

Holy Cross is definitely an exciting place to be! Thanks to your continuing support we hope it always will be - smile. Please take a few moments today to send your prayers and a financial contribution to the school. We are committed to providing the Feeding Program (costs $500US per day!), maintaining the Computer Center (electricity for the air conditioning costs $2,000US per month!), staffing the Library (salary of $400US per month!) and the thousand and one other things that seem to cost tons of money. Please, please, please, the students of Holy Cross need YOUR help!

Checks payable to "Holy Cross Anglican School" should be sent to:
Holy Cross Anglican School
San Pedro Town
Ambergris Caye, Belize

OR, you may make your donation through "Click and Pay" on the school web site: www.holycrossbelize.org

OR, through the Holy Cross Education Foundation; 7550 Corporate Way; Eden Prarie, MN 55344

Many thanks and blessings, Francis

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-03-11T08:18:00.000-08:00

March 11, 2010

Dear Friends of Holy Cross, I know I'm a little behind the calendar but Vernon and I were in the States when the 'Happy Valentine's Day to Holy Cross' bulletin board was put up. (thank you Deacon Jan!) I just took it down and finally had a chance to see what the Standard IV, V and VI classes had to say. Needless to say there were tears in my eyes as I read those little red hearts. I narrowed down the ones I'm sharing even tho I wanted to send them all. Spelling and grammar may occasionally look strange as I copied each card verbatim - smile. The children wrote these Valentines to Holy Cross but you are truly the heart of this school - the real reason these cards could be written. Your love, support and generosity have made Holy Cross the incredibly special place it is. Many thanks and Blessings, Francis

I Love Holy Cross because.....

they are there when we need them. Indira

it is so awesome and they give us food to eat. Nachor

they give you disipline. The teachers try their best to let you learn and you are feeden and you are given medical

care when needed. Most of all I love Holy Cross Anglicans because God sent me their. Isolene

they give me attention. Deson

it's beautiful. Rosit

they give me food. Michael

they always help me when I need help!! thank you. Aviel

they treat me good. Heidy

the teachers have patience for the children. Ashley

it has a computer lab. C.E.

it is realy nice and it is the only place in San Pedro that has a nice principal and an cafitirea. Jose

they give us food and the teachers are nice to the students. Jissel

it is fun.

I have a lot of friends and at my old school I had none. Christian

their kind to us and it is the best school in Belize.

I learn a lot and disiplen.

they are always there for us!! Kendesha

it is a kind hearted and generous school that takes care of its children. Kendice

So Happy Valentine's Day to Holy Cross! May God grant us the patience, love, kindness, perseverance and financial ability to continue being there for the children of San Pedro.

Please send donations to: Holy Cross Anglican School; San Pedro Town; Ambergris Caye, Belize

Support Holy Cross Anglican School in San Pedro www.holycrossbelize.org

Our Church at Work

2010-03-05T08:23:00.000-08:00

March 5,2010

Dear Friends of Holy Cross Anglican School, I am happy to share the following article written by recent volunteer Dr. Eric Fee. Holy Cross is so thankful for the many volunteers and mission teams who share their time, talents and treasure with the children of Holy Cross. We are also incredibly thankful for each of you! Your prayers, financial contributions, gifts of school supplies, shoes, back packs, teaching aids and books are a blessing to all of us. With your continuing support Holy Cross will continue to be a beacon of light, love and learning to the disadvantaged little ones of San Mateo. Many thanks and Blessings, Francis

Our Church at Work

In January 2010, Cindy Lee Hall and I traveled to Belize, Central America. We boarded a ferry for a bumpy 2 hour ride across the beautiful Caribbean Sea from Belize City to San Pedro on Ambergris Caye. Our final destination was the tiny village of San Mateo that had been built upon unwanted government swamp land by the hearty people of this welcoming country.

The purpose of our visit was to work with the students and teachers of the Holy Cross Anglican School (www.holycrossbelize.org). Literally, this school has been created like a seed sprouting from the ground! And, it continues to grow with the support of the San Mateo community and the worldwide parishioners of the Anglican/Episcopal church. For those of you who have contributed to this ministry (www.hcefoundation.org) I assure you your monies are being put to great use.

In addition as a family physician, I explored the health care needs of the school and surrounding community. Despite the lack of abundant health care that we are accustomed to in the USA, the Belizean healthcare providers and people make excellent use of their limited resources.

This island does not have a hospital or emergency room or urgent care. The ability to transfuse blood, provide intravenous fluids, perform surgery or obtain a CT scan does not exist. We sadly learned of 2 children who had recently died from infections stemming from simple cuts due to the lack of appropriate antibiotics. In the face of this harsh reality, you quickly learn to appreciate the gifts bestowed upon us at home.

Belizeans and those serving the church's ministry are working feverishly to overcome these challenges. Holy Cross Anglican School is growing both in its physical plant and student population. A community health center with a domestic violence safe house and student health center is moving from the planning stages to the groundbreaking ceremony.

We plan to return to Belize on an ongoing basis as part of the Episcopal church's ministry throughout the world. And, we thank God for giving us the ability to do so.

Eric C. Fee

Greetings from Holy Cross

2010-02-25T08:29:00.000-08:00

Greetings from Holy Cross and Happy New Year.

Life has been very busy at Holy Cross since school resumed after the Christmas vacation. A team of volunteers from Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Virginia Beach, Virginia, began construction of a walkway around the back of the classroom building, shoveled loads of sand to increase the land space around the workshop, further organized the books in the library, and tutored numerous children in reading and math.

They were followed by back-to-back teams from St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Durham, NC. These teams shoveled more sand, tutored more children, worked on the library project, finished the walkway and painted the backside of the classroom building. The second team from St. Luke’s included two doctors and two nurses. This group measured the height and weight of all the children, did vision and medical screenings, treated many sick children and entered past and current medical information for all the children into a database.

We had dentists in the Smile Clinic for two weeks seeing children. Teeth were filled and pulled, and many smiles were brightened. Thanks to Dr. Mark for coordinating the dentists and their helpers from NC, Florida and Minnesota.

During the same two week period, other volunteers from Boston and Minnesota worked on the various projects including moving sand and vision screening. So much valuable work was done in only a few days.

Other volunteers and friends have brought wonderful donations of school supplies, shoes, uniforms, prizes and money for the feeding program.

Joanne O’Brien, founder of Direct Abundance, has been back with us. She and her daughter Erin, who is enrolled in Standard VI, are in Belize for two months. Joanne has been conducting workshops and community meetings on the topic of domestic violence. She presented a very informative workshop to the Holy Cross teachers as well as ones in Belize City and in the Belize prison. She is working with a number of agencies spearheading a movement to establish a women’s and children’s shelter here in San Pedro.

Representatives from Defiance College in Ohio, Vancouver Island University, and Gainesville State University, Georgia have visited Holy Cross to finalize plans for partnerships for student teachers and other teacher resource programs. We are very excited about these relationships and how they will enhance teaching at Holy Cross.

Holy Cross held three fundraisers and donation collections, raising over $800 that was sent to the victims of the earthquake in Haiti.

The Valentine’s Day Fair was a huge success with games, food, prizes and face painting. Over $3000Bz was raised for the school.

Another exciting and generous contribution came from the Kelly McGuire Foundation. Texas musician Kelly McGuire was recently on Ambergris Caye for several concerts. He established a foundation, held a benefit auction and donated the proceeds to the school.

The Holy Cross football (soccer) team has played 4 games and boasts a record of 1-1-1. Through generous donations from volunteer teams, the team is sporting new uniforms in Holy Cross colors. In order to participate, Standard IV, V and VI students must maintain their grades and exhibit good behavior in class.

Two children from Holy Cross participated in the Ambergris Caye Spelling Bee. While they did not win this year, they represented the school well as they competed against children from four other island schools.

The needs continue to be great at Holy Cross. In an effort to enlarge the land area around the construction shed, more sand has been brought in, but many more loads are needed. The feeding program continues to fill many empty tummies each day but the groceries are expensive.

Francis and Vernon Wilson are in the US for the month of February for some much needed “R&R” and medical appointments. We look forward to their return. Trying to fill their very big shoes in their absence is Deacon Jan Lamb from North Carolina who is volunteering at Holy Cross for the remainder of the school year. Deacon Jan is a teacher of students with learning disabilities and a teacher trainer. She will be working with both students and teachers as well as serving as Chaplain for Holy Cross. Deacon Jan led chapel services at the school on Ash Wednesday and will soon begin meeting with children who are preparing for Confirmation.

A PS from Francis: Being away from Holy Cross is always difficult for Vernon and me but is made much easier knowing there are so many wonderful folks in charge. Principal Grace Williams, Vice-Principal Olivia Tasher, Office Manager/Bookkeeper Linda Carter, our dedicated teachers, Mr. Freddy, Mr. Jason, Mr. Cruz, our incredible cooks, school warden, Kath and Cullen Walker and our unbelievably dedicated VOLUNTEERS ensure that everything runs smoothly. We are especially blessed to have Deacon Jan Lamb at the School until June - many, many thanks to her for all her hard work!

I am happy to report that Vernon has gotten good reports from all his doctors and medical tests. A few medications have been added to his daily routine (to lower blood pressure and cholesterol) until he can lose about 20 pounds and allow his body to 're-set'. Seems like losing weight is the new cure all - ugh!

I continue to ask your prayers for the students and staff of Holy Cross Anglican School. I also continue to plead for your financial support. Vital services like the School Feeding Program, maintenance of the Computer Center, salaries for day and night time security, electricity, water and dozens of other things depend on you. I pray that you will help ensure that the good work begun at Holy Cross will continue long into the future. Many, many thanks and blessings, Francis

Donations for Haiti

2010-01-26T08:31:00.000-08:00

Responding to the urgent needs in Haiti, the students and staff of Holy Cross Anglican School have been working hard to raise money. On Friday, January 22, two fund raisers were held at the school. The first, a Rags Day, raised $512.05BZ. Later that same day a Cheap Sale of donated items generated $155.00BZ. On Sunday at the Family Worship Service, the offering of $199.80BZ was also earmarked for Earthquake Relief. In total, Holy Cross will be donating $866.85BZto the nation of Haiti.

Christmas Greetings 2009

2009-12-23T08:47:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends, The students and staff of Holy Cross Anglican School join me in wishing you a Blessed and Joyous Christmas Season and a Happy New Year! Your prayers, donations of school supplies and financial contributions have created Holy Cross and will help ensure that this ministry continues to grow and nurture the children of San Pedro throughout all of 2010. We often pray the words of St. Paul found in Philippians 1:6, “That the God who started this great work in you (Holy Cross Anglican School) would keep at it and bring it to a flourishing finish on the very day Christ Jesus appears.”

And speaking of 'great work', I wish each of you could have been with us for the Holy Cross Christmas Pageant held yesterday at the high school. Please enjoy the attached photos (thanks Cullen!) and try to imagine the excitement as hundreds of children sang like angels, danced with joy and joined in thanking their Heavenly Father for the precious gift of Jesus.

I'd like to share just one of the offerings - an original poem by Standard V sung to the "Twelve Days of Christmas" and dedicated to Holy Cross.....

On the first day of Christmas, Holy Cross gave to me, a scholarship to high school;

On the second day of Christmas, Holy Cross gave to me 2 glasses of milk;

........ 3 johnny cakes;

.........4 powder buns

Five plates of food!

........6 slices of melon;

........7 dentists drilling;

........8 volunteers;

........9 computer lessons;

........10 doctors helping;

........11 teachers teaching;

........12 Christmas gifts!

I think their words say it all - I just wish you could have heard their sweet voices and seen their smiling faces!!

In this season of miracles we thank God for each of you, for the many blessings He has showered upon us all and for the ability he has given us to share with those in need. May your lives be filled to overflowing with God's love, peace and joy - this Sacred Season and throughout the coming year. In Christ, Francis

Please visit the School web site at www.holycrossbelize.org and the new Holy Cross Education Foundation site at www.hcefoundation.org

Tax deductable donations to Holy Cross may be made through:
Holy Cross Education Foundation
755 Corporate Way
Eden Prarie, Mn 55344

Usborne Books e-show

2009-11-22T10:16:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends of Holy Cross, Please take a few minutes to read the following email from long time Holy Cross supporter, Jean Willard. Jean and her husband John along with many friends from St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Durham, NC have brought numerous mission teams to the school. Jean is doing a fund raiser for the school which will help us get wonderful library books. Now you can do your Christmas shopping AND support Holy Cross at the same time!!! Many thanks and blessings, francis

Greetings,

I'm here to help you with your Christmas shopping this year! I am hosting an e-show of Usborne Books. In hosting this e-show, I will receive free books. The $$ amount sold determines the number of free books. All free books received from this e-show will go to the library at Holy Cross Anglican School in San Pedro Belize. Our church has taken mission teams to Belize for the past 9 years and has spent the last 3 years helping build Holy Cross. We have watched it grow from 3 classrooms in a mangrove swamp with 62 students to 15 classrooms and 525 students from K-8th grade. We return in February 2010 with 25 team members and hopefully lots of new books!! The annual trip is one of the highlights of our year!

Never heard of Usborne Books? They are high quality, award winning books. They have earned the Learning Magazine Teachers' Choice Award, Dr. Toy's 100 Best Child Products Award, Parent's Choice Gold Award and Mom's Choice Award and more. Their 1300+ book selection ranges from baby board books through High School reference books. They have readers, fiction, puzzle stories, finger puppets, maze books, jigsaw puzzles, hands-on activity books and kits and much more. The sales representative for this e-show is my daughter, Jill Baird. When we went to visit them in Hawaii this past September, I got to help host her first sale. She had gotten a box of sample books and John and I spent hours and hours reading those books to our grandsons. They couldn't get enough of them! We later saw them at Volcanos National Park in the gift shop and have since found them at other National Parks we have visited. We were VERY impressed with the quality of the books, and I am very picky about children's books!!

Please take a minute and visit the website for this e-show and check it out! They're wonderful gift books for all children. And they'll be delivered right to your door! Or, you can do a separate order for each family and have it delivered to their door! Can't beat one stop shopping! If you're not sure what they would like, just send them the e-show site and ask them to make up a wish list for you!

If you have questions, please send me an email at willarjm@mindspring.com or give me a call at 919-471-0816. To learn more about Holy Cross Anglican School, check out their website and Julie's blog who is volunteering for 2 months at the school and writing about her experiences. Feel free to pass this info on to friends! The more the merrier!

Thanks for your support of this e-show!!

:-) Jean

Halloween Fair - 2009

2009-11-22T09:46:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends, I just wanted to share some 'Happy Halloween' photos from the school FUNdraising Fair held this past Friday. The kids had a wonderful day and the school raised $1,608.50US for the Feeding Program - that's a ton of quarters!! Many thanks to the teachers, parents and to local businesses who made generous donations: Casa Pan Dulce ( a delicious cake!); Quality Poultry (a great price on the chicken we bar-b-qued!); Martin McKoy (toe-tapping music and the sound system!) and Daniel Nunez (soft drinks!).

Please join in the fun of Holy Cross by making your contribution today!! Checks may be sent to:

Holy Cross Anglican School
San Pedro TownAmbergris Caye, Belize

And, please check out the new Holy Cross Foundation Board web site and the School web site. Many thanks for your prayers and continuing support. It truly takes all of us working together to make the miracle of Holy Cross a reality for 500+ children!!

Blessings, Francis

Happy Friday the 13th

2009-11-13T19:12:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

Happy Friday the 13th! We’re having a wonderful day here at Holy Cross Anglican School. The sun is shining after many days of rain, the sounds of learning are quietly (or not so quietly!) echoing around the school and construction has begun on our incredible state of the art composting toilet system. Thanks to a generous grant from the Episcopal Church Women, by September 2010 we will have two girls’ bathrooms and two boys’ bathrooms, 24 toilets, 10 urinals, 4 staff bathrooms and the ‘greenest’ sewer waste disposal system available!!!! I never thought I could get so excited about toilets but providing bathroom breaks for 500+ students and 29 staff with only 6 toilets and 3 urinals is more complicated than rocket science.

I know you each rejoice with us as the school blooms and grows. And I know most of you could recite the critical needs we have here at Holy Cross from memory….feeding program, land fill, school supplies, shoes, uniforms, first aid, electricity for the computer lab, water bills (most recent was for $850US), medical bills, eye glasses and the list goes on and on. And, most of you know I have a thousand and one ways to ask for your financial contributions. Now I have one thousand and TWO ways…my birthday, the BIG 60, will be on November 18th, 2009. (I can hear you gasping in shock since I don’t look a day over 59 – smile.) Anyway, a few folks have asked what I want for my birthday. That’s an easy question to answer!

If the Spirit should move you to make a donation to Holy Cross Anglican School in honor of my big event then God Bless You! Of course I want your birthday prayers too! As always, checks should be made payable to: Holy Cross Anglican School and sent to:

Holy Cross Anglican School

San Pedro Town

Ambergris Caye, Belize

Many thanks and blessings, Francis, The Birthday Girl!!

Please take a moment to read Volunteering in Belize part 2. a great blog done by one of our volunteers Julie.

Happy Friday the 13th

2009-11-13T08:52:00.000-08:00

November 13, 2009

Dear Friends,

Holy Cross Anglican School

San Pedro Town

Ambergris Caye, Belize

Many thanks and blessings, Francis, The Birthday Girl!!

Holy Cross Staff at Work

2009-10-31T15:25:00.000-07:00

Hard working staff at the Halloween Fair.....Mr. Freddy and Mr. Jason preparing the delicious bar-b-que, Vernon trying to maintain order at the Haunted House and me decorating trick or treat bags and handing out candy! You can see more Halloween on Julie's Volunteering in Belize part 2 blog.

Good News - Miss Francis

2009-10-19T11:17:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends of Holy Cross, I love sharing good news and we've been blessed with lots of wonderful happenings recently. No, we haven't been adopted by Oprah or Bill Gates so we still need your financial contributions! But, even in the midst of financial need, God continues to shower us with blessings - smile.

Harvest Sunday - Yesterday was our third Harvest Celebration and it was amazing! Over six hundred students and their families gathered at the San Pedro High School Nunez auditorium to worship and thank God for His many gifts. Harvest here in Belize is similar to Thanksgiving in the States - a time of giving thanks and sharing. We asked all our students to bring an item(s) for the school Feeding Program - the pictures tell the story. What an incredible outpouring of little bags of rice, flour and sugar; cans of evaporated milk; spaghetti noodles; salt; milk powder; tomato paste; boxes of macaroni, etc - wow! Each class presented a Harvest item....."Bringing in the Sheaves", "We Plow the Field and Scatter", "They Will Know We Are Christians", more songs and poems and tears in my eyes. The teachers did a beautiful job with decorations, Fr. Perez was able to come from Belize City to conduct the service (thanks to the efforts of Mrs. Leslie, General Manager of Anglican Schools), one mother donated a cake which raised $125US in a silent auction and God was mightily thanked!

Electric Bill was paid! Many thanks to the members of the Belize Mission Project for their wonderful financial donations which enabled the School to pay that hideous electric bill (over $2,000US). The lights will stay on - yea! For seventeen years, Dr. Frank Whipps has brought a group of dentists and support personnel to Belize. They staff free clinics all over the country, including here in San Pedro. Several years ago some of their members visited Holy Cross and informally 'adopted' the school as part of their outreach program. I was able to share dinner with these lovely folks from all across the US and gratefully received their contributions. Thank you Belize Mission Project!!! (If you are interested in additional information, please check out their web site at Belize Mission Project.

New Shoes! Thanks to FootLocker, the efforts of Aylson Kanning and the connections made by Belize Mission Project, Holy Cross received almost fifty pairs of beautiful new shoes! There will be lots of 'happy feet' in the school just as soon as we can distribute the shoes to those in need - four pairs have already found new homes - smile. The donation came at a perfect time as the weather has turned cool and rainy. Before school started we gave out over three hundred pairs of shoes so our supply was really low. Thank you FootLocker, Aylson and BMP!!!

Holy Cross Foundation Wed Page! Last year almost twenty volunteers who worked at Holy Cross from seven different States got together and formed a Foundation. The goal of the Foundation is to benefit Holy Cross Anglican School through increasing awareness, raising funds and seeking grants on behalf of the school. Several of these folks have been hard at work getting a web site going and it is now up!!! Check out this link which is open for tax deductible donations via credit card right now: Multiply Communications.

And, please check out the web page: Holy Cross Education Foundation. Many thanks to Brian, Tim, John and Pat!!

Cursillo! Many of you may be familiar with Cursillo (also known as Walk to Emmaus, Tres Dias, similar to Chiros and Happening) which is a Christ-centered, three day retreat. Here in Belize, the Anglican Diocese holds a Cursillo Weekend every other year. Just a few weeks ago twelve members of the school staff attended the Weekend. Vernon and I served on Team along with the Minister of Education, Patrick Faber. It was a glorious three days which nourished everyone's faith and brought us all closer to God and each other. I can see the wonderful effects of the Weekend already!

New Education Officer! San Pedro/Caye Caulker finally received our very own Education Officer, Ms. Candy Armstrong. She will be the liaison between all the local schools and the Ministry of Education and also serve as a valuable resource . With several public schools to choose from, where do you think she enrolled her three children?!? Holy Cross Anglican School is pleased (and very proud!) that she entrusted the education of her children to us!

Holy Cross placed 29th in the Nation! At a meeting on Friday with the District Education Officer, we learned that Holy Cross Anglican School placed 29th in the nation in overall scores on the mandatory Primary School Exams. This examination is given to all students at the end of Standard VI (eighth grade). There are 292 primary school in Belize so 29th is pretty good - especially when we take into account that we only had most of our students for one or two years. Yea, Holy Cross!

I do love sharing good news and you are the very folks who make the good news happen!! Please continue to uphold us in your prayers and send your much needed contribution to:

Holy Cross Anglican School
San Pedro Town
Ambergris Caye, Belize

Many thanks and blessings, Francis

Industrial Stove Donation

2009-10-13T14:30:00.000-07:00

Today Holy Cross Celebrated the donation of a new industrial stove with a ribbon cutting ceremony followed by lunch prepared by Chef Victor Nal of Sunset Grill.

Preparing and serving breakfast a fruit snack and lunch daily for 500 kids is no small feat - even the busiest restaurant in town does not serve that many daily let alone 5 days a week. Holy Cross School and kitchen staff headed by Miss Rosalia is very grateful for Chef Victor's training help in the kitchen.

Chef Victor is a frequent volunteer with the Feeding Program at the School and was recently selected Belize Chef of the year for 2009.

The stove is a gift from Tony and Ginger Rogers of Texas who volunteered at Holy Cross this past summer. Ginger was helping with literacy and remedial reading and Tony with building. They asked the school what was needed most and they went back home and raised the money for an industrial stove.

Ginger and Tony got the stove got to Amarillo Texas to the Word at Work Ministry to Pastor Tim Tam. Transportation from Texas to San Pedro was generously provided by Belize Natural Energy Trust headquartered in Belmopan. Sterling Vorus of Island Ferry stepped up and voluntered to get the stove from Belize City to San Pedro.

Among the people who came out to celebrate were officials Sylvia Baumgart Laasner and Deborah Sewell from BNET were.

Miss Roselia and Chef Victor - Stove donated by Ginger and Tony Rogers

Stove donated by Ginger and Tony Rogers

Touring the school

Lunch time

Checking out the library

Ribbon cutting ceremony

Speeches and thank yous

Watching the ribbon cutting ceremony

Speeches and thank yous

Ribbon cutting

3 cheers for a great new stove and all who helped get it here and install it.

Cafeteria annex

Lunch time

Lunch prepared by Chef Victor

Good words for kids to read daily

The writing is on the wall

I agree with that 100%

Official ribbon cutting ceremony

2009-10-13T08:55:00.000-07:00

Please join the staff and students of Holy Cross Anglican School in San Pedro on Tuesday, October 13th at 11am for the official ribbon cutting ceremony and installation of the school's new restaurant-quality stove. The stove is a gift from Tony and Ginger Rogers of Texas who volunteered at Holy Cross this past summer. Transportation from Texas to San Pedro was generously provided by Belize Natural Energy Trust headquartered in Belmopan. Officials from BNET will be present at the ceremony.

A sumptuous lunch will follow the ceremony prepared by Chef Victor Nal of the Sunset Grill. Chef Victor is a frequent volunteer with the Feeding Program at the School and was recently selected Belize Chef of the year for 2009.

501c3 = Tax Deductable Contributions

2009-09-29T09:41:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends of Holy Cross, The Holy Cross Education Foundation has been established as a 501c3!!!!!!! Now you can make your TAX DEDUCTIBLE contributions to that organization.

Please send your check made payable to:
Holy Cross Education Foundation and mail to:
Holy Cross Educational Foundation7550 Corporate Way, Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Your donation is tax deductible. The federal tax ID is 27-0626278.

Many, many thanks to Brian Ostenso and the folks at Stephen's Episcopal Church in Edina, MN who labored long and hard to make this happen. Of course you can continue to send donations straight to Holy Cross Anglican School, San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, Belize. The only difference is that contributions to the Foundation are tax deductible.

Blessings, Francis

Great News

2009-09-29T08:59:00.000-07:00

Holy Cross Education Foundation and mail to:

Holy Cross Educational Foundation

7550 Corporate Way,

Eden Prairie, MN 55344

Your donation is tax deductible. The federal tax ID is 27-0626278.

Many, many thanks to Brian Ostenso and the folks at Stephen's Episcopal Church in Edina, MN who labored long and hard to make this happen. Of course you can continue to send donations straight to Holy Cross Anglican School, San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, Belize. The only difference is that contributions to the Foundation are tax deductible. Blessings, francis

September 2009 - Miss Francis

2009-09-16T18:33:00.000-07:00

Wow! School has started and 527 children are learning, playing, laughing and enjoying a nutritious feeding program here at Holy Cross. Only a few so far have been sent to the Office and we pray this trend will last throughout the year! As always we are counting on you, our friends and supporters, to make sure we can continue to offer the highest quality education program in the safest environment possible to the children of San Pedro.

Thanks be to God, hundreds of wonderful folks volunteered their time and talents here this summer. They painted (just about everything that didn’t move), installed insulation, built storm shutters, constructed a marvelous deck around the Upper Division, enlarged the Standard VI class to accommodate 39 (!) students, roofed an area adjacent to the cafeteria (thanks Tony!), repaired school furniture and organized lots of school supplies. In addition they held glorious, fun-filled, Christ-centered Vacation Bible Schools, conducted Literacy Programs (yea Ginger!) and offered swimming classes at the Tides. It was a very busy, enriching summer for our children. Thank you Volunteer Mission Teams. You helped keep our children safe and sound while preparing the school for this new year !!

We were also able, over the summer, to find sponsors for thirty-five of our graduates to attend high school. As always I was amazed at the kindness and generosity of the larger Holy Cross community. All twenty-one of our 2009 graduates who applied for scholarships received them, as did our 12 graduates from 2008 plus two graduates who wanted to go to night school. Thanks be to God these young folks are walking toward a brighter future everyday. In June 2010 we hope to graduate thirty-nine students from Standard VI. If you're interested in helping with a high school scholarship, please let me know. Cost per scholarship is $500US per student.

We have two exciting projects planned for the fall. The first is building and equipping our soon-to-be Holy Cross Preschool. We have been asked by the Ministry of Education to have the classrooms up and running as soon as possible – we’re praying by December. We plan to have morning and afternoon sessions that will serve approximately 50 children ages three and four from the San Mateo community. The need is great and we hope the resources will be available to get started. Our biggest concern is acquiring the necessary landfill, which is so expensive. Our ‘friendly’ developer to the north has consistently failed to honor his promises to assist in this effort, so we really need your prayers and financial support!

Our second project is the construction of a state-of-the art composting toilet system capable of meeting the needs of our students AND protecting the environment. Thanks be to God and the Episcopal Church Women, the school received a $41,000US United Thank Offering grant!!! Construction should start within the next few weeks – not a moment too soon. We have long lines at the bathrooms everyday and our holding tank has to be pumped out monthly - another $500US expense. It’s hard to imagine how excited we are about toilets - smile.

Holy Cross is blessed again this year that Principal Grace Williams returned. Mrs. Williams actually retired several years ago after thirty-nine years in education. Thank goodness she is delaying 'rocking on the porch' in favor of strengthening Holy Cross and mentoring staff and students. We also welcomed Ms. Olivia Tasher as Vice-Principal. Ms. Tasher has over twenty years experience in primary education and is already making wonderful contributions in the Infant Division. In addition ten of our returning teachers spent their summer vacations taking education classes offered by the University of Belize (in the Holy Cross Computer Center - yea!), and are so much better prepared and equipped to be in the classroom. Holy Cross Anglican School is definitely coming together - smile!!

Yes, we are definitely off to a great start, but we need your help to stay the course. I know September isn't the best time to be asking for financial support, but......

*we need to feed our children in September! At a cost of one dollar per day per student for breakfast with milk, mid-morning fruit snack, full lunch and purified water in every classroom that is $527US per day or $2,635 per week!!! Many of our children don't receive breakfast at home, rarely have fresh fruit or milk or a nutritious, well-balanced lunch. The parents who can afford to contribute to the Feeding Program do so with financial contributions, food or volunteering at the school. Hungry children cannot learn regardless of the quality of the teachers or the availability of school supplies. We need YOUR help to maintain the Feeding Program!

*we need to purchase textbooks in September! Although the Government of Belize provided most of our textbooks, we still need supplementary materials. Just last week the school spent almost $3,000US on Social Studies materials. And we continue to need basic reading resources. We need YOUR help to acquire essential books and materials!

*we need to pay our energy bills in September! In order to protect the integrity of the 40 computers were generously given, we must air condition the computer center. In order to safe guard the thousands of books volunteers loving brought down in their suitcases, we need to air condition the Library. Unfortunately, air conditioning is very expensive in San Pedro. Last month we paid $2,017US for the electric bill. We need YOUR help to maintain the Computer Center and Library!

*we need to pay our water bills in September! We've had an exceptionally dry summer with almost no rain. Usually we spend the summer praying we aren't hit by a hurricane or torrential rains; this summer we've been praying for rain. Our cistern (which supplies the school) ran empty in August and we had to fill up with town water. The school uses approximately 7,000 gallons of water a week as the kitchen staff washes tons of dishes. At a cost of $113.27 a week that's over $450 a month when we rely on Town water. We need YOUR help to make sure the kitchen runs smoothly and our little ones eat clean and healthy food off of clean and healthy dishes!

Simply put, the children of Holy Cross need your continuing support and assistance! Each of you has been an integral part of the miracle of Holy Cross. Through you, God has richly blessed this 'not so little any more' school. A firm foundation has been built which was no easy job in the middle of a swamp. Now I pray you will stand with us as we try to break the chains of poverty, abuse and ignorance. We need YOUR financial support and your prayers in September and October and November and.....

Please send checks made payable to 'Holy Cross Anglican School' to:

Holy Cross Anglican School
San Pedro Town
Ambergris Caye Belize

In closing we'd like to once again thank our Volunteer Mission Teams who were so incredible this summer. They include:
All Saints Episcopal Church in Fort Worth, TX
St. Stephen's Episcopal Church in Edina, MN
Christ Episcopal Church in Raleigh, NC
Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in Kingwood, TX
Christ and Grace Episcopal Church in Petersburg, VA
Anglican Diocese from Newfoundland, CAN
St. Simon's Anglican Church in Oakville, CAN
St. Paul's Episcopal School in Baltimore, MD
Eastern Shore Chapel in Virginia Beach, VA
Church of the Good Shepherd, Norfolk, VA
St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Fort Worth, TX
St. Matthew's Episcopal Church in Pacific Palisades, CA
Church of the Transfiguration in Aurora, CA
Kiwanis Club Young Professional Division in Newport News, VA

May God richly bless your willingness to share your time, talents and treasure with His less fortunate children in Belize. In Christ, Francis

Swimming Classes and playground pics

2009-07-31T18:59:00.000-07:00

Holy Cross Volunteers Offer Swimming Classes

Volunteers to Holy Cross Anglican School from St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Pacific Palisades, California taught swimming classes the week of July 20 - 24. Almost 50 Island children participated in this program and learned vital water survival skills. The group stayed at the Tides and the management there graciously offered their pool and dock for swimming lessons. Classes were held each morning from 9am until 11:30 with a mid-morning snack served by the volunteers.

Saturday morning was the culmination of a week of fun and learning as the First Annual Swim Meet was held. Prizes were awarded and all participants received new bathing suits and delicious ice cream cones from Manelly’s.

In the afternoons the team came to Holy Cross and helped ready the school for reopening (August 31). Major projects included constructing a deck around the upper division classrooms, erecting a playground slide and lots of painting.

Sandra bringing soccer-balls from kids in Canada

Belize University teacher training course at Holy Cross - 6 week course

Why the new playground is such a good thing

San Mateo house

Kids enjoying the playground

Fun in the sun

Playground thanks to Dita and Ed and many other wonderful people

Happy girl

Playground

Kids playing

Nice place close to home to play

Climbing high

Having fun

Good news - Miss Francis

2009-06-25T12:45:00.000-07:00

Good news......Great JOY.........

Yesterday I went to Belize City with our teacher who has had problems with her ex, (the San Pedro policeman). Our attorney was there (a minor miracle in itself) and the case was heard in Family Court. The Magistrate gave the teacher a one year protection order (YEA!) against her ex and gave him a good talking to. At one point he asked what would happen if he violated the order...would it go to the police department? (of course that's where all his buddies are!). The magistrate said "NO, it will immediately come back to this court!"

Our teacher also got the visitation with their child set up the way she wanted it. She will take the boy to the ex's mother and he can only visit with him with his mother present. Thanks be to God!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We were jumping up and down with joy especially after the magistrate here in San Pedro was so rude to Vernon and me on Monday. That magistrate told us that he didn't grant our teacher a temporary protection order because the 'conditions didn't warrant it and I am the absolute judicial authority in San Pedro!!'. As I mentioned in my last email he was shrieking at us. Made me really happy when the Family Court judge found enough evidence to extend the temporary protection order for ONE YEAR - YIPPEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Needless to say, our teacher was beaming ear to ear and so were we. Please keep a-praying as Vernon and I still have to deal with the screaming magistrate in San Pedro on July 20!!!! Love and hugs, francis

Graduation 2009 - Miss Francis

2009-06-24T09:07:00.000-07:00

Holy Cross Anglican School proudly graduated twenty five Standard VI students on Sunday, June 21st. The Nunez Auditorium at San Pedro High School was beautifully decorated and hundreds of parents, family members, students, staff members, volunteers and friends joined together to honor the graduating class of 2009.

Mistress of Ceremonies and Standard II teacher, Ms. Zulma Vasquez called on Ms. Nancy Schorr, Team Leader for the volunteer group from Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in Kingwood, Texas to offer the Opening Prayer. Following the National Anthem, Gaspar Villamil, School Salutatorian gave the Welcoming Address. Principal, Mrs. Grace Williams then addressed the crowd encouraging the graduates to continue their education and to remember that hard work is required to accomplish worthy goals.

The Infant Division serenaded the class of 2009 with a most appropriate item, "You've Done Your Job" followed by the Valedictory Address given by Jonathan Martinez. The graduates then preformed their class song, "The Climb" which spoke to their class theme, "The struggles I'm facing sometimes knock me down but I'm not breaking...".

Guest Speaker Mr. Jahmor Lopez, Belize District Education Officer, challenged the graduates to overcome setbacks and failures and to continue climbing their personal mountains. He set the example of Jesus before them and reminded all present that even Jesus stumbled three times on His way to the cross. Jesus got up and continued onward and so should you, Mr. Lopez asserted.

Mrs. Francis Wilson gave the Local Manager's Address reminding all present that only three short years ago, Holy Cross didn't exist. Today it is a vibrant primary school with 500 students. Mrs. Wilson also announced the scholarship recipients from the class of 2009. A total of $15,000 in scholarships was awarded to the class of 2009. These scholarships were provided by friends of Holy Cross Anglican School in the US, Canada and England. The following students each received a $1,000 scholarship for First Form: Desmond Bailey, Damaris Caliz, Maite Livingston, Jose Luis Marroquin, Jonathan Martinez, Miriam Palacio, Nolbin Perez, Alvaro Puc, Christian Ramos, Kimberly Reyes, Miriam Rodriguez, Briceydi Vanegas, Gaspar Villamil, Ishtar Williams.

In addition to the scholarships given to the graduating students, ten students who graduated from Holy Cross in 2008 received a $1,000 scholarship to continue onto Second Form. They are Irvin Chacon, Julio Chacon, Kimberly Carrillo, Shaunne Elliott, Victor Hernandez, Michael Howe, Rudy Puc, Estrella Trochez, Samantha Welch and Estrellita Williams.

Mrs. Wilson concluded her remarks by sharing how proud the management and staff of Holy Cross was to be able to assist twenty five of their graduates with scholarships totaling $25,000.

The Middle Division next sang "We Are The World" followed by a very moving 'Passing of the Torch of Knowledge' Ceremony.

Finally the long awaited moment was at hand as the twenty five Standard VI students stood to receive their diplomas. The certificates were distributed by Mrs. Grace Williams and Mr. Jahmor Lopez. The three outstanding students from each class then received gifts distributed by parent volunteers Mrs. Maricruz Martinez and Mrs. Brenda Martinez.

The Graduation Ceremony concluded with a poem, "Be the Best of Whatever You Are", recited by the upper division students, The Vote of Thanks by graduate, Christian Ramos and the final benediction by Mrs. Nancy Schorr.

Twenty five joyful primary school graduates exited the auditorium amid applause and rejoicing. They took their first steps into the next chapter of their lives!

More Donations

2009-06-22T08:03:00.000-07:00

Changes in Latitudes hosted Blog Fiesta breakfast today and raised $115 in donations for Holy Cross School.

In addition to that the Direct Abundance girls handed over $250 from the selling green beads with Alexis at lobsterfest block party. They also picked up a donation of 7 build a bears that made it to the Sunbreeze Hotel thanks to Mary Mooney who donated them and sent to TQ who got them to Jennifer in Houston to bring to us. Thanks also goes out to KC Jayhawks for their donation of a a digital camera - the Kinnon family for 6 big bottles of gummy bear vitamins as well as everyone who came out to enjoy french toast and hot buttered rum syrup for a good cause.

Everything but the Kitchen sink

2009-06-19T13:52:00.000-07:00

Today we went back to the school with the last 2 bags and unpacked and sorted everything the Direct Abundance girls brought yesterday. As you can see below they really did bring everything but the kitchen sink.

After doing that we went to the office and Direct abundance decided on the spot to sponsor one kid with a scholarship to high school for 1 year.

Jo Heather and Cathy also came up with a very exciting plan. Many kids in Canada are required to do 40 h of community service work to graduate high school so the girls will approach schools to have the kids sell chocolate bars to help send a Holy Cross student to High school on a scholarship.

All the Holy Cross kids had to write out why they felt deserving of a scholarship and what area they wanted to study. There were 4 kids left to choose from all had great letters but they chose Damaris who is 14 years old and wants to be a music producer. In her own words... I chose this career because I really love music. Music is my passion I could hear music every day and I don't get bored. I really have to follow my dreams and not give up.

Donations from Canada

2009-06-18T19:00:00.000-07:00

The Direct Abundance girls - Joanne Heather and Cathy arrived in Belize today. They came from Canada with 450 lbs /9 big bags of donations for the Holy Cross School. Of course everyone at the school was overjoyed.

It was perfect timing as well because Carol Babb the from the Ministry of Education was there and so the girls got to meet her and form a connection. This will enable Direct Abundance to help schools on the mainland as well. The Ministry of Education is working towards using Holy Cross as a model for schools in Belize - how exciting. This is a perfect tie in with Direct Abundance because one of their goals is to start getting school in a box here - a kit that is a complete classroom. They are working to get first one down for September so they will be busy girls.

Joanne is also coming back for 2 months this winter and volunteering. Heather will come down for a bit during that time and help with training in special ed teachers - something she has done for 20 years.

All their checked bags were donations mostly for Holy Cross and they are taking one bag to RC school and there will be more coming for both schools in the near future.

They sold chocolate bars to help cover the cost of overweight luggage

Full cart - there is another full one behind me too

Ran into Miss Colette who had just finished her Humane Education session with the kids. Interestingly enough she was talking about volunteering today and what it means to help those in need.

Everything but the kitchen sink

2 special bags of Donations collected from kids at the school where Heather teaches. These are from kids who do not have a lot themselves and were willing to help someone less fortunate. They will be excited to see their bags in pictures.

Dinner at waruguma with Maureen and Tracy who also volunteer at the school. The all hooked up in the internet and will end up working together somehow in regards to the school.

Welcome back

2009-06-05T12:17:00.000-07:00

Maureen and Tracy visited the school today with their magic red suitcase that keeps refilling it self and coming back. A couple of the hot items from today were hot use laminating sheets and chisel point markers - with the teachers doing 5 charts each a week for their classes they go through a lot of ink. They also brought a check on-behalf of them and their church which is always needed to help sustain things like the feeding program.

While here they are going to do some volunteer time next week and get to know the kids and teachers who they are helping out.

Magic suitcase

Maureen Francis Vernon Tracy

A volunteer group checking out the library

Computer lab rules

Justice for All community march

2009-05-29T14:59:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, May 27, at 9:00 am a community march was held in San Pedro under the theme, “Justice For All”!!!!! This march was designed to increase awareness of the abuse suffered by women and children here in San Pedro and throughout Belize. It also focused on how the local Police Department must respond to domestic violence under the Violence Against Women Act of 2007.

The students from Holy Cross were very excited to participate in this march as it was the culmination of a year long educational commitment to breaking the cycle of domestic violence. From the beginning of Holy Cross in 2006, NO corporal punishment has been permitted. This stance has required re-educating teachers who may themselves have been lashed at school, re-educating parents who often expect their children to be beaten if they misbehave and re-educating our students who sometimes don't believe they are misbehaving if they aren't whipped.

We have been assisted in our efforts to promote non-violent discipline by Dr. Kim Shackelford, professor of Social Work at the University of Mississippi and Amrei Joerchel, a PHD candidate in Psychology from Vienna, Austria. Both ladies spent several months at Holy Cross teaching the staff effective classroom management and behavior modification techniques as well as working with many of our aggressive or unruly students. Their presence here at the school underscored the desperate need for counselors in all schools.

The staff and students of Holy Cross Anglican School are grateful to the local and national news media for helping spread the Anti-Abuse Message. No one, man, woman or child should be hit, beaten, threatened, stalked, exploited or terrified by another person. Joining together, we can help stop abuse and achieve "Justice for All"!

Safe and Sound - Miss Francis update

2009-05-28T16:42:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends of Holy Cross,

We are all safe - thanks be to God! The early morning earthquake on May 28th did not effect the Island of Ambergris Caye or San Pedro. There was some damage far south in Belize but at this point it doesn't seem too serious. Thanks to everyone who wrote to check on the school.

This past Sunday, we celebrated the Baptism of seventeen young people at our monthly Family Worship Service. Fr. Wayne Kirten was with us from Belize City and officiated at the service. We were also blessed with the presence of the General Manager of Anglican Schools, Mrs. Marlene Leslie. In addition to everything else we need here at Holy Cross, we desperately need a full time priest and school chaplain. Is anyone out there ready for a sabbatical?!?

The countdown has already begun for the end of school on June 26th. It's just unbelievable how quickly our third (!!!) year has flown by. Graduation for our 25 Standard VI students will be held on June 21st and 17 have applied for scholarships in order to attend high school. At $500US per child for the first year of high school, we NEED your support to help these children continue their education.

We were honored to have the Minister of Education, Patrick Faber along with several members of his staff visit Holy Cross on May 14th. He was very impressed with the school and our students (yay). In fact, he wants a school just like Holy Cross in every district of Belize. He also wants Holy Cross to expand to accommodate 1,000 students AND open a pre-school as soon as possible. We pray for land fill and lots of volunteer teams to get this plan underway. Please see attachment for photos of the Hon. Faber's visit to Holy Cross.

Right now registration is underway for the 2009-10 school year. We are excited that most of our current students will be returning and that so many parents want their children to attend Holy Cross Anglican School. Miss Linda, our Office Manager, is overwhelmed every day with registrations. Many classes are already filled and waiting lists have been started. Please pray for our students (old and new) and for our teachers as we begin preparing for next year.

We bid a sad farewell to two incredible volunteers last week: Dr. Kim Shackelford a professor in the Social Work Department of the University of Mississippi and Ms. Amrei Joerchel, a Ph.D. candidate in Psychology from Vienna, Austria. These two ladies have been at Holy Cross for the last several months providing counseling for our students and offering training for our teachers. We miss them so much.

And speaking of wonderful volunteers, Holy Cross is extremely grateful to the following groups who have lovingly shared their time, talents and treasure with the children of Belize:

St. John's Episcopal Church, Lynchburg, VA

Gainesville State College, Gainesville, GA

Bill Church and his college friends (they graduated 30 years ago!) and families - 13 folks

We are also awaiting the arrival of quite a few volunteer teams who will be with us this summer. Needless to say there is much to be done! In addition to construction and much needed maintenance, volunteers will host after school activities and offer VBS starting in July. As soon as we get some land fill (pray!) we will start on the playground which we desperately need. We are in daily fear that the developer to the north will begin construction on the land we currently are using as a play ground leaving us with no place for recreation - ugh.

On a more personal note, I want to update you on some distressing events here in San Pedro. As you may know Vernon and I were arrested by the San Pedro police on Monday, May 18. We were helping one of the teachers at Holy Cross get away from her abusive (beatings, threatening to kill her, stalking, breaking into her home) ex-common law husband who just happens to be a policeman. In the process of rescuing the teacher her ex (thankfully off duty) jumped through the taxi window -- flattening me on the floor. It seems I may have scratched him ("Wounding") in the process and Vernon tore his shirt ("Destruction of Property") getting him off me. After 9 hours being held at the Police Station (with Vernon being locked up in that horrible holding cell), we appeared in front of the Magistrate, were charged, fingerprinted, granted bail and released. We are still stunned and horrified and have filled formal complaints with the Internal Affairs Department, the Ombudsman and everyone else we can think of - what a mess!

This entire situation has sparked a nationwide outcry against abuse and questionable police practices. The media has been very involved and the outpouring of support has been incredible. I had no idea there was such fear in this community and so much abuse. We NEED a full time councilor and tons of prayers! If you want more information, go to the San Pedro Daily.

Please continue to support the children of Holy Cross with your prayers and contributions. As always every donation is greatly appreciated - smile. Please send school supplies, tennis shoes, backpacks and/or checks made payable to "Holy Cross Anglican School" to:

Holy Cross Anglican School

San Pedro Town Ambergris Caye, Belize

Thanks for visiting our school blog you can also visit the school web site for additional information. And, remember that by joining together we can all participate in the wonderful miracle of Holy Cross Anglican School. As my favorite poem says....

Little drops of water, tiny grains of sand

Make the mighty ocean and the pleasant land.

You are the drops of water and grains of sand!! Please help us keep everything up and running and moving forward. Hundreds of children are depending on YOU!

Many thanks and blessings,

Francis

A clear message

2009-05-27T16:29:00.000-07:00

Central park was full of students teachers and parents who came to show their support against violence within the community. Vernon Wilson gave a speech about why it was so important to come together on this issue and let everyone know that violence is not acceptable and abuse will not be tolerated. The Wilson's are making an effort to let people know that there are options to get to a safer place and that they are willing to help people who are caught in abusive situations.

After the speech - Holy Cross and San Pedro High school kids marched through the streets of San Pedro sending the message out loud and clear - with anti violence slogans on their signs and the chats of justice for all. They even handed out flyers in spanish and english to let people if they or someone they know is a victim of abuse to contact Francis Wilson for help.

Big turn out

Vernon speaking out against violence

March through town

Boys and girls both learning it is not ok to abuse someone

San Pedro High School kids joined in

Holy Cross girl who was handing out flyers

March through town

Jan Brown and Miss Linda aka wonderwoman

Community Wide March

2009-05-26T09:09:00.000-07:00

To All Media, Please plan to attend this incredibly important march in San Pedro tomorrow. Press release follows. Then there are three statements concerning the incident on May 18th. Please read and contact me if you have any questions. Francis Wilson 610-3421 or 226-3456 or Vernon Wilson 610-3425

HOLY CROSS ANGLICAN PRIMARY SCHOOL

PLEASE ANNOUNCE THIS ON THE AIR UNTIL MARCH TIME TOMORROW!!!!!! Thank you

May 26, 2009

Wednesday, May 27, 9:00 am – Central Park. A Community-Wide March is being organized for this day under the theme, “Justice For All”!!!!! This march is designed to increase awareness of the abuse suffered by our women and children here in San Pedro. It will also focus on how the local Police Department must respond to domestic violence under the Violence Against Women Act of 2007.

This march is being held in response to an incident on Monday, May 18, involving the San Pedro Police Department, a teacher from Holy Cross and our very own Vernon & Francis Wilson. Please show your support for “Justice For All” by marching with us!!!!!!! ALL CHILDREN, ALL PARENTS, ALL CITIZENS AND EVERYONE CONCERNED ARE WELCOME !

May 19, 2009

My name is Francis Wilson. I am a US citizen and a resident of Belize where I have lived for the past nine years. My husband and I are volunteer missionaries with the Anglican Diocese of Belize. Currently I am serving as Local Manager and Volunteer Coordinator at Holy Cross Anglican School in San Pedro. My husband and I have overseen the building and development of Holy Cross starting with three classrooms and 62 students in September 2006 to the current level of 512 students, seventeen classrooms, a complete library and a 40 unit computer lab.

I am writing to detail the events that occurred Monday, May 18, 2009 from approximately 9am until shortly after 6pm.

I arrived at the Holy Cross School Office around 9am. Shortly after that the Principal, Mrs. Grace Williams said she needed to talk with me. Mrs. Williams shared her concerns about one of the teachers, Ms.X. Based on conversations she and Ms. X had had the previous weekend, Mrs. Williams was fearful that Ms. X was in physical danger from her ex-common law husband, Mark Martinez. Mr. Martinez is also the father of Ms. X's 2 year old son and is employed as a policeman by the San Pedro Police Department.

I was aware that the previous year, Ms. X had suffered a severe beating which left her black and blue and out of work for several days. At that time Ms. X filed charges against Policeman Mark Martinez. When I later asked Ms. X what had happened she told me "Nothing, because he is a policeman." She also told me that she was afraid he would kill her and that she couldn't get any protection from the local Police Department where Mr. Martinez was employed.

Mrs. Williams was especially concerned because Ms. X had not come to work on Monday and had not called to notify the Office of her absence. That behavior was out of character for Ms. X who is a conscientious employee. In addition, another teacher at Holy Cross, had told Mrs. Williams that the door to Ms. X's house was open when she walked by on her way to the school that morning. In my presence, Mrs. Williams then called Ms. X's cell phone. Mrs. Williams asked to speak to Ms. X. She then identified herself as the school principal, said she must speak to Ms. X and would call back in five minutes. Mrs. Williams informed me that a man had answered the phone.

In about 5 minutes Mrs. Williams redialed Ms. X's cell number. I heard Mrs. Williams ask, "Ms. X is that you?" then, "Are you alright?" then, "Is he there with you?" then "Are you in danger?". Finally Mrs. Williams said, "You've got to tell me where you are", then "We'll come get you".

Mrs. Williams hung up the phone said Ms. X was frightened and that Mark Martinez was with her. I immediately called my husband, Vernon, and the school secretary called a taxi cab driven by Mr. Victor Barbosa and we left to find Ms. X. We located Ms. X and her son in the company of a man I later learned was Mark Martinez in front of the RC Church on Barriar Reef Drive. My husband and I got out of the taxi and went toward Ms. X. As soon as Ms. X saw us she ran to the taxi and got in the back seat. She was crying and the baby was crying.

Mark Martinez dressed in a white stripped shirt and pants ran after her shouting, "You can't do this to me!" and "Give me my son!" and "X, don't do this!" My husband and I were also screaming for him to leave Ms. X alone and to go to the Police Station. I remember saying over and over again, "Go to the Police Station!!" and "Call the police!". The taxi didn't move as Mark Martinez was holding onto the cab, pushing open the sliding window and screaming at Ms. X. Ms. X was sitting in the back of the van, I got into the van, slammed the door, all the while screaming for us all to "Go to the Police Station". I kept trying to slide the window shut to get Mark Martinez out of the way so we could leave.

Mark Martinez then jumped into the taxi through the window behind the driver seat. In the process he slammed me against the opposite door of the taxi. I started screaming hysterically for him to get off me. I'm not quite sure what happen next but somehow he was pulled out of the taxi. I jumped to my feet and put myself between the open door and Ms. X attempting to protect the baby and her. The next thing I knew a man dressed in an Immigration Department uniform was standing at the open side door of the taxi telling us we couldn't do anything because "That man is a policeman". Mark Martinez was not in a police uniform but in casual clothes. He left the scene and we finally headed to the police station about 2 minutes away.

When we got to the Police Station, Mark Martinez was already there talking to some of the uniformed policemen. My husband, and I went into the Station where we met with Chief Arnold in his office Mark Martinez was also present. I explained what had happened, all the while Mr. Martinez was denying everything I said. Mark Martinez kept insisting that he and Ms. X had just had a little argument and now everything was fine, not at all what Ms. X had said to me in the cab! She said they had long ago stopped living together but that he continued to terrorize her. That he had recently broken into her home, slapped her, thrown her against the wall and threatened to kill her. (I later learned that Ms. X had talked with Mark Martinez's mother who lives in Belize City on Sunday, May 17. Ms.X told her the abuse she was suffering from the hands of Mr. Martinez. Mr. Martinez's mother came to San Pedro and spoke with her son. I can only imagine that this may have provoked Mr. Martinez and led to the incident early Monday morning.)

Chief Arnold said if there was a problem with abuse Ms. X should have taken care of it and called the police. I responded that she had tried to get police help but had been unsuccessful. I mentioned the complaint Ms. X had filed the previous year against Mark Martinez and that it had seemed to disappear. Chief Arnold then informed me that it was Ms. X who dropped the charges and he considered the matter resolved. I said she had only done that because she was frightened to death. Chief Arnold responded that she had no reason to be afraid but I insisted she did. That the very fact that Mark Martinez was an active duty policeman made the matter very difficult for Ms. X.. Chief Arnold said he had informed all his policeman that he would not tolerate any of them laying a hand on a woman. All the while Mark Martinez was claiming how innocent he was.

Finally Chief Arnold said we should all give statements and we were split up. Ms. X and the baby went in one direction, Vernon was taken to another room, I remained in the center section and Mark Martinez roamed around the entire office laughing and joking with his fellow officers. After I gave my statement and insisted that Mr. Martinez be charged with assault, I waited for Ms.X. I had been told she needed to go upstairs to the Clerk of Court to obtain a restraining order against Mark Martinez.

While waiting, I looked out the front door and saw Mark Martinez talking to the taxi driver, Mr. Barbosa. I was concerned that Mark Martinez might be attempting to pressure Mr. Barbosa into a certain slant on recent events. I walked over to the taxi and asked Mark Martinez to step away from the cab. He refused, I asked him again and he again refused saying I had no right to ask him to move. I responded that I was the paying client for the cab and therefore I had the right to ask. He again refused and said he would only move if Mr. Barbosa asked him. Mr. Barbosa asked Mark Martinez to move off and he did.

I got into the taxi and apologized to Mr. Barbosa for getting him involved in the situation. I told him that I knew no one wanted to get on the bad side of the police. Mr. Barbosa replied that it didn't matter what the man (Mark Martinez) said to him, he (Mr. Barbosa) would only tell the truth and tell what he saw. I said that's great. Then I got out of the taxi and went back into the police station.

About 10 minutes later the same man I mentioned earlier who was in an Immigration Department uniform came into the Police Station with three young girls that appeared to be having immigration issues. A short while later I saw Mark Martinez talking with the Immigration Officer. I walked over and stood close enough to hear a little of the conversation. Mark Martinez was telling the Immigration Officer what to say had happened. I approached Mark Martinez and told him it was not right to try to change a witness story. Mark Martinez told me "You better stay out of my personal business" and went on talking to the Immigration Officer. I again said it wasn't right to be doing what he was doing and that he should know better. He walked towards me and said, "You shouldn't get into my business."

About this time I saw Ms. X and went over to her. We went upstairs together to see the Clerk of Court for the restraining order. It was about 11:30am. After waiting for about 15 minutes we went in to see the Clerk of Court who started asking why Ms. X wanted a restraining order. Ms. X said she had just told the police all that was going on and why she was afraid. The clerk said she had to have the information again. Ms. X answered that Mark Martinez was threatening her, had repeatedly broken into her home, often hit, punched and kicked her, had been stalking her and told her he would kill her. The clerk said it sounded like this abuse had been going on for a long time and why hadn't Ms. X done something about it. Ms.X said she had tried but the police wouldn't help her and she was too frightened.

The clerk asked Ms.X why she was wanting a restraining order right now...had something recently happened? Ms. X told her that early on Monday around 2am, Mark Martinez had broken down her door, pulled her up out of bed, hit her on the right side of her head, slammed her against the wall and threatened to kill her. The Clerk asked if Ms. X had filed charges? Had she told the police that she wanted this to go to court? Ms. X answered "yes" to both questions. The clerk then called to speak with Sargent Wade to make sure charges had been filed against Mark Martinez. After getting off the phone, the clerk told Ms. X that no charges had been filed but that the matter was being investigated.

Ms. X dropped her head and started crying. She said, "Do you see what I mean? I told Sargent Wade I wanted Mark Martinez to be prosecuted and now he is denying it. They won't believe me until they find my dead body." The clerk said not to worry that she would make sure Ms. X got the restraining order and that what was happening wasn't right. About that time Sargent Wade walked into the Clerk's office. All three of us told him that Mark Martinez should be persecuted. He replied that the matter was under investigation. Then Ms.X finished filling out the forms and was told she needed to pay $5.00 downstairs for a copy of the form. The clerk also told Ms.X that she needed a doctor's report. The clerk gave her the form and we left the police station to go see Dr. Dan Gonzales. It was about 1pm.

My husband Vernon had just returned from seeing Dr. Gonzales with his left hand bandaged as the result of a bad sprain caused when Mark Martinez jerked his hand. We waited until Dr. Gonzales returned to the office from lunch around 1:20pm. Ms. X was seen and the form filled out.

After seeing Dr. Gonzales, I suggested Ms. X go get lunch and seek the safety of Holy Cross. The baby was tired and hungry and Ms. X looked exhausted. I also told Ms. X to go to her home and remove her personal items and we would put her in a safe place. Mr. Barbosa picked Ms. X up, got her lunch took her and another employee of the school to get Ms. X's things and I returned to the Police Station to pay the $5.00 fee.

When I got back to the Police Station I was informed by one of the policemen that I was under arrest and so was my husband. I was told to call someone to take my personal items and that I could not leave the Police Station. I was truly stunned. Not only was I stunned but I was deeply concerned with the treatment I was receiving from the police. I kept trying to find out what I was charged with, if I would be imprisoned, what was going on?!? The police were abrupt, often ignored me, ordered me around, told me sit on a small wooden first aid kit box and refused to answer most of my questions. Meanwhile Mark Martinez continued to go and come all around the station. He sat and read both my statement and my husband's and our complaints against him. He then proceeded to write out his own statement which appeared to be at least two pages long. My husband and I were given a paragraph by the officers who took our statements.

About this time my husband began complaining of terrific pains in his back. I heard him repeatedly ask different policemen if he could go to see Dr. Dan Gonzales whose office is about a one minute walk from the Police Station. No one would answer him. He kept asking and requested that an officer be allowed to accompany him to the doctor. He was told he couldn't leave the Police Station because he was under arrest.

Finally the officer who was in charge of receiving payment for the restraint order returned from lunch. It was approximately 2pm. I paid the $5.00 and went upstairs to give the receipt to the Clerk. The Clerk was in a hearing and I was waiting outside the door to her office. After about 15 minutes a policeman came upstairs and informed me that since I was under arrest I could not be behind the police desk. I was once again stunned. I looked at the officer and said, "Do you mean to tell me that I can't deliver this receipt to the Clerk for the restraining order because I can't be behind the police desk and Mark Martinez has been all over this station?!?" The officer looked rather sheepish and said "Ok, but as soon as you give that to the clerk come right back down stairs."

About 3pm after giving the receipt to the Clerk, I went back downstairs. I couldn't find my husband and was asking everyone where he was. I was hopeful that he had gone to the doctor but didn't know for sure. No one would tell me. Finally a lady who was waiting on another matter told me the police had taken him and locked him up in the holding cell. I was horrified. Why had this happened??? And, still Mark Martinez was doing whatever he wanted, chatting up all his friends in uniform, trading jokes and laughing a great deal.

I started making phone calls to everyone I knew...Mrs. Williams at the School, Mrs.Carol Babb, Deputy CEO in the Ministry of Education and several personal friends on the Island. About half hour later I heard my husband's voice and saw him in the back of the police station with Mark Martinez and another officer. I was frightened. Still no one would tell me anything, just that proper police procedures were being followed and that I could not leave the Police Station because I was under arrest.

A while later my husband was taken into Chief Arnold's office. He was in there for a half hour or more. Many officers went in and out of Chief Arnold's office while my husband was inside. Finally after what seem an eternity, my husband came out of Chief Arnold's office and was allowed to talk with me. He told me that several folks had called Chief Arnold to express their outrage that we had been arrested. He also said that we would eventually be allowed to go home sometime later in the day.

I asked Vernon what had happened when he was put in the holding cell. He said he was taken and locked up and was in the cell for about 45minutes. Then Mark Martinez and another officer Clark came and got him out, took him into one of the back rooms and told him that he should drop the charges against Mark Martinez because it wasn't a good idea to make enemies.

Around 4:30pm Vernon and I were taken upstairs where we appeared before the Magistrate and were formally charged. I was charged with "Wounding". It seemed that Mark Martinez had presented fingernail imprints on his arm. I may have grabbed his arm. when he flattened me in the taxi. Vernon was charged with "Destruction of Property" as Mark Martinez's shirt was torn when Vernon pulled him off of me. And Mr. Martinez alleged that Vernon had broken his gold chain and that another chain was missing. I believe this also occurred when Mark Martinez lunged through the window of the taxi van. Trial date was set for June 22nd.

We then were taken back downstairs where I was so happy to see the entire staff of Holy Cross Anglican School standing in the waiting area. I wasn't allowed to speak to anybody and was again told to sit on the first aid box up against the wall. We waited. Vernon was taken into another office and I was kept in the large open area. Finally around 5pm a police officer came and asked me all sorts of questions about where I was from, names and ages of family members, when I got married, etc. All sorts of questions that didn't make a lot of sense to me. He was speaking very quickly and I had difficulty understanding what he was saying. I asked him several times to speak more slowly or to repeat his questions but he continued speaking very rapidly. I was then fingerprinted and felt like a low life criminal.

Vernon was called upstairs to make bail and one of the teachers signed for him. He came back downstairs and was told he could go. Meanwhile I continued to sit on the box. Several police officers fussed at the Holy Cross staff telling them they were making too much noise and ordering them to leave. I overheard one of the officers say to another policeman, "Do they think they can teach us a lesson by being here?" and they both laughed.

I continued to sit and grow more terrified by the minute. I was frightened that the Clerk of Court would leave and I would be locked up over night. Neither my husband nor any of the teachers were allowed to speak to me. Mark Martinez came over and sat (in a chair) beside me and said, "I told you not to get into my business". Then he walked off and joined a few other officers for more chatting and joking.

Finally one of the teachers stormed upstairs to find out what was going on. About 10 minutes later I was called upstairs and given bail. At almost 6pm we were finally allowed to leave the Police Station.

I have never in all my 59 years been so humiliated or treated with such contempt as I was in the San Pedro Police Station on Monday, May 18, 2009. I have never been arrested before, never even gotten a traffic ticket. I am a law abiding citizen here in Belize to try to help educate children from disadvantaged circumstances. The charges against me are ridiculous and everyone in that Police Department knew it. One policeman told me "We have no choice but to arrest you. Anyone can file a complaint at any time and we must prepare charges." I know for a fact that that statement is not true. I feel these were trumped up charges that never would have resulted in my arrest if the complainant had not been a policeman.

I must also admit that in the short time since this hellish day occurred, I've heard numerous horror stories from folks here at the school, at a restaurant where my husband and I went to eat after making bail, from a taxi driver and several friends. Having experienced what I experienced on Monday I have no other choice than to believe that many of these sad stories are true. I am appalled that this happened and sincerely hope and pray something will be done to improve the Police Department here in San Pedro and to protect innocent victims like Ms.X from what I consider police brutality. If Mark Martinez were not a policeman, I don't believe he could have gotten away with terrorizing Ms. X and intimidating her into total panic.

From Vernon Wilson

19-05-2009

Report of incident on 18-05-2009 on San Pedro, Ambergris Caye.

I was at home doing some work when I received a phone call from my wife Francis. She is the local Manager of Holy Cross Anglican School in San Mateo Area on Ambergris Caye . I am the Director of that same school. She was very worried about one of our teachers who was not at school that morning. She was informed by the principal that Ms. X had confided in her the past weekend that her ex-commom law husband was threatening her life. When another teacher showed up at school on the 18th and told Mrs. Williams, the principal, that she

went by Ms. X’s home and found the door wide open, she was concerned. It appeared that the door had been broken in and no one was there.

Mrs. Williams then called Ms.X’s cell phone and a man answered. Mrs. Williams asked to speak to Ms. X and was told that she was not there. Mrs. Williams said that she did not think that was the truth and she would call back in 5 minutes and she had better be able to speak to Ms.X.

5 minutes later she called again and Ms. X was allowed to talk but could only answer yes and no. Through a series of questions she indicated that Officer Martinez was holding her and her son and she was fearful for her life and that they were heading to the Belize Bank.

My wife then asked if I would come over so we could go and see if we could find them. I dropped everything and rushed over to the school where the taxi and my wife were waiting. We drove down to town and found them outside the Roman Catholic Church by Fido’s Restaurant. I called Chief Arnold at the police station and informed him I needed help and where we were.

We pulled up in front of them and my wife and I got out of the van. My wife ran over to Ms. X who was shaking and in tears and while I was confronting the officer, who was in plain clothes and off duty. They ran to the van and Ms. X jumped into the back of the van with her young son.

Mr. Martinez then tried to pursue Ms. X into the van but my wife was between him and the van. I was behind him at this time. I called Chief Arnold again and pleaded for help and ask him to send help fast, as one of his officers was assaulting my wife.

A crowd of people were forming around the area by this time.

The officer shoved my wife and I got between him and her and told him he was to get out of here and we were going to the police and filling a report against him. He got enraged and was shouting you ___ , you can not interfere with my personal life. We had an argument last night and we worked it all out and my son is coming with me and she is not going back to your school.

I said that as long as she was an employ of my school she was under my supervision and if she needed assistance it was available. And, obviously she wanted it now.

My wife closed the door to the van and he was still yelling at me and my wife. He then went around the van and tried to get into the van via the open window on the driver’s side. He was shouting to his x wife “don’t you do this to me” over and over. My wife had come around from the back of the van and was trying to close the window to prevent him from getting in. I told her to get into the van and let’s go to the police station, which is about 4 blocks away.

My wife got into the van and put herself between the officer who was on the outside of the van yelling at me and his x wife at the same time. He then realized that the window was no longer being blocked and he opened it all the way and proceeded to jump head first into the van.

I reached out and grabbed his shirt as he lunged at my wife through the open window. She was slammed into the side of the van by the force of his movement. His shirt tore and I grabbed his belt as he kicked his way the rest of the way into the van. He turned at me and said you tore my shirt. I said yes and I am not letting you go and with that he hit me in the right side of my face with his left hand and then grabbed my left hand thumb and tried to break it. I was holding onto his belt with my left hand so he could not get at my wife or his x wife.

Sometime during this struggle to restrain him, a friend of ours Mr. Bob Hamilton had jumped into the van through the passenger door and placed himself between the officer and the women thus blocking him from getting to them.

Bob told the officer we were taking him to the police station and he got violent with Bob and tried to break his leg which was blocking his way out of the van and access to the back of the van where the frightened women and child were.

Bob moved his leg after being struck several times in fear of it being broken. The officer then exited the van still yelling “you cannot interfere with my private life”

A Customs official showed up and told us we could not interfere with the officer.

I ran around to the van and jumped in and we went off to the police station. When we arrived the officer was already at the station.

I was told that the police showed up at the site of the crime 10 minutes after we left to go to the police station. They were pulling out of the parking lot as we were pulling in.

My wife and I got out of the van and went into the police station to file a report against the officer. We were treated in what I felt was a disrespectful way and often times were ignored by the officers on duty there at the time.

My wife found out what was needed to file a restraint order on the officer for Ms. X and she then went and got that started.

While she was doing that I walked a block to Dr. Dan’s and got my thumb examined. It was taped up and I received some meds for the pain. I then walked back to the police station. Finally I got an officer to take my statement, he seemed nice at the time.

Officer Martinez was laughing and joking with his fellow duty officers. My wife was taken some place else to have her statement taken. After I made my statement, the officer asked me if I was going to be pressing charges and I said yes. He then escorted me out of the office and told me to wait.

While I was waiting, my wife was upstairs with the Clerk of the Court to help Ms. X fill out the paper work she needed for her protection.

I was watching as the officer who took my report took it over to a desk and laid it down where I guessed the officer would record it into a book. The officer read the statement to himself and then handed it to Officer Martinez who read it and shook his head. Then he read the statement from my wife and the statement which Bob Hamilton gave. Then he picked up a pen and a statement sheet and started writing his statement down.

It was after he finished writing his statement down and he had handed it to the officer sitting at the desk with him that I was informed that my wife and I were to be arrested!!! And we could not leave the building and had to turn over all our personal belongings.

I protested and was given a copy of the charges against me and was told that I could leave my processions with someone else if I chose. I then made a few phone calls to friends to see what type of help I could get.. this was stupid.. I was trying to protect two women and a child from a over the edge police officer who had threatened to kill one of the women and I was going to jail!!!

I waited in the station and soon my wife came back from taking Ms. X to Dr. Dan’s office. She was told she was being arrested and charged for “Wounding”.

I inquired about getting a copy of my statement and was totally ignored. I finally insisted and was told that I had to get a Ms. Thomas to do it. She was pointed out to myself and my wife and she ignored us. She then took some children somewhere. When she returned we inquired again and she did not answer us but just keep on walking. Then one of the other officers said that she was on her lunch break. When she finally came back she said something about I had to get permission from the Chief to get a copy of our statements. She then abruptly turned around and stomped off.

While standing at the counter my lower back started to hurt very badly. I asked if an officer could escort me to the Dr’s office a block away so I could get it looked at and get something for the pain. I was ignored. I asked over the period of about an hour 10 times to go to the doctor before an officer walked in to the room and listened to me and then took me to get my back checked. I was examined and given a shot for the pain and inflammation to my lower disk. The Deputy Mayor showed up and wanted to know what was happening. I told him and he went to make some phone calls to see what he could do.

We then walked back to the police station and I asked for another medical form so I could file it with my statement along with the one that covered my thumb. I never was given another form that day. I was ignored.

All the while officer Martinez was joking around with his friend and walking in and out of the building at free will.

After about an hour I was taken back to the cell and locked up with the other prisoners. This was after I was assured by my lawyer I would not have to be put into the jail but would be allowed to remain in the building until bail was posted for me.

I remained in the holding cell for about 20 minutes and Officer Clark escorted another prisoner to the cell. After he left him and he was locking the cell, he told me that he would be talking to me in a while.

About another 20-30 minutes passed and he came and got me and escorted me to a back room where a plain clothes man was waiting with officer Martinez. He then set me down and talked for about 10 minutes trying to get me to drop the charges against Mark Martinez. He said that if I dropped my charges then officer Martinez would drop his charges against my wife and I.

I told them that I had done nothing wrong at which time he said “I don’t think there is any need for you to make any enemies here!” I took this as a threat.

He then said that I would be wise to just drop everything and they would handle it internally. I said that there was not much they could do to interfere with my life here. Even though I was thinking about applying for citizenship nothing in my life that I was doing or planning on doing would be affected by this.

I saw that they were getting irritated at me for not just dropping the charges and decided that it would be better to give them an option so I could get out of the room. I suggested that if officer Martinez went to counseling to teach him how to deal with his anger, I might decide to drop the charges.

That seemed to appease them. Another officer stuck his head into the room and I was told that I could go and wait out front.

Officer Martinez suggested I go and talk with Chief Arnold. I said I would like to do that and he escorted me to the chief’s office as if he were on duty escorting a prisoner. When I entered the office I informed officer Martinez that I wanted to talk to the Chief by myself and did not want him in here with me. Chief Arnold motion for officer Martinez to leave the room. He hesitantly closed the door and left.

I then set down on the sofa and started talking with Chief Arnold and he said that he had gotten quite a few phone calls and it was not looking good for his department. I said that it was not going to look any better when this all hit the news papers either. He agreed.

I told him I was sorry about this situation but as he knew I supported the police department 110% as long as they were doing their job in a professional manner. But when they stepped across the line I had no support for those officers. He agreed and thanked me for all my previous help and support.

I told him I realized he was working with many under-educated officers and it was hard to get good officers with the little pay that was available. I shared that I felt sorry about doing something that would cost him an employee but I thought it was better to have a few good men then a lot of not so good men.

I then asked Chief Arnold what the procedure was to get a copy of my statement. Sergeant Wade walked in with a stack of papers and the conversation shifted to the charges and the on going investigation. The investigation was heading to a stand off with me charged with damaging Martinez’s property while trying to protect my wife and Ms. X and my claim that he was attacked my wife.

I told them that when it went to court the judge would look at the circumstances surrounding the incident and make his decision on the facts. I then asked Sergeant Wade what he would have done if he was in my shoes and his wife was in a van and a man jumped through the window to try to attack her? Would he back off and let him continue? Or would he try to prevent any harm to his wife? I said I think the judge will decide I was in the right and not Mr. Martinez.

I then told Chief Arnold that I was not happy about being locked up and then taken to a back room and told I should drop the charges against Mark Martinez. I also told him I was not intimidated by being locked up in a cell after teaching at Hattyville Prison for 4 years. Spending a little time behind bars did not scare me as it was obviously intended to do. I told Chief Arnold how his officers had threatened me.

Chief Arnold was less then happy and asked me if I knew the officers name I said no but I could recognize them. Sergeant Wade then escorted me out to the counter where I pointed out Officer Clark badge # 150 I was told was his badge number. Sergeant Wade then called officer Clark into Chief Arnold’s office and asked Officer Clark if he did what I said he had done. He admitted doing it but said he did not threatened me. He said he told me that “I did not need to have an enemy of officer Martinez”. And told me “isn’t that what I said” I said that “I did not hear it that way and what I heard was that I did not need to make any enemies here”.

Chief Arnold was quite upset and had a few words with Officer Clark about his attitude and mouth. He told him that nothing like this was to happen under his watch again. No deal making of any kind was to be tolerated.

He then dismissed Officer Clark.

I then found out the process for the rest of the day as to how things worked and when we might be released.

When I left Chief Arnold’s office, the entire staff from Holy Cross Anglican School was in the waiting area. I was told by one of the officers that I could not talk to anyone until bail was set so I went back behind the counter and stood with my hurting back and waited. My wife was made to sit on an hard top of a first aid kit while officer Martinez set in the chair by the desk next to my wife. My wife was not happy as she has never even gotten a speeding ticket in her life. Needless to say she was traumatized at being treated like a common criminal while trying to protect a person from a villain.

My wife and I were then taken upstairs where we appeared before the Magistrate for formal charging. Court date was set for June 22nd.

After about an hour I got my bond issued and I went down stairs and presented it to a less then happy officer who then informed me I could leave. I went over and started talking with my teachers and supporters. My wife was still sitting on the first aid kit. About 45 minutes went by and they finally called her to go up to get her bond.

While she was there one of the officers yelled at everyone in the waiting area to leave the police station as they could not be in there.

Then someone called and asked if the principal had been arrested and that same officer yelled into the phone “No the principal was not arrested.. and yelled that they needed to get their facts correct.”

One of the teachers then pointed to the sigh on the wall that said it was a waiting room and the officer backed off and said that they could wait but had to be quiet!

My wife came down from up stairs and showed her receipt and was then released and we walked across the street and had drinks with our teachers and friend.

I went back this morning to see about getting a copy of my statement and was rudely told by the morning officers that I could not go to the Chief’s office and knock on his door to see if he was in unless I first checked with them. I have always been able before to go to the Chief’s office and knock and check if he was busy without first checking in at the front desk. Things had changed overnight.

The Chief was not in his office anyway. I then told the policemen that I wanted a copy of my file and was told Chief Arnold had to approve releasing it.

I left and went back later this morning and the Chief was in. I did stop at the front desk and ask first if I could talk to him. One of the now new crew walked around the counter and escorted me to the Chief’s office. This crew was much nicer then the ones who were in the office at 8:30 in the morning.

After talking with the Chief for a few minutes I requested another medical form as I was refused one yesterday. I then went over to Dr. Dan’s and got another anti-inflammatory shot. Dr. Gonzales filled out the form and I went back and gave yet another statement stating that the injury occurred due to the incident with officer Martinez.

I have been told by others that this type of treatment has been going on over here in this police station and I did not believe it. Now I know for a fact that what I had been hearing from the locals is true.

I hope that there will be some changes made in staff over here on the Island and that there will be some more public relations training required of the officers.

I do think that Chief Arnold is trying to do a good job with the resources he has. I have much respect for him. I also think that Sergeant Wade has been very good at doing his duties in a professional manner.

Vernon G. Wilson

Director Holy Cross Anglican School

May 22, 2009

Dear All, I just wanted to update you on the unfolding events in San Pedro. As you may know Vernon and I were arrested by the San Pedro police on Monday, May 18. We were helping one of the teachers at Holy Cross get away from her abusive (beatings, threatening to kill her, stalking, breaking into her home) ex-common law husband who just happens to be a policeman. In the process of rescuing the teacher her ex (thankfully off duty!) jumped through the taxi window flattening me on the floor. It seems I may have scratched him ("Wounding") in the process and Vernon tore his shirt ("Destruction of Property") getting him off me. After 9 hours being held at the Police Station (with Vernon being locked up in that horrible holding cell) we appeared in front of the Magistrate, were charged, finger printed, granted bail and released - what a day!!!

And the saga continues.....on Thursday May 21, Vernon appeared on the local radio talk show to share what all had happen with the citizens of San Pedro. The outpouring of support was incredible!

Later that morning, I accompanied the teacher to the Magistrates Court were a temporary restraining order was to be extended - a formality. The court is upstairs of the Police Department which made for an interesting situation in itself. Anyway we sat and waited and waited some more. Finally she and the ex appeared in front of the magistrate in a tiny room. The magistrate refused to grant the restraining order because the teacher and her ex no longer lived together. In addition he ordered the teacher to turn over her 3 year son to the ex from 9am until 4pm on Saturday with no supervision. This after the ex has repeatedly threatened to take the boy away and never let our teacher see him again.

Once again we were stunned at Belizean "justice" especially since the 2007 Violence against Women Act specifically grants protection to women like our teacher who are no longer cohabiting but are being abused. And, turning over the small child unsupervised was questionable at best.

I tried to talk with the magistrate but had to get back to the school. Dr. Kim Shackelford a visiting professor in Social Work from the University of Mississippi stayed with the teacher to await the Magistrate's order. She was told that the magistrate did not "appreciate" my questioning his order and that no retraining order could be granted to persons who had not lived together in 3 years (my teacher left her ex almost a year and a half ago). The time line was quickly changed to be 'hadn't lived together in one year' - UGH again!!

Later on Thursday Vernon and I were interview by one the national TV station and appeared on the evening news.

Friday morning, May 22 Dr. Shackelford and I appeared on the local radio talk show to discuss abuse against women and children. I had also invited the police officer who heads the Domestic Violence Unit but she refused to appear with us. Once again the outpouring of support and the sharing of similar personal stories was incredible!

Later that morning the teacher and I went to Belize City, met with our attorney and applied to the Belize Family Court for the protection order and stay of visitation. Both were quickly granted. Hearing is set for Wednesday. Upon returning to San Pedro, the teacher and I with two other witnesses presented the restraining order to the Officer in Charge at the Police Station.

This Wednesday there will also be a rally at the San Pedro Town Park with all local schools participating. We will parade under the banner, "Justice for All.".

Volunteer soccer player

2009-05-22T06:55:00.001-07:00

Sean - Gino and Brice came to visit Holy Cross in between their 2 dives today. The kids happened to be on lunch and some boys were playing soccer out front. Brice immediately got in on the action. While you might not think of playing soccer as volunteering - the kids all enjoy having people come and visit and spend time with them.

After touring the school and San Mateo Sean said he would like to help out for Christmas time and making sure all the kids get a present - how cool is that.

Brice on goal

Gino - Sean

hop scotch

Enjoying a lunch time soccer game

The one with the big smile is Britney Spears new bf ha ha

Be Kind Belize

2009-05-21T09:17:00.000-07:00

Hopefully, anyone who receives this email will already be well aware of Be Kind Belize - if not, feel free to email me for more information. This year has been very exciting as after a year of writing and developing my humane education programme for primary schools in San Pedro, I was able to get out and start working with schools. I had to be realistic as I am currently a one woman band and so I am working with two schools, Holy Cross Anglican School and Island Academy. Both of these schools have very different needs and present their own delights, rewards and challenges to me as a humane educator.

This summer, I will be taking 6 specially selected children, two from Island Academy and four from Holy Cross Anglican School, on a Kind Kids Adventure to the Belize mainland. What on earth is a Kind Kids Adventure I hear you asking?

Well, it is an overnight field trip, which will involve some of the following activities: Visiting Belize Bird Rescue, which rescues and rehabilitates wild Belizean birds so that they can be returned to the wild, meeting a real Belizean cowboy, who specialises in training horses with kindness so that they can learn a bit about horses and horse care, visiting a specialist reptile education centre, visiting a Belizean vet, who runs a practice in a village so that they can learn about how to become a vet in Belize, visiting an Green Iguana breeding and research facility and an animal shelter. There are a few other surprises being planned but I am still in the planning stages - and this is why you are receiving this email.

I should though give you some reasons for this field trip. Firstly, these children have been specially selected for being particularly kind children or for being children that would benefit most from this sort of experience. Through this field trip, they will experience and learn things about the people and animals of Belize that they may never have had an opportunity to. Because I am taking two groups from very different schools, they will get a chance to get to know eachother and learn a bit more about their community in San Pedro. They will also learn about vocational opportunities available to them working with animals and the environment in Belize. In addition to this - and this is an important thing - they will, through the support of the community, learn a bit about what it means to give back.

I have been involved in non profit work for my entire career and despite moving to Belize to start a new life, I found myself drawn back to what I love best, working with kids and animals. Be Kind Belize is my pet project here and now I need a little bit of help to make this possible. I will stress at this point that I really do not want any actual money donations. What I am looking for is practical assistance and these are the things that I need help with. The group going to Belize will consist of 6 children and 2-3 adults (we may need to have a parent or teacher from each school)

1. Transportation for the group to Belize and back.
2. We have generously been offered a van and driver but we would appreciate assistance with petrol costs while in Belize.
3. Overnight accomodation somewhere near the Belmopan area: dormitories, bunks, or tents would be gratefully accepted as we are not trying to be fussy or spoiled here. I haven't set dates for the trip although we are hoping to do it in August/September, which is our lowest season so that it might be easier to obtain accomodation. I am flexible.
4. Four meals: lunch and dinner on the first day and breakfast and lunch on the second day.
5. Any entry fees that may be necessary to pay although we are hoping that most of the facilities we visit will give us complimentary entry.
6. If you are feeling particularly generous - t- shirts for the group and the event.

That is it. It isn't a complicated event and it shouldn't be expensive. You may be asking two questions: Why don't you want money? and, How can I give practical help?

I don't want money because I spent most of my life working in the non profit sector. Everything was organised and run by committee, which as many of you will be aware of, can be frusrtating and often not fruitful. When my first non profit (established in 1990 and run entirely on practical donations and volunteer assistance) became to big for me to handle, I gratefully handed it over to a big animal welfare charity, run by a committee and they have done a good job with it ever since. I swore I would never work by committee again and I am trying hard to stick to that. This also means that I don't want to actively fundraise, keep accounts or justify money, so I would prefer other people volunteer their time to turn any assistance they want to give into a practical donation.

How can I give practical help? Well you could send this email on to others you know who can give us some help. You could get in touch and let me know that you want to help and once I know, I could inform you where we will need to stop and eat or where we are staying so that you can work with the businesses directly. You could just invite us over to your place and feed us and put us up over night. You could make us up a packed lunch. You could call up the water taxi company and say 'give these kids a ride to Belize and back'. These are just a few suggestions, but I am open to any others.

On one more note, I am planning to provide Be Kind Belize to other schools next year, but need volunteer educators to do that. If you can give a couple of hours a week and understand how important it is for children to learn how to be kind to themselves, to eachother and to other living creatures, please let me know.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this email and even if you can't help, I still thank you, because you wouldn't be receiving this if I didn't think you were a kind person.

Please contact Colette at bekindbelize@gmail[dot]com if you would like to help in any way.

Affordable Belize Real Estate Raffle

2009-05-11T11:48:00.000-07:00

Yes, only $10 Belize Dollars!!!

Can make you the lucky and proud owner/winner of this 60ft. of main road front by 80ft. deep, commercial and/or residential lot, that is located about 2 miles south of San Pedro Town center. In the New Marina Area.

All government and property tax, plus ALL Title Transfer fees, associated costs and expenses will be pay in full from the proceeds of this fundraiser. And 50% of the balance will be donate to the Holy Cross Anglican School.

Please be noted that if the Lucky winner is from outside of Ambergris Caye, any and all extra expenses will be the responsibility of the winner, including traveling expenses to visit the lot.

We assume that if you are reading this is because you are somehow interested on Belize real estate and want to have the opportunity to become a landowner for only $10 Belize dollars, or at least feel proud of giving back to the community by helping with the development of the Holy Cross Anglican School. Either way, winning the lucky ticket or not, You are a Winner!!! Our Congratulations and Thanks to You!!!

Authorized Tickets Distributors:

-Alex Canalez, DFC Area (right across the San Pedro Boatyard), Ambergris Caye.
-Betsy Store, DFC Area, Ambergris Caye.
-Marina Store, San Telmo Area, Ambergris Caye.
-La Divina Providencia, Escalante Area, Ambergris Caye.

Tickets are also available both online via school website and at Holy Cross Holy Cross School Office.

Please be noted: Unless announced in this and/or the school website(s), no one else is authorized
to sell tickets for this raffle.

The raffle drawing date will be not later than December, 2009, or as soon as all tickets be sold (10,000). While we are very optimistic that the tickets will not last more than 60 days, we are extending the date to make sure that this is a win-win-win situation for all parties involved.

UPDATE: April 8, 2009. - More Great News! A Friend of the School acquired 512 tickets and entrusted us to give them away in the community, specifically to: single parents, tenants and other needy families at our discretion. Strictly 1 free ticket per person, double entry will automatically disqualify the tickets holder.

We are presently seeking assistance from community activists to distribute these tickets to the most needy.

The Friend of the School said and we quote: I cannot give each one a lot, but at least I give them a fair chance to win one, and most important, I plant a hopeful seed in their minds.

Number of tickets Available: 9,305 as of April 8, pm.

Thanks to Affordable Belize Real Estate for hosting this raffle and providing information and pictures.

Wish List - May 2009

2009-05-01T17:17:00.000-07:00

Wish List - Updated May 2, 2009

Copy paper - white and colors
Heat activated laminating sheets - letter size
Back packs
Tennis shoes - Adult sizes 1 through 8
Rolls of clear contact paper
Rolls of clear, wide packing tape
Permanent markers - wide (chisel) tip - all colors
Dry erase board markers
Stickers
Small prizes for rewards
Arts and craft projects
Bulletin board materials and boarders
Exercise books
Plastic cups - 6 ounces
Plastic plates
Chalk board erasers - 20
Chalk - dustless - white and colors

Larger Items :
Salary for school counselor - estimate $15,000US per year
Salary for school librarian - estimate $15,000US per year
Wheelbarrows - 4
New compact pick up truck, 4 wheel drive
New Polaris 6 wheel drive dump truck bed golf cart
40kw generator with auto switch
Insulation for all the classroom ceilings
Ceiling material for all the buildings
Complete wood working cabinet shop tools
UV water purification system for the school
RO water system for the school
Good quality office chairs for the teachers, computer lab and office.
Security system for all the buildings and grounds
Intercom system for school
Cement mixer

Tool Items:
See January 2009 wish list.

April update - Miss Francis

2009-05-01T10:42:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends of Holy Cross Anglican School, We are so thankful for your continuing support and prayers especially at this time of uncertainty with the Swine Flu outbreak. Belize shares a border with Mexico so many of our parents are anxious and worried. Please surround our children, their families, our staff and community with your prayers.

*Dr. Kim Shackleford, professor of Social Work from the University of Mississippi, temporarily joined the staff at Holy Cross after Christmas break. Dr. Kim is using her sabbatical to work with some of our most troubled children, train our teachers in classroom management/behavior modification techniques and set up the School Counseling Center. In addition, five of her friends who are also social workers have spent varying amounts of time volunteering at Holy Cross. Staff and students are already dreading the day Dr. Kim leaves at the end of May. She has made such a difference at the School and in the lives of our children. Holy Cross definitely needs a full time counselor but Government doesn’t provide for that position. We need the funding to hire a counselor.

*Our long awaited and much anticipated School Library is OPEN and being used every day. Many thanks to each of you who brought books down in your suitcases or sent them to the School. The pictures attached show the wonderful flowering of your efforts. And speaking of efforts, without the help of local volunteers Rick Davidson and Carol Busby the Library would still be an empty room filled with boxes of books. Rick and Carol have labored for thousands of hours organizing the Library, cataloging all the books and teaching staff and children how to use this incredible resource. Many thanks.

*The Holy Cross state-of-the-art Computer Center continue to be busier and busier. Classes are in the lab all day long and teachers flock to the computers for research at the end of the day. Our recent graduates, now enrolled in high school, are frequent visitors. Evening classes open to the community are in the works. Long distance learning in partnership with Education Departments at the University of Belize, Christopher Newport University, Vancouver University, Gainesville State College and others is closer to becoming a reality. And even the local Police Department used the lab for intensive training! What a blessing to so many folks.

*Wonderful volunteer teams have been hard at work completing the library, providing training for teachers, building the new woodworking shop, painting, putting up railings, repairing school furniture, completing storm shutters, insulating some of the classrooms and (most importantly) spending time with our children. Many, many thanks to the following groups who have come to Holy Cross since January 1, 2009:

Christopher Newport University, Newport News, VA
St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Durham, NC
St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, Pacific Palisades
Duke Chapel, Duke University, Durham, NC
Southcrest Baptist Church, Lubbock, TX
St. Ann’s Episcopal Church, Sunfish Lake, MN
Ambassadors for Children, headquartered in Indiana
St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, Raleigh, NC

*All students received full medical exams in February, including vision and hearing testing, through the efforts of medical personnel from the St. Luke’s team, Nurse Heather (from Yellowknife, Canada) and Counselor, Dr. Kim. In addition, the visiting pediatrician saw all babies in the San Mateo community. Thirty-six children have been referred for glasses (cost is $25US per child - please help!) and quite a few were referred to the local Government Clinic – one with a broken arm and one with such a terrible kidney infection that he was passing blood in his urine! All have recovered nicely.

*The folks from St. Michael’s offered an outstanding Vacation Bible School during Holy Week. School was closed but the happy sounds of children continued to be heard. We were thrilled that so many of our children were "off the streets", well cared for and engaged in learning!

*There are over 15 students already signed up to receive the Sacrament of Baptism, which will be offered on Sunday, May 24. The monthly Family Services have been averaging an attendance of over 400 students and parents. Holy Cross continues to pray for a full time priest and School Chaplain. Do you know any clergy looking forward to a sabbatical??????

*The annual Easter Fair raised a whopping $2,000 and a good time was had by all – smile!

*Dr. Kim has started an after school drumming group as a reward for daily good behavior. What a thrill to see those previously disruptive children cooperating and having such a good time!

*Numerous individuals from the local community and abroad continue to visit and volunteer their time and talents here at Holy Cross. Thanks be to God, there are too many to name but you know who you are! Many, many thanks to each of you and a special hug to the nurse who stopped by for a tour and ended up checking scrapes and bruises! Many thanks to Dr. Lerida and Dr. Dan who often treat our seriously ill students at no charge, Cullen and Kath, Laurie (alias Taco Girl), Colette, Rick and Cindy, Sally, the Philips sisters, Heather and Rick, Lynette, Judy, Joyce and Tom and countless others.

*The Feeding Program is going strong, providing nutritious (and free!) breakfast, snack, lunch and purified water every day. The Dental Clinic, under the guidance of Dr. Mark Johnson and his hygienist wife, Joan, continues to provide free dental care and treatment for students and staff at Holy Cross. Free shoes, uniforms, school supplies and book bags are still available for those in need!

Holy Cross Anglican School with five hundred and twelve students, many of whom are poor and disadvantaged, is incredibly blessed by the grace of God and the kindness of folks like you. This School is truly a miracle in action made possible by your generosity and support. We pray every day that these miracles will continue to abound and that young lives will be blessed and transformed.

In this period of economic uncertainty and the threat of global pandemic, it’s all too easy to forget just how fortunate we really are. Each day as I come to school and walk around the community of San Mateo, I pray that running water, electricity and proper sanitation will one day be available in every home. The children of San Mateo don’t have bank accounts, stocks or IRA’s to fret about. Their concerns are much more pressing. They worry about food, drinking water, shoes and clean school uniforms. They cry with toothaches, infected ears, lice and scabies. They need Christ-centered guidance, a good education, ongoing support, encouragement and plenty of hugs!

Your contribution will help provide the love, education and care these children so need. Please continue to uphold us in your prayers, visit us when you can and support us with your generous donations.

Checks made payable to “Holy Cross Anglican School” can be sent to:

Holy Cross Anglican School
San Pedro Town

Ambergris Caye, Belize

Don’t forget to visit our website for more updates on Holy Cross Anglican School:

I understand the School is even on few FaceBook groups!!!

Holy Cross Journey of Hope

Holy Cross Anglican School

Holy Cross Mission Trips

Many thanks and blessings! Francis

Mrs. Francis Wilson
Local Manager

Holy Cross Anglican School
San Pedro, Belize

2009-04-30T08:09:00.000-07:00

Now, onto happier news from Holy Cross…..

*Dr. Kim Shackleford, professor of Social Work from the University of Mississippi, temporarily joined the staff at Holy Cross after Christmas break. Dr. Kim is using her sabbatical to work with some of our most troubled children, train our teachers in classroom management/behavior modification techniques and set up the School Counseling Center. In addition, five of her friends who are also social workers have spent varying amounts of time volunteering at Holy Cross. Staff and students are already dreading the day Dr. Kim leaves at the end of May. She has made such a difference at the School and in the lives of our children. Holy Cross definitely needs a full time counselor but Government doesn’t provide for that position. We need the funding to hire a counselor.

*Our long awaited and much anticipated School Library is OPEN and being used every day. Many thanks to each of you who brought books down in your suitcases or sent them to the School. The pictures attached show the wonderful flowering of your efforts. And speaking of efforts, without the help of local volunteers Rick Davidson and Carol Busby the Library would still be an empty room filled with boxes of books. Rick and Carol have labored for thousands of hours organizing the Library, cataloging all the books and teaching staff and children how to use this incredible resource. Many thanks.

*The Holy Cross state-of-the-art Computer Center continue to be busier and busier. Classes are in the lab all day long and teachers flock to the computers for research at the end of the day. Our recent graduates, now enrolled in high school, are frequent visitors. Evening classes open to the community are in the works. Long distance learning in partnership with Education Departments at the University of Belize, Christopher Newport University, Vancouver University, Gainesville State College and others is closer to becoming a reality. And even the local Police Department used the lab for intensive training! What a blessing to so many folks.

*Wonderful volunteer teams have been hard at work completing the library, providing training for teachers, building the new woodworking shop, painting, putting up railings, repairing school furniture, completing storm shutters, insulating some of the classrooms and (most importantly) spending time with our children. Many, many thanks to the following groups who have come to Holy Cross since January 1, 2009:

Christopher Newport University, Newport News, VA

St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Durham, NC

St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, Pacific Palisades,

Duke Chapel, Duke University, Durham, NC

Southcrest Baptist Church, Lubbock, TX

St. Ann’s Episcopal Church, Sunfish Lake, MN

Ambassadors for Children, headquartered in Indiana

St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, Raleigh, NC

*All students received full medical exams in February, including vision and hearing testing, through the efforts of medical personnel from the St. Luke’s team, Nurse Heather (from Yellowknife, Canada) and Counselor, Dr. Kim. In addition, the visiting pediatrician saw all babies in the San Mateo community. Thirty-six children have been referred for glasses (cost is $25US per child - please help!) and quite a few were referred to the local Government Clinic – one with a broken arm and one with such a terrible kidney infection that he was passing blood in his urine! All have recovered nicely.

*The folks from St. Michael’s offered an outstanding Vacation Bible School during Holy Week. School was closed but the happy sounds of children continued to be heard. We were thrilled that so many of our children were "off the streets", well cared for and engaged in learning!

*There are over 15 students already signed up to receive the Sacrament of Baptism, which will be offered on Sunday, May 24. The monthly Family Services have been averaging an attendance of over 400 students and parents. Holy Cross continues to pray for a full time priest and School Chaplain. Do you know any clergy looking forward to a sabbatical??????

*The annual Easter Fair raised a whopping $2,000 and a good time was had by all – smile!

*Dr. Kim has started an after school drumming group as a reward for daily good behavior. What a thrill to see those previously disruptive children cooperating and having such a good time!

*Numerous individuals from the local community and abroad continue to visit and volunteer their time and talents here at Holy Cross. Thanks be to God, there are too many to name but you know who you are! Many, many thanks to each of you and a special hug to the nurse who stopped by for a tour and ended up checking scrapes and bruises! Many thanks to Dr. Lerida and Dr. Dan who often treat our seriously ill students at no charge, Cullen and Kath, Laurie (alias Taco Girl), Colette, Rick and Cindy, Sally, the Philips sisters, Heather and Rick, Lynette, Judy, Joyce and Tom and countless others.

*The Feeding Program is going strong, providing nutritious (and free!) breakfast, snack, lunch and purified water every day. The Dental Clinic, under the guidance of Dr. Mark Johnson and his hygienist wife, Joan, continues to provide free dental care and treatment for students and staff at Holy Cross. Free shoes, uniforms, school supplies and book bags are still available for those in need!

Holy Cross Anglican School with five hundred and twelve students, many of whom are poor and disadvantaged, is incredibly blessed by the grace of God and the kindness of folks like you. This School is truly a miracle in action made possible by your generosity and support. We pray every day that these miracles will continue to abound and that young lives will be blessed and transformed.

In this period of economic uncertainty and the threat of global pandemic, it’s all too easy to forget just how fortunate we really are. Each day as I come to school and walk around the community of San Mateo, I pray that running water, electricity and proper sanitation will one day be available in every home. The children of San Mateo don’t have bank accounts, stocks or IRA’s to fret about. Their concerns are much more pressing. They worry about food, drinking water, shoes and clean school uniforms. They cry with toothaches, infected ears, lice and scabies. They need Christ-centered guidance, a good education, ongoing support, encouragement and plenty of hugs!

Your contribution will help provide the love, education and care these children so need. Please continue to uphold us in your prayers, visit us when you can and support us with your generous donations.

Checks made payable to “Holy Cross Anglican School” can be sent to:

Holy Cross Anglican School

San Pedro Town

Ambergris Caye, Belize

Don’t forget to visit our website for updates on Holy Cross Anglican School:

www.holycrossbelize.org

Many thanks and blessings! Francis

Volunteering

2009-04-11T09:27:00.000-07:00

Dear Francis and Vernon;

Things are coming along beautifully. We have managed to hold a Vitamin Drive, and will have a shipment of vitamins to send down at the end of the month, and a pharmacy that is willing to donate as well! We also have some school supplies coming. The Holy Cross facebook page has now grown to nearly 200 supporters in less than 3 weeks!

In addition to fundraising and collecting donations, Heather and I have found that there may be a market to organize volunteer tours. We have someone that is willing to approach the Universities in Toronto and propose volunteer missions to the school. We are in the process of exploring the feasibility of starting a volunteer tour company from Canada, specifically geared to University and College Students.

Would you be willing to participate in this. Specifically we would need to know, what area of study you would like to have volunteers from ie. Education, Social Work, Environment, Engineering, Dental, Medical or all of the above.

I understand that you require that the group also bring 2500.00 for cost of supplies, and that would be incorporated into the agreement. I have a meeting with the Business Centre, to see how we can get this up and running, and would love it if we could assist Holy Cross at the same time.

Joanne and Heather

Good Friday fun

2009-04-11T06:44:00.000-07:00

St Michael's mission team is back at HC School to help out and do vacation bible camp. For many of the members this will be their 3rd time back. They do a fabulous job with the kids and have been a big help in the construction process over the course of their visit's.

While at the school I had the chance to reconnect with John and talk to Nanci and Susan Jo. Nanci said she would send some more pictures of the mission group and I invited them to let all of their team know that I would love to share their volunteer experiences so hopefully there will be more to come.

From the pics below you can see how happy both the kids and parents are making crafts for Good Friday. Today's project was making shakers from plastic beads and paper plates. At the end of the day all kids got a certificate for attending Vacation Bible Camp

Portrait of a Volunteer

2009-04-02T09:31:00.000-07:00

I spent 15 years working for public child welfare in Mississippi as an investigator of child abuse and neglect, foster care worker, child welfare supervisor and the Director of Training for the state. I continue to work with the public child welfae agencies and private child welfare

agencies throughout the United States and in Canada in the area of child welfare supervision, secondary traumatic stress, child death debriefings and counseling for the social workers involved in child death cases. I also write training curriculum for public child welfare agencies. I

worked a few years in an adult in-patient psychiatric unit and my early years involved working in residential treatment for children. I have been teaching social work for 10 years

at the University of Mississippi in Oxford, Mississippi. I am an Associate Professor and I am currently on sabbatical for one semester.

I chose to volunteer at Holy Cross as the children from this area of the island are living in difficult conditions. I am amazed at how hard the children's lives are and yet they are still happy much of the time. The resilence of these children is amazing and they want to learn. I was drawn to the school as when I vacationed here, I got to know the children - especially the children who sell jewelry on their own on the beach. I was concerned about their vulnerability and how they were not in school many days. About three years ago I came to the island on vacation and found that a new school was starting in the San Mateo area. I just wanted to do what I can to help the children and families of this area.After spending time at the school, I realize that there are children and families throughout the island that need social services. The development of resources is one piece of the work that social workers do - so as I learn about the needs from the children and families and hear from them - my next task is to find out what Belize has in the way of social services that can help and what help I could bring.

Many times, the communities can develop resources to meet their own needs. I have found that the strengths of the communities and the people on the island are great. I love the people who live here and I love this country. The children have my heart.

Kim

Computer Lab Wish list

2009-02-25T18:57:00.000-08:00

HCAS Computer Lab Wish list

Below is the item and the quantity of the particular items needed for the HCAS Computer Lab. They are listed in prioritized order. Items with (Item no.) and price can be found on www.cyberguys.com .

Internet upgrade to 1 Megabyte

Blank CDʼs (item No. 154 0663) $ 25. 49

Copy Paper lots of it.......

Qty 1. 3 in 1 presentation mouse w/laser pointer (item No. 133 0272) $58.99

Qty 1. 1 Stereo PC Speaker 2.1 (Item No. 190 0501) $ 45.95

Qty 40. Webcams (item No. 204 0741) $29.99 (10+ $28.99)

Blank DVDʼs (item No. 154 0660) $ 34.99

Qty 4. Flash DriveOCZ, Flash drives Water & Shock Resistant (item No. 245 0112) $ 22.99 each

Qty 35. Economy Mouse Pads (Item No. 107 0130) $.67 each

Qty 3. Fatigue Fighter mousepads (item no. 107 0110) $ 4.18 each

Qty 1. Analog Audio/Video Digitizer (Item no. 245 0500) $67.95

Qty 2. Microfiber Cloths Clean & Protect Fine Surfaces 5pk. (Item No. 124 0341) $9.95

Qty 1. Computer Tool Kit 68 pce. (Item no. 115 0160) $ 57.95

Qty 3. Purosol Molecular Plasma Screen Cleaner (Item No. 114 0015) $7.95

Qty 1. Wiha security bit collection set (Item No. 115 7610) $ 54.95

Qty 2. Macintosh laptops

Qty 1. SkipDR Automax Disc Repair System (item No. 114 0363) $ 39.99

Qty 2. Smartronix LinkCheck Ethernet Tester (Item No. 1800488) $ 39.99

Qty 2. NIte Ize LED Flashlight (Item No. 142 0393) $9.99

Qty 1. 7 Port USB hub (Item No. 104 1414) $ 21.99

Qty 2. Creative Labs Inspire T6100 Speaker System ( Item No.190 0276) $74.99

Qty 2. Dino-lite USB Microscope Magnifies up to 200x! (item No. 1420828)$189.00

Qty 1. Lightweight Super Fast Vac 500 (item No. 1140550) $ 73.89

Qty 3. IDE Drive to SATA Adapter with Cables ( item No. 2020258) $21.95

Qty 2. SATA Dual Layer DVD Writer with light Scribe (item No. 2450513) $ 40.99

Qty 2. Western Digital IDE 500 Gig Hard Drive(item No.2450156) $91.95

Qty 2. Seagate SATA 500Gig Hard Drive (item No.1630278) $99.95

Qty 2. SATA/IDE to USB Adapter (item No.1310859) $38.99

Qty 2. Vantec USB 2.0 to SATA/IDE (item No. 1310863) $23.49

Qty 2. Professional Hardware Assortment Pack (item No. 1150250) $7.95

Qty 2. Test-Um Net- Rite TP250 (item No. 1153183) $43.45

Qty 2 Heavy-Duty Canvas Tool Bag (item No. 1556465) $13.49

Qty 10.LED Light Bulb (item No.2502127) $28.49

Qty 5. Dummy Security Camera( item No.2040745/2040743) $30.49/9.49

Qty 2. Bluetooth Stereo Head set (item No.1900423) $47.95

Qty 2. Universal notebook Charger(item No. 1212579) $63.49

Qty 41. Stereo Headset( item No. 1900245) $6.79

Qty 2. T.V digitizer(item No. 1040639)$82.99

If you plan to make a donation of any of these items please let the school know via the email address listed in this profile so that people to not buy more than the needed amount.

Valentines Fair

2009-02-24T08:49:00.000-08:00

The Valentines Fair was a loads of fun. The kids had a ball and enjoyed a great DJ, playing games, winning prizes and being able to purchase and enjoy delicious baked goods made by parents within the community to help raise money for the school.

A message from Mario - On behalf of Vicky & myself I would like to thank the community for their support in the Valentine's Hungry Monkey Subs Holy Cross fundraiser. We sold a total of 146 12" subs in 4 days and raised 150$ for the school.

Pictures by Miss Linda aka wonderwoman - to see more pics of Valentines you can check out tacogirl.

Hungry Monkey Subs

2009-02-12T06:00:00.000-08:00

Hungry Monkey Subs... For Valentines Hungry monkey Sub Shop would like to with their ongoing support to Holy Cross School. From Feb 11 to 14 For every 12"(foot-long) sub sold we will give our customers a poem for their loved ones written by a poet Freddy Nunez, and we will also donate $1.00 for each sub sold to the Holy Cross school. We ask from our loyal clients and the rest of the community to reach out and help us make this day of love and the time leading up to it enjoyable for everyone.

Reminder from Wonderwoman... Friday the 13th is Holy Cross Valentine's day fair 9 am till 1 pm please feel free to drop by and join the fun. It's a great opportunity to enjoy the island kids.

Donations from Canada

2009-02-11T05:58:00.000-08:00

Thanks goes out to Martina Hoeffer, Pansy Ellison, Mario Barone of Dream Makers and Joanne Obrien for the recent donation collected in Canada and brought down by Joanne when she came to visit and voluneer at Holy Cross School.

Ongoing support to Holy Cross

2009-02-10T09:36:00.000-08:00

For Valentines Hungry monkey Sub Shop would like to with their ongoing support to Holy Cross School. From Feb 11 to 14 For every 12"(foot-long) sub sold we will give our customers a poem for their loved ones written by a poet Freddy Nunez, and we will also donate $1.00 for each sub sold to the Holy Cross school. We ask from our loyal clients and the rest of the community to reach out and help us make this day of love and the time leading up to it enjoyable for everyone.

Starting 2009 with clean teeth

2009-01-24T09:34:00.000-08:00

At Holy Cross Anglican School thy clearly recognize a link between education and good dental hygiene. Let's face it if your moth is not in a good state that can clearly affect your mood and your ability to concentrate - I am sure anyone who has ever had tooth trouble would agree.

Once again Holy Cross school kids were thankful for the visiting Dentists Jan. 19th to the 23rd to help them start the new year with good dental health.

Holy Cross Anglican School

Dr. Paul Roggow, his wife Linda, dental assistant daughter Brielle with patient. The Roggow family are from Jackson, Minnesota. Dr. Paul studied at the school of Dentistry with Dr. Mark Johnson, the founder of the Smile Clinic at Holy Cross Anglican School and the Dental Office located at the Poly Clinic.

Students waiting for their examination with Linda Roggow

Joan Johnson-Hygienist, assisted by Bonnie Musbach-volunteer, treating a student

Dr. Cima from the Poly clinic, Linda Roggow with patient during a fluoride treatment

Dr. Cima, Joan Johnson and Sharon Carlson-volunteer

Linda Roggow applying a fluoride treatment

Sharon Carlson-volunteer

Brielle Roggow and happy patients

Sharon Carlson-volunteer with thankful students

Rum and Raffle benefit concert

2009-01-24T08:17:00.000-08:00

Last nights benefit concert with Jill Holly was a big success. Many people came out to enjoy the music and support Holy Cross School. Vernon's exotic rum was a big hit. Big thanks goes out to Wet Willy's for hosting the event - Jill Holly for singing and everyone who came to help a worthy cause.

For more please visit tacogirlblog.

Forrest lends a helping hand

Great art work

Announcing exotic rum shots for sale

Big turn out

A very personable Jill Holly entertaining the crowd

Fun bunch at this table

Hi Miss Linda

Jill Holly

T-shirts Calendars and cookbooks also for sale - wine door prize

Vernon and Paul

Vernon and Jill

Miss Linda

Thanks to Wet Willy's for hosting the event - was the ideal spot

Tommy and Marilyn enjoying a shot for a good cause

Jill entertaining the crowd

Miss Linda

Great turn out

Everyone was having fun

Vernon

Singer songwriter Jill Holly

Thanks to everyone who came out and support the school

Lively crowd

Joan has a great singing voice

Rum and Raffle benefit concert

2009-01-23T09:39:00.000-08:00

Rum and Raffle benefit concert by Folk/Rock singer Jill Holly

Friday January 23 (tonight)

Wet Willy's 6pm onward

$5 entrance includes a free raffle ticket

There will be drink specials, exotic rum, raffles and music

All proceeds will go to Holy Cross School

http://www.jillholly.com